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PACIFIC GAS AND ELECTRIC COMPANY

Bucks Creek Hydroelectric ProjectFERC Project No. 619

Draft Recreation Management Plan

MonthDecember 20167

©20167, Pacific Gas and Electric Companyand the City of Santa Clara

PACIFIC GAS AND ELECTRIC COMPANY

AND THE CITY OF SANTA CLARA

Bucks Creek Hydroelectric Project

FERC Project No. 619


MonthDecember 20167

©20167, Pacific Gas and Electric Companyand the City of Santa Clara

Bucks Creek Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 619Recreation Management Plan

Bucks Creek Hydroelectric ProjectFERC Project No. 619


TABLE OF CONTENTS

SECTION 1.0 INTRODUCTION........................................................................................

1.1 Background..........................................................................................................1-11.2 Purpose of the Recreation Management Plan.......................................................1-31.3 Goals and Objectives of the Recreation Management Plan.................................1-31.4 Contents of the Recreation Management Plan.....................................................1-4

SECTION 2.0 EXISTING RECREATION RESOURCES...............................................

SECTION 3.0 RECREATION MEASURES......................................................................

3.1 Replacement of Project Recreation Facilities over the New License Term.........3-13.1.1 General Site Design Considerations for Replacing Facilities..................3-13.1.2 Accessibility Design when Replacing Facilities......................................3-43.1.3 Planning, Designing, and Reconstruction................................................3-4

3.2 Recreation Facility Upgrades and Heavy Maintenance.......................................3-63.2.1 Upgrades at Project Recreation Facilities................................................3-63.2.2 Heavy Maintenance at Project Recreation Facilities................................3-6

3.3 New Recreation Facility Development................................................................3-83.4 Recreation Facility Operation and Maintenance..................................................3-8

3.4.1 Scope of Recreation Facility Operation and Maintenance.......................3-83.4.2 Responsibility for Project Recreation Facility Operation and

Maintenance.............................................................................................3-93.5 Assess Sediment Accumulation at Sandy Point Boat Launch...........................3-11

SECTION 4.0 TREATMENTS FOR RESOURCE IMPACTS RELATED TO PROJECT RECREATION USE................................................................

4.1 Resource Impacts Related to Project Recreation Use..........................................4-14.1.1 Engineering Measures..............................................................................4-14.1.2 Restoration Measures...............................................................................4-14.1.3 Public Education.......................................................................................4-2

4.2 Treatments of Project Recreation Use Impacts....................................................4-2

December 20167 Page i Table of Contents

Bucks Creek Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 619©20167, Pacific Gas and Electric Company

and the City of Santa Clara


SECTION 5.0 RECREATION MONITORING PROGRAM..........................................

5.1 Monitoring Methods.............................................................................................5-15.1.1 Recreation Facility Occupancy Records..................................................5-25.1.2 Recreation Occupancy Observation Survey.............................................5-25.1.3 Recreation User Survey............................................................................5-35.1.4 Resource Impact Surveys.........................................................................5-35.1.5 Water Surface Observations.....................................................................5-3

5.2 Facility Occupancy Indicators and Standards......................................................5-75.3 Social Indicators and Standards...........................................................................5-7

5.3.1 Perceived Crowding.................................................................................5-75.3.2 Conflicts or Problems with Other Recreation Users..............................5-12

5.4 Monitoring Reporting.........................................................................................5-13

SECTION 6.0 ANNUAL RECREATION COORDINATION MEETING AND PLAN REVISION........................................................................................

6.1 Annual Recreation Coordination Meeting...........................................................6-16.2 Plan Revision........................................................................................................6-2

SECTION 7.0 REFERENCES.............................................................................................

Table of Contents Page ii December 20167




ATTACHMENTS

Attachment A. Project Recreation Tables

(1) Recreation Facilities Table—A two-column table that identifies all FERC-approved recreation facilities for each recreation site at the Project; and

(2) Recreation Amenities Table—A nine-column table that lists the FERC-approved amenities and provides details concerning location, approval order, and status of the amenity

Attachment B. As-built Site Plan Drawings[pdf of 22x34 format drawings]

(1) Overall Site Plan—Drawing(s) of all FERC-approved Project recreation facilities; and

(2) Individual Recreation Site Drawings—As-built recreation site plan

December 20167 Page iii Table of Contents




LIST OF TABLES

Table 2-1. Project Recreation Facilities, Land Ownership, and Operation and Maintenance Responsibility Under License Expiring December 31, 2018................................................................................................................

Table 2-2. Recreation Opportunity Spectrum (ROS) Classifications and the Associated Level of Site Modification...........................................................

Table 3.1-1. Schedule of Replacement/Reconstruction for All Existing Project Recreation Facilities.......................................................................................

Table 3.2-1 PLACEHOLDER...........................................................................................

Table 3.2-2 PLACEHOLDER...........................................................................................

Table 3.4-1. Land Ownership and Operation and Maintenance Responsibilities at Project Recreation Facilities Under the Term of a New License.................

Table 4.2-1. Areas of Concern Identified in Licensees’ Recreation Use Impact Assessment.....................................................................................................

Table 5.1-1. Summary of Monitoring Frequency and Information....................................

Table 5.1-2. Type of Monitoring by Project Reservoir and Site........................................

Table 5.2-1. Facility Occupancy Indicators, Monitoring Methods, Standards, and Potential Management Actions for Project Recreation Facilities...................

Table 5.2-2. Project Recreation Facility Groupings.........................................................

Table 5.3-1. Land- and Water-Based Social Monitoring Indicators and Standards.........

Table 5.4-1. Summary of Monitoring Reporting Frequency and Information.................

Table of Contents Page iv December 20167




LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1.1-1. Project and Non-Project Recreation Facilities at Bucks Creek Hydroelectric Project......................................................................................

Figure 5.1-1. Bucks Lake Water Surface Areas for Monitoring..........................................

December 20167 Page v Table of Contents




This Page Intentionally Left Blank

Table of Contents Page vi December 20167




Definitions of Terms, Acronyms, and Abbreviations

For the purpose of this Plan, the following definitions apply:

Term Definition

A

ABA Architectural Barriers Act of 1968

ABAAS ABA Accessibility Standards

AC asphalt concrete

Access Board Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board

ADA Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990

C

CDEC California Data Exchange Center

Conceptual Plan A preliminary graphic illustration of proposed facilities and utilities in relationship to existing site features, facilities, and utilities for the purpose of communicating proposed development ideas or alternatives. May include enlargements of the area using aerial photography or topographic maps that indicate placement and orientation of the proposed facilities.

F

FERC Federal Energy Regulatory Commission

Forest Service USDA, Forest Service

FSORAG Forest Service Outdoor Recreation Area Guidelines

FSTAG Forest Service Trail Accessibility Guidelines

Final License Application

Application for a new license for Bucks Creek Hydroelectric Project (FERC Project No. 619), December 2016.

H

MonthDecember 20167 Page i Definitions




Term Definition

Heavy maintenance Recondition, renovation, or improvement that arrests deterioration, improves and upgrades facilities, and appreciably prolongs the life of the property. Examples include, but are not limited to, installing a new roof, new floor, or new siding; rebuilding boilers; replacing pipes, pumps, and motors; repairing or maintaining the paths, lands, walks, walls, or landscaping adjacent to other government-owned structures; replacing vault toilets with flush facilities, paving interior roads, upgrading facilities, and installing utilities; and performing exterior painting and refinishing. Exterior painting that repairs unsightly visual marks caused by everyday use does not meet the definition outlined above (USFSForest Service 2003).

L

LRMP Plumas National Forest Land and Resource Management Plan

Licensees Pacific Gas and Electric Company and the City of Santa Clara, joint Licensees

M

Maintenance Actions taken to keep fixed assets in acceptable condition. Maintenance includes performing repairs and preventive maintenance, and replacing parts and structural components, and other activities needed to preserve a fixed asset so that it continues to provide acceptable service and achieves its expected life. Maintenance includes work needed to meet laws, regulations, codes, and other legal direction as long as the original intent or purpose of the fixed asset is not changed. Maintenance excludes activities aimed at expanding capacity of an asset or otherwise upgrading it to serve needs different from or significantly greater than those originally intended, such as construction of new facilities (USFSForest Service 2003).

N

NFSL National Forest System land

NFFR North Fork Feather River

O

O&M operations and maintenance

Definitions Page ii MonthDecember 20167




Term Definition

P

Paving Surface treatment with asphalt concrete (AC)

Peak season Saturday of Memorial Day weekend through Monday of Labor Day weekend

PG&E Pacific Gas and Electric Company

PNF Plumas National Forest

Project Bucks Creek Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 619

Project Area The geographic area defined in the Project license issued by FERC as needed for Project O&M and delimited by the Project Boundary

Project Boundary The boundary defined in the license issued by FERC for the Project outlining the geographic area needed for Project O&M

R

RV Recreation vehicle

Reconstruction Removing and replacing existing infrastructure with new materials to return a damaged recreation development (e.g., campground, picnic area, boat launch) to its original capacity and purpose. Restores the recreation development to the beginning of its useful life.

Recreation Improvement

Construction, installation, or assembly of a new fixed asset, or the significant alteration, expansion, or extension of an existing fixed asset to accommodate a change of purpose. Major recreation improvements require significant planning and implementation (generally over a 3- to 5-year period that includes, survey, design, implementation planning and permitting), that results in the construction/installation of a new facility that did not previously exist or work that changes the site layout or footprint of an existing facility. Minor recreation improvements do not require significant planning and implementation timeframes, and generally enhance an existing facility without altering the site layout/footprint or involves construction or installation of a new basic fixed asset that does not require survey or design work (e.g., wildlife resistant food storage lockers, signs, vehicle barriers, water spigots).

MonthDecember 20167 Page iii Definitions




Term Definition

ROS Recreation Opportunity Spectrum: A tool used by USFSForest Service managers to classify NFSL into six management class categories defined by setting and the probable recreation experiences and activities it affords including: Urban; Rural; Roaded Natural; Semi-primitive Motorized; Semi-primitive Non-motorized; and Primitive. PNF uses two categories for the Roaded Natural classification: (1) Roaded Natural and (2) Roaded Modified.

Rehabilitation Improving, reconditioning or replacing an existing fixed asset or any of its components in order to restore the functionality or life of the asset. The decision to replace or rehabilitate a fixed asset or component is usually reached when replacement is more cost effective or more environmentally sound than repairing the existing asset.

Relicensing Participants

Individuals who actively participate in the relicensing proceedings

Replacement Substitution or exchange of an existing fixed asset or component with one having essentially the same capacity and purpose (USFSForest Service 2003). Replacement of an asset or component usually occurs when it nears or has exceeded its useful life.

S

Site Development Plan This plan presents a comprehensive graphic illustration of the facilities and utilities (both existing and proposed) to be built and is based on and consistent with the conceptual plan. The site development plan is based on an accurate survey, usually drawn to a scale ranging from 1” = 20’ or 1” = 100’, with appropriate contour information, and may also include descriptions or lists of features. This plan also identifies the site design details (e.g., picnic tables, fire rings, restrooms, signage, road surface materials).

T

Definitions Page iv MonthDecember 20167




Term Definition

Tenant maintenance Maintenance, reconditioning, or renovation that neither materially adds to the value of the property nor appreciably prolongs its life. The work serves only to keep the facility in an ordinary, efficient operating condition. From an accounting or tax perspective, it is work that may be expensed but not capitalized. Examples include, but are not limited to, interior decorating, interior painting, vandalism repair, repair of broken windows, light bulb replacement, cleaning, unplugging drains, drive belt replacement, preventive maintenance, lubrication of motors, greasing, servicing, inspecting, oiling, adjusting, tightening, aligning, watering, weeding, sweeping, waxing, refinishing picnic tables, routine housekeeping, and general snow removal (USFSForest Service 2003).

U

USDA U.S. Department of Agriculture

USFS USDA, Forest Service

USGS U.S. Geological Survey

MonthDecember 20167 Page v Definitions




SECTION 1.0

Introduction1.1 Background Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) and the City of Santa Clara (City) (collectively the “Licensees”), are filing with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) this Recreation Management Plan (Plan) to supplement their Final License Application (FLA) for the Bucks Creek Hydroelectric Project (Project), FERC Project No. 619. The Licensees are the owners of the Project and hold the current FERC license, which expires on December 31, 2018; PG&E operates the Project. Implementation of the Plan will be guided by the final FERC Project Boundary as defined in the new license, or as modified thereafter. For the purposes of the Draft Plan, “FERC Project Boundary” refers to the Proposed FERC Project Boundary described in Section E.6, Proposed Action of the Final License Application, unless otherwise noted. Licensees will be jointly responsible for implementation of the Plan under the new license.

