HomeMy WebLinkAbout2001-09-10 Ordinance 4714follows:
ORDINANCE NO. 4714
ORDINANCE OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALO ALTO
APPROVING AND ADOPTING A PLAN FOR IMPROVEMENTS TO
THE ARASTRADERO PRESERVE
The Council of the City of Palo Alto does ORDAIN as
SECTION 1. Findings and Declarations.
finds and declares as follows:
The City Council
(a) Article VIII of the Charter of the City of Palo Alto
and Section 22.08.005 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code require that,
before any substant 1 building, construction, reconstruction or
development is commenced or approved, upon or with respect-to any
land held 9Y the City r park purposes, the Council shall rst
cause to be prepared and by ordinance approve and adopt a plan
therefore;
(b) The City intends to construct certain capital
improvements at the Arastradero Preserve, including, without
limitation, the development of a visitor information center that
will incorporate office and meeting room space, storage areas,
publ restrooms, bicycle lockers, and associated site improvements
("Plan") ;
(c) The Palo Alto Utilities Department is required to
maintain an access road ["Arastradero Ut its Access Road"]
through both Foothills Park and Arastradero Preserve in the y
1960's fo~ the purposes of constructing and maintaining utilities
1 s, reservoirs and pump stations;
(d) The Arastradero Utilities Access Road eroded during
the 1998 El Nino storm season, creating drainage problems and road
base instability and despite emergency road repairs, portions of
the road still need repa
(e) The Palo Alto Utilities Department has determined that
"Soil Cement" should be used as the stabilizing road base, an
environmentally safe polymer emulsion that produces highly
effective control of dust and surface erosion;
(f) The Council approved the Arastrade~o Preserve
Management Plan ("Plan") on May 14, 2001 which incorporated
Capital Improvement Program Project 0118, "All Weather. Arastradero
Road Paving" in which environmental reviews of "Soil Cement" were
included and considered for the stabilization of the utility access
trail tread (road sur ) that runs along Arastradero Creek
between the border of Footh Is Park and Arastradero Lake, and
between Gate B on Arastradero Road and Arastradero Lake;
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1
(g) The site and design review of the Plan has been
conducted and the Plan has been recommended for approval by
City boards and commissions having jurisdiction over such matters,
because conforms to the provisions of Chapter 18.82 of the Palo
Alto Municipal Code and the Palo Alto Comprehensive Plan; and
(h) The Council des to approve the Plan and to adopt
it as part of the plan for the construction of
improvements at the Arastradero Preserve.
SECTION 2. The Plan, a copy of which attached hereto
and incorporated by this reference is hereby approved and adopted.
SECTION 3. The City Council hereby finds that it can be
seen with certainty that there is no potential this action to
have a signi cant adverse effect on the environment.
SECTION 4. This ordinance shall become effective upon the
commencement of the thirty-first day after the day of its adoption.
INTRODUCED: August 6, 2001
PASSED: September 10, 2001
AYES: BURCH, EAKINS, LYTLE, OJAKIAN, WHEELER
NOES:
ABSENT: BEECHAM, FAZZINO, KLEINBERG, MOSSAR
ABSTENTIONS:
~HIS DOCUM T ISC"€RTIF'I~DroBe'AN
ORD!!II, ;1;.,,:;-: DLlL'l PASSED BV THE COUNCIL
or ;1-:::' ".: V or-PALO ALTO AND
fH;;:' .. '· '.'tJ~ POS'feD I~~UNCIL
. ::;fJf..X;ERSON '~ (WITHIN 15
DAYS. or ITS PASSAGE)
"I certify {or declare) under penaltY'
.' ;'jHry that the foregOing,is true
I andc~f~~~~
at "s.Place
APPROVED:
2
Planning and
Environment
Arastradero Preserve
Trails Managem.ent Plan
Prepared for City of Palo Alto
by:
<..A"mphion Environmental, Inc.
&
Thomas Reid Associates
March 2001
4
/.;3;)/-
I.
1.
2.
3~
4.
Final
Arastradero Preserve
Trails Management Program
Table of. Contents
Executive Summary
1.1 Overview and Purpose
1.2 Existing Trail System
1.3 Proposed Trail Management System
Introduction
1.1 Trail Handbook Objectives
History &. Use
2.1 Overview
2.2 Management and Operations Policy
2.3 Existing Internal Trail System
2.4 Regional Connections
2.5 Ancillary Trail Facilities-Existing & Proposed
Environmental Setting
3.1 Biotic and Cultural Resources
3.2 Land Uses
3.3 Hazardous Fire Area (HFA)
3.4 Utilities
General Objectives, Strategies
&. Recommended Actions
4.1 Resource Management
4.2 Trail Use
4.3 Trail Design & Management
4.4 Good Neighbors -Respecting Private Property
Privacy & Security Objectives
4.5 Managing to Meet Multiple Department Objectives -
Coordinating with the Fire Department
4.6 Managing to Meet Multiple Department Objectives -
Coordinating with the Utility Department
Arastradero Trails Management Program
Table of Contents
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March 2001
'I'
5. Trail Maintenance Classification System
5.1 Use and Maintenance Evaluation Criteria
5.2 Primary Trail Uses Guiding Trail Maintenance Standards
& Work Priorities
5.3 Environmental Sensitivity -Resource Considerations
Guiding Trail Maintenance Standards & Work Priorities
5.4 Tiered Approach Trail Management
6. The Trail Maintenance Program
6.1 Trail Maintenance Defined
6.2 The Trail Maintenance System
6.3 Assessment of Trail Routes
6.4 Trail Implementation Programs by Tiered Classification
6.5 Trails to Be Abandoned & Closed for Restoration
7. Trail Maintenance Techniques and Tools
7.1 Overview
7.2 Improving Access & Accessibility
7.3 Trail Tread Construction Techniques
7.4 Grading and Drainage
7.5 Vegetation Management
7.6 Trail Signing & Mappin,g
8. Staffing &. Funding
8.1 Staffing
8.2 Program Development
8.3 Funding
9. Sources
9.1 Acknowledgements
9.2 Bibliography
10. Appendices
A. Sample Survey Questionnaire with Compiled Results
B. Compiled Results from Public Workshop #1
Final
Arastradero Trails Management Program
Table of Contents
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March 2001
Maps
Map 1 Location
Arastradero Preserve
Trails Management Program
Maps &. Figures
Map 2 Existing Trail System
Map 3 Habitat Types
Map 4 Fire Protection & Emergency & Maintenance Access
Map 5 Environmental Sensitivity "High Constraint" ,
Map 6 Environmental Sensitivity Moderate Constraint"
Map 7 Environmental Sensitivity "Low Constraint"
Map 8 Soil/Slope Sensitivity
Map 9 Proposed Trail System .
Map 10 Implementation Program -High Maintenance Trails
and Moderate Maintenance Tnrlls
Map 11 Implementation Program -Trail Routes that are to be
Closed or Rerouted to Protect Resources
Figures
Figure 1 Hardened Trail Tread
Figure 2 Trail Gates & Entry Treatments
Figure 3 Standard 'Hammerhead' Turn-Around
Figure 4 Trail Structure Terminology
Figure 5 Trail Tread & Side Slopes -Typical Cross Sections
Figure 6 Switchbacks: Trail Stability on Excessive Slopes
Figure 7 Entrenched Trail Repair -Flat Areas
Figure 8 Restoration Plan -Trails Closed for Permanent Abandonment or Re-route
Figure 9 Rock Drain
Figure 10 Puncheon
Figure 11 Bridges & Boardwalks
Figure 12 Trail Grading & Drainage
Figure 13 Drain Dip
Figure 14 Earthen Water Bar
Figure 15 Culvert Cross Section
Figure 16 Trail Clearing & Brushing Limits
Figure 17 Trail Marker Post
Figure 18 Prototypical Educational Sign
Figure 19 Removable Metal Bollard
Final
Arastradero Trails Management Program
Maps, Figures & Tables
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March 2001
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Tables
Table 1 Special Status Species That Could Occur in Arastradero Preserve
Table 2 Sample Maintenance Log
Table 3 Calendar of Maintenance Activities
Table 4 Trail Assessment -~ummary of the Proposed Trail System
Table 5 Trail Implementation Program -Recommended Capital Improvements
Table 6 Trail Implementation Program -Recommended Annual Maintenance Tasks
Table 7 Trail Implementation Program -Recommended Cyclical Maintenance
Improvements
Table 8 Trail Surface Synopsis
Table 9 Vehicle Turn-around Design Summary
Final
Arastradero Trails Management Program
Maps, Figures & Tables
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March 2001
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I. Executive Summary
I The Executive Summary
Final
1.1< Overview & Purpose
Arastradero Preserve is located in the foothills within the city limits of Palo Alto.
It is bordered on its eastern boundary by the Town of Los Altos Hills and on the
western boundary by the Town of Portola Valley. Stanford University lies to the
north. (See Map 1 -Location). The Preserve was acquired in 1976 and opened
to the public in 1986. The primary recreational uses are hiking, jogging, biking,
horseback riding, dog walking and nature study, which are all dependent on the
Preserve's trail system.
The Preserve Mission was established in 1984 and sets the framework for the
development of this trails management plan. Simply stated the Preserve Mission
is to create and maintain "a low intensity and minimal cost park, with emphasis
on the natural and opeh space amenities of the land and sensitivity to the fragile
foothills ecology. Uses plannedfor the park should not duplicate those provided
in urban neighborhoods or regional parks."
The purpose of this handbook is to identify a variety of structures and techniques
that can be employed to design and maintain a trail system that fits the specific
ci!cumstances of this Preserve. It has been designed to address the specific needs
and desires of the users of this Preserve, while taking into account the local
topography, geology, climate, soils and vegetation of the site. This site specific,
resource oriented, trail maintenance program is intended to correct current trail
deficiencies and to route the trails around areas with biotic and soil constraints to
minimize impacts to sensitive resources.
This trails management handbook:
•
•
•
Establishes trail management objectives, strategies and recommendations
Incorporates a thorough environmental constraints analysis for providing
trails on the Preserve
Develops a hierarchy for performing trail maintenance, using well-defined
trail classifications tailored to user expectations and available staffing.
I
1.2 Existing Trail System
The existing Preserve trail system (See Map 2 -Existing Trail System) consists
of:
• A little under 9 miles of designated trails, which are located largely on utility
maintenance roads that were not originally designed for trail use. i
• < Several miles of "volunteer" or informal two to three foot wide trails, many
of which pass through environmentally sensitive areas resulting in
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Executive Summary
March 2001
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Final
degradation of the very resources that people expect to see when visiting the
Preserve.
Many of these trails have evolved informally through usage by recreational users
and by utility and fire equipment used to respond to emergencies within the
Preserve. Few of the trails have been designed and constructed to any specifi;c
standard. As a result some of the existing trails have deficiencies that are
. potentially hazardous andlor are adversely impacting the environment.
1.3 Proposed Trails Management Plan
Using trail evaluation criteria developed from public input and scientific analysis,
the Preserve Trail Maintenance System has been developed as a three-tier
system, "High Maintenance Trails", "Moderate Maintenance Trails" and
"Trail Routes that are to be Rerouted or Cl~sed to Protect Resources". Wb,ere
deficiencies have been.identified along specific trail alignments, these
deficiencies are to be corrected or the route is to be closed by repairing
environmental degradation and restoring the site to a condition that reflects the
native habitat for the immediate area.
Generally, the High Maintenance trail· system, which is to be oriented toward
year-round use, is located on the northern two-thirds of the Preserve closest to the
parking lot. Much of the back one-third of the Preserve will receive a Moderate
Level of maintenance and most of the trails will be limited to seasonal use.
The overall objectives in developing this tiered approach to trail maintenance is
to provide for:
• Visitor safety
• Resource Protection
• Public access
This trail system is to be developed for use by a wide range of people
participating in different activities at varying skill levels with minimum adverse
impact on the environment impacts. In response to public input, most of the
Preserve trail system will be developed and maintained as single-track trails.
These trails will be 4 to 6 feet wide to accommodate shared use by hikers,
runners, equestrians, bicyclists, and dogs on leashes. In some cases the trail
system will also need to accommodate the utility vehicles that maintain the utility
infrastructure that is located in the Preserve. In these cases the trail tread will be
surfaced with.a compacted base rock material and maintained at a width of 10
feet.
The Trails Management Plan proposes that: 5 miles of trail be designated and
maintained for year round recreational use and 5.3 miles of trail be designated
March 2001
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program . If 2
Executive Summary
Final
and maintained for limited (e.g. hiking only) or seasonal use, for a total of 10.3
miles of trails (See Map 9 -Proposed Trail System).
The Trail Managem~nt Plan recommends that 6.8 miles of existing, informal
trails that are causing environmental damage or provide a duplicate experience
(parallel trail) be designated for closure and the sites restored to their natural
condition.
Where trails are designated for seasonal winter closure, closure will be dependent
on seasonal precipitation and will occur when the trail surface becomes saturated
to the point where continued use could cause damage to the integrity of the trail
surface. The trail tread may be considered saturated when:
• precipitation exceeds one inch of rainfall over a 24-hour period
• standing water remains on the trail for twenty-four hours; and
• a ranger testing riding a mountain bicycle on the trail leaves a running
indentation in the trail after the 24-hour "wait period".
Typically these conditions can be expected between November'! 81 and March
30th• In dry years this "wet season" may be shorter or there may be a long dry
period where it may be appropriate to reopen trails for part of the winter.
Primary access to the Preserve will be from the existing staging area located on
the north side of Arastradero Road. Access will also be provided by the regional
connections that connect with the internal trail system and then extend beyond
the Preserve boundaries. These connections include:
• The Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail, which will form an east-
west year-round spine route through the Preserve
•
•
The Bay to Ridge Trail, which will provide a hiking connection through the
c City of Palo Alto from the Bay Trail to the Bay Area Ridge Trail along
Skyline Blvd.
Local community connections from the City of Palo Alto, Town of Portola
Valley, the Town of Los Altos Hills and Stanford University.
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Executive Summary
March 2001
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1. Introduction
1. Introduction
Final
1.1 Tri;1i1 Handbook Objectives
This Trails Management Program is inten~ed as an administrative and field tool for
the maintenance of the Arastradero Preserve Trail system. These maintenance
techniques and tools are intended to provide guidelines for:
• Arastradero administrative staff in developing staffing and budgeting priorities
for trail management, maintenance and rehabilitation programs
• Field staff responsible for trail construction and maintenance activities
• Bay Area Action -Peninsula Conservation Center Foundation (BAA + PCCF) in
developing volunteer programs
The handbook is intended to compliment the Arastradero Preserve Management
Plan (1996), which is a, comprehensive resource guide that describes specific
guidelines for:
•
•
•
Interpretive and research activities
Open space management and habitat protection, construction and maintenance of
facilities
City Department and Steward responsibilities on the Preserve.
This trails management guide was prepared to expand on the Arastradero Preserve
Management Plan (1996), by:
• Establishing trail management objectives, strategies and recommendations
• Preparing a thorough environmental constraints analysis for providing trails on
the Preserve
• Developing a hierarchy for performing trail maintenance using well-defined trail
classifications tailored to:
• user expectations
• available staffing
The plan was designed to address the specific needs and desires of the users of this
Preserve, while taking into account the local topography, geology, climate, soils and
vegetation of the site.
The handbook has been written with the assumption that it will be used to
supplement the knowledge of experienced field staff and that it'will enable them to
operate more efficiently and to be able to make more informed decisions in budgeting
future expenditures and in performing their daily work.
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Introduction
March 2001
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This plan is not a construction manual, but it does include prototype design diagrams
that can serve as a useful guide in developing construction documents where needed
to provide a new traiL alignment, or to reroute or correct an existing trail alignment.
It can also serve as a useful a guide for routine maintenance tasks.
This handbook does not substitute or replace any existing codes, rules or regulations
of the City or the permitting agencies that may govern trail development, but is
designed to compliment them.
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Introduction
March 2001
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2. Preserve History & Use
2. Preserve History &. U)se
Final
2.1 Overview
Arastradero Preserve is located in the foothills within the city limits of Palo Alto. On
its eastern boundary is the Town of Los Altos Hills and on the western boundary is
the Town of Portola Valley. Stanford University lies to the north. (See Map 1 -
Location). The Preserve was acquired in 1976 and opened to the public in 1986. The
primary recreational uses are hiking, jogging, biking, horseback riding, dog walking
and nature study, which are all dependent on the Preserve's trail system.
2.2 Management and Operations Policy
In March 1969 the City prepared citywide Policies and Proposals for the Trails and
Paths Plan. This set o! guidelines was designed to serve as'the general framework for
developing trails and pathways in the City of Palo Alto. This plan incorporates
habitat preservation as its primary goal, while providing for appropriate public access
and activities. In instances where public access and activities conflict with the
natural values of the Preserve, the preservation of the natural values of the Preserve
shall prevail.
The Preserve Mission was established in 1984 and sets the framework for the
development of this trails management plan. Simply stated the Preserve Mission i~ to
create and maintain "a low intensity and minimal cost park, with emphasis on the
natural and open space amenities of the land and sensitivity to the fragile foothills
ecology. Uses plannedfor the park should not duplicate those provided in urban
neighborhoods or regional parks."
The Arastradero Preserve Management Plan (1996) is a comprehensive document
that describes specific guidelines for interpretive and research activities, open space
management and habitat protection, construction and maintenance of facilities, and
City Department and Steward responsibilities on the Preserve.
2.3 Existing Internal Trail System
The existing Preserve trail system (See Map 2 -Existing Trail System) consists of:
• One gravel parking lot located adjacent to Arastradero Road, which serves as the
primary access into the Preserve Trail system
• Several non-vehicular access points, which serve local neighborhoods and an
adjoining major equestrian boarding facility.
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
History & Use
March 2001
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LoeA TION MAP
Final
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Plan
History & Use
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March 2001
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• A little under 9 miles of designated trails, which are located largely on utility
~aintenance roads that were not originally designed for trail use
• Several miles of "volunteer" or informal two to three foot wide trails, many of
which pass through environmentally sensitive areas resulting in degradation of
the very resources that people expect to see when visiting the Preserve.
Most of these trails are available for use by, hikers, runners, equestrians, bicyclists,
and dogs on leashes.
2.4 Regional Connections
Regional connections will be considered those trails that connect with the internal
trail system and then extend beyond the Preserve boundaries. There are three
primary types of external connections in the Preserve trail system:
• The Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail, which will form an east-west
year-round spine route through the Preserve
• The Bay to Ridge Trail, which will provide a hiking connection through the City .
of Palo Alto from the Bay Trail to the Bay Area Ridge Trail along Skyline Blvd.
• Local community connections from the City of Palo Alto, Town of Portola
Valley, the Town of Los Altos Hills and Stanford University.
Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail
In August 1990, Congress designated the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic
Trail as one of the trails in the National Trails system. This trail commemorates the
route taken by Anza in 1775-76 when he led a group of colonists from what is now
Horasitas, Sonora, Mexico to the San Francisco Bay where they established a
presidio and mission for New Spain. To recognize this historic journey, markers and
information displays along the actual route of the 1775-76 Anza expedition will be
constructed for interpretive purposes. Within Santa Clara County a trail will not be
constructed along most of the actual route. Instead a series of "recreation
retracement trails" will be developed to more closely represent the "experience of the
landscape',' that the explorers would have encountered in Santa Clara County. These
"recreation retracement trails" are intended to be shared use trails. The Juan Bautista
de Anza National Historic Trail shown in the Arastradero Preserve Trails
Management Plan is consistent with the 1995 Santa Clara Countywide Trails Master
Plan and the 1996 Juan Bautisa de Anza Comprehensive Management and Use Plan
Final Environmental Impact Statement.
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
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Bay, to Ridge Trail
The Bay to Ridge Trail is proposed to provide a hiking link between the Bay Trail,
which is located along the shoreline of the San Francisco Bay and the Bay Area
Ridge Trail, which parallels'Skyline Blvd. in the Open Space Preserves of
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District. The connection from Arastradero
Preserve to the south will eventually be through Foothills Park, if and when the
present ordinance is modified to allow entry into the Park at points other than the
main gate. This conceptual connection to Foothills Park isrecommended to follow
the existing maintenance access trail. This route will be designated as a hiking only
route. The Palo Alto Parks and Recreation Commission at its December 15, 2000
meeting tabled a discussion of a Foothills Park connection until it could be
adequately publicized and discussed in greater detail.
The route towards the Bay will pass through Stanford lands. It also will be
designated as a hiking only route. The trail is intended to be open for year round' use.
However, the Stanford connection may be subject to seasonal closure where it will
travel through the Highway 280 underpass, as this route is subject to flooding in the
winter months. Currently there are no dedicated routes where Stanford allows public
access near the Preserve. This connection will need to be coordinated with Stanford
University. Approval of this route could be subject to acceptance of the jurisdictions
that review and approve development proposals for the University. The University is
now in the process of developing a new land use plan for the campus. A connection
to Arastradero Preserve is one of many issues under consideration.
Local Connections
The intent of designating local connections on the Preserve Trails plan is to augment
the only formal access into the Preserve that is provided at the staging area off
Arastradero Road. This staging area can accommodate approximately 35 cars, and
provides little staging for horse trailers. By providing trail connections from local
neighborhoods it will allow people to recreate without having to get in their cars and
travel to the Preserve. All of the local connections are to accommodate all users and
are to be opened at a minimum to hikers on a year round basis.
Within the City of Palo Alto there are two neighborhood connections. One
connection would be primarily oriented to equestrians, as it would connect with the
Portola Pasture Stables (Stanford property).
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
History & Use
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Two connections will be provided from the Los Altos Hills Trails and Pathways
system. One connection will be off of Arastradero Road. The second connection
will be from Paseo del Roble Court.
There is one connection from Portola Valley. It is from John Marthens Lane. Here
local residents enter the Preserve from Gate C. Other con~ections to Portola Valley
will be dependent on securing easements from adjacent landowners. In the case of
Arastradero Road, most ofthe trail may be accommodated: within the road right-of-
way. Where this road right-of way is not adequate, the Countywide Trails Plan does
show a trail route and the County could work with the local agencies to develop a
trail adjacent to the road to connect with the Portola Valley trail system along Alpine
Road. Connections from the southwest comer of the Preserve adjacent to the John
Law property would have to cross the unincorporated area of Santa Clara County.
Because no trail connection is identified on the Countywide Trails Master Plan in this
location, the County would not be able to require an easement as a condition of
. development on any 01' the parcels that would provide a connection to Portola Valley.
Therefore, the Arastradero Trails Management Plan does not show a trail connection
from the southern end of the Preserve into the Town of Portola Valley at this time.
2.5 Ancillary Trail Facilities -Existing & Proposed
Access into the Preserve
A Gateway Facility was proposed in an earlier public planning process. It would
accommodate among other users and activities:
• A storage area for trail maintenance tools
• An area for demonstrating trail maintenance techniques and habitat restoration
techniques on the Preserve
• Ranger and Steward work space including, desk and phones and check-in and
docking capabilities for portable computers for staff use.
The Gravel Parking Lot was built in 1984 at a cost of $285,000 and has 35 spaces.
This parking area is to be retained as is and is to be the only designated parking area
for the entire. Preserve. It is to remain unlighted and closed when the Preserve is
closed.
A new staging area is proposed as part of the Gateway facility. It would include a
70-foot long by 20 wide area on the east side of the parking lot for amenities, which
may include:
•
•
Six to eight enclosed bike lockers in roofed enclosures
Informational signs with a trellis above to post information about the Preserve
and allow posting of messages by Preserve users
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
History & Use
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• . Benches with nearby shade trees
• Pay phone
Overflow parking typically occurs during the weekends and can be accommodated
by the Park and Ride facility on Page Mill Road. Currently there is a gap in the on-
street, nop-vehicular access route between the Los Altos Hills city limit line and the
Preserve parking lot entry. At this point, the bike lanes end abruptly. Safe bicycle and
pedestriaJ1 access to the Preserve is needed if the Park and Ride facility is to continue
to accommodate overflow parking.
Crosswalk Enhancements are recommended to improve crossing safety between the
parking lot and the remainder of the Preserve. These devices are also intended to
inform those traveling on Arastradero Road that they have entered a special, natural
area, which requires respect for the environment. Safety improvements may include
the addition of traffic calming devices including:
• Placement of additional caution signs for either approach
• Upright visual identity markers (such as a large sign or other vertical object(s)
that enhance Preserve identity) in the vicinity of the crosswalk that do not
compromise sight distance for either the trail users or motorists.
Trail Amenities
33 Gallon Trash Cans are to be provided in the parking lot in a location not visible
from the road. Signs are to be posted in the parking lot requesting people to pack out
their garbage.
Benches are to be comparable to those used in other City parks. Benches are to be
made of unfinished wood, constructed in a way to minimize maintenance and
vandalism. Benches are to be located in areas where they will not diminish the
natural values of the Preserve and where they will enhance visitor accessibility by
providing resting points along a trail route.
Two portable restrooms are located at the parking lot. One is ADA accessible.
These are proposed to be replaced with full restrooms, which will be located in the
gateway facility.
There is one drinking fountain, which is located in the Preserve parking lot.
A new horse-watering trough is also to be developed as part of the proposed
Gateway facility in the parking area. Installation of a dog-watering trough at
Arastradero Lake should also be considered, as dog use of the lake is to be highly
discouraged due to potential impacts they could have on red-legged frogs (if they are
present).
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
History & Use
Final
The City of Palo Alto is developing a new sign program. It will generally follow the
trail signage program developed for Poganip Park in Santa Cruz County. This
standard has 6"x6" redwood posts with Trail Markers bolted in place that will show
trail names, destinations and mileage.
Trail maps will continue to be distributed as brochures to reduce the potential for
vandalism associated with an on-site display board.
The standard for new fencing will be split rail. It will be constructed as a two-rail
fence 3 feet -6 inches high. Posts will be set 6 feet on center. The existing perimeter
barbwire fencing will eventually be replaced to meet this standard.
March 2001
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
History & Use
~-7
Source: City of Palo Alto
Map: Bay Area Action (D. Smernoff): Thomas Reid Associates (1/11/01
EXISTING TRAILS SYSTEM
Final
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Plan
History & Use
Trails ,
NDirt/Service Road;
, MultilRestrictedU~
/\/Unauthorized Trails
NRoads
, N Creek/Drainage
NBoundary
MAP 2
March 2001
2-8
3. Environmental Setting
3 Environmental Setting
Final
3.1 Biotic and Cultural Resources
The Preserve is comprised of 609 acres of rolling savanna grasslands, oak woodland
and riparian forests with a diverse and abundant variety of species of flora and fauna.
The area of the Preserve was originally inhabited by the Ohlone Indian tribe, and was
. later part of a Spanish land grant. No known cultural resources exist there today.
The vegetation types in order of predominance are grassland, oak woodland, creek
riparian, lake or pond, and chaparral. The topography 'is hilly .. The Preserve rises
from 300-foot elevation at Arastradero Road to 425-foot elevation on the north side
of the Preserve and 750wfoot elevation on the south side of the Preserve. The
Preserve contains thre~ creeks: Arastradero Creek, an unnamed tributary to
Arastradero Creek, and an unnamed tributary to Los Trancos Creek. It also contains
a small reservoir called Arastradero Lake, which is a dammed portion of Arastradero
Creek, and a pond called John Sobey Pond, which is also on Arastradero Creek
upstream of the lake.
Primarily because of its foothill location and variety of vegetation types, the Preserve
supports a diverse assemblage of plant and animal species. It provides potential
habitat for several protected species (Table 1). Several bird species of concern and
one plant have been observed at the Preserve, but no federally or state. listed species
have as yet been confIrmed present.
The soils in the Preserve include Azule loams, Los Gatos gravelly loam. Los Osos
clay loam, Pacheco clay loam, and Pleasanton loam. These soils are well drained,
slightly acid, and are typically used for range, recreation and watershed.
3.2 Land Uses
Arastradero Preserve, located in the City of Palo Alto, lies in the foothills of the
Santa Cruz Mountains, generally between Interstate 280 and Highway 35 (Skyline
Boulevard), The 609-acre Preserve straddles Arastradero Road, with most of the
Preserve lying on the south side of the road. Adjacent lands are open space owned by
Stanford University, private residences in the Town of Los Altos Hills, City ofPalQ
Alto and Santa Clara County, the P3J.o Alto Hills Golf and Country Club, Foothills.
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Environmental Setting
March 2001
3 -1
Final
Park (City of Palo Alto), and a private research facility (the American Institute of
Research).
Arastradero Road is a two-lane connector between Page Mill Road in Los Altos Hills
and Alpine Road in Portola Valley. The road is fairly straight between Page Mill
Road and the driveway to Portola Stables, just past the parking lot for the Preserve"
then it is it windy road as it climbs over a hill to get to Alpine Road. The road does'
not have a posted speed as it cuts across the Preserve. The travel corridor has sevet;al
views of the Preserve. Arastradero Road is a popular bicycle route. There is one
pedestrian crosswalk at Gate A, which provides the primary access from the parking
lot into the Preserve. This crossing is currently signed to warn drivers of pedestrians.
The Preserve is undeveloped except for a gravel parking lot with portable restrooms,
utility lines and access roads, a lake with a dam, and trails for hiking, bicycling and
equestrian use. It previously contained a house, a barn and a cottage, but these have
been removed. A "Gateway Facility" is proposed to be built adjacent to the parking
lot of the Preserve. This facility is currently under review by the City of Palo Alto.
3.3 Hazardous Fire Area (HFA)
The Preserve is in a designated Hazardous Fire Area (HFA). This means that there is
threat of fIre spread where there is vegetation fuel load and that there may be long
response times in the event of a fITe due to limited access/egress along narrow roads
that provide access to the Preserve. The area has also been designated as a Mutual
Threat Zone (MTZ) by agreement with the California Department of Forestry and
Fire Protection. This means that a fITe within the City's jurisdiction is a threat to the
State's jurisdiction and vice versa. The fITe season at the Preserve typically begins
June 1 and runs for 150 days to October 1, though the duration of the season can vary
based on weather conditions. Until the late 1800's flIes were a regular occurrence in
the Palo Alto Foothills, burning portions of the foothills every 20 to 40 years. More
recently fITes have been suppressed and the hills in and around the Preserve have not
burned since the 1985 Liddicoat Lane fITe, which was located along Arastradero
Road.
3.4 Utilities
The Preserve contains electrical, water, gas and wastewater utility lines and utility
access roads which are used by the City of Palo Alto Utilities Department and
maintained by the City of Palo Alto Public Works Department.
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Environmental Setting
March 2001
3-2
Final
Overhead electrical utility lines enter the Preserve from Arastradero Road near Tracy
Court, and extend through the Preserve essentially along Arastradero Creek. There is
also a booster station near Arastradero Lake called the Corte Madera Booster Station.
Access for maintenance and repair of these facilities is on all-weather gravel surface
roads. These roads can accommodate the heavy vehicles needed for repairs. The
primary entry point is Gate B. A ten-foot radius around poles having operable
devices (switches, fuses, transformers, comer poles) is kept clear of fuel sources
(trees, grasses and brush) by the Utilities Department. Tree trimming is generally
done every two to three years and ground clearing is done annually.
Water, gas and wastewater lines enter the Preserve from the south side of Arastradero
Road approximately 3/8 of a mile west of Page Mill Road. The water and sewer lines
continue westerly along Arastradero Road from the Preserve boundary for about a
mile, at which point the sewer line terminates. The water line continues along
Arastradero Road, then enters the Preserve and extends to the 1.5 million-gallon steel
Corte Madera water taBk located on the west side of the Preserve near the headwaters
of the unnamed tributary to Los Trancos Creek. An all-weather access road suitable
for heavy equipment extends from Gate B of the Preserve to the water tank for
maintenance and repair of the water line and tank.
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Enyironmental Setting
March 2001
3-3
'-". "
Source: Thomas Reid Associates; Bay Area Action (K. Cotter) .,'
Map: Bay Area Action (D. Smernoff); Thomas Reid Associates (1/ll/0n·
HABITA T TYPES
Final
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Plan
History & Use
Rolentit:ttCbnne,dT6rl
, .. ·tcisr~iit(')rd ..
Bressler inholding (no access)
SceAlc corridor along Arastradero Road
aDJoot buffertB2)
Creek/Drainage
Nproposed Trails-All Types
. ,NRoads
MAP 3
March 2001
3-4
Table 1
Special Status Species That Could Occur in Arastradero Preserve
SPEcms STATUS
California red-legged frog FT
(Rana aurora draytonii)
Foothill yellow-legged frog FSC, CSSC,
(Rana boyleO CP
Western Pond Turtle FSC, CSSC,
(Clemmys marmorata) CPo
California Tiger Salamander FC, CSSC,
(Ambystoma californiense) CP
San Francisco Garter Snake FE;CE
(Thamnophis sirtalis
tetrataenia)
Bay checkerspot butterfly FT
(Euphydryas editha bayensis)
Final
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Environmental Setting
~AT
pond, creek, riparian,
grassland
in or near rocky streams
in a variety of habitats;
requires permanent
water and dense cover
ponds, creeks in
woodland, grassland
seasonal wetlands in
grassland and oak-
savannah
ponds, marshes
serpentine grassland
with host plant Plantago
erecta and·nectar plants
Layia platyglossa and
Lasthenia califomica
HABITAT ON SITE
potential breeding habitat
in John Sobey pond and
Arastradero Lake;
estivation habitat in
riparian zone; may enter
grassland in heavy rains
suitable habitat in
Arastradero Creek and the
unnamed tributary to Los
Trancos Creek
possible sighting in
Arastradero Lake; habitat
onsite includes
Arastradero Creek, John
Sobey Pond, Arastradero
Lake,and the unnamed
tributary to Los Trancos
Creek
breeding habitat may
occur in the "bowl" near
. the top of the Preserve,
which is in proximity to
the unnamed tributary to
Los Trancos Creek
suitable habitat in
Arastradero Lake
Host plants not present;
area of serpentine
grassland in Preserve is
too small to support a
population
March 2001
3-5
Serpentine-based plants: see species
Lessingia arachnoidea (CNPS column
List IB ),' L. hololeuca (CNPS
List 3); Lessingia micradenia
glabrata (CNPS List lB);
Pentachaeta bellidiflora (Calif
Endangered, Federal
Endangered, CNPS List IB),'
Erysimum franciscanum
(CNPS List 4); Streptanthus
albidus albidus (FE, CNPS
List IB ),' S. albidus
peramoenus (CNPS List lB)
Acanthomintha duttonii (CE,
FE, CNPS List lB); A.
lanceolata (CNPS List 4);
Calochortus umbellatus
(CNPS List 4); 4); Eriogonum
argillosum (CNPS List 4);
Fritillaria agrestis (CNPS List.
4); F. biflora ineziana (CNPS
List IB); F.falcata (CNPS
List IB),' F. liliacea (CNPS
List IB); Hesperolinon
congestum (CT, FT, CNPS
List IB ),' Malacothamnus
arcuatus (CNPS List 4); M.
hallii (CNPS List IB);
Sidalcea hickmanii viridis
(CNPS List IB); Clarkia
breweri (CNPS List 4);
Cypripedium fasciculatum
(CNPS List 4), Linanthus .
ambiguus (CNPS List
E. luteolum caninum (CNPS
List 3); Galium andrewsii
gatense (CNPS List
4 );Castilleja affinis neglecta
(CT, FE, CNPS List lB)
Final
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Environmental Setting
serpentine or ultramafic
soils mostly in grassland
habitats, chaparral,
sometimes foothill
woodland, open
coniferous f~rest,
streambanks and seeps
Yes, two areas of
serpentine soil have been
identified; one is in 0
grassland and the other is
in chaparral.
Malacothamnus arcuatus
is historically known to
have occurred in the
preserve. It grows in
serpentine chaparral.
Habitat for Cypripedium
fasciculatum, which is
seeps and streambanks in
serpentine is not present.
March 2001
3-6.
White-flowered rein orchid CNPS
(Piperia candida) List 4
San Francis~o collinsia CNPS
(Collinsia multicolor) List 4
Western leatherwood (Dirca CNPS
occidentalis) List IB
Gairdner's yampah CNPS
(Perideridia gairdneri List 4
gairdneri)
Big-scale balsarriroot CNPS
(Balsamorhiza macrolepis List IB
macrolepis)
Final
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program .
Environmental Setting
open to shaded
coniferous forest and
mixed evergreen forest.
Associated with tan oak,
madrone, redwood
moist shady woodland,
associated with
California buckeye,
honeysuckle, ferns,
coast live oak, poison
oak
cool, moist slopes in
foothill woodland and
riparian habitat.
Associated with
California buckeye,
Coast live oak,
California bay laurel,
ferns, poison oak
moist soil of flats,
meadows, stream sides,
grasslands and pine
forests. Associated with
Kellogg's yampah,
rushes, sedges, blue-
eyed grass, California
oat grass, clarkia,
hairgrass
valley and foothill
grassland and foothill
woodland slopes.
Associated with yarrow,
oat grass, brame grass,
soap plant, rye grass,
blue wildrye, tarweed,
yampah, coast live oak,
valley oak, poison oak,
coffeeberry
possibly in oak woodland
yes, in oak woodland
yes, in oak woodland and
riparian
yes, in grassland, riparian.
.More common P.
keUoggii occurs on the
Preserve
yes, in grassland and oak
woodland
March 2001
3-7
Congdon's tarplant CNPS
(Hemizonia parryi congonii) List IB
Contra Costa goldfields CNPS
(Lasthenia conjugens) List 1B
Mexican mosquito fern CNPS
(Atolla mexicana) List 4
Forget-me-not popcorn flower CNPS
(Plagiobothrys myosotoides) List 4
Santa Cruz manzanita FSC;CNPS
(Arctostaphylos andersonii) List IB
Delta tule pea (Lathyrus CNPS
jepsonii jepsonii) List 1B
Final
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Environmental Setting
alkaline soils and valley
and foothill grassland,
disturbed sites where
water collects.
Associated with
mustard, rattlesnake
grass, thistles, bristly ox
tongue, tarweed
vernal pools, moist
valley and foothill
grassland. Associated
with other goldfields,
lupine, peppergrass,
muilla, butter and eggs.
ponds, slow streams,
wet ditches, marshes
and swamps.
Associated with tule,
cattail, mannagrass,
hydrocotyle
chaparral. Associated
with chamise. golden
yarrow
open sites and edges of
chaparral, coniferous
and evergreen forest.
Associated with
madrone, oaks, other
manzanitas, pine,
redwood
fresh water and brackish
marshes. Associated
with alder, mugwort,
aster, teasel, horsetail,
peppergrass, sycamore,
valley oak, California
rose, blackberry, arroyo
willow, tule
yes, in seeps in grassland.
although the soils at the
site tend to be acid, not
alkaline
Vernal pools do not occur
in the Preserve. Could
possibly occur in wet
areas in grassland,
although plant associates
are not common there and
the likelihood is very low
Arastradero Creek from
John Sobey Pond to
Arastradero Lake
chaparral is very limited
in the Preserve, likelihood
of occurrence is very low
low possibility in oak
woodland
fresh water marsh occurs
in Arastradero Lake, and
may occur in Arastradero
Creek and the tributary to
Arastradero Creek.
March 2001
3-8
Showy Indian clover CNPS
(Trifolium amoenum) List lB
Point Reye's meadowfoam CE;CNPS
(Limnanthes douglasii List lB
sulphurea)
Santa Clara red ribbons FSSC;
(Clarkia concinna automixa) CNPS
List IB
Slender-leaved pond weed CNPS
(Potamoseton filiformis) List 2
Saltmarsh Common FSC;CSSC
Yellowthroat (Geothlypis
trichas sinuosa)
San Francisco Dusky-footed CSSC
Woodrat (Neotoma jusc.ipes
annectens)
Final
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Environmental Setting
moist, heavy soils and
disturbed areas in valley
and foothill grassland,
sometimes serpentine
meadows, freshwater
marshes, vernal pools
and coastal prairie.
Associated with alder,
mustard, brome grass,
sedge, horsetail, velvet
grass, rushes, lupine, Ca
buttercup, blackberry,
tule, beeplant
Mesic shaded oak
woodland. Associated
with oat grass, clarkia,
eriogonum, white globe
lily, yarrow, bedstraw,
monkey flower,
phacelia, sage, poison
oak
shallow, clear fresh
water of lakes and
drainage channels,
marshes and swamps
fresh and brackish
marsh
chaparral, riparian,
woodland; needs grasses
for nest building
material
seeps in grassland;
presumed extinct in Santa
Clara County; not known
from San Mateo County
freshwater marsh occurs
in Arastradero Lake; some
wet areas in grassland
near Arastradero Creek
may provide habitat. No
vernal pools or coastal
prairie occur on the
Preserve
oak woodland
Possibly in Arastradero
Creek and unnamed
creeks in the Preserve,
presumed extinct in Santa
Clara County; not known
from San Mateo County.
Likelihood of occurrence
is very low.
nesting and forage habitat
in riparian habitat, John
Sobey pond and
Arastradero Lake
nesting habitat in riparian
vegetation and oak
woodland, forage in all
habitats on site
March 2001
3 -9-
Ringtail (Bassariscus astutus) eFP
,Pallid bat (Antrozous paUidus) esse
Townsend's western big-eared esse
bat (Corynorhinus townsendii
townsendii)
Mexican free-tailed bat esse
(Tadarida brasiliensis)
Big brown bat (Eptesicus esse
fuscus)
Silver haired bat esse
(Lasionycteris noctavigans)
California myotis (Myotis esse
californicus)
Long-eared myotis (Myotis esse
evotis)
Long-legged myotis (Myotis esse
volans)
Fi.nal
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Environmental Setting
brush, rocky areas, near
water
arid habitat, open
woods, crevices or
chambers in rocky areas
or buildings. Sensitive
to human intrusion.
mesic habitat, roosts in
caves, old buildings.
Sensitive to human
intrusion.
open areas, buildings,
highly colonial
closely associated with
humans, often colonizes
buildings, roosts in
hollow trees, hibernates
in caves, prefers
deciduous to coniferous
forest
woods near ponds and
streams; roosts in trees
and buildings
rocky canyons with
trees and open water;
desert scrub; roosts in
buildings
forest, woodland; roosts
in buildings and caves
coniferous forest, desert,
riparian, roosts in
buildings, rocks, trees;
forages over open water
and open woods
forage habitat in riparian
zone; possible nesting
habitat in hollow trees in
riparian zone
. Throughout Preserve
Forage habitat available in
Preserve; only trees
available for roosting
forage habitat available in
Preserve; no buildings
available for roosting
Forage habitat available;
roosting trees available;
no deciduous or
coniferous forest present
forage and roosting habitat
available
rocky canyon, desert scrub
habitat not at site. Pond
and lake may provide
open water forage habitat
forage habitat available;
no buildings or caves
Riparian, open water,
open woods, trees
available for forage and
roosting. No desert
habitat, rocky outcrops or
buildings
March 2001
3 -10
Yuma myotis (Myotis CSSC variable habitats and Forage habitat available;
yumanensis) open water. Roosts in no buildings forroosting
buildings
Table 1 Notes: FT -Federal threatened; FSC -Federal species of concern; csse -California species
of special concern; CP -California protected; FE -Federal endangered; CE -California endangered;
CfP-California fully protected; CNPS List IB -plants rare, threatened or endangered in California
and elsewhere; CNPS List 2 -plants rare, threatened, or endangered in California but common
elsewhere; CNPS List 3 -plants about which we need more information, a review list; CNPS List 4 -
plants of limited distribution, a watch list. .
Final
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Environmental Setting
March 2001
3 -11
4. General Objectives, Strategies &
Recommended Actions
4. General Objectives, Strategies &
Recommended Actions
Final
4.1 Resource Management
Objectives
In keeping with the Preserve Mission to create and maintain the Preserve with an
"emphasis on the natural and open space amenities of the land and sensitivity to the
fragile foothills ecology" the Preserve trail system should be maintained in concert
with the environment.
Strategies
• Encourage the growth of native vegetation
• Minimize impacts to water quality
• Minimize impacts'to sensitive plant or animal species
• Ensure there are no impacts to jurisdictional wetlands
• Minimize opportunities for invasive, non-native plants to gain a foothold in areas
not already impacted by these species
• Minimize potential harassment to nesting birds
• Minimize impacts to habitat for endangered and sensitive species to avoid a
"taking"
• ControUremove invasive, non-native plant species
. Actions
• . Whenever possible, trails should be routed to avoid wet areas including riparian
and pond habitats
• New trail alignments should avoid areas of predominately native vegetation
• Whenever possible. trails should be routed to avoid serpentine soils. If a route
must go through serpentine, it should flrst be surveyed for the presence of rare
plants and insects.
• Native vegetation should not be removed except in areas:
• where qualifled City personnel certify that plants create a flre hazard or on
flrebreaks
• within the tread of routinely maintained roads and trails
• Areas where informal trails are currently degrading Preserve habitat should be
closed and restored
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
General Objectives, Strategies & Recommended Actions
4.2 Tra iI Use
. Objectives
The Use Policies call for the Preserve to be managed as "an open space park
available to the general public, residents and non-residents alike" while not
"duplicating those [uses] provided in urban neighborhoods or regional parks."
Strategies
User Experience
• Provide a high quality user experience including opportunities to experience
nature, solitude, skill testing, and social interaction
Accepted Uses
• Provide for the needs of equestrians, off-road bicyclists, joggers, hikers, and dog
walkers by creating a shared use trail system
• Provide an interesting and varied recreational experience taking maximum
advantage of the varying landforms, ecological zones and vista points located on
the Preserve
• Limit use of the Preserveto designated trails. To prevent damage to the
Preserve's resources, off-trail use will only be allowed through a special use
permit that must be secured from the City
Creating a System to be Used and Useful
• Provide a backbone system of multiple (shared) use trails for year-round use that
will lead to a destination (e.g. Arastradero Lake) or provide a loop that will direct
users back to their starting point with minimal retracing of one's path
• Provide a secondary tier of trails that may be closed during the wet months or
other times of high sensitivity to meet other management objects
• Utilize existing trails and correct the deficiencies instead of building new trails
(where appropriate) to minimize potential environmental disturbance caused
during construction
• Include access to regional trails that connect the Preserve from:
• Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District Preserves through Foothills Park
(hiking only)
• the Town of Portola Valley
• the Town of Los Altos Hills
• Stanford University
• Provide connectivity for the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail
Final March 2001
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
General Objecti ves, Strategies & Recommended Actions
4-2
Final
Recommended Actions
User Experience
• Key experiences as set forth by the public should be made available to the widest
range of users possible
Accepted Uses
• An emphasis should be made on evaluating the trails to determine; their suitability
for hikers, joggers, dog walkers, bicyclists, and equestrians on a year-round or
seasonal basis
• Consideration should be given to providing tranquil park experiences
Creating a System to be Used and Useful
Divide the trail system into two distinct categories Primary or ''backbone'' Trails and
Secondary Trails:
• Primary or "backbone" trails -These shared use trails will provide access to
the primary eleme~ts at the Preserve and should be considered basic to the
recreation experience being offered at the site. Every effort should be made to
make this backbone trail system as accessible as possible to the widest range of
trail users throughout the year. While all of the trails identified in the first tier
may not meet the desired accessibility goals with regard to trail steepness or
width, these trails should be developed so:
• there'are no physical obstructions to access
• the trail tread is a minimum of 4 feet wide for internal recreation trails, 6 feet
wide for regional recreation trails (e.g. Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic .,
Trail and connections to other jurisdictions) and 10 feet wide for maintenance
access trails
• the trail surface is firm enough to accommodate a wheelchair during the dry
season
• Secondary trails....; These trails will provide access to elements that are not
primary to the overall experience of the Preserve. These trails can provide'
varying levels of accessibility, based on the nature of the site and the visitor's
expectations. Efforts towards improving access to and along these trails should
not undermine the very nature of the recreation activity that is being pursued or
the resource that is being enjoyed by the Preserve visitor. Typically the trail tread
will be a minimum of 4 feet wide on these trails.
Defining Trail Tread Widths
To iDeet a range of recreation and utilitarian needs the trail tread will be developed in
three different widths. A description of each of these trail tread types and the
intended purposes they will serve are provided below.
• 4-foot Wide Recreation Trails. Internal recreation trails will be developed to a
minimum width of 4 feet. This trail type will make up the majority of the trail
March 2001
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
General Objectives, Strategies & Recommended Actions
Final
system and will provide for a "single track" experience desired by many users.
This is the minimum width that can comfortably accommodate strollers and
wheelchairs. It will also accommodate rangers who must carry injured users out
of the Preserve on foot in emergency situations. In addition, a 4-foot trail tread
that is well designed will still be able to accommodate trail use if other staffmg
duties prevent ~ section of trail from being brushed backed for one or more
I
seasons. This trail width will still require one trail user to step off the trail if they
want to pass another. Therefore, it will be important to provide adequate sight
lines to avoid use conflicts. In addition, in situations where trail users will not be
able to move off the trail to allow passing, additional width should be considered
for that distance to minimize potential conflicts and hazardous use conditions
(e.g. falling off a steep slope to avoid an oncoming user).
• 6-foot Wide Recreation Trails. Trail entry points and trail routes that link to other
trail systems will be developed to a minimum width of 6 feet to: create a
welcoming, well-defined point of entry at the Preserve boundaries; allow for
people to pass at trye most congested use points, thereby minimizing potential
user conflicts; permit easier access during emergencies if rangers must carry
injured users out of the Preserve on foot; and improve accessibility for most trml
users.
• lO-foot Wide Maintenance Access Trails. A consistent, well defined, uniform
width of 10 feet is the minimum width that can adequately accommodate utility
vehicles without causing breakdown of hardened trail edges (which will reduce
the life of the trail tread) and intrusions onto the adjacent natural environment.
Hardening recommendations will reduce potential long-term impacts on water
quality and erosion of the trail tread, while improving accessibility of the trail for
many users.
4.3 Trail DeSign & Management
Objectives
In keeping with the Preserve Mission, trail design and management practices at the
Preserve should focus on creating and maintaining "a low intensity and minimal cost
park" while working to comply with City's policy to "retain natural habitat of the
Preserve" .
Strategies
Establishing a Level of Service for Maintenance
• Design a system that will require minimal maintenance over the long-term, even
ifthe initial construction costs are higher.
• Focus on providing a "reasonably safe facility" by:
• Eliminating hazardous situations by removing overhanging vegetation,
repairing trail tread, and controlling erosion
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
General Objectives, Strategies & Recommended Actions
March 2001
4'l'4·
Final
• Developing procedures for periodic inspection and maintenance
• Developing policies and procedures for trail management (e.g. seasonal
closures, signing, monitoring and enforcement)
• Designating an "all-weather backbone" trail system that will become the
highest priority for improvement and repair
Meetin2" User Needs
• Upgrade the trail system to follow the intent of the Americans with Disabilities
Act Guidelines for Outdoor Recreation -Trails (Final Report September 1999)
•
•
•
Provide safe access for park users beginning their visit to ~he Preserve from the
Page Mill Road Park and Ride and for local residents accessing the Preserve
from the surrounding areas
Provide a system of trail use and identity signs and maps that explain the
Preserve rules, trail use designations and highlight destinations
Incorporate an interpretive educational component into the programming and
design of the trail system .
