CC SR 20190305 I - PV Nature Preserve Night Hike Policy
RANCHO PALOS VERDES CITY COUNCIL MEETING DATE: 03/05/2019
AGENDA REPORT AGENDA HEADING: Consent Calendar
AGENDA DESCRIPTION:
Consideration and possible action to revise the existing Palos Verdes Nature Preserve
Night Hike Policy.
RECOMMENDED COUNCIL ACTION:
(1) Approve the revised Night Hike Policy for the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve.
FISCAL IMPACT: Staff costs associated with the issuance of a Night Hike Permit are
partially recovered with the $60 annual permit fee for non-profit groups. Staff costs
associated with City-led night hikes are partially recovered with the $7 individual
participant fees.
Amount Budgeted: N/A
Additional Appropriation: N/A
Account Number(s): N/A
ORIGINATED BY: Katie Lozano, Administrative Analyst/Open Space Manager
REVIEWED BY: Cory Linder, Recreation and Parks Director
APPROVED BY: Doug Willmore, City Manager
ATTACHED SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS:
A. Proposed Revised Night Hike Policy (page A-1)
B. January 15, 2019 City Council Staff Report on a Revised Night Hike Policy
(page B-1)
C. May 18, 2010 City Council Staff Report on Night Hike Policies (page C-1)
BACKGROUND AND DISCUSSION:
At the January 15, 2019, City Council Meeting, the City Council considered a revised
night hike policy for the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve. The City Council asked Staff to
revise the policy with two clarifications: 1. Make clear that organized groups (i.e. Boy
Scouts, neighborhood groups) could take advantage of night hikes, and 2. That City
Council has the discretion to make revisions as needed to the night hike policy.
The proposed policy does not prohibit organized groups from night hikes in the Palos
Verdes Nature Preserve, nor does it prohibit the City from restarting its Night Hike
Program. The proposed policy would require the group requesting a night hike to be led
by a City or PVPLC staff member, or an organization/agency contracted with the City. It
is important to note that the City offered regular night hikes to the public from 2011-
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2013, as part of contracted enforcement and interpretive services with the Mountains
Recreation and Conservation Authority (MRCA) Rangers. Trained rangers would lead
the public on monthly night hikes October through February, and they would lead
private groups at the groups’ request. The City charged $7 per hiker to partially recover
MRCA contract fees and staff administrative costs. The City discontinued its night hike
program when it discontinued its contract with the MRCA.
The City does not currently have interpretive staff, but it is contractually associated with
two entities that provide interpretive hikes in the Nature Preserve: Los Serenos de Point
Vicente Docents and the Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy. Both entities
have indicated that if a group requests a night hike, that they would be willing to lead the
group based on availability. Additionally, the Palos Verdes/South Bay Sierra Club’s
local night hike leader has indicated that he is willing to lead a group on a night hike
pending availability. Per the proposed policy, in order for the local hike leader to lead
an outside group on a night hike, he would enter into a simple contract with the City,
and become what the policy identifies as a City-contracted entity.
The revised policy reduces the number of night hikes to 4 hikes per month, partially for
natural resource protection purposes. Night hikes are permitted on a first come first
served basis. The City will reserve 2 night hikes per year for private hikes, and release
these hike opportunities if they are not requested. The City has received approximately
2 requests for private night hikes in the past 12 years, and feels this number is
sufficient. If the demand for private night hikes increases, Staff will reconsider this
practice.
The second clarification requested by the City Council is that the City Council may
revise the night hike policy. It is important to note that the primary purpose of the
Preserve is to provide comprehensive management and conservation of multiple
species, including some species listed under the fe deral and California Endangered
Species Acts. While passive recreational use (i.e. night hikes) are considered a
conditionally covered activity under the draft Natural Communities Conservation
Plan/Habitat Conservation Plan (NCCP/HCP), both the City Council approved Preserve
Public Use Master Plan and the City Council accepted draft NCCP/HCP dictate that
recreational use must be managed and implemented in a manner that does not
negatively impact the conservation value of the Preserve. For this reason, the City
would need to coordinate any revisions to the night hike policy with the California
Department of Fish and Wildlife and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, who are the
entities that would issue the City its NCCP/HCP permits and coordinate with the City in
its monitoring and management, and the City’s Preserve Manager (PVPLC) to account
for impacts to protected species and habitat. Additionally, the City Manager or Director
of Recreation and Parks would have the authority to temporarily restrict nighttime
activity, if it appears to negatively impact natural resources. This temporary restriction
would be in place until the City Council, the Wildlife Agencies, and PVPLC had time to
coordinate and implement a formal change in policy.
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Clarifying language has been added to the policy to make these two distinctions clear.
The January staff report has been added as an attachment to this staff report for a
thorough background on night hikes and the previous amended policies.
ALTERNATIVES:
In addition to the Staff recommendation, the following alternative actions are available
for the City Council’s consideration:
1. Amend the Public Use Master Plan to discontinue night hike activity in the
Nature Preserve.
2. Provide Staff with alternative direction on a night hike policy.
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Palos Verdes Nature Preserve Night Hike Policy
Pursuant to the City Council-adopted Public Use Master Plan (PUMP) for the Palos
Verdes Nature Preserve (Preserve) and consistent with the City of Rancho Palos
Verdes Natural Community Conservation Plan/ Habitat Conservation Plan
(NCCP/HCP), night hikes in the Preserve as described below are considered a
conditionally Covered Activity. The regulations stated in this policy may be amended at
the City Council’s discretion provided amendments are consistent with the NCCP/HCP,
have been coordinated with the Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy (PVPLC),
and have been approved by the Wildlife Agencies.
1. Night hikes shall only be permitted with a City-issued permit in the Preserve
when closed (between one hour after sunset and one hour before sunrise). No
nighttime activity using bicycles or equestrians shall be permitted when the
Preserve is closed.
2. Night hike participants shall abide by all rules, regulations, and laws established
by the Rancho Palos Verdes Municipal Code and the conditions of the City-
issued permit.
3. Night hikes shall be limited to trail locations and routes, which have been pre-
approved for use by the Recreation and Parks Director or his/her designee in
coordination with Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy (PVPLC) and the
Wildlife Agencies. A selected route must be approved by the City, in
coordination with PVPLC, at least 72 hours in advance of the scheduled hike.
Approval shall be based on potential impacts to biological resources (flora and
fauna), parking availability, and adverse impacts to residential neighborhoods.
4. Night hike participants (excluding City-led hikes) shall obtain a date-specific
permit issued by the City’s Recreation and Parks Department at least 72 hours in
advance of the scheduled night hike.
5. Night hikes shall be limited to 20 participants per hike.
6. The City shall not allow more than 4 night hikes per month, and no more than 1
night hike in an evening. Night hike requests shall be considered on a first-come,
first-served basis.
7. Night hikes shall conclude by 9 p.m.
8. Night hikes shall be limited to the months of October through February.
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9. Night hikes shall be led by either City Staff, a City-contracted agency, or a non-
profit organization with a conservation/natural education-based mission. Any
night hike led by a City-contracted agency or non-profit organization other than
the PVPLC shall have a qualified City Staff member present for the hike, or the
hike leader shall have received specific training on habitat sensitivity and safety
from the City and the PVPLC prior to leading a hike. Groups (youth groups,
neighborhoods, etc.) may request a night hike led by the City, City-contracted
agency, or PVPLC, or the City may implement a night hike program in
compliance with the regulations of this night hike policy.
10. Lighting used during night hikes shall be restricted to handheld flashlights and
headlamps that include red filters with a light output of a maximum 50 lumens
and shall only be used to ensure user safety. Lighting shall never be used to
illuminate wildlife. Flashlights and headlamps with an adjustable light output are
permitted for use but shall be adjusted prior to the start of the hike to the
approximate brightness of a 50-lumen flashlight provided by the hike lead.
11. All night hike participants shall sign a liability waiver, and hiking groups led by a
non-profit organization shall provide the City with a certificate of insurance
naming the City additionally insured in the amount of $1 million single -limit
liability at least 72 hours in advance of the scheduled night hike.
12. Night hikes shall be subject to an annual fee established by City Council
Resolution.
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RANCHO PALOS VERDES CITY COUNCIL MEETING DATE: 01/15/2019
AGENDA REPORT AGENDA HEADING: Regular Business
AGENDA DESCRIPTION:
Consideration and possible action to revise the existing Palos Verdes Nature Preserve
Night Hike Policy.
RECOMMENDED COUNCIL ACTION:
(1) Approve the revised Night Hike Policy for the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve.
FISCAL IMPACT: Staff costs associated with the issuance of a Night Hike Permit are
partially recovered with the $60 annual permit fee collected.
Amount Budgeted: N/A
Additional Appropriation: N/A
Account Number(s): N/A
ORIGINATED BY: Katie Lozano, Administrative Analyst/Open Space Manager
REVIEWED BY: Cory Linder, Recreation and Parks Director
APPROVED BY: Doug Willmore, City Manager
ATTACHED SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS:
A. Proposed Revised Night Hike Policy (page A-1)
B. May 18, 2010 City Council Staff Report on Night Hike Policies (page B-1)
BACKGROUND AND DISCUSSION:
In 2009, during its consideration of the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve Public Use
Master Plan (PUMP), the City Council determined to allow night hikes in the Palos
Verdes Nature Preserve (Preserve) and directed Staff to bring back a permitting policy
for City Council consideration with regulations limiting the use to hiking only (no
bicycling or equestrian uses), limiting the number of hikers in a group, identifying
parking locations, prohibiting activity after 9 p.m., and minimizing adverse impacts to the
Preserve’s natural resources and neighboring residents. On May 18, 2010, the City
Council adopted the Night Hike Policy (Attachment B).
At the July 31, 2018, City Council Meeting, and meetings prior, residents of the Del
Cerro neighborhood voiced concerns about traffic, crime, littering, noise, and activities
associated with the public’s use of the Portuguese Bend Reserve at night.
Subsequently, the City Council directed Staff to discontinue issuing night hike permits
and bring back a revised Night Hike Policy (Policy) that would lessen adverse impacts
on the residential neighborhoods surrounding the Preserve for City Council
consideration.
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In response to the City Council’s directive, Staff stopped issuing night hike permits and
began working with the South Bay/Palos Verdes Chapter (SBPV) of the Sierra Club,
Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy (PVPLC), the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (collectively referred to as the Wildlife
Agencies) on developing a revised Policy that would balance the protection of biological
resources in accordance to the City’s Natural Communities Conservation Plan/Habitat
Conservation Plan (NCCP/HCP), the tranquility of the adjacent residential
neighborhoods, and public access. After several months of on-going discussions with
the various interested parties, the City developed a draft revised Policy (Attachment A).
In summary, the salient revisions to the proposed Policy consist of the following:
1. Non-profit hikes must be led by a qualified hike leader who has received training
on habitat sensitivity and safety from the PVPLC and from the City, respectively.
No other night hikes will be permitted.
2. Bicycle or equestrian use at night is strictly prohibited in the Preserve.
3. Night hike participants have been reduced from 30 to 20 per hike.
4. Night hike frequency has been reduced from 10 per month, year-round, to 4
hikes per month between the months of October and February.
5. Lighting on trails must be specifically regulated for habitat sensitivity.
6. Night hike routes will be coordinated with the Federal and State Wildlife Agencies
and the PVPLC to avoid bird nesting locations and/or areas considered to be
especially important to sensitive species.
7. Night hikes may take place throughout the Preserve, lessening adverse impacts
to the adjacent neighborhoods and sensitive species associated with
concentrating activities solely within the Portuguese Bend Reserve.
8. The City-issued Night Hike Permit is discretionary and may be amended,
revoked, or discontinued based on, among other things, adverse impacts to
biological resources and neighboring properties.
The proposed revised Policy continues to allow night hikes in the Portuguese Bend
Reserve; however, parking will be directed away from residents’ homes, eliminating any
potential adverse impacts. It also opens other Preserve properties for night hikes at the
Recreation and Parks Department Director’s discretion, and will take into consideration
parking, impacts to biological resources, and adverse impacts, such as traffic, noise,
and littering, to adjacent neighbors. Opening other areas within the Preserve for night
hikes will disperse the use, reducing the concentration to one area only. Moreover,
reducing the number of night hikes from 10 to 4 per month reduces night-time activity
(to date, the average use of the Preserve for night hikes has been approximately 15 per
year). Currently, only 5 trail routes have been approved for night hike use; however,
additional routes may be proposed and reviewed for use in coordination with the PVPLC
and the Wildlife Agencies as described in the attached Policy (Attachment A).
While any non-profit organization may apply for a night hike permit, the only
organization that has been granted a permit since 2010 has been the SBPV Sierra
Club. The SBPV Sierra Club has participated in an average of 15 hikes per year, with
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approximately 15 hikers per group. Their hikes typically take place on the same day of
the week, end at 8:30 p.m., and are led by a qualified hike leader with extensive
interpretive and hiking safety training. Recreation and Parks Staff remain in contact with
the local group leader, and have found no deviation from policy requirements, no known
negative impacts, and have often benefitted from the hike leader’s prompt reporting of
illegal activity and observations encountered on night hikes to City Staff.
In addition to non-profit organization self-led night hikes, the proposed revised Policy
also continues to address City-led night hikes. In 2011-2013, when the City contracted
with the Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority (MRCA) for ranger services,
the Rangers led night hikes approximately 6 times per year, with approximately 15
participants per hike. The City no longer contracts with the MRCA, but through the
proposed Policy the City would retain the ability to conduct Staff-led night hikes.