The Project is located on Bucks, Grizzly, and Milk Ranch creeks, which are tributaries to the North Fork Feather River (NFFR). The Project is located entirely within Plumas County, California in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, approximately 17 miles southwest of the community of Quincy. The Project consists of two developments that contain four dams, four reservoirs, and two powerhouses, and associated facilities. Figure 1.1-1 shows these features as well as recreation facilities (Project and non-Project) at and near the Project.

December 20167 Page 1 Section 1.0




Figure 1.1-1. Project and Non-Project Recreation Facilities at Bucks Creek Hydroelectric ProjectSection 1.0 Page 2 December 20167




Most of the land within the FERC Project Boundary is National Forest System land (NFSL) managed by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Forest Service (Forest ServiceUSFS) as part of the Plumas National Forest (PNF). Other land within the FERC Project Boundary is owned by PG&E and other private entities.

1.2 Purpose of the Recreation Management Plan The overall purpose of the Plan is to describe protection, mitigation, and enhancement recreation measures Licensees propose for the Project and document consultation with state and federal agencies regarding these measures. To serve this purpose, Licensees developed this Plan, which includes the following:

Recreation Facilities and Recreation Amenities tables to comply with FERC guidance document, Project Recreation Facilities Tables and As-built Site Plan Guidance (FERC 2014);

Description and schedule for all planned recreation improvements, reconstruction, and heavy maintenance;

Description of operations and maintenance (O&M) responsibilities for all Project recreation facilities; and

Description of the consultation process with agencies and representatives of recreation interests, and the recreation monitoring program Licensees will implement throughout the term of the license.

In 2016, Licensees consulted with the appropriate federal and state agencies and representatives of recreation interests about the outline and content of the Plan, which included meetings held on September 7 and October 20.; Relicensing Participants intend to continue cConsultation continued in 2017 to complete Plan development.

1.3 Goals and Objectives of the Recreation Management Plan

The goals of the Plan are to (1) manage public recreation use of the Project’s recreation facilities over the term of the license, and (2) eliminate or minimize recreation-related Project effects within the Project Area. The Plan includes the following objectives to achieve these goals:

[1.] Provide recreation facilities that meet the needs of Project recreation users which are consistent with state and federal requirements and the PNF Land and Resource Management Plan (LRMP, USFSForest Service 1988) guidance;

1.[2.] Address existing and future recreation-related resource impacts over the term of the new license;

2.[3.] Monitor recreation use over the term of the new license to ensure Project recreation users achieve quality recreation experiences and eliminate or minimize effects of Project-related recreation use;





3.[4.] Describe Licensees’ responsibilities related to recreation facilities and monitoring under the new license; and

4.[5.] Enhance whitewater boating opportunities and the accessibility of Project recreation facilities.

1.4 Contents of the Recreation Management Plan This Plan includes the following sections:

Section 1. Introduction . Introductory information, including the purpose and objectives of the Plan.

Section 2. Existing Project Recreation Res o urces. Description of existing Project recreation resources, facilities, land ownership, and 2015 use levels.

Section 3. Recreation Facility Measures. Description of the proposed recreation measures, including rehabilitation of existing recreation facilities and Proposed Action recreation O&M program.

Section 4. Treatments for Resource Impacts Related to Project Recreation Use. Description of measures to address recreation-related resource impacts.

Section 5. Recreation Monitoring Program. Description of the proposed recreation monitoring program that defines how Project recreation facilities, use, needs, and recreation use impacts will be monitored and addressed over the new license term.

Section 6. Annual Coordination and Plan Revision. Description of the processes for annual consultation and assessing the need for future revisions to the Plan.

Section 7. References. List of references used to prepare the Plan.

In addition, this Plan includes the following attachments:

Attachment A . Project Recreation Facility Tables consisting of:

– Recreation Facilities Table (Table A-1) —A two column table that identifies all FERC-approved recreation facilities for each recreation site at the Project; and

– Recreation Amenities Table (Table A-2) —A nine column table which lists the FERC-approved amenities and provides details concerning location, approval order, and status of the amenity.

Attachment B . As-built Site Plan Drawings consisting of:

– Overall Site Plan—Drawing(s) of all FERC-approved Project recreation facilities; and

– Individual Recreation Site Drawings—As-built recreation site plans*

* Site drawings are only included for existing, constructed Project recreation facilities under the license currently expiring December 31, 2018. As-built site drawings for any new or reconstructed recreation facilities will be filed with FERC within

Section 1.0 Page 4 December 20167





90 days of completing construction/reconstruction.





SECTION 2.0

Existing Recreation ResourcesThe Project includes four primary recreation areas, all of which are based around the four Project reservoirs: (1) Bucks Lake, (2) Lower Bucks Lake, (3) Three Lakes, and (4) Grizzly Forebay (see Figure 1.1-1). The recreation sites associated with the Project are about 17 miles west of Quincy along the Oroville-Quincy Highway (also known as Bucks Lake Road). Plumas County maintains the road for seasonal access, allowing the road to be closed to highway vehicle traffic in the winter due to snow cover. Licensees conducted recreation relicensing studies and the study results report information about recreation resources from 2015 to 2016. Study results are reported in the following technical memoranda:

TM-04 Whitewater Boating and Fishing Flow Assessment (RR-S2)

TM-16 Reservoir Level Assessment (RR-S3)

TM-27 Recreation Facilities (RR-S1)

TM-28 Reservoir Shoreline and Water Surface Use Assessment (RR-S1)

TM-29 Recreation Use Impact Assessment (RR-S1)

TM-30 Visitor Use (RR-S1)

TM-31 Recreation Questionnaires (RR-S1)

TM-37 Wildcat and Tobin Trail Assessments (RR-S2)

TM-41 Whitewater Boating and Fishing Flow Assessment (RR-S2), Phase 3, Grizzly Creek Whitewater Boating Flow Assessment

Although Licensees have shared operation and maintenance responsibilities for the existing Project recreation facilities under the license expiring December 31, 2018, Licensees will be responsible for operation and maintenance for all Project recreation facilities under the term of the new license. The existing Project recreation resources and the entity responsible for their operation and maintenance under the license expiring December 31, 2018 are shown in Table 2-1. Definitions for the USFSForest Service Development Scale referenced in Table 2-1 are provided in Table 2-2.





Table 2-1. Project Recreation Facilities, Land Ownership, and Operation and Maintenance Responsibility Under License Expiring December 31, 2018

ProjectRecreation Facilitya Capacityb Amenities

USFSForest Service

Development Scale

Land Ownership/Operation and Maintenance

Responsibilityc

Bucks Lake

Bucks Lake Inlet Parking

Informal parking for about 20 to 30 vehicles adjacent to USFSForest Service-managed Mill Creek Trailhead parking

None; area available for parking is located along road shoulder NA PG&E/PG&E

Haskins Valley Boat Launch 5 parking spaces (single vehicle)

Paved parking area Single-lane (14 ft), concrete boat launch Potable water 1 double-unit vault restroom (1 of 6

Haskins Valley Campground restrooms) Paved parking area

NA PG&E/PG&E

Haskins Valley Campground

65 campsites 2 host campsites

Tent and trailer sites Spurs Fire rings (some pedestal fire grills) Tables Potable water 6 double-unit vault restrooms (1 of which

is located at the Haskins Valley Boat Launch)

Wildlife resistant food lockers RV dump station (available for public

use)

NA PG&E/PG&E






USFSForest Service

Development Scale


Responsibilityc

Hutchins Group Campground

3 group campsites (25 PAOT each) 1 host campsite

Tent and trailer sites Spurs Fire rings and pedestal fire grills Tables Potable water 2 double-unit vault restrooms Wildlife resistant food lockers Amphitheater

3 NFSL/USFSForest Service

Indian Rock Day Use Area

2 picnic sites 8 parking spaces (single vehicle)

Tables 1 double-unit vault restroom Paved parking area

3d NFSL/PG&E

Mill Creek Campground

11 campsites(including 1 host campsite)

Tent and trailer sites Spurs Fire rings Tables Potable water 1 double-unit vault restroom Wildlife resistant food lockers


Sandy Point Boat Launch

30 parking spaces (vehicle with trailer)

Single-lane (24 ft) concrete boat launch Courtesy dock Children’s PFD loan rack

3d NFSL/USFSForest Service






USFSForest Service

Development Scale


Responsibilityc

Sandy Point Day Use Area

30 picnic sites 1 host campsite 22 parking spaces (single vehicle)

Tables Pedestal fire grills 2 double-unit vault restrooms 1 4-unit shower with flush restroom Potable water

3d NFSL/USFSForest Service

Sundew Campground 23 campsites (including 1 host campsite)

Tent and trailer sites Spurs Fire rings Tables Potable water 2 double-unit vault restrooms Wildlife resistant food lockers


West End Cove Day Use Area

3 picnic sites 6 parking spaces (single vehicle)

Tables 1 double-unit vault restroom Paved parking area

3d NFSL/PG&E

Lower Bucks Lake

Lower Bucks Lake Campground and Day Use Area

7 campsites

Spurs Fire rings Tables Wildlife resistant food lockers Informal boat launch and beach Unsurfaced access for launching and

shoreline use 1 single-unit vault restroom

2(boat launch and

beach area)

NFSL/USFSForest Service

3(campground)






USFSForest Service

Development Scale


Responsibilityc

Grizzly Forebay

Grizzly Forebay Campground 7 campsites

Fire rings Tables 1 double-unit vault restroom

2 NFSL/PG&E

Grizzly Forebay Trail Approximately 0.77 mi Native surfaced shoreline trail NA NFSL/PG&E

Grizzly Forebay Gaging Station Trail Approximately 675 ft Metal stairs and native surfaced trail

below dam NA NFSL/PG&E

Grizzly Forebay Recreation Area 12 parking spaces (single vehicle)

Paved parking area Single-lane (12 ft), native and compacted

gravel surface car-top boat launch 1 single-unit vault restroom

2 NFSL/PG&E

Grizzly Powerhouse Fishing Access

Approximately 10 undesignated parking spaces Graveled parking area NA NFSL/PG&E

Three Lakes

Three Lakes Trailhead Approximately 9 undesignated

parking spaces Graveled parking area 1 single-unit vault restroom 2 NFSL/USFSForest

Service Approximately 1 mi Native surfaced shoreline trail

Notes: AC=asphalt concreteft = feetmi = mileNA = Not applicable or none assignedNFSL = National Forest System LandPAOT = people-at-one-timePFD = personal floatation devicePG&E = Pacific Gas and Electric CompanyRV=recreational vehicle

a These are existing Project recreation facilities under the license expiring December 31, 2018 and will continue to be Project recreation facilities in the new license.

b Number of existing designated campsites, picnic sites, parking spaces, or trail length.c Responsibility under the license expiring December 31, 2018. Includes fee collection and facility

maintenance.d Currently not rated in USFSForest Service facility management system. Development scale based

on emails from E. Brenzovich, Public Service Public Services Staff Officer to C. Efird, Senior Recreation and Land Use Planner, Oakhurst CA, dated June 19, 2015 and April 12, 2016.






USFSForest Service

Development Scale


Responsibilityc

USFSForest Service = U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service





Table 2-2. Recreation Opportunity Spectrum (ROS) Classifications and the Associated Level of Site Modification

ROS Class ROS Class DefinitionaDevelopment

Scale Level of Site Modification

Primitive

An essentially unmodified natural environment of 5,000 acres or more that is at least three miles from all motorized use, and that provides significant opportunity for isolation from the sights and sounds of man and a feeling of vastness of scale. Visitors have an opportunity to be part of the natural environment, encounter a high degree of challenge and risk, and use a maximum of outdoor skills.

1

Minimum site modification. Rustic or rudimentary improvements designed for protection of the site rather than comfort of the users. Use of synthetic materials excluded. Minimum controls are subtle. No obvious regimentation. Spacing informal and extended to minimize contacts between users. Motorized access not provided or permitted.