Meetin2" Resource Objectives
• Reduce the visibility of the trails from adjacent lands and orient users views
away from private residences .
Recommended Actions
Establishin2" a Level of Service for Maintenance
• Provide a balance between:
• The degree of structural modification
• Customer expectations for accessibility
•. Preservation of natural features
• Primary purpose of the site
• Anticipated amount of use
• Customer expectations for risk and safety
• Provide a core route that will:
• Meet Preserve's Management Plan' s definition of accessibility
• Provide access to "favorite" places
• Consolidate parallel trails
• Remove trails in extremely environmentally sensitive areas to protect
endangered species
• Promote seasonal closure, where appropriate
• Focus on allocating labor and hours to:
• Removing overhanging vegetation, repairing trail tread, and controlling
erosion
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
General Objectives, Strategies & Recommended Actions
March 2001
4-5 "l
• Correcting key areas along the designated "year-round" trail route to
maximize accessibility and minimize degradation of the trail tread
• Providing a tiered approach to use and maintenance of Preserve trails that.
will include: minimizing risk to users, maintaining the structural integrity of
the trail tread, and protecting the environmental resources
Meeting User Needs -Designing to Minimize Use Conflicts
-Focus trail modifications on correcting trail conditions that contribute to trail use
conflicts by:
• Enhancing sight lines
. • Minimizing steep slopes
• Minimizing long, wide open stretches of trail that can encourage
excessive speeds
• Concentrating use in certain areas
Meeting User Needs -pesigning to Maximize Accessibility
• Focus trail modifications on correcting trail conditions to maxin:tize trail
accessibility for a wide range of skill levels and recreation types by:
• Eliminating physical barriers
• Providing signage, brochures or information that describes trail conditions
Meeting User Needs -Designing to Maximize Health & Safety
-Focus any trail modifications on enhancing user health and safety by:
• Using dust suppression techniques, such as watering during trail construction
• Evaluating existing trails on steep slopes for re-routing or improvement to
improve accessibility and visitor safety
• Developing switchbacks when routing trails on slopes greater than 15%
where tread will become too steep for safe use
• A voiding locating trails along disk lines as trail tread would be too rough to
accommodate visitors safely
Meeting Resource Objectives -Designing to Protect Viewshed
-Focus trail modifications on protecting viewshed by:
• Building new trails in· the visual corridor of Arastradero Road along contour
lines to reduce their visibility
• Locating new trails away from private residential properties to reduce views
into the private property
Final March 2001
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
General Objectives, Strategies & Recommended Actions
4-6 1
Final
4.4 Good Neighbors -Respecting Private Property Privacy
& Security
Objectives
Recognize the rights of adjacent private property owners and their relationship to the
Preserve. Work to facilitate coordination between the City and private landowners to
provide a balance between res~cting private property privacy and security and
providing opportunities for acc~ss from adjacent lands. Recognize that natural
systems do not typically follow boundary lines.
Strategies
• Locate, design and develop new trails with sensitivity to potential environmental,
recreational and privacy impacts on adjacent private lands
• Provide a buffer, fence and signs, as appropriate, to designate the Preserve
boundary
.
Recommended Actions
Private Property Privruqr & Security
• Provide a 30' minimum trail privacy buffer along those Preserve boundaries
where there are residential yard uses
Resource Enhancement
• Work with neighbors, including Stanford University and the Palo Alto Hills Golf
and Country Club, who share a common boundary with the Preserve to develop
cooperative programs that will extend the Preserve management objectives
beyond the Preserve boundaries
4.5 Managing to Meet Multiple Department Objectives -
Coordinating with the Fire Department
Objectives
In keeping with City's policy to "retain natural habitat afthe Preserve", Preserve
practices should focus on coordinating with the Fire Department to develop and
implement a fire suppression plan that will maximize the safety of the users and the
adjacent properties, without adversely impacting the natural environment.
Strategies
Responsibilities and Coordination
• The City Fire Department will serve as the primary providers for fire
suppression and life saving emergency services
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
General Objectives, Strategies & Recommended Actions
Final
Access
• Provide adequate access to the City Fire Department for Type 3 and 4 vehicles
Fire Prevention Techniques
• Use the least environmentally intrusive fire prevention methods at the Preserve
that can be implemented safely and effectively to meet the objectives of fire
prevention and fire suppression
Firebreak and Control Strategies
• The firebreak and control program should be developed to provide protection
from fires spreading onto adjacent properties, as well as coming into the Preserve
• Firebreaks/disk lines should provided only where they serve their intended
function in fire prevention and suppression
Temporary Closures .
• Provide an option to close the Preserve when conditons such as high fire danger
could pose a threat to the public
Rec()mmendations
Responsibilities and Coordination
The City Fire Department will continue to be responsible for:
• Developing and implementing the fire suppression plan
• Responding to fires and life safety emergencies by:
• Preventing and suppressing fire
• Responding to medical emergencies
• Assisting citizens with many other types of service requests
The City Fire Department will work with the City Open Space Division to:
• Develop fire hazard reduction and fuel management strategies
While the primary responsibility for fire and medical emergencies lies with the City
Fire Department, Park Rangers will typically be the first response team for fire and
medical emergencies within the Preserve.
As the Preserve is located in a Hazardous Fire Area (HFA), the City Open Space
Division should maintain the mutual support system between inter-departmental staff
and the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection as established in
the Mutual Threat Zone (MTZ) Agreement.
March 2001
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Ptogram
General Objectives; Strategies & Recommended Actions
4r 8
Final
Access
• Provide a 40 to 45 foot "drive" between Arastradero Road and Access Gates A
and B to provide a safe place for Fire Department staff to safely park their Type 3
and 4 vehicles when opening the Preserve entry gates
• Ensure that all six access points can accommodate fire vehicles at all times.
These access points include:
• The parking lot
• The access gate on Arastradero Road adjacent to the west of the parking lot
• Gate A (access limited to the existing turn-around on the west side of the first
concrete bridge spanning Arastradero Creek)
• Gate B, which serves as the primary Utility Department access
• Gate C, which is located off John Marthens Lane
• Gate D -Vista Hill Gate in Foothills Park (one-way downhill, except in
emergency sit?ations)
• Close, restore and annually mow designated emergency access routes within the
Preserve as needed to create a circulation route for Type 3 and 4 vehicles in the
case of emergency
• Provide emergency turn arounds where access roads dead-end (hammer-head
configuration needed for vehicle turn around) .
• Use a uniform maintenance gate at all major entry points with a universal locking
device to facilitate routine and emergency access into the Preserve by multiple
department staff
Fire prevention methods
• Fire prevention methods to be used at the Preserve include:
• Establishing fire lines onthe perimeters of open space lands, leaving the
interior areas in their natural condition
• Disking fire lines and mow fuel reduction zones to compartmentalize the
Preserve for fire suppression in the event of a fire
• Posting signs indicating the severity of the fire danger (low, moderate, high
extreme) during the fire season
• Posting signs "No Fireworks" June 20 to July 10
• Use herbicides as approved by the Superintendent of the Open Space
Division, where appropriate in implementing the wildland fire prevention
plan
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
General Objectives, Strategies & Recommended Actions
March 2001
~-9
Final
In addition, though not currently used, maintain an option for the Fire Department to
perform controlled burns in the future as part of their overall fire prevention plan.
Firebreak: and Control
• Firebreaks should be dis ked 24 feet wide or 11/2 times the fuel height adjacent to
the road, structures and where they c;an compartmentalize an area to reduce the
risk of a: fire igniting and/or spreadirig
• Firebreaks should be eliminated where they are not providing any benefit to fire
prevention or suppression
• Ideally disking should be performed twice a year, first in late spring and then
when the disk lines have "cured"
• If new activities/developments occurinside or adjacent to the Preserve
perimeters, then the location of the disk lines should be reevaluated and
expanded as appropriate.
Map 4 shows the emer~ency/maintenance access points of entry, trail travel routes to
be maintained for use by the Fire Department and Utility Department when servicing
the Preserve. This map also shows disk lines and indicates those sensitive resource
areas in the Preserve that should not be accessed by heavy vehicles.
Temporary Closures
The City Fire Department may close the Preserve when there is a threat to public
safety. When such emergencies occur the Fire Department is to notify Open Space
Division staff of emergency closures so they can notify the public. Emergency
closures may occur when:
• Weather conditions create a critical fire danger
• Arsonists are known to be present in the area
• Staff resources have been pulled away for other emergencies
4.6 Managing to Meet Multiple Department Objectives -
Coordinating with the Utility Department
Objectives
In keeping with City's policy to "retain natural habitat of the Preserve", Preserve
Park practices should focus on coordinating with the Utility Department to develop
and implement a utility maintenance plan that will maximize use of the utility roads
for public recreational use without adversely impacting the Utility Department
operations or the natural environment.
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
General Objectives, Strategies & ReCommended Actions
. March2001
4~lO
Strategies
Responsibilities and Coordination
• The Utilities Department is responsible for maintenance of electric, gas, and
wastewater facilities on the Preserve.
• Maintenance of the maintenance access trails that provide access for recreation
and maintenance of utility infrastructure should be coordinated to develop the
most skilled, cost effective and environmentally sound trail maintenance
program. Where the use of herbicides is to be considered in the utility .
maintenance program, the Superintendent of the Open Space Division must be
notified and the timing and application of the herbicide must approved by that
Superintendent.
Access .
• Provide access an~ use of the "maintenance access trails" by Utility Department
staff utilizing heavy vehicle to access inspect, repair and operate utility
infrastructure and substations within the Preserve. This function is not to be
. compromised by recreational.trail use .
. Temporary Closures
• Provide an option to close the Preserve when conditions could pose a threat to the
public.
Recommended Actions
Responsibilities and Coordination
The Utility Department is to oversee maintenance of:
• Access roads to the standard that the Department needs to inspect, repair and
operate all overhead facilities, with heavy vehicles.
• Adequate clearance for overhead transformer poles
• A 10' radius minimum area around poles having operable devices such as
switches, fuses, transformers and comer poles near the overhead facilities. This
area will be kept clear of trees, grasses and brush (fuel sources). Tree trimming
will typically be done every two to three years: Ground clearing with weed
trimmers will be done annually. Utility pole replacement typically occurs on a
20-year life cycle.
The Utility Department is to notify the Open Space Division staff when they are to
perform routine and emergency maintenance tasks so !hat the staff:
• Can notify the public about any potential dangers and/or inconveniences
Final March 2001
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
General Objectives, Strategies & Recommended Actions
4-11 1
• Evaluate the maintenance area to determine if there are any nesting animals
and/or endangered habitat in the maintenance area that must be protected or
relocated prior to performing routine maintenance procedures.
The Open Space Division and the Utility Department are to coordinate with other
City Departments to develop a joint parties agreement to ensure that existing trails
within utility corridors are maintained for year-round use utilizing the most skilled,
cost effective and environmentally sound trail maintenance techniques. It is assumed
that recreation trails will be maintained by the Open Space Division in accordance
with guidelines provided in this Trails Management Handbook as the primary
function of these trails is to provide recreation opportunities for a variety of trail
users. It is assumed that the Public Works Department will maintain the
maintenance access trails to utility standards because the primary purpose of these
trails is to provide access to the utility infrastructure that crosses through the
Preserve.
Access·
• The Open Space Division should continue to coordinate access with the Utility
Department to retain the following as trails "all-weather maintenance access
trails" suitable for utility access and year-round trail use:
• The utility route that services the Corte Madera Water Tank (utility access
suitable for heavy equipment is continuous from Gate B to the water tank)
• The utility route that parallels the creek between Arastradero Lake and the
boundary of Foothills Park (utility access suitable for heavy equipment is
continuous from Gate B to Gate D at Vista Hill)
• The Juan Bautista de Anza Trail-.8egment 2 (utility access suitable for
heavy equipment is continuous from Gate A to the existing tum-around on
the west side of the fIrst concrete bridge spanning Arastradero Creek.
• The Meadowlark Trail-Segment I, which extends from John Marthens
Lane to the old house site (this access may be used by utility vehicles, but is
more typically used by park staff.
• Provide a 40 to 45. foot "drive" between Arastradero Road and Access Gates A
and B to provide a safe place for Utility Department staff to safely park their
maintenance vehicles when opening the Preserve entry gates.
• Use a uniform maintenance gate at all major entry points with a universal locking
device to facilitate routine and emergency access into the Preserve by multiple
~epartment staff
• Ensure that these access points can accommodate utility vehicles:
• The parking lot
Final March 2001
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
General Objectives, Strategies & Recommended Actions
4-12 -1
• Gate A (access limited to the existing turn-around on the west side of the first
concrete bridge spanning Arastradero Creek)
• . Gate B, which is to continue to serve as the primary Utility Department
access
• Gate C, which is.located off John Marthens Lane
• Vista Hill Gate in Foothills Park (one-way d9wnhill, except in emergency
situations)
• Provide emergency road turn arounds where access roads dead end (hammer-
head configuration needed for turn around)
Temporaty Closures.
• The City Utility Department may close the Preserve when there is a threat to
public safety, When such emergencies occur the Utility Department is to notify
Open Space Division staff of emergency closures so they can notify the public.
For example the Preserve may be closed when:
• There is storm, damage to the utility infrastructure
• Heavy equipment or materials are being moved through the Preserve to
perform maintenance on the infrastructure
• The utility trail system is undergoing maintenance
Final March 2001 .
Arastradero Preserve Trails ManagementProgram
General Objectives, Strategies & Recommended Actions
<
:ARAST'RAoERO '
,.·.<MAP 4 FIRE PROTECTION "~;:~~& EMERGENCY
, ," "'\'& MAINTENANCE
\ \ACCESS
'FINAL
~MARCH2001
4-14
LEGEND FIRE PROTECTION & EMERGENCY ACCESS
" . ~ 4'·6' TRAIL
~ EXISTINGACCESSGATES&
MAINTENANCE ACCESS (8'-12')
, PROPOSED TO BE MAINTAINED TO
.. til' ACCOMMODATE VEHICLE ACCESS
..... _... ,''' __ -(DRY SEASON ONLY) .
......~ ~ PROPOSED MOWED ALIGNMENT FOR
... ,. ... ,; EMERGENCY ACCESS
.... -....... .,./'" .... _-(10' WIDTH! TYPE III VEHICLE ACCESS)
DISK LINE FOR FIRE MANAGEMENT =========== (10'-12' WIDE)
AREAS OF HIGH & MODERATE ENVIRON-
MENTAL CONSTRAINTS. COORDINATE WI
PARKS BEFORE PERFORMING MAIN·
TENANCE. AVOID ENTRY WI HEAVY
VEHICLES; EXCEPT ON DESIGNATED
MAINTENANCE TRAILS OR 'MOWED
ACCESS ROUTES ••
NOTE: TURN AROUND NUMBER 8 HAS
A TIGHT TURNING RADIUS & WILL NOT
ACCOMMODATE TYPE 3 & 4 VEHICLES
........ _-
___ -." BOUNDARY LINES
CREEK! DRAINAGE
" CONTOUR LINES
, " ~ROAD .(~PRIVATEPROPERTY
O TURN AROUND POINTS INCORPORATED
INTO TRAIt. <0 -------PRIMARY EMERGENCY VEHICLE
ACCESS
0 -----SECONDARY EMERGENCY
VEHICLE ACCESS
_______ MOweD AREA TO ACCOMMODATE
EMERGENCY VEHICLE TURN AROUND
5. Trail Maintenance Classification System
5. Trail Maintenance Classification System
Final
5.1 Use and Maintenance Evaluation Criteria
One of the first steps in developing a trails maintenance program for the Preserve was
to analyze the trail system considering its primary uses and environmental
sensitivities. This analysis included field investigations by a professional team of
landscape architects, biologists and soil erosion experts. Input from the public was
also solicited at two community workshops and in the form of a questionnaire that
was distributed by City staff, Bay Area Action staff and over the Internet.
5.2 Primary Trail Uses Guiding Trail Maintenance Standards
& Work Priorities .
Summary of Public Desires
Based on input received from the public questionnaire (see Appendix A) and the two
public workshops, the Preserve visitors would like to see the Preserve trail system
managed to:
• Accommodate shared use by hikers, runners, mountain bicyclists, dog walkers,
and naturalists
• Provide a core system of trails that could be used year-round
Community participants would like the trail system maintained as an unpaved, single
track system that would:
• Accommodate a variety of skill levels
• Provide access to key points of interest including:
• Arastradero Lake
• "the bowl"
• viewpoints such as the overlook near the old house site and the
StanfordlPreserve boundary
• Provide a link in the regional Juan Baustista de Anza National Historic Trail
Most of the respondents thought that preservation and restoration of the Preserve's
natural resources was a top priority and they were willing to see trails closed under
the following cQnditions:
• Where a existing trail is degrading an environmentally sensitive area
• Where there are parallel trails providing the same experience
Most of the participants did not want to see major upgrades of the overall trail
system. However, there were a few ardas that many people felt could use
improvement. These included:
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Classification System -
March 2001
5.r 1
Final
•. Safety improvements to Arastradero Road crossings
• At Gate A which provides the primary access into the Preserve at Gate A
(This recommendation is in keeping with the guidelines established in the
proposed Gateway Plan)
• At the Portola Stables access drive
•. Safe connections between the Preserve and Town of Los Altos Hills, the Town of
Portola Valley, Stanford Lands and Wdpennisula Regional Open Space trail
systems
• Management of non-native, invasive species where they are impacting the
visitors' trail experience
Acessibility
An effort should be made to meet the needs of all people, regardless of their physical
limitations, who may wish to visit the Preserve's natural and recreational resources.
In striving to meet a balance between accessibility and resource protection, this
handbook strives to follow the intent of the Americans with Disabilities Act Outdoor
· .
Guidelines/or Outdoor Recreation -Trails, Final Report, September 1999.
Access into the Preserve
All entry points into the Preserve should be developed so that there are no physical
obstructions (such as log motorcycles barriers or gates with difficult latches)
precluding entry by people with mobility limitations. At Gate A, which serves as the
primary access into the Preserve special care should be taken to design an accessible
route of travel. The primary access route from the parking lot into the Preserve
should be designed to:
• Eliminate any physical obstructions greater than 2" in height along the primary
access to the Preserve from the main parking lot
• Maintain a minimum trail width of 6 feet
• Maintain a gradient of less than 8%
Accessibility of Hi gh Maintenance Trails
Within the Preserve, on those trails designated High Maintenance, the trail design
should provide, as environmentally appropriate:
• Level passing/rest areas every 1,000 feet where the trail width is less than 5 feet
and where sight lines and/or adjacent side slopes do not allow for other users to
step off the trail to allow for wheelchairs to pass
• A trail surface that is firm and stable enough to provide traction and free
movement of wheels so as to accommodate a wheelchair during the dry season
Where it is not possible to meet these design objectives, either in the long-term or the
short-term, the City should make information available to the Preserve visitor
describing the trail system. This information should note trail lengths that are and are
. March200l
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Classification System
Final
not accessible and conditions that may present obstacles to potential trail users. Such
obstacles may include:
• Those trails whose running slope exceeds 5% for a sustained distance and where
the trail exceeds 10% maximum for more than 30 feet
• Those trails whose cross slope exceeds 3%
• The anticipated level of intensity
• The overall tread type (e.g. 4-foot wide tread of native soil)
• Those trail locations where there are any barriers to access
Accessibility of Moderate Maintenance Trails
In many of the more remote areas of the Preserve the design guidelines described
above may not be met under the following conditions:
• Where a trail is not connected to accessible trails or accessible trailheads and
• There is an opportunity to meet the request of many of the Preserve users to
provide "challenging" trail experiences
• The cost of co~structing a trail to meet these standards would be prohibitive
• A significantly adverse environmental impact would 'result from meeting
those guidelines
5.3 Environmental Sensitivity -Resourc,e Considerations
Guiding Trail Maintenance Standards &. Work Priorities
Overview
Trails provide the primary access to the natural, cultural and scenic resources of the
Preserve and are intended to enhance the visitor's enjoyment of those resources. Yet
the land areas they traverse have an inherent and variable ability to sustain
recreational use without suffering damage to soils, vegetation and water. This ability
can be relatively low, especially where soils are wet for long periods of time, where
slopes are steep and soils are highly erosive, or where vegetative habitats are very
fragile. Therefore, decisions regarding design, layout and construction of trails should
. be based on what is best for the Preserve's resources.
To increase the Preserve's ability to withstand recreational use without resource
damage, it is important to analyze the biotic resources, soils and aesthetic sensitivity
of the site and to respond with sound trail construction and maintenance techniques.
Trail conditions warranting correcting and/or rerouting trails include situations
where:
•
•
A trail can be rerouted to cross a slope instead of c~imbing directly up a slope to
more closely match topographic conditions
A trail can be rerouted to improve user safety and to circumnavigate or repair
eroded areas
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Classification System
March 2001
5'1 3
Final
• A trail is exceeding width guidelines or paralleling a second trail and the overall
trail route should be narrowed to the desired width
Conditions warranting temporary or permanent trail closure include situations where:
• A trail is significantly impacting natural resources of the Preserve
• A trail is not passable in wet weather
• A trail is too costly to maintain because additional structures are required to
bypass sensitive resources or mitigations are required to address impacts to
sensitive resources
Biological· Sensitivity
Arastradero Preserve is biologically diverse with areas of high biological vallie, and
it contains some legally protected species. The biological constraints to trail
construction or use have been divided into three categories: High, Moderate and
Low.
Specific Areas of High Constraint
"High constraint" applies to areas with particularly sensitive resources, which require
either avoidance or special measures, and possibly additional permits for trail
construction, modification, or maintenance. A voidance or very low impact design is
necessary for compliance with state and possibly federal law (California
Environmental Quality Act, California Department of Fish and Game Code,
Migratory Bird Treaty Act, state and federal Endangered Species Acts). These
particularly sensitive resources are habitat for listed animal and plant species.
Biological areas of "High Constraint" (See Map 5) are:
• Arastradero Creek riparian zone and tributary to Los Trancos Creek riparian zone
• Arastradero Lake and John Sobey Pond
• Serpentine Soils at the trail junction near the first cement bridge over Arastradero
Creek reached from Gate A and first trail junction to the east
• Riparian zone along tributary to Arastradero Creek (along the existing Perimeter
Trail)
• Wetland area on trail west of parking lot
• Wetlands along the existing trail that parallels Arastradero Creek north of
Arastradero Lake
Areas of Moderate Constraint
These are areas where trail alignments need to be changed, special trail building
materials need to be used, or the trail needs to be maintained in particular way. The
impa¢ts relate to Preserve management goals, but donot require permitting from
outside agencies or result in potential violation of state or federal statues.
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Classification System
March 2001
5-'14
A 1 -Creek Riparian Zones
A2 -Arastradero Lake and John Sabey Pond
A3 • Serpentine Soils
A4 . Horse. crossing of tributary to Ari:lstradero
A5 . Wet spot onPerimeterTrail
AB • Wet spot on trail west of parking lot
A7· Wetland
,. ·~~~J~t.~~~;~(;·eoad
"()/)~
Source: Thomas Reid Associates
Map: Bay Area Action (D. Smernoff); Thomas Reid Associates (1/1
: Rotentia/ Conn~.t1iori ..
. Ag:Sfi:l:mor d
·N Creek/Oraimage
,N'Roads
N Proposed Trails--AII Types
tal Riparian (A1)
[]]J] Wetlarid(A 7)
V-I Bressler inholding (no access) = Serpentine soil (A3)
ENVIRONMENTAL SENSITIVITY "HIGH CONSTRAINT"
Final
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Plan
Trail Maintenance Classification System
MAPS
March 2001
5-5
81 • Native Grasslands
82 -Trails adjacent to homes .
83 -Crossings ofNastradero Road
84 -Scenic Corridor
85 -Foothill Woodland
Source: Thomas Reid Associates
Map: Bay Area Action (0. Sniemoff): Thomas Reid Associates (1/1
ROjentigjCorll'le;dfdrl
.' ;:tg::SJefi:lftij:i:i:·· .
r'Llct-'rnrqn"""d Trails--AII T¥pes
ENVIRONMENTAL SENSITIVITY "MODERATE CONSTRAINT"
Final
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Plan
Trail Maintenance Classification System
MAP 6
March 2001
5-6
Final
Biological areas of "Moderate Constraint" (See Map 6) are:
• Native. grass stands most notably along the existing trail that parallels
Arastradero Creek south of Arastradero Lake and in the southern quadrant of the
Preserve
• Foothill Woodlands, most notably in the southern half of the Preserve
• Undisturbed areas of high biological value, most notably in the southeastern
corner of the Preserve north of Arastradero Creek
Areas of Low Constraint
These are areas where existing trail alignments do not pose impacts to sensitive
resources, but where trail use could have a negative impact. Seasonal closure is
recommended to prevent significant impacts.
Biological area of "Low Constraint" (See Map 7):
• "The Bowl"
Soil/Slope Sensitivity
SoiVslope sensitivity is an important consideration in trail development. A trail that is
improperly located and/or designed will be susceptible to erosion resulting in:
• Potential water quality impacts
• Impacts to user safety
• Higher maintenance costs
.• And ultimately, the potential loss of the I!ail
There are several factors involved in determining soiVslope suitability for trail
development. These include:
• The physical characteristics of the environment (i.e. erosive soils, saturated soils)
• Physical characteristics of the trail (e.g. trail width, and grade, line of sight, and
side slopes)
• Trail use (e.g. is this trail being designed to be "accessible by all" or designed as
a challenged course for use by a few)
Physical Characteristics of the Enyironment
There are several factors influencing the determination on whether development of a
trail in a particular location will result in creating "excessive slope". Physical
parameters that contribute to the soil's susceptibility to erosion and thus, the creation
of an "excessively steep" trail include:
• Soil texture (sandy, loam or heavy clay)
• Soil depth (to rock)
• Quantity of organic matter
• Presence or absence of stones
• Soil percolation rate
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
TraIl Maintenance Classification System
March 2001
54 7
J C1 ... -The Bowl I,
Source: Thomas.ReidAssociates . . ... ,,/.
Ma:p: Bay Area Action (D. Smernoff): Thomas ReidAssociates (1/11101)'
: RQtent~IConne:dr6ii
':t9 SftrbiO[d .
. N Cre.ek/prainage
N;Proposed Trail--AII Types
NRoadS
r::'lBressler Inholding (no acceSs)
ENVIRONMENTAL SENSITIVITY "LOW CONSTRAINT"
Final
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Plan
Trail Maintenance Classification System
MAP 7
March 2001
5-8
Final
•
•
•
•
•
Surface run-off patterns
Slope of the terrain
Aspect (northern or southern exposure)
Topographic position in the landform (ridgelines will typically have little
standing water, while water will tend to concentrate at the toelbottom of the
slope) ,
Quantity and type of vegetation adjacent to the trail
In the Preserve several soils are considered to have moderate limitations for trail
development due to the excessive slope based on the features described above (See
Map 8). These soils are:
• Azule clay loam (AuE) -15% -30% slope
• Los Gatos gravely loam (LfE2) -15% -30% slope
• Los Gatos gravely loam (LfE) -30% -50% slope
• Los Osos clay loam (LoE) -15% -30% slope
.
Physical Characteristics of the Trail
When determining the upper limit of the trail tread grade, the nature of the trail
. surface and the relative degree of traction it provides must be considered. Typically
the more the trail runs perpendicular to the slope,· the greater its potential to become
eroded. Ideally, trails should be developed with gently rolling curves that fit into the
contours of the land. This type of trail design will provide opportunities to drain
water off the trail so that erosion does not become a problem. Where long stretches
of a given grade cannot be avoided, then these trails should be broken into shorter
segments with water bars or water dips to inhibit water gaining speed and causing
gullying over a long downhill course. While suitable maximum gradients will vary
based on the conditions described above, trails developed on most soils will begin to
be susceptible to erosion where the gradient exceeds 10-12%. On the other hand,
trails should not be developed with zero grades as this can cause water to pond within
the trail bed. This condition can create saturated soils and breakdown of the trail .
surface as people leave the trail to avoid the wet areas.
Seasonal factors can also be key in determining whether a trail slope is excessive.
For example, a clay trail that may resist erosion and be firm, stable and easy to travel
when dry, can become erosive and difficult to travel when wet. Therefore, it may be
best to limit use of trails locate~ in areas with heavy clay soils to the dry season.
Trail Use
Asa general rule, trails should not De steeper than 10% (10 foot rise in 100 linear
feet). Grades of 1 to 7% are ideal for the IDgh Maintenance Trails that are to be
defined as "accessible". The grade should undulate gently to provide natural
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Classification System
March 2001
5,9
Souroe: D~' S mernoff. J,Kiehl
Map: Thomas Reld'Assoolites, 7/1810'0
,SOILSI SLOPE SENSITIVITY
Final
Arastradero Preserve' Trails Management Plan
Trail Maintenance Classification System
/'; " D irttS"~~"'IO'~ R oa ell
/', MuttriB~l!trloteellhe
Soils
u.n'lI!.ith'oJited
Ali: II! Clay toam
15S -30""Si)lle
LoJ GatQ(Dranll(ClayLaam
IS'40"3I1". 3D""'~Sl;lpe
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MAPS
March 2001
5-10
Final
drainage and to eliminate monotonous, level stretches and long, steep grades that
promote excessive speeds and increase the potential for user conflicts.
For Moderate Maintenance Trails, that are designed for use by moderate to highly
skilled users with little to no mobility constraints, a trail may be defined as steep
when the tread of the trail is greater than 15% and switchbacks or steps become
necessary to improve safety. Once a trail grade reaches this angle, trail use conflicts
can become more common on downhill stretches where bicycles are likely to
increase their speed and potentially skid out of control. On uphill grades trails
e;xceeding 15%, the casual or inexperienced bicyclist may need to dismount and push
their bikes.
Trail routes are to be closed or rerouted to protect resources where use of an
alignment is resulting in degradation ()f slopes, and causing excessive erosion and/or
impacts to habitat or water quality,.
Aesthetics
The natural setting of the Preserve is one of the primary reasons why people use the
trail system. The sights, smells, sounds textures which stimulate the mind, senses
and spirit are all related to the overall aesthetics of the Preserve. Views from the
trail, as well as the visual impacts a trail creates on the land. should be considered
when siting a trail. Trail construction and maintenance should also take into
consideration the visitor's perception of the Preserve. A well-constructed and
maintained trail will:
• Encourage the visitor to stay on the trail
• Provide the trail user with a pleasant and memorable experience
• Minimize adverse physical impacts on the Preserve's resources
Cultural, Archaeological and Paleontological Resources
There are no known archaeological and paleontological resources or geological
features at the Preserve, and no impact to these resources is anticipated. However,
according to the Palo Alto Comprehensive Plan, Arastradero Preserve contains two
areas that have moderate sensitive as archaeological resources. These are the riparian
zones along Arastradero Creek and the tributary to Los Trancos Creek. Therefore,
construction activities should be conducted with an awareness of the potential for
archaeological and paleontological resources or geological features at the Preserve. If
evidence of an archaeological and paleontological resource is uncovered during trail
construction or restoration activities, work on the trail shall stop and the area shall be
temporarily fenced off. The City shall contact the Coroner's office for evaluation of
the situation and advice on further measur~s.
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Classification System
Final
5.4 Tiered Approach Trail Management '
Based on the findings from this analysis of desired trail uses and potential
environmental opportunities and constraints is a program of maintenance guidelines
and work priorities has been developed of he Preserve. This maintenance program
calls for a three-tiered approach to ~ail development, realignment, maintenance and
environmental trail closure and site restoration. Map 9 shows the proposed trail
system, which has been divided into,lllgh Maintenance Trails and Moderate
Maintenance Trails.
High Maintenance Trails
These trails are to be maintained to the highest trail construction and maintenance
standards to accommodate year-round use. They will provide direct access from the
parking lot and proposed future gateway facility into the Preserve. Typically these
trails will offer opportunities to "loop" through the Preserve and return to the parking
area and or provide liJ.tks to neighboring communities and regional trail systems. A
portion of the high maintenance trail network will incorporate maintenance access
trails that are used by the City Utility Department to maintain the utility infrastructure
located within the Preserve.
High Maintenance Trails will form the "all-weather" core system in the Preserve.
They will include the regional Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail and
connections to the local communities of the Town of Los Altos Hills, the Town of
Portola Valley and potentially to the Stanford lands and Foothills Park. These trails
will be regularly maintained to the highest standard for the highest volume of use for
people with the lowest skill and experience levels and will be oriented towards
meeting accessibility standards for families with young children, seniors and
individuals with special needs.
Moderate Maintenance Trails
These trails are to be maintained to a:ccommodate seasonal use. These trails will be
maintained for moderate volumes of use for people with trail experience seeking a
"remote" or "challenging" experience. These trails will form a secondary loop to the
High Maintenance Trails. The moderate maintenance program is oriented towards
balancing recreation use with resource preservation and enhancement. Maintenance
priorities are focused on repairing unsafe conditions and mitigating potentially
degrading environmental impacts. Inspections to detect these problems should be
conducted on an annual basis at a minimum.
Trail Routes that are to be Rerouted or Closed to PrQtect Resources
These are trail alignments that have, been found to:
• Pass through sensitive biotic resource areas
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Classification System
March 2001
5r 12
/
( \J
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.. ------. ,-,-,..:... -.\
.r·"'·-
ARASTRADERO
. .
MAP 9 THE PROPOSED
. -TRAIL SYSTEM
FINAL
\MARCH2001
5-13
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THE PROPOSED TRAIL SYSTEM MAP ....... -....
HIGH LEVEL MAINTENANCE IJ11UTY
--.~
-YEAR ROUND ACC~SS (8' WIDE MJN~)
BOUNDARY UNES
---------~
\ ~ ROAD
. RECREATION ............ MAlNTENANC~ DE MIN.)",.--.
-..", ~JW'~'6bNDACCESS(4 WI .T;;"~. %Y-%Y0'/;',JPRlVATEPROPERIY '-..,/ ~##~M)
CREEK! DRAINAGE
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"-... ' .... -, .... _--" .... I ....
MODERATE LEVEL MAINTENANCE
-SEASONAL ACCESS
~ . BENCH
+ SEASONAl CLOSURE SIGN! BOUARD
+ .,
BEGIN YEAR ROUND ACCESS -HIKERS
ONLY; SEASONAL (WINTER) CLOSURE
FOR BIKES & HORSES BEYOND THIS
POINT
BEGIN HIKERS MAINTENANCE ACCESS
ONLY TRAIL (YEAR-ROUND)
,,1"--
Final
• Be causing damage to the resources due to deficient design or construction
techniques
• Parallel another route offering similar experiences
These trails are to be closed by repairing environmental degradation and restoring the
site to a condition that reflects the natural, native habitat of the immediate area.
Where appropriate, a new alignment has been proposed as a High or Moderate
Maintenance Trail in an environmentally superior location. The purpose of these
new routes is to provide enhanced recreation experiences, while minimizing impacts
on sensitive resources over the long term, thereby reducing maintenance
requirements. Refer to Map 11 (Section 6) for trail routes that are to be closed or
rerouted to protect resources.
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Classification System
March 2001
5" 14
6. The Trail Maintenance Program
6. The Trail Maintenance Program
Final
6.1 Trail Maintenance Defined
Trail maintenance is the process of keeping a trail at or near its original constructed
or intended design standard It includes all work required to correct any damage or
disturbance to the trail and to adjacent vegetation and slopes.
To elaborate, this trail maintenance program includes guidelines for the following
tasks:
• Keeping trail structures such as bridges safe for travel
• Adequately maintaining the trail tread surface to provide a walking or riding
surface free from obstacles or hazards
• Building and maintaining dr3.inage facilities to prevent loss from erosion
• Clearing and brushing adjacent to the trail to define and protect the established
tread
The function of this section of the handbook is to identify a variety of structures and
techniques that can be employed to design and niaintain a trail system that fits the
specific circumstances of this Preserve. This trail system is to be developed for use
by a wide range of people participating in different activities at varying skill levels
with minimum adverse inlpact on the environment impacts. This site specific,
resource oriented, trail maintenance program is intended to correct current trail
. deficiencies and to route the trails around areas with biotic and soil constraints to
minimize impacts to sensitive resources.
6.2 The Trail Maintenance System
Using the Trail Use and Management Evaluation Criteria described in Section 5, the
Preserve trail maintenance system has been divided into three tiers, "High
Maintenance Trails", "Moderate Maintenance Trails" and "Trail Routes that are
to be Rerouted or Closed to Protect Resources". The overall objectives in
developing this tiered approach to trail maintenance is to provide for:
•
•
•
Visitor safety
Resource Protection
Public access
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Programs
March 2001
6~ 1
Final
High Maintenance Trails
Ley~lof Service
These trails are to be maintained to the highest trail construction and maintenance
standards to accommodate year-round use. Maintenance priorities will focus on:
• Repairing unsafe or unpleasant experience conditions
• Removing any barriers to access
• Maintaining the trail system to accommodate the highest volumes of use and the
lowest skill levels including families, seniors and individuals with special needs.
Inspections to detect maintenance problems should be performed on a routine basis
in the Spring and Fall months. When unsafe conditions. are identified they should be
corrected immediately or the trail section should be barricaded from use until the
trail can be made safe for public access.
• While the focus will be on providing year-round use, these High Maintenance
Trails may be closed to protect the public and the resources under the following
conditions:
• Up to 72 hours after heavy winter storms where wet soils could result in
damaging the integrity of the trail bed
• During sensitive nesting or foraging periods for wildlife
• When there is a threat to public safety
Trail Tread Widths and Surface Materials
The High Maintenance Recreation Trail tread will generally be·4 feet wide.
Exceptions will include the regional Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail,
which will be 6 feet wide. Connections to the local communities of the Town of Los
Altos Hills, the Town of Portola Valley and Stanford lands will also typically be 6
feet wide. The existing maintenance access routes that are used by the City Utility
Department will also form a part of the High Maintenance Trail system. These
existing maintenance access routes will be maintained with a lO-foot wide trail tread.
The trail tread surface (refer to Figure 4 to reference trail terminology) will typically
be composed of cleared, compacted native material where a firm, stable surface can
be sufficiently maintained to accommodate a wheelchair. Where native materials may
limit use, trail hardeners may be incorporated to:
• Provide a firm surface
• Protect sensitive habitat
• Make an otherwise saturated trail useable during the winter months
Trail surface hardeners may include:
• Compacted aggregate base materials
Arastradero Pre~erve Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Programs
March 2001
6r 2
Final
• Polymers applied to harden base materials
• Paver blocks
• Puncheons
• Boardwalks
Refer to Section 7 for guidelines on trail trea~ construction techniques and Table 8-
Trail Surface Synopsis for a summary of trail surfacing options.
Other techniques for improving the firmness and stability of the trail surface include
a variety of drainage techniques and structures that are discussed in Section 7 under
"Grading and Drainage".
Clearin~ and Brushin~
The trail clearing limits for down logs and tree limbing should be 10 feet high and 3
feet wide on each side of the trail. (Refer to Section 7, Figure 16 for trail clearing
and brushing limits). Trail brushing limits for shrubby and herbaceous plant species
extending into the trail should be 10 feet high and 3 feet wide on each side of the
trail. These plants should be cleared to ground level. Clearing widths should be
directed to providing clear passage and providing an average sight line of 100-feet.
Low growing and slow growing shrubs and ground cover less than two feet in height
should be left undisturbed.
Moderate Maintenance Trails
Level of Service
These trails are to be maintained to accommodate seasonal use. They typically will
be closed to trail use:
• During the winter season when trail use could damage the integrity of a saturated
trail bed
• . During sensitive nesting or breeding periods for wildlife.
Most seasonal closures will apply to all trail uses, including maintenance vehicles.
However, the Meadowlark Trail between Access Gate C and the old Barn site will
remain open for use by hikers and emergency vehicles year round. It will serve as a
seasonal trail for routine maintenance, equestrians and bicyclists.
Refer to Maps 9 and 10 for the locations of the moderate maintenance trails.
Winter seasonal closure will be dependent on seasonal precipitation and will occur
when the trail surface becomes saturated to the point that continued use could
damage the integrity of the trail surface. The trail tread may be considered saturated
when:
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Programs
March 2001
6~ 3
Final
-Precipitation exceeds one inch of rainfall over a 24~hour period
-Standing water remains on the trail for tweilty~four hours; and
-A ranger riding a mountain bicycle on the trail leaves a noticeable running
indentation in the trail after the 24~hour "wait period".
Typically these conditions can be expected between November 1st and March 30th • In
dry years this "wet season" may be shorter or there may be a long dry period where it
may be appropriate to reopen trails for part of the winter ..
Initially hours of patrol to inform users and enforce the seasonal closure policies may
be increased during the "wet season", though the long-term hours for patrol should be
reduced once trail users understand the seasonal use rules. Safety of the users should
be improved because they will not be using trails that the ranger staff can not easily .
access to rescue injured trail users during the winter months. Long-term maintenance
requirements should be reduced because use will be limited on a portion of the trail
system duri,ng the wet ;winter season and the level of maintenance on these seasonal
trails will be limited to accommodating use in the dry season. In addition, as with
the High Maintenance trails, all or any part of the Preserve may be temporarily closed
when there is a threat to public safety.
Moderate Level Maintenance tasks will be oriented towards maintaining the trail for
the dry season. Emphasis will be placed on repairing unsafe conditions and
mitigating potentially degrading environmental impacts. Trails will be maintained for
moderate volumes of use by moderate and highly skilled trail users with no mobility
limitations. Inspections to detect problem areas on these trails should be conducted
in the Spring, prior to seasonal opening, to identify any unsafe conditions. Unsafe
conditions should be corrected or the trail section barricaded from use until the trail
can be made safe for public access. Additional maintenance will be required in the
fall to prepare these trails for winter closure. Tasks will typically include installation
of water bars and monitoring trail tread to determine when trail closure bollardslsigns
should be put in place.
Trail Tread Widths and Surface Materials
Moderate Maintenance Trail tread will typically be 4 feet wide and the trail tread
surface will be composed of cleared, compacted native material. This surface may be
augmented by employing occasional trail surface treatments or drainage structures
where needed to protect sensitive habitat. As long sections of these trail routes pass
through sensitive habitat or saturated or erosive soils, these trails will be closed on a
seasonal basis.
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Programs
March 2001
6,,4
Final
Moderate Maintenance trail clearing limits for down logs and tree limbing should be
10 feet high and 3 feet wide on each side of the trail. Trail brushing limits for
shrubby and herbaceous plant species extending into the trail should be 10 feet high
and 2 feet wide on each side of the trail. These plants should be cleared to ground
level. Clearing widths should be directed to providing clear passage and providing
an average sight line of 100-feet. Low growing and slow growing shrubs and ground
cover less than two feet in height should be left undisturbed. Refer to Section 7,
Figure 16 for trail clearing and brushing limits.
Trail Routes that are to be Closed or Rerouted to Protect Resources
Many of the trails within the Preserve have evolved informally through usage. Few
of the trails have been designed and constructed to any specific standard. As a result
some of the existing trails have deficiencies that are potentially hazardous and/or are
adversely impacting the environment. These deficient trail alignments are to be
closed by repairing environmental degradation and restoring the site to a condition
that reflects suitable native habitat for the immediate area. Closures may be
temporary or permanent depending on the severity of the condition.
Temporary Trail Closures
Trails are to be temporarily closed when conditions become unsafe or environmental
resources are in danger of becoming severely impacted. Notice of trail closures
should be posed on the parking lot display board, at the trail entrances and posted on
the City of Palo Alto Arastradero Internet Web page. Notices should be as detailed as
possible and include information regarding the reason and duration of closure. The
notice should also include a number to call for more information. Entrances should
be barricaded where feasible and appropriate.
Conditions which may warranted temporary trail closure include:
• Closure of Moderate maintenance trails during the wet winter months
• Construction (and "settling period" ) of new trail sections
• High fire hazard in the immediate area
• Major seasonal repairs to existing segments
• Seasonal periods critical to special status species
• Hazardous conditions (e.g. landslide, washout, gully erosion, flooding, extremely
wet weather)
• Special use events
• Overuse which threatens natural resources
Permanent Trail Closures
Trails are to be permanently closed when continued use of a trail alignment is
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Programs
Final
unwarranted because the trail does not meet the objectives of the trail management
program and/or corrective actions would be too expensive.
Conditions warranting permanent closures (and in some cases rerouting of trails)
include situations where:
•
•
•
•
There are particularly sensitive resources, which requ~e either avoidance or
special measures, and possibly environmental regulatory permits for trail
construction, modification, or maintenance
Shortcuts and informal trails are causing damage to vegetation, soil erosion, and
creating drainage problems
Gullies and ruts may be so severe and deep that filling them with native soils is
impractical
There are parallel trails located immediately adjacent to one another that are
providing the same experience and providing access to the same destination
• There is a documented history of accidents or serious conflicts that cannot be
corrected through design or regulation
In areas where an existing trail is being relocated or abandoned, the existing trail
should be obliterated and restored to as natural a condition as possible. This will
avoid:
• Confusions as to which trail to use
• Eliminate sources of erosion
• Restore the site to provide a more natural appearance
• Help to eliminate short cutting
Refer to Map 11 for Trail Routes to Be Closed or Rerouted.
6.3 Assessment of Trail Routes
Understanding that there is a limited amount of money and labor for trail work, that
work should be directed toward the factors that have the potential to be the most
hazardous to the public and are causing the most damage.
Safety and Structural Integrity of the Trail System
Trail work should be divided into those tasks, which are essential and non-essential
in maintaining the integrity of the trail system. Essential tasks are those, which
provide for visitor safety, protect the resource and protect the structural integrity of
the trail investment. Essential tasks include correcting damage to a trail structure that
could fester over time, ultimately resulting in potential loss of the trail. Non-essential
tasks are those which are directed solely toward visitor convenience. For example,
neglect of drainage maintenance can develop into a situation where a trail system
could literally be washed away. On the other hand, a trail that receives no clearing or
March 2001
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Programs
Final
brushing could grow over to a point of physical closure with little resource or safety
problems.
Developing and Maintaining a Field Log
All trail and trail structures/features should be inspected at least once a year at the
close o~ the winter "wet season". These inspections will help identify public safety
and resource management problems, as well as routine maintenance needs. This
process: involves hiking each trail and noting the general condition of the trail bed
and tread surface, as well as every structure (e.g. bridges, puncheon, safety rails,
drain dips). Deficiencies should be noted and recorded into a field log. Once
identified, these problems can be scheduled for correction through the annual
maintenance program. Table 2 -Sample Maintenance Log provides a sample
maintenance log for recording maintenance inspections, categorizing needed repairs
and identifying completed tasks.
AnilUal Trail Maintenance
Ideally drainage maintenance, tread maintenance and vegetative clearing and
brushing are considered'as annual trail maintenance tasks and are performed as a
unit. Table 3 -Calendar of Maintenance Activities provides a summary breakdown
of routine tasks and timing for performing these work activities.
Cyclic Trail Replacement Projects
Construction, reconstruction, rehabilitation and restoration are considered facility
trail maintenance projects and are performed on a project basis. These cyclic
replacement projects are contingent on normal wear-out life spans. Storm damage,
vandalism, and other uncontrollable acts can greatly reduce replacement times. An
example of a facility maintenance project would be the repair of the drainage channel
and surfacing of the maintenance access trail that parallels Arastradero Creek.
Periodic trail inspections will keep staff abreast of current trail conditions.
Proposed Trail Upgrade and Restoration Projects
Many of the existing trails within the Preserve do not meet the guidelines shown in
this handbook. This handbook provides recommendations for upgrading the existing
and developing proposed High and Moderate Maintenance trails. It also identifies
restoration projects for the trails that are to be abandoned and permanently eliminated
from the Preserve Trail system. Map 10 Implementation Program -High
Maintenance Trails and Moderate Maintenance Trails shows the High Maintenance
and Moderate Trail Routes identified by trail segments. Map 11 Implemen.tation
Program -Trail Routes that are to be Closed or Rerouted to Protect Resources
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Programs
March 2001
6,,\7
Table 2 Trail Maintenance Log -Sample
Date o DailyJWeekly Inspections
Inspectors o Winter Inspection
o Spring Inspection
Trail Segment o Summer Inspection
o Faliinspection
This list is only to serve as a guide in reporting use violations, safety hazards, and accidents, damaged or missing trail features in an expeditious manner. Look
for other conditions. Mark as noted below. Where hazardous conditions are found close and sign that trail section and report hazard and determine appropriate
remedial action (e.g. repair condition, apply for emergency funds to repair condition, close trail segment for season until funds can be allocated in capital budget
or volunteer work efforts can be organized)
( ) Satisfactory (U) Unsatisfactory (X) Immediate Attention Needed (M) Monitor Condition
1. 'IRAlL STAGING/ACCESS
A. Traffic Control
_1.Signs
_ 2. Sight Lines Cleared
__ 3. Crosswalk striping
B. Barriers
1. Fences
2. Seasonal Bollards
__ 3. Maintenance Gates
2-VEGETATION
ENHANCEMENT
A. Replacement Treeslshrubs
B. Staking cages
C. Weed abatement
Final
3. SUPPORT FACILITIES
A. Water Supply
1. Potable water/drinking
fountain
__ 2. Non-potable water
animal water troughs)
__ B. Portable Toilets
__ C. Benches, bike racks
__ D. Litter
4. 'IRAlL SEGMENTS
A. Clearance
__ 1. Sight Lines Maintained
__ 2. 10' Overhead clearance
B. Surface
__ '1. Tread free of fallen
liInbs,trees,debris
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Programs
__ 2. Tread damage from
seasonal wash outs
__ 3. Culverts, catch basins,
drainage structures.
__ 4. Bridges, pavers other
hardeners
5. 'IRAlL USE
A. Type of Use
_ 1. Hiking! Running
__ 2"Equestrians
3. Dogs
__ 4. Biking
... 5. Wheelchairs
B. Level of Use
__ 1.Low
2. Moderate
3. High
C. Visitor Interface
__ 1. Citation Issued
__ 2. Accident assistance
__ 3. Education/Outreach
6. REVIEW OF PREVIOUS
TRIL MANAMGENT
PROVISIONS
A. Trail/Staging Condition
__ 1. Satisfactory
2. Unsatisfactory
B. Previous Deficiencies
. __ 1. Outstanding
__ 2. Have been repaired
March 2001
6-8
Condition or Problem Recommendations to
Correct Problem
Final
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Programs
· .....•.......... _ .. -.. -.-- - ----- - --.., _ ... -.. -._ .. _ .........•. -.-.-lte R Attenf
Estimated Cost Problem Corrected By
.