As previously reported, during the development of the proposed Policy, City Staff
coordinated with the PVPLC and the Wildlife Agencies to ensure that the revised Policy
adheres to the NCCP/HCP as it relates to the nighttime use of the Preserve and its
potential impacts to biological resources. With this in mind, as well as the primary
purpose of the Preserve, which serves as mitigation for losses associated with City
projects per the NCCP/HCP and PUMP, is the protection of habitat and species
protection, and any passive recreational use of the Preserve, including nighttime use,
must be managed to ensure the activity does not adversely impact these biological
resources. The City believes that this Policy provides the assurances to allow the City to
continue issuing the discretionary Night Hike Permits.
Recently published studies examining recreational use in Southern California have
shown that human presence, including hiking, biking, and horseback riding, impacts
wildlife. While the data necessary to assess impacts of these activities within the City’s
Preserve has not been collected, there is data for animals, including coastal California
gnatcatchers and cactus wrens that show steep declines in abundance since 2012.
Based on this information, the City, in coordination with the PVPLC and the W ildlife
Agencies, is recommending a reduction in night-time activity in order to protect habitat
and covered species. This is reflected in the proposed policy.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, California Department of Fish and Wildlife, and the
City’s habitat manager, PVPLC, have reviewed and approved the proposed revised
policy because it further restricts night hikes.
Additional Information
There is additional unauthorized night hike and mountain bike activity in the Preserve
which some members of the public may have mistaken for City-permitted nighttime use.
Staff is continuing to address this unauthorized use by coordinating Preserve deputies
to confront the illegal activity. The addition of gates and entry controls at Burma Road
and Rattlesnake Trailheads are anticipated to help curtail nighttime use of the Preserve.
Staff believes that it is the unauthorized nigh use that has caused all or the majority of
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the behavior that has led to complaints from residents. The City Council approved a
gate at Burma Road at its July 31, 2018, Meeting, and Staff anticipates installation no
later than this summer. The City Council will consider an agenda item tonight to
approve a gate and security measures at the Rattlesnake Trailhead. Staff will continue
monitoring unauthorized nighttime use following installation of the gates.
ALTERNATIVES:
In addition to the Staff recommendation, the following alternative actions are available
for the City Council’s consideration:
1. Amend the Public Use Master Plan to discontinue night hike activity in the
Nature Preserve.
2. Provide Staff with alternative direction on a night hike policy.
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Palos Verdes Nature Preserve Night Hike Policy
Pursuant to the City Council-adopted Public Use Master Plan (PUMP) for the Palos
Verdes Nature Preserve (Preserve), night hikes in the Preserve is a permitted
discretionary activity. The regulations stated in this policy may be amended at the City’s
discretion to provide additional protection to the biological resources within the Preserve
in accordance to the City’s Natural Communities Conservation Plan/Habitat
Conservation Plan (NCCP/HCP). Policy amendments may include, but are not limited
to, adjusting the frequency and location of night hikes, revoking permits, or
discontinuing the permit program in the interest of protecting biological resources.
1. Night hikes shall only be permitted with a City-issued permit in the Preserve
when closed (between one hour after sunset and one hour before sunrise). No
nighttime activity using bicycles or equestrians shall be permitted when the
Preserve is closed.
2. Night hike participants shall abide by all rules, regulations, and laws established
by the Rancho Palos Verdes Municipal Code and the conditions of the City-
issued permit.
3. Night hikes shall be limited to trail locations and routes, which have been pre-
approved for use by the Recreation and Parks Director or his/her designee in
coordination with Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy (PVPLC) and the
Wildlife Agencies. A selected route must be approved by the City, in
coordination with PVPLC, at least 72 hours in advance of the scheduled hike.
Approval shall be based on potential impacts to biological resources (flora and
fauna), parking availability, and adverse impacts to residential neighborhoods.
4. Night hike participants (excluding City hikes) shall obtain a date-specific permit
issued by the City’s Recreation and Parks Department at least 72 hours in
advance of the scheduled night hike.
5. Night hikes shall be limited to 20 participants per hike.
6. The City shall not allow more than 4 night hikes per month, and no more than 1
night hike in an evening. Night hike requests shall be considered on a first-come,
first-served basis.
7. Night hikes shall conclude by 9 p.m.
8. Night hikes shall be limited to the months of October through February.
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9. Night hikes shall be led by either City Staff, a City-contracted agency, or a non-
profit organization with a conservation/natural education based mission. Any
night hike led by a City-contracted agency or non-profit organization other than
the PVPLC shall have a qualified City Staff member present for the hike, or the
hike leader shall have received specific training on habitat sensitivity and safety
from the City and the PVPLC prior to leading a hike.
10. Lighting used during night hikes shall be restricted to handheld flashlights and
headlamps that include red filters with a light output of a maximum 50 lumens
and shall only be used to ensure user safety. Lighting shall never be used to
illuminate wildlife. Flashlights and headlamps with an adjustable light output are
permitted for use but shall be adjusted prior to the start of the hike to the
approximate brightness of a 50-lumen flashlight provided by the hike lead.
11. All night hike participants shall sign a liability waiver, and hiking groups led by a
non-profit organization shall provide the City with a certificate of insurance
naming the City additionally insured in the amount of $1 million single-limit
liability at least 72 hours in advance of the scheduled night hike.
12. Group night hikes led by a non-profit organization shall be subject to an annual
fee established by City Council Resolution.
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MEMORANDUM
TO:
FROM:
DATE:
HONORABLE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF CITY COUN
TOM ODOM,INTERIM DIRECTOR,RECREATION
MAY 18,2010
SUBJECT:
REVIEWED:
PALOS VERDES NATURE PRESERVE NIGHTTIME USE
CAROLYN LEHR,CITY MANAGER C!9-
Staff Coordinator:Katie Howe,Administrative Analyst II ~
RECOMMENDATION
Approve nighttime use of the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve (Preserve)for hikers
subject to regulations detailed in this report.
BACKGROUND
After discussions related to the PUMP document at its April 7,2009 meeting,the City
Council decided to allow night hiking in the Preserve and directed staff to bring back a
permitting process for Council approval with the following guidelines:
•Limit nighttime activity to hiking
•Set a limit of 20 individuals participating in the nighttime activity
•Identify where parking will occur
•Prohibit nighttime activities from occurring after 9:00 p.m.
•Limit nighttime use of the Preserve to one hike per month
•Identify the specific reserve location nighttime activities will occur
In addition to these regulations,Council directed staff to consider participant and
community safety,enforcement,and negative impacts to the Preserve.
DISCUSSION
Based on research,Council direction,input from the Wildlife Resource Agencies (U.S.
Fish and Wildlife and the California Department of Fish and Game),and current
practices,staff has developed a night hike permitting process for consideration by the
City Council.The proposed permit process takes into account public enjoyment of and
access to the Preserve,hiker and community safety,City resources for program
management,neighboring resident privacy,protection of Preserve habitat and wildlife,
and input from groups interested in night hiking.
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Palos Verdes Nature Preserve Nighttime Use
May 18,2010
Page 2
Staff recommends that the City implement a night hike permitting process for an initial
trial period of 6 months,after which staff will bring any necessary revisions back to
Council for approval.Night hike permits will be issued as early as June 2010 through
the Recreation and Parks Department.The staff recommended nighttime use
regulations are listed in Attachment A.Some key regulations include:
•Nighttime Preserve recreational activities are limited to hiking
•Nighttime activity is activity taking place after the Preserve is closed (one hour after
sunset)
•Night hikes will be led by a Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority
(MRCA)Park Ranger,or a non-profit organization with a City-issued permit
•Night hike participants (ranger-led hikes excluded)will be issued a night hike permit
and date-specific parking passes
•Organizations approved for a City-issued permit will be limited to 8 night hikes per
month/30 participants per hike
•No more than 10 night hikes will take place in a month,and not more than 1 night
hike will take place in an evening.Night hike requests will be considered on a first
come,first served basis
•Night hikes are permissible only at the Portuguese Bend Reserve portion of the
Preserve,for the following reasons:
o Frequency of ranger patrols
o The width of Burma trail makes it ideal,from a safety and habitat protection
standpoint,for hiking in the dark
o Parking is readily available
o Limiting night hiking to one reserve will allow for optimum use of limited City
resources for patrols and monitoring nighttime activity
•Night hiking routes must be pre-approved by the Recreation and Parks Director 30
days in advance of the scheduled hike
•Night hike activity will conclude at 9:00 p.m.
The City will offer three opportunities for night hiking:
1.MRCA Ranger-led Public Hikes
MRCA Park Rangers will lead 5-6 public night hikes annually at or near the time of a full
moon.Hikers will register for the hike with the Recreation and Parks Department.
These public hikes are a recreational offering for the community,and will take
precedent over outside organizations requesting night hikes.
2.MRCA Ranger-led Private Hikes
Park Rangers will lead private groups on night hikes upon request.Night hike approval
is at the discretion of the Recreation and Parks Director and will be based upon an
organization's ability to meet safety requirements.Staff anticipates groups requesting
ranger-led night hikes will include schools and community groups.Night hike permits
will be issued on a first come,first served basis with preference given to schools and
community organizations.
3.Organization-led Hikes
This category of night hiking groups will be very restrictive in the interest of public safety
and habitat and wildlife preservation.Organizations may apply to the Recreation and
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Palos Verdes Nature Preserve Nighttime Use
May 18,2010
Page 3
Parks Department for a 6-month permit;a Park Ranger will not be present.Permit
issuance and trails available for use are at the discretion of the Recreation and Parks
Director.Staff anticipates the Sierra Club,Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy,
and Los Serenos de Point Vicente Docents to request this type of unsupervised night
hike.Groups will be required to submit liability waivers and provide insurance and
references.
Analysis
At this time,the Palos Verdes-South Bay chapter of the Sierra Club (PV-SB Sierra
Club)is the only entity that has approached the City (both during the PUMP process
and presently)regarding self-led night hiking within the Preserve.Staff has been in
contact with the PV-SB Sierra Club to discuss their desired use of the Preserve.The
Sierra Club is requesting nighttime use that is more extensive than staff's
recommended policy.In the attached March 29,2010 correspondence,the group
requests permits for 30 afterhours hikes per month within the entire Palos Verdes
Nature Preserve,while staff is recommending 8 night hikes per month per organization
(with City-issued night hike permit),restricted to the Portuguese Bend Reserve.
The basis for staff's recommendation of 8 night hikes per month was a compromise to
accommodate the PV-SB Sierra Club's request in its March 10,2010 correspondence.
However,the PV-SB Sierra Club revised its request when realizing that staff's .
recommendation was restricted to the Portuguese Bend Reserve.The PV-SB Sierra
Club is requesting access to the entire Palos Verdes Nature Preserve for night hikes
partially due to the unique situation that it is already holding the hikes to the degree
requested,and has reported to have done so for the past 30 years.The PV-SB Sierra
Club shares that the requested night hikes can take place mostly within a reserve,or
may pass through a reserve via connecting trails.In the March 29,2010
correspondence,it is indicated that specific routes are not predetermined;the hike
leader decides the hiking route that evening.
The basis for staff's recommendation is concern for public safety,wildlife and habitat
preservation,and limited resources to monitor nighttime activity in the Preserve.Staff
has attached research on other municipality's night hike regulations.The overwhelming
majority of parks and open space areas have either implemented a night hike permit
process similar to that suggested by staff,or do not allow afterhours activity within their
parks/preserves.Several municipalities shared that they do not have the resources to
adequately enforce park hours.
ALTERNATIVES
In addition to staff's recommended policy,Council may also wish to consider the
following alternative actions:
1.Prohibit all nighttime/afterhours Preserve use.
2.Direct staff to create an expanded permitting process for unsupervised night
hikes incorporating some or all requests made by the PV-SB Sierra Club.
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Palos Verdes Nature Preserve Nighttime Use
May 18,2010
Page 4
FISCAL IMPACT
Staff proposes to set night hike fees which will be brought to Council for approval in
June 2010 as part of the Cost Based Fee Update.Fees will offset the City's costs for
staff time and MRCA Ranger services.
Attachments:Palos Verdes Nature Preserve Nighttime Use Regulations
Staff Report and excerpt of Minutes from April 7,2009 Council
Meeting
Night Hike Research Matrix
Sierra Club letters dated April 20,2010,March 29,2010,and
March 10,2010
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Attachment A
Palos Verdes Nature Preserve Nighttime Use Regulations
•Nighttime Preserve users are required to abide by rules,regulations,and laws
established by the City and the Recreation and Parks Department
•Nighttime Preserve recreational activities are limited to hiking;
•Nighttime activity is activity taking place after the Preserve is closed (one hour
after sunset)
•Night hikes will be led by a Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority
(MRCA)Park Ranger,or a non-profit organization with a City-issued permit
•Night hike participants (ranger-led hikes excluded)will be issued a night hike
permit and date-specific parking passes
•Organizations approved for a City-issued permit will be limited to 8 night hikes
per month/30 participants per hike
•No more than 10 night hikes will take place in a month,and not more than 1
night hike will take place in an evening.Night hike requests will be
considered on a first come,first served basis
•Night hikes are permissible only at the Portuguese Bend Reserve portion of
the Preserve,for the following reasons:
o Frequency of ranger patrols
o The width of Burma trail makes it ideal,from a safety and habitat protection
standpoint,for hiking in the dark
o Parking is readily available
o Limiting night hiking to one reserve will allow for optimum use of limited
City resources for patrols and monitoring nighttime activity
•Night hiking routes must be pre-approved by the Recreation and Parks
Director 30 days in advance of the scheduled hike
•Night hike activity will conclude at 9:00 p.m.