Semi-Primitive (non-motorized)

A predominately unmodified natural environment of a size and location that provides a good to moderate opportunity for isolation from sights and sounds of man. The area is typically 2,500 acres or more and at least 0.5 mi from motorized use. It presents an opportunity for interaction with the natural environment, moderate challenge and risk, and use of a high degree of outdoor skills.

2

Little site modification. Rustic or rudimentary improvements designed primarily for protection of the site rather than the comfort of the users. Use of synthetic materials avoided. Minimum controls are subtle. Little obvious regimentation. Spacing informal and extended to minimize contacts between users. Motorized access provided or permitted (in the motorized class). Primary access over primitive roads. Interpretive services informal.

Semi-Primitive (Motorized)

A predominantly unmodified natural environment in a location that provides good to moderate isolation from sights and sounds of man, except for facilities/travel routes for primitive motorized recreation travel. Visitor can experience at least a moderate challenge and risk, and a high degree of skill testing. The area is generally 2,500 acres or larger and not closer than 0.5 mile from better-than-primitive roads.

Roaded Natural (subclassified as Roaded Natural and Roaded Modified)

A predominately natural environment where resource modification and utilization practices are evident. Evidence of the sights and sounds of man is moderate and in harmony with the natural environment. Opportunities exist for both social interaction and moderate isolation from sights and sounds of man.Roaded Natural—Those original Roaded Natural areas that are also coded as Foreground and Sensitivity Level I. These lands lie along the major travel ways and viewsheds. Nearly all developed

3 Site modification moderate. Facilities about equal for protection of natural site and comfort of users. Contemporary/rustic design of improvements is usually based on use of native materials. Inconspicuous vehicular traffic controls usually provided. Roads may be hard surfaced and trails formalized. Development density about three family units per acre.





ROS Class ROS Class DefinitionaDevelopment

Scale Level of Site Modification

sites are in this class. Paved roads and hardened sites are common. User interaction is moderate to high at developed sites.Roaded Modified—Those Roaded Natural areas that are also coded as Middleground, Background or Unseen, and Sensitivity Level II or III. This is the general resource management area of the Forest, typified by pick-up trucks and many miles of dirt and gravel roads. Other than trails and trailheads, virtually no improvements are present. Users experience low interaction.

Primary access may be over high standard roads. Interpretive services informal, but generally direct.

Rural

A substantially modified natural environment. Sights and sounds of man are evident. Renewable resource modification and utilization practices enhance specific recreation activities or provide the protection of vegetative soil cover.

4

Site heavily modified. Some facilities designed strictly for comfort and convenience of users. Luxury facilities not provided. Facility design may incorporate synthetic materials. Extensive use of artificial surfacing of roads and trails. Vehicular traffic control usually obvious. Primary access usually over paved roads. Development density three to five family units per acre. Plant materials usually native. Interpretive services often formal or structured.

UrbanA substantially urbanized environment. Sights and sounds of man predominate. Urban class areas on the PNF will be managed according to the Rural class.

5

High degree of site modification. Facilities mostly designed for comfort and convenience of users and usually include flush toilets; may include showers, bathhouses, laundry facilities, and electrical hookups. Synthetic materials commonly used. Formal walks or surfaced trails. Regimentation of users is obvious. Access usually by high-speed highways. Development density five or more family units per acre. Plant materials may be foreign to the environment. Formal interpretive services usually available. Designs formalized and architecture may be contemporary. Mowed lawns and clipped shrubs not unusual.

Source: USFSForest Service 2015





a Recreation Opportunity Spectrum definitions, PNF LRMP Appendix R (Forest Service 1988).






SECTION 3.0

Recreation MeasuresThis section describes the recreation measures that will be implemented by Licensees for the Project during the term of a new license. This section is divided into five sub-sections: (1) recreation facility replacement over the license term, (2) recreation facility upgrades and heavy maintenance, (3) recreation facility O&M, (4) flow information, and (5) sediment assessment at Sandy Point Boat Launch. Any non-emergency actions undertaken with respect to implementing the recreation measures will be coordinated by the Licensees to identify constraints that need to be addressed through design and implementation considerations to ensure consistency with resource management objectives contained in other Project resource management plans (e.g., aquatic, biologic, cultural resources).

The Recreation Management Plan addresses upgrades and maintenance of spurs, trails, and boat launches of existing Project recreation facilities as well as any new facilities of these types that may be developed during the license term. The Project Transportation Management Plan addresses upgrades and maintenance of access roads that connect main roads to Project recreation facilities (e.g., Sandy Point Day Use Area and Boat Launch) as well as internal circulation roads and parking areas within existing Project recreation facilities and any new facilities of these types that may be developed during the license term.

All recreation facilities designed, constructed, reconstructed, or replaced on PG&E lands are required to comply with most current guidelines for buildings and facilities covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act* (ADA) of 1990 (U.S. Access Board ADA Accessibility Guidelines) and Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations Code† (Physical Access Regulations).

All recreation facilities designed, constructed, reconstructed, purchased, or replaced on NFS lands are required to comply with the most stringent applicable accessibility standards and guidelines (Architectural Barriers Act Accessible Standards‡ [ABAAS], Forest Service Outdoor Recreation Area Guidelines§ [FSORAG], and Forest Service Trail Accessibility Guidelines [FSTAG]).

The FSORAG and FSTAG provide guidance for maximizing the accessibility of outdoor recreation areas and trails in the National Forest System, while protecting the unique characteristics of their natural setting. Both guidelines include conditions for an exception and general exceptions that may be applied to some specific technical requirements. Guidance and documentation in accordance to the practices described in the FSORAG and FSTAG must be * Standards that apply to places of public accommodation, commercial facilities, and State and local government facilities.† Building standards codes designed to comply with the requirements of ADA and State statutes.‡ Standards that apply to all facilities covered by the Architectural Barriers Act of 1968 except residential facilities under the

purview of the Department of Housing and Urban Development. § Guidelines to incorporate the Outdoor Developed Area Accessibility Guidelines developed by the Access Board and ensure

the application of equivalent or higher guidelines, in order to comply with other existing USFS policies, including universal design.





followed when applying conditions for exception. Conditions for exception are considered compliant with the most stringent application of the standards and guidelines, once approved by the Forest Service.

In addition, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 requires that no person be denied access to a program or activity just because the person has a disability. This act requires that any existing facility on NFS lands that has to be entered by employees or the public to participate in the program or activity inside that facility is required to be in compliance with the applicable accessibility standards and guidelines.

As a baseline for referencing improvements over the term of the new license, Licensees provide tables listing the Project recreation facilities and amenities (Attachment A), and overall site plan and individual recreation site drawings (Attachment B) showing the existing layout, location, and amenities for each of the Project recreation facilities. These tables and drawings will be updated through the new license term to reflect changes resulting from facility reconstruction and heavy maintenance, and filed with FERC.

3.1 Replacement of Project Recreation Facilities over the New License Term

The standard life of recreation facilities ranges from 20 to 30 years. Accordingly, Licensees will replace existing Project campgrounds and day use areas (i.e., picnic tables, fire rings, restrooms, animalwildlife-resistant food lockers, spurs, signs, gates, and parking areasboat launches) one time during the new license term. All replaced Project recreation facilities located on NFSL will remain public property and those located on PG&E-owned land will remain PG&E property. The replacement/reconstruction schedule, by year, for all existing Project recreation facilities is provided in Table 3.1-1.

3.1.1 General Site Design Considerations for Replacing Facilities

In general, recreation facilities will be replaced in-kind to provide the same level of development and visitor comfort while meeting current, applicable federal and state guidelines that exist during the design phase for these improvements, updating the facility, and incorporating measures to address any recreation-related impacts to environmental resources. The following additional concepts will be incorporated into Project recreation facilities when they are replaced:

Haskins Valley Campground—Assess suitability and, to the extent feasible, increase facility capacity for overnight camping.

Lower Bucks Lake Campground—Relocate the campground upslope of Forest Road 24N24. Retain some of the shoreline campsites only if sanitation and recreation-related resource impacts can be mitigated. Design to Development Scale 3 with a long term target of providing 25 family campsites.

Lower Bucks Lake Day Use Area—Design a formal parking area at the existing day use area that prevents vehicle use beyond the designated parking areas; provide tables and pedestal fire grills.





Improve/formalize the existing boat launch area to allow launching car top and small trailered boats. Expand day use area by converting the existing shoreline campsites to provide additional day use access with parking, tables, pedestal fire grills, restroom(s), shoreline access trail(s), tables and access for hand launching boats.

Sundew Campground—Assess suitability and, to the extent feasible, increase facility capacity with multi-family sites for overnight camping.





Table 3.1-1. Schedule of Replacement/Reconstruction for All Existing Project Recreation Facilities

Project Reservoir Recreation Facility

USFSForest Service

Development ScaleYear After License Issuance and

FERC Approval of the Plan

Bucks Lakea Haskins Valley Boat Launch NA [TBD during Plan consultation]

Haskins Valley Campground NA [TBD during Plan consultation]

Hutchins Group Campground 3 [TBD during Plan consultation]

Indian Rock Day Use Area 3 [TBD during Plan consultation]

Mill Creek Campground 3 [TBD during Plan consultation]

Sandy Point Boat Launch 3 [TBD during Plan consultation]

Sandy Point Day Use Area 3 [TBD during Plan consultation]

Sundew Campground 3 [TBD during Plan consultation]

West End Cove Day Use Area 3 [TBD during Plan consultation]

Lower Bucks Lake

Lower Bucks Lake Campground and Day Use

Areab

3 (campground)/2 (day use area) [TBD during Plan consultation]

Grizzly Forebay Grizzly Forebay Campground 2 [TBD during Plan consultation]

Grizzly Forebay Trail NA [TBD during Plan consultation]

Grizzly Forebay Gaging Station Trail NA [TBD during Plan consultation]

Grizzly Forebay Recreation Area (boat launch and

parking area)2 [TBD during Plan consultation]

Grizzly Powerhouse Fishing Access NA [TBD during Plan consultation]

Three Lakes Three Lakes Trailhead and Trail 2 [TBD during Plan consultation]

Notes: NA = Not applicable or none assignedTBD = to be determinedUSFSForest Service = U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service

a Does not include Bucks Lake Inlet Parking because this area consists of area available for parking along the road shoulder and no improvements are provided.

b Campground to be reconstructed in a new location; Dday use area to be upgraded concurrent with campground reconstruction





Before replacing a Project recreation facility on NFSL, Licensees will meet with USFSForest Service to review the facility design in light of changes in use and design standards since the facility was constructed. Modifications will be made to the existing facility design, to address the functionality of the facility and compliance with current design standards. Consideration will be given to items such as: width, length, and geometry of roads and spurs (in light of the current vehicle use of the facility); providing additional campsites when warranted by demand and when suitable land is available; and compliance with current accessibility standards and agency facility design standards, or other standards applicable at the time of design. Modification of the existing design may require expanding the facility footprint and adding small-scale features (e.g., gates) as part of the design but, at facilities located on NFSL, will remain within the scope of development appropriate for the development scale assigned to the facility.

Project campgrounds located on NFSL (USFSForest Service Development Scale 2 or higher) will be replaced in-kind, and unless excluded in this Plan or subsequently agreed to by Licensees and USFSForest Service, Licensees will provide the following facilities or features:

Roads and spurs with vehicle control barriers to prevent off road travel (except at walk-in campgrounds or campsites);

Tables;

Fire rings;

Wildlife resistant food storage lockers (at least 30 cubic foot);

Information boards;

Entrance station and sign;

Restrooms;

Site markers; and

Level tent pads.

Project day use areas located on NFSL (USFSForest Service Development Scale 2 or higher) will be replaced in-kind, and unless excluded in this Plan or subsequently agreed to by Licensees and USFSForest Service, Licensees will provide the following facilities or features:

Parking areas with vVehicle control barriers in parking areas to prevent off road travel;

Tables;

Information boards;

Entrance sign;

Gates; and

Restrooms.





3.1.2 Accessibility Design when Replacing Facilities

When reconstructing Project campgrounds and day use areas the resulting number of accessible campsites, picnic sites, and restrooms for public use will meet current applicable accessibility guidelines (e.g., Forest Service Outdoor Recreation and Trail Accessibility Guidelines on NFSL, and Americans with Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines on private lands).