)
Date
"'''
Initials
March 2001
6-9
Table 3 Calendar of Trail Maintenance Activities
Months Actiyities
Daily .... All Months of CJ Empty trash cans & collect litter
the Year CJ Graffiti removal (within 2 days of occurrence)
All Months of the CJ Update Information Panel at parking lot
Year as Needed for CJ Monitor unauthorized encroachments
Hazard Abatement & CJ Remove fal!en trees, limbs & debris
User Safety CJ Repair/replace signs
(J Conduct inspections & repair facilities (benches bridaes etc)
January, February, CJ Post "storm damage signs" as needed
March, October, CJ Monitor & install "seasonal closure" bollards as appropriate (Nov.-Mar.)
November, CJ Remove "Fire danger signs" at end of fire season
December CJ Perform mid-winter culvert, water bar, & drain check on all-weather
trails
February, March CJ Assess storm damage & erosion damage
CJ Erosion mitigation work
CJ Habitat Enhancement -native plant seeding/planting
CJ Weed Abatement -non-native control*
April, May CJ Clean, inspect & repair culverts, drains & water dips & water bars
CJ Perform drainage & ditch work
CJ Perform storm damage, & erosion repairs
CJ Remove "storm damage signs"
CJ Remove "seasonal closure" bollards as appropriate
CJ Repair/replace fences & gates
"
CJ Remove Poison Oak
CJ Weed Abatement -non-native control & fire hazard reduction*
May, June, July CJ Perform storm damage & erosion repairs
CJ Repair washouts & damaged trail tread
(J Brush & prune trail to provide clearance & improve sight-lines*
CJ Post "No fireworks" signs (June)
CJ Post and monitor "Fire danger signs"
CJ Remove "No fireworks" signs (July).
CJ Mow "emeraency fire roads" & disk fire breaks
July, August CJ Repair damage to "hardened" trail tread
CJ Perform routine maintenance on native soil trail tread
August, September, Q Monitor "Fire danger signs"
October [J Repair/replace fences & gates
CJ Install/repair seasonal water bars to prepare for winter (mid-Sept-Oct)
CJ Clean, inspect &repair culverts, drains & water bars (mld-Sept-mid Oct)
CJ Perform drainage & ditch work to prepare for winter(mid-Sept-mid Oct)
Q Habitat Enhancement -native plant seed ina/planting (October)
Weed abatement and pruning activities must not occur In known or potential locations of rare
plant or animal species except under the direction of the Open Space Superintendent
Final March 2001
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program 6-1q
Trail Maintenance Programs
. Final
shows those existing trails that are recommended for abandonment. These sites are
to be restored to blend with the surrounding area. The implementation program
provided below in Section 6.4 Trail Upgrade and Restoration Projects is correlated to
Maps 4, 10 and 11. Providing recommendations for trail work on a segment by
segment basis will allow staff to plan future trail maintenance projects, taking into
account the differing types of maintenance tasks involved in upgrading the existing
trail system.
6.4 Trail Implementation Programs by Tiered Classification
Overview
Generally the High Maintenance trail system, which is to be oriented toward year-
round use, is located on the northern two-thirds of the Preserve closest to the parking
lot. The back one-third of the Preserve will typically receive a Moderate Level of
maintenance and most of the trails will be limited to seasonal use.
Following is a breakdown of each trail section and recommendations for trail
construction, rerouting, maintenance and restoration work. This discussion of
recommended trail improvement projects correlates to Map 10 Implementation
Program -High Maintenance Trails and Moderate Maintenance Trails and Table 4 -
Trail Assessment -Summary of the Proposed Trail System. Map 10 delineates the
proposed trails plan (Refer to Map 9) in a series of workable trail segments. Table 4 -
Trail Assessment Summary identifies the existing trail conditions for the proposed
trail system according to the segments shown on Map 10.
Table 5 -Trail Implementation Program -Recommended Capital Improvements,
Table 6 -Trail Implementation Program -Recommended Annual Maintenance Tasks
and Table 7 -Trail Implementation Program -Recommended Cyclical Maintenance
Improvements provide summaries of recommended actions. These tables are
provided at the end of this section. Map 11 -Implementation Program -Trail Routes
that are to be Closed or Rerouted to Protect Resources identifies those trails are
proposed to be closed and the sites restored to reflect the adjacent conditions.
Descriptions of recommended actions for each segment are then linked to Section 7.
Section 7 provides figures and text describing zp.anagement guidelines and
construction techniques for a variety of trail conditions.
The maintenance program provided in this section is not all inclusive of every
construction, rerouting, maintenance and restoration task that may be required for
every trail in the Preserve. Howevet, it does provide prototype solutions for a wide'
variety of trail conditions. These solutions can then be applied, as appropriate, to
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Programs
March 2001
6-+1
/ / .":,l
,: > .ARA'STRADERO'
. ,-,,······:.MAP 10 THE TRAILS
;::::':IMPLEMENTATION
'<'PROGRAM:
-,.-.
........ "''\
" " HIGH & MODERATE
"MAINTENANCE TR , ,"
/.'.,//:/.. ; (,.::{:;'::::<»h \
/ / '.. \ FINAL I! i ::2':( '.,J MARCH 2001( !
/.'-',::<-;;, " ,;",6-12 /
' .... r
",
~:;
.' ~~!
.~--'
,/ , , (":: ~.//
i .'
-.-~ .. ,;; /
\ ,'" ;"
/)/ //
j\j(
" f / ./
'. /' / / f ' .. , .. ":'/ :'
LEGEND TRAIL IMPLENTATIONPROGRAM: HIGH LEVEL & MODERATE LEVEL MAINTENANCE TRAILS
ROUND RECREATION" MAINTENANCE -........ BOUNDARY LINES ~ MAINTENANCE ACCESS TRAIL-YEAR ........ ...;..
ACCESS (HIGH LEVEL MAINTENANCE 10' WIDE) --,
MAINTENANCE ACCESS TRAIL -WINTER CREEK! DRAIN AGE
......... .,.,' RECREATION ACCESS FOR HIKERS ONLY .-""""-... J"""-(HIGH LEVEL MAINTENANCE 10' WIDE) (MeL1l--.· CONTOUR LINES
......, ~ RECREATION TRAIL -YEAR ' / ''-,
~ , ROUND ACCESS ~ .
,_ "' .... _-" (HIGH LEVEL MAINTENANCE 4'·6' WIDE), ,....---... ROAD
......, RECREATIONTRAIL-SEASONALACCESS .7:·:7}j77~·~-"?/~-·~· '--' .
.......... __ ... .., .......... ___ ........ (MODERATE LEVEL MAINTENANCE 4' WIDE) <<</y// ij.....01 PRIVATE PROPERTY
.... ...,' .i MAINTENANCE ACCESS TRAIL· MAINTENANCE " _ ~.(.{/
""',-""-"" ~~~~-rl6~U~~~~1tCCESS" SEASONAL HIGH, MODERATE, LOW ~ 'wI~. TRAILS TO BE ABANDONED" RESTORED ENVIRONMENTAL CONSTRAINTS ~ . TO PROTECT RESOURCES (SEE MAP #11) (SEE MAPS 5,6" 7)
• SEGMENT END
, •....
Table 4 Trail A$sessment -Summary of the Proposed Trail System
Segment Trail Segment Description #
High Maintenance Trails
Acom Trail-Ac1 Arastradero Creek
Segment 1 Trail to Juan
Bautista de Anza
Trail
Acom Trail -Ac2 Juan Bautista de
Segment 2 Anza Trail to Bay
Leaf Trail
Acom Trail-Ac3 Bay Leaf Trail to
Segment 3 Arastradero Creek
Trail
Arastradero Creek ArC1 Juan Bautista de Trail" Segment 1 Anza Trail to
Arastradero Creek
Trail-Segment 2
Arastradero Creek ArC2 Arastradero Creek
Trail-Segment 2 Trail-Segment 1
(at Lake) to South
Terminus of Acorn
Trail
Arastradero Creek ArC3 South Terminus of
Trail-Segment 3 Acom Trail to
Foohills Park
Boundary
Corte Madre Trail CM1 Arastradero
Segment 1 Creek Trail
@Arastradero
Lake across bridge
&top of Dam & to
Corte Madera 2
Final
Arasterdero Preserve Trails rv1anagement Program
Trail Maintenance Programs
Trail
Length
954 LF
1666 LF
1512 LF
1072 LF
3607 LF
2797 LF
405 LF
Ex. Trail Ex. Trail Accessibility/ DIfficulty Trail Deficiency Width
Surface Stability Barriers to Access Max. Gradel Entrenched! Drainage Poor Sight
Length Eroded Unes
Compacted
10'+/-aggregate, loose Steep section of
gravels -trail > 15% • •
unstable surface
Greater than
4 Ft. Native Soil • •
.
native soil, loose
4 ft material across Narrow width •
culverts
Native Soil & Uneven, width >12%
.....
4'+/-concrete pavers surface, Steep (portion) section of trail
Compacted 1 short
10'+/-engineered Steep section of section • •
aggregate base trail >12%
Compacted Trail subject to 10'+/-engineered •
aggregate base flooding
10'+/-compacted
engineered fill
Ex.
Environmental
Constraints
Serpentine soils
Wet soils &
Serpentine soils
Riparian habitat
Riparian habitat
March 2001
6 -13
Table 4 Trail Assessment· Summary of the Proposed Trail System (continued)
Trail Segment segment Description #
East Preserve
Perimeter
Corte Madre Trail-Boundary to
segment 2 CM2 Arastradero Lake
Gateway Tran -Ga1
segment 1
Parking Lot to
Gate A
Gateway Trail -Ga2 Parking Lot to segment 2 Arastradero
Road/Portola
Pastures Access
Road
Juan Bautista de JB1
Anza National
Historic Trail -Arastradero Road
Segment 1 to Gate A
Juan Bautista de JB2
Anza National
Historic Trail-Gate A to
Segment 2 Arastradero Creek
Trail
Juan Bautista de JB3
Anza National Arastradero Creek
Historic Trail· Trail to jet. of
Segment 3 Juan Bautista de
Anza Trail-Seg. 4
& Portola Pastures
Trail
Final
Arasterdero Preserve Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Programs
Trail
Length
1724 LF
995 LF
1632 LF
752 LF
1115 LF
540 LF
-..
Ex. Trail Ex. Trail Accesslbllltyl Difficulty Trail ~clency Width
Surfaca Stability Barriers to Access Max. Gradel Entrenched! Drainage Poor Sight
Lenath Eroded Lines
10'+/-deteriorated >15% asphalt road
native soil, uneven surface at • at
6'+1-uneven surface road edge, log 9% • Arastradero
along trail barriers Rd.
.
NA, new trail
construction native soil wet soils • to avoid wet
soils
NA, new trail
construction
to avoid wet
soils
Compaeted Raised manholes in
10'-12' native soil trail tread create a
tipping hazard
> 15% near
<4' Wet, eroded Trail steep & jet. with • • natiVe soils narrow Arastradero
Creek Trail
Ex.
Envi(onmental
Constraints
Safety of
Arastradero Rd.
Wetland area
Riparian &
wetland areas &
saftey accessing
Arastradero Rd.
Wet & Serpentine
soils
March 2001
6 -14
Table 4 Trail Assessment -Summary of the Proposed Trail System (continued)
Segment Trail Segment Description #
Juan Bautista de JB4
Anza National Portola Pastures
Historic Trail-" Trail to Acom Trail
Segment 4
Juan Bautista de JB5
Anza National Acom Trail to
Historic Trail-Woodland Trail
Segment 5
Juan Bautista de J,B6 Woodland Trail to
Anza National West Preserve
Historic Trail-Perimeter
Segment 6 Boundary
Meadowlark Trail MeL1
Segment 1 GateCtoO~
Trail
North Perimeter f\P
Trail Gateway Trail to
Stanford Pastures
Trail
Portola Pastures ' PP1
Trail-Segment 1 Portola Pastures
Access Road to
Portola Pastures
Segment 2
Portola Pastures PP2
Trail-Segment 2 Portola Pastures
Segment 2 to
Juan Bautista de
Anza Trail
Stanford Pastures S' Parking Lot to
Trail Preserve, Boundary
with Stanford
Lands
Rnal
Arasterdero Preserve Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Programs
Trail
Length
2268
LF
1079 LF
1542 LF
3710 LF
3608 LF
365 LF
1016 LF
1773 LF
Ex. Trail Ex. Trail Accesslbilltyl DIfficulty Trail Deficiency Width
Surface Stability Barriers to Access Max. Gradel Entrenched! Drainage Poor Sight
Length Eroded Unes
<4' Native soil •
Compacted
10'+/-engineered road
bed
<4' Native soil Trail narrow, Wet
soils
. • •
Compacted Trail steep, loose 10'+/-engineered road • •
bed rock & deep gullies
Trail narrow, steep
<4' Native soil & impacted by disk >12% •
lines
New Trail New alignment Poor soils & steep
Construction slopes on new
to minimize will still req. al!gnment will req. •
travel on wet crossing clay switchbacks &
soils soils stabilizers
,
Trail narrow &
<4' Native soil invasive thistles
limit accessiblity
10'+/-Native soil Trail narrow, steep > 15%
Ex.
Environmental
Constraints
Riparian area &
safley accessing
Arastradero Rd.
Wet soils &
riparian area
Riparian area &
safley acceSSing
Arastradero Rd.
March 2001
6 -15
Table 4 Trail Assessment -Summary of the Proposed Trail System (continued)
Segment Trail Segment Description ,
Moderate Maintenance Trail
Bay Leaf Trail BaL1
Segment 1 Acorn Trail to
Meadowlark Trail
Bay Leaf Trail BaL2
Meadowlark Trail Segment 2
to Woodland Trail
Bay View Trail BV Juan Bautista de
Anza Trail to
Corte Madera
Bowl Loop Trail BL
Meadowlark Trail
to Oak Trail
Inspiration Point p Spur oil
Trail Meadowlark Trail
Near Old Bam Site
Meadowlark Trail MeL2 . Oak Trail to Bay Segment 2 Leaf Trail
Oak Trail Ql. Meadowlark Trail
to Arasterdero
Creek Trail
Woodland Trail Wo1 Jet. Juan Bautista
Segment 1 de Anza Trail Seg,
5 & 6 to Bay Leaf
Trail
Woodland Trail Wo2
Segment 2 . Bay Leaf Trail to
Meadowlark Trail
Anal
Arasterdero Preserve Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Programs
Trail
Length
676 LF
826 LF
1510 LF
7399 LF
550 LF
4586 LF
1804 LF
1478 LF
1671 LF
Ex. Trail Ex. Trail Accesslbilityl Difficulty Trail DefIciency WIdth
Surface Stability Baniers to Access Max. Gradel Entrenched! Drainage Poor Sight
Length Eroded Unes
<4' Native soil Trail narrow •
Trail narrow & <4' Native soil edge drops off •
.
<4' Native soil Trail narrow, steep > 15% • •
<4' Native soil Trails narrow, >15%
steep (portions)
<4' Native soil
<4' Native soil Trail narrow, steep > 15% • , ~ .. ,
<4' Native soil Trail narrow, steep, >24% slippery surface
Compacted
10'+/-engineered road
bed
Trail narrow, steep,
<4' Native soil cross drainage & >12% • • • seasonal flooding
Ex.
Environmental
Constraints
Riparian Habitat
Wetland at base
of "bowl", native
grasslands
Edge of Woodland
Riparian habitat
Riparian habitat
March 2001
6 -16
Final
provide a comprehensive system of care for the entire trail system. It should be noted
that the trail distances and location of required remedial work provided in this section
are approximate and should be verified prior to finalizing construction estimates for
future trail work.
~ligh Maintenance Trail Construction, Rerouting,and Maintenance
Recommendations
Acorn Trail· Segment 1 (Act)
Description: Arastradero Creek Segment 2 Trail to Juan Bautista de Anza Trail jct.
with Segment 4 and 5
Pr<wosed Trail Type: Maintenance Access Trail, Year-round Use
Proposed Trail Width/Surface Treatment: Compacted aggregate trail tread, 10 feet
wide
Trail Length: 954 linear feet
Recommended Maintenance!DeyelQPment Program :
o Coordinate with the Utility Department to ensure that existing trails within
utility corridors are maintained for year-round use by:
• Maintaining the existing compacted aggregate trail tread to provide a
firm and stable surface and/or consider surfacing the trail with a
hardening solution to improve the frrmness and stability of the surface if
the soils are limiting year-round use. The hardener should have a natural
appearance and no water quality impacts. Refer to Table 8 -Trail
Surface Synopsis for tread surfacing options.
• Correcting the steep portion of road that is deeply gullied by
incorporating water dips every 50 feet to downhill side of slope to divert
water and prevent further gUllying of road.
• Maintain existing vehicle turn around at booster pump station. Refer to
Map 4 -Fire Protection & Emergency & Maintenance Access -Tum -
around Point 3.
For Guidelines on Performing the Recommended Actions Refer to Sections:
6.2 The Trail Maintenance System -High Maintenance Trails
7.2 Improving Access and Accessibility -Accommodating Utility Vehicles
Acorn Trail· Segment 2 (Ac2)
Description: Juan Bautista de Anza Trail jct. 4 and 5 to Bay Leaf Trail Segment 1
Proposed Trail Type: Recreation Trail, Year-round use
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Programs
March 2001
6:~17
Final
Proposed Trail WidtblSurface Treatment: Cleared! Compacted Native Soil, 4 feet
wide
Trail Length: 1666 linear feet
Recommended MaintenancelDevelQpment Program :
o Maintain trail to uniform width of 4 feet. Surface to be cleared, compacted
native soil in accordance with recommended guidelines in Section 73 Trail
Tread Construction Techniques.
o Correct any drainage deficiencies that are impacting the structural integrity
of the trail tread.
o Monitor soils during first winter season to evaluate year-round accessibility.
Consider installing soil hardeners if trails become impassible during winter
months. Refer to Table 8 -Trail Suiface Synopsis for tread surfacing options.
Mow both trail shoulders between the Juan Bautista de Anza National
Historic Trail Segment 5 and the Acorn Trail Segment 3 to provide an overall
width of 10 feet to accommodate emergency vehicle access. Maintain a
minimum cover of two inches to minimize potential erosion impacts.
o Perform annual vegetative clearing and brushing to maintain a uniform 4-
foot wide trail tread in accordance with recommended guidelines in Section
6.2 and Section 7.5.
Incorporate management strategies as necessary to control weeds and
invasive non-native plant species along the new trail alignment in accordance
with the Arastradero Preserve Management Plan objectives and Section 7.5.
For Guidelines on Performing the RecOmmended Actions Refer to Sections:
6.2 The Trail Maintenance System -High Maintenance Trails
7.3 Trail Tread Construction Techniques
7.4 Grading and Drainage
7.5 Vegetation Management -Techniques for Maintaining a Clear Passageway
Acorn Trail· Segment 3 (Ac3)
Description: Bay Leaf Trail Segment 1 to jct. of Arastradero Creek Trail Segments 2
and 3
Proposed Trail Type: Recreation Trail, Year-round Use
Proposed Trail Width/Surface Treatment: Compacted Native Soil, 4 feet wide
Trail Length: 1512 linear feet
Recommended Maintenance/Development Program :
o Monitor ~d evaluate structural integrity of trail tread after the first winter
rains for potential erosion. Potential areas to be monitored include:
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Programs
March 2001
6"'!18
Final
• Where trail cut slope is vertical and starting to sluff, the slope may need
to be feathered back at a 2: 1 minimum slope
• Fill sections of the trail where trail tread does not appear to have been
compacted to 95%. If signs of sloughing appear, remove excess material
and recompact tread surface to 95%.
o Correct drainage at junction of Arastradero Creek Trail ~o that Acorn Trail
will drain into the drainage ditch that parallels Arastradero Creek Trail. This
work should be done as part of the Arastradero Creek Trail utility
maintenance access improvements.
o Remove existing tread overlaying both the culverts on this trail segment and
replace with a sub-base of compacted aggregate and overlay with native soil.
Compact sub-base and tread to 95%. Repair trail edging defming the trail
tread over the culverts to eliminate tripping hazard and to provide a more
finished look.
o After first year; once trail tread has been stabilized, perform annual
vegetative clearing and brushing to maintain a uniform 4-foot wide trail tread
in accordance with recommended guidelines in Section 6.2 and Section 7.5.
Special vegetation management techniques may be required to control poison
oak along this trail segment.
For guidelines on Performing the Recommended Actions Refer to Sections:
6.2 The Trail Maintenance System -High Maintenance Trails
7.3 Trail Tread Construction Techniques
7.4 Grading and Drainage-Culverts
7.5 Vegetation Management -Techniques for Maintaining a'Clear Passageway
Arastradero Creek Trail Segment 1 (ArCl)
Description: Juan Bautista de Anza Trail Segment 3 to jct. of Arastradero Creek
Trail Segment 3 and Corte Madera Trail Segment 1
PrQPosed Trail Type: Recreation Trail, Year-round Use (Part of future regional Bay
to Ridge Trail)
PrQPosed Trail WidthlSurface Treatment: Concrete Pavers with Aggregate sub-base,
fill (in cells) and top dressing, 6 feet wide
Trail Length: 1072 linear feet
Recommended Maintenance!Developmeut Program:
Southerly portion of trail segment shows indicators of soil creep, including clay soils,
soil moisture and plant indicators for wet areas. Cross slope immediately adjacent to
the trail is ge~tle enough that there is no clear evidence of current movement at this
point. These physical soil characteristics create a need for on-going monitoring and
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Programs
Final
maintenance of this trail section, even though a high cost solution was provided for
the trail tread.
CJ Retain concrete pavers on southern section of trail as a solution for wet soils,
but perform corrective action to eliminate tripping hazard as follows:
CJ
• Remove steel rebar ties where they are exposed and create a tripping
h~ard.
• ADnually overlay exposed sections of block with a compacted aggregate
base rock top dressing. Refer to Table 8 -Trail SUiface Synopsis.
• Remove concrete pavers where uplifting is creating an uneven surface.
Repair sub-base and relay pavers. Refill cells and replace top dressing
with aggregate base rock. Compact to 95%.
Narrow northerly portions of trail in serpentine area that has been widened
by bicyclists riding on the upslope and define a uniform 6-foot wide tread in
accordance with recommended guidelines in Section 7.3 Trail Tread
Construction Techniques and:
• Provide dmin dip in trail southerly of the eroded, serpentine area.
• Install an erosion blanket up slope of the trail within the eroded area.
Erosion control blanket should be of a variety that will not damage or
inhibit the growth of the native grasses and serpentine plants that can be
found in this area.
• Place logs along inside edge of the trail tread at the base of the slope to
deter further activity on the slope by mountain bicyclists.
New trail construction. Reroute the trail near the junction of the Juan Bautista
de Anza Trail Segment 3to reduce trail steepness to lessen slope
susceptibility to erosion and to improve accessibility. Flag new trail
alignment as follows:
• Survey the portion of the trail that will follow a new alignment for
sensitive plant species before initiating construction following
procedures in Section 7.5 -Vegetation Management, Revegetation
Techniques to Restore and Enhance Trail Edges and Former Trail
Alignments.
• Route trail between the wooden bridge and the junction of the Juan
Bautista de Anza Trail to minimize impacts to wetland and serpentine
areas. Try to maintain a maximum gradient of 8% and a uniform trail
width of 6 feet.
• Once trail tread alignment and width have been delineated, harden the
entire trail segment with a sub-baSe that includes mter fabric and
concrete pavers. Fill cells and provide a top dressing of aggregate base
rock. Define trail edge with bender board to contain base rock. Compact
top dressing to 95%.
Conduct a pre-construction biological survey for sensitive bird and animal
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Programs
March 2001
6"1 20
Final
species to ensure compliance with state and federal law (California
Environmental Quality Act, California Department of Fish and Game Code,
Migratory Bird Treaty Act, state and federal Endangered Species Act).
[J Close and abandon the existing alignment located within the environmentally
sensitive serpentine soils located between the Arastradero Creek Trail and
the Portola Pastures Trail route in accordance with the guidelines in Section
6.5 Trail Routes that are to be Closed or Rerouted to Protect Resources -
Trail Route K.
[J Do not perform restorative work while any sensitive bird or animal species
are nesting or breeding in a location where they could be directly impacted
by the construction work.
[J During trail construction in serpentine areas use appropriate dust control
measures to prevent (unconfirmed) hazards of inhaling chrysotile asbesto..s
fibers.
[J After side slopes have been stabilized for one year, perform annual
vegetative clearing and brushing to maintain a uniform 6-foot wide trail tread
in accordance with recommended guidelines in Section 6.2 and Section 7.5.
Cl Incorporate management strategies as necessary to control weeds and
invasive non-native plant species along the new trail alignment in accordance
with the Arastradero Preserve Management Plan objectives and Section 7.5.
Special care must be taken to avoid any impact to sensitive serpentine and
wetland plants.
For Guidelines on Performing the Recommended Actions Refer to Sections:
6.2 The Trail Maintenance System -High Maintenance Trails
7.2 Improving Access and Accessibility -Promoting Accessibility
7.3 Trail Tread Construction Techniques -Wet Soils
7.4 Grading and Drainage -Drain Drips or Drainage Swales
7.5. Vegetation Management-Techniques for Maintaining a Clear Passageway &
Revegetation Techniques to Restore and Enhance Trail Edges and Former
Trail Alignments
Arastradero Creek Trail -Segment 2 (ArC2)
Description: North Terminus of Acorn Trail Segment Ito South Terminus of Acorn
Trail Segment 3
Proposed Trail Type: Maintenance Access Trail, Year-round Use (part of future
regional Bay to Ridge Trail)
Proposed Trail WidtblSurface j'reatment: Compacted aggregate sub-base with
hardened, "natural appearing" tread surface material, 10 feet wide
Trail Length: 3607 linear feet
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Programs
Final
Recommended Maintenance!Deyelopment Program:
D Coordinate with the Utility Department to ensure that existing trails within
utility corridors are maintained for year-round use by:
• Surfacing the compacted aggregate sub-base with hardened "natural
appearing" tread surface material that will improve the fIrmness aJ,ld
stability ofthe surface. Any hardening agents that are used on the.
Preserve shall be assessed for potential impacts to water quality, and no
agent shall be used which could result in physical or reproductive harm
to wildlife.
• Correcting gullying by improving existing drainage structures along toe
of slope/inside road edge by defIning and lining the roadside ditch and
installing culverts or drain dips to divert water from channel where
gullying is occurring
• Providing drain dips to dissipate water runoff from the adjacent drainage
ditch. Where drain dips are used to cross the roadbed, compare the
benefIts and limitations of continuing with the designated trail hardening
material versus paving with other materials to increase the life of these
drainage structure (Refer to Table 8 -Trail Surface Synopsis).
• Maintaining the existing vehicle tUrn-around at booster pump station. No
additional grading or vegetation removal should be performed to enlarge
this turn-around~ Refer to Map 4 -Fire Protection & Emergency &
Maintenance Access -Tum-around Point 3.
.• Providing a new vehicle turn-around in a hammerhead confIguration near
intersection of former Acorn Trail (now Route F, which is scheduled for
closure) to accommodate Type 3 and 4 emergency fIre vehicles. The
turn around area should be defIned using the following: grading a level
area and landscaping. Such vegetation should consist of native species,
similar to nearby, existing vegetation and should be placed in a natural
confIguration to prevent the vegetation from creating an unsafe condition
or adverse visual impact. The fInal siting of the turn around should be
completed under the advisement of the Open Space Superintendent.
Refer to Map 4 -Fire Protection & Emergency & Maintenance Access -
Tum-around Point 5.
• Retaining existing wood rail fence along creekside of trail edge on the
steep slope to keep vehicles from widening the trail in this section.
For Guidelines on Performin~ the Recommended Actions Refer to Sections:
·6.2 The Trail Maintenance System -High Maintenance Trails
7.2 Improving Access and Accessibility -Accommodating Utility Vehicles
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Programs
Arastradero Creek Trail· Segment 3 (ArC3)
Description: South Terminus of Acorn Trail to Foothills Park Boundary (Gate D)
Proposed Trail Type: Maintenance Access Trail, Year-round maintenance and hiking
access, Seasonal biking and equestrian use (Part of future regional Bay to Ridge
Trail)
Proposed Trail WidthlSurfl:\ce Treatment: Compacted aggregate sub-base with
hardened "natural appearin~" tread surface material
and concrete drainage crossings, 10 feet wide
Trail Length: 2797 linear feet
Recommended MaintenanceJDeyelopment Program:
r:J Coordinate with the Utility Department to ensure that existing trails within
utility corridors are maintained for year-round use. To ensure that
maintenance along this trail is done under the guidance or with
recommendations from professional field biologist. Anticipated trail
maintenance aetivities for this trail segment include:
• Surfacing the compacted aggregate sub-base with hardened "natural
appearing" tread surface material that will improve the firmness and
stability of the surface. Any hardening agents that are used on the
Preserve shall be assessed for potential impacts to water quality, and no
agent shall be used which could result in physical or reproductive harm
to wildlife.
• Correcting gullying by improving existing drainage structures along toe
of slope/inside road edge by defining and lining the roadside ditch and
installing culverts or drain dips to divert water from channel where
gullying is occurring
• Correcting drainage in: area of wet soils/seepage south of Acorn Trail
Segment 3 by improving drainage ditch at the toe of the slope and
culverting under the trai1.below the wet hillside area.
• Providing drain dips to dissipate water runoff from the adjacent drainage
ditch. Where drain dips are used to cross the roadbed, compare the
benefits and limitations of continuing with the designated trail hardening
material versus paving with other materials to increase the life of these
drainage structure (Refer to Table 8 -Trail Surface Synopsis).
• Raising the "wet" area adjacent to Sobey Pond one foot and surfacing the
entire area with a trail surface hardener to increase the life of the roadbed
and reduce siltation into the pond from the existing road (Refer to Table
8.:... Trail Surface Synopsis).
r:J Locate an emergency/maintenance vehicle tum around in a hammerhead
configuration at the existing gate on the east side of the trail. Move the gate
back to accommodate Type 3 and 4 emergency fire vehicles. Improvements
Final March 2001
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program 6-.;z3
Trail Maintenance Programs
Final
to the tum-around area should be confined to the existing, flat graded pad.
Minimize annual pruning to area necessary to provide for vehicle access.
Refer to Map 4 -Fire Protection & Emergency & Maintenance Access -
Tum-around Point 6.
Cl Beginning at junction of tum around and continuing south into Foothills
Park, designate the utility trail as a one-way downhill for routine
maintenance traffic.
Cl . Due to the sensitive nature of this woodland trail alignment an annual
biological survey for sensitive species should be performed during nesting
season priorto: performing annual vegetative clearing OR the annual
brushing and clearing should be completed ,between October I and March
14th. In either case, maintenance along this trail should be done according to
the recommendations of a professional field biologist.
a Do not perform routine maintenance or open trail for public use if any
sensitive species are found to be nesting or breeding in a location where they
could be directly impacted by trail use.
a Perforin annual vegetative clearing and bmshingto maintain a uniform 10-
foot wide trail tread in accordance with recommended gnidelines in Section
6.2 and Section 7.5, except as noted above.
For Guidelines on Performing the Recommended Actions Refer to Sections:
6.2 The Trail Maintenance System -High Maintenance Trails
7.3 Improving Access and Accessibility -Accommodating Utility Vehicles
7.4 Grading and Drainage -Culverts, Drain Drips or Drainage Swales
7.5 Vegetation Management -Techniques for Maintaining a Clear Passageway
Corte Madera Trail-Segment l(CMl)
Description: Arastradero Creek Trail jct. Segments 1 and 2 across the wooden bridge
along the top of Dam to Corte Madera Trail Segment 2 on the east side of the Lake
Proposed Trail Type: Maintenance Access Trail, Year-round Use
PrQPosed Trail Width/Surface Treatment: Cleared, Compacted Native Soil, 10 feet
wide, wooden bridge (existing)
Trail Length: 405 linear feet
Recommended Maintenance!Deyelopment Program:
a Scarify and reseed former trail alignment with appropriate native plants at
junction of Arastradero Creek Trail extending from the west end of the dam
to Arastradero Creek.
a Coordinate future improvements to the surface of the dam with the Public
Works Department to ensure that the integrity of the dam is not altered.
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I:l The Public Works Department should notify the Open Space Division
Superintendent of any dam maintenance activities that could impact
recreational use of the levee.
Install interpretive signage and a 3-foot 6-inch high split rail fence along the
northern perimeter of Arastradero Lake. The purpose of this fence and the
signs is to educate the public about the importance of this lake habitat, the
possible presence of sensitive species, and to discourage dogs using the lake.
I:l Provide an alternative drinking soUrce for dogs to discourage dogs from
using the lake.
I:l Install a new bench under the existing tree along the northeast edge of the
lake. Integrate the placement of the bench with the natural setting where a
view of the lake can be provided. Set the bench back from the trail tread two
feet to accommodate legspace and prevent conflicts with passing tail users.
Provide a clear, graded space adjacent to the bench large enough to
accommodate a bike, wheelchair or stroller.
I:l Following seismic events inspect the bridge to make sure that there has been
no damage. If damage has occurred close bridge until repairs can be made in
order to protect public safety.
For Guidelines on Performing the Recommended Actions Refer to Sections;
6.2 The Trail Maintenance System -High Maintenance Trails
7.2 Improving Access and Accessibility -Accommodating Utility Vehicles
7.5 Vegetation Management -Revegetation Techniques to Restore and Enhance
Trail Edges and Former Trail Alignments
7.6 Trail Signing & Mapping
Corte Madera Trail -Segment 2(CM2)
Description: East Preserve Perimeter Boundary to Arastradero Lake
Proposed Trail Type: Recreation Trail (& mowed ymergency fire access), Year~round
Use
Proposed Trail Width/Surface Treatment: Cleared, Compacted Native Soil, 6 feet
wide
Trail Length: 1724 linear feet
Recommended MaintenancelDevelQP1Ilent Program : o Survey trail alignment for sensitive species before initiating reconstructive
work. o o o
Remove remnants of existing asphalt or chip seal paving.
Regrade trail alignment to narrow trail tread to a uniform width of 6 feet.
Create a 6-foot wide tread by clearing and compacting the native soil tread to
95%.
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o Provide a barrier free, non-vehicular entry with a minimum width of 5 feet at
the Preserve boundary. o Install identity signage at Preserve boundary. o Scarify and seed surplus width of former alignment with native grasses. o Monitor soils during first winter season to evaluate year-round accessibility.
Consider installing soil hardeners ~f trails become impassible during winter
months. Refer to Table 8 -Trail Surface Synopsis for tread surfacing options. o Incorporate management strategies as necessary to control weeds and
invasive non-native plant species along the new trail alignment in accordance
with the Arastradero Preserve Manageme11:t Plan objectives and Section 7.5. o One year after the trail tread and grasses have been established:
• Mow both trail shoulders to provide an overall width of 10 feet to
accommodate emergency vehicles. Maintain a minimum cover of 2
inches to minimize potential erosion impacts
• Mow the area at junction with Bay View Trail to provide room for Type
3 and 4 emergency vehic1e~ to perform a hammer head vehicle tum
around following procedures outlined in Section 7.2. Maintain a
minimum cover of 2 inches to minimize potential erosion 'impacts. Refer
to Map 4 Fire Protection & Emergency & Maintenance Access -Tum
Around Point 4.
[J After the first year, once trail tread has been stabilized, perform annual
vegetative clearing and brushing to maintain a uniform 4-foot wide trail tread
in accordance with recommended guidelines in Section 6.2 and Section 7.5.
For Guidelines on Performin~ the Recommended Actions Refer to Sections:
6.2 The Trail Maintenance System -IDgh Maintenance Trails
7.2 Improving Access and Accessibility-Accommodating Utility Vehicles
7.3 Trail Tread Construction Techniques -Multiple Parallel Trails/Overwide
Trails
7.5 Vegetation Management -Techniques for Maintaining a Clear Passageway &
Revegetation Techniques to Restore and Enhance Trail Edges and Former
Trail Alignments
Gateway Trail· Segment I (Gal)
Description: Parking Lot to Gate A
Proposed Trail Type: Recreation Trail, Year-round Use (Part of future regional Bay
to Ridge Trail)
Proposed Trail Width/Surface Treatment: Compacted Native Soil, 6 feet wide &
Road Crossing
Trail I.&ngth: 995 linear feet
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Recommended MaintenanceIDevelQpment Prowun:
D Improve existing drainage patterns between parking lot and Arastradero
Road to repair existing rilling (small cut in the soil surface caused by mnoff)
by:
• Installing a diversion ditch on the north side of the trail
• Placinga IS" culvert under the trail and extending drainage down to road
• Connecting the trail drainage to the existing roadside drainage ditch.
Improve accessibility between parking lot and Arastradero Road by:
• Cprrecting the existing transitions between the paved edges along
Arastradero Road and the trail so that these two surfaces are flush and
mirror the trail width at a minimum
• Reducing the existing longitudinal gradient to between 5% and 8%
• Removing the existing bollard and narrowing and defming the trail entry
point to 5 feet, reseeding disturbed areas and signing the entry to
discourage unauthorized vehicular entry
• Eliminating any physical obstructions greater than 2" in height along the
primary route of travel
D Monitor soils during first winter season to evaluate year-round accessibility.
Consider insta)li:ng soil hardeners if trails become impassible during winter
months. Refer to Table 8 -Trail Surface Synopsis for tread surfacing options.
[J Maintain the existing trail crosswalk and improve the safety of the
Ara.stradero Road trail crossing by following the guidelines in Section 7.2 -
Improving Access and Accessibility, sub-sections -Accessing the Preserve
and Promoting Accessibility, which include recommendations for:
• Installing adequate· directional, safety and regulatory definitions between
trail.and road system
• Working with the City Transportation Division on additional crosswalk
enhancements that will meet with City standards.
[J Improve accessibility on south side of Arastradero Road by following the
guidelines in Section 7.2 -Improving A,ccess and Accessibility, sub-sections -
Promoting Accessibility and Accommodating Utility Vehicles, which include
recommendations for:
• . Regrading the transition between the road and the trail
• Removing existing wood log barriers
• Providing a 40 to 45 foot "driveway" between Arastradero Road and
Access Gate A to allow a safe pullout for maintenance and emergency
vehicles accessing the Preserve. Design of maintenance drive must take
into account the existing lO-foot wide crossirig over a concrete culvert.
The culvert is located approximately 28 feet from the edge of pavement
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• Consider sutfacing the trail with a hardening solution to improve the
fmnness and stability of the sutface if the soils limit year-round use The
hardener should have a natural appearance and no water quality impacts.
Refer to Table 8 -Trail Surface Synopsis for tread sutfacing options.
• Provide identity signage noting this entry as "Gate A " to expedite
emergency response.
CI Provide signage that clearly identifies the Preserve and designates the
Preserve trail system as a shared use facility that welcomes pedestrians,
equestrians, bicyclists and dogs on leash.
For Guidelines on Performing the Recommended Actions Refer to Sections:
·6.2 The Trail Maintenance System -High Maintenance Trails
7.2 Improving Access and Accessibility -Promoting Accessibility
7.4 Grading and Drainage -Culverts
7.5 Vegetation Management -Techniques for Maintaining a Clear Passageway
& Revegetation Techniques to Restore and Enhance Trail
7.6 Trail Signing & Mapping
Gateway Trail-Segment 2 (Ga2)
Description: Parking Lot to Arastradero Road/Portola Pastures Access Road
Proposed Trail Type: High Maintenance Recreation Trail, year-round use
Proposed Trail WidtblSurface Treatment: Compacted Native Soil, 4 feet wide
Trail Length: 1632 linear feet
Recommended MaintenancelDevelopment Pmaram :
CI Reroute a portion of the trail north of the existing route to avoid the majority
of the wetland area by flagging new trail alignment as follows:
CI
• Beginning at the parking lot reroute trail north of existing alignment
• Provide a small bridge across the drainage approximately 40 feet north of
the stand of baccharis. Height of bridge railings should be a minimum of
4 feet --6 inches. Bridge tread should be a minimum of 6 feet wide with
the structural capacity to accommodate equestrians
• Connect back to the existing trail alignment near the Portola Stables
Drive.
Survey trail alignment for sensitive plant species before initiating
construction following procedures in Section 7.5 -Vegetation Management,
Revegetation Techniques to Restore and Enhance Trail Edges and Former
: Trail Alignments.
Conduct a pre-construction biological survey f?r sensitive bird and animal
species to ensure compliance with state and federal law (California
Environmental Quality Act, California Department ofFish and Game Code,
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Final
Migratory Bird Treaty Act, state and federal Endangered Species Act).
Verify with the California Department of Fish and Game whether a
streambed alteration agreement is necessary for specific restoration activities
that affect the bed or bank of the seasonal drainage once the bridge
placement and design are known.
o Close and abandon the existing alignment in acyordance with the guidelines
in Section 6.5 Trail Routes that are to be Closed or Rerouted to Protect
Resources -Trail Route O.
o Close and abandon the informal access across Arastradero Road once the
improvements have been made to Gateway Trail Segment 2 to improve
equestrian access from the Portola Pastures Stables. Also close existing
alignment located within the environmentally sensitive Arastradero Creek
riparian zone (formerly known as Perimeter Trail). Closures and restoration
work should be performed in accordance with the guidelines in Section 6.5
Trail Routes that are to be Closed or Rerouted to Protect Resources -Trail
Route A. Do 'not reopen the Arastradero Road crossing until; a) a traffic
study has been completed to identify what the crossing improvements will be
needed, and b) all the trail improvements have been constructed for Portola
Pastures Trail Segment 2.
o Do not perform restorative work while any sensitive animal or bird species
are nesting or breeding in a location where they could be directly impacted
by the construction work.
o Create a 4-foot wide tread of cleared, compacted native soil in accordance
with recommended guidelines in Section 7.3 Trail Tread Construction
Techniques.
o Monitor soils during first winter season to evaluate year-round accessibility .
. Consider installing soil hardeners if trails become impassible during winter
months. Refer to Table 8 -Trail Sutface Synopsis for tread surfacing options.
o After the first year, once trail tread has been stabilized, perform annual
vegetative clearing and brushing to maintain a uniform 4-foot wide trail tread
in accordance with recommended guidelines in Section 6.2 and Section 7.5.
o Incorporate management strategies as necessary to control weeds and
invasive non-native plant species along the new trail alignment in accordance
with the Arastradero Preserve Management Plan objectives and Section 7.5.
o Following seismic events inspect the bridge to make sure that there has been
no damage. If damage has occurred close bridge until repairs can be made in
order to protect public safety.
For Guidelines on Perform.in& the Recommended Actions Refer to Sections:
6.2 The Trail Maintenance System-High Maintenance Trails & Trail Routes
that are to be Closed or Rerouted to Protect Resources
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Final
7.2 Improving Access and Accessibility -Promoting Accessibility
7.3 Trail Tread Construction Techniques -Stream Crossings
7.4 Grading and Drainage -Outsloping the Outside Edge of a Trail
7.5 Vegetation Management -Techniques for Maintaining a Clear Passageway
& Revegetation Techniques to Restore and Enhance Trail
Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail -Segment 1 (JBl)
Description: Arastradero Road (Los Altos Hills Town Limit) to Gate A
Proposed Trail Type: Recreation Trail, Year-round Use
Proposed Trail Width/Surface Treatment: Road Crossing with Class llIClass I
Transition into Preserve, Single Span Non-Vehicular Bridge across Creek & Cleared
Compacted Native Soil Trail Tread, 6 Feet Wide Within Preserve
Trail Length: 752 linear feet
Recommended MaintenancelDevelQPment Program:
[J Coordinate with the City Traffic Engineer on developing the design of
crossing of Arastradero Road to provide safe access into the Preserve using
the guidelines in Section 7.2 Improving Access and Accessibility sub-sections
Access Defined and Accessing the Preserve. The design should incorporate:
• The extension of the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail on the
south side of Arastradero Road as it extends into the Town of Los Altos
Hills with the cooperation of the Town of Los Altos Hills
• Signage that' clearly identifies the Preserve and designates the Preserve
trail system as a shared use facility that welcomes pedestrians,
equestrians, bicyclists and dogs on leash
• A barrier free, non-vehicular entry at trailhead
• A posted speed limit for motorists along Arastradero Road in accordance
with the results of the traffic engineering study
• Additional caution signs for motorists at an optimum of 100 feet before
entering the "Preserve Crossing Zone" (speed bumps and/or clatter bars
are not recommended because they pose hazards to bicyclists)
• Warning signs for trail users on the trail at an optimum of 100 feet before
the road crossings
• Bike crossing signs (W791W80) at 'where access is provided to Juan
Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail Segment 1
•
•
A respite on the north side of Arastradero Road for bicyclists to wait for
a safe time to cross the road
Sight lines at the Preserve entry at this point need to be improved by
trimming the vegetation back from the roadway. The sight line distance
should be determined based on the results of a traffic study. Riparian
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Final'
vegetation (willows, cottonwoods) that is removed should be replaced
elsewhere on the drainage.
o New trail construction. Reroute the trail south of the existing route to avoid
the riparian corridor that parallels Arastradero Road area by flagging new
trail alignment as follows:
• Enter the Preserve at the Town of Los Altos Hills boundary and follow
the existing trail alignment west approximately 75 feet
• Cross the creek in an existing clearing between mature willows and oaks.
Install a single span, pre-fabricated bridge of a durable, low maintenance
material that will fit into the natural setting, (e.g. cortan steel). Height of
bridge railings should be a minimum of 4 feet -6 inches. Bridge tread
should be a minimum of 6 feet wide with the structural capacity to
accommodate equestrians
• Trail alignment is to continue in a westerly direction to the junction of
the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail-Segment 2. The trail
should be located outside of the riparian corridor to the north and away
from the wetland area to the south.
o Survey trail alignment for sensitive plant species before initiating
construction following procedures in Section 7.5 -Vegetation Management,
Revegetation Techniques to Restore and Enhance Trail Edges and Former
Trail Alignments.
o Conduct a pre-construction biological survey for sensitive animal or bird
species to ensure compliance with state and federal law (California
Environmental Quality Act, California Department of Fish and Game Code,
Migratory Bird Treaty Act, state and federal Endangered Species Acts).
Verify with the California Department of Fish and Game whether a
Streambed Alteration Agreement is necessary for the creek crossing once the
bridge placement and design are known.
o Close and abandon the existing alignment located within the environmentally
sensitive Arastradero Creek riparian zone adjacent to the road in accordance
with the guidelines in Section 6.5 Trail Routes that are to be Closed or
Rerouted to Protect Resources -Trail Route P.
o Do not perform restorative work while any sensitive animal or bird species
are nesting or breeding in a location where they could be directly impacted
by the construction work.
o Create a 6-foot wide tread of cleared, compacted native soil in accordance
with recommended guidelines in Section 7.3 Trail Tread Construction
Techniques ..
o Monitor soils during first winter season to evaluate year-round accessibility.
Consider installing soil hardeners if trails become impassible during winter
months. Refer to Table 8 -Trail Surface Synopsis for tread surfacing options.
March 2001
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program 6,31
Trail Maintenance Programs
Final
o After first year, once trail tread has been stabilized, perform annual
vegetative clearing and brushing to maintain a uniform 6-foot wide trail tread
in accordance with recommended guidelines in Section 6.2 and Section 7.5.
o Incorporate management strategies as necessary to control weeds and
invasive non-native plant species along the new trail alignment in accordance
with the Arastradero Preserve Management Plan objectives ~d Section 7.5.
o Following seismic events inspect the bridge to make sure that there has been
no damage.· If damage has occurred, close bridge until repairs can be made
in order to protect public safety.
For Guidelines on Ps<rforrning the Recommended Actions Refer to Sections:
6.2 The Trail Maintenance System -High Maintenance Trails
7.3 Trail Tread Construction Techniques -Stream Crossings Wet Soils
7.4 Grading and Drainage -Wet Soils
7.5 Vegetation Management -Techniques for Maintaining a Clear Passageway &
Revegetation Techniques'to Restore and Enhance Trail Eages and Former
Trail Alignments
7.6 Trail Signing & Mapping
Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail -Segment 2 (JB2)
Description: Gate A to Arastradero Creek Trail Segment 1
Proposed Trail Type: Maintenance Access Trail, Year-round use (Part of future
regional Bay to Ridge Trail)
Proposed Trail Width/Surface Treatment: Hardened trail tread, 10 feet wide, concrete
bridge (existing)
Trail Length: 1115 linear feet
RecOmmended MaintenancelDevelopment Program:
o Clarify maintenance responsibilities to ensure that the existing trails within
utility corridors are maintained for year-round use. Currently the Utility
Department uses this trail as a secondary access, but road maintenance
responsibilities have not been clearly articulated."
o Coordinate with the Utility Department to ensure that existing trails within
utility corridors are maintained for year-round use to the highest degree of .
accessibility by:
• Considering surfacing the trail (or at a minimum the utility tum around
area just past the concrete bridge) with a hardening solution to improve
the firmness and stability of the surface if the soils limit year-round
recreation use and maintenance access. The hardener should have a
naturaf appearance and no water quality impacts. Refer to Table 8 -Trail
Surface Synopsis for tread surfacing options.
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•. Regrading areas where utility manholes protrude above grade creating a
tripping hazard. Manhole covers should be flush with the surface of the
trail.
D Develop turn around in a hammerhead configuration so as to accommodate
Type 3 and 4 emergency fire vehicles. Locate on west side of bridge in the
area that is pearly flat and already contains hardened surfaces and non-native
grassland. Avoid nearby riparian habitat and serpentine soils. Refer to Map 4
Fire Protection & Emergency & Maintenance Access -Turn Around Point 2.
D Perform annual vegetative clearing and brushing to maintain a 10-foot wide
trail tread in accordance with recommended guidelines in Section 6.2 and
Section 7.5.
D Following seismic events inspect the bridge to make sure that there has been
no damage. If damage has occurred, close bridge until repairs can be made
in order to protect public safety.
For ~uidelines on performing the recommended actions refer to Sections:
6.2 The Trail Maintenance System -High Maintenance Trails
7.2 Improving Access and Accessibility -Promoting Accessibility &
Accommodating Utility Vehicles
7.5 Vegetation Management -Techniques for Maintaining a Clear Passageway
Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail -Segment 3 (JB3)
Description: Arastradero Creek Trail Segment 1 to Portola Pastures Trail Segment 2
Proposed Trail Type: Recreation Trail, Year-round Use
Proposed Trail WidthlSurface Treatment: Compacted Native Soil, 6 feet wide
Trail Len~th: 540 linear feet
Recommended Maintenance!Development Program:
D New trail construction. Reroute the trail to reduce trail steepness to lessen
slope susceptibility to erosion and to improve accessibility. Flag new trail
alignment as follows:
• Use switchbacks between the Arastradero Creek Trail and the Portola
Pastures Trail to align the trail to avoid wetland and serpentine areas.