•Parking is restricted to Crenshaw Blvd.and the area immediately adjacent to
the Portuguese Bend Nature Reserve
•All participants will sign a liability waiver,and self-led hiking groups will
provide the City with a certificate of insurance naming the City of Rancho
Palos Verdes additionally insured in the amount of $1 ,000,000 single limit
liability.
•Night hikes will operate under the "Leave No Trace"philosophy.
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CrTY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES
MEMORANDUM
&CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS
,DIRECTOR OF PLANNING,
DE ENFORCEMENT
HONORABLE MAYO
JOEL ROJAS,
BUILDING AND
APRIL 7,2009
PALOS VERDES NATURE PRESERVE -PUBLIC USE
MASTERPLAN .
REVIEWED:CAROLYN LEHR,CITY MANAGER W
Project Manager:Ara Michael Mihranian,AICP,Principal Plann~
RECOMMENDATION
DATE:
SUBJECT:
TO:
FROM:
Staff recommends that the City Council:
1.Review and provide Staff with direction on the PUMP Committee's
recommendations pertaining to permitted land uses and activities (archery,
paragliding,farming,etc.)in the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve;
2.Provide Staff with direction on additional issues to be addressed in the final
PUMP document,such as nighttime use of the Preserve,annual reporting
requirements,and monitoring and enforcement;
3.Receive and file the Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy 6-month report
on trail use at the Portuguese Bend Reserve;and,
4.Disband the PUMP Committee and direct Staff to come back at a later date to
recognize the PUMP Committee with City tiles.
BACKGROUND
In August 2004,the City Council approved the NCCP subarea plan for final review and
approval by the Resource Agencies.The Council approved NCCP requires the City
and the PVPLC to develop a Public Use Master Plan (PUMP)document that identifies
how public use of the Preserve should be managed.Specifically,the PUMP is to
address issues such as public access,trailhead locations,parking,trail uses,fencing,
signs,and other issues that may arise.
On June 6,2006,the City Council formed a 15-member PUMP Committee (plus one ex-
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officio member)to assist the City and the PVPLC with the development of certain
components of the PUMP document,such as the development of a trails plan.The
PUMP Committee began its tenure on July 12,2006.Between July 12,2006 and
January 30,2008,the PUMP Committee met 32 times.During this time period,the
Committee formed its final recommendations for the Preserve Trails Plan (PTP),which
identified the trail routes and trail uses for the greater Preserve.
On February 23,2008,the City Council held an adjourned Saturday meeting to receive
the PUMP Committee's recommendations on the PTP.Based on the Council's review
of the Committee's recommendations,the City Council officially named the
approximately 1,200-acre Preserve the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve and designated
the ten sub-areas that make up the greater Preserve as "Reserves"while renaming the
Canyons Reserve to the Portuguese Bend Reserve.That same day,the Council began
its review of the proposed trail routes,trail uses,and trail names for the Preserve.After
conducting three public hearings (February 23,2008,March 18,2008,and April 29,
2008),on April 29,2008,the City Council adopted a Preserve Trails Plan for the Palos
Verdes Nature Preserve.
The PTP that was adopted by the City Council on April 29,2008 will be just one
component of the PUMP document,albeit the biggest component.The PTP was
singled out and forwarded to the City Council for consideration before the completion of
the entire PUMP document so that the City and the PVPLC could immediately begin
implementing the PTP.Upon the completion of the Council's review of the PTP,the
PUMP Committee reconvened to continue working on the remaining components of the
PUMP Document.
The PUMP Committee held three meetings (May 21,2008,June 4,2008,and July 2,
2008)after the Council's adoption of the PTP to discuss some additional issues that will
be included in the PUMP Document.The topics the Committee reviewed included
public amenities to be found in the Preserve (picnic areas,overlooks,fencing,etc.),
public access (trailheads,etc.)and permitted land use and activities in the Preserve
(paragliding,archery,farming,and bicycle skills training area).The minutes from these
three Committee meetings are attached for Council review.It should be noted that the
minutes from the PUMP Committee's final July 2,2008 meeting were not formally
adopted since the Committee did not conduct a follow-up meeting to adopt the minutes.
The Council is being asked tonight to review the Committee's recommendations
pertaining to permitted land uses and activities in the Preserve,to provide Staff with
direction on items to be included in the PUMP document that were not reviewed by the
PUMP Committee,and to receive and file the PVPLC's six month report of trail use at
the Portuguese Bend Reserve.Furthermore,the Council is being asked to officially
disband the PUMP Committee.Based on Council direction at this meeting,Staff will
complete the PUMP document for review and approval by the City Council and the
resource agencies at a later date.
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DISCUSSION
The following discussion explains in detail the four (4)components of Staff's
recommendation:
1.Review and provide Staff with direction on the PUMP Committee's
recommendations pertaining to permitted land uses and activities
{paragliding.archery.farming,etc.)in the Preserve
The following is a summary of the Committee recommendations on land uses and
activities proposed to be permitted in the Preserve based on information presented to
the Committee from the respective organizations:
•Paragliding
According to Section 12.16.045 of the Rancho Palos Verdes Municipal Code
(RPVMC):
No person shall land,release,take off in,OF fly in any balloon designed to carry
passengers,helicopter,parasail,hang glider,or other aircraft from any city-owned
land except in areas specifically set aside therefore or with the express written
permission from the city.
The City's approved NCCP states that paragliding can be allowed in the Preserve
provided that impacts to habitat can be minimized.With that in mind,City Staff
contacted representatives from the Rancho Palos Verdes Paragliding Society (RPV-
PGS)to give a presentation on their proposed use and operation within the Preserve
to the PUMP Committee.
On June 4,2008,the RPV-PGS gave a presentation to the PUMP Committee on
paragliding within the Preserve (see attached minutes).According to the
presentation (see attachment),paragliding has been occurring on the southern
slopes of the Palos Verdes Peninsula for many years.All pilots are certified and
insured for $1,000,000 by the United States Hang Gliding and Paragliding
Association (USHGPA).All visiting pilots must be members of the USHGPA and are
given a site briefing on the rules and regulations.
The RPV-PGS is requesting permission for individual paragliders to launch from one
location in the Preserve,off the Burma Road Trail near the entry gate to the
Portuguese Bend Reserve (see attached presentation map).The launch site
coincides with the location of a City Council approved donor overlook which has
been recently constructed.This location is approximately 500-feet south of Del
Cerro Park and would encompass approximately 400 square feet of area.In
regards to landing,the RPV-PGS is not proposing to designate an official landing
zone within the Preserve.Rather,there are two proposed landing zones located
outside the Preserve at the beach area adjacent to the Trump National Golf Course
and at the area along the dirt fire road in the Gateway Park.Only in cases of
emergencies maya landing occur in an open area of the Preserve.
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Based on the paragliding presentation,the Committee recommends that the City
Council allow the launching of paragliders at the Portuguese Bend Reserve within
the designated area off the Burma Road Trail with landings to occur outside the
Preserve and to amend the Preserve Trails Plan to include a pedestrian trail to the
launch area.The Committee stressed that they do not support landing in the
Preserve.
This Motion passed 6-1-3 with Member Shaw dissenting and Members Bell,Cicoria,
and Wessel abstaining.
It should be noted that the City has received comments from the adjacent neighbors
that are in opposition of allowing paragliding in the Preserve.The neighbor's
opposition primarily focuses on privacy and safety concerns.Attached are the
neighbor's comment letters including a neighborhood petition and photographs .
•Archery
On June 4,2008,representatives from the -Palos Verdes Archery Club gave a
presentation to the PUMP Committee on their use of a portion of the City's RDA
property at Portuguese Bend since 1989 for a roving field archery range.The
property is now within the Abalone Cove Reserve.Permission to use City land was
granted by the City Council in 1989 through the approval of Conditional Use Permit
No.10 (see attachment).The conditions adopted by the City Council in 1989
specify the parameters for using City land,including the City's ability to revoke the
approval with a 3D-day notice or immediately in incidents involving landslides or
geologic conditions that prove to be an imminent hazard to health,safety and
welfare.To date,the City has not had reported problems with the operation of the
Archery Club.Furthermore,there is no lease or fee paid to the City for the use of
City land,however,the Archery Club maintains the fire road on an annual basis.
According to the representatives from the Palos Verdes Archery Club,the
organization maintains a membership of approximately 195 paid members.Paid
members receive a key to the entry gate off Palos Verdes Drive South that is
changed on an annual basis.The membership fee covers,among other things,the
annual maintenance of the dirt road.Concerns were expressed by the PUMP
Committee with membership being contingent on payment of annual dues.
Representatives indicated that membership is open to anyone who owns an archery
bow.The Archery Club is used between dawn and dusk in accordance with the City
park hours.The Club occasionally conducts special events,such as tournaments,
competitions,and picnics.
Based on the information provided at the meeting,the Committee recommends that
the City Council allow the archery club to continue operating at the Abalone Cove
Reserve under the existing Conditional Use Permit.
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The motion passed 6-3-1 with Members Bell,Shaw,and Wessel dissenting,and
Member Cicoria abstaining.
If the Council approves the continued operation of the Archery Club in its present
location in the Preserve,Staff recommends that the existing conditional use permit
be reviewed and updated to reflect the current operations and conditions.
Furthermore,the Council may wish to consider entering into a lease agreement with
the Archery Club for the use of City land.
•Farming
Farming currently occurs at the Alta Vicente Reserve (Upper Point Vicente I Civic
Center)on the southeastern slopes along the Prickly Pear trail.The farming use is
operated by Mr.Hatano based on a lease agreement with the City that is set to
expire on March 31,2011 unless renewed (this lease agreement includes the
farming at Lower Point Vicente).The City Council approved NCCP allows the
continued operation of any farming activities in the Preserve provided that such
activities are not expanded.
Mr.Hatano attended the July 2,2008 PUMP Committee meeting and briefly
summarized his farming operation.He explained that his business is a family
operation that has been in place since 1947.He gardens an assortment of flowers
on-site including cactus and sunflower.He hopes to continue his farming operation
by passing it onto his son in the future.The Committee pointed out that the lease
only grants Mr.Hatano permission to use City land for farming and that the lease
agreement would have to modified to allow his son to farm the property.
Based on the information presented at the meeting,the Committee is recommending
that the City Council allow Mr.Hatano to continue the agricultural use at the Alta
Vicente Reserve as stated in the existing lease agreement provided that the farming
is sustained in its present location.at a no more level of intensity,and until
restoration can occur.
This motion passed 9-1 with Member James dissenting.
•Bicycle Skills Training Area
At the June 4,2008 PUMP Committee meeting,members of CORBA made a
presentation for a proposal to establish a bike technical skills training area.
Specifically,CORBA is requesting that the City identify a technical skills area for
bicycle riders somewhere in the City that would range between a few hundred
square feet to 2 acres.CORBA's presentation to the PUMP Committee did not
identify a specific location.However,ideally,the location of the skills area would be
adjacent to or near the Preserve.One of the reasons why a specific location was
not identified was so that CORBA could request the City Council to determine
whether such a skills training is acceptable and if so,the Council could identify a
location for such a use on City-owned land,similar to proposed concepts identified in
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the Council adopted Vision Plan.
When this item was presented to the Pump Committee,CORBA was not seeking the
Committee's approval,but rather the Committee's support of the concept with the
understanding that the skills training area would shift some of the technical riding
occurring at the Preserve to an official designated area minimizing potential impacts
to the environment.As noted in the attached July 2,2008 PUMP Committee
meeting minutes,the Committee was unable to adopt a motion that supported this
proposal (see attachment).Ultimately,the motions made that evening did not pass
and the Committee decided not to take action on this request.
At this time,CORBA is requesting the Council's consideration of a bicycle technical
skills training area located at the Gateway Park adjacent to the Portuguese Bend
Reserve (see attachment).The proposed location is outside the Preserve and
could be designed to be isolated from other users with a landscape buffer and
existing topography.CORBA's proposal,if supported by the Council,would be built
and maintained by the bicycle community,similar to other public and private
partnerships.Although it is recognized by members of CORBA that this evening's
agenda may not be the appropriate opportunitY to discuss this request because the
proposed use and location is outside the Preserve and would not be addressed in
the PUMP document,CORBA would like an opportunity to receive some feedback
from the Council on whether such a concept should be further explored and brought
back for consideration at a later time..
2.Provide Staff with direction on additional issues to be addressed in the
final PUMP document.such as nighttime use of the Preserve.annual
reporting requirements.and monitoring and enforcement
After the PUMP Committee concluded its review of the PUMP related issues,some
additional issues were raised by the public to Staff regarding use of the Preserve.Staff
believes these issues should be addressed in the final PUMP document and therefore is
seeking City Council direction on the following issues:
A.Night-Time Use of the Preserve
According to Section 12.16.030 of the Rancho Palos Verdes Municipal Code
(RPVMC),
No person shall be or remain in any park or municipal building at any time between
one hour after sundown and one hour before sunrise,unless attending or
participating in city authorized activities.
In February 2009,the City was informed that CORBA's recreational mountain biking
club (SBMBC)was listing on its website calendar night rides in the Palos Verdes
Nature Preserve (Portuguese Bend Reserve)between 6:30 p.m.and 8:30 p.m.City
Staff contacted the organization informing them of the Municipal Code section that
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PAGE 7
prohibits the use of the Preserve after City park hours and that violators could be
subject to penalties and fines pursuant to Section 1.08 of the RPVMC.In response,
CORBA removed the night rides from its calendar.However,at the same time,City
Staff was also informed that night hikes were being conducted at the Preserve by
the Sierra Club.As a result,organizations such as CORBA are requesting that the
City Council allow limited access in the Preserve during evening hours for
recreational purposes.