3.1.3 Planning, Designing, and Reconstruction

Major recreation improvement work generally involves a five-year, three-step planning and implementation process. Steps in this process include (1) site planning (design narrative and site conceptual plan); (2) preparing a site development plan and construction plan; and (3) contracting and constructing each facility. In addition, for all sites located on NFSL, reconstruction plans and minor recreation improvements (such as constructed feature replacement) will need to meet current agency standards and therefore require Forest Service approval by the appropriate resource agency. These steps, described below, are typical and variances may occur because of the complexity or simplicity of the improvement work.

3.1.3.1 Site Planning

Licensees will plan and design projects in consultation with USFSForest Service at facilities located on NFSL. The planning phase consists of a preparing a design narrative and a site conceptual plan.

The design narrative describes the management objectives, design criteria, and constraints associated with the reconstruction of a recreation facility. The design narrative typically includes: (1) management objectives; (2) design criteria, including criteria on type and color of materials and accessibility; (3) existing physical conditions; (4) any rehabilitation and new construction; (5) anticipated management problems that design may minimize; (6) site capacity, durability, and protection; and (7) user safety.

The site conceptual plan presents a preliminary graphic illustration of proposed facilities and utilities in relationship to existing site features, facilities, and utilities. The site conceptual plan communicates proposed development ideas and/or alternatives. The site conceptual plan may include enlargements of the area that indicate placement and orientation of the proposed facilities and may include the use of aerial photography or topographic maps.

3.1.3.2 Site Development Plan and Construction Plan

During this step, Licensees will develop a site development plan that adapts the site conceptual plan to a detailed topographic survey that better represents actual, existing site conditions. This plan also identifies the site design details (i.e., picnic tables, fire rings, restrooms, signage, and road surface materials). On NFSL, the USFSForest Service will approve the site development plan. The goal of this step is to develop: (1) design drawings for the proposed recreation improvements, and (2) an implementation schedule.





This step also involves developing a construction plan which:

1. Describes the proposed improvements, construction methods, equipment, crews, access routes, and timing;

2. Describes measures to avoid impacts to water quality and sensitive resources (i.e., cultural and biological);

3. Identifies permitting and other regulatory requirements needed prior to construction;

4. Identifies appropriate site-specific erosion and sedimentation control measures; and

5. Identifies necessary measures to provide appropriate recreation traffic and parking during the construction.

For facilities located on NFSL, Licensees will submit the site development plan and construction plan to the USFSForest Service. Once approved, Licensees will finalize and submit these plans to FERC which will have a period of 60 days to approve the plans.

When new construction or expansion is specified in this Plan, the site capacities in this Plan are estimates only and will be refined based on topographic conditions, resource constraints, design standards and guidelines, relevant regulations, and, when located on NFSL, in consultation with the USFSForest Service.

3.1.3.3 Contracting and Construction

This step involves contracting, planning, and coordination in preparation for construction activities. For improvements on NFSL, Licensees will commence construction after consultation with the USFSForest Service to ensure construction activities are coordinated with the agency. Licensees will make a good faith effort to complete reconstruction of any one campground or picnic area within one year of commencing reconstruction activities, so that the facility is not closed for more than one calendar year.

Licensees intend to complete as much work as possible during periods when the facilities are normally closed (immediately before and after the open season); however, it is expected that some work will require closing the recreation facilities during the typical open season to complete all the proposed work. If construction will take longer than one year, will unduly reduce the capacity of the area during a facility’s open season, and is not overly disruptive, Licensees will consider reconstructing individual campground loops separately. Furthermore, Licensees may choose to complete scheduled work prior to the described implementation schedule (see Table 3.1-1), particularly when substantial cost savings are possible (i.e., volume discounts, high mobilization or transportation costs). In this circumstance, Licensees will include these ahead-of-schedule work tasks in the site development plans as with all other normally scheduled work.





3.2 Recreation Facility Upgrades and Heavy Maintenance

Licensees will upgrade facilities to meet visitor needs and achieve consistency with LRMP management guidance, USFSForest Service facility standards, and accessibility guidelines. Upgrading entails raising the facility to a higher standard by adding or replacing components of the facility. Examples of upgrading may include paving parking areas that currently have gravel surfaces, improving a shoreline trail at a day use area to meet accessibility standards, providing an RV dump station at a campground, or providing potable water at a recreation facility. Licensees will also accomplish heavy maintenance (i.e., recondition, renovation, or other improvement) to arrest deterioration and make improvements to appreciably prolong the life of the facility. Based on consultation with USFSForest Service, Licensees will either implement upgrades and accomplish heavy maintenance at the Project recreation facilities or provide funding to USFSForest Service to accomplish these tasks.

3.2.1 Upgrades at Project Recreation Facilities

Licensees will upgrade Project recreation facilities by implementing the items identified in Table 3.2-1. With the exception of incorporating existing trails into Mill Creek and Hutchins Group campgrounds, upgrades are not included for Project facilities that will be reconstructed in the near term because upgrades will be incorporated into their redesign.

Table 3.2-1 PLACEHOLDER

[Placeholder for Table 3.2-1--table/description/schedule of proposed upgrades to be developed during Plan development consultation, including incorporating Mill Creek Campground Tie Trail and Hutchins Campground Trail into the amenities provided at the respective campgrounds.]





Table 3.2-1 Recreation Facility Upgrades [reviewed at June 8, 2017 meeting]

Recreation site and upgrade descriptionYear after license issuance

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

Grizzly Forebay Campground

No upgrades planned; revisit after July 11 field visit

Grizzly Forebay Gaging Station Trail


Grizzly Forebay Fishing Access (Grizzly Forebay Recreation Areaa)

Accessibility improvements: ORAR,b restroom; revisit after July 11 field visit

Grizzly Powerhouse Access Road Turnaround (Grizzly Powerhouse Fishing Accessd)


Haskins Valley Boat Launch

Accessibility improvements: ORAR,b restroom,c water hydrant surface and fixture


Install wildlife resistant food lockers at each site and provide wildlife resistant trash receptacles

Accessibility improvements: restrooms,c water hydrant surfaces and fixtures

Modify one additional campsite to be accessible


Assess and perform trail maintenance on Hutchins Campground Trail and replace/install signs; include trail

as a campground amenity






Recreation site and upgrade descriptionYear after license issuance

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

No upgrades planned

Lower Bucks Lake Campground

To be reconstructed—no upgrades planned; revisit after long term schedule developed

Lower Bucks Lake Day Use Area

To be reconstructed—no upgrades planned; revisit after long term schedule developed


Assess and perform trail maintenance on Mill Creek Campground Tie Trail; include trail as a campground

amenity

Sandy Point Boat Launch and Day Use Area

Construct pedestrian trail (TBD: pedestrian or biking) between Sundew and Mill Creek Campgrounds and install signs; include trail as a day use area amenity

Sundew Campground

No upgrades planned

Three Lakes Trailhead

Accessibility improvements: ORARb,e


Construct accessible route to shoreline and accessible fishing accessf

Construct additional shoulder parking spaces

Notes: ORAR = Outdoor Recreation Access Routea Grizzly Forebay Recreation Area, corresponds to the wording on the facility entrance sign.





b Includes modifications to ORAR to achieve accessibility requirements for surface, clearance, slope, and connectivity.c Includes installing, replacing, or repositioning, as appropriate, risers, grab bars, dispensers, hooks, faucets, fixtures, signs, locks, and handles in

and on restroom buildings to meet accessibility requirements.d Grizzly Powerhouse Fishing Access, corresponds to the wording on the facility entrance sign. e This action will likely be completed before license issuance when restroom is repaired/replaced.f Site conditions (e.g., slope of submerged shoreline) to be investigated further to determine feasibility.





3.2.2 Heavy Maintenance at Project Recreation Facilities

Licensees are responsible for all heavy maintenance identified in relicensing studies (Table 3.2-2) and additional heavy maintenance needs that emerge during the new license term. With the exception of water, power, and septic systems, heavy maintenance items listed in Table 3.2-2 do not include any needs identified at Project recreation facilities that will be reconstructed in the near term because these needs will be addressed by reconstruction. Table 3.2-2 includes heavy maintenance needs as identified in relicensing study results and consultation with Forest Service regarding water, power, and septic systems. The number of individual amenities (e.g., tables, spurs, fire rings) to be replaced or repaired will be as needed at the time of performing the heavy maintenance. For example relicensing studies in 2015 determined one table needs replacement at Grizzly Forebay Campground but if more tables at this facility need replacement at the time of accomplishing the heavy maintenance item, they will be replaced as well. Depending on cost, some heavy maintenance items listed in the table may be addressed by replacing a site amenity (e.g., restroom needs a new roof but also needs modifications for accessibility so it would be replaced). Scope and schedule for addressing heavy maintenance needs identified during the new license term will be determined in consultation with USFSForest Service. Items typically within the scope of heavy maintenance at Project recreation facilities are described below.

Table 3.2-2 PLACEHOLDER

[Placeholder for Table 3.2-2 table of identified heavy maintenance needs to be developed during Plan development consultation.]





Table 3.2-2 Heavy Maintenance at Project Recreation Facilities [reviewed at June 8, 2017 meeting]

Recreation site and heavy maintenance descriptionYear after license issuance

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20


Replace all site designation signs

Replace tables


Clean waterbars, remove down logs, clear encroaching vegetation

Replace/install signs at beginning of trail and at the gaging station

Grizzly Forebay Fishing Access (Grizzly Forebay Recreation Areaa)

Replace entrance sign

Replace restroom roof

Replace 1 directional sign on trail

Grizzly Powerhouse Access Road Turnaround (Grizzly Powerhouse Fishing Accessb)

Replace sign at parking area


Resurface campsite spurs and ORARs

Replace site designation signs

Replace tables

Replace fire rings

Remove concrete stoves when unserviceable


Water system (well/storage tank also serves Sundew






1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

Campground)


Replace log vehicle barrierc


Water system


Repair 1 shower unit

Replace tables

Replace fire grills

Replace wood posts and vehicle barriers

Replace roof on vault restroom or remove buildingd

Repair edges, seal cracks in paved trails

Repair or replace courtesy docke

Water system

Shower/restroom septic system

LPG (existing?) and solar systems

Sundew Campground

Resurface campsite spurs and ORARs

Replace vehicle control barriers

Replace (or paint) site designation signs

Replace tables

Replace/reset fire rings






1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

Replace entrance sign posts

Replace stepsf

Water system (distribution only)


Replace restroome

Install trail symbol sticker on Carsonite® sign

Replace water crossings on trail


Replace log vehicle barrierc

Notes:a Grizzly Forebay Recreation Area, corresponds to the wording on the facility entrance sign.b Grizzly Powerhouse Fishing Access, corresponds to the wording on the facility entrance sign.c Log vehicle barriers will need heavy maintenance on a recurring frequency.d Vault restroom building is being used for storage. Remove if not needed.e May be replaced before license issuance.f Steps connect one of the parking spurs to its corresponding campsite.





[3.2.2.1] Roads, Parking Areas, Campground Spurs, Boat Ramps, and Trails

Heavy maintenance activities related to these features typically include:

Resurfacing parking areas and spurs;

Regrading gravel surfaced parking areas and supplementing gravel, as needed;

Replacing drainage features such as culverts;

Replacing vehicle control barriers, fences, posts, rails, and gates;

Replacing or repairing trail bridges and staircases; and

Replacing or major repair of boat ramps and retaining walls.

Asphalt Concrete Surfaces

Surfaces of some roads, parking areas, pathways, picnic pads, above-water portions of boat ramps, and campground spurs at Project recreation facilities are paved with asphalt concrete (AC). Licensees will determine appropriate maintenance and rehabilitation needs for these paved surfaces. Typically, either a slurry seal (liquid asphalt) or surface treatment (tar and chip) of the pavement will be necessary. Licensees will also restripe parking areas, repair curbs, and replace missing and damaged wheel stops and vehicle control barriers at the same time the paved surfaces are being refurbished.

Aggregate Surfaces

Some roads, parking areas, pathways, picnic pads, and campground spurs have aggregate surfaces. Heavy maintenance of these surfaces will involve regrading, replenishing aggregate, and, for roads and parking areascampground spurs, replacing missing and damaged vehicular barriers.

Native Surfaces

Some roads, parking areas, pathways, picnic pads, camping pads, and campground spurs have native surfaces. This treatment is commonly used in semi-primitive Recreation Opportunity Spectrum (ROS) settings. Heavy maintenance of native surfaces involves regrading. Missing and damaged vehicular control barriers will be replaced along roads, campground spurs, and parking areas.