Try to maintain a maximum gradient of 8% and a uniform trail width of
6 feet
• At the trail junction with the Portola Pastures Trail join with the existing
alignment of the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail-Segment
4 that continues to the south.
D Survey the portion of the trail that will follow a new alignment for sensitive·
plant species before initiating construction following procedures in Section
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Final
7.5 -Vegetation Management, Revegetation Techniques to Restore and
Enhance Trail Edges and Former Trail Alignments.
o Conduct a pre-construction biological survey for sensitive bird and animal
species to ensure compliance with state and federal law (California
Environmental Quality Act, California Department of Fish and Game Code,
Migratory Bird Treaty Act, state and federal Endangered Species Act).
o During trail construction in serpentine areas use appropriate dust control
measures to prevent (unconfirmed) hazards of inhaling chrysotile asbestos
fibers.
o Close and abandon the existing alignment located within the environmentally
sensitive serpentine soils located between the Arastradero Creek Trail and
the Portola Pastures Trail route in accordance with the guidelines in Section
6.5 Trail Routes that are to be Closed or Rerouted to Protect Resources -
Trail Route K
o Do not perform restorative work while any sensitive animal or bird species
are nesting or breeding in a location where they could be directly impacted
by the construction work.
o Create a 6-foot wide tread of cleared, compacted native soil in accordance
with recommended guidelines in Section 7.3 Trail Tread Construction
Techniques.
o Monitoi' soils during first winter season to evaluate year-round accessibility.
Consider installing soil hardeners if trails become impassible during winter
months. Refer to Table 3 Trail Surface Synopsis for tread surfacing options.
o Incorporate management strategies as necessary to control weeds and
invasive non-native plant species along the new trail alignment in accordance
with the Arastradero Preserve Management Plan objectives and Section 7.5.
o After first year, once trail tread has been stabilized, perform annual
vegetative clearing and brushing to maintain a uniform 6-foot wide trail tread
in accordance with recommended guidelines in Section 6.2 and Section 7.5.
For guidelines on performing the recommended actions refer to Sections:
6.2 The Trail Maintenance System -High Maintenance Trails
7.3 Trail Tread Construction Techniques -Entrenched Trail, Excessive Trail
Grade·
7.4 Grading and Drainage -Wet Soils
7.5 Vegetation Management -Techniques for Maintaining a Clear Passageway &
Revegetation Techniques to Restore and Enhance Trail Edges and Former
Trail Alignments
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Final
Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail-Segment 4 (JB4)
Description: Portola Pastures Trail Segment 2 to Acorn Trail jet. Segment I and 2
Proposed Trail Type: Recreation Trail, Year-round Use
Proposed Trail Width/Surface Treatment: Compacted Native Soil, 6 feet wide
Trail Length: 2268 linear feet
Recommended MaintenancelDevelopment Program:
o Trail should be widened to a uniform width of 6 feet and trail surface should
modified to correct any drainage deficiencies that are impacting the structural
integrity of the trail. Trail tread should be composed of cleared, compacted
native soil in accordance with recommended guidelines in Section 7.3 Trail
Tread Construction Techniques.
o Monitor soils during first winter season to evaluate year-round accessibility.
Consider installing soil hardeners if trails become impassible during winter
months. Refer1:o Table 8 -Trail SurjaceSynopsis for tread s:urfacing options.
o Incorporate management strategies as necessary to control weeds and
invasive non-native plant species along the new trail alignment in accordance
with the A rastradero Preserve Management Plan objectives and Section 7.5.
o One year after the trail tread has been established:
• Mow both trail shoulders between the Portola Pastures Trail Segment 2
and the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail Segment 5 to
provide an overall width of 10 feet to accommodate emergency vehicle
access. Maintain a minimum cover of 2 inches to minimize potential
erosion impacts
• Mow an area near the junction of the Portola Pastures Trail to provide
room for Type 3 and 4 emergency fire vehicles to turn-around following
procedures outlined in Section 7.2. Maintain a minimum cover of 2
inches to minimize potential erosion impacts. Refer to Map 4 Fire
Protection & Emergency & Maintenance Access -Tum Around Point 10.
o After the first year, once trail tread has been stabilized, perform annual
vegetative clearing and brushing to maintain a uniform 6-foot wide trail tread
in accordance with recommended guidelines in Section 6.2 and Section 7.5.
o Install a new bench in a location to take best advantage of the view.
Integrate the placement of the bench with the natural setting where a view of
the lake can be provided. Set the bench back from the trail tread two feet to
accommodate leg space and prevent conflicts with passing tail users. Provide
a clear, graded space adjacent to the bench large enough to accommodate a
bike, wheelchair or stroller.
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For guidelines on performing the recommended actions refer to Sections:
6.2 The Trail Maintenance System -High Maintenance Trails
7.3 Trail Tread Construction Techniques -Entrenched Trail,
7.5 Vegetation Management -Techniques for Maintaining a Clear Passageway &
Revegetation Techniques to Restore and Enhance Trail Edges and Former
Trail Alignments
Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail -Segment 5 (JB5)
Description: Acorn Trail to junction with Woodland Trail Segment l(utility access is
continuous from Gate B to Corte Madera Water Tank)
Proposed Trail Type: Maintenance Access Trail, Year-round Use
Proposed Trail Width/Surface Treatment: Compacted aggregate trail tread, 10 feet
wide
Trail Length: 1079 linear feet
Recommended Maintenance!DeyelQPment Program:
r:J Coordinate with the Utility Department to ensure that existing trails within
utility corridors are maintained for year-round use by:
• Maintain the existing compacted aggregate trail tread to provide a firm
and stable surface and/or consider surfacing the trail a hardening solution
to improve the firmness and stability of the surface if the soils are
limiting year-round use. The hardener should have a natural appearance
and no water quality impacts. Refer.to Table 3 Trail Surface Syrwpsis for
tread surfacing options.
Facilitate maintenance and emergency operations by:
• Developing an emergency Type 3 and 4 vehicle hammerhead turn-
around at the junction with Segment 40f the Juan Bautista de Anza Trail.
Improvements to the area should be confined, to the greatest extend
possible, to the existing graded area at the trail junction. Refer to Map 4 -
Fire Protection & Emergency & Maintenance Access -Tum-around
Point 9.
• Providing a 40 to 45 foot "driveway" between Arastradero Road and
Access Gate B to allow a safe pull out for maintenance and emergency
vehicles accessing the Preserve
• Using a uniform maintenance gate at all major entry points with a
universal locking device to facilitate routine and emergency access into
the Preserve by mUltiple department staff
• Providing a sign identifying this entry as "Gate B" to expedite
emergency response.
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March 2001
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Final
For Guidelines on Performing the Recommended Actions Refer To Sections:
6.2 The Trail Maintenance System -High Maintenance Trails.
7.2 Improving Access and Accessibility -Accommodating Utility Vehicles
Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail-Segment 6 (JB6)
Description: Junction with Woodland Trail Segment 1 to West Preserve Perimeter
Boundary
Proposed Trail Type: High Maintenance Recreation Trail, year-round use
Proposed Trail WidthlSurface Treatment: Cleared Compacted Native Soil Trail, 6
feet wide
Trail Length: 1542 linear feet
Recommended Maintenance!Deyelopment Program:
D Widen the trail to provide a uniform width of 6 feet of compacted native soil
. in accordance with recommended guidelines in Section 7.3 Trail Tread
Construction Techniques.
D Modify drainage to correct wet trail tread where it is impacting the structural
integrity of the trail using the following techniques:
• Build up earthen berm along the southern edge of Arastradero Road
• Install a drainage structure consisting of:· an open ditch at top of road; a
15"diameter black plastic corrugated ctrain pipe approximately 75 feet
long extending from the top of the road down the slope and under the
trail; and a rock energy dissipater at end of pipe.
D Survey the alignment for sensitive plant species before initiating trail
modifications foIl'Owing procedures in Section 7.5 -Vegetation Management,
Revegetation Techniques to Restore and Enhance Trail Edges and Former
Trail Alignments.
D Conduct a pre-construction biological survey for sensitive animal species to
ensure compliance with state and federal law (California Environmental
Quality Act, California Department of Fish and Game Code, Migratory Bird
Treaty Act. state and federal Endangered Species Acts).
D Do not perform restorative work while any sensitive animal species are
nesting, breeding or foraging in a location where they could'be directly
impacted by the construction work.
D . Monitor soils during first winter.season to evaluate year-round accessibility.
Consider installing soil hardeners if trails become impassible during winter
months. Refer to Table 8 -Trail SUiface Synopsis for tread surfacing options.
D After first year, once traft tread has been sta~ilized. perform annual
vegetative dearing and brushing to maintain a uniform 6-foot wide trail tread
in accordance with recommended guidelines in Section 6.2 and Section 7.5.
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March 2001
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Final
o Incorporate management strategies as necessary to control weeds and
invasive non-native plant species along the new trail alignment in accordance
with the Arastradero Preserve Management Plan objectives and Section 7.5.
o Coordinate with the City Traffic Engineer on developing the design of
crossing of Arastradero Road to provide safe access intothe Preserve using
the guidelines in Section 7.2 Improving Access and Accessibility sub-sections
Access Defined and Accessing the Preserve. The design should incorporate:
• The extension of the Juan Bautista de Auza National Historic Trail on the
south side of Arastradero Road as it extends along Arastradero Road into
the Town of Portola Valley with the cooperation of the Town of Portola
Valley. It would be preferable to extend the trail west to the driveway at
the American Institute for Research driveway to create the respite on the
north side of the road, rather than at the Palo Alto City limits.
• Signage that clearly identifies the Preserve and designates the Preserve
trail system as a shared use facility that welcomes pedestrians,
equestrians, biCyclists and dogs on leash
• A barrier free, non-vehicular entry at trailhead
• Adequate directional, safety and regulatory definition between trail and
road system
• Bike Crossing signs (W79/W80)
• A respite on the north sideof Arastradero Road for bicyclists to wait for
a safe time to cross the road
• Major trimming vegetation on the south side of Arastradero Road to
provide adequate sight distance (200 feet minimum).
For Guidelines on Performina the Recommended Actions Refer to Sections:
6.2 The Trail Maintenance System -High Maintenance Trails
7.3 Trail Tread Construction Techniques -Wet Soils
7.4 Grading and Drainage -Culverts
7.5 Vegetation Management -Revegetation Techniques to Restore and Enhance
Trail Edges and Former Trail Alignments
7.6 Trail Signing & Mapping
North Perimeter Trail (NP)
Description: Gateway Trail to Stanford Pastures Trail·
Proposed Trail Type: High Maintenance Recreation Trail, year-round use
Proposed Trail Width/Surface Treatment: Cleared, Compacted Native Soil, 4 feet
wide
Trail Length: 3608 linear feet
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Trail Maintenance Programs
March 2001
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Final
Recommended MaintenancelDeyelopment Program :
o Maintain trail to uniform width of 4 feet of cleared, compacted native soil in
accordance with recommended guidelines in Section 7.3 Trail Tread
Construction Techniques
o Correct any drainage deficiencies that are impacting the structural integrity
of the trail tread
o Realign any portions of the trail that may be impacted by annual disking.
New construction should be in accordance with Section 7.3 Trail Tread
Construction Techniques.
Monitor soils during first winter season to evaluate year-round accessibility.
If trails become impassible during winter months consider either;
• Installing soil hardeners Refer to Table 8 -Trail Surface Synopsis for
tread surfacing option, Or limiting usage of trail to the dry season
• Close and abandon the existing alignment in accordance with Section 6.5
Trail Routes that are to be Closed or Rerouted to Protect Resources -
Trail Route O.
• Perform annual vegetative clearing and brushing to maintain a uniform
4-foot wide trail tread in accordance with recommended guidelines in
Section 6.2 and Section 7.5.
• Incorporate management strategies as necessary to control weeds and
invasive non-pative plant species along the new trail alignment in
accordance with the Arastradero Preserve Management Plan objectives
and Section 7.5.
For Guidelines on Performinll the ReCOmmended Actions Refer to Sections:
6.2 The Trail Maintenance System -High Maintenance Trails
7.3 Trail Tread Construction Techniques
7.4 Grading and Drainage
7.5 Vegetation Management -Techniques for Maintaining a Clear Passageway
Portola Pastures Trail -Segment 1 (PP1)
Description: Portola Pastures Access Road to connect with existing Trail (Portola
Pastures Segment 2 -Former Perimeter Trail to be closed. See discussion of
Segment A)
Proposed Trail Type: Recreation Trail, Year-round Use
PrQPosed Trail WidthlSurface Treatment: Road Crossing, Bridge Crossing &
Cleared, Compacted Native Soil Trail Tread, 4 Feet Wide within the Preserve
Trail Lenllth: 365 linear feet
Arastradero Preserve. Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Programs
March 2001
6~.39
Final
Recommended MaintenancelDevelopment Program:
Cl Providing a crossing at this location will be problematic due to the need to
maintain adequate sight distance at the vertical curve of the road.. Before
determining whether to provide a marked crosswalk at the Portola Pastures
Driveway a complete traffic study including traffic counts, and speed counts
will need to be performed. The design of the crossing will need to follow the
mid-block crosswalk guidelines recently adopted by the City Council.
Cl Development of a future crossing at this location will need to be coordinated
with the City Transportation Division and should take into consideration:
• A posted speed limit for motorists along Arastradero Road in accordance
witq the results of the traffic engineering study
• Additional caution signs for motorists at an optimum of 100 feet before
the crossing (speed bumps and/or clatter bars are not recommended
because they pose hazards to bicyclists)
• Warning signs for trail users on the trail at an optimum of 100 feet before
the road crossings
• . Removing baccharis and the eucalyptus adjacent to the road on Preserve
property to maintain a clear sight distance for 200 feet (or more
depending on the recommendation of a traffic engineering study) where
the trail meets Arastradero Road. Riparian vegetation that is removed to
improve sight distance shall be replaced elsewhere on the stream .
corridor, in the near vicinity, if possible.
• Correcting the existing transitions between the paved edges along
Arastradero Road and the trail so that these two surfaces are flush and
mirror the trail width at a minimum
• Narrowing the public trail entry points to 5 feet and signing the entry to
di~courage unauthorized vehicular entry
Cl Provide a connection from Gateway Trail Segment 2 to Portola Pastures
Drive as part of the crossing improvements.
Cl Provide sign age that clearly identifies the Preserve and designates the
Preserve trail system as a shared use facility that welcomes pedestrians,
equestrians, bicyclists and dogs on leash.
Cl New trail construction. New trail construction up this slope will be
problematic as the proposed route contains an area of Azule Clay Loam on
15 to 30 percent slopes. This soil type is considered to have moderate
limitations for trail development due to the soil's susceptibility to erosion. In
addition, there are seeps in the area above and west of the proposed
connection to Portola Pastures Trail Segment 2 that will need to be avoided.
Taking these constrains into account, reroute the section of the trail between
Arastradero Road and the upslope connection with the existing trail east of
the existing route by flagging new trail alignment as follows:
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Programs
March 2001
6,,40
Filial
.• Cross Arastradero Road at the Portola Pastures drive at a 90° angle
approximately 75 feet west of the Preserve property line
• . Continuing in the same direction, cross the tributary to Arastradero
Creek where impacts to the riparian corridor can be minimized. Span the
tributary with a single span pre-fabricated bridge structure of a durable,
low maintenance material that will fit into the natural setting, (e.g. cortan
steel). Height of bridge railings should be a minimum of 4 feet -6
inches. Bridge tread to be a minimum of 6 feet wide with the structural
capacity to accommodate equestrians
• Continue the new trail up the hill towards the east to meet the existing
trail (formerly known as part of Perimeter Trail) aligning the trail
generally along contours to minimize visual impacts to travelers on
Arastradero Road. Connect with the existing trail between mature oaks
easterly of the upslope drainage area that shows evidence of movement.
• Due to the steepness of the slope (15% -30%) and the erosive soil type
(Azule Clay Loam) reinforce switchbacks using retaining walls at the
comers in accordancewith recommended guidelines in Section 7.3 Trail
Tread Construction Techniques.
• Because of the soils and the anticipated heavy use year-round use by
equestrians on this hillside trail, a hardening solution should be
. considered to improve the firmness and stability of the surface. The
hardener should have a natural appearance, provide adequate traction for
horses and create no water quality impacts. Refer to Table 8 -Trail
Surface Synopsis for tread surfacing options.
o Survey trail alignment for sensitive plant species before initiating
construction following procedures in Section 7.5 -Vegetation Management,
Revegetation Techniques to Restore and Enhance Trail Edges and Former
Trail Alignments.
o Conduct a pre-construction biological survey for sensitive bird and animal
species to ensure compliance with state and federal law (California
Environmental Quality Act, California Department of Fish and Game Code,
Migratory Bird Treaty Act, state and federal Endangered Species Acts).
Once the bridge crossing is designed and located, verify with the California
Department ofFish and Game whether a Streambed Alteration Agreement is
needed.
o Do not perform restorative work while any s(msitive animal or bird species
are nesting or breeding in a location where they could be directly impacted
by the construction work.
o Create a 4-foot wide tread of cleared, compacted native soil in accordance
with recommended guidelines in Section 7.3 Trail Tread Construction
Techniques.
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Programs
March 2001
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Final
o After the first year, once trail tread has been stabilized, perform annual
vegetative clearing and brushing to maintain a uniform 4~foot wide trail tread
in accordance with recommended guidelines in Section 6.2 and Section 7.5.
o Incorporate management strategies as necessary to control weeds and
invasive non-native plant species along the new trail alignment in accordance
with the Arastradero Preserve Management Plan objectiv~s and Section 7.5.
o Following seismic events inspect the bridge to make sure that there has been
no damage. If damage has occurred, close bridge until repairs can be made
in order to protect public safety.
For Guidelines on Performing the Recommended Actions Refer to Sections:
6.2 The Trail Maintenance System -High Maintenance Trails
7.3 Trail Tread Construction Techniques -Stream Crossings, Wet Soils
7.4 Grading and Drainage -Wet Soils
7.5 Vegetation Management -Techniques for Maintaining a Clear Passageway &
Revegetation Techniques to Restore and Enhance Trail Edges and Former
Trail Alignments
7.6 Trail Signing & Mapping
Portola Pastures Trail-Segment 2 (PP2)
Description: Connect with new trail segment (PPl) to Juan Bautista de AnzaTrail
jct. Segments 3 and 4
Proposed Trail Type: Recreation Trail, Year-round Use
Proposed Trail Width/Surface Treatment: Cleared, Compacted Native Soil, 4 feet
wide
Trail Length: 1016 linear feet
Recommended MaintenancelDevelopment Program :
o Maintain trail to prove a uniform width of 4 feet of compacted native soil in
accordance with recommended guidelines in Section 7.3 Trail Tread
Construction Techniques;
o Correct any drainage deficiencies that are impacting the structural integrity
of the trail tread.
o Monitor soils during first winter season to evaluate year~round accessibility.
Consider installing soil hardeners if trails become impassible during winter
months. Refer to Table 8 -Trail Surface Synopsis for tread surfacing options.
o Develop an aggressive weed management strategy as necessary to control
thistles that are encroaching onto the trail. Management strategies should be
in accor~ance with the Arastradero Preserve Management Plan objectives
and Section 7.5.
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Programs
March 2001
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Final
o Perform annual vegetative clearing and brushing to maintain a uniform 4-
foot wide trail tread in accordance with recommended guidelines in Section
6.2 and Section 7.5.
FQr Guidelines on Perfonning the Recommended Actions Refer to Sections:
6.2 The Trail: Maintenance System -High Maintenance Trails
7.3 Trail Tread Construction Techniques
7.4 Grading and Drainage
7.5 Vegetation Management -Techniques for Maintaining a Clear Passageway,
Revegetation Techniques -New Trail Construction
Stanford Pastures Trail (SP)
Description: Parking Lot to Preserve Stanford Lands Boundary
Proposed Trail Type: Recreation Trail, Year-round Use (Part of future regional Bay
to Ridge Trail)
Proposed Trail Width/Surface Treatment: Cleared, Compacted Native Soil, 4-6 feet
wide
Trail Length: 1773 linear feet
Recommended MaintenancelDevelo.;pment Program :
o Provide a barrier free, non-vehicular entry with a minimum width of 5 feet at
the Preserve boundary.
o Install identity signage at Preserve boundary.
o Maintain trail to uniform width of 4 feet of cleared, compacted native soil in
accordance with recommended guidelines in Section 7.3 Trail Tread
Construction Techniques to minimize erosion and impacts to view corridor.
o Correct any drainage deficiencies that are impacting the structural integrity
of the trail tread.
o Monitor soils during first winter season to evaluate year-round accessibility.
"If trails become impassible during winter months consider installing soil
hardeners. Refer to Table 8 -Trail Suiface Synopsis for tread surfacing
options.
o Within the area of scenic impact, consider rerouting the trail when a
connection is opened to Stanford lands. New alignment should follow
contours to minimize visual impacts and steepness of the slope rather than
climbing straight uphill. Use the following procedures:
• Survey the portion of the trail that will follow a new alignment for
sensitive plant species before initiating construction following
procedures in Section 7.5 -Vegetation Management, Revegetation
Techniques to Restore and Enhance Trail Edges and Former Trail
Alignments
Arastraderd Preserve Trails Management Program
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March 2001
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Final
• Conduct a pre-construction biological survey for sensitive animal and
bird species to ensure compliance with state and federal law (California
Environmental Quality Act, California Department of Fish and Game
Code, Migratory Bird Treaty Act, state and federal Endangered Species
Acts)
• Create a 6-foot wide tread of cleared, compacted native soil in
accordance with recommended guidelines in Section 7.3 Trail Tread
Construction Techniques.
o Once new alignment has been completed, close and abandon the existing
alignment in accordance with the guidelines in Section 6.5 Trail Routes that
are to be Closed or Rerouted to Protect Resources Erosive Slopes.
o Do not perform new or restorative work while any sensitive animal or bird
species are nesting or breeding in a location where they could be directly
impacted by the construction work.
o Monitor soils during fIrst winter season to evaluate year-round accessibility.
Consider installing soil hardeners if trails become impassible during winter
months. Refer to Table 3 Trail Surface Synopsis for tread surfacing options.
o One year after the trail tread has been established mow an area near the
boundary of the Preserve to provide room for Type 3 and 4 emergency fIre
vehicles to turn around following procedures outlined in section 7.2.
Maintain a minimum cover of 2 inches to minimize potential erosion
impacts. Refer to Map 4 Fire Protection & Emergency & Maintenance
Access -Turn Around Point 1.
o Incorporate management strategies as necessary to control weeds and
invasive non-native plant species along the trail alignment in accordance
with the Arastradero Preserve Management Plan objectives and Section 7.5.
For Guidelines on Performing the Recommended Actions Refer to Sections:
6.2 The Trail Maintenance System -High Maintenance Trails
7:3 Trail Tread Construction Techniques
7.4 Grading and Drainage
7.5 Vegetation Management -Techniques for Maintaining a Clear Passageway &
Revegetation Techniques to Restore and Enhance Trail Edges and Former
Trail Alignments
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Programs
March 2001
6-~44
Final
Moderate Maintenance Trail Construction, Rerouting, and Maintenance
Recommendations
Bay Leaf Trail Segment 1 (BaLl)
Description: Acorn Trail jct. Segments 2 and 3 to Meadowlark Trail Segment 2
Proposed Trail Type: Recreation Trail, Seasonal use
Proposed Trail Width/Surface Treatment: Cleared, Compacted Native Soil 4 feet
wide
TrailLength: 676 linear feet
Recommended MaintenancelDevelopment Program:
o Maintain trail to uniform width of 4 feet of cleared, compacted native soil in
accordance with recommended guidelines in Section 7.3 Trail Tread
Construction Techniques.
o Correct any drainage deficiencies that are impacting the structural integrity
of the trail tread. This trail segment is susceptible to becoming entrenched as
it crosses the saddle of the slope. Monitor this trail for drainage problems and
. install drain dips as needed.
o Perform annual vegetative clearing and brushing to maintain a uniform 4-
foot wide trail tread in accordance with recommended guidelines in Section
6.2 and Section 7.5.
o Incorporate management strategies as necessary to control weeds and
invasive non-native plant species along the new trail alignment in accordance
with the Arastradero Preserve Management Plan objectives and Section 7.5.
For Guidelines on Performing the Recommended Actions Refer to Sections:
6.2 The Trail Maintenance System -Moderate Maintenance Trails
7.3 Trail Tread Construction Techniques -Entrenched Trail
7.4 Grading and Drainage -Drain Drips or Drainage Swales
7.5 Vegetation Management -Techniques for Maintaining a Clear Passageway
Bay Leaf Trail Segment 2 (BaL2)
Description: Meadowlark Trail jet Segments 1 and 2 to Woodland Trail jct.
Segments 1 and 2
Proposed Trail Type: Recreation Trail, Seasonal use
Proposed Trail Width/Surface Treatment: Cleared, Compacted Native Soil 4 feet
wide
Trail Length: 1510 linear feet
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Programs
March 2001
6~ 45
Final
Recommended Maintenance!Development Program:
d Regrade trail as needed to maintain a uniform width of 4 feet of compacted
native soil in accordance with recommended guidelines in Section 7.3 Trail
Tread Construction Techniques.
D Correct any drainage deficiencies that are being caused by the earthen berms
that have formed along the w~sterly, outside edge of the traiL To correct:
• Remove the berms using:excess materials to fill rills (cuts caused by
water runoff) within the trail tread
• Install drain dips or drain turnouts as needed.
D Due.to the sensitive nature of this trail alignment, perform an annual
biological survey for sensitive species prior to:
• Performing annual vegetative clearing and brushing
• Opening this loop trail to public use.
D Do not perform routine maintenance or open trail for public use if any
sensitive species are found to be nesting or breeding in a location where they
could be directly impacted by trail use.
D Perform annual vegetative clearing and brushing to maintain a uniform 4-
foot wide trail tread in accordance with recommended guidelines in Section
6.2 and Section 7.5.
D Incorporate vegetation management strategies as necessary to control weeds
and invasive non-native plant species along the trail in accordance with the
Arastradero Preserve Management Plan objectives and Section 7.5. Exercise
care in implementing management strategies so as not to impact water
quality of the adjacent creek.
fur Guidelines on Performing the Recommended Actions Refer to Sections:
6.2 The Trail Maintenance System -Moderate Maintenance Trails
7.3 Trail Tread Construction Techniques -Entrenched Trail
7.4 Grading and Drainage -Drain Drips or Drainage Swales
7.5 Vegetation Management -Techniques for Maintaining a Clear Passageway
Bay View Trail (BV)
Description: Juan Bautista de Anza Trail Segment 2 to Corte Madera Trail Segment 2
Proposed Trail Type: Recreation Trail, Seasonal Use
Proposed Trail WidthlSurface Treatment: Cleared, Compacted Native Soil 4 feet
wide
Trail Length: 1510 linear feet
Recommended MaintenancelDeveloprnent Program:
D Maintain trail to uniform width of 4 feet of cleared, compacted native soil in
accordance with recommended guidelines in Section 7.3 Trail Tread
March 2001
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program 6~ 46
Trail Maintenance Programs
Final
Construction Techniques.
o Correct drainage deficiencies that are impacting the structural integrity of the
trail tread. To correct deficiencies use the following trail construction and
trail drainage techniques:
• Create a drain dip across the trail at base of slope near junction with the
Juan Bautista de Anza Trail to correct a seasonal boggy area
• Construct a swale extending from the drain dip in a northeasterly
direction to connect with the existing wetland area. Drainage should be
developed as a broad swale approximately 8" deep
• Develop water bars to divert water approximately every 50 feet on
steeper sections of the trail.
. 0 Conduct a pre-construction biological survey for sensitive plant species
which may occur in the serpentine soils in this area to prevent impacts to the
habitat in accordance with recommended guidelines in Section 7.5
Revegetation Techniques to Restore and Enhance Trail Edges and Former
Trail Alignments.
o During trail construction in serpentine areas use appropriate dust control
measures to prevent (unconfirmed) hazards of inhaling chrysotile asbestos
fibers.
o Perform annual vegetative clearing and brushing to maintain a uniforin 4-
foot wide trail tread in accordance with recommended guidelines in Section
6.2 and Section 7.5.
o Incorporate management strategies as necessary to control weeds and
invasive non-native plant species along the new trail alignment in accordance
with the Arastradero Preserve Management Plan objectives and Section 7.5.
For Guidelines on Performing the Recommended Actions Refer to sections:
6.2 The Trail Maintenance System -Moderate Maintenance Trails
7.3 Trail Tread Construction Techniques -Entrenched Trail
7.4 Grading and Drainage -Drain Drips or Drainage Swales
7.5 Vegetation Management -Techniques for Maintaining a Clear Passageway,
Revegetation Techniques to Restore and Enhance Trail Edges and Former
Trail Alignments
Bowl Loop Trail (BL)
Description: Meadowlark Trail Segment Ito Oak Trail
Proposed Trail Type: Recreation Trail, Seasonal Use
Proposed Trail Width/Surface Treatment: Cleared, Compacted Native Soil 4 feet
wide
Trail Length: 7399 linear feet
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Programs
March 2001
6~ 47
Final
Recommended MaintenancelDevelopment Program:
D· Seasonal ponds, such as.the one found on the Bowl Loop Trail can be
important breeding habitat for amphibians, including the California tiger
salamander (federal candidate for listing, state species of special concern)
The presence of the salamander has not been studied in the Preserve.
Therefore, a biotic survey should be conducted to determine if the pond ("the
Bowl") provides suitable breeding habitat and if the salamander is present
there or in the nearby riparian zone. In any event this trail should be closed
during the. wet season to protect amphibian breeding habitat and wetland
values. The trail should not be opened for public use while any sensitive
species are found to be nesting orbreeding in a location where they could be
directly impacted by trail use.
D Regrade trail segments outside the "bowl" as needed to maintain a uniform
width of4 feet of cleared, compacted native soil in accordance with
recommended. guidelines in Section 7.3 Trail Tread Construction
Techniques.
D Correct any drainage deficiencies that are affecting the structural integrity of
the trail.
D Close the "bowl" at the onset of he rainy season (generally November) and
keep this site closed to public use until it is completely dry.
D Perform annual vegetative clearing and brushing to maintain a uniform 4-
foot wide trail tread in accordance with recommended guidelines in Section
6.2 and Section 7.5 except as noted above.
D Incorporate vegetation management strategies as necessary to control weeds
and invasive non-native plant species along the trail in accordance with the
Arastradero Preserve Management Plan objectives and Section 7.5. Exercise
care in implementing management strategies so that they will not to impact
the seasonal wetland at the bottom of "the Bowl".
For Guidelines on Performing the Recommended Actions Refer to Sections:
6.2 The Trail Maintenance System -Moderate Maintenance Trails
7.3 Trail Tread Construction Techniques
7.4 Grading and Drainage
7.5 Vegetation Management -Techniques for Maintaining a Clear Passageway
Inspiration Point Trail (IP)
Description: Spur off Meadowlark Trail Near Old Barn Site
Proposed Trail Type: Recreation Trail, Seasonal Use
Proposed TrailWidthlSurface Treatment: Cleared, Compacted Native Soil, 4 feet
wide
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Programs
March 2001
6.\48
Final
Trail Length: 550 linear feet
Recommended Maintenance/Development Program :
o Maintain trail to provide a uniform width of 4 feet of compacted native soil
in accordance with recommended guidelines in Section 7.3 Trail Tread
Construction Techniques.
o Correct any drainage deficiencies that are impacting the structural integrity
of the trail tread.
o Incorporate management strategies as necessary to control weeds and
invasive non-native plant species along the new trail alignment in accordance
with the Arastradero Preserve Management Plan objectives and Section 7.5.
o Perform annual vegetative clearing and brushing to maintain a uniform 4-
foot wide trail tread in accordance with recommended guidelines in Section
6.2 and Section 7.5.
o Maintain a bench in a location to take best advantage of the panoramic view.
Set the bench back from the trail tread two feet to accommodate leg space
and prevent conflicts with passing tail users. Provide a clear, graded space
adjacent to the bench large enough to accommodate a bike, wheelchair or
stroller.
For Guidelines on Perfouning the Recommended Actions Refer to Sections:
6.2 The Trail Maintenance System -Moderate Maintenance Trails
7.3 Trail Tread Construction Techniques
7.4 Grading and Drainage
7.5 Vegetation Management -Techniques for Maintaining a Clear Passageway
Meadowlark Trail (MeLt)
Description: Gate C to Oak Trail
Proposed Trail Type: Maintenance Access Trail, hikers and emergency vehicle
access year-round. Routine maintenance access and bike and horse use limited to dry
season
Proposed Trail WidtblSurface Treatment: compacted aggregate trail tread, 10 feet
wide
Trail Length: 3710 linear feet
Recommended Maintenance!DeyelQPment Program:
o Clarify maintenance responsibilities to ensure that this existing trail can
accommodate emergency vehicles year-round. Currently the Fire
Department and the Open Space Division use this trail as a secondary access,
but road maintenance responsibilities have riot Peen clearly articulated.
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Programs
Final
o Coordinate with the Public Works Department to ensure that this
maintenance/emergency access is adequately maintained to service the
southern portion of the Preserve. Level of maintenance service should be for
moderate, seasonal trails (dry season use). Corrective action should include
construction of water dips every 50 feet to downhili side of slope to divert
water and prevent further gullying of the portion of ,road that is deeply
gullied.
o Eliminate narrow, single track volunteer trail located adjacent to the
maintenance/emergency access trail between Gate C and the old barn site by
scarifying and seeding former alignment with native grasses.
o Provide a barrier free, non-vehicular entry adjacent to Vehicle Access "Gate
C" with a minimum width of 5 feet at the Preserve boundary.
o Install identity signage at Preserve boundary.
o Designate the Meadowlark Trail Segment 1 as hiking (including dogs on
leash) and emergency vehicle access only year round.
o Permit routine.patrol and maintenance vehicles and biking and equestrian use
. on a seasonal basis.
o Incorporate management strategies as necessary to control weeds and
invasive non-native plant species along the new trail alignment in accordance
with the Arastradero Preserve Management Plan objectives and Section 7.5.
o Develop a hammerhead vehicle turn around for Type 3 and 4 emergency
vehicles to turn around near the old barn site. Improvements to the turn-
around should be confined to the existing graded pad that formerly served as
the driveway for the old barn. Refer to Map 4 Fire Protection & Emergency
& Maintenance Access -Tum-around Point 7.
For Guidelines on Performing the Recommended Actions Refer to Sections:
6.2 The Trail Maintenance System -Moderate Maintenance Trails
7.2 Improving Access and Accessibility -Accommodating Utility Vehicles
7.5 Vegetation Management -Techniques for Maintaining a Clear Passageway
Meadowlark Trail (MeL2)
Description: Oak Trail to Bay Leaf Trail Segment 2
Proposed Trail Type: Recreation Trail, Seasonal Use
Proposed Trail Width/Surface Treatment: Cleared, Compacted Native Soil, 4 feet
wide
Trail Length: 4586 linear feet
Recommended MaintenancelDevelopment Program:
o Regrade trail to provide a uniform trail width of 4 feet of cleared, compacted
native soil in accordance with recommended guidelines in Section 7.3 Trail
March 2001
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program 6"'1 50
Tr\lil Maintenance Programs
Final
Tread Construction Techniques.
D Correct areas that have become entrenched by incorporating water bars or
drain dips as slope allows approximately every 50 feet to divert water to
downhill side of slope.
D As portions of this trail are located along the eastern edge of a potentially
sepsitive woodland habitat, perform an annual biological survey for sensitive
species prior to:
•. Performing annual vegetative clearing and brushing during the nesting
season
• Opening this loop trail to public use during the nesting season.
D Do not perform routine maintenance or. open trail for public use if any
sensitive species are found to be nesting or breeding in a location where they
could be directly impacted by trail use.
D Perform annual vegetative clearing and brushing to maintain a uniform 4-
fQot wide trail tread in accordance with recommended guidelines in Section
6.2 and Section 7.5, except as noted above.
D Incorporate management strategies as necessary to control weeds and
invasive non-native plant species along the trail alignment in accordance
with the Arastradero Preserve Management Plan objectives and Section 7.5.
D In the future, reevaluate the potential to provide a year round access· route by
realigning the trail to reduce the trail grade to 10% using switchbacks,
incorporating drain dips or water bars as the terrain allows and hardening the
trail surface to minimize potential impacts from erosion. New construction
should be in accordance with the recommended guidelines in Section 7.3
Trail Tread Construction Techniques.
For Guidelines on Performing-the Recommended Actions Refer to Sections:
6.2 The Trail Maintenance System -Moderate Maintenance Trails
7.3 Trail Tread Construction Techniques -Entrenched Trail
7.4 Grading and Drainage -Drain Drips or Drainage Swales
7.5 Vegetation Management -Techniques for Maintaining a Clear Passageway
Oak Trail (Oa)
Description: Meadowlark Trail to Arastradero Creek Trail Segment 3
PrQ,pOsed Trail Type: Recreation Trail, Seasonal Use
Proposed Trail WidthlSurface Treatment: Cleared, Compacted Native Soil, 4 feet
wide
Trail Leng-th: 1804 linear feet
Recommended MaintenancelDeyelQPIDent Prog-ram :
This trail is excessively steep according to factors described in Section 5. The trail
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grade ranges from 12% at top to 24% in middle and 32% at the lower end. Trails this
steer, especially this close to a water source (Arastradero Creek, Sobey Pond) are a
significant source of sedimentation in water bodies as horses loosen soils and bikes
create a channel for carrying water downstream.
D New trail construction alignment. To provide connectivity between the
Arastradero Creek Trail and the Meadowlark Trail reroute lower two-thirds
of the trail to reduce trail steepness and to lessen slope susceptibility to
erosion. Flag new trail alignment as follows:
• Tie lower end of trail into the Arastradero Creek Trail a little north of the
existing trail avoiding a stand of native grasses.
• Develop a new trail just north of the existing alignment incorporating a
series of switchbacks along the south ~ide of the wooded drainage.
• Tie the upper end of the new alignment into the existing trail above the
mature stand of oak trees that are located within the existing trail
alignment.
• Mainta~n the existing alignment where the slope is running between 12%
and 15% and install water bars on upper portion of existing alignment at
close of season.
• Due to the steepness of the terrain and the soil's susceptibility to erosion
in this area, have a soil erosion expert review the flagged alignment and
provide recommendations to prevent erosive damage to slope during and
after the trail construction.
D Once the trail route has been flagged, but prior to constructing the trail:
• Survey the portion of the trail that will follow a new alignment for
sensitive plant species before initiating construction following
procedures in Section 7.5 -VegetationMariagement, Revegetation
Techniques to Restore and Enhance Trail Edges and Former Trail
Alignments. The biological survey needs to occur during the
winter/spring bloom period of the sensitive species that would be
expected in this area.
D Conduct a pre-construction biological survey for sensitive animal and
bird species to ensure compliance with state and federal law (California
Environmental Quality Act, California Department of Fish and Game
Code, Migratory Bird Treaty Act, state and federal Endangered Species
Acts).
D Trail Construction:
• Create a 4-foot wide tread of cleared, compacted native soil in
accordance with recommended guidelines in Section 7.3 Trail Tread
Construction Techniques.
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• Trail construction should not occur in the winter, rainy season as red-
legged frogs (if present in Sobey Pond) can be expected to move into the
grasslands where the trail route is proposed during this season .
. 0 Develop a trail construction and long-term maintenance strategy that takes
into account the presence of large stands of poison oak.
o Close and abandon the existing alignment that is excessively steep, using
"Best Management Practices" in accordance with the Regional Water Quality
non-point source pollution program to keep siltation from entering Sobey
Pond during construction in accordance with the guidelines in Section 6.5
Trail Routes that are to be Closed or Rerouted to Protect Resources -Trail
Route Q.
o Do not perform restorative work while any sensitive animal species are
nesting or breeding in a location where they could be directly impacted by
the construction work.
o Block restoration area from further use and install signs stating "Area
Closed: Habit"t Restoration" at trail junctions of trails leading into the
restoration area. .
o Due to the sensitive nature of this woodland trail alignment. perform an
annual biological survey for sensitive species during nesting periods prior to:
• Performing annual vegetative clearing and brushing
• Opening this loop trail to public use
CJ Do not perform toutine maintenance or open trail for public use if any
sensitive species are found to be nesting in a location where they could be
directly impacted by trail use.
o Perform annual vegetative clearing and brushing to maintain a uniform 4-
foot wide trail tread in accordance with recommended guidelines in Section
6.2 and Section 7.5, except as noted above.
o Incorporate management strategies as necessary to control weeds and
invasive non-native plant species along the new trail alignment in accordance
with the Arastradero Preserve Management Plan objectives and Section 7.5.
For Guidelines on Performing the Recommended Actions Refer to Sections:
6.2 The Trail Maintenance System -Moderate Maintenance Trails
7.3 Trail Tread Construction Techniques -Excessive Trail Grade
7.4 Grading and Drainage -Outsloping the Outside Edge of a Trail & Drain
Drips or Drainage Swales
7.5 Vegetation Management -Techniques for Maintaining a Clear Passageway
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Woodland Trail Segment l(Wol)
Description: Juan Bautista de Anza Trail jct. Segment 5 &Segment 6 to Bay Leaf
Trail Segment 2 (utility access is continuous from Gate B to Corte Madera Water
Tank)
Proposed Trail Type: Maintenance Access Trail, Year~round maintenance access,
Seasonal recreational use,
Proposed Trail Width/Sutface Treatment: Compacted aggregate trail tread, 10 feet
wide
Trail Length: 1478 linear feet
Recommended MaintenancelDeyelopment Program :
o Coordinate with the Utility Department to ensure that existing trails within
utility corridors are maintained for year-round utility use and seasonal
recreational use by:
• Maintaining the existing compacted aggregate trail tread to provide a
fIrm and stable surface
• Maintain existing. paved vehicular turn-around that encircles the water
tank for utility vehicles. Note that this tum-around is not suitable for
Type 3 and 4 fire vehicles due to the tight turning radius around the tank.
Refer to Map 4 -Fire Protection & Emergency & Maintenance Access -
Turn-around Point 8.
• . Remove the existing chainlink gate near the turn that leads up to the tank.
• Remove existing signage that states "no equestrian use allowed"
o Due to the sensitive nature of this woodland trail alignment, perform an
annual biological survey for sensitive species during sensitive nesting, season
prior to:
• Performing annual vegetative clearing and brushing
• Opening this trail to seasonal public use
• Do not perform routine maintenance or open trail for public use if any
sensitive species are found to be nesting or breeding in a location where
they could be directly impacted by trail use
o Perform annual vegetative clearing and brushing to maintain a uniform 10-
foot wide trail tread in accordance with recommended guidelines in Section
6.2 and Section 7.5 except as noted above.
o Close and abandon parallel trails on the opposite side of the creek located
within the environmentally sensitive riparian corridor in accordance with the
guidelines in Section 6.5 Trail Routes that are to be Closed or Rerouted to
Protect Resources -Trail Route B.
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For Guidelines on Performing the Recommended Actions Refer to Sections:
6.2 The Trail Maintenance System -High Maintenance Trails
7.2 Improving Access and Accessibility -Accommodating Utility Vehicles
Woodland Trail Segment 2(Wo2)
Description: Bay Leaf Trail Segment 2 to Meadowlark Trail Segment 1
Proposed Trail Type: Recreation Trail, Seasonal use
Proposed Trail Width/Surface Treatment: Cleared, Compacted Native Soil, 4 feet
wide
Trail LeDf~th: 1671 linear feet
ReCommended MaintenancelDevelopment Program:
o Maintain trail at a uniform width of 4 feet. Tread to be cleared, compacted
native soil and should be maintained in accordance with recommended
guidelines in Section 7.3 Trail Tread Construction Techniques.
o Reroute the upper portion of the trail to: a) avoid a small wetland; b) reduce
trail steepness to lessen slope susceptibility to erosion; and c) modify
drainage to correct trail tread where it is impacting the structural integrity of
the trail. Flag new trail alignment and employ the following techniques as
follows:
., Close and restore upper portion of trail where slope runs at about an 8%
grade through open grassland and small wetland area. In this location
the trail tread has become deeply incised and should be restored in
accordance with the guidelines in Section 6.5 Trail Routes that are to be
Closed or Rerouted to Protect Resources -Correcting Eroded Slopes
• Relocate a 4-foot wide compacted native soil trail within the grassland
area staying east of the standing dead tree
• Where the trail begins to steepen at the edge of the woodland, connect to
the existing trail alignment. Correct trail incisions by incorporating
water dips towards downhill side of slope to divert water
• Where the existing drainage channel runs across the trail tread, create a
low flow drainage across trail and modify lower end of existing channel
to reduce side slopes
• Install a water bar at the junction of the Bay Leaf Trail.
o Do not perform restorative work while any sensitive animal species are
nesting or breeding in a location where they could be directly impacted by
the construction work.
o Incorporate management strategies as necessary to control weeds and
invasive non-native plant species along the new trail alignment in accordance
with the Arastradero Preserve Management Plan objectives and Section 7.5. '
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o Block area restored area from further use and install signs stating "Area
Clo~ed: Habitat Restoration" at the junctions of trails leading into the
restoration area.
For Guidelines on Performing the Recommended Actions Refer to Sections:
6.2 The Trail Maintenance System -Moderate Maintenance Trails
7.3 Trail Tread Construction Techniques
7.4 Grading and Drainage
7.5 Vegetation Management -Techniques for Maintaining a Clear Passageway
6.5 Trails to Be Abandoned & Closed for Restoration
Restoration work should focus on repairing any existing environmental degradation and
trail tread conditions that could fester and cause major problems in the future. In some
cases the trail that is to be abandoned will require extensive work to remedy existing
conditions that are severel~ impacting the terrain, water quality,and/or sensitive habitat.
A trail closure may also .require extensive educational outreach because current use is
quite heavy. In other cases the "trail" may simply be an animal track that has had
minimal impact on the land and may be receiving little use. To address each of these
conditions, this section has been divided into a two tiered strategy for closure: technical
requirements; and educational pnd enforcement requirements (Refer to Map 11 -
Implementation Program -Trail Routes that are to be Closed or Rerouted to Protect
Resources for location of trail closures).
Trail Closures· Technical Requirements
The first tier relates to the technical requirements associated with closing a trail under
differing environmental conditions. This tier is broken down into three categories -
correcting eroded slopes, preparing trails for closure in riparian or wetland areas, and
preparing trails for closure in,serpentine areas. Within the category that defines the
requirements for correcting eroded slopes there are -sub sets with where other factors are
were the guiding factor in determining that a trail route should be rerouted or closed.
These subsets are -providing a privacy buffer, protecting pristine woodlands and
protecting native grass stands.
Correcting Eroded Sites
Few of the trails on the Preserve were originally engineered to withstand continual use
and as a result, the trail tread on many of the trails has eroded and requires corrective
action. In some cases, the closure will only involve rerouting a small portion of a trail to
mitigate a troublesome area. In other cases, an entire segment is recommended for
closure because a superior trail route with a similar experience can be provided and/or
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, /
>' .. ,
\.
;.; .. AFi~~t~AbERO .
:::MAP 11 THE TRAILS.
,<IMPLEMENTATION
\ ">PROGRAM:
;" CLOSED TRAILS ,
FINAL
. / MARCH 2001
: \6-57
LEGEND
~ PROPOSED TRAIL SYSTEM OR ~. # TRAILS ALIGM~NJ~Jr~RED TO PROTECT
LOSED TRAILS TRAIL IMPLEMENTATION PROGRAM~ --...... -.,
' .......... ../--."""" ~~~g~~a~:~.6 MILES
BE CLOSED ./'--, .. ,
•• , .... ,#~ ... ~"' ....... ,d"'./
BOUNDARY LINES
CREEK! DRAINAGE
CONTOUR LINES '"',-~ROAO
'~PRIVATEPROPERTY
. ....... ~
Final
continued use of the trail would require major reconstruction and more ongoing
maintenance. In addition to those trails that have been identified for rerouting or
closure because of erosion problems, there are several trails that are recommended
for closure based on another management goaL These trails should also be closed
using the techniques described for correcting eroded area. These trail conditions are
described below.
• Providing a Privacy Buffer -While these trail segments may include some
rutting and lor erosion, the primary reason for the trail closure is that the trail
directs the public into adjacent private property. These trail segments should
generally be closed in accordance with the techniques used for correcting eroded
slopes, though repair work in some cases may be focussed more on maintaining
boundary fences and perimeter signage than on correcting soil or habitat.
• Protecting Pristine Woodlands -The purpose of this type of trail closure is to
limit access into a natural area that has had little public access in the past. By
limiting access, disturbance, which can result in infestations of non-native,
hivaslve plant speoies that can degrade the quality of the habitat over time, will
be limited. This trail segment should generally be closed in accordance with the
techniques used for correcting eroded slopes, though repair work should be
minimaL
• Protecting Native Grass Stands Relative to most of the grasslands in the bay
area, Arastradero Preserve contains a substantial amount of native bunch grasses.
The existing native grass stands are highly valued as a source of seed and
information about native ecology. The purpose of this type of trail closure is to
limit access into the existing grass stands and thereby limit disturbance, which
can result in infestations of non-native, invasive plant species that can degrade
the quality of the habitat over time. These trail segments should generally be
closed in accordance with the teChniques used for correcting eroded slopes,
though repair work should be minimal.
Typically the work required to prepare an eroded site for abandonment will include
the following procedures:
o Correct wa~r problems caused by water flowing into and down the trail by:
• filling in ruts and gullies with local soils and gravel
• further stabilizing the slope using rocks, erosion cloth, net or other
biodegradable covering agents to impede the speed of water and inhibit
gullying and riling, as directed by an erosion control specialist
• grading the trail bed and adjacent area to return the surface to its original
shape and contour
o Scarify the trail to break up the compacted soils' and allow new vegetation to
grow
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o Reestablish vegetation with native species appropriate to the specific site
using hand collected seed from native plants near the site as appropriate, or
use other methods recommended by a restoration expert or botanist with
expertise in revegetating the species. Seed should be collected prior to
initiating the restoration work and store. Upon completion of the
construction work, the seed should be sown on the site in the fall prior to the
onset of the winter rains, typically late September -October.
o Block area from further use and install signs stating "Area Closed: Habitat
Restoration" at trail junctions leading into the restoration area. In some cases
it may also be prudent to construct some type of temporary fencing to
prevent access.
Erosive Trail Conditions Apply to Trail Segments: D, E, F, G, J, Q, N
PrOyiding a Privacy Buffer Applies to Trail Segments: C, M, H
Protecting Pristine Woodlands Applies to Trail Segment: R (portions).