The law prohibiting park access at night helps prevent illegal activities and adverse
impacts to nearby residents.While the current law makes no distinction between
individuals and organized groups,the language does allow evening use for City
authorized activities.Thus,if the City Council is inclined to allow established
organizations,such as CORBA and the Sierra Club,to access the Preserve
properties outside of the allowed hours under limited circumstances,Staff
recommends that the City Council adopt a policy that authorizes City Staff to issue
an annual permit to organizations.To do so,Staff recommends that the following
items be addressed in the permit process to ensure minimal impacts to the
surrounding environment and neighboring pro~erties:
•Set a limit of 20 individuals participating in the night-time activity
•Identify where parking will occur
•Prohibit night time activities from occurring after 9:00 p.m.
•Limit an organizations'nighttime use of the Preserve to no more tha'n once a
month
•Identify the specific Reserve location night time activities will occur.
B.PUMP Implementation.Oversight.and Future Review
To ensure that appropriate management practices are put into place,the City's
NCCP devotes an entire chapter (Chapter 6)to "Preserve Management"and
identifies the PVPLC as the designated Habitat Manager for the Preserve.In 2006,
the City Council authorized the PVPLC to begin managing the Preserve for the City.
In this role,the PVPLC is responsible for implementing the NCCP's Preserve
Management Plan.Primarily this involves the preparation of a Habitat Management
Plan,conducting select plant and animal species monitoring,the preparation and
implementation of a Habitat Restoration Plan,and the preparation of other
associated plans and monitoring reports.In addition,pending funding,the PVPLC is
also responsible for implementing the approved Preserve Trails Plan,which involves
basic trail maintenance,sign installation and fencing.It should be noted that a new
operating agreement between the City and the PVPLC that specifically describes the
duties of the PVPLC as preserve Manager is tentatively scheduled to be presented
to the City Council in May 2009.
The final PUMP document will contain a section on plan implementation and future
plan review.It is envisioned that once the final document is approved by the City
and the Resource Agencies,the Plan will be implemented in the following manner:
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•City Staff including Preserve Rangers monitor trail use.PVPLC staff can add
supplemental information on trail use observations.This will be done primarily
via use of the PVPLC's KEEPERS,PVPLC Staff who are in the Preserve
working on projects,and any observations or comments submitted by the
public.
•City Staff will ensure that the approved users and activities of the Preserve,
such as agriculture use,archery use,etc.operate in accordance with the
approved Plan.
•The PVPLC will perform needed trail maintenance such as cutting back
overgrown brush on trails other than fire roads,which is the responsibility of
the City.Likewise,City will oversee any needed trail repairs.
•Pending availability of funding,the City and the PVPLC will proceed with the
closure of unapproved trails.'
•PVPLC Staff and City Staff will pursue-projects involving trail improvements,
trail development,trailhead development,and overlook improvements as
funding becomes available.The funding options include the awarding of
grants,private donations or grants,and/or City Council approved funding
through the City's annual budget process.
It is also envisioned that as the City and the PVPLC Staff implement the Plan as
summarized above,public use issues will be encountered and brought to the City's
and PVPLC's attention by Preserve users and nearby residents.Since the PVPLC
is the City's Preserve Manager,and has been since 2006 (2001 for the Forrestal
Reserve),Staff is proposing that oversight of the PUMP implementation be the
responsibility of the PVPLC.
Specifically,Staff is proposing that the PVPLC,through its present role as Preserve
Manager,serve as the lead organization for an annual workshop related to the
implementation of the PUMP.Similar to how it operates now,the PVPLC would
take appropriate action to address any concerns raised by the public or other
stakeholders by bringing these concerns to the monthly meetings that currently
occur between the City and the PVPLC.As the City's Preserve Manager,PVPLC
may request that the City take a certain action.In addition,Staff proposes that the
PVPLC conduct an annual public workshop to allow Preserve users and nearby
residents to receive information about the Preserve and also to provide input on the
implementation of the PUMP.Staff proposes that the PVPLC collect the public
comments and working together with City Staff,present an annual report to the City
Council that would cover the year's work efforts,improvement activities,and any
recommendations to modify to the PUMP document based on City and PVPLC Staff
observations and/or public comments received at the annual workshop.
If this oversight and review process is acceptable to the City Council and the PVPLC
Board,Staff will incorporate such a review process in the final PUMP Document.As
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such,Staff is seeking Council direction on the proposed oversight and review
process.
3.Receive and file the Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy 6-month
report on trail use at the Portuguese Bend Reserve
On November 20,2007,three months before the PUMP Committee's PTP
recommendations were presented to the City Council,the Council was asked by
members of the public and the PVPLC to consider a temporary closure of portions of
the Portuguese Bend Reserve (then called the Canyons Ecological Reserve)to allow
the habitat to re~establish while the City determines where the official trails are to be
located and the allowed uses for each trail route.The "time~ut"was requested
because the drought of 2007 had a severe impact on the vegetation combined with an
unofficial trails network that was not marked and therefore unclear to trail users where
they were permitted to go.As such,the Council issued a temporary l'time.:.out"on all
areas of the Portuguese Bend reserve with the exception of the use of fire roads.The
temporary "time-out"went into effect on January 3j,2008.
At the Council's February 23,2008 Saturday meeting,one of the many items the
Council was asked to consider was lifting the temporary time-out.Based on input from
City Staff,the PVPLC,and members of the public,the City Council agreed to lift the
temporary "time-out"when the following management tools are implemented:.
•Installation of signs including trail marker signs on all designated trails that
indicate the trail name and the approved trail uses and the installation of signs
at the entrances to the Reserve
•Implementation of an educational program
•Implementation of an enforcement program
•Implementation of speed limits (this was ultimately determined not to be needed
since the recommended speed limit was for only one trail,the Fire Station Trail,
that was designated by the Council as pedestrian/equestrian rather than multi~
purpose).
On June 3,2008,the City Council was informed by City and PVPLC Staff that the
Council directed management tools were in place. As such,the Council authorized the
lifting of the temporary "time~out."The Council also requested that a 6~month review
occur after the re-opening of the closed portions of the Portuguese Bend Reserve.The
6-month review was intended to occur separately from the PVPLC's Annual
Management Report on the entire Preserve and was to focus on the specific items listed
above.On June 6,2008 all trails identified in the PTP were open for public use.
As directed by the Council,the 6-month review for the reporting period between June 6,
2008 and December 6,2008 is attached for the Council's review.The report
summarizes the results of monitoring efforts and implementation of the directed
management tools,trail maintenance,and trail closures for the Portuguese Bend
Reserve.Specifically,the report covers education outreach efforts,the installation and
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maintenance of signs,including trail markers,and the enforcement efforts implemented
by the City through the CORE Deputies.
Based on observations of the PVPLC Staff and information received from the public and
the PVPLC's KEEPERS (Keeping an Extra Eye on the Preserve for Environmental
Review and Stewardship)property reviews,the report concludes that trails are being
used by all regardless of designated uses.However,it appears that the use of
unapproved trails has decreased since the installation of trail markers and
implementation of education efforts.As stated in the report,tTiJt appears that signage,
education,trail closures and law enforcement have been somewhat effective at keeping
trail users on approved trails during the initial six month monitoring period.Though it is
unclear to the exact degree,compliance with the specific use designation of approved
trails (pedestrian,equestrian,and bicyclists)has not yet been realized.JI
In the Report,the PVPLC is recommending that resources be allocated for
enforcement,preferably a Preserve Ranger,which could serve to both educate users
about aspects of the Preserve and enforce current Preserve rules/regulations.As the
Council is aware,at its March 21 st BUdget Policy Workshop,the Council authorized Staff
to create a Preserve Park Ranger position which is consistent with the PVPLC's
recommendation.
The 6-month review was intended to give the City Council,City staff,PVPLC,and the
members of the public a general idea of about the implementation of the'directed
management tools.This report is to be considered separate from the Annual Reports
that the PVPLC submits to the City as managers of the overall Preserve.As such,
since the Council will be reviewing the 2007-2008 Annual report at a future meeting and
that Staff is recommending that future PUMP Implementation reports will be brought to
the Council as part of the PVPLC's management responsibilities,Staff is recommending
that the City Council receive and file the 6-month report on the Portuguese Bend
Reserve.
4.Disband the PUMP Committee and direct Staff to come back at a later date
to recognize the PUMP Committee with City tiles
According to the City's NCCP,the PUMP document is intended to address issues
germane to the Preserve.On June 6,2006,the City Council formally appointed 15
individuals (plus one ex-officio member)as the PUMP Committee and charged the
Committee with the task to assist the City and the PVPLC in the development of the
PUMP document.As reflected in the June 4,2008 meeting minutes (see attachment),
the Committee provided Staff with input on some of the following topics that will be
included in the final PUMP document:
•Background on the NCCP and the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve
•Goals and Objectives of the Master Plan
•Passive Recreational Amenities
o Trailheads
o Parking
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o Bathrooms
o Drinking Fountains
o Fencing
o Lighting
•Land Uses I Activities permitted in the Preserve
•Preserve Trails Plan
o Trail Routes
o Trail Uses
o Trail Names
•Signs
o Sign Types (Kiosk signs,trail markers,etc.)
o Informational signs
o Interpretative Signs
o Public Safety Signs
At this time,the PUMP Committee has completed its tasks (its last meeting Was held on
July 2,2008).As such,Staff is recommending that the City Council officially disband
the PUMP Committee and direct Staff to identify a date to recognize the Committee with
City tiles for their incredible work effort and dedication as volunteers for more than 2
years.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Resource Agency Review
After obtaining City Council direction on the issues identified in this Staff Report,Staff
will complete the draft PUMP document and transmit it to the California Department of
Fish and Game and the U.S.Fish and Wildlife agencies for their review and
concurrence.Staff will then bring back the final PUMP document to the City Council for
final adoption.
PVPLC Annual Report
In accordance with the City approved NCCP,the PVPLC is required to submit an
annual report on its preserve management activities to the City Council on an annual
basis.The most current Annual Report,which covers the period July 1,2007 through
June 30,2008,was transmitted to the City Council on March 11,2009 with the
understanding that the Council would be asked to review and file the Annual Report at
tonight's evening.The review of the Annual Report is not included in the Council's
recommendations for this evening because City Staff and the PVPLC Staff agreed that
it is more suitable for the Council to review the Annual Report at the same meeting that
a new operating agreement is brought to the City Council for consideration.This is so
that the Council can refer to the Annual Report when considering management
responsibilities.Staff anticipates bringing the Annual Report and the new Operating
Agreement to the Council in May 2009.
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Forrestal Management Plan
The Council adopted Forrestal Management Plan is the management document utilized
by the City and the PVPLC for the Forrestal Reserve.As previously mentioned,the
Forrestal Management Plan will eventually be replaced by the PUMP Document.
Preserve Parking at Gateway Park
The City continues to receive requests from members of the public that adequate public
parking needs to be provided for users of the Portuguese Bend Reserve.At this time,
the only available parking for this Reserve is at the end of Crenshaw Boulevard near
Del Cerro Park.The Council adopted Vision Plan identifies improvements at the
Gateway Park that include a pUblic parking lot and trailhead for the Portuguese Bend
Preserve.In addition,the Gateway park improvements have been included in the City's
proposed Capital Improvement Program (C.I.P.).Notwithstanding,the lack of available
funding resources prevents the Gateway Park improvements from being constructed.
Until funding resources become available to construct the 25-acre Gateway Park
improvements either through grants or City funds,Staff is recommending that the City
Council consider opening a portion of the Gateway Park off Palos Verdes Drive South
for a temporary public parking lot.Staff believes that if public parking is made available
at this location,the demand for parking near Del Cerro Park may shift to this proposed
location reducing impacts to the residents adjacent to Del Cerro Park.'
At this time,Staff believes that approximately 15 parking spaces can be provided at this
location with minimal costs.Some of the improvements needed to provide the parking
at this location include the following:
•Realigning the chain link fence
•Installation of signs,including way finding and vehicular directional signs
•Minor grading
If the Council supports providing parking at this location,Staff will develop a specific
work program,including estimated cost figures to improve this site,for consideration at
a future meeting.
Public Notification
In order to ensure that the public is aware of the tonighfs Council meeting,City Staff
took extensive measures to make sure the public has been notified.A notice was
published in the Peninsula News on Thursday,March 19,2009 and nearly 3,000 notices
were mailed to property owners residing within approximately 500-feet of each of the 10
areas that make up the greater Palos Verdes Nature Preserve.Furthermore,a
message was sent to the PUMP and Vision Plan list-serve subscribers.
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Public Comments
At this time,the City has received several comment letters from members of the public
including PUMP Committee members (see attachment).The comment letters are
attached for Council's review.If additional comment letters are received before the April
7th City Council meeting,Staff will provide these comment letters to the Council at the
meeting.
ATTACHMENTS
•PUMP Committee Meeting Minutes
o May 21,2008
oJune 4,2008
o July 2,2008
•Rancho Palos Verdes Paragliding Society Presentation
•Palos Verdes Archery Club Report
o Conditional Use Permit No.10 including the Staff Report
o City Council Resolution No.89-117
•Lease Agreement Between the City and Mr.Hatano
•CORBA Bicycle Skills Training Area Proposal
•PVPLC 6-month Report on Portuguese Bend Reserve
•Public Comment Letters
B-24
ement Realignment (701)Martingale Trail
1)Awarde contract to D&R Office Works,Inc.for the design,purc se,and
installation odular furniture and a new counter at the Planning partment in the
amount of $6 179 and authorized staff to spend up to an additio $821 for possible
extra work or oreseen conditions,for a total authorization of ,000;and,2)
Authorized the yor and City Clerk to execute a contract with &R Office Works,Inc.
rt of Cash Balances for the City of
Report of Cash Balances for the City of
Received and filed the Dece
Rancho Palos Verdes.
