Shelterwood Crossings Project (Notification of Lake or Streambed Alteration, No. EPIMS-SON-52695-R3)

The Shelterwood Crossings Project, identified by Lake and Streambed Alteration Agreement EPIMS Notification No. EPIMS-SON-52695-R3, is an agreement executed by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife with Shelterwood Collective. Located at five unnamed tributaries to Bearpen Creek in Sonoma County, California, the project involves the removal and replacement of four existing culverts with upsized corrugated metal pipe (CMP) to improve flow conveyance and reduce erosion. Additionally, the scope includes replacing a 20-foot-long culvert with a rock ford at map point 1.11, which involves removing existing concrete wingwalls, and reconstructing a low water crossing at map point 1.18 within its existing footprint. The project is categorized under a statutory exemption as a Class 2 categorical exemption, as it replaces existing structures with new ones of substantially the same purpose and capacity. Environmental management is a central component of the project, which will result in approximately 236 square feet of permanent riparian habitat impact from culvert extensions and new riprap, alongside approximately 2,460 square feet of temporary riparian impacts. The work also necessitates the removal of five riparian trees. To mitigate environmental disturbance, all construction activities must occur when the tributaries are dry and no surface water is present, with access and staging restricted to existing roads. Administrative oversight is provided by James Hansen, an Environmental Scientist with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, while Nikola Alexandre serves as the project steward for Shelterwood Collective.