Protecting Native Grass Stands Applies to Trail Segments: D, Q, R (portions).
For Guidelines on Performing the RecOmmended Actions Refer to Sections:
7.4 Grading and Drainage
7.5 ' Vegetation Management
Preparing Trails for Closure in Riparian or Wetland Areas
Ideally wet areas should be avoided where possible to reduce impacts to water quality
and nesting birds and because trails through wetlands are often muddy and difficult to
use. As a result users try step to the side of the mud and the trail becomes wider,
impacting more of the wetlands. Within the Preserve there are several trails that have
been developed within wetland and riparian areas and lor pass through boggy areas.
To avoid wetland delineation and US Army Corps of Engineers reporting
requirements, the trails plan must impact less than 0.1 acre of wetland and riparian
areas in the Preserve where trail construction and maintenance will Occur. To reduce
further impacts to the wetland and riparian habitats, several trails are recommended
be rerouted or closed.
Typically the work required to prepare a site for abandonment in riparian or wetland
areas will include the following procedures:
o Conduct a pre-construction biological survey for sensitive species to ensure
compliance with state and federal law (California Environmental Quality
, Act, California Department of Fish and Game Code, Migratory Bird Treaty
, Act, State and Federal Endangered Species ACts), In streambed areas, the
construction period is typically April 15 to October 15 when the flow is low.
If rare species are present, the construction period should be modified as
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recommended by a biologist with expertise in the habits of the species. This
may limit the construction period to the post-nesting season, typically late
summer, fall.
o Prior to beginning any restorative corrective work, collect seed from
sensitive plants, if appropriate, or use other methods recommended by a
restoration expert or botanist with expertise in ryvegetating the species.
Conduct the work under permits from the US Flsh and Wildlife Service or
California Department of Fish and Game, if required.
o If the restoration area is located in or adjacent to a streambed environmental
permits may' be required. Verify with the California Department of Fish and
Game if a Streambed Alteration Agreement is necessary for restoration
activities that will affect the bed or bank of the stream.
o Do not perform restorative work while any sensitive species are nesting, or
breeding in a location where they could be directly impacted by the
restoration work.
o Incorporate National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES), a
provision of the Clean Water Act "Best Management Practices" when
closing a trail to prevent soils and other pollutants from entering creeks,
ponds, lakes and springs and degrading water quality. "Best Management
Practices" may include techniques relating to storage (detention), filtration
and infiltration practices. Determination of the most appropriate techniques
will be dependent on the specific conditions of each situation. Typical
construction measures used to prevent soils from entering creeks, ponds,
lakes and springs include: the placement of hay bales or siltation fences
between the construction site and the water body (stream, seasonal drainage
or pond) or diverting the creek water when actually working within the creek
bed. NPDES permits may be required to perform restoration work.
o Scarify the trail to break up the compacted soils, and allow new vegetation to
grow.
o Reestablish vegetation with native species appropriate to the specific site.
o Block area from further use and install signs stating "Area Closed: Habitat
Restoration" at trail junctions leading into the restoration area. In some cases
it may also be prudent to construct some type of temporary fencing to
prevent access.
Riparian or Wetland Trail Conditions Apply to Trail Segments: A, B, 0, P, S
For Guidelines on Performing the Recommended Actions Refer to Sections:
7.4 Grading and Drainage
7.5 Vegetation Management
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Preparing Trails for Closure in Serpentine Areas
There are three areas in the Preserve where serpentine bedrock has been mapped. If
exposed, serpentine bedrock will weather into soils, which are nutrient poor and often
support rare plant and insect species. Because of the sensitive habitat that occurs in
these soils, redundant trails that could result in impacts to this habitat type are
recOIpmended for closure.
TypiCally the work required to prepare a site for abandonment in serpentine areas will
include the following procedures:
D Conduct a pre-construction biological survey for sensitive species to ensure
compliance with state and federal law (California Environmental Quality
Act, California Department of Fish and Game Code, Migratory Bird Treaty
Act, state and federal Endangered Species Acts) prior to commencing
restorative work.
D Flag rare plants and route trails to avoid area.
D Priorto commencing restorative construction work, hand collect seed from
sensitive plants if appropriate, or use other methods recommended by a
restoration expert or botanist with expertise in revegetation of the species.
Conduct the work under permits from the United States Fish and Wildlife
Service or the California Department of Fish and Game, if required.
D Store collected seed from native plants froin the immediate area and store for
later use.
D During trail construction, stockpile native topsoil for reuse in revegetating
areas adjacent to the trail tread.
D Scarify the trail to break up the compacted soils and reseed hand-collected
seed to enlarge population of sensitive plants.
D Block area from further use and install signs stating "Area Closed: Habitat
Restoration" at trails junctions leading into the restoration area. In some
cases it may also be prudent to construct some type of temporary fencing to
prevent access.
Serpentine Areas Apply to Trail Segments: I, K, L, M.
For Guidelines on Performing the Recommended Actions Refer to Sections:
7.4 Grading and Drainage
7.5 Vegetation Management
Trail Closures -Educational and Enforcement Requirements
The second tier relates to the level of education, enforcement, and intensity of
construction that may be required to effectively close a trail. This tier is divided into
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four categories: close tacitly, close with educational notice, close assertively and
clos~ aggressively.
Close Tacitly
This type of closure can be applied where the "trail" may simply be an animal track
that has had minimal impact on the surrounding environment. Little to no erosion is
occurring and vegetation is adequate to fully cover the trail without any need for
scarifying or reseeding the alignment. Typically these trails will be receiving little
human use. Adequate closure techniques in this case may be limited to:
• Placing branches, stones or other light obstructions at the trail heads
• Allowing grasses and other plants to encroach onto the trail tread
This techniqye could be applied to trail segments: D (portions), E (portions), G, L, R,
o (portions along disk line)
Close with Educational Notice
This type of closure can be applied where the trail is having minimal impact on the
surrounding environment. Little to no erosion is occurring and vegetation is adequate
to fully cover the trail without any need for scarifying or reseedirig the alignment.
Typically 'these trails will be receiving a higher volume of human use than the
"animal tracks". Adequate closure techniques in this case may be limited to:
• Placing branches, stones or other light obstructions at the trail heads
• Allowing grasses and other plants to encroach the trail tread
• Providing signage to explain alternate routes and why the former path was
inappropriate.
This technique could be applied to trail segments: D (portions), P
Close Assertively
This type of closure will be the most prevalent in the Preserve. It is recommended
where the trail is having an impact on the surrounding environment. Trail design, soil
types and frequent use is resulting in one or more of the following conditions:
• Erosion is degrading the trail treadandlor impacting the surrounding
environment
• Sensitive biotic resources are being impacted
• Water quality of adjacent water bodies is, or may be impacted by continued use
of the trail
• Abandonment without correction will result in trail tread conditions that could
fester and cause major problems in the future
• Native vegetation is not adequate to fully cover the trail without any need for
scarifying or reseeding the alignment
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• Infestation of non-native invasive species needs to be controlled.
In addition, these trails typically will be receiving a higher volume of human use than
under the two trail closure types discussed above.
Adequate closure techniques in this case are addressed under the thr~e technical
techniques Correcting Eroded Slopes; Preparing Trails for Closure "in Riparian or
Wetland Areas and Preparing Trails for Closure in Serpentine Areas described
above. Education outreach will include:
• Providing signage to explain alternate routes and why the former path was
inappropriate
• Rangers educational outreach on the trail-e.g. stopping and talking to people
using these trails.
This technique could be applied to trail segments: B, C, D (portions), E, F, H, I, J, M,
N, 0 (portions)
Close Aggressively
This clOsure technique would follow the same steps as above except educational
outreach could be augmented with aggressive enforcement including:
• Systematically patrolling for trespassers
• Issuing citations for trespassing.
This technique could be applied to trail segments: A, K, S
Trail A (Formerly Known as Perimeter Trail)
Trail Length: 2050 linear feet
Reason for Closure:
• ~. Informal trail crossing of Arastradero Road creates a safety hazard
• Biotic Resources. Trail is located in a riparian zone that provides potential habitat
for sensitive species
• Scils.. There are two seeps resulting in soil movement upslope from the trail and
wetland areas along the trail
• Soils. Wet areas within trail tread are causing users to step around the boggy
areas resulting in the trail becoming wider and impacting more of the wetland
Recommended Trail Alternatives: Portola ,Pastures Trail and Juan Bautista De Anza
Trail
Recommended Procedures for Abandonment and Site Restoration:
See procedures for closing trail in riparian or wetland areas.
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Trail B
Trail Length: 6301 linear feet
Reason for Closure:
• Biotic Resources. Trail is located in a riparian zone that provides habitat for
sensitive species
• Parallel Trails, Trail parallels Woodland Trail
Recommended Trail Alternative: Woodland Trail
Recommended Procedures for Abandonment and Site Restoration:
See procedures for closing trail in riparian or wetland areas.
Trail C
Trail Length: 1605 linear feet
Reason for Closure:
• Privacy Buffer. Trail directs public into adjacent private property
• Lack of Connectivity. Trail does not provide connectivity to overall trail system.
Potential to reevaluate a trail connection to Portola Valley is dependent on the
Santa Clara County and Portola Valley Trails Plans. Currently the adjacent lands
are in the unincorporated area of Santa Clara County. No trail connection is
identified on the Countywide Trails Master Plan. Therefore, the County would .
not be able to require an easement as a condition of development of any of the
parcels that would provide a connection to Portola Valley.
Recommended Trail Alternatiye: Access into the Portola Valley Trail System to be
provided by the Juan Bautista de Anza Trail.
Recominended Procedures for Abandonment and Site Restoration:
See procedures for closing eroded trails.
Trail D
Trail Length: 6302 linear feet
Reason for Closure:
• Biotic Resources. Trails go through native grass stands.
• Parallel Trails. There is currently a maze of parallel, undefined, "volunteer" trail
routes that provide similar experiences and connect to the same destinations.
There is also a narrow trail that parallels the maintenanc~ access road. The
maintenance access road will be repaired and retained as the Meadowlark Trail.
The parallel trail is to be closed.
• Privacy Buffer. One of the trails in this group directs public into adjacent private
property
Recommended Trail Alternative: Meadowlark Trail and Bowl Loop Trail
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Recommended Procedures for Abandonment and Site Restoration:
Hand collect native grass seed at start of restoration work and store. Reseed area with
hand collected seed upon completion of procedures for closing eroded trails.
Trail E (formerly known as Meadowlark Trail)
Trail Length: 3151 linear feet
Reason for Closure:
• .s.cils.. Steep. entrenched trails
• Parallel Trails. There are parallel trail routes that provide similar experiences and
connect to the same destinations
Recommended Trail Alternative: Meadowlark Trail Segment 2
Recommended Procedures for Abandonment and Site Restoration:·
See procedures for closing eroded trails.
Trail F (formerly known as Acorn Trail)
Trail Length 1051 linear feet
Reason for Closure:
• .s.cils.. Steep. entrenched trails
• Soils. Wet areas within trail tread are causing users to step around the boggy
areas resulting in the trail becorrnng wider and impacting more of the wetland
• Parallel Trails. There are parallel trail routes that provide similar experiences and
connect to the same destinations.
Recommended Trail Alternative: Acorn Trail Segment 3
Recommended Procedures for Abandonment and Site Restoration:
See procedures for closing eroded trails .
. Trail G
Trail Length: 1141 linear feet
Reason for Closure:
Parallel Trails: There are parallel trail routes that provide similar experiences and
connect to the same destinations
Recommended Trail Alternatiye: Acorn Trail Segment 1
Recommended Procedures for Abandonment and Site Restoration:
See procedures for closing eroded trails.
Trail H
Irail Length: 11237 linear feet
Reason for Closure:
• Privacy Buffer. Trail directs public into adjacent private property
• Lack of Connectivity. Trail does not provide connectivity to overall trail system
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Recommended Trail Alternative: Access into the Los Alto Hills Trail System to be
provjded by the Juan Bautista de Anza Trail and Corte Madera Trail
Recommended Procedures for Abandonment and Site Restoration:
See procedures for closing eroded trails.
Trail I
Trail Length: 976 linear feet
Reason for Closure:
• Biotic Resources. Serpentine soils provide habitat for sensitive biotic species
• Soils. Steep, entrenched trails
• Parallel Trails. There are parallel trail routes that provide similar experiences and
connect to the same destinations
Recommended Trail Alternative: Bay View Trail and Corte and Madera Trail
Recommended Procedures for Abandonment and Site Restoration:
See procedures for closing serpentine trails.
Trail J
Trail Length: 1117 linear feet
Reason for Closure:
• ~. Steep, entrenched trails
• Parallel Trails. There are parallel trail routes that provide similar experiences and
connect to the same destinations
Recorrimended Trail Alternative: Juan Bautista de Anza Trail
Recommended Procedures for Abandonment and Site Restoration:
See procedures for closing eroded trails.
Trail K
Trail Length: 1897 linear feet
Reason for Closure:
• Biotic Resources. Serpentine soils provide habitat for sensitive biotic species
• Parallel Trails. There are parallel trail routes that provide similar experiences and
connect to the same destinations
Recommended Trail Alternative: Juan Bautista de Anza Trail
Recommended Procedures for Abandonment and Site Restoration: See procedures
for closing serpentine trails.
Trail L
Trail Length: 830 linear feet
Reason for Closure:
• Parallel Trails. There are parallel trail routes that provide similar experiences and
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Programs
March 2001
6~ 66
Final
connect to the same destinations Recommended Trail Alternative: Juan Bautista
de Anza Trail
Recommended Procedures for Abandonment and Site Restoration:
See procedures for closing eroded trails. Protect lone oak during restoration.
Trail M
Trail Length: 1345 linear feet
Reason for Closure:
• Privacy Buffer. Trail directs public into adjacent private property
• Lack of Trail Connectivity. Trail does not provide connectivity to overall trail
system
Recommended Trail Alternatiye: Access into the Los Alto Hills Trail System to be
provided by the Juan Bautista de Anza Trail and Corte Madera Trail
Recommended Procedures for Abandonment and Site Restoration:
See procedures for closing eroded trails.
Trail N
Trail Length: 1082 linear feet
Reason for Closure:
• Parallel Trails. There are parallel trail routes that provide similar experiences and
provide opportunities to connect to the same destinations
Recommended Trail Alternative: Stanford Pastures Trail
Recommended Procedures for Abandonment and Site Restoration:
See procedures for closing eroded trails.
Trail 0
Trail Length: 2203 linear feet
Reason for Closure:
• Biotic Resources. Southwest comer of westerly trail and most of the lower trail
cross and or parallel wetland areas that provides habitat for sensitive species
• Soils. Wet areas within trail tread are causing users to attempt to step around the
boggy areas resulting in the trail becoming wider. and impacting more of the
wetland
• Operations/Fire Protection. Portions of both the westerly and southerly trails
follow disk lines and are subject to annual disturbance when fire breaks are
established
Recommended Trail Alternative: Gateway Trail and North Perimeter Trail
Recommended Procedures for Abandonment and Site Restoration:
See procedures for closing trail in riparian or wetland areas.
Arastradero Preserve Tralis Management Program
Trail Maintenance Programs
March 2001
6-167
Final
Trail P
Trail Length: 649 linear feet
Reason for Closure:
• Biotic Resources. Trail crosses through a riparian area that provides habitat for
sensitive species
• Soils. Wet areas within trail tread are causing users to attempt to step around the
boggy areas resulting in the trail becoming wider and impacting more of the
wetland
Recommended Trail Alternative: New Trail Alignment -Juan Bautista de Anza Trail
Segment 1
Recommended Procedures for Abandonment and Site Restoration:
See procedures for closing trail in riparian or wetland areas.
Trail Q
Trail Length: 1309 linear feet
Reason for Closure:
• Biotic Resources. Trails go through native grass stands.
• Soils. Excessively steep trail
Recommended Trail Alternatiye: New Trail Alignment -Oak Trail
Recommended Procedures for Abandonment and Site Restoration:
Hand collect native grass seed at start of restoration work and store. Reseed area with
hand collected seed upon completion of procedures for closing eroded trails.
Trail R
Trail Length: 1050 linear feet
Reason for Closure:
Biotic Resources. Trail directs public into pristine area of the Preserve
Lack of Trail Connectivity. Trail does not provide connectivity to overall trail system
Recommended Trail Alternative: Access into the Foothill Park to be provided by the
Arastradero Creek Trail
Recommended Procedures for Abandonment and Site Restoration:
Hand collect native grass seed at start of restoration work and store. Reseed area with
hand collected seed upon completion of procedures for closing eroded trails.
Trail S
Trail Length: 890 linear feet
Reason for Closure:
• Biotic Resources. Trail crosses Arastni.dero Creek as it enters Arastradero Lake
and parallels the Lake in a riparian area that provides habitat for sensitive·
species.
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Programs
March 2001
6""168
Final
• s..IDls.. Wet areas within trail tread are causing users to attempt to step around the
. boggy areas resulting in the trail becoming wider and impacting more of the
wetland.
• Construction Mitigation Costs. Construction costs to provide a boardwalk to
cross the creek are too high to warrant mitigating impacts in an area that would
still be subject to seasonal closures to protect sensitive species.
Recommended Trail Alternative: Arastradero Creek Trail and Corte Madera Trail
Recommended Procedures for Abandonment and Site Restoration:
See procedures for closing trail 'in riparian or wetland areas
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Programs
March 2001
6,\69
Trail Segment# DescrlpUon Trail
Segment Length
High Maln""'ance Trail.
Acorn Trail Acl
Segment I Arastradero
Creek Trail 10 954LF Juan Bautista
de Anza Trail
AcomTrail-Ac2
Segment 2 Juan Bautista
de Anza Trail 18SS LF to Bay Leal
Trail
Acorn Trail-IV:3
Segment 3
Bay Leal Trail
to 1512LF Arastradero
Creek Trail
Arastradero ArCI Juan Bautista CraekTrall de Anza Trail Segment I
to 1072 LF Arastradero
CreekTral~
Segment 2
Aras1racIero ArC2
CraekTraH Arastradero
Segment 2 CreekTrai~
Segment 1
(at Lake) 10 3607 LF
South
Termlnus 01
AcomTrall
Arastredero ArCs
CraekTraU South
Segment 3 Terminus of
Acom Trail to Z7ff1LF
Foothills Park
Boundary
Corte CMI
Madera Trail Araatradero
Segment I Creek Trail 0
Arastredero
Lake across 405LF
bridge & top 01
Dam&toCorte
Madera 2
Final
Arasterdero Preserve Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Programs
Ex. Trail Proposed
WIdth Trail Type
High
Maintenance
10'<1-UtIlity TraR,
Yea~-round
use
High
Greater Maintenance
Recreation than 4 A. TraM, Year-
round use
High
Maintenance
4ft Recreation
TraIl,Year-
round use
High
Maintenance
4'<1-Recre8tion
Trai,
Seasonal use
High
Maintenance
10'<1-Utility Trail,
Year-round
use
High
10'<1-Maintenance
Utility Trail,
Seasonal use
10'<1-High
former Maintenance
asphah UtHItyTrall,
road Year-round
use
Table 5 Trail Implementation Program -Recommended Capital Improvements
Proposed
TrallWldlhl Priority ActIon Recommended Capftallmprovements surfllce Ranking
Treatment
Accessing the Rep.lr
Preserve, UtIlity Install Develop lnatalll Correct Trail Tread
Future Improve Entry Vehicles Bridge, Tran Repair Drainage Reroute (harden
Studies Accessibility Identificatlon, Access Boardwalk, Drainage Culvert /Erosion ex. TraR where
Salety Puncheon Swales natedln
Improvements plan)
Hardened PrIority Ranking
Trail Tread, tied to • •
la' wide scheduled utility
maintenance
Native Soli 4' Low wide·
· Moderate-
Potential
erosion/safety
Native Soil 4' concerns • • • wide asaocI.led wIIh
culverted
drainage
crossings
Hardened High Corrective • Tranread& action needed to Biotic Study • • Harden Native Soil, eliminate ex. Tran 4' wide .alety hazards
Hlgh-UtiOty
Dept scheduled
Hardened to perfonn road •
Trail Tread. Improvements • • • • Harden FY200I. PrIority 10'wlde Ranking tied to Trail
scheduled utility
maintenance
High. Priority Hardened • • TraRTread, Renklng tied to • • Gate D lfT1)roV8 • • • Harden
10' wiele scheduled utility Tum-Trail maintenance around
Compacted
engineered PrIority Ranking filion dam tied to • Raise 1808,10' scheduled utility • dam wide & maintenance wooden
bridge
Correct Vegetative
Trail Install Managementa
Tread Bollan:t. Native Habitat
WIdth Enhancement
• •
• •
•
New
Amenities
(e.g.
bench,
water
trough,
lence)
• New
Parallel Trail to
Be Closed in
Conjuctian wIIh
TraU
Improvements
NA
NA
NA
TraiiSeg. K
TraiiSeg. F
NA
NA
March 2001
6 -70
Table 5 Trail Implementation program -Recommended Capital Improvements {l,;Ontmueo} 1
TI'IIII ~. DellCfipllon T .. n
~ I.erigIII
Corte eM:!
MaderaT",. East_. Segment 2
Perimeter
Boundary to 1724 LF
_trodero
lake
Gataway Gal
TraH·
Segmen! I Parldng Lol to 99SLF Gate A
Gatowsy Gal!
T!1!I1· Parldng Lot to
Segment 2 Arastradero -1632LF
Pasluraa
_Road
Juan Je!
BaUllstade _a
National Iwsltadero
HimricTrai Road to Gate A 7S2lF
Segment!
Juan
Bautistad.
Anza GateAto
National JB2 Anlstradero 111SlF
Historic Trai ereekTra.
Segment 2
Arastradero
Juan Creek Trail 10
Bautista de jet of Juan
Anza BaUIisIa de
National JB3 Anza Trai~ 540LF
HisllOric:Traif. Sag .. 4 &
Segment 3 Portal
Pastures Trail
Juan
Bautista de
Anza Portal 2268
National JB4 PasIlJreS Trail LF
H"l8IorlcT",jI 10 Acorn Trail
Segmorn4
Fonal
Arasterdero Preserve Trails Management Program
TroU Maintenance Programs
Propoud
Ex. TI'IIII Propoaecl TI'IIIIWIdlIII -TI'IIIIType -T_t
High
MainteMnce Native SoilS' 10'+1-Recreation
Trei. Yea .. wide
rourd USe
High
Malnl"""nce Hardened
6'+1-_lion TrailT ..... d.
TraII,Y .... eI_
fOUnd use
High
Maintenance Native SoUa' NA _tIon wide T!1!I1.Y .....
round_
H'1gh N_SoUa' MaIntenance wid. & new NA Recreation equea1rian Tral. Y ....
round ..... bridge
HIgh
Maintenance Hardened
10'-12' U1iIltyTfIIU. TralIT......a.
Year-",""" 10'wId. ....
High
Malntenance Native SoilS' <4' _n wldo TntH, Yea,...
round use
HIgh
MaIntena_ Native SoU 6' <4' Rec:teatIon -T!1!I1.Y .....
round use
Priority Action -... Copltlllimpro""monls Rankl"l1
-.mgthe Repair --UtilIty l""taII Develop I_I Cotreot TrailT......a
Future Improve Entry Vehioleo Blldge. TfIIl Repair DraInage ReroUie (harden
Stud ... _Ilty -. -Boardwelk. Dralnage Culvert IEroeIon .... T",. where
Safety Plmel100n Swales noledln
Impro\Ie!!IeI1II plan)
• Fromlos • Low Remove AhosHills
"""haR
High -Safety &
aocesalblDty • From _for • Preserve • • • • • Primary entry Paricing Lol
Into Preseiv.
Moderate -
Po~1aI
Realignment. • From
!>priola LInk new Bioi. Study Pastures • • Construction Stables with cIoaure 01
RouIaaA&N
HIgh -Proposed
TraiiNewtraii
_& BIotioStudy • FromLos ealllly. LInk new TI1IfficStudy AllX>sHlila • • ~,.:
RouteP
Low. Prtority • Ranking tied to _Add Harden.
acheduled utility tum-regrade.t
maintenance around manholes
Mod .... te·
Partial
raalignmen~
Now
constructIonreq. Biotic Study • • Unknewtrail
conoIruction with
""'",,",oITraU
RoUlesJ & K
_te·
PartIal
reaIIgernenI.
CoordInate
mpakalOtraiI
treed with JB3
imp-
I I I
Cotreot Vegetalive
T!1!I1 Install M..,agement-
T......a Bollan!s Netive Habllat
Width Enhancement
• ..... •
• •
•
• •
• •
• •
• •
I
New
Amenit ...
(e.g.
bench.
water
1n>ugh.
fence)
• New
P"",,""Trailto
Be Cloaed in
ConjUCflon willl
Tral
Impro_
TraiiSeg.H
NA
TraUSeg.A,
Trail Sag. N,
Trail Seg. 0
Trail Sag. P
NA
TraP Seg.J
I ~.?~~:. na" 'Seg.
TraH Seg. L
March 2001
6 ·71
----------------!a~ T_I'<III-,mplementation Program -Recommended Capital Improvements (Continued)
TI1III Segment. DeIC'l!ptlon Trail Ex. TI1III
Segment Length WIdth
Juan
_tade Acorn Trail to ArIza J85 Woodland 1079 LF <4' National
HloloricTraD Trail
SegmentS
Juan
BoutioIade Woodland
ArIza Trau 10 West
J85 Preserve 1542 LF 10';+ National Perimeter Historic Trail Boundary Sogmenl6
MeadowIarl<
TraP· MeLl Gate Cto Oak 3710LF 10'+1·
Segmenll TraD
North GatewaYT"," -NP 10_ 3808LF <4'
Trail ParI"""" TraD
Porto! Portal Pastures
Pea"",," =~= TraD· PP1 365LF NA
Segment 1 Sogmenl2
Portal Portal Pastures
PM"",," Sogment21o f'1>2 1016LF <4' TraD· Juan Bautista
Segment 2 deAnza TraD
Partdng lotIO -Preserve
_reo
SI' BO<lndaty with 1773LF 10';'/·
TraR Stanford Lands
Moderate Main_nco Trail.
Bay Leal komTrall1O
Trail SaU Meadowlark 676 LF <4'
Segmenll TraD
-----
Final
Arasterdero Preserve Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Programs
Propoud
Propoud TrallWIdthI Priority ActIon
TraHType $_ Ranking
Tralmehl
High
Malntenanee Hardened law. Priority
RecnI8IIon TraUTreod, RanlOng tied 10
_uledutility TraR, Year· 10'wide malntenanee round use
Low. T",R
HIgh imp-
Maintenance Na1lv. SoH 6' should not be
RecnI8IIon made until a
Trail, Year· wide ute connection
round use can be made
Into Portal Van"!
Moderate Hardened Low. Priority -..... TraIIT"""'. RanIOng tied to
UtiIiIfTraD. ' 10' wide _uledutility
Seasonal use malntenanee
High
Maintenance Native SoIl 4' RocreaUon wide law
Trail, Year·
round ... e
Hlgh·Propoeod
High Native Son 4' Trail New trail
M.Intena,.,.. wide & new conatruction&
R_tion eqwslrien safety.llI'Ilc
TraII,Y...". bridge Gateway 10
round use traflicsudy
findings
High
MeIntena""e Native Son 4' Rocroation Low
Traa, Y.ar· wide
round U8G
High Low·
Mod_to
__
Native Son 4-traIIahouid be Raaeation 6' wide coordinated with TrailIY&a.r-connection1cJ round use StanlOrd
_e
Malntena.... Native Soil 4' ~n wid. law
Seasonal use
_ndedeap .... llm_ments
-------------r--
_Ingtho Repair
Pre,,,,,,,,,,
UtiIiIf lnsla6 eovelop In_' Como::! TraDT""'" Como::!
Fulure I~""'" Entry Vehicles Bridge, Trail Ropeir DI1IInoge Ren>trte (holden TraD
S1udIes AcceooIbill1y Identification, -_II<. Oralnogo Colvort /Erosion ex. Trail where Tread
Safety Puncheon Swales noted In Width·
Improvements plan)
• Gate • B Hard ..
BIotic Study, • From • • • • TraflicStudy Portola Valley
.
• Gale
CAdd
• • From Illm-• • Marthena Ln. around
81 Born
ole
• •
• From SloticStudy, Portola
T_Study • Pastures • •
Stables
• From • Add Biotic Study Stanford tum-• around
•
----
New
'Amenities VegetoClve (ag. lnslaR Management--bench, Bollard. Native Habitat water Enhancement trough,
lence)
•
• Maintain
ex. bench
• New
bench
•
•
Parallel T",iI to
BeCTosed in
ConjucUon will>
TmP
I~
NA
NA
NA
TtllH Sog. 0
NA
NA
TmISog.M
NA
Mateh 2001
6 ·72
1ftII Segment. DolCflpllon 'Tndl
Segment Length
Bayle ... -TmiI· BoI.2 Troll to 8\l6LF
Segment 2 Woodland Trail
Bay v_ Juan Bautista
BV de ArIza Trail to 1510LF Tmil Corte Madera
8owlLoop MeadowLarl(
BL T",U to Oak 7399LF Tmil Troll
Spuroff
InspiraUcn tP MeadowLerl( 550LF PointTraI TraU Near Old
Bam Site -Oak Tmil 10
Tw· MeL2 JuanBauista 4SI16LF
Segment 2 T",USeg.5
MasdowLerl<
OakT",U Oa Trello Sabey 1604LF
Leu TroD
Woodlond
TmiI· Wol Gate Bta Bay 1478 LF Leal Tral Segment1
Woodland Bey LeatTw
TmiI· Wo2 10 Meadow 1671 LF
Segment 2 Lerl(T",H
Final
Arasteidero Presecve Tralls Managemenl Program
Trail M-.ane& Programs
Ex. 1ftII PIOpooed -TndlType
Mod_
MalnIan ......
d _lion
Troll,
S ..............
Mod_
Malntena .....
<4' R ....... llon
T",_,
Seasonal use
Mod .... t.
Maintenance
<4' _lion
TmiI,
SaasonaI ...
Mod_
Maintenance
<4' _lion
TraU,
Seasonal use
Moderate
Malnt..,ance
d -Trail,
SaasonaI .....
Moderate
MaIntenonce
NA -Trail,
SaasonaI .....
HIgh
10'+1· Maintenance
Utill1yTroI~
Seasoner use
Moderate
Maintenance
<4' _lion
Tran,
S .... naIuse
Table 5 Traillm~ementation Program -Recommended Caeitallmerovements {Continued}
PlOpooed
TndI_ PrlotllyAclion __ nc!od Ctlpllallmpro ....... nla
Surl'lloe Ranldng
T_I
_ingtlle Repair
Presetve, UIIIty InstaJI Develop I_I == TmilTread
Future ,-Entry Bridge. Tmil Reroute (harden
S!Udieo AccesaIbIIity -, VehIcI .. Boardwalle, DraInage Repair ex. Tral where
Safely -P_n Swales CUlvert noted in
I_-pian)
Native Soil 4' Moderate,
wid<! _naIwater • •
quall1riesuas
Native Soil 4' Moderatewfll
""",.,.,hlgh."" • • • ~ Inaumrner
.
Native Soil Low BIoUc Study
Native Soil 4' Low wid<!
Native Soil 4'
wid<! Low •
Mod_
ComICtIve_
needed 10
"""""'-<N&rateeplroll.
N.tIve Sol 4' --BioUcStudy a a • wid<! nolbe
""""""'IIuntI
tmll8
reconatru::ted 10
minlmIze env.
~
Hardened Low. PriorIty
Tronread. Ranking tied to a • schedUled utility 10'wIde maintenance
Mod_
N.tive Soil 4' ~rr:actIor
wide _eroded BIoUcStudy a • • •
slopesl
entrenched traft
Correct
Trail Instal
Tread Bollard.
Woclth
• a
•
a a
• •
a
•
< •• ,
•
------
New
_lies Vegetalille (e.g. Management·
Native Habitat bench.
Enhancement water
trough,
fence)
• Maintain
ex. bench
•
•
Estimated
CeQ to CIo$e
Psmilel Trail
NA ,
Trail Sag, I
TrailSeg, C
NA
TrailSeg. E
TmilSeg, Q
T",USeg,B
NA
March 2001
6 ·73
Tro. s.v-Sogmonl. DncIIpIIon T..n
I..engIII
High Ma __ TnI1s
Acorn Trail Segrnanl , Ac,
~
CleekT",a 10
Juan Bautista 954LF
de Am. TmB
Acorn TraU -Segmentl M<.
Juan BauIIsta
d. Atrze TraU
10 Bay Lo.' 1686LF
TraU
Acom Trail M Segment Ac3
Bay Loal Troll
10 Alaolrllde", 1512LF
Cr"""T",B
Araslradelo CreeIc Trail AIel
Segment 1 Juan Bautista
de AnzaTral1
10_0'" 10(2LF
CleekTraII-
8_12
AraslradoroCreelcT .. U AIC2
Sognnont2 --'" CleekTraII-
Segmenl 1 (al 'JIii07LF Lake) 10 Soutb
Tonninuo of
Acom TraU
A_e_TraU AIC3
SegmentS Soulh Terminus
of Acom Tra.
'0 FooIIIIIs
27f1lLF
Port<Boundoly
Corte Madora T"'i~ CM'
Segment 1 Araslradll",
CreelcTraD 0 --Lakeact08S 405LF
bridge&1opot
Dam&IoCort.
Madera 2
1ft! ___ T"," Management Program
TraiI_Plogramo
Table 6 Trail 1m lementation Prooram -Recommended Annual Maintenance Tasks
PI'opoMd
Ex. TNII PI'opoMd Tna WIdIhI __ Annuol_.Tulca
WIdth TNUTJopo SII.-
T_
Clean, inspeo! --Mowdisk SIgn Repair
Smergeocy Repair Install' R_a
sIonn &ropair --I~& fueI_1ca Remove Repia<>en'lOll1l, V_8l!v$
drainage culverts, & routine Repair (0.9-'" .......... 1 • a.trall Managomenl-
damage & drains & water
'JeOd
bridgoo, _"'Y ....... "'"""'"'''' natlYo habitat
I1lpO!r dips&_eT repair gat ... --boIiat<ts epecIal signag. -bers -) mads" .; trail markers
HIgt
MaIn1 ...... """ Hardened
'O'-+!-U!lIIIyT"'I~ TrallTtead, • • Year-lOund 'O'wide ......
HIgt
G_lhon
Malni ...... _
Nall\Ie Soil 4'
4Ft. _lion wid. • • • • TraIl,Y .. ,-
round_
HIgh
Malnienance N.tiv. SoB 4' 4ft Recreation wide • • • TraU. Year~
round use
HIgt Hardened Malniena_ TraBTJeOd& 4'-+!. -NativoSoll.4' • • • • Trail, wide Souonal ....
HIgt •
Ma_ -10'-+!· IJIBilyTral. TraUTroad. • • • • • Y_-10'wide
"""
HIgt Han:tenod
10'-+!· Malnionanc:e T""ITread, • • • • GaleO • UtBilyTraU,
'O'wide Seasonal use
HIgh camp.dod • bridge,
Maintenance engtneered fill pond
'O'-+!. UtIIityT .. B, on dam lace, • lenclng, • • Year~rour1d ,O'wide& water
use woodenbrldg< lrough
lIegetatl\le
Managomenl-
Control 01
invasive. f'iOfl'-
no .....
•
Clearing &
BrushIng
WfDdy 11_-
•
•
'-,.
•
•
Gnossland
I~~-:t
•
Matdl 2001
6·74
Troll Segment Segment. DHctIptIon
Corte_TraU. CM2
Segmen!2 Eaat_
Perimeter
_'110 A_
Lake
Galeway Trail· Gal
Segment'
Par!dnglotto
Gate A
Gateway Trait-Ga2
Segmen!2
Parking lot to
AtaoII1Idero
RoadIPoI1Ola
Past"",,_
Road
Juan BalJtista de Anm JBl
NaUonal Historic Trail-
Segment 1 . _den>
Road 10 Gate A
Juan ea .. 1sIa de Anza GaleAto
National Historic Trail-JB2 Arastl1ldero
Segment 2 Creek Trail ___
Creel< TraU to
jeL of Juan Juan Baliista de Anz,a Baut1stade National HistoricT",U. JB2 Anza Trail· Segment 3 Seg ... 4&
Portol.
Pastures Trait
Juan Bout_ de Ana PortoI.
Natiol"l8l Historic Trail~ JB4 Past ..... Tra.
Segment. to AoomTraII
Fino! __ P""",rve Trails Management Program
Trail MIIinteMnce Programs
Table 6 I ran Implementation program -Recommended Annual Maintenance Tasks (Continued) p--
T .... Ex. TI1III PIopoMd
T .... _
R .... _Alm ... I-......T_ I..tmtIh WIdth TroIlTypo $-
T ........ nt
CI..."I~ _res· --SignRepalr
Emergency a._1r Repair InspooIion 8 luelbreaks InalaW _rlfate& Veget.1ive sIoml Moho"", Aem>ve Replacement.
drainage -&mutine Repair (e.g. & . seasonal nn -trail Managemeot·
drains & water brid_ emergency native habllat damage & c!ipo& wale.. tread gatos, access "fire """"" markets & enha_meot
""",Ir bOrs """,lr benches) roads-_0;18 """,latslgnage
n ... trallmarlc:ers
High
10'-11-Malrllena""" Nalive Soli 6' 1724LF deteriorated R~ -• • asphaftroad Trall.Y_·
round ....
-
High
Maintenance Hal<lened -Gate A.
I195LF ft+!· RocnlOllon TraIITread.ft • • • drlnlcing • T"'l~Y ..... -fountain
round .....
HIgh
MaInlen&t1"C8 Native Sollft 1632LF NA RecruIion • • bridge • • Trail. Vear--mund.U&e
High
Maint_nee Native SoliS'
752LF NA RecruIion _&now • • bridge • • equestrian Tran.Y ..... bridge roundu.
High
Malnt ......... -1115 LF 10'·12' Utility Trail, Trail Tread. • • • Year-round 10'_
uae
High
Maintenance" NaliveSolift 540 LF <4' R_11on -• • • • • Tral~ Year·
mund"""
HIgh
:2268 Malntenarc:e Native SolI 8'
'LF <4' _lion -• • --• • TraM,Vear-_U118
Veg .... l1 ... Clearing & Managemeot-
ComroIoI _Ing
WOOlly invasive, non~ Vegetation I'IIIN ...
•
•
•
•
Grusi.nd
Mo..-rrim with
we.::I~Mter
•
•
•
•
•
•
March 2001
6·75
Tr.~1 Segment Segmont.
Juan Bautista de Anza
National Historic Trail. JB5
SegmentS
Juan Bautista de Anza
National Historic Trall-JB6
SegmentS
Meadowlark Trail-MeLl Segment 1
North PerimetetTrail NP
Portola Pasllas Trail-
Segment 1 PP1
Portola Pastures Trail-PP2 Segmont2
Stanford Pastures Trail SP
Moderate U.lnte .. nce Trail
Bay Leal Trail Segment BaLI ,
Anal
Arasterdero Preserve Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Programs
Dncrlpllon
Acorn Trail 10
WoodlandTran
Woodland T ... l
10 Wesl
Preaerve
Perimeter
Boundary
Gate C to Oak
TraB
Gateway Trail to
Stanford
Pasturea Trail
Portola Pastures
_Road 10
Parlola Past .....
Segmenl2
POrlOlaP .......
Segmenl210
JUlIn BaUllstad
Anza Tra~
Partclng l.oI 10
PnlSalVe
Boundarywilh
Stanford Lands
AcomTrsilto
Moadowlar1c
Trail
Table 6 Trail Implementation Program -Recommended Annual Maintenance Tasks (Continued)
Propooed
TnII Ex. Troll Propooed Troll WIdIhI Recommended Ann" M.lntenance T •• ks Length WIdth Trail Type Surfoce
Treatment
Clean, Insped Structures -Mowdlsk SlgnR_I.
Emergency & repal. ~I. Inspection & fuel breaks InslalV Rehablrdale & Vegetative storm culverts, washouts Aepal.(e.g. & Remove Rop1a_ Management-drainage drains & water & routine bridges, emergency seasonal •• -traII native habitat damage & dips & water lread gales, access "fire access markers & spada! enhancement 'repair repair bollards eIgIage . _=11811 bars benches) roads-rnar1ceraonly
High
Maintenance Native Soil 6' 1079 LF <4' Recreation wide • • GateS • TraU, Year-
round use
High
Maintenance Hardened
1542 LF 10'-+1-Remolion Trail Tread, • • • •
Trail, Yeaf-10'wide
round use .
Moderate Hardened
3710LF 10'-+1-Maintenance Trail Tread, • • • • Galee, • lJIlrdyTrall, 10'wide bench
Seasonal use
High
Maintenance Native Soil 4' 3508LF <4' Rocrealion wide • • • •
Trail, Year-
round use
High Native Soil 4' Maintenance wide & new 365 LF NA RecreaUon equestrian • • • bridge • •
Trail, Year-
round use bridge
High
Maintenance Native Soil 4' 1016LF <4' RocreaIIon • • • • • Trail, Year-wide
round ...
High
Maintenance
1773LF 10'-+1-Recrealion Native Soli 4-• • • • •
Trail, Year-6'wide
round ...
Moderalo
Maintenance Nallve SoB 4' 878LF <4' Remolion • • • • • •
Trail, wide
Seasonal use
VogeI.11ve
Management-
Control of
Invasive, non-
natives
•
•
•
•
•
Clearing &
Brushing
Woody
Vegetation
•
•
•
Grassland
MowITrimwith
weed-eater
•
•
March 2001
6 -76
Table 6 TralllmDiementation Program -Recommended Annual Maintenance Tasks (Continued)
.. ~
Troll ~ ~. O-:dptlon Troll Ex. TnIIl Propoood TroII_ RM:ommended Ann .. 1 MalntenllnCO T •• ka "" .... -Trail TYI'" -T_ ... nt
---------
E~ Clean, !nspeol Ropalr -.... --I"""'IV
S1gn~
YegOlal1Ye & ropalr 1"",,_& fuelb .... "" Rehobllltate& Vegetative a!onn -, washouts Ropair(e.g. & Remove ~ Management· Management·
~ &_1"" seasonal ••• VIII ConIroI'" ""mago' drains & water tread brI:Igeo, -ncy acceso """"""'&~ native habltal IIMISlve, non·
repair dips & water repair got ... _'lire bollllrds ~.=ball onho",""""" nal1Yeo bora -, roods" nwtteraonly
Moderate
eayLealTrail· _ric Malntena_ Native SolI 4' i!oU! Tralllo 8261.F <4' Recreation • • • • • • • Segmont2 WOOdlandTralI Trah, -----Juan_de Mainl.......,.. NatIve $0114' Bay \!lew Trail BY At1za Trail to 1S101.F <4' _lion -• • • • • • Corte Madara Trah. -.....
Moderato
Mood>wLoric MaIntenance
80M Challenge TTa';l BL Trail to OakTra 13991.F <4' Recreollon _SolI • • • • Trail,
Seasonal use
Moderale
Spuroff~ Maintenance NatlveSoll41
,,,,,,,inllion Point Trail IP Lori<TrailN_ 5501.F <4' Recreollon • .bench • • OIdBomSi1. Trail, wide
_I ....
Moderate
Mea<i:Jwlari<Trol'· OakTrail to Bay Maintenance Nat1Ye Soil 4' MoU 4S!lS1.F <4' _lion • • • Segmont2 LeofTrail Trail. wide
Seasonal use
Moderalo
MaedowLerk Malntonat>:e Native Soli 4' • Including OakTrali Oa TntillO Sobey 18041.F NA _lion • • • • • LokoTroll Trail, -poisonoa!\:
SaasonalUN
High -WOOdlandTralI· Wol GoloStoeay 14781.F 10'+1· Maintenance TraUTreod, • .. • • • • • Segment 1 LoaITraU UliI1lyTrah. 10' _ _ I use -WoodIandTrai!-Bay Leol Trail!. Maintenanoa Native SoD 4'
SegmOnt2 Wo2 Mea<i:Jw""ri< 16711.F <4' _Ion WIde • • • • TraD Tral,
Seaaonaluse
Not.: This loblo doaa no! Include Pr","""" wide malnt .... """ _ such as disking Iir& bras"" and ma1nIainIM the oIa"'" ar .. and _.r lonelno that m.JSI also "" _nod when dov_o tho annual mainlena""" """,ram
-Ara_ """"""" Trails Management Program
TIl!iIMainlenanaetl'rograms
Clearing &
BlUShl09
Wo<nt
Vegetation
•
•
•
. -..
•
•
•
Gro ... and
Mo,.,.rim wIIh
weed-eater
•
MM:h 2001
6·77
Trail Segmentt Segment
High Maintenance Trail.
AcomTrail Acl
Segment 1.
AccmTrall-Ac2
Segment 2
AcomTrall-Ac3
Segment 3
Arastradero ArCl
Creek Trail
Segment 1
Arestradoro ArC2
Cr.ek Tra"
Segment 2
Arastrad.ro ArC3
Creek Trail
Segment 3
Corte CMl
MaderaTrai
Segment 1
Final
Amsterdero Preserve TrailS Management Program
Trail Maintenance Programs
Description
Amstradero
Creek Trail to
Juan Bautista
de Anza Trail
Juan Bautista
de Anza Trail
to Bay Leal
Trail
Bay Leal Trail
to Arastradero
Creek Trail
Juan Bautista
deAnza Trail
to Arastradero
Cr.ekTraI~
Segment 2
Arastradero:
CreekTraI~
Segment 1 <at
Lake) '0 South
Terminus of
Acorn Trail
South
Terminus 01
Acorn Trail to
Foothills Park
Boundary
Arastradero
CreekTraU 0
Arastradero
Lakeacrosa
bridge & top 01
Dam&toCorte
Madera 2
Table 7 Trail Implementation Program -Recommended Cyclical Maintenance Improvements
Proposed
Trail Ex. Troll Proposed TrallWlcllhl Cyclical Maintenance Improvemenls Langlh WIdth Trail Type Surface
Treabnent
Replace Replace Restrooma & Ro8urlace
Puncheons, Gravel Parking Lot
Replace Bridges &
Replace Boardwalks, (These improvements are related to
Culverts, SwHchback come the propcaed Gateway Project
Resurface Hardened dralnplp., walls, implementation. Currently the
trans (1S-20y .... ) bollarda, gates Co+J21 ncrete Preserve uses portable toilets.
( (1D-15 yea .. Pavers Parking lot surface & configuration
(1D-15 yea .. ) are determined by Gateway
Project) (2D-25 yea .. )
High
Maintenance Hardened
954LF 10'-11-UtilityTrai~ Trail Tread, • Reherd.n Trail
yea .... round 10' wid. Treed
use
High
Greater than Maintenance Natlv. Soil 4' 1666LF 4Ft Recreation wid. Trail, Vear-
round use
High
Maintenance Natlv. Son 4' • Replace 1512LF 4ft Recrea1lon wid. culverts TraII,Vea ..
round use
High Hardened Maintenance TraBTread& • Replace 1072 LF 4'-11-Recreallon
Trail, Natlv.Son, concrete pavers
4' wid. Seasonal use
High
Maintenance Hardened • Reharden Trail • Replac. • Replace 3807LF 10'-11-UtDityTrall, Trail Tread,
Year-round 100wid. Tread culverts bollarda
us.
High Hardened • Replace 2797LF 10'-11-Maintenance TraUTread, • Reharden Trail cutverts, Gate • Replace
Utility Trail, 100wid. Tread D bollard.
Seasonal use
• Monitordam
Compacted repairs I
High engineered modfflcalionsto
Maintenance fin on dam Araatradero Lak.
405LF 10'-11-Utility Trail, Ieee, 10' Dam to meet code
Year-round wid. & req. by Public Worias
us. wooden Dept. to ensure trail
bridge surface Is
maintained
Replace
Drinking
Fountains &
Water Troughs
(S-10yea .. )
.....
Replace
Benches, Trash
Cans, & Signs
(4-8y.a .. )
• Replace
Signs
• Replace
Signs
• Replace
Signs
• Replace
Signs
• Replace
Signs
• Replace
Signs
• Replace
Signs, water
trough, bench
I
!
I
March 2001
6 -78
Troll Segment' Segment
Corte CM2
Mad_Trail
Segment 2
Gateway Gal
TraII-
Segment 1
Ga-.y Ga2
Trail-
Segment 2
Juan JBl
Ba_do
Anu
National
_Trail
Segment 1
Juan
Boutistode
Anu
Natiional JB2
Historic Trai
Segment:!
Juan
Bou_do
Anu JB3 National
HistoricTmH
SegmentS
Juan
So_do
Anza JB4 National
_TraU
Segment 4
Fmal
Arilsterdaro Pr ........ TraHs Management Program
Trail Maintenance Programs
I SDIe f I ralllmplement~On t'rogram,-liecommenaea 1,,-YC"C81 Maintenance Improvements (COntinued)
Pro~
Dnoripllon Trail Ex. Troll Pro~ Troll WIdIhI CycIIcoI Malnbon~ 1 __ 1s
Length WIdth Trail Type SiI_
T_t
Replace Aeotrooms & R .... If_
Replace , al'lMllPa~Lot
Replace PuncI1eona, {These Impnw"""'ntlS .... _ to
Replace Bt1dges & CUIvel1s, ' eoard_, the proposed G81 __ y Projeo!
Reaurlace Hardened drainpipe, S_come Implementation. CUrrently the
In!lIs (15-20 yo .... ) bollardo, gates waRs,Co""""_ Pr ............. pornIbIe loilets.
(1G-15yean1 Pave", Perldng iot_ & IXIIIfigIJration
(1G-15 years) .... delennlned by Gateway
Project) ~25yeam)
EastPreseove High
Padmet ... 10'+1-~ Native SoH 6' BoundalY to 1724 LF d.teriorated _n wid. -"'" eaphaIt road TI1IU. Yeer-
lake round ....
High
POJ1cing Lot to --Native Soli 6' _Replace
995LF 6'+/-_n drainpipe, . • G81eA Ttd. Year-wid. GaleA
round use
Parking Lot to High --Ma_ N.tive SOU 6' • Monilor&
RoadIPoI1oIa 1632LF NA _n wide replace bridge ..
Paatureo Trail, Yeer-""I.
_Acad round use
High Nativo SoH 6'
Araatrad_ MaIntenance wid. & r.-• Monilor&
752LF NA RlICIlilaIIon replace bridge .. Aced to Gate A TraII,Y""", eq .... 1rIan
bridge ""I.
round ......
High
GateAlo Maintenance Hardened • R_Trall Araatrad_ 1115LF 10'-12' UtiittyTroll. Troll Tread. Tread • CreekTraU Year-round 10'wld. ....