Concrete Surfaces

Concrete surfaces are frequently used at restrooms, water faucets, trash bin pads, picnic site pads, and walkways. Concrete is also used for the portions of boat launch lanes that extend below the maximum water surface elevation. Heavy maintenance of concrete surfaces will be performed when the surface is damaged in a way that compromises the use of the feature, creates a safety hazard, or impedes accessibility.





3.2.2.1[3.2.2.2] Water Systems

During the new license term, Licensees anticipate that all water systems will need to be upgraded improved at least one time. Heavy maintenance activities related to water systems will include replacing well pumps and casings, potable water tanks or pressure systems, supply and distribution lines, valves and faucets. Water sources (i.e., wells) will be replaced based upon need (e.g., developed recreation facilities they serve have an insufficient water supply).

3.2.2.2[3.2.2.3] Campgrounds and Day Use Areas

Heavy maintenance at Project campgrounds and day use areas typically includes:

Replacing site amenities including picnic tables, benches, fire rings, grills, wildlife resistant food storage lockers, trash bins, and recycling containers;

Replacing damaged signage, information boards, and fee tubes;

Replacing or retrofitting restrooms;

Replacing septic systems, including leach fields;

Replacing potable water system components; and

Site leveling and removing obstacles, where feasible.

3.3 New Recreation Facility Development [Placeholder to list and describe any new facility development developed during Plan consultation.]

3.4 Recreation Facility Operation and Maintenance 3.4.1 Scope of Recreation Facility Operation and Maintenance

In general, O&M responsibilities include:

Cleaning features within the footprint of the Project recreation facility including but not limited to, campsites, picnic sites, fire rings, and parking areas (includes cleaning supplies, tools and other materials used to specifically operate and maintain the facility);

Cleaning restrooms and restocking supplies;

Picking up litter;

Reporting potential public safety hazards;

Correcting unsafe conditions;

Collecting fees;

Maintaining daily campground occupancy records;

Controlling pests;





Managing and maintaining signs;

Operating, maintaining, and repairing potable water and septic systems;

Serving as a public point of contact;

Performing tenant maintenance and repairs on Project recreation facilities;

Performing minor repair and maintenance of boat ramps and retaining walls and removal of debris or sediment from boat launch lanes;

Pumping vaults and septic systems;

Removing or painting over graffiti;

Maintaining pathways and trails including brushing, raking, sweeping, filling holes and repairing or replacing steps, treads, and railings;

Testing water supply;

Obtaining permits for potable water;

Annually winterizing activities including shutting off and draining water systems, locking structures and gates, and removing and storing or covering signs;

Annually opening activities including activating water systems, preparing campsites and picnic sites by removing debris and repairing damage that occurred over the winter;

Removing hazard trees;

Brushing and thinning vegetation within 100 feet (ft) of any site feature such as restrooms and parking areas to reduce fuels;

Minor repairing of gates and vehicle control barriers;

Brushing, leveling, and removing obstacles on trails;

Restriping parking areas and internal facility roads; and

Painting buildings (includes supplies).

3.4.2 Responsibility for Project Recreation Facility Operation and Maintenance

Licensees are responsible for operating and maintaining all Project recreation facilities located on PG&E-owned and public land within the FERC Project Boundary.* PG&E will use a concessionaire to operate and maintain these Project recreation facilities that are usually open from May through September and, as allowed by FERC regulations, charges user fees, to offset the costs associated with providing recreation facilities and services. Consistent with Forest Service Handbook 2309.13, chapter 31 (Forest Service 2013), fFees are not charged at the

* Project recreation facilities include any new facilities FERC approves and Licensees develop during the term of the new license as well as the existing Project recreation facilities which include: Bucks Lake Inlet Parking, Grizzly Forebay Campground, Grizzly Forebay Gaging Station Trail, Grizzly Forebay Recreation Area, Grizzly Powerhouse Fishing Access, Haskins Valley Boat Launch, Haskins Valley Campground, Hutchins Group Campground, Indian Rock Day Use Area, Lower Bucks Lake Day Use Area, Lower Bucks Lake Campground, Mill Creek Campground, Sandy Point Boat Launch and Day Use Area, Sundew Campground, Three Lakes Trailhead, and West End Cove Day Use Area.





following Project recreation facilities: West End Cove and Indian Rock day use areas, and Grizzly Forebay Recreation Area, Campground, trails and Powerhouse Fishing Access. Because some of the Project recreation facilities are located on NFSL, Licensees will determine fees charged at these Project recreation facilities in consultation with PNF. Licensees will accept certain interagency passes* and apply discounts to user fees consistent with how PNF accepts these passes at the recreation facilities it manages using concessionaires.

Table 3.4-1 summarizes the land ownership of and entity responsible for operating and maintaining the Project recreation facilities under the term of a new license. Licensees will be responsible for operating and maintaining any new Project facilities constructed under the term of the new license.

Table 3.4-1. Land Ownership and Operation and Maintenance Responsibilities at Project Recreation Facilities Under the Term of a New License

Project Recreation Facility

Land ownership/Operation and Maintenance

Responsibilitya Under the Term of a New License

Bucks Lake Inlet Parking PG&E/PG&Eb

Haskins Valley Boat Launch PG&E/PG&Eb

Haskins Valley Campground PG&E/PG&Eb

Hutchins Group Campground NFSL/Licensees

Indian Rock Day Use Area NFSL/Licensees

Mill Creek Campground NFSL/Licensees

Sandy Point Boat Launch NFSL/Licensees

Sandy Point Day Use Area NFSL/Licensees

Sundew Campground NFSL/Licensees

West End Cove Day Use Area NFSL/Licensees

Lower Bucks Lake Campground and Day Use Area NFSL/Licensees

Grizzly Forebay Campground NFSL/Licensees

Grizzly Forebay Trail NFSL/Licensees

Grizzly Forebay Gaging Station Trail NFSL/Licensees

Grizzly Forebay Recreation Area (boat launch and parking area) NFSL/Licensees

Grizzly Powerhouse Fishing Access NFSL/Licensees

Three Lakes Trailhead and Trail NFSL/Licensees

* Several annual interagency passes may entitle holders to fee waivers and discounts depending on the level of amenities provided at a recreation facility. Discounts and waivers for fees to use facilities where expanded amenities are provided ( i.e., campgrounds, highly developed boat launches and swimming areas, hookups, dump stations) do not apply to holders of the Interagency Annual Pass. Other passes that may be accepted at PNF recreation facilities include Interagency Senior and Interagency Access passes.





Notes: PG&E = Pacific Gas and Electric CompanyNFSL = National Forest System LandUSFSForest Service = U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service

a Includes fee collection (where applicable) and facility maintenance of Project recreation facilities.b Listed as PG&E because the land and facility are PG&E-owned.

3.4.2.1 Flow Information

One Project reach, Grizzly Creek downstream of Grizzly Forebay Dam to the confluence with NFFR, is navigable by some expert boaters and may provide angling opportunities. To enhance these opportunities Licensees will provide flow data to the public from U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) gage NF22, an existing flow monitoring gage just downstream of Grizzly Forebay Dam. Licensees would will make real-timehourly flow data available to USGS or another appropriate repository for flow data. [Additional details to be developed during Plan consultation.]the California Data Exchange Center (CDEC) (or at such time that CDEC is no longer viable, other similar entity that provides publicly available flow information as agreed upon by Forest Service, California Department of Fish and Wildlife, State Water Resources Control Board, and Licensees). Licensees will provide, at a minimum, real-time flow information on an hourly basis.

3.5 Assess Sediment Accumulation at Sandy Point Boat Launch

Licensees will annually assess sediment accumulation on Sandy Point Boat Launch when Bucks Lake is at its lowest expected elevation. Licensees will remove sediment from the ramp surface, above the existing water level if the depth and location of sediment appears to inhibit launching boats with two-wheel drive vehicles.





SECTION 4.0

Treatments for Resource Impacts Related to Project Recreation Use4.1 Resource Impacts Related to Project Recreation Use Licensees are responsible for mitigating Project recreation use impacts on natural and cultural resources along Project reservoir shorelines and near Project recreation facilities and Project infrastructure. Examples may include unauthorized activities (e.g., vehicle use off of designated routes, overnight use outside of developed facilities that is within 100 ft of watercourses, meadows and trails), as well as over using sensitive areas such as riparian areas along reservoir shorelines, introducing or spreading non-native, invasive plant and aquatic species and wildland prevention. Depending on the nature of the effects, it may be appropriate to employ engineering and restoration measures, which may be accompanied by visitor education signage. The nature of these types of impacts may require ongoing effectiveness monitoring (Section 5, Recreation Monitoring Program). Measures contained in other resource management plans, including new plans that may be developed or existing plans that may be revised during the license term, will be reviewed and incorporated into any actions Licensees take to address Project-related recreation use effects. At a minimum, these plans include:

Fire Prevention and Response Plan on Federal Land

Historic Properties Management Plan

Integrated Vegetation Management Plan

Transportation Management Plan

4.1.1 Engineering Measures

Engineering solutions are used as means of hardening a site to accommodate recreation use or discourage inappropriate use at locations where visitors are disregarding rules and regulations. Examples of engineering solutions include installing or reinforcing physical closures on routes that are not authorized for vehicle use, installing information signs, and constructing parking areas. The intent of implementing these measures is to accommodate the recreational use but provide for resource protection.

4.1.2 Restoration Measures

Restoration measures are proposed at sites where some type of use or user-created amenity exists (e.g., fire ring, trail, or trash receptacle) that is inconsistent with a USFSForest Service rule or regulation, inconsistent with Project operations, or is causing resource damage. Restoration measures may include routine actions such as removing user-created amenities such as fire rings, or shelves with the intent of discouraging a particular type or location of use. Depending on the





site-specific treatment, signage may be included to further discourage visitor behavior that causes resource damage.

4.1.3 Public Education

Public education in the form of signs and printed materials are proposed where their use would, as appropriate, discourage or promote types of visitor use and behavior. Relevant educational messages may include, but are not limited to: (1) Project history; (2) introduction and spread of non-native, invasive plants; (3) introduction and spread of quagga mussels and other non-native aquatic species; (4) self-inspections of boats and fishing equipment; (5) importance of rare natural vegetation communities; (6) importance of cultural resources; and (7) wildland fire prevention; and (8) wilderness use.

[Placeholder for adding more specifics about locations]

4.2 Treatments of Project Recreation Use Impacts Licensees consulted with USFSForest Service to determine what, if any, actions Licensees will implement at the sites identified during relicensing studies and developed an implementation schedule (Table 4.2-1).

Licensees will consult with USFSForest Service to determine the treatment and schedule for addressing any additional Project recreation use impacts identified over the new license term.





Table 4.2-1. Areas of Concern Identified in Licensees’ Recreation Use Impact Assessment [reviewed at June 8, 2017 meeting]

Location Identified Concern Proposed Treatment

Year After License Issuance and FERC Approval of the Plan

Bucks Boat-in Campground

Campsites located too close to water’s edge

Litter

Bucks Lake (various locations)

Vehicle use below high water line

Licensees have conferred with USFS on steps to identify and post vehicle access point onto shoreline

Posted known unsanctioned access point with “No Vehicles” signage.

Ongoin monitoring of the situation.

If signage and public outreach does not solve problem, Licensees propose to physically blocks access points (i.e. boulders).

Grizzly Forebay

Multiple user-created trails and horseshoe pit

Fire ring near boat launch

Install educational signage to stay on established trails

Block and restore unauthorized trails and remove horshoe pit

Continued monitoring for unauthorized fire rings-removal when identified


Multiple user created trails, some with erosion and amenities (e.g., rock work)

Litter

Install educational signage to stay on established trails; pack-in pack-out, and resource protection..

Block and restore unauthorized trails

Continued monitoring.

Lower Bucks Lake

Multiple user-created trails to north shoreline

Dispersed overnight site on south shoreline

New relocated campground will address the north shore issues.

Install educational signage regarding proper dispersed camping practices.


Sandy Point Day Use Area User-created tent pad Remove and restore

unauthorized pad





Sundew Campground User-created tent pad Remove and restore

unauthorized pad

Three Lakes

Unauthorized road Multiple dispersed

overnight sites and shoreline access trails

Install educational signage to stay on established trails.

Block and restore unauthorized roads.

Formalize and maintain shoreline access trails.

Install educational signage regarding proper dispersed camping practices.


