Bel Marin Keys Community Services District Lock and Flood Gate Maintenance Project

The Bel Marin Keys Community Services District Lock and Flood Gate Maintenance Project involves the repair and in-kind replacement of lock gate operational mechanisms, seals, and linkages, as well as maintenance of adjacent seawalls and flood gates in Novato, California. The scope of work includes silt removal at flood gates during low tide and the implementation of specific dewatering procedures using lagoon-side and creek-side stolpogs to minimize environmental impacts on Novato Creek. The project is categorized as a categorical exemption under CEQA Section 15301 for existing facilities, as it involves no new infrastructure modifications or fill placement. The project will be executed in three distinct phases occurring one year apart, focusing on the South Lock in Phase A, the North Lock in Phase B, and the North Flood Gates in Phase C. To protect special-status species, including the California Ridgway's rail and other nesting birds, all work must be performed within a strict seasonal window from September 1 to January 31. Access to the project sites is limited to the lagoon and existing hardened infrastructure to ensure no vegetated areas are affected. Lisa Lue, the District Manager, serves as the primary point of contact for the agency.