Register of Demands
Received and filed the November
Rancho Palos Verdes.
November 2008 Monthly Report of
December 2008 Monthly Rep
Approved the proposed revision to ttl FYO 09 Investment Policy for the City of
Rancho Palos Verdes to enable furthe i rsification of the City's cash portfolio as may
be deemed appropriate.
ADOPTED RESOLU ON NO.2009-22,A RESOLUTIO F THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF RANC PALOS VERDES,AUTHORIZ G THE CITY MANAGER,
THE DEPUTY CITY M~GER,OR THE DIRECTOR F PLANNING,BUILDING AND
CODE ENFORCEMENT THE CITY OF RANCHO ALOS VERDES TO:1)
ACCEPT AN EASEMENT ED DEDICATING TO E CITY REAL PROPERTY
KNOWN AS THE "MARTIN LE TRAIL EASEME "(INSTRUMENT NO.78-168460)
AND 2)EXECUTE A CORRE ONDING QUITC 1M OF A PORTION OF THE TRAIL
EASEMENT TO MR.AND MR GLENN SMIT
ADOPTED RESOLUT N NO.2009-23,A RESOLUTIO OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF RANC 0 PALOS VERDES,ALLOWING RTAIN CLAIMS AND
DEMANDS AND S CIFYING FUNDS FROM WHICH T SAME ARE TO BE PAID.
PAUSE TO C SIDER THE REMAINDER OF THE AGEND~
######
REGULAR NEW BUSINESS:
Palos Verdes Nature Preserve -Public Use Master Plan (PUMP)(1201)
City Council Minutes
April 7,2009
Page 4 of 12 B-25
City Clerk Morreale reported that late correspondence was distributed prior to the
meeting on this item.
Principal Planner Mihranian provided a summary staff report and PowerPoint
presentation regarding the item.
Discussion between staff and the Council included the following issues:clarification that
the proposed bicycle skills area is outside of the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve and
technically outside of the scope of the public hearing presently before Council;the Palos
Verdes Land Conservancy Annual Report;paragliding issues;use of the archery range
by the Archery Club;farming of the City land currently leased by James Hatano,
including the history of farming on the Peninsula;nighttime use of the Nature Preserve
by CORBA and the Sierra Club,including topics of safety and monitoring;a request for
information regarding hours of operation and nighttime use of other municipal and
county parks and State and Federal Preserves;the implementation,oversight and
review of the Public Use Master Plan;and,a method to be written into the Management
Report between the City and the Palos Verdes Land Conservancy to allow for Council
to receive periodic update reports and address issues of concern regarding the
Preserve.-
Mayor Clark invited public participation and requested that speakers be mindful of the
time and avoid repeating the same points or issues raised by another speaker.
Councilman Long pointed out the five areas of consideration that the Council would
appreciate receiving input on which included the following:paragliding,archery,farming,
bicycle skills center,nighttime use of the Preserve,and the issues of concluding the
PUMP Committee.
Additional discussion between Council and staff ensued regarding the following topics:
clarification that expanded trail usage was not being considered as part of this item;the
appropriateness of discussion of items other than those listed on the agenda;whether
the topic of a bicycle skills center located outside of the Preserve should be separately
noticed and agendized;and,the current use of an area of the Preserve as a bicycle
skills center.
Joe Castaldo,Paragliders,Palos Verdes Estates,provided the background on
paragliding in Rancho Palos Verdes,including the training,insurance and certifications
required,regulations and release of liability to the City.He addressed the paragliding
flight path and boundaries,landing areas,environment preservation,and,common
procedures in the event of an emergency.
Discussion between the Council and speaker included the following topics:knowledge
of other Preserves that allow paragliding;enforcement,monitoring,licensing and
permitting;FAA regulations;lateral distances of flights;and landing sites and problems
with landings.
City Council Minutes
April 7,2009
Page 5 of 12 B-26
Hongpyo Lee,Rancho Palos Verdes,expressed concern with and opposition to
paragliding in the area citing issues of safety,liability to the City,privacy,risks to
bystanders and property,and increased usage that could cause damage to the habitat
and environment of the Preserve.
Kurt Loheit,Rancho Palos Verdes,reported that the volunteers working in the Preserve
have done an excellent job;commented on nighttime use of trails in the California State
Parks on a permit basis;and,expressed support for a ranger program for enforcement
in the Preserve and a volunteer program for interpretive involvement with the public.
Discussion between the Council and speaker included the following topics:safety and
enforcement of nighttime uses of the trails on a permit basis;public education and
enforcement issues as part of the Management Plan;and,the use of volunteers for
public education,but without citation authority.
AI Edgerton,Rancho Palos Verdes,expressed support for continuing the archery range
but suggested that there should be a notice posted prohibiting open fires in that area;
recommended that any nighttime use of the Preserve be confined to groups who are
able to self-enforce their group;encouraged adequate bathroom facilities in the
Preserve;and,suggested providing parking near Palos Verdes Drive South for users of
the Preserve.
Ian Bisco,Rancho Palos Verdes,supported keeping the mountain bike trails open in the
Palos Verdes Nature Preserve,requested that more trails be opened to bikers,and that
a bicycle skills center be set up to allow an area for young people to ride and learn
skills.
Melody Colbert,Palos Verdes Peninsula Horsemen's Association (PVPHA)Board
Member,Rolling Hills Estates,stated that she believed equestrians were not
represented on the PUMP Committee on the night the Committee discussed the
proposed uses/activities in the Preserve and expressed concern that paragliding and
horseback riding were not compatible activities.
Harvey Brown,Rancho Palos Verdes,expressed opposition to the paragliders
launching from the proposed site in the Preserve due to issues related to safety,
privacy,noise,liability,traffic,and enforcement.
Simon Kann,Rancho Palos Verdes,stated that the 6-month report showed improved
compliance of trail use as a result of the improved signage;expressed support for
nighttime riding with the use of proper equipment and lighting;commented on a
municipal park in Phoenix,Arizona that allows nighttime rides;and expressed support
for a bicycle skills facility as experienced riders cause less damage to the trails.
City Council Minutes
April 7,2009
Page 6 of 12 B-27
Michael Jost,Hawthorne,expressed support for a bicycle skills center as there was
interest in such an area,which would improve children's access to a safe place to learn
such skills.
Ruth Braswell,Concerned Off-Road Bicyclists Association (CORBA),Rancho Palos
Verdes,recommended marking the closed trails of the Preserve more effectively in
order to keep the public off of closed trails,and suggested analyzing data regarding the
well used trails with the consideration of opening additional trails for separate trail users.
Sheri Hastings,(PVPHA),Rancho Palos Verdes,stated that courtesy and education of
the different trail users was necessary so that the different trail users could understand
each others needs and resolve potential conflicts between horses and bicyclists.She
suggested it would be helpful to have a system of communication to alert groups as to
dates when heavy usage by a particular group was anticipated;discussed the need for
a multi-use parking area and traffic control if there was to be an equestrian center;and,
suggested the bicycle skills area be located near the archery range.
Troy Braswell,CORBA,Rancho Palos Verdes, stated that he was encouraged by the
data gathered to more effectively manage the use of trails in the Preserve;requested
that user locations be more consistently identified,and a distinction between off trail,
closed trail,and unauthorized trail;expressed the need for an informational kiosk to
provide public education;discussed nighttime access and stated that there should be
access for the Sierra Club and CORBA for its weekly nighttime ride;and,noted that the
intent of the bike skills area was to provide an alternative outside of the Preserve for
those wanting to practice and learn bicycle jumps.
Discussion between the Council and the speaker included the use of trail markers,
vandalism of the signs,and communication between the different user groups.
Eva Cicoria,Rancho Palos Verdes,reported that the signs were down again at the
Forrestal Nature Preserve,acknowledged the tremendous efforts made to improve the
condition of the Preserve,but noted that there was continued access and abuse of the
area known as Section C,which is an area bordered by Ailor Cliff and the Ishibashi
Trail.
AI Sattler,Rancho Palos Verdes,referenced a letter from the Sierra Club and reported
significant concerns regarding after-dark use of trails by mountain bikes which could be
particularly detrimental to wildlife.
Martin Howard,Director of Agronomy,Trump National Golf Club,Rancho Palos Verdes,
stated that Trump National has had problems for years with establishing the native
habitat at Lily Point due to the amount of traffic and continued illegal use of the area by
the paragliders.
Discussion between the Council,staff,and the speaker included clarification that the
parking lot was City-owned and the area being used as a launch and landing site by the
City Council Minutes
April 7,2009
Page 7 of 12 B-28
paragliders,Lily Point,was a part of the City-owned West Bluff Preserve area which will
eventually be included in the Natural Community Conservation Planning (NCCP)area.
Brad House,City of Los Angeles Bicycle Advisory Committee,Rolling Hills Estates,
stated that he was concerned with fair access to trails,noted that too many trails have
been closed,and was concerned regarding the lack of access to a bicycle skills area.
Gordon Leon,Equestrian Committee Chair,Rancho Palos Verdes,thanked staff and
acknowledged Principal Planner Mihranian for his work with the PUMP Committee,and
suggested adding trails to help separate some of the users including hikers,bikers and
horsemen.He stated that he supported a bicycle skills park but not at the site for the
planned Equestrian Center,but instead on the ocean side of Palos Verdes Drive South.
RECESS AND RECONVENE:
Mayor Clark called a brief recess from 9:14 P.M.to 9:24 P.M.
Dave Wiggins,Local Conservation Chairman of the South Bay Sierra Club,requested
that the City consider allowing the Sierra Club hikes to continue for one hour after
sunset when that occurs before 8:30 P.M.He noted that if the City would be allowing
access for bicycles,the Sierra Club would be willing to forego access in order to prevent
harm to the Preserve caused by mountain biking.
In response to a question by Councilman Long,Mr.Wiggins stated that he had seen
photographic evidence of small mammals being killed by nighttime mountain biking on
the Forrestal trail and,as a rider,he believed that riding a bike after dark was risky for
the rider and wildlife.
Further discussion between Council and staff included concerns with compatibility of
users,privacy issues,landing problems,licensing and permitting,enforcement,safety
issues,and the fact that paragliding was currently prohibited without express permission
of the City.
Councilmember Long moved,seconded by Mayor Clark,to overturn the PUMP
Committee's recommendation regarding paragliding and to not permit paragliding in the
Preserve,noting that the matter could be brought back to the Council at a later time,if
issues including licensing,enforcement,and problems regarding illegal take-offs and
landings were addressed.
Without objection,Mayor Clark so ordered.
Councilman Long moved,seconded by Mayor Clark,to allow archery to continue to
operate under the existing Conditional Use Permit (CUP).
Without objection,Mayor Clark so ordered.
City Council Minutes
April 7,2009
Page 8 of 12 B-29
Mayor Clark inquired if incorporated in the motion was that the existing CUP should be
reviewed,updated,and brought back to the Council.
Mayor Pro Tem Wolowicz inquired if there would be a consideration of a lease
agreement between the City of Rancho Palos Verdes and the Archery Club for the
continued use of the City land.
Councilman Long moved,seconded by Mayor Clark,to reconsider and restate the
previous motion to allow archery to continue under the existing CUP,with the review of
the CUP,and,consideration of a future lease agreement with the Archery Club.
Without objection,Mayor Clark so ordered.
Councilman Long moved,seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Wolowicz,to adopt the PUMP
recommendation regarding allowing farming to continue on City property until the
current lease expires,the current lessee retires,or until habitat restoration can occur.
Without objection,Mayor Clark so ordered.
Councilman Long moved,seconded by Mayor Pro lem Wolowicz,to bring the topic of a
bicycle skills center back to Council as a separate agenda item with alternative locations
to be considered preferably outside of the Preserve.
Without objection,Mayor Clark so ordered.
Further discussion ensued on possible locations for the bicycle skills center.
Councilman Long moved to adopt the staff recommendation to allow nighttime use of
the Preserve to end by 9:00 P.M.by different types of users,subject to it being for group
use,with various permits and regulations as specified by staff.
Mayor Clark indicated that he could not support nighttime use of the Preserve citing
concerns with habitat damage.
Mayor Pro Tem Wolowicz expressed concerns with safety and damage to the
environment and noted he desired more information on the matter and the manner in
which other parks have dealt with the topic of nighttime use.
Councilman Long withdrew his original motion due to a lack of support.
Councilman Long moved,seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Wolowicz,to allow nighttime
use of the Preserve for hikers only with the limitations as established by staff and
specifics of the permitting process to be brought back to Council for approval.
Additional discussion ensued between the Council and staff regarding the following
topics pertaining to nighttime use:safety concerns;limitations on the number of
City Council Minutes
April 7,2009
Page 9 of 12 B-30
individuals in the group and the number of times a group can use the Preserve;parking
and time restrictions;identification of nighttime activities;enforcement issues and
signage;and,concern with negative impacts of human intervention in the Preserve after
dark.
The motion passed on the following roll call vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Long and Wolowicz
Mayor Clark
Gardiner and Stern
Council and staff discussed revisiting the concept of a reconstituted PUMP Committee;
expansion of trails use;installing signage that can withstand abuse;installation of an
informational kiosk;and,revisions to the Trails Plan.
Mayor Clark moved,seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Wolowicz,to adopt the staff
recommendation to sunset the PUMP Committee and recognize the Committee
Members for their service.
Without objection,Mayor Clark so ordered.
Councilman Long moved,seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Wolowicz,to direct staff to
return with a plan to provide alternatives as a result of the disbanding of the PUMP
Committee.