Multiple user created trails, some with erosion and amenities (e.g., rock work)

Litter

Install educational signage to stay on established trails; pack-in pack-out, and resource protection.

Block and restore unauthorized trails


Notes: USFS = U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest ServiceSource: Final License Application, Volume III, TM-29 Recreation Use Impact Assessment (RR-S1)





SECTION 5.0

Recreation Monitoring ProgramLicensees’ monitoring program is designed to report monitoring results every six years, on the same schedule as the requirement to file FERC Form 80 (Recreation Report) for the Project. Monitoring components will include Project recreation use levels, facility occupancies, Bucks Lake boating density, types of observed recreation use as well as assessing Project recreation use impacts outside of developed Project recreation facilities. Visitor surveys will be conducted concurrent with every other FERC Form 80 cycle (i.e., every 12 years) to collect and report information about visitor needs and preferences. It is appropriate to conduct visitor surveys based on a longer time frame than every six years to distinguish between trends and anomalies in recreation use. Monitoring will be conducted at all Project recreation facilities (Table 2-1), commercial boat launches, and at areas within 100 ft of Project reservoirs and recreation facilities that receive recurrent dispersed recreation use.

Licensees will present the monitoring results in the Report on Recreation Resources that will be provided to USFSForest Service for review and comment at least 60 days before the annual consultation meeting.

5.1 Monitoring Methods Table 5.1-1 summarizes methods that will be used to collect information about the recreation monitoring indicators and standards.

Table 5.1-1. Summary of Monitoring Frequency and Information

Monitoring Indicator Collection

MethodMonitoringFrequency Type of Site

Monitoring Indicatorsand Other Information to

be Collected

Recreation occupancy observation surveys or records

Once every 6 years concurrent with collecting data to prepare FERC Form 80

Family and group campgrounds with hosts

Indicators: Non-holiday weekend occupancy between June 15 and August 15.Other: Weekday, weekend, and holiday occupancy information for the peak seasona will also be reported.

Recreation occupancy observation survey


Family and group campgrounds without a host, picnic areas, boat launches, and parking areas

Indicators: Non-holiday Saturday occupancy between June 15 and August 15.Other: Weekday, weekend, and holiday occupancy information for the peak season will also be reported.


Bucks Creek Project Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 619©20167, Pacific Gas and Electric Company



Monitoring Indicator Collection

MethodMonitoringFrequency Type of Site

Monitoring Indicatorsand Other Information to

be Collected

Recreation user survey

Once every 12 years concurrent with collecting data to prepare every other FERC Form 80.

Family and group campgrounds, and day use areas (picnic sites and boat launches)

Indicators: Conflicts with other groups, sense of crowding, acceptability ratings of recreation facilities and management.Other: Primary and overall activities.

Resource impact surveys


Within 100 ft of the: boundary of developed

Project recreation facilities; and

the maximum water surface elevation of Project reservoirs

Indicators: Observable impacts (e.g., litter, bare or eroding soil, improper sanitation, vegetation damage, user-created roads, inappropriate types or locations of use).

Water surface observations


Bucks Lake Indicators: Non-holiday Saturday boats-at-one-time on Bucks Lake between June 15 and August 15.

Notes: FERC = Federal Energy Regulatory Commissionft = feet

a Peak season is defined as Saturday of Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day.

5.1.1 Recreation Facility Occupancy RecordsOnce every six years, based on data collected for FERC Form 80, Licensees will calculate weekend campground and day use area occupancy during the entire peak recreation season (Memorial Day through Labor Day weekends). For monitoring and trigger purposes, Licensees will also calculate occupancy based on a subset of these data from June 15 to August 15.

Occupancy will be calculated using records collected by hosts or on-site managers, when available and providing the records reflect actual site occupancy rather than total of fees collected or the number of reserved sites irrespective of whether they were occupied.

5.1.2 Recreation Occupancy Observation Survey

At recreation sites where suitable occupancy data cannot be reliably collected and reported, Licensees will conduct observations every six years, to coincide with the FERC Form 80 monitoring cycle, to record the number of campsites (family and group campgrounds) and parking spaces (day use and parking areas) occupied “at-one-time.” Licensees will conduct occupancy observations surveys during the most common use periods appropriate for the type of recreation site (e.g., campgrounds in the evenings) during holiday* and non-holiday weekends during the peak season (Memorial Day through Labor Day weekends). Licensees will conduct

* FERC Form 80 requires reporting holiday occupancy during the peak season.





observation surveys on three non-holiday Saturdays per month during June, July, and August of the peak season (total of nine non-holiday Saturdays). In addition, Licensees will conduct the observation survey two of the three holiday weekend days (Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day weekends) for FERC Form 80 reporting purposes. Table 5.1-2 provides details about facilities at which Licensees will conduct the observation surveys.

5.1.3 Recreation User Survey

Licensees will conduct recreation user surveys to collect information relating to social indicators described in Section 5.3, Social Indicators and Standards and visitors’ primary and overall activity participation. This short, focused survey will be conducted every 12 years and coincide with data collection for FERC Form 80 reporting. Licensees will complete the first survey to coincide with data collection for the first FERC Form 80 required under the new license. Recreation user surveys will be performed at recreation facilities listed in Table 5.1-2.

Licensees will develop the recreation survey instrument in collaboration with the USFSForest Service. Licensees will provide the USFSForest Service a draft monitoring survey instrument and methodology for review and comment at least 90 days prior to implementation. The target number of survey interviews for each Project reservoir will be based on relicensing study results, the most recent FERC Form 80 use report, and, other relevant, available recreation use information. The target number of surveys for each reservoir will be apportioned to individual developed facilities and dispersed use sites based on the approximate relative amount of use.

5.1.4 Resource Impact Surveys

Licensees will assess recreation-related resource impacts every six years, to coincide with data collection for FERC Form 80 reporting. In general, the area investigated will be within 100 ft of the boundary of developed Project recreation facilities and maximum water surface elevation of Project reservoirs (Table 5.1-2). The assessment will be primarily qualitative for the purpose of recording observable impacts, such as litter; graffiti; damaged vegetation; bare soil, erosion; improper sanitation; user-created roads, trails, and campsites and their proximity to reservoir, wetlands, creeks, or other sensitive areas; and displacement of vehicle access barriers. This monitoring effort includes assessing effectiveness of previous treatments of areas with recreation-related resource impacts.

5.1.5 Water Surface Observations

Licensees will collect water surface use data at Bucks Lake every six years, to coincide with data collection for FERC Form 80 reporting (Table 5.1-2). Data will be collected from a boat on one Saturday day per month from June 15 through August 15 between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. The numbers and types of active watercraft, by water surface area (Figure 5.1-1), will be recorded.





Table 5.1-2. Type of Monitoring by Project Reservoir and Site

Project Reservoir/Facility Namea

Recreation Facility or Area

Occupancy Records

Occupancy Observation

Survey

Recreation User

Survey

Resource Impact Survey

Water Surface

Observation

Bucks Lake

Bucks Lake Water Surface and Shoreline

Reservoir X X X


Undesignated parking spaces

X X X


Boat launch parking area X X X


Family campground X X X


Group campground X X X

Indian Rock Day Use Area Day use area X X X



Sandy Point Boat Launch

Boat launch parking area X X X

Sandy Point Day Use Area Day use area X X X

Sundew Campground


West End Cove Day Use Area Day use area X X X

Lower Bucks Lake




Day use area X X X





Project Reservoir/Facility Namea

Recreation Facility or Area

Occupancy Records

Occupancy Observation

Survey

Recreation User

Survey

Resource Impact Survey

Water Surface

Observation

Grizzly Forebay


Family campground (walk-in)

X X X

Grizzly Forebay Recreation Area

Boat launch and parking area

X X X


Trail X X X



X X X

Three Lakes



X X X

Three Lakes Trail Trail X X Xa Any new Project recreation facilities will be included in the monitoring scheme after their construction.





Figure 5.1-1. Bucks Lake Water Surface Areas for Monitoring





5.2 Facility Occupancy Indicators and Standards Additional monitoring efforts may be triggered by the monitoring results contained in the Report on Recreation Resources that is prepared every six years. As part of this Plan, Licensees propose a facility occupancy and social monitoring approach that uses monitoring indicators and standards.* If monitoring shows that conditions exceed acceptable levels as defined by standards, appropriate management actions will be considered to reduce the conditions to an acceptable level. The Project’s recreation facility occupancy and social indicators and standards are discussed in this section.

Facility occupancy indicators are occupancy rates at developed Project recreation facilities, and are based on groupings of developed family campgrounds, group campgrounds, picnic areas, boat launches, and parking areas. The facility occupancy rate is expressed as a percentage calculated by dividing the number of occupied sites by the number of designated sites available at the facility when it is open. Table 5.2-1 contains the facility occupancy standards by type of recreation facility and Table 5.2-2 presents the similar types of Project recreation facilities by area that will be grouped by reservoir or reservoirs, as indicated, to report facility occupancy.

5.3 Social Indicators and Standards Social indicators and standards measure interaction between recreation users and users’ satisfaction with Project recreation facilities and management over the term of the new license. These indicators will be measured by conducting a short, focused recreation user survey once every 12 years throughout the new license period. Social indicators to be monitored include perceived crowding of land and reservoir water surface areas and conflict between user groups. In addition, the survey will collect information about users’ recreation activities, including their primary recreation activity.

5.3.1 Perceived Crowding

Researchers have developed a relatively simple measure of perceived crowding (Heberlein and Vaske 1977). The question asks people to indicate how crowded the area was at the time of their visit. Responses are given on the nine-point scale below:

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9Not at allCrowded

SlightlyCrowded

ModeratelyCrowded

ExtremelyCrowded

* Indicators are quantifiable measures of important recreation resource conditions. Standards define the level of the indicators considered an acceptable condition for the resource.





Table 5.2-1. Facility Occupancy Indicators, Monitoring Methods, Standards, and Potential Management Actions for Project Recreation Facilities

Hosted/Reservation CampgroundsMonitoring Indicator and Conditions Indi c ato r : Non-holiday weekend day (Friday and Saturday)

occupancySeas o n : June 15-August 15a

Cond i ti o n s : The non-holiday weekend (Friday [night]/Saturday [night])

combined season annual average occupancy for similar campground types within the geographic groupings shown in Table 5.2-2. Campground host sites are exempt from this annual average combined occupancy calculation.

To minimize the influence of anomalous days (i.e., bad weather, unexpected events) the single highest and lowest occupancy during the monitoring period will not be used in the average occupancy calculation. For a typical year, this will result in 14 days of monitoring data (Friday/Saturday nights) for the annual combined occupancy calculation.

Occupancy will only be calculated for days when the campground is open during the monitoring period. In a particular year, if there are less than 10 days of data available to calculate the annual occupancy, then this year will not be considered for trigger monitoring purposes.

Phase 1 Data Collection Method 1 Data Co l le c t ion M e th o d s : Family campgrounds: daily occupancy collected by

host/caretakerb, or other agreed upon methods; and Group campgrounds: visibly occupied sites. Data collected in fifth year of the 6-year monitoring cycle.

Trigger 1 90% average annual occupancy of campsites within geographic grouping.

Action if Trigger 1 is Not Met Continue monitoring using data collection Method 1.

Action if Trigger 1 is Met Perform Suitability-Feasibilityc analysis no later than the calendar year after Trigger 1 is met.

Start monitoring using data collection Method 2. Implement recreation use management processd starting in

calendar year after trigger is met. Plan for and address overflow use.e

Phase 2 Data Collection Method 2 Data Co l le c t ion M e th o d s : Family campgrounds: daily occupancy collected by

host/caretakerb, or other agreed upon methods; and Group campgrounds: visibly occupied sites. Data collection on an annual basis.

Trigger 2 90% average annual occupancy of indicator reached t w o additional t i m e s during the 6-year period. Do not have to wait for all 6 years if Trigger 2 is met sooner.

Action if Trigger 2 is Not Met Revert back to monitoring once every 6 years (data collection Method 1).





Action if Trigger 2 is Met Start site development process for new campground (NEPA analysis and conceptual plan, final plan development and construction to follow NEPA) or, if the decision is to not develop a new facility, continue implementation of recreation use management processesd as agreed upon.