"'_",0
Creek Trail to High jet of Juan Maintenanc:e Bautista do 540 LF <4' RlICIlilaIIon Native SoR S'
Anza Tral~ wid. Trail. Year-Seg.4& rounduae
Portola
Pastures Trail
High
Portola 2268 MaIntenance Native SoIl 6' Pastures Trail <4' -10 Acorn Trail LF Trail. Yee,.. wide
round use
~----~----
Replace
Drinking
Fount8lns &
Water Trougha
(5-1 0 yeanI)
•
Replace
Ilenohes, T ..... h
Cans. & Signa
(4-8yean1)
• Replace Signs
• Replace Signa. trasn
cans,
• Replace Signs
• Replaca Signs
• Replace Signo
• Replace Signa
• Replaca Signo,bencI\
Maron 2001
6-79
Table 7 Trail Implementation Program -Recommended Cyclical Maintenance ImprovementsJContlnuedl
Pr<>p<>sed
Trail Segment' DelCflptlon Trail Ex. Tran Proposed TraUWld1hI CycIIcoi M.ln""" ...... lmprovemenlll Segment l.ngth WIdth TroUType Surface
T .... tment
Repla"" R .. _rna & Reaurf.""
Repla"" Gravel P.rklng lot
Replace Puncheons, (These Improvemonts .re related to
Replace Bridges & CuIvec1&, Bo.rd,."I"", the propoaed Gatew.y Project
Restriace H.rdened drelnplpe, Switchback come Implem.ntallon. Currently the
trail. (15-20 ye .... ) bollard., gat .. walls,Concrete Preserve us .. porlable fllitets.
(10-15y ..... PavSI'$. Parking Iot._ & conllgurallon
(10-15 years) are del_ined by Gateway
Project) (2G-25 yo .... )
Juan High Sautislad.
AI:rr.a i'mmTralito M_ Hardened • Reharden Trail • Rep .....
NatIonal JB5 Woodland Trail 1079 LF <.f Recreation Trail Tread, Tread GateB
Hl_TraB Trail,Vear· 100wId.
Segment 5 round use
Juan WOOdland Trail High ~de to West MaIntenance Ann J9II Preserve 1542 LF 10'+1-_lion Native SolI 6' • Replace
Nallonsl PerIri!eter Trail,Vear· wide drainpipe .
If_Tr.a
SegmentS Boundary round ..... -Moderate Hardened
Trail· Melt GaleCfllOak 3710.LF 10'''''· Maintenance Trail Tread, • Rehardened • Repla""
Segment 1 .Trail UlllityTraI~ 10'_ Trail Tread Galee
SEoaaonal use
High
North GalewayTrail fll Maintenance NatIve SolI 4' Perimeter NP Stanford :J608LF <4' . RecreatIon wide Trd Peal_Trail TraiI,Vear·
round use
Por1ola Por1oI._ High Native SolI'" Melntenance
__ a
Paslu,,", PPI _Acedto 365lF NA RecreatIon wIde&.-repIaca bridge .. -~ Trail· Por1oIa PaatIJ"" Trail,Vear· equea1rian req. co"""waIIs
Segmenll Segment 2 round use bridge
Portola Portol. Pastur .. High
MaIntenance Puture.e PP2 Segment 2 fll 1016LF <4' Recreation Native SoM 4'
Trell· Juan Bautis'a Trall,Vear· wide
Segmenl2 deAnza TraU round use
Par1cJng lotto High
Stanford Preserve Maimenance Native SolI 4-P .. lures SP 1773lF 10'+1-Recreation
Trail Bounda'Y with Trail, Year· 6'wIde
Stanford Lande round use
_ .. Ie Malnten.mce T .. II ;
Moderate
s.oyLear AcomTrallfll Maintenance Native 50114' .~,epl~ce Trail BaLI Meadowlark 87aLF <4' Recreation wide Segment 1 Trail Tra",
Seasonal use
FIfllII __ Preserve Trails I\Ianagement Program
Trail Maintenance Programs
Replaoo
Drinking
Fountains &
Water Trough.
(5-10 ye.rs)
Repla""
Benchoa, T .... h
Cans, & Signs
(4-ay .... )
• Rep ..... Signs
• Replace SIgna
_ Replace
Signa
a Replace
Signa
a Replace
SIgna
• Replace Signa
• Rep ..... Signa
March 2001
6·80
Trail Segment' Segment
BayLaaf
Troll· BaL2
Segmen!2
BayV'1eW
Troll BV
Bowl
Challenge BL
Troll
Inspiration
Poin! Trail
IP
Meadowlarl<
Troll· MoL2
Sagment2
Oak Trail o.
Woodland
Tral~ Wol
Segment 1
Woodland
Troll· W02
Segmen!2
Final
Ataslerdero Preser.e Trails Management Program
Trail MaIntenance Programs
Table 7 Trail Implementation Program -Recommended Cyclical Maintenance Improvements (Continued)
Propooed
Oe-'pt!on TI1III Ex. TI1III Propooed Troll Wldthl Cyclical Malnlenon"" Impl'OWlmentl Length WIdth Troll Typo Surface
Treatment
ReplaC<! R .. t"",ma 80 Aetlurface
Replace Gravel Poll<ing lot
RepIo"" Punch .. ns, (Theaol""""""monto are related to
Replace Bridges 80 Culv-. Board_Dol, !he propaoed Gateway Projoet
Reourfaco Harderuld drainpipe, SWItchback come Implementation. Currently !he
trails (15-20 yOOl1l) bollardo. got .. WIllis. Cuncrete P"""'''''' ..... por1Ablo toilets.
(1D-1Sy"'" P.""", Parl<lng 101._ & configuration
(1 D-15 yea ... ) sredoterminadbyGsleway
Projoet) (20-25y.a ... )
Madera!e --Maintenance Native Soil 4' Troll to 826LF <4' flecreation
Woodland Troll Troll, wide
Seasonal use
Moderate
Juan BauIIs1. Maintenance Native Soil 4' de Anz.TroII to 1510LF <4' -wide Corte Madera Troll, .
Seasonal use
MadOtllte
Meadow Lar1< Maintenance
Troll 10 CakT .... 7399LF <4' -Native Soil
Troll,
Seasonaluao
Spur off ModOtllte
Mslntanance MeadowLarl< ssOLF <4' RecreaIIon Native Soil 4'
Troll N .. , Old Troll, wide
earnS"" SeaaonaI use
MadOtllte
Oak TraD to Bay Maintenance Native Soil 4' • Raptace 4586LF <4' RecreaIIon LaafTrall Troll, wide Bollard.
Seasonal use
Moderate
MeadowLall< Maintenance Native BoU' T",II to Sebay lB04LF NA Recreation
lake Tran Troll, wide
Seasonal use
High Hardened .
Gste Bto Bay 1478LF 10' .... • Maintenance Trail Tread, • R ..... rdenTrall • Ropleco
loa/Trail U1iItlyTralI, 10'wide Treed BoIIMl.
Seasonal use
Moderate
Bay Leaf Troll Maintenance Native Boil 4' to_Loll< 1671 LF <4' Reorestlon
Troll Troll; wide
Seasonal use
Replace
Drinking
Fountains 80
Watar Troug ....
(5-10y ..... )
Replace
Benches, Trash
Cans. 80 Signs
(4-8 YOOIlI)
." ..
• Raptace
Signs
• Repleco Signs
• Raptace SIgns
• Rapteco Slgns,b_
• Replace Signs
• Rapteco Signs
• Replace Signs
• Repleco
Signs
March 2001
6·81
7 Trail Maintenance Techniques and Tools
7. Trail Maintenance Techniques and Tools
Final
7.1 Overview
This section of the ,trails management plan includes descriptions and illustrative
diagrams to guide the development and maintenance of the Preserve trail system.
Examples of tread ~urface improvements, drainage structures, bridges, and
horizontal and vertical guidelines for clearing and brushing are provided to give
better clarity to the recommended program tasks described in Section 6. These are
guidelines. They provide general direction, but cannot be substituted for field
investigations and construction drawings developed to address specific site
conditions.
General Techniques for Performing Trail Maintenance
Trail construction and maintenance work should be undertaken in a manner that . . .
minimizes resource damage and efficiently utilizes on-site materials. Environmental
damage and user conflicts can be kept to a minimum through careful construction
techniques. Areas that are wet, located on steep slopes, characterized by poor soils or
which support fragile vegetation require particularly careful and sometimes costly
construction and maintenance techniques.
The worst sections in terms of resourc.e damage should be repaired first. Areas that
require cuts should be worked initially so that the excess material can be used in fill
sections .. Prior to placing fill material, drainage structures should be installed to
accelerate the hardening of the fill soils and provide better finishing conditions.
Trail construction and maintenance work should be performed so that each section of
trail is fully completed. New sections of trail should be completed and allowed to
"cure" prior to closing and restoring alternative trail routes. Whether new
construction or maintenance, the finished product should be free of construction
scars, provide for maximum erosion control, encourage the growth of native
vegetation and-reduce future maintenance and resource rehabilitation needs. Ideally
the trail will appear to have been in place a long time, with natural conditions
prevailing along the side.
7.2 Improving Access and Accessibility
Access Defined
Access as it relates to the Preserve is defined as providing a means for the public to .
enter and have passage through the variety of natural environments that the Preserve
March 200t
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Techniques and Tools
7-1
Final
has to offer. Access as defined here also pertains to proving adequate means for
authorized City maintenance and emergency staff to enter the Preserve in their
vehicles and be able to perform necessary routine and emergency procedures. Within
the boundaries of this Preserve access is to be provided by means of a contiguous
system of unpaved, 4-foot and 6-foot wide recreation trails and hardened 1O-foot
wide maintenance access trails.
To elaborate, the trail development and maintenance program should strive to:
• Provide safe entry to and passage through the Preserve
• Accommodate a variety of skill levels regardless of their physical limitations
• Offer an opportunity for tranquil study and nature observation, well as provide
"challenging" trail experiences
• Provide access to key points of interest including:
• Arastradero Lake
• The "bowl"
• Viewpoints sU:h as the overlook near the old house site and the
StanfordlPreserve boundary
• Maximize use of the utility access routes for public recreational use without
adversely impacting the Utility Department operations or the natural environment
• Provide adequate emergency ~ccess and passage for the City Fire Department to
be able to respond to fues and life safety emergencies
Accessing the Preserve
Arastradero Road cuts through the Preserve. The parking lot is located north of
Arastradero Road while most of the Preserve lies on the south side of the road.
Arastradero Road is a two-lane connector between Page Mill Road in Los Altos Hills
and Alpine Road in Portola Valley. It is a popular on-street bicycle route. The road
has no posted speed limit in the area where the primary trail crossings are located.
Because Arastradero Road divides the Preserve at key entry points, safety
improvements are needed to make the connection between the northern and southern
sections of the Preserve and for bicyclists to enter from the road onto the Preserve
trail system.
As there is currently no posted speed limit for the road and no current data on motor
vehicle and bicycle use of the road, a traffic engineering study is recommended to
validate the proposed Preserve entry treatments where they interface with the
roadway system.
Crosswalks
Crosswalk enhancements are recommended as a means to make a safer connection
across Arastradero Road between the northern and southern parts of the Preserve'for
March 2001
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Techniques and Tools
7-2
Final
all trail users including pedestrians, equestrians and bicyclists. Crosswalks should be
consiqered in two locations:
• The primary entry to the Preserve from the parking lot at Gate A -retain existing
• The Portola Stables Drive at the Preserve boundary -subject to further study
The design for the crossing enhancements should incorporate the safety
improvements, as required, after a traffic study including traffic counts and speed
counts has been completed. These crossings will need to follow the mid-block
crosswalk guidelines recently adopted by the City Council. Some of the
enhancements which may occur include:
• Trail crosswalks that are a minimum of 10 feet wide and painted to highlight the
crossing
• Special crosswalk treatments that are coordinated with the City Transportation
Division to ensure that will meet with City standards
• Clearing vegetation to maintain a clear sight distance for 200 feet (or more
depending on the r¢commendation of a traffic engineering study) at all points
where trails meet Arastradero Road. Riparian vegetation that is removed to
improve sight distance shall be replaced elsewhere on the stream corridor, in the
near vicinity, if possible
• A posted speed limit for motorists along Arastradero Road between the Los Altos
Hills Town limit and 200 feet west of the junction with Juan Bautista de Anza
Trail (or in accordance with the results of the traffic engineering study)
• Additional caution signs for motorists at an optimum of 100 feet before entering
the "Preserve Crossing Zone" (speed bumps andlor clatter bars are not
recommended because they pose hazards to bicyclists) ,
• Warning signs for trail users on the trail at an optimum of 100 feet before the
road crossings
• Bike crossing signs (W791W80) at where access is provided from Juan Bautista
de Anza National Historic Trail Segments 1 and 6
• Upright visual identity markers (such as a large sign or other vertical
object(s)that enhance Preserve identity) in the vicinity of the crosswalk that do
not compromise sight distance for either the trail users or motorists
Bicycle Crossings
In addition to the formalized Arastradero Road crossings, bicyclists travelling on
Arastradero Road to access the Preserve will need to transition from a Class II bike
lane (at the Los Altos Hills town boundary) or a Class ill bike route (at the western
boundary of the Pres~rve). These crossings should be designed to promote a safe
transition from the Preserve to the roadway system, but should not be designed to
promote pedestrian or equestrian crossings.
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Techniques and Tools
March 2001
7-3
Final
These Preserve entry points should be designed to include:
• A well-defined, 6 -foot wide tread that has been adequately cleared and brushed
and identified as the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail on the south
side of Arastradero Road as it extends into the Town of Los Altos Hills to the
east and the Town of Portola Valley as it continues to the west
•
•
Signage that designates the rreserve trail system as a shared use facility that
welcomes pedestrians, equestrians, bicyclists and dogs on leash and designates an
established pattern for trail users to yield to each other
Adequate directional, safety and regulatory definition between trail and road
system including:
• Clearing vegetation to maintain a clear sight distance between trail users and
drivers for 200 feet or more depending on the prevailing speed of the
motorists
• Posting warning signs for trail users on the trail at an optimum of 100 feet
before the road crossin~s
• Installing addi~onal caution signs for motorists at an optimum of 100 feet
before the entering the "Preserve Crossing Zone"
• Visual identity markers such as a large sign or other vertical object(s) in the
vicinity of the Preserve entry (Placement must enhancement Preserve identity
without compromising the sight distance between trail users and drivers)
• A respite on the north side of Arastradero Road for bicyclists to wait for a
safe time to cross the road
No public entry should be designed in conjunction with the emergency Imaintenance
vehicle access at Gate B due to poor sight distances and lack of connections to any
external trail system or trail user facility (such as the equestrian center at Portola
Stables).
Neighborhood Connections
There are three proposed points of entry into the Preserve that do not connect to
Arastradero Road. These potential and existing connections may in the future or now
provide access to:
• The Town of Los Altos Hills Trail system at the east Preserve boundary where
Corte Madera Trail terminates (existing)
• Stanford lands at the north Preserve boundary where Stanford Pastures Trail
terminates (potential)
• Foothills Park at the south Preserve boundary where Sobey Pond Trail (hiking
only) terminates (potential)
These entry points should be designed to include the following design features:
• A well-defined, 6 -foot wide tread that has been adequately cleared and brushed
March 2001
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Techniques and Tools
7-4
Final
• Signage that designates the Preserve trail system as a shared use facility that
welcomes pedestrians. equestrians. bicyclists and dogs on leash and designates an
established pattern for trail users to yield to each other
• Narrow public trail entry points (5 feet optimum) and signing to discourage
unauthorized vehicular entry
• Visual identity markers such as a large sign or other vertical object(s) in the
vicinity of the Preserve entry
Promoting Accessibility
All entry points.into the Preserve should be developed so that there are no physical
obstructions (such as log motorcycles barriers or gates with difficult latches)
. precluding entry by people with mobility limitations. Remedial actions should
include:
• Correcting existing transitions between the paved edges along Arastradero Road
and the trail so that these two surfaces are flush and mirror the trail width at a
minimum
• Removing log motorcycles barriers and bollards
• Narrowing the public trail entry points to 5 feet and signing the entry to
discourage unauthorized vehicular entry
• Eliminate any physical obstructions greater than 2" in height along the primary
route of travel
At Gate A, which serves as the primary access into the Preserve, special care should
be taken to design an accessible route of travel. Remedial actions to the primary
access route from the parking lot into the Preserve should include:
• Removing existing barriers (e.g. log barriers and uneven surfaces a road edges) at
the trail junctions with Arastradero Road
• Regrading the trail to provide a gradient of less than 8% along the entire trail
segment
• Maintaining a minimum trail width of 6 feet
Within the Preserve, on those trails designated High Maintenance, the trail design
should provide, as environmentally appropriate:
• Level passing/rest areas every 1,000 feet where the trail width is less than 5 feet
and where sight lines and/or adjacent side slopes do not allow for other users to
step off the trail to allow for wheelchairs/strollers to pass
• A trail surface that is firm and stable enough to provide traction and free
movement of wheels so as to accommodate a wheelchair during the dry season
Refer to Figure 1 -Hardened Trail Tread for prototypical "all-weather" accessible
trail surface design guidelines.
Arastradero Preserve TraiJs Management Program
Trail Maintenance Techniques and Tools
March 2001
7-5
,---~----3" Compacted aggregate surface
stabilized with hardened "natural
appearing" tread surface material
,---------4" Compacted class II aggregate
base course compacted to 95%
5'-0" Min.
Max. allowable
cross slope: 2%
.....
SECTION I ELEVATION '-----Non-woven geotextlle fabric
'-------Compacted subgrade
'----------Collector ditch lined with geotextlle
Note:
Collector Ditch: size appropriately to avoid failure. Size
of collector ditch should be reviewed and certified by a
registered civil, solis, or hydraulics engineer to match
site specific conditions. Factors to be considered will
Include: water flow and debris load of watershed area.
fabric and covered with gravel;
depth and width of channel will vary
with specific site conditions
HARDENED TRAIL TREAD
SCALE: 3/4" = 1'-0"
Final
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Plan
Trail Maintenance Techniques and Tools
FIGURE 1
March 2001
7-6
Final
Acc"mntodating Patrol, Emergency and Maintenance Vehicle Access .
To ensure that the existing trails within utility corridors are maintained for year-
round use utilizing the most skilled, cost effective and environmentally sound trail·
maintenance techniques, develop a formal maintenance agreement that will clarify
maintenance responsibilities. The agreement shopld be developed so that future
"road maintenance work" on maintenance access trails is performed by the Public
Works Department. The work should done in conformance with the guidelines set
forth in this handbook. Patrol, maintenance and emergency access should consist of
keeping access into and through the Preserve serviceable by:
• Providing a 40 to 45 foot "drive" between Arastradero Road and Access Gates A
and B to provide a safe place for staff to safely park their vehicles when opening
the Preserve entry gates
• Ensuring that all 6 access points can accommodate fire, utility, construction and
maintenance vehicles at all times. These access points include: .
• The parking lo,t
• The access gate north of Arastradero Road west of the parking lot
• Gate A (access limited to the existing turn-around on the west side of the first
concrete bridge spanning Arastradero Creek)
• Gate B, which serves as the.primary Utility Department access
• Gate C, which is located off John Marthens Lane
• Vista Hills Trail Gate D in Foothills Park
• Using a uniform maintenance gate at all major entry points with a universal
locking device to facilitate routine and emergency access into the Preserve by
multiple department staff
• Maintaining the following maintenance access trails as "all-weather maintenance
access trails" suitable for year -round maintenance access and year-round trail
use:
• The maintenance access trail that parallels· Arastradero Creek between
Arastradero Lake and Gate D Vista Hills Trail in Foothills Park (Arastradero
Creek Trail Segments 2 & 3)
• The maintenance access trail from Gate A to the existing turn-around on the
west side of the fIrst cement bridge spanning Arastradero Creek Lake (Juan
Bautista de Anza Trail Segment 2)
• The maintenance access trail that extends east from Gate B to Arastradero
Lake (Juan Bautista de Anza Trail Segment 5 and Acorn Trail Segment 1)
and west from Gate B to the junction with the Woodland Trail (Juan Bautista
de Anza Trail Segment 5)
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Techniques and Tools
March 2001
7-7
Final
• Maintaining the following as maintenance access trails for year-round
maintenance and hiking access and seasonal bike and equestrian use:
•. The road that extends from the old barn site to John Marthens Lane
(emergency vehicle access only) (Meadowlark Trail Segment 1)
• Maintaining the following as maintenance access trails for year-round
maintenance access and seasonal trail use:
• The maintenance access trail that services the water tank (Woodland Trail
Segment 1)
• Maintaining the existing compacted aggregate trail tread to provide a finn and
stable surface and/or consider surfacing the trail with a hardening solution to
improve the fIrmness and stability of the surface if the soils are limiting year-
round use. The hardener should have a natural appearance and no water quality
impacts. Refer to Table 8 Trail Surface Synopsis for tread surfacing options.
• Closing, restoring and annually mowing designated emergency access routes
within the Preserve as needed to create a circulation route for vehicles in the
case of emergency
• Providing emergency road turn arounds in a hammer head confIguration to
facilitate patrol, construction, maiutenance and emergency operations. To
minimize potf!ntial impacts to the natural resources, these designated vehicle
turn-arounds will be the only acceptable turning points for motor vehicles within
the Preserve. The fInal siting of the new turn-arounds (#2, 5 and 9) should be
flagged prior to construction and the Open Space Division Superintendent
should be advised of pending construction. Each turn-around should be clearly
delineated and mapped to prevent removal of or impact to sensitive biological
resources. Refer to Table 9 -Vehicle Turn~around Design Summary.
• Recognizing that these turn~arounds are to be used for routine maintenance,
construction and patrol. In special circumstances where larger fIre trucks and
over sized utility vehicles must access the Preserve, these vehicles may not be
able to use the tum-arounds and will have to travel through the Preserve in a one
way direction. In this case it is recommended that the vehicles enter and leave
through Gates B and D. In the case of a wildfIre, public safety will override
resource protection. In this case the Fire Department may be required to override
these vehicle guidelines to be able to suppress a fIre.
• Informing all maintenance, inspection, construction, patrol and environmental
education staff and contractors of appropriate entry points, access routes and
March 2001
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Techniques and Tools
7-8
Final
enforcing the restrictions on vehicle use in the Preserve. All staff and contractors
should be provided with summary copies of this handbook containing at a
minimum:
• Section 4.S-Managing to Meet Multiple Department Objectives -
Coordinating with the Fire Department
• Section 4.6 Managing to Meet Multiple Department Objectives -
Coordinating with the Utility Department
• Map 4-Fire Protection & Emergency & Maintenance
• Table 9 -Vehicle Turn-around Design Summary
• Stipulating that only the designated tum-arounds are to be used for turning
vehicles and equipment around on any Preserve contracts for maintenance,
inspection, construction, patrol and environmental education.
• Permitting temporary closures when there is a threat to public safety in order to
facilitate:
• Routine maintenance of the utility equipment and maintenance access trails
•. Repair of storm damaged utility infrastructure
• Moving heavy equipment or materials through the Preserve to perform
maintenance on the infrastructure
Refer to Map 4 Fire Protection & Emergency & Maintenance Access for
• Emergency/maintenance access points of entry
• Trail travel routes to be maintained for use by the Fire Department and Utility
Department when servicing the Preserve
• Disk lines
• Sensitive resource areas in the Preserve that should not be accessed by heavy
vehicles
Refer to Figure 2 -Gates & Entry Treatments for gated entries that will
accommodate patrol, construction, maintenance and emergency vehicles. Refer to
Figure 3 -Standard 'Hammerhead' Turn-around for the design of a turn-around that
will accommodate maintenance and emergency vehicles.
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Techniques and Tools
March 2001
7-9
Regulatory "STOP
AHEAD" sign
Emergency access vehlcular'----------
gate wi universal lock
(:) • !¥
Tubular steel vehicular
malntenancel emergency
access gate.
PLAN
10'·0"
.~
I-
14'·0"
, dOIS,
Street
Maintenance
Vehicle Gate
12'·0"
Trail
SECTIONI ELEVATION
~Trallld.ntltY marker
5'·0"
Split rail fence
r Preserve identity J sign
Posts 6' on center
Split rail fence
TRAIL GA TES & ENTRY TREA TMENTS
SCALE: 1" = 10'-0"
Final
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Plan
Trail Maintenance Techniques and Tools
FIGURE 2
March 2001
7-10
24'-0"
Notes:
100'·0"
Face of berm or edge
of trail (typical)
Feather back
Into 10' wide
trail
1. Native vegetation shall be used as necessary to soften the visual impact of the turnaround,
as directed by the Parks and Open Space Department. Such vegetation shall consist of native
species, be similar to existing nearby vegetation, and be placed In a natural design In order to
prevent the vegetation itself from creating an adverse visual impact.
2. None of the turn-a rounds shall be paveed except #8, which is an existing paved access·
encircling the water tank. Turn-around #8 is not suitable for Type 3 & 4 vehicles due to the
tight turning radius.
STANDARD 'HAMMERHEAD' TURN-AROUND
SCALE: 1" =20'·0"
Final
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Plan
Trail Maintenance Techniques and Tools
FIGURE 3
March 2001
7-11
Final
7.3 Trail Tread Construction Techniques
Trail Tread and Trail Bed Defined
The tread is the portion of the trail on which people actually travel. The trail bed
encompasses the trail tread, along with the soil underneath and around it.
Elements of Trail Tread Construction and Maintenance
Tread maintenance should consist of keeping the tread surface serviceable by:
• Maintaining trail tread width to a minimum of 4 to 6 feet
• Maintaining safe access at trail entry points
• Restoring uniform outsloped, insloped or crowned surfaces
• Maintaining the backslope (angle of repose) and removing slough deposits
• Correcting entrenched trails to provide positive drainage
• Filling ruts and holes in the tread
• Removing and spreading slough deposits on the trail tread to allow· drainage
patterns to work as intended
• Installing and maintaining water bars and water dips
• Cutting loose, exposed tree roots
• Restoring sections of tread damaged by slides, uproots, and washouts,
. • Removing loose rocks .
• ' Restoring fill approaches to puncheons and bridges
These ongoing maintenance procedures will typically result in minimizing resource
impacts, public hazards and use conflicts and lower the need for major, ongoing
expensive and labor intensive corrective maintenance.
Refer to Figure 4 -Trail Structure Terminology for an explanation of trail terms.
The remainder of this sub-section is laid out to provide recommended actions in a
combined format of text and illustrations for typical trail tread conditions.
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Techniques and Tools
March 2001
7-12
_Out slope .... --~ ...... ~~-----
~ Collector ditch
"'" /~pe_ ~ ~ ..... --Crowned slope
..,..--....
a a <l
-I I
Clearing Limit Clearing Limit
Uphill Downhill
....... IIII.U Width
CutSlope--
Trail Grade =
Trail Example: 8.33% =
Run (12')
. SECTION -LENGTHWISE
TRAIL STRUCTURE TERMINOLOGY
SCALE: 114" ::; 1 '-0" .
Final
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Plan
Trail Maintenance Techniques and Tools
Rise
Run
l'
12'
FIGURE 4
March 2001
7-13
Final
Trail Condition: Breakdown of Outside Edge of Trail
Recommended action for breakdown of outside edge of trail:
• Select full bench trail construction, when and where practical, rather than 3/4 or
112 (balanced section) bench tread to avoid breakdown of outside edge by
mountain bikers who tend to ride on the outer edge of the tread to keep their
inside pedal from scraping Pte backslope. ,
Refer to Figure 5 -Trail Tread ,and Side Slopes for full bench construction
techniques.
Trail Condition: Excessive Trail Grade
Recommended action for excessive trail grade:
• Incorporate switchbacks into the trail design to reduce the trail grade where
severe constraints eliminate other grading options. Space switchback turns to
provide gradual climbs and barriers to discourage shortcuts. When the terrain
requires the use 0f.switchbacks, provide a gradual curve with a turning radius
that will minimize skidding or braking by bicyclists, where feasible.
• Where wider turns are not practical, consider installing cribbing (treated timber
wall construction with four-by-four boards to reduce resource impacts caused by
mountain bicyclists cutting the switchback or riding on the outer edge.
Refer to Figure 5 -Trail Tread and Side Slopes-Typical Cross Sections and Figure 6 -
Switchbacks: Trail Stability on Excessive Slopes for recommendations on designing
Switchbacks.
Trail Condition: Handling ~xcess Material
Recommended action for handling excess material:
• Make every effort to utilize excess materials (i.e. rock, dirt topsoil and duff) on
the trail prior to casting it aside or importing materials from another location
• Ensure that native soils are compacted to 95% minimize future erosion
Post Construction Curing Period
Once the trail has been constructed it should not be opened for public use until:
• The trail has had adequate time to "cure" or harden
• Desired drainage patterns have become established
• Vegetation on side slopes is providing adequate cover to minimize erosion and
potential off-tr~l use. . ""
Typically this curing period should occur over a minimum of one winter season.
After the first winter season and prior to opening the trailto the public, corrective
action should taken where ever the trail design is not performing to the intended
design standard.
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Techniques and Tools
March 2001
7-14
1:1 Back Slope
30% Side Slope
20%-5% Side Slope
"11-1111 111_
Trail bed wloutslope shown _'_' '_, _I..U..I.....-<::.-
for all grades and slopes
ct
1
I
I
I 3/4 Bench
1 1/2:1 Fill Slope
Note: Amount of bench varies linearly with percent of side slope. AI) fill to be soli wI no vegetative debris.
Amount of cross slope varies with trail type and overall gradient of trail.
TRAIL TREAD & SIDE SLOPES -TYPICAL CROSS SECTIONS
SCALE: 1/4" = 1 '-0"
Final .
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Plan .
Trail Maintenance Techniques and Tools
FIGURE 5
March 2001
7-15
Notes:
Minimum Radius (r)
Cross Slope
of Hillside Radius
15-25%
>25%
Minimum trail
center line
radius
PLAN
(
\
SCALE: 1/16" = 1'-0"
r-----Retain barriers such as rocks,
plant materials or fences to
discourage shrotcuts between
switchback levels.
1. Provide switchbacks In areas of steep slopes to reduce trail grade. Space switchback turns to provide
long gradual climbs.
2. Use where severe constraints eliminate other grading options.
3. Optimum use on 4-foot to 6-foot wide compacted native soil recreation trails; not suitable for 10-foot wide
utility trails.
SWITCHBACKS: TRAIL STABILITY ON EXCESSIVE SLOPES
SCALE: AS NOTED
Final
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Plan
Trail Maintenance Techniques and Tools
FIGURE 6
March 2001
7-16
Final
Trail Condition: Entrenched Trail
Reco1llIl1ended action for an entrenched trail:
• Remove and spread deposits of soil berm found on the outside edge of the trail
over the width of the trail to produce the intended drainage surface
• Drain and fill low spots in the trail tread capable of holding surface water with
mineral soils andlor rock not exceeding 2 inches in diameter
• Fill and resurface ruts and ht?les. gullies and other damage to the tread occurring
through normal use exposure
• Where incision is occurring on a slope, after filling incision, provide drain dips or
water bars every 50 feet at end of dry season to dissipate water and prevent
ftutherentrenchment
• Where incision occurs in a flat area, regrade the trail tread in a crown formation
to facilitate draining water off the trail
Refer to Figure 7 ~ Entrenched Trail Repair -Flat Areas for recommendations on .
correcting an entrench~ trail.
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Techniques and Tools
March 2001
7-17
Compacted Native 80il---,
Notes:
i
2
(,)
2% Max .....
I' '
1. In correcting an entrenched trail in a flat area, water must also be diverted every 50'-100'
upslope wi water bars or drain dips to dissipate volume of water reaching flat areas.
2. Place temporary water bars across repaired trail until fill Is thoroughly compacted through
use and run-off pattern has been established directing water off trail.
ENTRENCHED TRAIL REPAIR ~ FLAT AREAS
SCALE: 114" = 1'-0"
Final
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Plan
Trail Maintenance Techniques and Tools
FIGURE 7
March 2001
7-18
Final
Trail Condition: Multiple Parallel Trails or Overwide Trails
Recommended action for multiple, parallel trails:
• Narrow trail to the standard width of 4 -6 feet by pulling in part of the "sidecast"
if the trail is cut into a side slope. Where plants are present, they should first be
removed with their root ball intact and replanted in to the remaining side slope.
In open areas, if it is· a no-cut, no-fill trail, narrow trail to the standard width of 4
-6 feet by scarifying the redundant trail alignments to break up the compacted
soils and allow new vegetation to grow. Reestablish vegetation with native
species appropriate to the specific site. In some instances it may be necessary to
block the extra trail width with natural debris such as down logs, limbs brush and
rock to discourage further use. Place material in a scattered or irregular pattern so
it does not look artificial. Partially bury rocks and logs with weathered side
placed up.
• Install signs stating "Area Closed: Habitat Restoration" at trail junctions leading
into the restoration area.
Refer to Figure 8 -Restoration Plan -Trails Closed/or Permanent Abandonment or
Re-Route for recommendations on trail restoration. Refer to Figure 18 ,·Prototypical
Educational Signs for guidelines on developing informational signs.
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Techniques and Tools
New
Trail
Alignment
Scarify old trail bed to be revegetated -----"
to reduce soil compaction. Seed former
trail bed with native plant materials
appropriate to the site.
Old trail bed to be .tilled or dug up -----/
to reduce soli compaction
Compacted native soil berm
Log or branches Installed to restrict
trail use and protect transplants
Rocks placed to protect transplants
Trail to be abandoned and restored
RES TORA TION PLAN -TRAILS CLOSED FOR PERMANENT ABANDONMENT OR RE-ROUTE
SCALE: 1/4" = 1'-0"
Final
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Plan
Trail Maintenance Tecbniques and Tools
FIGURE 8
March 2001
7~20
Final
Trail Condition: Wet Soils
Recommended action for wet soils:
• Consider using trail paver blocks, puncheons (it timber structure built close to the
ground) or rock drains to protect trail surfaces from erosion. These solutions can
be used effectively on sections of wet, boggy trails that are critical to the High
Maintenance Trail to improve year-round accessibility. Puncheons, bridges or
other elevated trail structures may be the only appropriate solution where the trail
cannot otherwise be drained.
Refer to Figure-9 Rock Drain (sometimes referred to as a French Drain)and Figure
10 -Puncheon for recommendations on drainage structures.
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Techniques and Tools
March 2001
7-21
~~~IIIIII~~;::=-Soil and gravel cap
:: Geotextile fabric
SECTION
ROCKDRAIN
NO SCALE
Final
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Plan
. Trail Maintenance Techniques and Tools
Geotextile fabric
Native soil
FIGURE 9
March 2001
7-22
60"
4" X 6" Bull Rall---~~
52"
2" x4" Stock-------__
4" x 6" Tread De,cklng ----------:::::;:;F==-_:~El:I.-----+_-I::8:L.j.. 3jj"Min~
Soil Dam Beyond ~~ i IIII
4" X 8" Stringers --------P-r='T'T"I'T"==TTTT~T'I"T'""'=I==TTTT"=_rT,...,...",c:: /111 ~
10" x 10" Mud SIII------
SECTIONI ELEVATION 'C' -END VIEW
Soil Dam
10" x 10" Mud Sill
..
G
-I-
I
II II I
-
I I I I I I
1111-1111-1111 o
q
--
I
I J I I
I
II
HL-l-lJ ... --------1 -
--... _-----------------------I ±L r
4" x 6" Bull Rail
4" x 6" Tread Decking
4" x 8" Stringers
Below
4" X 6" Bull Rail
Above
PLA N IBI
-t-
-.........
I
-I-
5/8" Rebar as reqd.-----~
----
r---.. ( ---... --------------f \
---------------~ I I I I I I
~ 0
9 '-2" O.C.
--------~--
I I I I " I
w
I
I
'--r-
4" x 6" Bull Rail----r:=;;=::..-=---=::::::......~-----....... -___+-__r-__.._-__I
2" x 4" Stock-=:::;:;:~:tf=rr=r=6=r=r~:r=nn=r=r=r;r=r=i=r=TI=r=rfFr=I
4" x 6" Tread Decklng-Tttt-::::::::::::::-t-HH"--lI-.-r
r+-r--~~--------~-r~r--~
Soil Dam Beyond --==:D]r~~hl~1fl~~W~'1 10f~ x 10" Mud Sill
4" x 8" Stringers ---..;.;;-1+'==
Maintain drainage ------------"
channel adequate
for anticipated flow
SECTION! ELEVATION IAI -SIDE VIEW
PUNCHEON
SCALE: 3/8" = 1'-0" FIGURE 10
Final
Arastra<lero Preserve Trails Management Plan
Trail Maintenance Techniques and Tools
March2001 ,
7-23
Final
Trail Condition: Stream Crossings
Recommended actions for Stream Crossings:
• Consider using a bridge or boardwalk to cross creeks or seasonal drainages on a
trail route otherwise considered as part of the "all-weather", accessible trail
system and/or to minimize impacts to sensitive habitat.
• Crossing should be designfd to:
• Meet current safety arid accessibility standards
• Have the structural integrity to accommodate equestrians even where
equestrians are not to be an authorized use
• Allow for wildlife movement within the waterway
• Facilitate accessibility by a wide range of trail users and minimize damage to
sensitive riparian or pond habitat
• Visually and functionally blend with the environment
• Height of bridge railings should be 4'6" minimum where height of bridge is 3
feet above grade
.• Decking, should be.no narrower than the approach to the structure and it should
incorporate "curbing" along the edge of the decking to improve accessibility
• When determining the specific placement of the bridge or boardwalk:
• Locate the structure where the stream is narrow, the channel straight, the
banks high, even and solid
• Perform a biological assessment to guide the placement of the bridge to
ensure that bridge and boardwalk footings avoid special status species to the
maximum extent feasible and removal of riparian vegetation will be avoided
to the greatest extent feasible
• Have a registered hydrological engineer review the design and placement of
the structure to ensure it will meet the design flows anticipated for the creek
• Conduct a pre-construction biological survey for sensitive species along the
. entire trail to ensure compliance with state and federal law (California
Environmental Quality Act, California Department of Fish and Game Code,
Migratory Bird Treaty Act, state and federal Endangered Species Acts).
Obtain environmental regulatory permits as required to perform.construction
work
• Incorporate NPDES "Best Management Practices" when constructing trails
to prevent soils from entering creeks, ponds, lakes and springs and degrading
water quality. Obtain NPDES permits as required to perform construction
work
Refer to Figure 11 -Bridges & Boardwalks for recommendations on designing these
water crossings.
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Techniques and Tools
March 2001
7-24
. SECTION! ELEVATION
SECTIONI ELEVATION
BRIDGES & BOARDWALKS
SCALE: 1" = 10'.0"
Final
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Plan
Trail Maintenance Techniques and, Tools
Bridge width to mirror width of trail
bridge approach at a minimum.
Single-span prefabricated bridge.
Trail
Bridge
Approach
r---Boardwalk width to mirror
width of trail approach at
a minimum
r-----pr4l)VI(~e adequate clearance
to allow for anticipated creek
flows & wildlife movement
,----2'·)(G" Wheel Stop
FIGURE 11
March 2001
7~25
Final
7.4 Grading and Drainage
Trail Grade Defined
Trail grade is the slope maintained by the trail in the direction of travel. It is
measured in percentage (feet change in elevation for every 100 horizontal feet). In
determining the upper limit of the grade, the nature of the trail surface and the
relative degree of traction should be considered. Refer to Section 5 for a more
detailed discussion on soils/slopel;!.
Drainage Defined
Drainage is the control of the flow of water either across, under, through, or around
the trail (or maintenance access route). In dealin~ with drainage it is important to
understand the characteristics of water flow:
• Water flows downhill along the steepest and fastest route available
• . The faster water flows. the more cutting force it develops
• The more solid matter the water carries, the more cutting force it develops
• The greater the volumes of flowing water, the greater cutting force it develops
• Rapidly flowing water resists changing direction
• The slower the water flows, the greater the possibility for water to percolate into
the soil
There is no single factor with as much ability to damage a trail as the unchecked flow
of water. Problems can occur when the trail interrupts the natural drainage process.
Improper drainage design can result in problems of two kinds: flowing water and .
standing water. The trails on hillsides can intercept sheet flow or stream flow and
turn into a stream channel that can erode the trail surface. Trails in flat, low lying
areas can become saturated resulting in wet, slippery, muddy conditions. In general,
the way to minimize water damage is with a trail design that sheds water rapidly,
without permitting. a build-up of velocity or volume.
Grading Techniques
Cuts should be contoured to blend with the natural slopes. Cut banks should be
lightly compacted and covered with a thin layer of duff. New or reworked trail tread
should be compacted to promote sheet run off. Large scale grading is generally
unacceptable. Use of steps is generally unacceptable because it greatly limits
accessibility. Trails designed for areas where the terrain exceeds 50% should be
certified by a registered civil or soils engineer for stability.
Refer to Figure 12 -Grading & Drainage for trail grading and drainage guidelines.
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Techniques and Tools
March 2001
7-26
Optimum Trail Grading
SECTION I ELEVA '-ION
All new trail designs with hillside
cross-slopes In excess of 2:1
must be certified by a registered
civil or solis engineer for stability
1 1/2:1 Fill Slope
For short, relatively flat slopes and hardened
surfaces to meet ADA requirements provide a
1-3% cross-slope for drainage. For back country
and steeper slopes provide a 5-8% cross-slope
for drainage. Water bars may be required.
1'-
Grading for special circumstances such as natural
streams, wet solis or on switchbacks may require
Insloplng and cross trail drainage such as water
bars or culverts to move water off the trail.
TRAIL GRADING & DRAINAGE
SCALE: 1/4" = 1 '-0"
Final
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Plan
Trail Maintenance Techniques and Tools
FIGURE 12
March 2001
7-27
Final
Techniques for Directing the Flow of Water
Following are descriptions and illustrations of many of the standard drainage
techniques used to divert water from the trail to maintain the integrity of the trail in
order of preference. The intent in providing an order of priorities is to use the means
that is least disturbing to the natural environmental. In determining which drainage
facility to use, the order of priorities may not always be possible to follow; depending
on terrain features, volume of water involved and soils characteristics. For example,
water bars may have to be used rather than drain dips where soil lacks cohesion (e.g.
dips may fill in or erode out in sandy soils ). Another example would be where the
slope of the trail would be steeper than the slope of the drain dip.
Outslopin& the Outside Edge of a Trail
Definition. Outsloping is created by developing a downward slope toward the outside
of the trail causing water to runoff the trail tread by sheet flow.
Construction Guidelines. Surface water can be diverted from trails by outsloping the
trail tread between 1 % and 3% where feasible. Outsloping the trail will allow water
to sheet flow along its natural course across the trail and down the slope. Outsloping
the trail can be the quickest and most immediate form of drainage control. Ideally all
tread should be outsloped, but due to certain physical restraints,. this is not always
possible. If the trail surface is dUrable, the backslope stable and the trail traffic is
light and the vegetation cover is sparse, the outs lope is easy to maintain. However, in
areas with heavy traffic, material sloughed off the backslope and dense vegetation
growth on the outside edge of the trail, debris can build up creating a berm that will
obstruct the natural flow of water. This berm and slough material should be
removed.
AdyantagesIDisadyantages. For outsloping to be effective, the trail surface needs to
be reasonably smooth. Even minor ridges, such as tire tracks or windrows left from
grading can cause the water to stand or flow along the trail length. The outside edge
needs to be free of vegetation and obstructions (such as berms, large rocks, and
stumps) which would prevent water from leaving the trail surface.
Refer to Figure 4 -Trail Tenninology and Figure 5 -Trail Tread & Side Slopes for
recommendations on outsloping the outside edge of a trail.
Crowning the Trail
Definition. Crowning is a construction technique used to drain water off the trail bed.
Construction Techniqyes. The highest point is in the center and the sides are typically
sloped out and down at a 1-2% angle. For very wet areas or for trails along level
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Final
terrain, the tread surface may be~ crowned by building it slightly above the ground
level to minimize resource impacts and discourage multiple routes from being
created.
AdvantageslDisadvanta,ges. This technique should only be used in flat areas where
outsloping is impossible because there is not adequate side slope to drain the water
away from the trail. Crowning may also be used in some situations to correct an
entrenched trail. However, on steeper slopes this technique can make travel difficult
and can lead to channeling within the trail tread.
Refer to Figure 4 -Trail Terminology and Figure 7 -Entrenched Trail Repair-Flat
areas for recommendations on crowning the trail.
Drain Drips or Drainage Swales
Definition. A drain dip is a physical structure placed across the trail that turns and
directs the water to the.downhill side of the slope where the slope of the trail tread is
less than 10%. Drain drips share an exaggerated outslope that terminates in a shallow
trough. They are used as an erosion control device where the volume of surface
water runoff is in excess of what a normal outslopecan handle.
Construction Guidelines. Drain drips are designed by reversing the grade of the trail
for 10-20 feet. A drain dip begins on the up trail side with a normal outslope. The
outslope is gradually increased (4%to 10%) as the trail grade is cut and lowered to
create the trough and drainpoint. Ideally drain dips should be located where natural
swales or drainages bisect the trail. The dip is usually accompanied by an outs lope
which diverts the water off the trail tread. Below the drain point, a ditch or drainage
channei must be provided to allow water to escape from the trail and fill slope
without creating undue erosion. This channel may also require armoring with native
rock to reduce scouring and bank erosion. Drain dips should be incorporated into the
initial construction of the trail where the side slopes are gentle and broad enough to
dissipate the water. The terrain and volume of water encountered usually determines
the length and degree of outslope used in the drain dip. Generally steeper terrain and
higher flows require longer drain dips with more outslope.
AdvantageslDisadvantages. They are inexpensive to install but breakdown over time
and must be rebuilt.
Refer to Figure 13 -Drain Dips for guidelines on constructing a drain dip.
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PLAN
Ground Level
Drain point sloped down
trail at 30"-45"
SECTION IAI -LENGTHWISE
DRAINDIP
SCALE: 114" = 1 '-0"
Final
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Trail Maintenance Techniques and Tools
Trench
Direction of
Water Flow
Fan Shaped Rock Energy
Dissipater wI geotechnical
fabric underneath rock
4" Deep @ centerline
of 41 wide trail
=111'
Notes:
1. Dip should be built at a 45 degree
angle from a line perpendicular to the
trail direction.
2. The dip should slope to outside
edge of trail at 15% (min. 8" drop
for 41 wide trail).
3. Not suitable where gradient exceeds
15%. Use waterbars instead.
FIGURE 13
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Final
Water Bars
Definition. Water bars are shallow ditches that cross the trail to direct water to the
downhill side of the trail on running slopes greater than 5%.
Construction Guidelines. Water bars are used to divert water where slopes are too
steep for dnpn dips. The angle of the water bar should be between 15° and 40° to the
run of the slope dependent on the grade of the trail section. Water bars should be built
to emphasize the natural drainage pattern. They must be designed so as not to.
preclude use by bicyclists or persons in wheelchairs. Where water bars are used, rock
or log barriers may be needed beside the structure to keep bicyclists on the trail.
Advantages/Disadyantages. They are inexpensive to install but breakdown over time
and must be rebuilt every year. Unless care is taken in constructing these structures,
they can preclude use by persons in wheelchairs.
Refer to Figure 14 -Eflrthen Water Bars for guidelines on constructing water bars.
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Trench
Earthen waterbar;
extend minimum 12" into
adjacent slope. Skew 45°
to 60° across trail.
Provide waterbars to
direct minor rivulets
across trail tread.
Slope trench 2% or greater
as needed to direct all water
to outlet. .
PLAN
8" min.
EARTHEN WATER BAR
SCALE: 1/4" = 1'-0"
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Fan Shaped Rock Energy
Dissipater wI geotechnical
fabric underneath rock
Earthen water bar
8" min.
FIGURE 14
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Final
Collector Ditches Paralleling the Trail
Definition. Collector ditches are drainage structures designed to intercept water
flowing toward a trail. These drainage structures are typically located along the inside
edge of the tread.
,
Construction Guidelines. Collector ditches consist of an excavated depression that
runs parallel to the trail tread. It must be wide enough to carry the anticipated
volume of water and maintain a ditch bank slope of 1: 1. The trail water is usually
channeled from the ditch through a culvert underneath the trail. In some cases water
can be conveyed across the trail using water bars places at approximately 25 foot
intervals. Where soils are highly erosive, the ditch should be liried with rock or
check dams. For a ditch to work effectively, it needs to drop at a rate of 3% or
greater. The water fiowingin a ditch needs to maintain its speed at all times to
prevent it from dropping the solid matter it is carrying and filling the ditch. To
maintain the effectiven~ss of these ditches, keep ditches short and discharge the
accumulated water away from the trail at frequent intervals and correctly size
culverts or water bars to accommodate flows.
AdvaIitageslDisadvantages.
Collector ditches can cause problems in that they are designed to accumulated water
instead of disperse it, thereby greatly increasing the potential for erosion.
Additionally, all culverts must be cleaned out at least annually before the winter
storm season to maintain the structural integrity of the trail.
Refer to Figure 1 -Hardened Trail Tread and Figure - 4 Trail Structure
Terminology for recommendations on parallel ditches.
Culverts
Definition. Culverts are sub-grade structures placed under and generally
perpendicular to the trail bed. They serve as passageways for conveying water under
the trail. Culverts can be made of plastic, concrete, metal, stone or other materials
that can be made to support the trail and provide a non-erosive passageway. The most
common culverts are corrugated metal pipes.
Construction Guidelines. In selecting the appropriate culvert for a site, the two most
critical elements are diameter, which governs the volume of flow and the length.
Culverts should be installed to follow the natural watercourse to allow for an
unobstructed water flow .. The minimum culvert slope is 2%. Culverts should be
installed with an inlet and an outlet with a splash apron or rock energy dissipater that
extends from the pipe a minimum distance equal to the diameter of the culvert.
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Final
When sizing the culvert the following factors should be taken into consideration:
water flow and debris load of watershed area.
AdvantageslDisadvantages. If culverts are installed correctly they will work well to
move large quantities of water. They can serve to redirect water and divert it to the
downhill slope to join natl,rral surface flows. They can also be used to intercept
subterranean springs. Culverts must be sized correctly to work effectively and they
must be cleaned out at lea~t annually before the winter storm season to maintain the
structural integrity of the trail. If culverts are located in a watershed area containing
a lot of debris and sediment, they will require even more frequent maintenance. Any
culvert that crosses a natural stream channel may require a Stream Alternation
Agreement with the Department of Fish and Game.
Refer to Figure 15 -Culvert Cross Section for recommendations on culverts.
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Culvert crossings of small
streams and drainages.
Note:
Reinforce downstream
spillway with rocks or
native vegetation
Geotextile fabric beneath
rocks
Culvert Design: Size appropriately to avoid failure. Size of
culvert, slope, bedding material and cover should all be
reviewed and certified by a registered civil, solis, or
hydraulics engineer to match site specific conditions. Factors
to be considered will include: water flow and debris load of
watershed area.