Without objection,Mayor Clark so ordered.
Mayor Clark moved,seconded by Councilman Long,to receive and file the Palos
Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy 6-month report on trail use at the Portuguese
Bend Reserve.
Without objection,Mayor Clark so ordered.
Palos Verdes Driv South·Metro Bikeway Grant
Mayor Pro Tem Wolo z moved,seconded b ouncilman Long,to waive the staff
report and authorize the ayor and City Cle 0 execute the Letter of Agreement (LOA)
with the Los Angeles Cou Metropolita ansportation Authority (METRO)for the
Bike Compatible Roadway etyand age on Palos Verdes Drive South,Project
ID #F1506,TIP #LAF1506.
.item demonstrates that the City is taking steps to
City and improve the ability of motorists and
ghfare.
The motion carried on e following roll call
City Council Minutes
April 7,2009
Page 10 of 12 B-31
Night Hikes Research Matrix
Uodated Mav 2010
NIT Use Staff-led Unsupervised
Organization/Facility Prohibited NIT Use NIT Use Charge Comments
George F.Canyon Nature Center
1 (City of Rolling Hills Estates &PVPLC)X X Approximately 2 docent-led hikes take place each month.
They lack the resources to monitor nighttime activity and
Arroyo Hondo Preserve limit activity to daylight for the well-being of the habitat and
2 (Land Trust for Santa Barbara County -780 ac.)X wildlife.
Free docent and staff-led night hikes.They have had past
incidences of homeless camps,kids drinking,and nighttime
Irvine Ranch use of RTVs and bikes.They have a very effective open
3 (City of Irvine -50,000 ac.)X space patrol consisting of retired Irvine police officers.
Upper Newport Bay Preserve
4 (City of Newport Beach -1,000 ac.)X One free staff-led night hike is offered per month.
Point Lobos State Reserve Nighttime activity prohibited because park is not lit,and
5 (Carmel-554 ac.)X nighttime activity would disturb nocturnal wildlife.
Puente Hills Landfill
6 (Native Habitat Preservation Authority -3,860 ac.)X Nighttime use is not allowed.
White Point Nature Preserve
7 (City of Los Angeles Nature -102 ac.)X Nighttime use is not allowed.
Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve and Beach Nighttime activity prohibited to preserve the wildlife and
8 (La Jolla -2,000 ac.)X I habitat.
Upper Las Virgenes Canyon Open Space Preserve Nighttime activity prohibited for public safety and to limit
9 (Ventura County -2,900 ac.)X disturbance of wildlife.
Ballona Wetlands They do not yet allow nighttime activity,but are looking to
10 (Playa Del Rey -600 ac.)X offer staff-led night hikes in the future.
2 staff-led nighthikes are offered each month.Night hikes
EI Dorado Nature Center limted to minimize disturbance to wildlife and to properly
11 (City of Long Beach -106 ac.)X X manage resources.
Unsupervised groups are required to report group sizes and
specific times and locations of requested activity.In most
Santa Monica Mountains Recreational Area cases,they only charge for permits for groups >50 to
12 (National Park -153,000 ac.)X X (by permit)X recover staff costs.
Unsupervised groups are required to report group sizes and
specific times and locations of requested activity.Activity is
Mission Trails Regional Park restricted to main trail because of its width and even terrain
13 (City of San Diego -5,800 ac.)X X (by permit)X for public safety and for well-being of wildlife and habitat.
B-32
Unsupervised nighthikes are allowed during park operating
Griffith Park hours.Rangers staff Griffith Park until 10:30 p.m.Activity
14 (City of Los Angeles -4,000 ac.)X X is not allowed after 10:30 p.m.
*NIT -Nighttime
B-33
SIERRA
'CLUB
FOllNDFn 11192
April 20,2010
P.O.Box 2464
PVP,CA 90278
Mr.Bill Gerstner
City Planning Commission
Rancho Palos Verdes
30940 Hawthorne Boulevard
Rancho Palos Verdes,CA 90275
Sierra Club-Angeles Chilpter
Palos Verdes/South Bay Group
\
1
Re:Questions about Hiking in the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve
Dear Mr.Gerstner,
This letter addresses questions about Sierra Club hiking activities in the Palos Verdes
Nature Preserve that you suggested to Barry Bonnickson in your email to him dated
March 29,20]O.The PV ·SB Sierra Club is providing the following information
regarding our evening (whether truly'''nighttime''depends on time of year)hikes on the
Palos Verdes Peninsula.Additional information,can be provided in writing or verbally
upon request.
Start and finish times
Conditioning hikes (Monday,Tuesday and Thursday)start promptly at 6:30 pm and end
at about 8:30 pm.There is some variation since groups hike different routes and may
arrive back a few minutes before or after 8:30.These are not "night hikes,"but hikes that
are at the same time all year around.For some of the year they extend after dark.
Moonlight hikes (one per montll,and one hiking group)begin at 7:30 and normally end
by 9 pm.
Start and finish locations (par~ing)
Monday hikes start at the end of Crenshaw,just past Del Cerro Park.Parking is generally
along Crenshaw Boulevard.This is the smallest of our conditioning hikes.All hikes
(Monday,Tuesday,Thursday and Moonlight)are round trip and end where they start.
Tuesday conditioning hikes start in San Pedro,at 8th Street and AverilJ Avenue.Parking
is in commercial street locations,which are readily available in tile evenings.
Questions about Hiking in the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve
Palos Verdes-South Bay Group Angeles Chapter Sierra Club
April 20,2010
Page 1
B-34
1
Thursday conditioning hikes start at Peninsula Center,near the Rite Aid drug store.
Parking is in the center's pirrking lot and is readily available in that area at that time.
Moonlight hikes occur on the last Friday before the full moon once a month on average.
Starting locations vary.Typical ones are:
•Near Lunada Bay in PV Estates
•Near Neptune's Fountain at Malaga Cove in PV Estates
•Rolling Hills Estates City Hall
•GeorgeffNature Center
•Friendship Park in San Pedro (into the Ocean Trails Reserve)
•At Portuguese Bend Reserve in RPV
All these locations have ample parking in lots or on streets
Segregation into groups (type,how many,how grouped (speed»
Monday hikes can be one group or two,with participants self-segregated by speed.
Tuesday hikes are similarly organized with up to three groups (slow,moderate and fast)
Thursday hikes have the most groups,often as many as five in the summer months.
Group speeds are slow,slow moderate,moderate,fast moderate,and fast.
How many people (total and each group)
Groups are largest in the summer months and on Thursdays.Ten participants are typical
of the individual groups.Group size seldom exceeds 30.If a group is larger than 30 we
will split it into two groups on occasion;but this is generally during times when the hikes
end within one hour after sunset and are not really "nighttime hikes"by the City's
definition.During the winter (darker)months,group sizes are smaller;twenty is typically
a large group.The smaller the group size,the more convenient it is for the leader to keep
track of the participants.
Moonlight hikes can be large or small since they occur less often and at the start of a
weekend.Maximum group size is 20-30 but winter groups are smaller.
Questions about Hiking in the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve
Palos Verdes-South Bay Group Angeles Chapter Siena Club
April 20,2010
Page 2
B-35
Typical Hike Routes
Some of OUJ:'conditioning and moonlight hikes,like those that start at Del Cerro Park,
may proceed directly into the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve.However,it is more
common for our hikes to traverse other areas and then enter and leave Preserve
properties.Some hikes enter PVNP and some do not.Generally,they are not hikes OF
the preserve or AT the Preserve,but hikes that for some portion go through the Preserve.
What follows is a detailed description of one example hike,which illustrates using a few
trails in the Preserve:
San Pedro to Ocean Trails Reserve and bilck (only step 8 Is In the Reserve)
1.Meet at 8th St.and Av~rill Ave.in San Pedro
2.Take Weymouth Ave to 9th St and turn west
3.Proceed on 9th St.,across Western,to Friendship Park Dr.
4.Take Frlendshi~Park Dr.to cross Friendship Park to Cumbre Dr.
S.Proceed west on Cumbre Dr.to Mermaid Dr.
6.Take Mermaid Dr.south to 25t~St.
7.Go west on 25 th St.to north-east corner of Ocean Trails Reserve
8.Take Shoreline Park,Gnatcatcher,and Catalina trails to outside the clubhouse at the
Trump National Golf Course
9.Go north on Ocean Trails Dr.to Palos Verdes Dr.South
10.Go east on Palos Verdes Dr.South to 25 th Street to Mermaid Dr.
11.North on Mermaid to Baleria Dr.and then go east
12.At South Anchovy Ave,dog leg to Vallecito Dr.,then east to Pelican Ave.
13.Proceed north on Pelican Ave.to Cumbre Dr.
14.Take the Elks Lodge entry road 100 yards to where it turns east
15.Proceed north into Friendship Park to the maintenance road that leads to Friendship
Park Dr.
16.Do steps 3,2,and 1 in reverse to return to the starting location
Questions about Hiking in the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve
Palos Verdes-South Bay Group Angeles Chapter Sierra Club
April 20,2010
Page 3
B-36
All PVNP Trails Used in Conditioning and Moonlight Hikes
What follows are lists of trails used in our conditioning and moonlight hikes for each of
the Reserve properties that those hikes enter.Most of the trail names are from City
maps.I
P B dRortugueseeneserve -
Trail Monday Tuesday Thursday Moonliaht
Burma Road X X X
Peppertree X .'X .,X
Peacock Flats X X X,
Firestation X X X
Garden"X X
Landslide Scarp X X
Grapevine X ,.X
Ishibashi X X
Allor X X
Eagle's Nest X X
Kubota X X
Water Tank X X
2ReFTuJpperllorumserve
Trail Monday Tuesday Thursday Moonlieht
Rattlesnake X X
Torrs X X
Kelvin Canyon X X
Gary's Gulch X X
Vanderlip Canyon X X -Annie's X X
Cantering X X
Jack's Hal -X X
McBride X X
Three Sisters Reserve
Trail Monday Tuesday Thursday Moonlbtht
Barkentine X X
McCarrell Canyon -X X
1 hrce Sislers ---:X X
Vista del Norte Reserve
Trail Monday Tuesday Thursday MoonJieht
Vista del Norte Trail X
Indian Peak Loop X
I See hltp:/lwww.palosverdes.com/rpv/planninglplanning-zonimuFINAL-APP ROVED·PTP.pdf.
1 See the enclosure:Upper Filiorum Trail Map
Questions about Hiking in the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve April 20,2010
Palos Verdes-South Bay Group Angeles Chapter Sierra Club Page 4
B-37
San Ramon Reserve
Trail Monday Tuesday Thursday Moonlie:ht
Marymount X
Switchback ,X .,.
Forrestal Reserve
Trail Monday Tuesday Thursday Moontil!ht
Mariposa .X
Basalt X
Quarry X
Pirate X
CoolhelghlS X
Cristo Que Viento X
Flying Mane X
Forrestal X
Ocean Trails Reserve
Trail Monday .Tuesday Thursday Moonlight
East Boundary X
Shoreline Park X
Sagebrush Walk X
Southshore Coastal X
Gnatcatcher X
Coastal Switchback X
Catalina X
Dudleya X
Sunrise X
Training and Certification of Hike Leaders
All Palos Verdes -South Bay (PV-SB)hikes are led by certified leaders,in accordance
with national and chapter Sjerra CI\lh policy.Initial certification involves:
•Attend a Leadership Training Seminar,one-day at an area in L.A.or Orange
C,ounty.Topics from a recent seminar include:
o Co.nservation (including "Leave No Trace"principles)
o Qualities of Leadership
o First Aid
o $afety (including judgment principles)
o Planning and Conducting Outings
o Scenarios (group exercise in solving "what if"field situations)
o Administration .
•Taking and passing Standard First Aid and CPR training
•Successfully leading an outing,this is evaluated by a leader with at least two
years of experience.
All leaders must be Club members.The above training and First Aid must be refreshed
every four years per national Sierra Club policy.
Leadership training within the Angeles Chapter of the Sierra Club offers four successive
levels of certification.The lowest level is sufficient for conditioning and moonlight hikes.
Questions about Hiking in the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve
Palos Verdes-South Bay Group Angeles Chapter Sierra Club
April 20,2010
PageS
B-38
The Sierra Club encourages existing leaders to improve their skills by achieving higher
levers of certification.
However,it's not enough to be a certified Sierra Club leader.Because our hikes use the
trails and roads of Palos Verdes,those who lead must have been participants long enough
that they know the routes available (e.g.,which trails are open for hiking)and the various
options for building a route which stays within those constraints and gets the group back
to the starting point at the scheduled time.As a result,leaders of our hikes are very
familiar with the terrain and trails.
Our Leaders for Conditioning and Moonlight Hikes
Name
Barry Bonnickson
Bill Lavoie
Brooks Chadwick
Dave Hixson
Doric Chadwick
Jacaues Monier
lerry1'raaer
lC)yce Wbite
Judy Shane
Keith Martin
Linda Werk
LoisVilc
Michael Coble
TonyTruJl
Phone
310..519.0778
310.318..8123
310·676·8848
310·S44·06()0
310.316·7843
310-982·6773
310-319·1111
310·530·1268
310·676-6171
310·316·7843
3 J0-3789743"
310·326-8874
Cell Phone
N/A
?
?
?
310481-5203
?
?
?
310-683·9224
?
'I
?
?
Note that the infonnation about leader cell phones is incomplete at this time.See the
additional infonnation about cell phones in the following Outing Rules section.
