CALIFORNIA RED-LEGGED FROG HABITAT PROTECTION, - POND 1 SPILLWAY REPAIR AND CHANNEL RESTORATION

The Solano Transportation Authority is overseeing the California Red-Legged Frog Habitat Protection project at Vallejo Swett Ranch in Vallejo, California. The project focuses on the repair of the Pond 1 spillway and dam to prevent structural failure and protect critical breeding and rearing habitat for the endangered California Red-Legged Frog. The scope of work includes removing the deteriorated concrete spillway, rehabilitating the earth-fill dam, installing a 6-inch steel siphon for controlled drainage and bullfrog removal, and constructing an armored spillway with a stilling basin. Additionally, the project involves downstream channel restoration using rip-rap and geotextile fabric, planting native riparian vegetation, and installing wildlife-friendly fencing to exclude livestock. The total estimated project value is 500,000 dollars, with 230,000 dollars allocated for compliance, engineering, and permitting, and 270,000 dollars dedicated to a long-term conservation endowment. Performance is scheduled for a four-week window between September and mid-October to minimize environmental impact. The project is governed by a CEQA Class 33 Categorical Exemption and requires several regulatory approvals, including Clean Water Act Sections 404 and 401 permits, a Lake and Streambed Alteration Agreement from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, and a major grading permit from Solano County. Solano Land Trust is identified as the party responsible for carrying out the restoration activities.