For maintenance trails where utility vehicles will cross
provide l' minimum cover for culvert or 1/2 the diameter of
the pipe.
CUL VERT CROSS SECTION
SCALE: 1" = 10'·0"
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FIGURE 15
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Final
7.5 Vegetation Management
Brushing and Clearing Defined
Brushing and clearing constitutes the removal of vegetative materials as required to
provide adequate vertical and horizontal clearance for safe passage along a trail.
Techniques for Maintaining a Clear Passageway
Vegetation on the south sides of the trail should be pruned to allow passage, but
should be preserved, as much as possible, to protect the aesthetic quality of the trail.
Typically vegetation is cleared to a height of 10 feet and 2 to 3 feet to either side of
the trail edge to accommodate equestrian use. A minimum sight distance of 100 feet
should be maintained, where feasible to facilitate safe shared use of the trail system.
Good pruning practices should be followed, including cutting branches almost flush
with the limb, and cutting stumps at groll:nd level or below. Large limbs should be
pruned almost flush with the trunk. Dead and dying limbs and snags, which may fall
on the trail, should be removed. Typically ground cover plants and low shrubs
should not be removed except on the actual trail tread.
Where specific trail segments (Refer to Section 6) recommend controlling invasive,
non-native plants, the Arastradero Preserve Management Plan management
strategies should be used. This means that vegetation management adjacent to the
trails should be performed in a way that maximizes the safety of the users and
minimizes adverse environmental impacts. Appropriate management techniques
include in order of preference, control with "beneficial insects", where they have
been determined through study not to have detrimental environmental impacts,
removal by hand pulling, or pruning with weed whips or (as a last choice) with
chemicals. When weed whips are employed, a 2-inch minimum cover should be
retained to minimize exposure of bare earth and resulting impacts from splash
erosion and gullying .. Herbicides should only be used as approved by the Open Space
Division Superintendent. In addition, the chemicals must be applied in accordance
with California Stare law and must adhere to the conditions set forth in the City's
"Integrated Pest Management Plan" to ensure the safety of staff, visitors and wildlife
and to reduce or eliminate chemicals from entering the creek.
Where a trail is located on a side slope; the vegetation on the uphill side will be more
invasive and should be cut back more severely than on the downhill side.
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Low growing vegetation should be allowed to return to cut slopes to increase soil
stability. Replant areas with vegetation indigenous to those areas or compatible with
plantings already in place.
Overhanging limbs should be cut back flush with the tree trunk, brush should be
grubbed out and disposed of out of sigh~ of the trail and scattered not stacked. Excess
rock should be disposed of in the same manner as brush and limbs .. All loose roots
protruding over one inch above the trail tread should be cut out to at least 4 inches
beyond the margins of the tread and to a depth of 4 inches below tread level and
removed from the travelway. Holes resulting from root removal should be filled and
compacted with mineral soil and or rock, not exceeding 2 inches in diameter.
Advance warning of all vegetation management activities in the Preserve shall be
given to the Superintendent of the Open Space Division at least one week in advance
of the work.
Refer to Figure 16 -Trail Clearing and Brushing Limits for recommendations on
maintaining a clear passageway.
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<t
I
------------------i------·~·"\-··IIr-,..~~~
Leave trees
greater than
10" D.B.H.
",
"11 1111 . 1111='
:Remove loose rocks ~~&;i<:'i\
and debris that could;:: 1111 =
-slide onto trail. --
I
V
Remove trees
I
I
Trail Tread
4'-0" *
less than
10" D.B;H.
I~IIIIIIII 11111111 11111111111111111111 I ,
-'-'I_Leave low-growmg and_-_ _ _ ~~!~::~::~:r.UI~:S 11111111111111111111111111111111111111 1111111111 1llf 1llf 1llf IIII~
.," -IIII=IIIITIIII 1111 1111 1111 IIII IIII 1111 I
SECTION I ELEVATION Cut brush extending into the
Brush & Lo Removal Limits' U hill Downhill clearing width flush with main
H' h M . t L I 3 1 3 1 stem at a branch fork or at 19 a!n enance eve ground level if no fork at main Moderate Mamtenance Level 21 21 stem.
* Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail tread width = 6'-0" I
utility trail tread width = 10'-0".
TRAIL CLEARING & BRUSHING LIMITS
SCALE: 112" = 1'-0"
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FIGURE 16
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Final
Fuel Management Techniques
Fire prevention methods that should be used at the Preserve include:
• Establishing fire lines on the perimeters of open space lands, leaving the interior
areas in their natural condition. Firebreaks should be disked 24 feet wide or 1112
times the fuel height adjacent to the road, structures and where they can be used
to compartmentalize an area to reduce the risk of a fire igniting and/or spreading.
• Firebreaks should be eliminated where they are not providing any benefit to fire
prevention or suppression. If new activities/developments occur inside or
adjacent to the Preserve perimeters, then the location of the disk lines should be
reevaluated and expanded as appropriate.
• Disking fire lines and mowing fuel reduction zones to compartmentalize the
Preserve for fIre suppression in the event of a fire. Ideally disking should be
performed twice a year, first in late spring and then when the disk lines have
"cured"
• Using herbicides a~ approved by the Superintendent of the Open Division, where
appropriate in implementing the wildland fire prevention plan
In addition, though not currently used, an option should be maintained for the Fire
Department to perform controlled burns in the future as part of their overall fire
prevention plan.
Refer to Map 4 Fire Protection & Emergency & Maintenance Access for disk lines
and areas that are to be mowed annually to maintain emergency vehicle access
through the Preserve. This map also indicates those sensitive resource areas in the
Preserve that should not be accessed by heavy vehicles.
Revegetation Defined
Revegetation as it pertains to this handbook is the reestablishment of native habitat as
it is associated with the immediate trail area for the purpose of:
• Repairing a former trail site to its natural condition
• Enhancing existing habitat adjacent to a trail
• Providing erosion control on trail sides lopes
• Mitigating impacts caused by constructing a trail in a sensitive habitat area
Revegetation Techniques to Restore and Enhance Trail Edges and
Former Trail Alignments
Revegetation guidelines contained within this handbook are oriented towards
restoration of sites associated with new trail construction, maintenance of existing
trails and restoration of former trail routes designated for closure. Therefore, the
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Final
focus of these guidelines is on repairing the trail tread and associated side slopes
where any existing environmental degradation could fester and cause major problems
in the future.
New Trail Construction
When preparing a new site for trail construction the follc>;wingprocedures should be
undertaken:
• Once the trail alignment has been flagged, conduct a; pre-construction biological
survey for sensitive species to ensure compliance with state and federal law
(California Environmental Quality Act, California Department of Fish and Game
Code, Migratory Bird Treaty Act, state and federal Endangered Species Acts)
• If any sensitive plant species are found, look at alternative routes to avoid the
these plants
• Once an environmentally superior route has been flagged, prior to commencing
construction work:
• Verify with the California Department of Fish and Game whether a
streambed alteration agreement is necessary for specific restoration activities
that affect the bed or bank of the stream. These environmental regulatory
permits will regulate the timing of construction and may direct
building/restoration techniques.
• Flag any rare plants in the area and fence to protect from impact during
construction
• Hand collect seed from sensitive plants if appropriate, or use other methods
recommended by a botanist with expertise in revegetation of the species.
• Store collected seed from native seeds plants from the immediate area for later
use
• During trail construction:
• Stockpile native topsoil for reuse in revegetating areas adjacent to the trail
tread
• Conduct the construction prep work and trail construction work under
permits from the United States Fish and Wildlife Service or the California
Department of Fish and Game, if required. Where construction will take
place in streambed areas the construction period is typically April 15 to
October 15 when flow is low. If rare species are present, the construction
period should be modified as recommended by a biologist with expertise in
the habits of the species. This may limit construction to the post-nesting
season, typically late summer or fall.
• Do not perform restorative work while any sensitive species are nesting or
breeding in a location where they could be directly impacted by the
restoration work
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• Incorporate National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES), a
provision of the Clean Water Act "Best Management Practices" when
constructing a trail to prevent soils and other pollutants from entering creeks,
ponds, lakes and springs and degrading water quality. "Best Management
Practices" may include techniques relating to storage (detention), filtration
and infiltration practices. Determination of the most appropriate techniques
will be dependent on the specific conditions of each situation. Typical
construction measures used to prevent soils from entering creeks, ponds,
lakes and springs and degrading water quality include: the placement of hay
bales or siltation fences between the construction site and the water body
(stream, seasonal drainage or pond) or diverting the creek water when
actually working within the creek bed. NPDES permits may be required to
perform restoration work.
• After trail construction has been completed:
• Scarify the area immediately adjacent to the trail to break up the compacted
soils and seed. with native plants to enlarge the native plant population and
protect soils from eroding
• Complete seeding of native plants prior to and before the start of the winter
rainy season (preferably between September 15 th and October 15 th) to provide
proper germination
• Native seed mix should be applied in a sweeping motion to form a uniform
mat. If areas are hand-seeded, rake seed lightly into soil Once seed has been
applied, power blow a straw mulch over the seeded area and then apply a
hydroseeding fiber, water and tackifier to form a uniform cover over straw.
This three-step technique will help to hold the native seeds in place thereby
promoting germination and to controlling erosion of areas. disturbed during
trail construction
• Individual trees and shrubs should be planted from starts established in D-
pots. When transplanting into the ground, provide a protective guard around
the plant above and below grade to protect the plants from deer and rodents.
Hand water seedlings once a week during the first season until the rains are
occurring frequently enough to maintain moist soil conditions. Remove
protective plant guards once the plants have become established.
• Block area restored area from further use and install signs stating "Area
Closed: Habitat Restoration" at the junctions of trails leading into the
restoration area.
Correcting Eroded Slopes when Performing Routine Maintenance or when Preparing
Trails for Closure
Typically the work required to correct an eroded trail tread andlor side slope will
include the following procedures:
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Final
• Correct water problems caused by water flowing into and down the trail by:
~ Filling in ruts and gullies with local soils and gravel
• Further stabilizing the slope using rocks, erosion cloth, net or other
biodegradable covering agents (e.g. erosion control mats typically contain a
layer of straw or excelsior sandwiched between photo-degradable netting
stakes (to impede the speed of water and inhibit gullying and rilling). This
material should then be laid and secured with biodegradable, as directed by
an erosion control specialist
• Grading the trail bed and adjacent area to return the surface to its original
shape and contour
• Scarify the trail to break up the compacted soils and allow new vegetation to
grow
• Reestablish vegetation with native species appropriate to the specific site
• Block area from further use and install signs stating "Area Closed: Habitat
Restoration" at trail junctions leading into the restoration area. In some cases it
may also be prudent to construct some type of temporary fencing to prevent
access.
Preparing Trails for Closure in Riparian or Wetland Areas
Typically the work required to prepare a site for abandonment in riparian or wetland
areas will include the following procedures:
• Conduct a pre-construction biological survey for sensitive species to ensure
compliance with state and federal law (California Environmental Quality Act,
California Department of Fish and Game Code, Migratory Bird Treaty Act, state
and federal Endangered Species Acts). In streambed areas the construction
period is typically April 15 to October 15 when flow is low. Ifrare species are
present, the construction period should be modified as recommended by a
biologist with expertise in the habits of the species. This may limit construction
to the post-nesting season, typically late summer or fall.
• Verify with the California Department of Fish and Game whether a streambed
alteration agreement is necessary for specific restoration activities that affect the
bed or bank of the stream. These environmental regulatory permits will regulate
the timing of construction and may direct building/restoration techniques.
• Do not perform restorative work while any sensitive species are nesting or
breeding in a location where they could be directly impacted by the restoration
work
• Incorporate National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES), a
provision of the Clean Water Act "Best Management Practices" when closing a
trail to prevent so~ls and other pollutants from entering creeks, ponds, lakes and
springs and degrading water quality. "Best Management Practice~" may include
techniques relating to storage (detention), filtration and infiltration practices.
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Determination of the most appropriate techniques will be dependent on the
specific conditions of each situation. Typical construction measures used to
prevent soils from entering creeks, ponds, lakes and springs and degrading water
quality include: the placement of hay bales or siltation fences between the
construction site and the water body (stream, seasonal drainage or pond) or
diverting the creek water when actually working within the creek b~d. NPDES . ,
permits may be required to perform restoration work.
• Scarify the trail to break up the compacted soils and allow new vegetation to
grow
• Reestablish vegetation with native species appropriate to the specific site
• Block area from further use and install signs stating "Area Closed: Habitat
Restoration" at trail junctions leading into the restoration area. In some cases it
may also be prudent to construct some type of temporary fencing to prevent
access.
Preparing Trails for Closure in Serpentine Areas
Typically the work required to prepare a site for abandonment in serpentine areas will
include the following procedures:
• Conduct a pre-construction biological survey for sensitive species to ensure
compliance with state and federal law (California Environmental Quality Act,
. California Department of Fish and Game Code, Migratory Bird Treaty Act, state
and federal Endangered Species Acts) prior to commencing restorative work
• Flag rare plants and route trails to avoid area
• Prior to commencing restorative construction work, hand collect seed from
sensitive plants if appropriate, or use other methods recommended by a
restoration expert or botanist with expertise in revegetation of the species.
Conduct the work under permits from the United States Fish and Wildlife Service
or the California Department of Fish and Game, if required.
• Store collected seed from native seeds plants from the immediate area for later
use
• During trail construction, stockpile native topsoil for reuse in revegetating areas
within and adjacent to the trail tread
• Scarify the trail to break up the compacted soils and reseed to enlarge popUlation
of sensitive plants
• Block area from further use and install signs stating "Area Closed: Habitat
Restoration" at trail junctions leading into the restoration area. In some cases it
may also be prudent to construct some type of temporary fencing to prevent
access.
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Final
Timing
Pruning and Mowing
Annual pruning a,nd mowing projects should be timed to avoid interfering with
nesting birds. To ensure that sensitive species will not be impacted, a biological
survey should be conducted annually in habitat areas where there is a potential for
sensitive species to ~est or forage prior to performing annual vegetative clearing and
brushing. Rare and unusual native plants and grasses should be given special
consideration when brushing and clearing the trail area. Every effort should be made
to avoid their removal.
Reyegetation
Restoration work should be performed during a time period approved by the
environmental regulatory agencies. Restorative work should not be performed while
any sensitive animal species are nesting or breeding in a location where they could be
directly impacted by'the construction work. Typically this period extends from April
15 to October 15. If rru;e species are present, the construction period should be
modified as recommended by a biologist with expertise in the habits of the species.
This may limit construction to the post-nesting season, typically late summer or fall.
In streambed areas the construction period is typically April 15 to October 15 when
flow is low. If rare species are present the construction period could be as short as
June 1 to Oct 15 to avoid disturbing nesting, breeding, or migration activities. Prior
to initiating any restoration work in a streambed area, verify with the California
Department of Fish and Game whether a streambed alteration agreement is necessary
for specific restoration activities that affect the bed or bank of the stream. These
environmental regulatory permits will regulate the timing of construction and may
direct building/restoration techniques.
Watering
Hand water seedlings and tree and shrub starts once a week during the first season
until rains are occurring frequently enough to maintain moist soil conditions. Do not
water native plants after the first season unless there is a drought. During drought
conditions, plants may be watered up to the third season. Watering after that time
willtend to weaken the plant, shorten its life and make it vulnerable to disease.
7.6 Trail Signing & Mapping
Trail Signage Program
Currently there is very little signage in the Preserve to inform or direct Preserve
visitors. While the public's desire and the Preserve's Mission are to maintain the
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Preserve in a natural condition, there is still a need for some signage in the Preserve.
Following are recommendations for a trail signage program that will inform and
direct visitors to the Preserve without being too intrusive.
The Preserve sign program should address the following types of.conditions:
• Trail Identity
• Resource Protection
• Trail AccessibilitylDifficulty
• Regulatory, Warning and Educational Signs
Trail Identify Signs
The primary access to the 609-acre Preserve is by trails. The provision of a unified
signing system will help inform and direct trail use. Trail signing is particularly
important in directing trail users to the all-weather trail network during the winter
months, and in clarifying trail routes that may serve as a part of a regional trail
system.
A new trail identity sign program is being developed by the City of Palo Alto. It will
generally follow the trail signage program developed for Pogonip Park in the City of
Santa Cruz. These trail identity signs are being designed to be unobtrusive fitting
with the natural character of the park. The identity signs should be placed at
appropriate points along the entire length of the trail system in such a manner as to be
easily read. Appropriate locations for placing these signs include the access points
into the Preserve and at junctions with other trails. Identity information should be
printed in white on a brown background on steel metal plates. The plates will be
sized to fit on 6" by 6" posts. The identity signs should provide the following
information:
• The trail name
• Whether the trail is opened year-round or seasonally
• Trail mileage
iI Trail difficulty/accessibility rating
Refer to Figure17-Trail Marker Post for a prototypical trail identity sign
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Techniques and Tools
March 2001
7-45
1 3/4"
,...
·.:8
TRAIL MARKER POST
SCALE: 2" = 1'·0"
Final
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Plan
Trail Maintenance Techniques and Tools
,,---........ .---Continuous chamfer @ top edge
of post
,..---6"x12" Arastradero metal trail marker; sign to
include trail name, directional arrow and trail
destination; Inset sign flush wI post face, glue,
and screw into place; brown background with
white lettering.
~-"Arastradero Preserve," green background
with white lettering
--6"x6" Metal user identification marker inset
face flush wI post face, glue, and screw into
place.
Locate inside edge of sign post 1'·0" from
outside edge of trail tread
a.--6" x6" Redwood post
r:;:i.·
~ ... : 1>.
v-~ .:
. :~ \) <0
C>.. ().:.
'V' •
IIII -1111 '.
Undisturbed soil
Concrete footing
FIGURE 17
March 2001
7-46
Final
Resource Protection Signs
Permanent Closure
As part of each trail closure and/or restoration process, signs should be installed
stating "Area Closed: Habitat Restoration" at trail junctions leading into the
restoration area. These signs and any protective fencing that was installed to protect a
restoration site should be removed when the vegetation has successfully reestablished
and any remnants of the former trail are no longer visible.
Refer to Figure 18 -Prototypical Education Sign for guidelines on constructing trail
education signs.
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Techniques and Tools
March 2001
7-47
11/4"
r--~~t===t2::=~~------Continuous chamfer @ top edge
of post
4--15"x15" Prototypical educational
sign
~-Metal plate sign, brown background
with white lettering
..-------4"x4" Redwood post
~-----If----I--------Locate inside edge of sign 1'·0"
min. from outside edge of trail tread
Undisturbed soil
Concrete footing
PROTOTYPICAL EDUCA TIONAL SIGN
SCALE: 2" = 1'-0"
Final
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Plan
Trail Maintenance Techniques and Tools
FIGURE 18
March 2001
7-48
Final
Trail System MaplBrochure
It is vitally important for trail users to have current accurate and informative travel
information about the Preserve. New trails added or old trails eliminated from the
trail inventory should be appropriately indicated and accurately located. Guidelines
for accessibility should be included to guide all users including hikers, equestrians
and bicyclists, as well as those people with limited skill or mobility levels and those
visitors seeking a challenge. Maps should be describe seasonal use patterns that are
unique to the Preserve. It should also advise people that this Preserve is a shared use
trail system and provide trail etiquette guidelines for sharing the trail so that all
visitors can have a pleasurable experience. Etiquette guidelines should address:
• Yielding patterns
• Keeping dogs on leash and cleaning up after dogs
• Techniques for warning other visitors of their approach
Regulatory ,Warning. and Educational Signs
Regulatory, warning and educational signs should be erected along the trail where
necessary t~ ensure the safety of the user and the protection of the resources.
Regulatory Traffic Signs that are to placed in locations where access to the Preserve
crosses Arastradero Road, need to comply with Caltrans Chapter 1000 -Bikeway
Planning and Design, topic 1004 -Uniform Signs, markings and Traffic Control
Devices, California Department of Transportation. They must also comply with any
additional City policies and regulations. These will include the new City policy on
the design and placement of mid-block crossings.
Educational signs that are to provided as resource protection tools to guide the use of
the Preserve should be uniform in style. They should provide simple concise
information letting the visitor know what uses are permitted and why a restriction is
being placed on the use. Examples of educational signs include:
• Seasonal Use & Accessibility signs (An example of a trail accessibility limitation
may be steep, erosive soils) When closing a trail for the season, bollards with
seasonal closure signs should be placed at the junctions of year-round and
seasonal use trails.
• Resource Protection Signs (For example: dogs may not be allowed in Arastradero
Lake because of potential disturbance to red-legged frog habitat)
Refer to Figure 19 -Removable Metal Bollard for a prototypical design for seasonal
·closUre markers.
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Techniques and Tools
March 2001
7-49
PLAN
.------Pipe bollard
Lock
,,----Concrete footing
r----.....,.. Pipe bollard
,----Reflective tape
,---15" x 15" Metal plate sign, brown background with
white lettering. Prototypical trail closure notification .
._.---Sign text: "Trail closed for winter season. Call
for information on timing of trail opening."
,..----Create recess in concrete footing for lock
,-__ Concrete footing w/#4 rebar. top of footing flush
with adj. paving. slope 2% away from post
Adjacent trail
~-Removable bollard Insert
Post footing sleeve
1iP·~!i:as&.i;i)i~~--Compacted aggregate base. see
SECTION 2'·0" spec.
Note: Provvide a cover plate for
opening when bollards are removed.
REMOVABLE METAL BOLLARD
SCALE: 1/2" = 1'-0"
Final
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Plan
Trail Maintenance Techniques and Tools
FIGURE 19
March 2001
7-50
Surface Material Product Description
Asphalt
Permeable
Base: Compacted
aggregate base shall be
314" to 1-112" base rock
Compacted
maximum size with 95%
compaction. May be used
Aggre,gate as the finished surface, as
Base a sub-base for asphalt,
concrete, or pavers & as a
base which is mixed with a
polymer emulsion
Type I PorUand cement is
typically sufficient for
most trail work.
Specifications for bridge
work must be developed by
a licensed engineer on a
case by case basis.
~Concrete
Semi-impervious fabric
used to provide a stable
base for soil or gravel.
Typically used a part of the
sub-base in conjunction
with other surface
Geotextiles materials. Use with
segments using compacted
aggregate, polymer
emulsion, concrete pavers,
drainage solutions In wet
areas.
Final
Arasterdero Preserve Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Programs
Typical Uses
Where trail use Is shared by hikers
and wheeled modes of travel (e.g.
bikes, strollers, wheelchairs) ,
degree of accessibility is defined as
high and level of maintenance is
established as high -best used for
short stretches to solve a "wet"
soils problem on a trail otherwise
considered as part of the "all-
weather trail system.
Where slopes are <10%, trail use is
shared by hikers, equestrians,
wheeled modes of travel (e.g. bikes,
strollers, wheelchairs) , degree of
accessibility Is defined as high and
level of maintenance is established
as high.
Where trail use Is shared by hikers
and wheeled modes of travel (e.g.
bikes, strollers, wheelchairs) ,
degree of accessibility is defined as
high and level of maintenance Is
established as high -best used for
short stretches to solve a "wet"
soDs problem on a trail otherwise
considered as part of the "all-
weather trail system -common
uses in "natural environments" are
the construction of low flow stream
crossings, bridge sills and bridge
abutments.
Principal uses include "tumpikes" -
elevating the trailbed through low
areas, crossing over exposed roots,
"drainage lenses"-a soil-free rock
surface designed to promote
drainage under the trailbed ,
retaining walls, and as a sub-base
for other paving options (e.g.
compacted aggregate, polymer
emulSions, concrete pavers).
Table 8 Trail Surface Synopsis
Installation Long-term
Proposed Applications Costs Maintenance
Costs
Ir!lll!l SudaC!l. None High Low long-tenn
Recommended. Use of asphalt Installation maintenance 10 -
should be avoided where it cost 20 year life span
would present a visual
intrusion or impact the
"natural setting" of the
Preserve. If use of asphalt is
detennined to be appropriate,
an area should be tested by
equestrians to ensure
adequate traction before
proceeding with surfacing a
long section.
Trea!l Sudace PP1, Me11, Moderate May require
Wo1 WillL annual grading
Em.uI.a.i!!n Ac1, Arc2, and or
replacement of
ArC3, JB2, JB5, fines In rutted
Uo!l!l[ ~iI~CI ArC1 areas to maximize
accessibility.
I[!lil!l Sudal<!! None High Low long-tenn
Recommended. Use of Installation maintenance
concrete should be avoided cost
where it would present a
visual intrusion or Impact the
"natural setting" of the
Preserve. If use of concrete is
detennined to be appropriate,
an area should be tested by
equestrians to ensure
adequate traction before
proceeding with surfacing a
long section. . ~
AbUlID!!Dlli JB1, PP1
QIIlDllil!<llil!l lIgg[1!9illlil PP1,
Me11, Wo1
With ElDylliillO Ac1, Arc2,
ArC3, JB2, JB5,
UO!lIil[ ~iffil[li ArC1
DraiDilglil SlIhrtillDli BV
Advantages
All-weather, hard surface
most suitable to walking and
wheel types of use, does not
erode.
Surface is penneable -Soft
but finn surface will
accommodate multiple use -
one of the best penneable
"all-weather" surfaces.
All-weather, hard surface
most suitable to walking and
wheel types of use, does not
erode.
Will enhance the life &
usability of the surface
tread.
Disadvantages
Costly to repair, not natural looking,
requires access by construction
equipment, may not be suitable in
highly sensitive environmental areas
where asphalt materials could leach
into the water or where soils are
subject to settling. Not a suitable
surface for horses.
i
Surface can rut or erode with heavy ~ I
rainfall, especially if trail is used by
heavy maintenance vehicles when it is
saturated. If surface becomes rutted
or surface gravels are loose, material
may not be suitable for wheeled
recreation travel vehicles (e.g. bikes,
strollers, wheelchairs) esp. on steep
slopes. Loose gravel can also be
damaging to horses' feet.
Costly to repair -not natural looking-
requires access by construction
equipment-may not be suitable where
soils are subject to settling. Not a
suitable surface for horses. Potential
tripping hazard if contiguous trail
sections are not maintained flush at
concrete ed!1e.
Installation of a geotextile fabric
should be done under the guidance of
an erosion control specialist or expert
installer to ensure it is installed
correctly and that the surface
materials will have minimal impacts on
creek and wetland areas.
March 2001
7 -51
Surface Material Product Description
Stablized Decomposed
Granite Paving: Califomia
gold as supplied by FeHon
Quarry (408) 335-3445
and distributed by
American Soil Products
(510) 883-7203.
Califomia Gold Path Fines
and Califomia 3(8" Gold
Gravel. Color: Tan or Buff.
Gradation Specifications
Granite Fines Percent Passing
Sieve Size Track Fines
#4 95-100%
#8 75-90%
#30 35-50% ... #200 10-19%
Stabilize material by adding
Portland Type II at a rate
of 5% min. by dry fines.
~
Natural material-existing
on-site soils
Native Soils
Open concrete bloCk which
can be filled with a
permeable aggregate
material
Paver Blocks
.-
Final
Arasterdero Preserve Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Programs
Tabl.e 8 Trail Surface Synopsis (continued)
Installation Long-term
Typical Uses Proposed Applications Costs Maintenance Advantages
Costs
Where slopes are <5%, trail use is None Proposed Moderate High -Wdl require Surface is permeable -Soft
shared by hikers, equestrians, annual grading to but firm surface will
wheeled modes of travel (e.g. bikes, maximize accommodate multiple use.
strollers, wheelchairs) , degree of accesslbilHy -
accessibllHy is defined as high and replenishing fines
level of maintenance Is established wm~along
as high. Can be used in lieu of term expense.
compacted aggregate on recreation
trails and I or as a base under
benches.
.
Where slopes are <10%, degree of Tread SUrface. Ac2, Ac3, Lowest cost May require , Surface is permeable -
accessibnHy Is defined as moderate BaL1, BaL2, BV, annual grading to Easiest for volunteers to
to expert, and level of maintenance CM1 (compacted Eng. fill),
maximize build and maintain -Use of
is established as moderate accessibility. on-site native resources can
CM2,Ga1, Ga2 (+ reduce project material and
prefabricated bridge), IP, labor costs and minimize
J B1 (+ prefabricated bridge), visual impact of the trails.
JB3, JB4, JB6, MeL2,
NP, Oa, PP1 (+
prefabricated bridge), SP,
Wo2 Soil
hardeners &lor seasonal use
limitations may be req. for the
following soil types: AvE, LfE2,
LfE, LoE (refer to Map 8).
Where slopes are <5%, trail use is Irllad Surfa!:!!. Ai'C1 Expensive High • Will require Suitable for small, wet areas
shared by hikers, equestrians, annual monHoring where the tread is fai~y
wheeled modes of travel (e.g. bikes, of pavers & level.
strollers, wheelchairs) , degree of replenishment of
accessiblHy is defined as high and top dressing to
level of maintenance is established retain· a stable,
as high accessible
surface.
'------------.. -------
Disadvantages
Surface ruts during rainy weather
where there is any slope. Requires
installation of headers to define and
hold tread in place.
Many of the sons on the Preserve are
moderately to highly erosive -surface
may b.ecome rutted in wet weather -
Surface highly susceptible to erosion
where soils exceed 10% -In summer
months trails can be dusty.
I
Not suitable for unstable soils where
side slopes are steep. Top dressing
oyer blocks critical in maintaining
accessibility & safety. Potential
tripping hazard if pavers become
exposed and uneven.
March 2001
7·52
Surface Material Product Description
Non-water soluble, high
bonding strength,
emulsion binder that Is
combined with
decomposed granite fines
or aggregate base rock.
Max. size of aggregate
1/2'. Aggregate quality
req. Plasticity index of not
Polymer greater than 4, a min. sand
equivalent of 35 and min.
Emulsion I of 65% crushed faces.
Latex Based Installation. can either be
Solution Soil batch mixed (like concrete
and hauled in or it can be Hardening mixed on site, by mixing . Agent with the top 3-5 inches of
road base and spreading
and compacting with
paving machines without
disturbing other areas.
Trade names include:
'Road Oyl', 'Soil Semenr,
'Poly Pavemenr. .
Native soil mixed with
gravel, sand & cement
Soil Cement
Uses chemical additives to
'cemenr native soils by
decreasing placidity,
Increasing workability,
reducing swelling and
increasing strength -Also
used to fill channels in trail
beds to produce intended
Soil Stabilizers drainage. Additives may
include lime, cement, fly
ash -Selection of
additives should be based
on soD type as determined
through soil testing.
Filial
Arasterdero Preserve Trails Management Program
Trail Maintenance Programs
Table 8 Trail Surface Synopsis (continued)
Installation Long-term
Typical Uses Proposed Applications Costs Maintenance
Costs
Where slopes are <8%, tran use is Tread Syrface. Ac1, ArC2, Expensive-Hardeners do not
shared by hi~ers, equestrtans, ArC3, JB2, J.BS Prior to cost provide a one
wheeled modes of travel (e.g. bikes, surfacing a long section with comparable to time fIX. May
strollers, wheelchairs) , degree of this material, an area should asphalt. require annual
accessibility Is defined as high and be tested by equestrians to grading and or
level of maintenance is established replacement of
as high. Can also be used in diluted ensure adequate traction. fines in rutted
furm for dust and erosion control. Any hardening agents that are areas to maximize used on the Preserve should
be assessed fur potential accessibility.
impacts to water quality, and
no agent shall be used which
could result in physical or
reproductive harm to humans,
domestic animals (e.g. dogs,
horses) or wildlife. In addition
product must provide surface
traction fur bikes, horses, .
hikers and vehicles.
Where slopes are <5%, tran use Is None Proposed Expensive-Requires regular
shared by hikers, equestrians, cost maintenance
wheeled modes of travel (e.g. bikes, comparable to
strollers, wheelchairs , degree of concrete.
accessibility Is defined as high and
level of maintenance Is established
as high.
Where slopes are <5%, trail use Is None Proposed Low cost Requires regular
shared by hikers, equestrians, maintenance
wheeled modes of travel (e.g. bikes,
strollers, wheelchairs) , degree of
accessibility is defined as high and
level of maintenance Is established
as higti. also used during
construction to enable work to
cOntinue during the weI" season.
Advantages
Hardeners will work to make
the roadway more of an all
season surface by providing
a firm & stable surface year
round in wet & dry
conditions. Should be able to
be applied so that the
hardeners highlight without
obliterating the natural
coloration of the aggregate
base. Life span up to 20
years. Manufacturers claim
material to be suitable for
environmentally sensitive
areas.
Provides a firm & stable
surface year round, blends
into the natural
environment.
More durable than native
$oilS, smoother surface.
Disadvantages
Some of these emulsions may contain
materials that could have an adverse
impact on water quality. More
research is needed to look for surface
hardeners, with a 'natural appearing-
surface that will perform the
functions designated in this table .
An erosion control specialist should
be req. to review any trail
construction site where trail
hardeners are to be employed to
ensure that erosion is minimized.
Applicability limited to relatively level,
recreation trails.
Surface wears unevenly, not suitable
as a stable all-weather surface, will
erode where surface is not relatively
level, difficult to achieve correct mix
"'"
March 2001
7 -53
Table 9 Vehicle Turn-around Design Summary
Turn-Existing Conditions Recommended Actions
around
#1 Mowed grassland Mow area near boundary of the Preserve for Type 3 & 4 emergency
Trail: SP dominated by non-native fire vehicles to turn around. Maintain 2" min. grass cover.
plants
#2 Area is nearly flat & : Perform minor grading to develop hammerhead turn-around for
Trait:JB2 already contains hardened Type 3 & 4 emergency fIre vehicles on west side of bridge in the
surfaces and non-native area that is nearly flat. A void nearby riparian habitat and
grassland. serpentine soils.
#3 Existing hardened surface Maintain the existing vehicle turn-around at booster pump
Trail: Jet. adjacent to lake & utility station. No grading or vegetation removal required.
ArC & Ac booster station.
#4 Mowed grassland Mow area at junction of Bay View Trail for Type 3 & 4
Trail: CM2 dominated by non-native emergency fire vehicles to turn around. Maintain 2" min. grass
plants cover.
#5 Grassland dominated by . Perform minor grading to develop hammerhead turnaround in
Trail:ArC2 non-native plants on area that is nearly flat near junction of Route F (now scheduled
opposite side of utility road for closure) for Type 3 & 4 emergency fire vehicles. DefIne area
I. from creek & does not with native vegetation in a natural confIguration. A void nearby
affect creek zone riparian habitat
#6 Existing dirt driveway. No Locate at existing gate on the east side of the trail. Move gate
Trail: ArC3 grading or vegetation back to accommodate Type 3 & 4 emergency fIre vehicles.
removal required ConfIne turn-around area to existing graded pad. Minimize
annual pruning to area necessary for vehicle access.
#7 Existing drive to old barn ConfIne turn-around to existing graded pad that formerly served
Trail: MeLl site. No grading or as the driveway for the old barn.
vegetation removal req.
#8 Existing road around the Maintain existing, paved vehicular turn-around that encircles
Trail: Wol water tank. Tight radius water tank for utility vehicles.
will not accommodate
Type 3 & 4 vehicles
#9 Flat grassland area at Perform minor grading to develop hammerhead turnaround at the
Trail: Jet. JB junction of two trails. junction Juan Bautista de Anza Trail Segs. 4 & 5. ConfIned work
4&5 Minor gr~ding may be (to the greatest extend possible) to existing graded area at the trail
necessary junction.
#10 Mowed grassland Mow an area near junction with Portola Pastures Trail to provide
Trail: JB 4 room for Type 3 & 4 emergency fire vehicles to turn-around.
Maintain 2" min. grass cover
For more detailed information refer to Map 4 -Fire, Emergency and Maintenance Vehicle Access, Section 7.2 -.
Improving Access & Accessibility, Figure 3 -Standard 'Hammerhead' Turn-Around & discussions for individual
trail segments in Section 6.4-Trail Implementation Programs by Tiered Classification. Final siting of all
turn-around to be approved by Open Space Superintendent prior to initiating any grading.
Final
Arastradero Preserve Tniils Management Program
Trail Maintenance Techniques and Tools
March 2001
7~ 54
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8. Staffing and Funding
8. Staffing and Funding
Final
8.1 Staffing
Park Staffing is to be provided to protect and maintain the park using two dedicated
part-time rangers based out of the Foothills Park office. There is seven-day coverage
with overlapping shifts of two five-day rangers.
The Park Rangers, with support from other City Departments, are responsible for
enforcement of the City's Municipal Code as it relates to the patrol, monitoring and
maintenance of Arastradero Preserve. Their duties include: purchase, inventory, use,
training, and repair, of tools, uniforms and supplies; developing and leading outreach
and interpretive programs; trail patrol, monitoring (including trail counts) and
maintenance; and work with the Bay Area Action -Peninsula Conservation Center on
wildlife/resource management projects.
Currently there is one full time equivalent field staff person budgeted to perform all
of the maintenance and patrol functions at the Preserve. Two rangers allocate half
their time (20 hours per week each) to the Preserve. The remainder of each of these
rangers time is allocated to duties at Foothills Park. It is recommended that the
operational budget for the Preserve provide for at least one additional full-time
equivalent staff person (PTE). Additionally, it is recommended that the operational
budget for the Preserve also provide for an additional seasonal staff person to provide
patrol and maintenance support for the Spring-Summer season when use is high;
more mileage is available to trail users; and the majority of the maintenance tasks
will need to be performed. This approach for allocating limited staff resources would
be cost effective from an operations perspective and would provide a sensitive
solution for managing the trail system and the natural resources the City is seeking to
protect on the Preserve .
. The position of Preserve Steward is staffed by Bay Area Action-Peninsula
Conservation Center (BAA+PCCF). BAA+PCCF is a local non-profit, community-
based organization, which has entered into a contractual agreement for shared
stewardship responsibilities in the Preserve. Working closely with City staff, Bay
Area Action is responsible for habitat protection and restoration, removal and control
of non-native, invasive weeds, restoring former structure sites with native plants, trail
maintenance and repair, educational activities, research, and riparian habitat
management. Construction of any new trails or significant upgrades to any existing
trails in the Preserve will be done in collaboration with the BAA+PCCF Steward,
City staff, and volunteers. The Steward, under the direction of City staff will close
designated, inform,al trails in an effort to restore habitat. Funding for these activities .
March 2001
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Staffing & Funding
is the responsibility of the City. Funding may also be provided through donations in
cash and in-kind services, volunteer activities, and grants and other sources. The
Arastradero Steward Annual Work Plan specifies in greater detail the responsibilities
of the Steward on a yearly basis beginning with a July 1 SI fiscal year.
The Utilities Department is re~poIisible for funding maintenance of the utility
infrastructure corridors that run; through the Preserve, including the Maintenance
Access Trails and the electric, gas, and wastewater facilities located on the Preserve.
Volunteer labor may be used, where appropriate, to reduce the cost of constructing
trails and to promote a sense of community pride and ownership in the Preserve.
Volunteer labor should not be used where licensed specialists are required to perform
trail construction activities to ensure that the trail development will not pose a public
safety and/or environmental impact. An example of this type of construction activity
will be the design and construction of Arastradero Creek Trail Segments 1,2, and 3.
8.2 Program Development
Setting Trail Maintenance Priorities
The implementation program set forth in Section 6 provides a breakdown of each
trail section and recommendations for trail construction, rerouting, maintenance and
restoration work. While this maintenance program is not all inclusive, it does
provide a framework for dividing future trail work into essential and non-essential
trail work. The information provided in Sections 6.4 and 6.5 should help staff to
establish priorities for new construction projects as well as routine maintenance in the
near and long-term. Generally, a greater priority should be placed on the High
Maintenance trail system which is to be oriented toward year-round use. The
exception should be situations where there are essential work tasks that must be
completed in the interest of protecting and enhancing the public's experience and the
Preserve resources in order of priority:
• Eliminating hazards and enhancing visitor accessibility
• Maintaining the utility infrastructure
• Protecting sensitive biotic species and habitat
• Correcting eroding or moving slopes that are threatening the structural integrity
of the trail investment or the water quality of the creeks, seeps, pond and lake
Based on these prioritization considerations, the following trail segments rank as the
highest priority for future construction, maintenance and restorative work:
Safety -Eliminating Hazards and Enhancing Visitor Accessibility
• Gateway Trail Segment 1
• Gateway Trail Segment 2
Final March 2001
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Staffing & Funding
Final
• Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail Segment 1 (and protecting
sensitive biotic species and habitat)
• Arastradero Creek Trail Segment 1 (and protecting sensitive biotic species and
habitat and·correcting eroding or moving slopes)
• Portola Pastures Segment 1 (and protecting sensitive biotic species and habitat)
Maintaining the Utility Infrastructure -Opportunity to Coordinate with Utility Work
already in the Development Stages
• Arastradero Creek Trail Segment 2
• Arastradero Creek Trail Segment 3
Estimating Costs
The costs associated with completing the improvements described in Section 6 of this
document should only be considered as an estimate. Costs may vary dramatically
depending on the construction techniques and construction materials that are
ultimately used. For the purposes of calculating the costs of implementing this plan,
the assumption is that 4 to 6 foot wide trail construction and maintenance will be
performed by hand, by a non-profit trail building organization such as the Trail
Center. For the Maintenance Access Trails, the assumption is that professional
contractors will perform the work at union wages. For revegatation work the
assumption is that landscaping will consist of hydroseeding native plant materials
that reflect the surrounding natural conditions of the Preserve.
The budget estimate was based on the conceptual design solutions provided in
Section 7 of this document and the current construction costs. Materials selected for
calculating the budget estimates are standard materials that will fulfill the functional
requirements of the design. Budget estimates were determined by calculating
estimated quantities and then applying unit costs to those quantities. In addition to.
projected construction costs, the construction subtotal also included allowances on
sensitive segment for pre-construction surveys and permitting fees. In addition, a
cost estimate was developed for closing and restoring each of the trail segments
identified in Section 6 on Map 11 Implementation Program -Trail Routes that are to
be Closed or Rerouted to Protect Resources.
Projected Construction Costs
Based on the factors described above, the construction costs for construction and
restoration work associated with trail closure for the entire Preserve Trail system are
estimated to be between $550,000 and $1,200,000. The lower cost largely depends on
the extent to which the City is able to use voluilteers and in-house services for tasks
such as surveying. Alternately, the higher cost estimate assumes that private
contractors will perform most of the work.
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Staffing & Funding·
March 2001
8j 3
Final
This estimate included costs for site preparation, surface improvements (such as
polymer hardening additives), bridges,' benches, drainage improvements, habitat
enhancement (e.g. landscaping) and some signage (an overall cost was not been
developed for the trail identity signs). Improvements that are proposed as part of the
Gateway structure were not included, even where those improvements would have a
direct benefit to trails users and trail staff (e.g. restroom, office).
8.3 Funding
Current funding
It is the City's policy to augment staff and contractor development and repair of trails
through the use volunteer labor. Financial support may also come from the
community in the form of financial contributions for specific projects, and from non-
profit organizations which provide groups of volunteers to assist in such activities as
trail maintenance and repair, litter removal, implementation of erosion control
programs, and habitat restoration.
Much of the funding for planning, development, restoration, staffing, maintenance
and operations for the Preserve comes from the City's Infrastructure Management
Fund .. Other sources of funding which are currently available for implementation of
this plan are described below.
The Capital Improvement Program proposed budget for Project 10001, Park Trails,
includes $773,000 in the five year period beginning July 1,2001, for trail
improvements in Foothills Park, the Arastradero Preserve and Baylands Nature
Preserve. These funds are intended to provide for the annual clearing of trails, repair
of split rail fences and repair of picnic areas. Staff anticipates allocating
approximately $100,000 per year for trail improvements within Arastradero Preserve
over the next five years.
Capital Improvement Program Project 0118, All Weather Arastradero Road Paving,
will provide $275,000 for the stabilization of the utility access trail tread (road
s~rface) that runs along Arastradero Creek between the border of Foothills Park and
Arastradero Lake, and between Gate B on Arastradero Road and the Arastradero
Lake. This project is fully funded.
In addition, the City was recently awarded $22,000 from the National Park Services
for the improvement of the Juan Bautista de Anza Trail within Arastradero Preserve.
Additionally, $100,000 was allocated in the California State budget, at the request of
Senator Byron Sher, for creating trail conn~ctions between Arastradero Preserve and
Stanford University as part of the development of the Bay-to-Ridge Trail.
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Staffing & Funding
March 2001
8J 4
Final
Volunteers and In-kind Donations
City staff should continue to work cooperatively with Bay Area Action-Peninsula
Conservation Center Foundation, the Trail Center, and other local agencies to provide
volunteers for trail building and maintenance. Since the Bay Area Action-Peninsula
Conservation Center Foundation has been contracted for shared stewardship
responsibilities in the Preserve over 3,000 hpurs of volunteer service have been
donated annually for trail projects within the Preserve.
Potential Funding Sources
Future financial planning for trail improvements should continue to take into
consideration a variety of options to develop the most cost-effective strategies for
financing including:
• Seeking grants from local, state, regional and federal programs
• . Establishing partnerships with other agencies, most notably the Utility
Department, the Fire Department, and the Public Works Department
• Maintaining existing and establishing new partnerships with youth and non-
profit organizations (such as Eagle Scouts and the Trail Center)
• Enlisting volunteer support
Grant monies often provide opportunities to fund to trail construction. Many of
these potential sources are tied to federal, state and regional programs that are
competitive, and involve the completion of extensive applications with clear
documentation of the project need, costs and benefits as laid out in other sections of
this trails management handbook. In looking for grant monies it will be important
to look at the overall mission of the Preserve and not limit the search for monies
exclusively to "trail monies". Many resource funds also include opportunities for
trail construction, if the trail improvements are tied to resource enhancements.
Examples of these types of grant opportunites may include:
• California Fishery Restoration Program (California Depatment of Fish & Game)
• Habitat Conservation Fund Program (California Department of Parks and
Recreation)
• Urban Streams Restoration Program (Department of Water Resources)
• National Park Service Challenge Cost Share Program (U.S. Department of
Interior National Park Service Western Region, Rivers Trails, & Conservation
Division) -Juan Bautista de Anza Trail
• Park Bond 2000 (California State Department of Parks and Recreation)
This list of potential granting opportunities should serve as a guide and as a source
of inspiration as to the variety of financing options that may be available for funding
the trail. However, note that grant opportunities come and go as the associated
timelines for bills or bonds that created the funding source expire.
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Staffing & Funding
March 2001
$-5
9. Sources
9. Sources
Final
9.1 Acknowledgements
Development of these Trail Management Guidelines is the result of a team effort.
Each of the following people contributed their time and expertise over the phone,
through written correspondence, and lor attending meetings, field 'walks and public
workshops. Input received from each of these participants has helped to customize
these recommendations to Arastradero Preserve.
City of Palo Alto Staff
City of Palo Alto Open Space Division
Greg Betts
Lee Hickinbotham
Lester Hodgins
Michelle Wagner
Bay Area Action-Peninsula Conservation Center Foundation (BAA+PCCF)
Karen Cotter
David Smernoff
City of Palo Alto Fire Department
Dan Heiser
Don Loquioa
City of Palo Alto Utility Department
RogerCwiak
Mel La Flam
John Nguy
City of Palo Alto Transportation Division
Gayle Likens
Interagency Coordination
East Bay Regional Park District
Steve Filala, Trails Specialist
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
Del Woods,
National Park Service
John Ramirez
Greg Scoby
Meredith Kaplan, Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail, Project Manager
Portola Valley Master Plan
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Sources
March 2001
9~\
Final
George Mader, Trail Consultant, Spangle & Associates
Santa Clara County Parks and Recreation Department
Jane Mark, Trails Coordinator
Stanford University
Charles Carter, Assistant Director of Planning
Trail Center
Geoffrey Skinner
Public Participants
In addition to the City Team there were several members of the community that were
very active in the planning process.
Rod Brown
These community members include:
Patty Ciesla
Ellie Gioumousis
Jenifer Hagan
9.2 Bibliography
Don Mayall
Ernst Meisner
Geoffrey Skinner
Rosemary Young
1. , Americans with Disabilities Act Guidelines for Outdoor Recreation -
Trails, Final Report, September 1999
2., Arastradero Fact Sheet
3. , City of Palo Alto Ranger Job Duties, City of Palo Alto
4. ,Martha, Connection of Trails of Arastradero Preserve to
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District, Compilation of Notes, Reports,
August 29, 1990
5. Arastra Citizens Advisory Committee, Report of the Arastra Citizens Advisory
Committee on Park Improvements and Policies, February 1984
6. Bluhon Planning Group & Arkin Tilt Architects for Arastradero Gateway Task
Force, Consensus Design Recommendations for the Arastradero Preserve
Gateway Facility, City of Palo Alto, October 1998
7. California State Parks, Trails Handbook, The Department of Parks and
Recreation William Penn Mott Jr. Training Center, Pacific Grove California
8. City of Palo Alto, The Arastradero Preserve Management Plan, 1996
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Sources
March 2001
9~2
Final
9. City of Palo Alto, Arastradero Preserve Policies Memorandum, June 24, 1994
10. City of Palo Alto, Planning Commission Minutes, Agenda Item #1-Land Use
and Environmental Analysis of Arastra Park Plan, April 11, 1984
11. City of Palo Alto, Planning Commission Minutes, Special Meeting, July 23,1984
12. City of Palo Alto, Policies and Proposals for the Trails and Paths Plan, March
1969
13. Cotter, Karen, Arastradero Preserve Stewardship Project, Arastradero Preserve,
Natural Resources, Trails and Soil Information, January 2000
14. Cotter, Karen, Arastradero Preserve Trail Management Plan Memorandum,
April 25, 2000
15. County of Santa Clara, Santa Clara Countywide Trails Master Plan Field
Handbook, Santa Clara County Parks and Recreation Department, Los Gatos,
California, (unpublished fmal draft) April 1999
16. de Beauvieres, Mary, Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District, Trail Use
Policy Review -Review of other Agency Trail Use Information, July 1999
17. Harrison, Emily and Fleming, June, Corrected Management Planfor the
Arastradero Preserve, November 12,1996
18. Mayall, Dan, Santa Clara County Chapter Native Plant Society, Letter -Re:
Proposal for Palo Alto Trails Master Plan RFP No. 121239, by Amphion
Environmental, Inc. in association with Thomas Reid Associates, Steven W.