Palos Verdes-South Bay Group Policy on Hiking in Palos Verdes
The Sierra Club supports hiking by Sierra Club hiking groups on all.open hiking trails on
public land on the Palos Verdes peninsula,between one hour before sunrise and 10 pm
local time.Trails which a municipality or other govenunent agency has closed shall not
be used by the Sierra Club for hiking.All such hikes will be led by Sierra Club certified
leaders who will be knowledgeable of and supportive of environment81 restrictions and
goals in the areas in which we hike.Recognizing the damage that off-trail hiking can do
to habitat,all hikers should stay on designated'trails,that is not hike "cross country"nor
"cut switchbacks".
Outings Rules
We have very extensive national Club outings policies and guidelmes;a list of policy and
guideline titles would be about a page long and can be provided if desired. These are
augmented by Angeles Chapter Rules of Conduct and a Safety Policy administered by the
Safety Committee.These include requirements to sign waivers and report incidents,and
Questions about Hiking in the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve April 20,2010
Palos Verdes-South Bay Group Angeles Chapter Sierra Club Page 6
B-39
investigative processes for reported incidents.The Rules of Conduct include the
following pertinent paragraphs:
•Travel Procedures:Participants are to remain with the group unless the leader
gives pennission to leave,adhere to routes designated by the leader,refrain from
"short cutting rt switchbacks on trails,and remain behind the leader and ahead of
the trail sweep.
•Leave No Trace:The Sierra Club supports leave no trace principles,including
mitlimizing the environmental impact hiking,disposing of waste properly or
packing it out,leaving natural objects as you find them,respecting wildlife,and
being courteous to other visitors.
•Compliance with Laws and Regulations:Sierra Club outings are conducted in
compliance with applicable laws and regulations,including requirements for entry
permits,campfire restrictions,campsite location restrictions,waste handling rules,
parking restrictions,and etcetera.Rangers and o:ther law enforcement personnel
are to be treated with respect.
•Cell Phones:Both leaders and participants 8:fe encouraged (but not required)to
carry cell phones because they may be a useful resource in an emergency.
Inappropriate or excessive use of cell phones for non-emergency communications
can be annoying to participants.Outing leaders therefore have the authority to
restrict or regulate the use of cell phones.
We also encourage carrying flashlights when hiking at night via this statement in the trip
write-up we publish:"Bring red lens flashlight.":rhe write-up also says "Rain Cancels",
Waiver (who signs and what does it say)
All hikers,for every outing,must sign the waiver.A copy of the waiver is enclosed.
rr:t-~
Kent Schwitkis,Chairman
Palos Verdes-South Bay Group Angeles Chapter Sierra Club
Encs.:1)Sien'a Club PV-SB Letter to RPV Recreation &Parks Department (3/29/2010)
2)Upper Filiorum Trail Map
3)Sierra Club Sign-in Sheet and Liability Waiver
Questions about Hiking in the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve
Palos Verdes-South Bay Group Angeles Chapter Sierra Club
April 20,2010
Page 7
B-40
SIERRA
CLU"B
l'OllNI)EI)11192
M~rch 29,2010
P.O.Box 2464
PVP,CA 9Q278
Sierra Clulr-Angeles Chapter
Palos Verdes/South Bay Group
Mr.TomOdom
Recr~~ti"on anq pfWks Dpp.~f~~nt
...RapcllQ J>~los Verqes
30940 Hawthorne Boulevard
R~hcho Palos Verdes,CA 90275
Re:Eveniqg Hiking in the PaJos Verdes Nature Preserve
Dear Mr.Odom,
This letter supl':lrsedes our previous letter on nighttime hiking,dated March 10,20 IO.
At the April 6,2010 RPV City Council Meeting,nighttime use ofthe trails ofthe Palos
Verdes Nature Preserve (PVNP)wilt be-discussed.This letter should be part ofthat
discussion.
In recent conyersations,the Recreationa,rd Parks Dep~rtment (RPD)has shown its
willingness to address Sierra Club (SC)requests for nighttime hiking in the Portuguese
Bend Reserve (PBR).We.appreciate the c()n~ideration RPD has shown to Sierra Club
requests.However,prior to viewing a drafforthe Memorandum from the RPD on
administration of nighttime hiking,we were .\Inder the impressiqn that the focus of the
City concerning njghttime hiking was restricted ~()discussion of the Portuguese Bend
Reserve (PBR).Now it appears that while allowing permitted hiking in the PBR,the
remainder of the PVNP.would be offlimits.We are requesting access to trails throughout
the PVNP for our nighttime conditioning hikes.
The remainder of this letter explores the differences between past activities of the Palos
Verdes-South Bay (PV-SB)Group of the Sierra Club (SC)an~the positions taken in the
City Council Minutes from April 7,2009..
City Council Minutes,Sierra Club PV -SB Group Requests
417/2009
City issued permits SC evening Conditioning Hikes occur every week of the year.
Thus,a permanent or yearly permit for recurring outings wiIJ
be most convenient for both parties.
Evening Hiking in the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve
Palos Verdes-South Bay Group Angeles Chapter Sierra Club
March 29,2010
Page I
B-41
City Council Minutes,
4n12009
Preservation of flora
adjacent to trails
"Pennitted groups can
provide outings no
more that once a month
for groups of no more
than 20 participants
ControlofpubJic
nuisance
Limit trail usage to
Bynna Road within the
PBR.
Limit access for
Public Safety
Sierra Club PV-SB Group Requests
We respect the environment.Hiking on narrow trails is always
single file.It takes no more space to hike at night than it does
during the day.
We ask for 30 hikes a month with up to 30 participants per
hike.Three evenings a week,people assemble near Del·Cerro
Park,at Peninsula Center,and in San Pedro to commence one
or more of our hikes to varioUs locations on and about the
Peninsula.The path taken in each hike is at the discretion of
the hike leader.Many ofthese hikes are likely to traverse trails
ofthe PVNP,and most hiking'srollPIHir~smaller than 20
participants (we don't want to turn peof1le aWay ifparticipation
occS$ionallv soikes).i .•.
Sierra Club members have been participating in evening hikes
in .this area.§ince 1971.\\lith.~o record of pyblic cQlJlplaint.We
respe6tthe fauna'and flora,and obey trail usage signs.Our
participants do not litter,but rather pick up litter left by other
trail users..
The rOtlte taken by a group should~eat the discretion of that
Leader ofthat group.];.ocalSCl:.eadeis.arefamiIiar with the
trail networkthroush~~tthe PYNP andlmow wbichtrails are
safe fordaylightandeyeming ysage.These same Leaders use
their Imowledge,as wen as considerations of current trail
conditions and available evening lighting to choose appropriate
routes,which·aJ:esafe without being repetitive.
We have an iriipe~Table recofifofsafety with extremely few
incidents overthe.l'ast 40 years and thousands of hikes.~
SC Leader is trai~ed i~First Aid and'has experience •leading
groups and alertiJlg jjhrticipants to potential.dangers.All hike
participants are required to sign a SC fonnexplaining the .
responsibilities of all parties.Participarl~are encouraged to
wear appropriate trail footwear,and employ red flashlights to
illuminate the trail without dilating the pupils oftheir eyes to
maximize nighttime vision
It is our hope that the RPV City Council will view these evening outings of the Sierra
Club as a positive contribution to the public enjoyment the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve.
Kent Schwitkis,Chairman
Palos Verdes-South Bay Group Angeles Chapter Sierra Club
Evening Hiking in the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve
Palos Verdes-South Bay Group Angeles Chapter Sierra Club
March 29,2010
Page 2
B-42
B-43
Sign4n SheefandLiability Waiver
Outing:I Date($):IPage of
Leader:[AssiStantL.eader:
Sign-In Sheet &Acknowledgment of Outing Membe"Respon$ibilityIExpr~A$$umptionofR;$k,al1irRe/ea$eof Liafjility
I understand that during my participation in this Sierra Club Outing,J may be exposed 10 a variety of hazardsandrisks,fofElseenoruntoreseen,which are
inherent in each Outing and cannot be eliminated without destroying the unique charaeteroftheQuting.Theseinherentrisksinclude,but are not limited to.the
dangers of serious personal injury,property damage,anddeath("JnjuriesandOamages~)frOmexposuretothehazardsoftravetandthe Sierra Club has not
tried to contradict or minimize my understanding of these.risks.·lknowthatJnjuries and9amages can occur by natural causes or activities of other persons,
animals,trip members.trip leaders and assistants or third parties,eitheras a resultofnegtigence or because ofother reasons.I understand that risks of such
Injuries and Damages are involved in adventure travel such as Sierra Clui:tQutings and 1 appreciate thaHmay have to exercise eXtra care for my own person
and for others around me in the face of such hazards.I furtherundef$tand thaton this Outing there may not be rescue or medical facilities or expertise
necessary to deal with the Injuries and Damages to which I may be exposed.
In consideration for my acceptance as a participant on this Outing,and the services and amenities to be provided by the Sierra Club in connection with the
Outing,I confirm my understanding that:
• I have read any rules·and conditions applicable to·the Outing made available to me;I will pay any costs and fees for the Outing;and I acknowledge my
participation is at thediseretion of the leader.
•The Outing officially begins and ends at the location(s)designatedbytheSierra.Olub.The Outing doesnotincludecarpooling,transportation,or transit to
and from the Outing,and I am personally responsible for all risks associated with this travel.This does notapply to transportation provided by the Sierra
Olub dUring the Outing..
•If I decide to leave early·and·not to complete the Outing as planned,lassurnealtriSksinherentin.mydecisiontoleave.andwaivealLllability against the
Sierra Olub arising from that decision.Likewise,iftheleaderhasconclUdedtheOlJtjng,and.ldecidetogoforwardwithoutthe leader,I assume all risks
inherent in my decision to go forward and waiveall.liability againstthe Sierra Club arising from that decision.
•ThIS Agreement is intended to be as broad and/nclusiveas isperrnitledbylaw,lfanyprovision or anypartofanyiprovisionofthis Agreement is hel(j to be
invalid or legally unenforceable for any reason,theremainderofthi~Agreel1ll;tntshaln9tbE!13ffectedtherebyandshaltremainvalid .and fullyenforceabJe.
•To the fullest extent allowed by law.I agree to WAIVE,DISCHARGECLAIMS,ANDREL.EASEc·FROMLIABIUTYtheSlerraOIUb,its officers,directors,
employees,agents,and leaders from any and all liability on accountof,orinanywayresulting.fromlnjuriesandDarnageS,even ifcaustad by negligence
of the Sierra Olub its officers,directors,employees,agents,andleaders,in anyway connected with this Outing,.I further agree to HOLD HARMLESS the
Sierra Club,its officers,directors,employees,agenls,andleadersfromanyclaims,damages,injuries orlosses caused by my own negligence while a
participant on the outing,I understand and·intend that this assumption ofrisk·and .release is binding •upon my heirs,·executors,administrators and assigns,
and includes any minors accompanying me on the Outing.
• I have read this document in its entirety and I freely and voluntarily assume all risks ofsuchlnjuries and Damages and'notwithslandingsuch risks,I agree to
participate in the Outing,
Revised:March 18•.2002
Name Signature EarlySign-out
·,f a minor is going on the triP.the minor's guardian must sign on the minor's behalf.B-44
Sign...in Sheet and.Liability Waiver
I have read the attached Sign-In Sheet &Acknowledgment of Outing Member Responsibility,Express Assumption of Risk,and Release of Liability in its
entirety and I freely and voluntarily assume all risks of such Injuries and Damages and notwithstanding such risks,I agree to participate in the Outing.
Name Signature Early Sign-Out
.',
"=:"
~.;.
Revised:March 18,2002 "If a minor is going on the trip,the minol's guardian must sign on the minol's behalf.
B-45
Sl.ERRA
CLUB
fOUNlHI'Il192
Ivbgch 29,2010
P.O.Bp~24ti4
PVP,CA 90;27$,
Sierra Club-Angeles Chapter
Palos Verde~/South Bay Group
Mr.ToroOdom
Recre~tlQn anq J?~ks D~~Jitp')~nt.
j Jt8pQh,Q }>~Ios Verges
30940 Hawthorne Boulevard
Rancho Palos Veraes,CA 90275-<:f""."'".:',"."':' ,
Re:EvenillgHiking in the Pafq.Verdes Nature Preserve
DearMr.OOom,
This lettersup'~r~edes purpr~vious Jetter on nighttime hiking,dated March 1O~2010.
Atthe April6,2010RJ'V City Couf)cUM#~tihg,nighttime use ofthe trails ofthe Palos
Verdes NllturePreserve (PVNP)will be discussed.Tbisletter should be part of that
discussion.
J.n fecentconXersations,the'Recr~ation~nd ?arksRe~~rqn.~nt (RPD)'has sbown its
wJllill,gtl!sstoadqress Sierta.,Club (SPJre~w~stsJotnjgbttbne hiking in the Portuguese
Behd Reserve(P:aR).",e,apprecia.tethec()Q~i~eratiQn RPD~asshown to Sierra Club
requests.However,priorto viewing.a dra.J1:9t-t,he Memorandurnfrom theRPD on
administration ofnighttirn.e hiking,we were'MPder th,e bppressiQn that tfie focus of the
City cpncf.'rnipg ..n.ightti111e hiking was restri.cted~C),discussion ofthe Portuguese Bend
Reserve (P:aR).NoW it appears that whileallowiIi~permitted hiking.in the PBR,the
remainder ofthe PV'I~J?,would be offFmits.We are requesting access to trails throughout
the PVNP for our nighttime conditioning hikes.
The remainder of this letter e"plores ~he diffrr~nces between past activit~~s of the Palos
Verdes-South Bay (PV-SB)Qroup of the ~ierra Club (SC)ang tre positions taken in the
City Council Minutes from April 7,2009..