Self-Pay/No Host Campgrounds, Day Use FacilitiesMonitoring Indicator and Conditions Indi c ato r : Non-holiday Saturday occupancy

Seas o n : June 15-August 15a

Cond i ti o n s : The non-holiday weekend (Saturday) combined annual average

occupancy for similar campground/day use types within the geographic groupings shown in Table 5.2-2.

To minimize the influence of anomalous days (i.e., bad weather, unexpected events) the single highest and lowest occupancy during the monitoring period will not be included in the average occupancy calculation. The occupancy will only be calculated for days when the campground/day use area is open during monitoring period. For a typical year, this will result in 6 Saturdays of monitoring data for the annual combined occupancy calculation.

If there are less than 6 days of data available to calculate the annual combined occupancy for a recreation grouping, then data for the low and high use days will be included in calculating the average occupancy. In a particular year, if this still results in less than 6 days, then this year will not be considered for trigger monitoring purposes.

Phase 1 Data Collection Method 1 Data Co l le c t ion M e th o d s : On-site observations of occupied campsites at campgrounds and

parking spaces at day use areas once every 6 years. Record non-holiday weekend facility occupancy rates on all

Saturdays from June 15 to August 15. Counts will be conducted between noon and 4 p.m.

Data collected in the fifth year of the 6-year monitoring cycle.

Trigger 1 90% average annual occupancy or above of indicator reached during the monitoring year.

Action if Trigger 1 is Not Met Continue monitoring using data collection Method 1.Action if Trigger 1 is Met Perform Suitability-Feasibilityc analysis no later than the calendar

year after Trigger 1 is met. Start monitoring using data collection Method 2. Implement recreation use management processd starting in

calendar year after trigger is met. Plan for and address overflow use.e





Phase 2 Data Collection Method 2 On-site observations of occupied campsites at campgrounds and parking spaces at day use areas annually for next 3 years: Record non-holiday weekend facility occupancy rates on all Saturdays from June 15 to August 15. Counts will be conducted between noon and 4 p.m.

Trigger 2 Average seasonal occupancy during the 3 additional years of monitoring for combined facilities in the same grouping (Table 5.2-2) meets or exceeds: 90% Average Seasonal Occupancy each year or 95% Average Seasonal Occupancy achieved at least one year out

of 3 years monitoring.

Action if Trigger 2 is Not Met Revert back to monitoring once every 6 years (data collection Method 1).

Action if Trigger 2 is Met Start site development process for new campground (NEPA analysis and conceptual plan, final plan development and construction to follow NEPA) or, if the decision is to not develop a new facility, or continue implementation of recreation use management processesd as agreed upon.

Notes: NEPA = National Environmental Policy Acta Peak season is defined as Memorial Day through Labor Day weekends however the monitoring period during the peak season

with respect to triggers is from June 15 to August 15.b Based on visibly occupied sites and not based on reservation or receipt records. USFSForest Service may monitor

host/caretaker occupancy data or conduct data collection independently to verify accuracy.c Feasibility/Suitabi l ity:

Before site development planning, the monitoring program provides for a feasibility and suitability analysis to determine if site development is possible at a Project reservoir or Project reservoirs within a facility monitoring grouping (Table 5.2-2). A proposed development will be considered suitable, if the development is:1) practical and reasonable based on the site conditions;2) appropriate for the designated ROS classification, standards and policy; and3) appropriate for the level of use desired based on direction by applicable land and resource management plans, including

revisions or amendments to land management plans.Further, Licensees on PG&E-owned land, and the USFSForest Service on NFSL, will make the final determination as to whether a proposed development is considered suitable and feasible.

d E xa m ples of Rec r eation Use Ma nage m e nt P r ocesse s : Educate visitors about other day use areas and campgrounds in the region. Implement more on-site management (provide camp host, bring in amenities). Implement a fee for use (if applicable).

e Overflow:For all infrastructure, especially campgrounds, the Licensee will address the effects of overflow impacts, especially in regard to impacts to natural resources. The Licensees must control vehicle use and parking (signing, barriers) and provide for sanitation (CXT or portable restrooms). Additional amenities (picnic tables, fire rings, tent pads) will not typically be provided at areas receiving overflow use unless agreed to by the Licensees and the resource agency(s). To be discussed at annual O&M meeting between Licensees and USFSForest Service.





Table 5.2-2. Project Recreation Facility Groupings

Facility Type Group Project Reservoir Recreation Facility Capacitya

Campground

Bucks Lake

Haskins Valley Campground 65 campsites

Mill Creek Campground 10 campsites

Sundew Campground 22 campsites

Lower Bucks Lake Lower Bucks Lake Campground 7 campsites

Grizzly Forebay Grizzly Campground 7 campsites

Group Campground Bucks Lake Hutchins Group Campground 3 group campsites, each with

25 PAOT

Day Use Areas

Bucks Lake

Haskins Valley Boat Launch 5 parking spaces

Indian Rock Day Use Area 8 parking spaces


52 parking spaces (30 vehicle with trailer and 22 single

vehicle)

West End Cove Day Use Area 6 parking spaces

Lower Bucks Lake Lower Bucks Lake Day Use Area

Undesignated spaces (~200 ft x 200 ft)

Grizzly Forebay Grizzly Forebay Recreation Area 12 parking spaces

Note: PAOT = people-at-one-timea Existing site capacities are listed. Site capacities existing at the time of data collection will be used for occupancy calculation.

This measure is simple and easy to apply. Two of the nine points on the crowding scale label the situation as uncrowded, while the remaining seven points label it as crowded (to some degree). The scale can be analyzed from various perspectives, but has traditionally been collapsed into two variables (not crowded versus any degree of crowding; the method used here). This provides a conceptually meaningful break point between those who labeled the situation as not at all crowded (scale points 1 and 2, a positive evaluation), and those who labeled the situation as slightly, moderately, or extremely crowded (scale points 3 through 9, a negative evaluation).

Five distinct categories of crowding have been identified when the scale was collapsed into the two categories (i.e., uncrowded versus crowded) (Shelby et al. 1989).

Under 35 percent—No crowding; relatively unique low-density experiences.

36 to 50 percent—Low normal; unlikely to be a problem.

51 to 65 percent—High normal; experiences approaching capacity.

66 to 80 percent—Over capacity; management probably needed.

Over 80 percent—Greatly over capacity; manage for high density or a sacrifice area.





Future monitoring will measure crowding on weekdays and weekends of land-based visitors and reservoir boaters.

5.3.2 Conflicts or Problems with Other Recreation Users

Conflicts or problems with other recreation users refer to the proportion of users that experienced incidents which bothered them during their trips and reported these events on a user survey. A typical survey question to assess conflict is as follows: “Did you or your group experience any problems with other recreation users during your current visit to the Study Area? If you had problems, please identify the other group and describe the problem and location.” A summary of the social indicators and standards is provided in Table 5.3-1. The perceived crowding triggers apply at the recreation facility level.

Table 5.3-1. Land- and Water-Based Social Monitoring Indicators and Standards

Indicator Monitoring MethodStandards (Trigger) Potential Management Actionsa

Perceived Crowding

User Survey: Percent of land-based visitors (by recreation facility) or Bucks Lake boaters reporting some degree of crowding of 3 or higher on 9-point scale on user surveys over the monitoring period.

>65% of visitors

Land-Based Actions: Provide additional visitor

management and/or enforcement. Provide adequate buffers between

uses. Expand and/or develop new

facilities/use areas. Provide increased visitor education. Reservoir-Based Actions: Provide additional visitor

management and/or enforcement to encourage use to be within acceptable capacity standards.

Provide specific water surface zones. Establish specific (i.e., circular)

travel patterns for boats. Increase boat ramp efficiency (add

ramp lanes, boarding docks, parking spaces, etc.).

Provide increased boater education.

Conflicts or Problems with Other Groups

User Survey: Percent of weekday and non-holiday weekend visitors reporting a conflict with other users over the monitoring period.

>35% of visitors

a Licensees would support actions of agencies with authority to implement these actions.





5.4 Monitoring Reporting Licensees will prepare a recreation monitoring report every six years, coinciding with the schedule for preparing the FERC-required Form 80. The recreation monitoring report will summarize the data for the current monitoring period and include management recommendations, if monitoring indicators exceed identified standards (Table 5.4-1). Facility occupancy information will be presented on a monthly basis showing weekend occupancies and, when available, weekday occupancies. In addition, resource impact information and non-holiday weekend occupancy between June 15 and August 15 (for trigger monitoring purposes) will be presented. Every 12 years the monitoring report will also contain results from the Recreation User Survey (Section 5.1.3). Monitoring reports will explain any modifications to the monitoring methods and may include suggested improvements to the monitoring methods.

Licensees will provide the 6- and 12-year monitoring reports to the USFSForest Service for a 30-day review and comment period. In addition, Licensees will meet with the USFSForest Service and other interested parties during the 30-day review period to discuss potential reasonable resource management measures based on the report. Licensees will file monitoring reports, including evidence of consultation, with FERC concurrent with corresponding Form 80 filing. Licensees will implement additional or modified measures that are approved by FERC.

Table 5.4-1. Summary of Monitoring Reporting Frequency and Information

Reporting Frequency Summary of Information to be Contained in Monitoring Reports

Every 6 Years (concurrent with Form 80 reporting)

Existing Project facilities and their capacities. Project recreation facility occupancy and observation survey data summarized by

month and day type and occupancy rates at each facility. Summarized monitoring results in relation to established triggers and trends

documented in previous reports (or initially from relicensing studies). Summarized water surface observations at Bucks Lake. Summary of resource impacts (e.g., pollution, litter, user created amenities, improper

sanitation). New or modified measures proposed to address concerns and needs identified in report

(e.g., additional facilities, closure orders).

Every 12 Years (concurrent with Form 80 reporting)

All the items in the 6-Year Recreation Survey and Monitoring Report. Summarized visitor survey (including social indicators of perceived crowding and

conflict between user groups and activity type) responses. Kinds and sizes of recreational vehicles (e.g., trailer, RV). Summarized current regional and statewide trends in recreation based on available

surveys and reports.





SECTION 6.0

Annual Recreation Coordination Meeting and Plan RevisionIn addition to monitoring and providing a Report on Recreation Resources, including FERC Form 80, every 6 years (see Section 5.0, Recreation Monitoring Program), Licensees’ approach to managing Project recreation over the new license term will include annually consulting with USFSForest Service and evaluating the need to revise the Recreation Management Plan every 12 years.

6.1 Annual Recreation Coordination Meeting Licensees will schedule an annual coordination meeting with the USFSForest Service and other interested parties (e.g., Bucks Lake Homeowners Association) to discuss the measures needed to ensure public safety, manage Project recreation facilities and use, and meet Project visitor needs, consistent with applicable laws, regulations, and policies. Licensees and USFSForest Service will mutually agree to the date of the meeting, but in general, the meeting will be held within the first 90 days of each calendar year. Licensees will provide an agenda and a proposed meeting date to other interested parties in advance of the meeting. The USFSForest Service will provide Licensees with any available recreational use data from the previous year for the facilities listed in this Plan.

The following topics will be discussed during the annual coordination meeting, at a minimum:

Annual O&M plans for Project recreation facilities;

Status of recreation projects from the previous year, including rehabilitation of existing recreation facilities, and any other recreation measures or programs that were implemented;

Recreation facilities scheduled for construction or reconstruction and any other Plan measures or programs to be implemented, including:

– Logistical and coordination planning;

– Implementation schedule, including potential adjustments*;

– Coordination needs:

– Permitting requirements;

– Key resources that will need to be protected from potential impacts associated with the implementation of the scheduled recreation projects;

* The USFS will be asked to approve any revisions to the Project’s Recreation Management Plan schedule, and the revised schedule will be submitted to FERC for approval.





Scope and schedule for addressing heavy maintenance needs at Project recreation facilities identified during the new license term.

Monitoring plans and schedule;

Available recreation use data; and

Review of the Report on Recreation Resources (every six years).

Within 60 days after consultation, Licensees will file a summary of the meeting with FERC, which will include the agenda, discussion points, USFSForest Service comments, and any agreements reached. Additional meetings may occur throughout each year as needed to implement the Plan.

6.2 Plan Revision Licensees will review and determine the need to update the Plan every 12 years, concurrent with preparing the Report on Recreation Resources. Licensees may propose an update to the Plan if significant changes in recreation use or resources occur. Examples of such events that may trigger a need to revise the Plan include:

Revisions and updates to USFSForest Service or other applicable management plans.

