McDonald Ranch Williamson Act Amendment (BRB)

The McDonald Ranch Williamson Act Amendment project, managed by Sacramento County, seeks to amend existing Williamson Act Contract 74-AP-009 to permit open space as a compatible use. This amendment facilitates the establishment of a 170-acre wildlife preserve at 9011 New Hope Road in unincorporated Sacramento County, which will be maintained under a recorded conservation easement. The project scope includes site restoration through grading to create seasonal wetlands, marshes, and associated grassland habitats, as well as the planting and seeding of oak or elderberry to develop woodland habitats. The project is classified as a forecast under NAICS code 541320 and has been granted a Notice of Exemption under CEQA Guidelines Sections 15304 and 15317, as it involves minor land alterations and open space contracts with no significant environmental impacts. Key constraints include a prohibition on tree removal and grading within existing wetlands or waterways. While the project site is located within a 100-year FEMA flood zone, no development is currently proposed. The effort is coordinated by Environmental Coordinator Julie Newton and applicant Kim Erickson.