Master Permit for Env. Enhancement Projects

The Seascape Wetland Enhancement Project Phase II, executed under Lake and Streambed Alteration Agreement EPIMS-SCR-59398-R3, is an environmental initiative led by the Center for Natural Lands Management and approved by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife pursuant to Fish and Game Code section 1602. Located within the Seascape Uplands Preserve in Santa Cruz County, the project focuses on enhancing breeding habitat for the endangered Santa Cruz Long-toed salamander at Pond 1. The scope of work involves targeted vegetation management, including the removal of approximately 8,200 square feet of California bulrush, 5,700 square feet of willow, 1,300 square feet of vegetation thinning, and the removal of up to 12 black locust trees. All activities will be performed using hand removal and targeted herbicide treatments, with a strict prohibition on the use of heavy equipment or road construction. Site logistics include a 500 square foot staging area for refueling and mixing, and a 650 square foot area for stockpiling cleared materials. The project was approved on June 6, 2025, following a Mitigated Negative Declaration, with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife determining that the project would not have a significant environmental effect within its jurisdiction, provided that specific mitigation measures are implemented as conditions of approval.