Changes in road maintenance standards or other infrastructure that affect recreation use within the Project Area.

Achieving occupancy or other triggers where new, but previously unanticipated, facilities will be required.

Catastrophic natural events, such as major forest fires or natural disasters, and significant effects of social disorder.

New federal or state policies, regulations, and laws that significantly affect recreation resources in the Project Area.

Documented substantial changes in demographic use patterns (e.g., increases in size or amount of recreational vehicle use, changes in types of watercraft using Project reservoirs), visitor needs, recreation preferences, types or patterns of use, season of use, or other social factors affecting recreation use within the Project Area.

Any Plan revision would be prepared in consultation with the USFSForest Service. A minimum of 30 days will be allowed for the USFSForest Service to review and comment on the revised Plan and make recommendations. Elements in the revision that are located on NFSL will be approved by the USFSForest Service. Licensees will file the revised Plan with FERC for approval and will include documentation of consultation with USFSForest Service. If any USFSForest Service recommendations are not included in the Plan revision, Licensees will include the rationale for not doing so in its FERC filing.





SECTION 7.0

References FERC. 2014. Project Recreation Facilities Tables and As-Built Site Plan Drawing Guidance.

Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Office of Energy Projects, Division of Hydropower Administration and Compliance. Washington DC. June.

USFSForest Service (United States Department of Agriculture, Forest Service). 1988. Plumas National Forest Land and Resource Management Plan, as amended in 2004 (USFSForest Service 2004) and 2007 (USFSForest Service 2007). Pacific Southwest Region,CA.

USFSForest Service. 2003. Appendix A, Granger-Thye Supplement to Special Use Permit FS-2700-4. National Headquarters, Washington, D.C. April.

USFSForest Service. 2004. Sierra Nevada Forest Plan Amendment, Final Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement and Record of Decision. United States Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Pacific Southwest Region, Vallejo, CA.

USFSForest Service. 2007. Sierra Nevada Forests Management Indicator Species Amendment, Final Environmental Impact Statement and Record of Decision. United States Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Pacific Southwest Region, Vallejo, CA.

Forest Service. 2013. Forest Service Handbook 2309 – Recreation Site Handbook. Chapter 30 – Recreation Fees. National Headquarters, Washington DC. December 9, 2013.

USFSForest Service. 2015. Forest Service Manual 2300 – Recreation, Wilderness, and Related Resource Management. Chapter 2330 – Public Managed Recreation Management. National Headquarters, Washington DC. May 21, 2015.Heberlein, T.A., and Vaske, J.J. (1977). Crowding and visitor conflict on the Bois Brule River (report WISC WRC 77-04). Madison, WI: University of Wisconsin Water Resources Center.

Shelby, B., J.J. Vaske, and T.A. Heberlein. 1989. Comparative analysis of crowding in multiple locations: Results from fifteen years of research. Journal of Leisure Research. 11: 269- 291.





ATTACHMENT A

PROJECT RECREATION FACILITIES TABLES

December 20167 Page A-1 Attachment A





Attachment A Page A-2 December 20167




Table A-1. FERC-Approved Recreation Facilities at the Bucks Creek Hydroelectric Project (FERC Project No. 619) (these are existing Project recreation facilities under the license expiring December 31, 20172018, unless otherwise noted, and will continue to be Project recreation facilities in a new license)

Recreation Site Name Recreation Facilities

Bucks Development


Undesignated parking spaces and no facilities are provided.


Campground with 7 walk-in campsites with tables and fire rings; 1 double-unit vault restroom; approximate 0.77-mi, native surfaced access trail from parking area


Approximate 675-foot-long trail below the dam with a native surface and metal staircase

Grizzly Forebay Recreation Area

Paved parking area with 12 single-vehicle parking spaces (including 1 accessible space); 1 single-unit vault restroom; boat launch with 1 native and compacted gravel-surfaced lane suitable for launching car top or small trailered boats


Gravel-surfaced parking area with undesignated parking for about 10 vehicles; sign


Single lane concrete boat launch; paved parking area with 5 single-vehicle parking spacesHaskins Valley Campground amenities located at the boat launch: 1 double-unit vault restroom (this is 1 of the 6 campground restrooms) and potable water


Existing: Family campground with 65 campsites (includes 2 accessible campsites, 60 with spurs for vehicles, and 5 walk-in) and 2 host campsites; 6 double-unit vault restrooms (1 of which is located at the boat launch); potable water; fire rings/pedestal grills, tables, wildlife resistant food lockers; RV dump station

Pending: Additional accessible campsite (total of 3) and possible increased capacitya


Existing: 3 group campsites (25 people-at-one-time each and includes 1 accessible group site) and 1 host campsite; 2 double-unit vault restrooms; potable water; fire rings/pedestal grills, tables, wildlife resistant food lockers; amphitheater

Pending: Hutchins Trail to Lower Bucks Lake to be brought into the list of facility amenities


2 picnic sites with tables; paved parking area with 8 single-vehicle spaces; 1 double-unit vault restroom


Existing: Family campground with 7 campsites; fire rings, tables, wildlife resistant food lockers

Pending: Possible rRelocation with same amenities plus vault restrooms (no. TBD); possible increased capacitya


Existing: Unsurfaced area along the shoreline available for parking and launching car top or small trailered boats; 1 single-unit vault restroom

Pending: Additional picnic sites (convert existing shoreline campsites), parking area, hand launch boat access, vault restrooms (no. TBD)





Recreation Site Name Recreation Facilities


Existing: Family campground with 10 campsites (includes 1 accessible campsite; 8 with spurs for vehicles and 2 walk-in) and 1 host campsite; 1 double-unit vault restroom; potable water; fire rings, tables, wildlife resistant food lockers

Pending: Possible increased capacitya , Mill Creek Campground Tie Trail


Double Single-lane, concrete boat launch with courtesy dock; paved parking area with 30 vehicle-with-trailer parking spaces and 22 single-vehicle parking spaces (including 3 accessible single-vehicle parking spaces); 30 picnic sites (including 3 accessible picnic sites) with tables and pedestal fire grills.2 double-unit vault restrooms; 1 4-unit flush restroom with shower; potable water; 1 host campsite

Pending: Shoreline access trail between Sundew and Mill Creek campgrounds, via Sandy Point Day Use Area.

Sundew Campground

Existing: Family campground with 22 campsites (includes 1 accessible campsite) and 1 host campsite; 2 double-unit vault restrooms; potable water; fire rings, tables, wildlife resistant food lockers

Pending: Possible increased capacitya


Gravel-surfaced parking area for about 9 vehicles; 1 single-unit vault restroom; native-surfaced trail (~1 mi)


3 picnic sites with tables (includes 1 accessible picnic site); paved parking area with 6 single-vehicle parking spaces (includes 1 accessible space); 1 double-unit vault restroom

Pending: Potential additional parking spacesa ; accessible shoreline access trail and fishing access

Grizzly Development

No recreation facilities

Notes: mi = mile(s)RV = recreation vehicleTBD = To be determined

a Number of additional sites depends on site conditions and will be determined during site design, including potential phased additions.





Table A-2. FERC-approved Recreation Amenities at the Bucks Creek Hydroelectric Project (FERC Project No. 619) (these are existing Project recreation facilities amenities under the license expiring December 31, 20182017, unless otherwise noted, and will continue to be Project recreation facilities amenities in a new license)

Project No.

DevelopmentName

Recreation Amenity Name

Recreation Amenity Type

Amenity Status Latitude Longitude

FERC Citation and Date Notes

619 Bucks Bucks Lake Inlet Parking Access Point Constructed N39°53’03.81” W121°08’58.02” 119 FERC

62,182 6/1/2007

Undesignated parking

available along Bucks Lake

Road shoulder

619 Bucks Grizzly Forebay Campground Campground Constructed N39°53’32.04” W121°17’09.90” 67 FERC

62,210 6/3/1994

7 campsites (walk-in/boat-in);

access trail

619 BucksGrizzly Forebay Gaging Station

TrailTrail Constructed N39°53’28.38” W121°17’39.54” 67 FERC

62,210 6/3/1994

Non-motorized trail

(~675 ft)

619 Bucks

Grizzly Forebay Fishing Access

(Grizzly Forebay Recreation

Areaa)

Boat Launch Area Constructed N39°53’28.08” W121°17’22.88” 67 FERC

62,210 6/3/1994

Parking, restroom,

shoreline trail

619 Bucks

Grizzly Powerhouse Access Road Turnaround

(Grizzly Powerhouse

Fishing Accessa)

Other Constructed N39°53’28.69” W121°16’23.19” 67 FERC 62,210 6/3/1994

Graveled parking area

for angler access

619 Bucks Haskins Valley Boat Launch

Boat Launch Area Constructed N39°52’12.35” W121°10’51.24”

18 FERC 62,553

3/31/1982

619 Bucks Haskins Valley Campground Campground Constructed N39°52’14.55” W121°10’28.38” 18 FERC

62,553 65 campsites

and 2 host





Project No.

DevelopmentName




FERC Citation and Date Notes3/31/1982 sites

619 Bucks Hutchins Group Campground Group Camp Constructed N39°54’06.59” W121°12’21.33” 119 FERC

62,182 6/1/2007

3 group sites (25 PAOTs

per site) and 1 host site

619 Bucks Hutchins Group Campground Trail Constructed N39°54’06.59” W121°12’21.33”

Proposed Project recreation amenity

Non-motorized trail

connecting campground to Lower Bucks Lake (~0.25

mi)

619 Bucks Indian Rock Day Use Area Picnic Area Constructed N39°53’17.14” W121°12’10.06”

130 FERC 62,059

1/20/20102 tables

619 BucksLower Bucks

Lake Campground

Campground Constructed N39°54’08.69” W121°13’07.80” 119 FERC 62,182 6/1/2007 7 campsitesb

619 BucksLower Bucks Lake Day Use

AreaAccess Point Constructed N39°54’01.52” W121°12’38.15” 119 FERC

62,182 6/1/2007

1 vault restroom;

cartop boat launch

619 BucksLower Bucks Lake Day Use

AreaAccess Point Unconstructed N39°54’08.69” W121°13’07.80”


1 vault restroom,

picnic sitesb , cartop boat

launch

619 Bucks Mill Creek Campground Campground Constructed N39°54’40.42” W121°11’13.47” 119 FERC

62,182 6/1/200710 campsitesb

and 1 host site

619 Bucks Mill Creek Campground

Trail Constructed N39°54’40.42” W121°11’13.47” Proposed Project recreation amenity

Non-motorized Mill

Creek





Project No.

DevelopmentName




FERC Citation and Date Notes

Campground Tie Trail

(~0.25 mi, connects to Mill Creek

Trail)

619 BucksSandy Point Boat Launch and Day

Use Area

Boat Launch Area Constructed N39°54’16.00” W121°11’12.60” 67 FERC

62,210 6/3/1994

Includes co-located picnic

area

619 BucksSandy Point Boat Launch and Day

Use AreaTrail Unconstructed N39°54’16.00” W121°11’12.60”


Non-motorized

shoreline trail between Mill

Creek and Sundew

campgrounds (~1.5 mi)

619 Bucks Sundew Campground Campground Constructed N39°54’04.49” W121°12’00.49” 119 FERC

62,182 6/1/200722 campsitesb

and 1 host site

619 Bucks Three Lakes Trailhead Access Point Constructed N39°58’15.62” W121°13’24.06” 67 FERC

62,210 6/3/1994

Parking, restroom,

shoreline trail

619 Bucks Three Lakes Trailhead Trail Constructed N39°58’15.62” W121°13’24.06” 67 FERC

62,210 6/3/1994Shoreline trail

(~1 mi)

619 Bucks West End Cove Day Use Area Picnic Area Constructed N39°53’22.71” W121°12’16.27”

130 FERC 62,059

1/20/20103 tables

619 Bucks West End Cove Day Use Area

Reservoir Fishing Unconstructed N39°53’22.71” W121°12’16.27”


Accessible fishing access

trail

Notes: FERC = Federal Energy Regulatory Commissionft = feet





PAOT = people-at-one-timea Corresponds with the wording on the facility entrance sign.b Potential increased capacity depending on site conditions and will be determined during site design.





ATTACHMENT B

AS-BUILT SITE PLAN DRAWINGS [PDF OF 22X34 FORMAT DRAWINGS]

December 20167 Page B-1 Attachment B





Attachment B Page B-2 December 20167



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