Singer, M.S., March 10, 2000
19. Martin, Bruce, Palo Alto Fire Department, Draft Palo Alto Foothills Fire
Management Plan, November 1996
20. McCoy, Michael, Bikecentennial, Stoner, Mary Alice, USDA Forest Service,
Missoula Technology and Development Center, Missoula, Montana
21. McDonald, Rachel, assisted by Cahill; Sally, Trail Manual, a Manualfor the
Maintenance and Operation of Trails in the East Bay Regional Park District,
1995
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Sources
March 2001
9~'3
Final
22. Santa Clara County Trails Plan Advisory Committee, Santa Clara Countywide
. Trails Master Update, Santa Clara County Parks and Recreation Department, Los
Gatos, California
23. Schreiber, Ken, Arastradero Preserve Policies, June 24, 1994
24. U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service, Pacific West Field Area,
Juan Bautisa de Anza Comprehensive Management and Use Plan Final
Environmental Impact Statement, April 1996
Arastradero Preserve Trails Management Program
Sources
March 2001
914
10. Appendices
Appendix A
Sample Survey Questionnaire with Compiled Results
User Profile
22 Yes 0 No
3 a 14 b 3 c 3 d
1.
2.
a. daily
ARASTRADERO PRESERVE
Questionnaire -Stakeholder Interviews
Are you generally familiar with Arastradero Preserve?
How often do you visit Arastradero Preserve?
b. weekly c. monthly d. a few times a year
Oa18bOc4dge10f 3. What characteristics best describe the members of the family who use the p
1,2-6,1-4 g a. child
e. male
12 a 6 b 8 c 6 dOe 4 f 1 g
a. walk
4.
e. access fishing
b. adult c. teen d. senior citizen
f. female g. size of group
Do you use the trails to:
b. run c. bicycle
f. conduct nature study
d. horseback ride
g walk dogs
5. Which trail(s) do you use the most and why?
6 Acorn Trail 10 Corte Madera 3 Meadowlark 2 Perimeter
5 Single track 5 All trails 1 Shady Trails 1 Joan Colin Way
Trail Management Practices
1. How do you feel we can best safeguard environmentally sensitive areas in the Preserve from damage by
Horses?
11 Seasonal USe to Protect Trail Tread
No access in muddy conditions (2)
Seasonal trail closures (but don't tie to a calendar date )(7)
Provide winter access on hardened trails (2)
9 Enforcement/Education
Fences/barricades, education, signage & patrols (2)
Signs "Stay on trails" / Use established trails (5)
Designate specific trail limits & develop more durable trails (1)
May have to put up temp. barricades & levy fines for trespassing if resource signs are ignored (1)
3 Resource Protection
Bikes?
Manure/creek crossings -address water quality issues (2)
Protect endangered species/habitat from trail users (1)
8 Seasonal Use to Protect Trail Tread
No access in muddy conditions (2)
Seasonal trail closures (4)
Realign single tracks around muddy areas (1)
Provide winter access on hardened trails (1)
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9 Enforcement/Education
Fences/barricades, education, signage & patrols (1)
Signs "Stay on trails" / Use established trails (5)
Designate specific trail limits &develop more durable trails (1)
May have to put up temp. barricades & levy fines for trespassing if resource signs are ignored (1)
Too fast, dangerous, courtesy (1)
3 Use Limitations
Prohibit on all but a few trails (1)
Provide a "playground "area to concentrate bicycle use to one area (1)
1 Resource Protection
Protect endangered species/habitat from trail users (1)
Hikers?
5 Seasonal Use to Protect Trail Tread
Seasonal trail closures (3)
Realign single tracks around muddy areas (1)
Provide winter access on hardened trails (1)
11 Enforcement/Education
Fences/barricades, education, signage & patrols (1)
Signs "Stay on trails" / Use established trails (7)
Designate specific trail limits & develop more durable, less muddy trails (2)
May have to put up temp. barricades & levy fines for trespassing if resource signs are ignored (1)
1 Resource Protection
Protect endangered species/habitat from trail users (1)
QQgs.?
4Seasonal Use to Protect Trail Tread
Provide winter access on hardened trails (2)
Seasonal trail closures (2)
14 Enforcement/Education
May have to put up temp. barricades & levy fines for trespassing if resource signs are ignored (1)
Require dogs to be under voice control (1)
Fences/barricades, education, signage & patrols (1)
Signs at park entrances that spell out rules (1)
Keep dogs leashed/Enforce leash laws (6)
Signs (1)
Designate specific trail limits & develop more durable trails (1)
Keep leashed or designate a specific area for off-leash (1)
Signs "Stay on trails" / Use established trails (1)
Clean up dog poop (3)
1 Use Limitations
Prohibit on all but a few trails (1)
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1 Resource Protection
Protect endangered species/habitat from trail users (1)
Dogs -Love them (1)
Collect scientific data on "damage" don't rely on antidotal informati from special interest groups (1)
Consider impacts by nature st~dy & restoration groups who leave trails & inadvertently create
volunteer paths (1)
2. During periods of high fire danger the Preserve the City may need to be closed to protect
park visitors and neighboring properties. How do you suggest that the City notify park users of
these closures?
3a 2b 14c
25 Post signs (@ Parking lot, all entrances, boundaries along Arastradero Rd.
6 Post in local newspaper
5 Post on Web
4 Individualized notices (notify horse users from Stanford (1), neighbors including John
Marten Lane & Los Altos Hills residents (2), Maintain e-mail mailing list (1)
1 Public service radiorrv spots 1
1 Close parking lot
1 Don't close park
3. Do you believe that the existing trail system currently:
a. is over used b. is under used c. provides a comfortable user experience
Other -Some parts over used, some under used (1), in wet weather trail system is unsatisfactory (1), some
underutilized areas, woods, southern boundary (1)
o a 14 b 8 c 2d 6 e 4. Do you believe the current signing in the park is:
a. excessive b. too little c. just right d. informative e. confusing
5. Is the trail staffing at the Preserve adequate?
1Y N
7 a 8 b 10 c 9 d 9 e f What additional services, if any, do you see needed?
3 none a. Enforcement through ranger patrol
b. Enforcement through volunteer patrols
c. Interpretive / Educational outreach
d. Additional staff time qedicated to performing trail maintenance
e. Additional volunteer support dedicated to performing trail maintenance
f. Other
Other-
Volunteers a bad idea (1)
Interpretive -link to Foothills Park ,esp. to bicyclists (2), station interpretive staff at parking lot (1)
Manage Star Thistle next to trails (2, unless you enforce trail changes no additional staffing needed (1)
Trail maintenance should be minimized if the right all-weather system is installed (1)
Trails in pretty good shape little is needed 1
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Questionnaire
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Trail Management Issues
1.Rank Trail Management Issues on a scale of 1 - 5
Circle answer: 1 = being the least or of no concern 5 = Being a big concern
(6) 1 (4) 2 (6) 3 (2) 4 (2) 5 a Users entering a prohibited area or trail
(4) 1 (5) 2 (4) 3 (5) 4 (4) 5 b. Users going off trail
(3) 1 (10) 2 (6) 3 (1) 4 (1) 5 c. Reckless behavior
(7)1 (5) 2 (3) 3 (3) 4 (3) 5 d. Disturbance of resource protection areas by trail users (hikers bikers
equestrians dogs)
(7) 1 (6) 2 (8) 3 (0) 4 (1) 5 e. Conflict between bikers and hikers
(6) 1 (3) 2 (7) 3 (4) 4 (2) 5 f. Conflict between bikers and equestrians
(7) 1 (6) 2 (5) 3 (1) 4 (0) 5 g. Conflict between equestrians and hikers
(7) 1 (7) 2 (6) 3 (1) 4 (1) 5 h. Conflicts between dog walke~s and other users
(4) 1 (6) 2 (3) 3 (5) 4 (3) 5 i. Dogs off leash
(3) 1 (5) 2 (5) 3 (3) 4 (4) 5 j. Excessive speed on trails
(10) 1 (5) 2 (2) 3 (3) 4 (1) 5 k. Personal injury or injury to others
Other
No management problems (1)
Don't assume conflicts without actual statistical data (1)
Lack of education, ego Riding on wet ground, cyclists speed & impact (1)
People using wet trails (1)
15 Yes 3 No 2. Do you feel safe using the trail?
If you do not feel safe, what safety issues concern you?
2 Yes 10 No a. Crime
1 Yes 10 No b. Fire safety
6 Yes 5 No C. User conflicts
11 Yes 2 No d. Crossing Arastradero Road from the parking lot to access the trail system
3 Yes 6 No e. Natural elements. (EXAMPLES: poison oak, thistle, ticks, rattlesnakes)
9 Yes 6 No f. Your physical safety with relationship to the trail surface. (EXAMPLES: slipping on
Arastradero Preserve 4 of 10
Questionnaire 11/3/00
excessive steep slopes, getting bogged down in wet areas, insecure footing
on unevenly surfaced areas)
Trail Routing Criteria
18 a 8 b 13 c 14 d
12 g 7 h 5 i
14e 9 f1. What criteria should be used in deciding if a trail should be included Trails
in the Preserve Plan?
a. Opportunities for varied and/or specific trail uses
b. Accessibility -ease of unobstructed travel
c. Challenges for trail users with varying skills, modes of travel
d. Type of terrain
e. Environmental setting
f. Interpretive / educational opportunities
g. Vistas overlooks
h. Destinations
Other
Provide longest possible trail without break (1),
Ease & ability t6 maintain without environmental damage (1)
Logical loops [that people can use all year] (2)
Spur trails to vistas, destinations, quiet moment for the destination (1)
Envrionmental sensitivity, visual impact (1 )
1. What criteria should be used to decide which trails should be designated for all weather, year-round
use?
18 SolllTopographic Constraints
Soil/surface fragility, slope, erosion problems, soil drainage capabilities/wetness limitations (8)
Only trails that resist erosion should remain open to bikes & horses during wet months (7)
Trails with excessive grade should be closed during wet weather months (1)
Close trails after rains if use will cause damage (2)
12 Year-round/Seasonal Use & Construction. Techniques
All weather trails should have an enduring surface (but don't pave) (4)
A backbone all-weather trail(s) are necessary for seasonal closure (1)
Good footing (1)
Construction methods (1)
No~ overly steep (1)
Good surfaces for horses (1)
Safety (1)
Meandering grassland trails that may be moved or rotated over years (2)
3 Resource Sensitivity
Environmental sensitivity (3)
8 Connectivity
Access to trails from all points (1)
Long Trails (1)
Connects with something (2)
Access to other trails (2)
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Questionnaire
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Should make a logical loop with varied terrain (1)
Part of a regional link (1)
4 Maintenance IEnforcement
Ease & ability to maintain during rainy season (20% yr-round ok) (3)
Ability to enforce closure (1)
1 Use
Limit horse use when trails are wet (1)
Other
None 1
See Criteria above 1
3. What criteria should be used to decide which trails should be designated for seasonal use only?
10 SOilffopographic Constraints
Mud ,wetness damage by bike & horses (4)
Soils & geology (3)
Wetness (3)
3 Year-round ISeasonal Use & Construction Techniques
May have to close some trails to Protect Preserve (1)
Weather dictated not a strict seasonal calendar (1)
Disapprove of trail closures (1)
2 Resource Sensitivity
3 Use
Close trail.s if they cut through bird breeding grounds (1)
Environmental sensitivity (1)
Type of Use (e.g. bikes, horse, hikers) (1)
Limit horse use (1)
Amount of use (1)
1 Maintenance IEnforcement
Ease & ability to maintain (1)
Other
None (2)
See above (6)
Design Standards
8 Yes 13 No 1. Has the design of the trail system caused you any problems?
Yes -not well designed (2) (lack of linkages 1)
10 Yes 9 No 2. Are the existing Preserve entry points appropriately located and identified?
No -(add entry to Foothills Park & Corte MaderaLos TrancosRd. 1) (make Bressler property an entry pOint 1)
17 a 7 b 11 c 5 d 3. What information would you like to see on trail signs? Examples given below
3 e 2 f 4 g 4 h a. trail' names e. steepness of trail
b. trail destinations f. obstacles in the trail
c. mileage g. a rating system like on ski trails: easy, expert
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Questionnaire
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d. accessibility guidelines
Other
Trail signs ok as is (1)
No restrictions on type of use (1)
Uses permitted (1)
Keep signage simple (3)
16 a 1 b 5 c 4. Do you prefer to travel on:
h. Other ____________ _
a. single track, 2 to 4 foot wide trails
b. double track, 10 to 12 foot wide maintenance roads
c. both are fine
5. Do you believe that the Preserve trails adequately address accessibility standards for:
19 Yes 1 No a. visitors of varying skill levels
12 Yes 7 No b. visitors with mobility limitations
No -wheelchairs can't handle gravel trails 1
Other -Wh.eelctiair access IS inappropriate except for area around visitor education center 1
6. Do you have any specific recommendations for trail design standards that you
would like to see incorporated into the Preserve Trail system?
21 Trail Design
3 Trail Use
Provide for technical obstacles to make Mt. biking expo interesting & challenging (2)
Grade of 10% or less for new trails (2)
Barrier free as appropriate (1)
Reroute seasonal trails to be more environmentally friendly' (1)
Factor maintenance into design/construction decisions (1)
Don't like the sound of gravel underfoot (2)
Make trails smooth as possible (2)
Make entrances to park all weather for horses (1)
Need a professionally designed trail system (1)
Provide all weather loops (1)
More variation in trail grade (2)
Harden heavily used equestrian trails (1)
Log line before after switchbacks to slow bicyclists (1)
Steepness (1)
Limited number of trails on Preserve (now is maxed out) (1)
Be guided by topography, size & number of users (1)
Open Meadowlark to bikes (1)
Provide a link to Foothills Park (1)
Ex. trail system provides a good mix of trails (1)
Arastradero Preserve
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3 Trail Width -Single Track
Keep single track trails open (1)
Keep trails as narrow and unobtrusive as possible (1)
Don't widen ex. trails to double wide (1)
3 ResourcelEducation
1 Other
Environmentally sensitive design (habitat, erosion) (1)
Incorporated Interpretive opportunities (1)
Reduce number of ad hoc trails, especially in environmentally sensitive areas (1)
By 10-acre site for Youth Hostel (1)
Other Comments
1. What do you like BEST about Arastradero Preserve?
2.
18 Location
Convenient Location (11)
Accessibility (6)
Proximity to stables (1)
2 Destinations
Ponds (2)
16 Setting
5 Trails
Not overly improved (1)
Childhood memories (1)
Shaded trails (1)
Open grasslands with lots of old
oaks (3)
Wildlife observations (1)
Vistas (2)
Blue Rock trails (i)
Large number of small, windy single track trails (1)
Horse friendly (1)
Diversity of trails (1)
Popular but not overused (1)
1 Restoration efforts
What do you like LEAST about Arastradero Preserve?
11 Setting
Thistles (weeds) (3)
Winter mud (2)
Rattle snakes (1)
Poorly trailed (1)
House site is a mess and detracts
from the Preserve (1)
Arastradero Preserve
Questionnaire
Beauty (1)
Short evening walks (1)
Quiet, peaceful, natural (1)
Size (1)
Raptors (1)
Pretty (1)
The only way to connect to the world (1)
Dust(1)
Too hot in summer (1)
Parking lot is too small (1)
8oflO
11/3/00
16 Trail Design/Operations
Gravel on roads (3)
Crossing Arastradero Rd (2)
Extraneous trails (1)
Trails that follow old ranch roads (1)
Trails are much too short (1)
Projects started & left incomplete (1)
New pavers trail hardening project -
not successful (1)
Lack of al1 weather loops (1)
10 Use(ers)
. Pock marked trails (1)
Decreas.e hardscape, widening trails (1)
More trails should be closed after a rain,
but they need to be reopened when mud
dries up(1)
Recent pavers are nice,but close to
becoming too much like sidewalk (1)
Want more rough surface to make trails
safer (1)
Angry /aggressive people who don't acknowledge other trail users (2)
Unregulated dog, bike & horse use (1)
Fear of speeding bikes (1)
Too many horses (1)
Boom boxes (1)
Mt. Bikers off trail (1)
Non-profit groups that feel that they "own" the Preserve (1)
Some trails are over used in winter (1 )
Volunteer patrol needs to be trained in CPR & First aid (1)
3. What visitor services, if any, would make your visits more enjoyable?
4 Trail Design/Operations
Less trail maintenance (1)
Redesign of most trails (1)
Connections to other parks for long rids (up to 100 miles) (1)
Weed management (1)
9 Amenities
Restrooms (2)
Horse trough (1)
Better maps (2)
One sturdy water fountain (1)
Station for people horses @ barn site (1)
5 None
A few scattered benches (1)
Shaded area @ parking lot with
picnic tables (1)
Water
4. What changes, if any, would you like to see made to Arastradero Preserve?
4 Trail Use
No horses when trails are muddy(1 )
Open Meadowlark Trail to bikes (1)
More restrictions on horses in winter (1)
All-weather access for horses to prevent trail damage (1)
3 Amenities
Gateway Center built (2)
Better park map (1)
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3 Trail Enforcement
Post signs telling people to stay off conservation areas (1)
Enforce speed limits on Arastradero Rd. (1)
More patrol (1)
13 Trail Design
Don't remov~ all obstacles on trails (1)
Do not close~ trails just because they are to steep or difficult for some people -better to rate trail
similar to ski runs (1)
Improve road crossings (1)
Provide an official crossing from Portola Pastures (1)
More trails (1)
Better signage (1)
Reroute very steep trails to create a gentler grade (1)
Improve tread of outlying trails (1)
Eliminate ad hoc trails on fragile soils & hillsides (1)
All-weather trails that are professionally built (1)
All trails multiple use (1) .
Minor trails left open but unmarked (1)
Seasonal closures important (1)
4 Connectivity .
Connect to Foothills Park (water tank trail impassible in winter mud)(2)
Connect with Stanford trails (1)
Ability to access other Preserves (1)
8 Conservation! Education
Restore Oak tree population (1)
Spend available money on restoration of degraded areas (1)
Remove thistle, weeds (2)
Education (1)
Educate users to protect environment (1)
Native species planted (1)
Volunteer stewards is a good, on-going effort (1)
8 Ok the way It is
1 Other
Addition of Bressler property 1
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Questionnai re
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Appendix B
Compiled Results from Public Workshop #1
Workshop #1 Summary
Hike, Bike, Equestrian workbooks
General Comments
Overall
Let's not neuter the preserve. Its natural layout is enjoyab Ie. Curtain trails need help -
but overall. It's a wonderful resource. Need more signage -distance and yielding to
competing use. ;
IH/IEI Entering the Preserve
Road Crossing -Give 2-5 words that describe your experience traveling from the
parking lot and across Arastradero Road.
Hikers
• Good visibility. Cars too fast -need to slow cars down. Need horse signage and
speed bumps.
• Dangerous, traffic, bikers.
• Direction? Traffic, hot, dusty.
• Cut the roadside weeds easier! Sometimes difficult for drivers to see
hikers /bikers.
• No shade. Unpleasant sound walking on gravel. Trees would be great.
.• Easy, well-marked, good footing.
• Least interesting part of the trail system. If it stays (i.e. Arastradero property is
not acquired, suggest planting trees.)
• Bikes, cars, dogs, peds, allx-ing @ same time! Safe, busy, hot, slow cards down?
• Equestrian
• I learned how to cross streets in elementary school.
•
Bikers
• Not bad.
• Look left. Look right, go.
• Wish there were a stop sign.
• A bit scary sometimes.
Equestrians
• I learned how to cross streets in elementary school.
• No problem.
• No problem.
• Slightly scary.
•
Trail Entry-What are your thoughts about accessing the Preserve from the Parking
Lot?
: Hikers
• Very nice path. Needs a little maintenance.
• Okay, but could have wooden fenCing along the road and a pedestrian over
crossing-would be great and aesthetic but expensive. Would not put pavement,
parking lot on preserve side.
Workshop #1 Summary
Hike, Bike, Equestrian workbooks
• Directions to Preserve are not clear lots of traffic.
• A bit narrow for horses.
• Would be nice to access directly.
• Reasonable.
• OK, just void crossing feels dangerous. Log barricades are awkward for both
peds and bikes. Gravel is not the best grain size -too course -causing poor
footings. (as well as poor, slippery sllrface for bikes)Would be nice to have more
services @ lot (shade, seating, more information. Tree planting/wildflowers
along access trail.
• Equestrians
Bikers
More probably needed -otherwise park page mill to road wide.
Its fine accessing it from the LAH is hazardous. Open trail along
road to bikes!
Fine.
• Strongly prefer crossing directly from Portola Pastures.
• Acceptable. .
• Stressful crossing roads.
• Seems fine.
•
TrailBarricades -What suggestions do you have for the physically disadvantaged
wanting to access the Preserve?
Hikers
• Probably difficult
• Need smooth graded trails with no barricades.
• Need their own gate.
• What do other parks do? Could they get a key to the gate?
• Add small gate opposite end from log barricades. Give key code and paved good
footing through it.
• Similar to MROSD -Need a better barricade.
• Has to keep motorists/motorcyles out and let wheelchairs in styles, wheelchair g
ale?
Bikers
• A little bit of a hassle
• Remove all barricades.
• Remov~ logs.
• Pass" " " " " " " Would be better.
Equestrians
.• ADA Rules
.• Build a ramp with a gate that requires a key.
•
, What ideas do you have for discouraging access by unauthorized motorized
vehicles (including motorcycles)?
Workshop #1 Summary
Hike, Bike, Equestrian workbooks
-Citizen police? -People can write license plate numbers in suggestion box.
• Don't'see any -never have.
• It's working now.
. • None. Looks good to me here anyway.
• Probably okay as is with minor mods. (Perimeter trail to boundary needs ........... )
:. Current system works except@ P.1ot -easy access for motorge1es to East side .
••
• Bikers
• Wood logs work.
• * signs work. It's not the 70's anymore and people who own motorcy1es know
they are not allowed in most parks. (I don't think you need these barriers
anymore
• Heavy fines. Open hunting season on motorized vehicles in side park.
• Equestrians
• I support
• Current barricade system works fine but may not accommodate handicapped.
• Logs in front of trail. Signs and -rangers
• Trail key for disabled.
2HI Valleys & Hills
This trail offers a range of experiences relating to the terrain. Stop a moment at the
base of the hill. Here is an area that is frequently quite boggy. You can see that
this has caused the trail to be widened by trail users as they try to avoid this wet
area.
Hikers
Bikers
Should install a bridge/puncheon over drainage. Simple solution.
What are your feelings about traveling through boggy areaS in the winter months?
Hikers
Totally sucks -bad for horses and dogs and shoes. Don't neuter the Preserve make it
natural Disneyland.
• Yucky, would prefer hot ...... .it. Any way to put large rocks to ......... ? Ground?
Road ties.
• Hate it -trail needs to be raised and or drained.
• We don't -it is hard on the horses and tears up the trail.
• Impossible for all users.
• Keep bikers/horses off boggy areas in water. . .... areas designated as all weather -
and... ......... Don't plan to do it -avoidance
• Seasonal closures, small bridge/ elevated walking re-route trail.
• Don't do it -causes rats bad for trail.
• Seasonal closures, sma1.1 bridge/ elevated walkway re-route trail.
Workshop #1 Summary
Hike, Bike, Equestrian workbooks
Bikers
I carry my bike - I like winter.
Uncomfortable.
Feel bad.
•
• How does the imprint left in the winter affect your summer experience?
• Difficult to run -pits from horses. .
• Trail is rough, especially in late spring.
• By summer the trail smoothes out and is a good resting experience.
• Just watch footing.
• Makes me cautious of unstable grounds, twisting an ankle, e.g.
• Roughtails are harder to bike/hike also erosion not appealing.
• Rutted, uneven can be hard for bikers. Deep horse prints are hard on all users -
close to horses during winter.
•
• Bikers
• A dip is an enjoyable challenge on otherwise plain terrain ..
• Deep ruts make it hard to ride on trail pedals hit side of rut.
Now begin climbing up the hill towards Stop 3. As you climb, pause along the way
to consider your impressions. Does this trail feel steep? (Eq #3)
• No.
• Yes, especially towards the top.
• Not bad -Good workout for horse.
• No.
• Medium
• Because pitch is short, not too bad.
• Not particularly.
Bikers
Moderately. Trails steps up -...... pot holes -bad curbs.
Not very. My gears are adequate/ can stop and start agin fine.
Yes. Challenging.
Moderately, but Z like ........ .
Equestrian
• no
How do you think you would feel if you were traveling by bike or horse?
• My horse loves it.
• Bike steps ..... good workout. Horse -okay. .
• Uphill bike: quite a workout. Uphill horse: footing.
• Great!
Workshop #1 Summary
Hike, Bike, Equestrian workbooks
• No problem -watch out for ruts.
• Getting good/ exercise.
• No problem if bYhorse. Steep, but not bad by bike.
• Okay for all users.
Bikers
Foot okay.
Nice trail, nice workout. nice views.
Fine
Good, moderately challenged.
• Could you and/or would you negotiate this trail if your companion was in a
wheelchair, in a stroller or was a young child (under 8) on a bicycle?
•
• No -but than I would not be in the Preserve. You come here for the experience.
• No -wheelchair
• Not a chance.
• NO
• Wouldn't use stroller in any park like his would use backpack':' young child on a
bike probably no.
• No! -All questions. above ..
• No.
• No.
• (S ........ grassland on this hillside? Badly disturbed.)
• Wheelchair -okay for rugged / tough person. Okay for young hikers -maybe
• tough youngsters on bikes.
Bikers
No.
Not appropriate other trails better. The whole world doesn't have to accommodate the
handicapped wheelchairs for trails that are available. Yes -could tow a child in a
trailer.
No. Let them take other trails.
Wheelchairs -no. Others -yes, M ........... some walking may be ........... .
• While you are stopped look across the hill and you can see another trail which
parallels the one you are traveling on. .
• Not appropriate other trails better. Yes to towing a child in a trailer. The whole.
world doesn't have to accommodate the handicapped. Wheel chairs for trails are
available.
Does this parallel trail seem to offer similar experiences with regard to the terrain,
habitat, views, trail width and grade (trail steepness)?
• Yes.
• Yes to an but grade much less grade.
• When I have traveled these 2 trails they feel totally different.
• This one makes much larger loop.
Workshop #1 Summary
Hike,. Bike, Equestrian workbooks
• Yes, but steeper. Some more distrance from neighbors.
Bikers
Hard to teli from looking -seemed better.
Yes. .
Yes
Given that· there is a limited budget and personnel available to manage the Preserve,
what would be your preferred trail management strategy in this and similar
situations?
Bikers
Pick one trail.
• Route only one trail on this hill in the most environmentally superior location
(and restore portions of both of the routes that are no longer to be used)?
• Close the trail that has the most severe environmental constraints during the wet
winter season and manage the other for year-round use?
•
• No and leave both trails. And do what you did to trail by stop. 6 -Between Lake
and Bridge -Utility Trail.
• Work with the Preserve staff and Bay Area Action group to find additional
community resources to maintain both trails in their current configuration?
Other. ________________________ ~ __________________________ __
When I traveled these 2 trails, they feel totally
different.
• pt box -Yes (6) No ( )
• 2nd box Yes (5) No ( )
• 3rd box -Yes (3) No ( )
4th box -Other Yes. (1) We don't generally ride this trail. Have to keep a stray eye
out for bike coming down. They like to dome down FAST! Trail needs improvement
for horses -two way nuts. .
More trails would be even better.
• Trail should be regraded to full width, refronted in portions.
•
•
All options could work depending on the money / staff. Could
have both and designate one for Lillellord other for bikes.
Prefer the longer outer loop.
Workshop #1 Summary
Hike, Bike, Equestrian workbooks
·3 Neighbors & Vistas
You have just reached the top of the hill and the junction between two trails.
Do you wish you had a place to step off the trail to rest, enjoy the view?
•
• Yes - A ....... would be grand.
• Yes
• Take out the power lines .
.• A
• Not at this point, although perhaps somewhere along the trail.
• No, leave it undeveloped.
Bikers
• Yes.
• I do. What a silly question.
• No.
• No.
How does this space feel compared to your previous stop by the lake?
Equestrians
• Not applicable.
• Hilly
.• Open
•
Do you wish you had a place to step off the trail to rest, enjoy the view?
Equestrians
• Not applicable
• Yes.
• Not particularly.
What are your impressions of this property boundary?
Hikers
• From the ground -looks good.
• Beautiful VISTA. You see golfers to the left but not ....... of one golf course likely.
• Nice location -nice breeze, up drainage.
• Like the trail to the Los Altos Hills trails system. Hope the golfers don't slice one
into the horses.
• Terrible thistles.
• Looks okay from wh~t I can see. .
• Hard to see boundary which is good. Makes place feel bigger.
•
Bikers
• Yes
Workshop #1 Summary
Hike, Bike, Equestrian workbooks
• Yes
Equestrians
• Okay
• Greener pastures on the other side.
Do you feel that there is an adequate buffer between the adjacent property and the
Preserve? . '
Hikers
• Yes (4)
• More would be.
•
• Bikers.
• Yes.
• No. Would prefer not to see golf course.
•
Equestrians
Yes.
If you lived next to the trail would your perception be the same?
Hikers
• No
• I think so.
• Yes.
• Yes.
• Yes.
• Yes.
Bikers
• Sure
• Yes
• Yes
• Yes
Equestrians
• Yes.
• Yes
• Yes
N ow tum and look down the hill towards the homes at the bottom of the hill. There
is a neighborhood access point that provides a link to the Los Altos Hills trail system~
How important is this type of trail connectivity to neighboring residents?
Hikers
• Probably high.
Workshop #1 Summary
Hike, Bike, Equestrian workbooks
I don't know where or what these are so can't answer but other access sounds good.
• Extremely -keep.
• Important. .
• Very important.
• Very important!
• Extremely important.
•
Bikers
• Very important and, convenient.
• Very.
• Very.
Equestrians.
Very good.
Would you like tosee connections to:
•
• The Town of Los Altos Hills trails system?
• The Town of Portola Valley trail system?
• Midpennisula Regional Open Space Preserves?
• Lands of Stanford?
• Designation of a portion of the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail
through the Preserve? Other __________________________________________________ ___
• Box 1 Yes -(14)
• Box 2 Yes -(14)
• Box 3 Yes. -(14)
• Box 4 Yes. -(14)
• Box 5 Yes (11)
No ( )
No ().
No ( )
No ( )
No ()
• Box 6 -Other -Yes () Other -Foothill Park/Sky Line.
• Great ideas! If it will help with finding other ...... a waste of resources
Long range trail connections bay and sea.
• More the better -less round ........... '"
• Foothills Park.
Other -Alternatives for cyclists to narrow paved roads with dangerous cars ..
As many linkages as possible. . .
Equestrians
• Box no. 1 Yes (1)
• Box no. 3 Yes (1 )
• Box no 5 Yes ( 1 )
No
No
No
( )
( )
( )
Box no. 2 Yes ( 1) No
Box no 4 Yes (1) No
Box no 6 -Other --( )
(
(
)
)
Workshop #1 Summary
Hike, Bike, Equestrian workbooks
Asphalt trail dangerous.
4/3 E Trail Conditions
Junction of the narrow trail and the wider boundary trail.
Many of the soils in this Preserve are highly erosive. Look back up the trail that you
have just descended and you will see an example of the impact these soils can have
on trails over time.
Hikers
• No.
Bikers
Steepness of trail and improper de'sign of drainage contribute to gullying. (more than
soil type).
Equestrians (Note: Question worded: Did this trail feel steep?)
• No.
• No
• No
• No but it may to the horse.
Did the gullying in the trail surface make your descent difficult?
Hikers
• No -I love this part of the trail!
• Yes.
• Yes. -very.
• A bit with horses -take out asphalt and rock. Then no need for
• ..... trail-re-align.
• Very -I would not take my horse down this trail.
• Yes.
• Yes, sleepiness more than gullying. Trail needs erosion control features.
Bikers
Yes.
Difficult is not a bad word. Difficult conditions pose challenges that are rewarding to
. overcome.
Yes.
Yes.
Equestrians.
• No.
Workshop #1 Summary
Hike, Bike, Equestrian workbooks
• No
• No.
• No.
•
How do you think you would feel if you had climbed this section of trail on foot or
bike? (question designed for equestrians) .
Equestrians
• Mild
• (I can't hike -don't know).
• Okay
• It's steep.
Could you and/or would you negotiate this trail if your companion was in a
wheelchair, on foot pushing a stroller or was a young child (under 8) on a pony?
(question designed for equestrians)
Equestrians
• Pick a different trail.
.• No
• No.
• No. •
What do you think would help improve trail situations like this one? (You may check
as many as you find appropriate)
•
• Reducing the steepness of the slope by realigning the trail so it does not run
perpendicular to the slope of the hill?
• Revegetating the area adjacent to the trail?
• M()difying the surface of the trail with hardeners.
• Restricting the type of trail use by providing other trail alternatives?
• Restricting the volume of trail use by providing other trail alternatives?
• Other .
•
•
•
• Ptbox -Yes. (8) No (1)
• 2nd box Yes. (6) No ( )
• 3rd box -Yes (3) No (1)
• 4th box -Yes. (2) No ( )
• 5th box Yes (1 ) No (1)
• 6th box Yes (1) Other -See above -take out asphalt and north trail.
• Closing some trails entirely, particularly when alterna-
• tives exist closely.
• Prefer dirt to asphalt road surface.
Workshop #1 Summary
Hike, Bike, Equestrian workbooks
Commentaries
1st box
2nd box-
3rd box -In some cases.
4th box -"restricting the type of trail" steps with sand.
5th box -.-
6th box Less thistle type vegetatio~.
Bikers
• pt box -Yes. (1)
• 2nd box -Yes ( )
• 3rd box -Yes ( )
• 4 th box Yes ( )
• 5th box Yes ( )
• Other Yes ( )
Comments
No. ( )
No ( )
No ()
No ( )
No ( )
No ( ) I thought gulleys were due 0 run off or riding
Judicious use of waterb ....... would be
appropriate.
• 2nd box -To realign this road would do more damage to the environment than
leaving it alone and would waste park resources that should be used elsewhere.
Equestrians
r t box Yes () No ( )
2nd box Yes ( ) No ( )
3rd box Yes () No ( )
4 th box Yes ( ) No ()
Sthbox Yes () No ()
6th box Yes () No ()
Other Yes () No ()
Comments -By equestrian standards, this is very nominal.
5/ Wetlands & Riparian Corridors
Hikers
Do you feel a change in the temperature from your walk up the hill and across the
ridge?
What do you hear?
Hikers
• Honkings.
• Birds
• Birds -wind in trees.
• Birds and frogs.
• Birds
• Birds, hoof beats, people talking.
. Workshop #1 Summary
Hike, Bike, Equestrian workbooks
• Blackbirds and bullfrogs.
• Birds, frogs
•
• Bikers.
• Pumping station.
• Yes. Pump noise. Acorn woodpeckers. Redwing Blackbirds. Wren Bullfrog
• Birds, frogs.
• Equestrians
• People
• Cars and birds.
•
What do you smell?
• Pond
• Vegetation
• Pond smells.
• Moisture
• Pond.
• Water.
Bikers
• Horse stuff.
• Dry grass, mud.
• Horse stuff, trees.
• Decaying stuff around the ...................... ..
Equestrians
Plants
Mother nature.
Is it important to preserve this area for the animals who live here?
Hikers
• Yes, very.
• Yes, reduce fishermen's impact on lake m ......
• Very.
• Yes.
• Yes. More important than complete public access.
• Critical
Bikers
• Yes, except for rattlers.
• Is this a loaded question? I'm beginning to feel annoyed.
• .Yes.
• Yes.
Workshop #1 Summary
Hike, Bike, Equestrian workbooks
Equestrians
Absolutely.
Yes.
Would you consider this lake a good destination point on your hike/ride?
Why? Or why not?
Hikers
Okay stop -can't really see lake -mostly fire road.
• Yes -Variation
• Very nice.
• Yes, nice rest stop.
• No. Too many people.
• Too short -fine for people with kids.
• Yes. Quiet, cooler.
• If not crowded.
.• Yes, pretty, cool! shade.
•
Bikers
Okay stop -can't really see lake -mostly fire road.
Yes. I like to ride the loop around it counterclockwise to drop downstairs, portage over
creek. Make fun turn around Willow and stop under Willow to sit before coming out
on the road.
Lake is good, but I would stop further from the junction and the substation.
Equestrians
It is beautiful and shady.
• Is this lake located a comfortable distance from the parking lot to be considered a
destination point?
• Does this woodland provide a comfortable respite from the heat in the summer
months?
• Does it provide a sense of place inviting you to stay for awhile?
• Other __________________________________________ _
• 1st box -Yes (9)
• 2nd box -Yes (10)
• 3rd box -Yes (7)
4th box -Other -.
Comments
For kids or disabled.
No (1)
No ( )
No ( )
• Need control and .......... removal from pond.
• People leave trash here.
Workshop #1 Summary
Hike, Bike, Equestrian workbooks
Interesting spot for nature observations
Bikers
• rtbox -Yes ( ) No -too close ( )
• 2nd box-Yes. ( ) No ()
• 3rd box -Not really. Yes ( ) No ( )
• Other My dog likes to wet her feet and belly in the water and drink. Very
important stop for her on her rides.
Equestrians
1st box -Yes (1)
2nd box -Yes (1)
'3 rd box Yes (1)
Other 4th box Yes ( )
Comments
No ( )
No ( )
No (1)
No ( )
rtbox No boring
2nd box Perhaps
3rd box Not really.
4 th box -Other Beautiful area.
5E-Bogs
Equestrians
Here is area that is frequently quite boggy. You can see that this has caused the trail
to be widened and roughened by trail users as they try to avoid this wet area.
What are your feelings about traveling through boggy areas in the winter months?
• Go very slowly.
• May have to accepttemporary closures.
• Difficult to ride.
• I worry about my horse getting injured.
•
How does the imprint left in the winter affect your summer experience?
• Need to regrade. Lay down bed of rock for drainage.
• It works itself out in most cases.
• More flowers in bloom.
• It usually smoothes out after a few weeks of dry weather.
6 Grasslands
Hikers
Workshop #1 Summary
Hike, Bike, Equestrian workbooks
(Dea gravel -should have been a finer grade. Very unpleasant surface to hiker/biker.
Will not/is not staying ......... )
How does this place feel compared to your previous stop by the lake?
• Very California.
• Pleqsant but weedy -could use ........ trees if possible.
• Open Panoramic.
• Open! Love it! Very California experience.
• Beautiful but warmer -no place for kids to play.
• Less sheltered.
• Less of a distraction in summer.
• Hot, dry and open.
Bikers
• Hot -no shelter.
• Very nice area in spring when grasses are green and wildflowers blooming. Warm
in winter .
.• Open
• Warmer but quieter.
•
Is the preservation and encouragement of the native grasses important?
Hikers
• Yes
• Yes -Too many invasions now. The thistles are a huge problem.
• Absolutely!
• Yes.
• Yes -but is very resource intensive.
• Yes.
• Yes.
• Very! Displaces invasions.
Bikers
• dud .... yes.
• Yes
• Very.
Equestrians
• Yes
• Yes ..
• Yes
• Yes.
• Yes.
Do you have any suggestions for managing trail use to encourage the growth of the
native grasses and discourage the growth of non-natives such as thistles?
Workshop #1 Summary
Hike, Bike, Equestrian workbooks
• Terrific restoration of the creek. Love the Blue Rock.
• Remove invasions along plant trail edges so people will carry less invasive seed.
• Educational displays ....... point out.
• Natives/non-natives along the way and .......... volunterism.
• All round year trail-wide enough to allow passing without leaving trail path.
• Thanks for the trail work here. This was a big writer ......... Needs more work at the
eastern end to help disabled kids.
• Controlled burn for non-:-natives.
• Volunteer groups to pull weeds? I don't know if this is reasonable given the acrage
involved.
• Minimum soil disturbance of areas along trail and hillsides. Keep people on trails
and be careful in mowing along trails (not too (ow). (Serpentine grass land is nice in
Spring. Trail could be a little wider.)
• Awareness (eg. spreading seed via socks/tires/ dogs) -stay on trails. More vols. to
manage wash bikes, clean boots and dogs.
Bikers
• Unless you are certain that trail use contributes to the spreading of non-natives or
threatens the health of natives, leave them as they are. I don't think use is an issue
here.
• Kill non native, if easy, and not too expensive or (manually cut thistles of that
intrude on trail).
• Prescribed burns!
Equestrians
Spray the thistle.
7 Junction-Utility Trails & Narrow Trails
Do you have a clear idea of which trail you are on and where this trail will lead you?
If not, what would help to orient you?
Hikers
No, sign confusing.
• Signs with trail names 0
• Better Preserve Maps 0
Comments
Signs with destination points
Other: access included.
• Yes -we are experienced trail users.
• Yes at this spot. But I have a problem with many signs.
Workshop #1 Summary
Hike, Bike, Equestrian workbooks
• Terrific restoration of the creek. Love the Blue Rock.
• Remove invasions along plant trail edges so people will carry less invasive seed.
• Educational displays ....... point out.
• Natives/non-natives along the way and .......... volunterism.
• All round year trail-wide enough to allow passing without leaving trail path.
• Thanks for the trail work here. This was a big writer ......... Needs more work at the
eastern end to help disabled kids.
• Controlled burn for non-natives.
• Volunteer groups to pull weeds? I don't know if this is reasonable given the acrage
involved.
• Minimum soil disturbance of areas along trail and hillsides. Keep people on trails
and be careful in mowing along trails (not too (ow). (Serpentine grass land is nice in
Spring. Trail could be a little wider.)
• Awareness (eg. spreading seed via socks/tires/dogs) -stay on trails. More vols. to
manage wash bikes, clean boots and dogs.
Bikers
• Unless you are certain that trail use contributes to the spreading of non-natives or
threatens the health of natives,leave them as they are. I don't think use is an issue
here. .-
• Kill non native, if easy, and not too expensive or (manually cut thistles of that
intrude on trail).
• Prescribed burns!
Equestrians
Spray the thistle.
" ,I'
7 Junction-Utility Trails & Narrow Trails
Do you have a clear idea of which trail you are on and where this trail will lead you?
If not, what would help to orient you?
Hikers
No, sign confusing.
• Signs with trail names 0
• Better Preserve Maps 0
Comments
Signs with destination points
Other: access included.
• Yes -we ·are experienced trail users.
• Yes at this spot. But I have a problem with many signs.
Workshop #1 Summary
Hike, Bike, Equestrian workbooks
2nd box -Yes (6) • pt box -Yes (8)
• 3rd box -Yes (5)
•
4th box -Other -Signs, are confusing -no bikes at one
end -no sign a other end.
Bikers
UTA designations -either on sign or on
map.
• Ptbox-Yes (3) No () 2nd box Yes (2) No ()
• 3rd box Yes (3) No () 4th box Yes() No ()
SUI box -Other - I do not have 0 have trails laid out like streets. Being lost in a 600 acre park is not a life-
threatening issues and should not be a major concern.
Equestrians
1st box
3rd box
Yes (2) No
Yes (2) No ( )
( ) 2nd box
4th box Other
Yes ( 1 ), No ( )
If both/one of these (narrow)trails were going to the same destination and
traveled/routed though the same types of landscape experiences which one would
you choose?
1st box -Yes (2) 2nd box -Yes (12) Varies from day to day.
2nd box No question!
Need signage, back to parking lot.
Hikers, Bikers and Equestrians
• pt box Yes ( )
• 2ndbox Yes (2)
Would you make the same choice if your companion was
• A small child?
• A person in a wheelchair?
• If you were traveling alone?
Or in a group?
Hikers
• pt choice Yes. (7) No -(5) With distance markers.
Workshop #1 Summary
Hike, Bike, Equestrian workbooks
• 2nd choice-
• 3rd choice-
• 4th choice-
Bikers
• 1st choice
• 2nd choice
• 3rd choice
• 4th choice
Equestrians
• 1st choice
• 2nd choice
• 3rd choice
• 4th choice
•
Yes (3)
Yes. (6)
Yes (7)
Yes ( 1)
Yes ( 1)
Yes (2 )
Yes (2 )
Yes (1)
Yes ( )
Yes (1)
Yes (1)
No -(7)
No (1)
No. (1)
No (1)
No (1)
No ( )
No ( )
No ( )
No ( )
No ( )
No ( )
Comments
rtchoice
2nd choice
3rd choice
4th choice
not applicable, no -1'd choose utility
Would you choose the same route if you were traveling
• On horse Yes. (6) No ( )
• On bike? .. Yes. (5) No (1)
Bikers
• On foot Yes (3)
..... are good utility belts
............
probably ..............
neither
neither
• On horse Yes (2)
No ( )
No (1) Don't know.
Equestrians
• On foot. Yes ( 4 )
• On bike. Yes (1)
•
No ( )
No ( 1 )
If the narrow track trail looks more appealing to you, would you still select this trail
if the adjacent vegetation were predominately
•
• Thistle? Yes (7)
aged,
• Poison Oak? Yes (6)
•
• Comment
No (4) ,Depends on thick/overgrown. If man
No (4) not a problem for thistle or ppison oak.
maybe .
• Not a problem for thistle or poison oak
Workshop #1 Summary
Hike, Bike, Equestrian workbooks
• Maybe
• Neither (Equestrian)
Would you like to see maintenance activities (such as herbicides, mechanical or hand
techniques or prescribed burns) used on the Preserve to control invasive, unpleasant
plants adjacent to the trail?
Hikers
• Yes (2)
• No (1) and ........ yes, ........ yes, hand/9 .
• Prescribed burns.
• Hand techniques only. Okay -prescribed bums.
• Yes -some is necessary if trails are to be usable.
• No herbicides. Yes, burns, rowing, mechanical hand.
•
•
Bikers
Yes.
Yes. Although not for my sake, butlo assist native plant populations.
Yes.
Yes, especially prescribed burns.
If the utility trail has more appeal to you, is it because
•
• The native trail surface has been altered with the addition of gravel base rock?
• The width of the trail can accommodate people traveling side by side?
• The trail has a gentler slope?
Hikers, Bikers and Equestrians
Box no. 1 Yes (1) No ( )
Box no. 2 Yes(4) No ( )
Box no. 3 Yes. (3) No ( )
Respondent added Box no. 4 Leads to alternate park access for horses.
Comments
Box no. 1
Box no. 2
Box no. 3 The realignment was a good idea and well done.
Are there any other reasons why you select one of these trail types over the other?
Hikers
• Like smaller trails and vistas.
• It depends on how wet the ground is and it depends on the presence of other users.
• Utility trail is very ugly anq gravel is noisy. '
• N/A
• Single track is cooler in summer. (Less reflective surface). Also, more direct contact
, with nature, varied surface/ grade.
Workshop #1 Summary
Hike, Bike, Equestrian workbooks
• Bikers
• Single track is more fun flat or downhill. Wider is better uphill.
• Single track is more natural, more steep, mOre fun, more winding with more
surprises. .
• Equestrians
• Convenient to better trails or quicker return.
• Low vegetation some base trails are too low.
• I like both.
•
S/2E Bay Area Action Restoration Site
Has this site been adequately secured and noticed to keep trail users out of the site?
• No. I see evidence of current use.
• Yes, I enjoyed the information though the sign was knocked down at one point
• Yes.
• Okay, could be better.,
Bikers
No -the little sign can be missed.
Yes,-seems to have worked well. (See note on next page).
• Equestrians.
• Excellent work.
• More signs spread along the trail would help.
Equestrians
Excellent work.
Yes
Yes ..
Do you wish you had more information about the work that is being done?
Hikers
• Yes.
• You might add web page for reference.
• Adequate
• Yes.
•
Bikers
• Yes
• Yes
• No
• Yes
Equestrians.
• No.
• Yes.
Workshop #1 Summary
Hike, Bike, Equestrian workbooks
• Yes.
• Yes
Would you like to have information on how you could become involved in their
restoration work?
Hikers
• Yes.
• Notices should be posted .•
• See above.
• Perhaps note to see more information at kiosk in parking lot.
• Yes.
• No, thank you.
Bikers
• Yes
• Yes
• No
• Yes.
Equestrians
• No
• No.
• Not sure.
• Sure
•
What would be the best way to communicate this information to you?
• Through signing immediately adjacent to the site?
• With signing at the future Gateway features that are to be developed at the existing
parking lot?
• By docent led tours?
• Through a guidebook about the Preserve?
• On the City Web page (www.city.palo-alto.ca.us.\ross\preserves.html)?
• In a Bay Area Action Newsletter (www.arastradero.org)
•
• pI response -Yes (15)
• 2nd response -Yes (9)
• 3rd response -Yes (2)
• 4th response -Yes (8)
• 5 th response -Yes (9)
• 6 th response -Yes (6)
No All would be helpful, would reach different ...
No
No
No
No
No
Comments
• 1 sl response
• 2nd response
• 3rd response
• 4th response
• 5th response
A lot of trouble to coordinate
Workshop #1 Summary
Hike, Bike, Equestrian workbooks
• 6th response What? Most people aren't that involved. Signs on site best.
Also spread word via other interested organizations such as
ROMP.
9 Parallel Trails
Equestrians
This trail offers a range of experiences relating to the terrain. Stop amoment midway
down the hill. While you are stopped look across the hill and you can see another
trail which parallels the one you are traveling on.
Does this parallel trail seem to offer similar experiences with regard to the terrain,
habitat, views, trail width and grade (trail steepness)?
Mild trail.
• Yes
• Difficult to say.
Given that there is a limited budget and personnel available to manage the Preserve,
what would be your preferred trail management strategy in this and similar
situations?
Route only one trail on this hill in the most environmentally superior location (and
restore portions of both of the routes that are no longer to be used)?
Close the trail that has the most severe environmental constraints during the wet
winter season and manage the other for year-round use?
Work with the Preserve staff and Bay Area Action group to find additional community
resources to maintain both trails in their current configuration?
1st choice
2nd choice
3rd choice
4th choice
Yes ( )
Yes (2)
Yes ( )
-Other
No ()
No ( )
No ( )
Workshop #1 Summary
Hike, Bike, Equestrian workbooks
• 6th response What? Most people aren't that involved. Signs on site best.
Also spread word via other interested organizations such as
ROMP.
9 Parallel Trails
Equestrians
This trail offers a range of experiences relating to the terrain. Stop amoment midway
down the hill. While you are stopped look across the hill and you can see another
trail which parallels the one you are traveling on.
Does this parallel trail seem to offer similar experiences with regard to the terrain,
habitat, views, trail width and grade (trail steepness)?
Mild trail. .
• Yes
• Difficult to say.
Given that there is a limited budget and personnel available to manage the Preserve,
wha~ would be your preferred trail management strategy in this and similar
situations? .
Route only one trail on this hill in the most environmentally superior location (and
restore portions of both of the routes that are no longer to be used)?
Close the trail that has the most severe environmental constraints during the wet
winter season and manage the other for year-round use?
Work with the Preserve staff and Bay Area Action group to find additional community
resources to maintain both trails in their current configuration?
r t choice
2nd choice
3rd choice
4th choice
Yes ( )
Yes (2)
Yes ( )
-Other
No ()
No ( )
No ( )