City Council Minutes,
4/7/2009
City issued permits
Sierra Club PV-SB Group Requests
SC evening Conditioning Hikes occur every week ofthe year.
Thus,a permanent or yearly permit for recurring outings will
be most convenient for both parties.
Evening Hiking in the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve
Palos Verdes-South Bay Group Angeles Chapter Sierra Club
March 29,2010
Page 1
B-46
CitY Councill\f,inUfes,'Sierr.a Club :PV..SB GronpRequests
4/7/2009
Preservation of flam .'
adjacent to trails
.ent Schwitkis,Chairman
Palos Verdes-South Bay Group Angeles Chapter Sierra Club
Evening Hiking in the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve
Palos Verdes-South Bay Group Angeles Chapter Sierra Club
March 29,2010
Page 2
B-47
SIERRA
CLUB
fOUNDED 11192
March 10,2010
P.O.Box 2464
PVP,CA 90278
Sierra Club-Angeles Chapter
;Palos Verdes/South Bay Group
Mr.Tom'Oddm
Recreation and Parks Department
RahchoPalos Verdes
30940 Hawthorne Boulevard
Rancho Palos Verdes,CA 90275
Re:Evening Hiking in the Portuguese Be~d Reserve
Dear Mr.Odom,
At the April 7,2009 RPV City Council Meeting,nighttime.use ofthe trails ofthe
Portuguese Bend Reserve (PBR)was discussed.A conversation on February 26,2010
between Barry Bonnickson and Torq Odom and Katie Howe ofthe City Parks and
Recreation Department explored the differences between past activities of the Palos
Verdes,.,.south Bay€PV-SB)Group·ofthe Sierra Club (SC)and the management proposal
being prepared for Council consideration.The purpose of this letter is to highlight those
differences for further Council consideration.
.-.
Parks &Recreation Proposals .,Sierra ClubPV-SBGroupReauests
Permitted groups can provide outings nb Every Monday and Thursday evenings
more that once a month for groups of no people assemble near Del Cerro Park and at
more than 20 participants Peninsula Center to commence one or more
of our hikes to various locations on and
about the peninsula.The path taken in each
hike is at the discretion ofthe hike leader.
Only a few ofthese hikes.a.re likely to
traverse the PBR.However,we ask for
minimum of eight hikes a month with up
to 30 participants per hike (most hikes will
be much smaller but we don't want to tum
people away).
Evening Hiking in the Portuguese Bend Reserve
Palos Verdes-South Bay Group Angeles Chapter Sierra Club
March 10,2010
Page 1
B-48
Parks &Recreation ProPQsals Sierra'Glub PV-8B Group Requests
Control ofpublic nuisance Sierra Club members have been
participating in evening hikes in this area
sinoe 1971 with no record ofpilblic
complaint (unlike evening bicycle usage).
We respect the fauna,flora,and follow
trail usage signs.Often our partioip8Pts
pickup litter left by other trait users.,
Limit trail usage to Burma Road Local SC Leaders are familiar with the trail
network within the Reserve and know
which trails are safe for everdug usage.
These same Leaders have usedth,~se trails
during daylight hours.The path <taken by
the group should be atthe discvetionofthe
Leader.Current trail conditions and
available evening lighting contribute to the
choice of appropriate rQllt~which are safe
without being repetitive.
Limit aocess for Public Safety Each SC Leader is trained in First Aid and
has experience leading groups and alerting
,partioipants to potential dangers.All hike
participants are required to sign a SC form
explaining the responsibilities of all parties.
P.at1ieipants employ red or green flashlights
toiIIuminate the trail condition without
dilating the pupils oftheir eyes.
Partioipants are encouraged to wear
appropriate trail footwear.
Preservatioli oftlora adjacent to trails We respect the environment.Hiking on
narrow trails is always single file.It takes
no more space to hike at night than it does
.,during the day .
City issued permits SC Conditioning Hikes ooeur every week
of the year.Thus,a permanent permit for
reourring outings will be most convenient
I for both parties.
It is our hope that the RPV City Council wiIl view these evening outings ofthe Sierra
Club as a positive contribution to the public enjoyment the Portuguese Bend Reserve.
Sincerely,
lfut~
Kent Schwitkis,Chairman
Palos Verdes-South Bay Group Angeles Chapter Sierra Club
Evening Hiking in the Portuguese Bend Reserve
Palos Verdes-South Bay Group Angeles Chapter Sierra Club
March 10,2010
Page 2
B-49
MEMORANDUM
TO:
FROM:
DATE:
HONORABLE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF CITY COUN
TOM ODOM,INTERIM DIRECTOR,RECREATION
MAY 18,2010
SUBJECT:
REVIEWED:
PALOS VERDES NATURE PRESERVE NIGHTTIME USE
CAROLYN LEHR,CITY MANAGER C!9-
Staff Coordinator:Katie Howe,Administrative Analyst II ~
RECOMMENDATION
Approve nighttime use of the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve (Preserve)for hikers
subject to regulations detailed in this report.
BACKGROUND
After discussions related to the PUMP document at its April 7,2009 meeting,the City
Council decided to allow night hiking in the Preserve and directed staff to bring back a
permitting process for Council approval with the following guidelines:
•Limit nighttime activity to hiking
•Set a limit of 20 individuals participating in the nighttime activity
•Identify where parking will occur
•Prohibit nighttime activities from occurring after 9:00 p.m.
•Limit nighttime use of the Preserve to one hike per month
•Identify the specific reserve location nighttime activities will occur
In addition to these regulations,Council directed staff to consider participant and
community safety,enforcement,and negative impacts to the Preserve.
DISCUSSION
Based on research,Council direction,input from the Wildlife Resource Agencies (U.S.
Fish and Wildlife and the California Department of Fish and Game),and current
practices,staff has developed a night hike permitting process for consideration by the
City Council.The proposed permit process takes into account public enjoyment of and
access to the Preserve,hiker and community safety,City resources for program
management,neighboring resident privacy,protection of Preserve habitat and wildlife,
and input from groups interested in night hiking.
C-1
Palos Verdes Nature Preserve Nighttime Use
May 18,2010
Page 2
Staff recommends that the City implement a night hike permitting process for an initial
trial period of 6 months,after which staff will bring any necessary revisions back to
Council for approval.Night hike permits will be issued as early as June 2010 through
the Recreation and Parks Department.The staff recommended nighttime use
regulations are listed in Attachment A.Some key regulations include:
•Nighttime Preserve recreational activities are limited to hiking
•Nighttime activity is activity taking place after the Preserve is closed (one hour after
sunset)
•Night hikes will be led by a Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority
(MRCA)Park Ranger,or a non-profit organization with a City-issued permit
•Night hike participants (ranger-led hikes excluded)will be issued a night hike permit
and date-specific parking passes
•Organizations approved for a City-issued permit will be limited to 8 night hikes per
month/30 participants per hike
•No more than 10 night hikes will take place in a month,and not more than 1 night
hike will take place in an evening.Night hike requests will be considered on a first
come,first served basis
•Night hikes are permissible only at the Portuguese Bend Reserve portion of the
Preserve,for the following reasons:
o Frequency of ranger patrols
o The width of Burma trail makes it ideal,from a safety and habitat protection
standpoint,for hiking in the dark
o Parking is readily available
o Limiting night hiking to one reserve will allow for optimum use of limited City
resources for patrols and monitoring nighttime activity
•Night hiking routes must be pre-approved by the Recreation and Parks Director 30
days in advance of the scheduled hike
•Night hike activity will conclude at 9:00 p.m.
The City will offer three opportunities for night hiking:
1.MRCA Ranger-led Public Hikes
MRCA Park Rangers will lead 5-6 public night hikes annually at or near the time of a full
moon.Hikers will register for the hike with the Recreation and Parks Department.
These public hikes are a recreational offering for the community,and will take
precedent over outside organizations requesting night hikes.
2.MRCA Ranger-led Private Hikes
Park Rangers will lead private groups on night hikes upon request.Night hike approval
is at the discretion of the Recreation and Parks Director and will be based upon an
organization's ability to meet safety requirements.Staff anticipates groups requesting
ranger-led night hikes will include schools and community groups.Night hike permits
will be issued on a first come,first served basis with preference given to schools and
community organizations.
3.Organization-led Hikes
This category of night hiking groups will be very restrictive in the interest of public safety
and habitat and wildlife preservation.Organizations may apply to the Recreation and
C-2
Palos Verdes Nature Preserve Nighttime Use
May 18,2010
Page 3
Parks Department for a 6-month permit;a Park Ranger will not be present.Permit
issuance and trails available for use are at the discretion of the Recreation and Parks
Director.Staff anticipates the Sierra Club,Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy,
and Los Serenos de Point Vicente Docents to request this type of unsupervised night
hike.Groups will be required to submit liability waivers and provide insurance and
references.
Analysis
At this time,the Palos Verdes-South Bay chapter of the Sierra Club (PV-SB Sierra
Club)is the only entity that has approached the City (both during the PUMP process
and presently)regarding self-led night hiking within the Preserve.Staff has been in
contact with the PV-SB Sierra Club to discuss their desired use of the Preserve.The
Sierra Club is requesting nighttime use that is more extensive than staff's
recommended policy.In the attached March 29,2010 correspondence,the group
requests permits for 30 afterhours hikes per month within the entire Palos Verdes
Nature Preserve,while staff is recommending 8 night hikes per month per organization
(with City-issued night hike permit),restricted to the Portuguese Bend Reserve.
The basis for staff's recommendation of 8 night hikes per month was a compromise to
accommodate the PV-SB Sierra Club's request in its March 10,2010 correspondence.
However,the PV-SB Sierra Club revised its request when realizing that staff's .
recommendation was restricted to the Portuguese Bend Reserve.The PV-SB Sierra
Club is requesting access to the entire Palos Verdes Nature Preserve for night hikes
partially due to the unique situation that it is already holding the hikes to the degree
requested,and has reported to have done so for the past 30 years.The PV-SB Sierra
Club shares that the requested night hikes can take place mostly within a reserve,or
may pass through a reserve via connecting trails.In the March 29,2010
correspondence,it is indicated that specific routes are not predetermined;the hike
leader decides the hiking route that evening.
The basis for staff's recommendation is concern for public safety,wildlife and habitat
preservation,and limited resources to monitor nighttime activity in the Preserve.Staff
has attached research on other municipality's night hike regulations.The overwhelming
majority of parks and open space areas have either implemented a night hike permit
process similar to that suggested by staff,or do not allow afterhours activity within their
parks/preserves.Several municipalities shared that they do not have the resources to
adequately enforce park hours.
ALTERNATIVES
In addition to staff's recommended policy,Council may also wish to consider the
following alternative actions:
1.Prohibit all nighttime/afterhours Preserve use.
2.Direct staff to create an expanded permitting process for unsupervised night
hikes incorporating some or all requests made by the PV-SB Sierra Club.
C-3
Palos Verdes Nature Preserve Nighttime Use
May 18,2010
Page 4
FISCAL IMPACT
Staff proposes to set night hike fees which will be brought to Council for approval in
June 2010 as part of the Cost Based Fee Update.Fees will offset the City's costs for
staff time and MRCA Ranger services.
Attachments:Palos Verdes Nature Preserve Nighttime Use Regulations
Staff Report and excerpt of Minutes from April 7,2009 Council
Meeting
Night Hike Research Matrix
Sierra Club letters dated April 20,2010,March 29,2010,and
March 10,2010
C-4
Attachment A
Palos Verdes Nature Preserve Nighttime Use Regulations
•Nighttime Preserve users are required to abide by rules,regulations,and laws
established by the City and the Recreation and Parks Department
•Nighttime Preserve recreational activities are limited to hiking;
•Nighttime activity is activity taking place after the Preserve is closed (one hour
after sunset)
•Night hikes will be led by a Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority
(MRCA)Park Ranger,or a non-profit organization with a City-issued permit
•Night hike participants (ranger-led hikes excluded)will be issued a night hike
permit and date-specific parking passes
•Organizations approved for a City-issued permit will be limited to 8 night hikes
per month/30 participants per hike
•No more than 10 night hikes will take place in a month,and not more than 1
night hike will take place in an evening.Night hike requests will be
considered on a first come,first served basis
•Night hikes are permissible only at the Portuguese Bend Reserve portion of
the Preserve,for the following reasons:
o Frequency of ranger patrols
o The width of Burma trail makes it ideal,from a safety and habitat protection
standpoint,for hiking in the dark
o Parking is readily available
o Limiting night hiking to one reserve will allow for optimum use of limited
City resources for patrols and monitoring nighttime activity
•Night hiking routes must be pre-approved by the Recreation and Parks
Director 30 days in advance of the scheduled hike
•Night hike activity will conclude at 9:00 p.m.
•Parking is restricted to Crenshaw Blvd.and the area immediately adjacent to
the Portuguese Bend Nature Reserve
•All participants will sign a liability waiver,and self-led hiking groups will
provide the City with a certificate of insurance naming the City of Rancho
Palos Verdes additionally insured in the amount of $1 ,000,000 single limit
liability.
•Night hikes will operate under the "Leave No Trace"philosophy.
C-5
CrTY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES
MEMORANDUM
&CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS
,DIRECTOR OF PLANNING,
DE ENFORCEMENT
HONORABLE MAYO
JOEL ROJAS,
BUILDING AND
APRIL 7,2009
PALOS VERDES NATURE PRESERVE -PUBLIC USE
MASTERPLAN .
REVIEWED:CAROLYN LEHR,CITY MANAGER W
Project Manager:Ara Michael Mihranian,AICP,Principal Plann~
RECOMMENDATION
DATE:
SUBJECT:
TO:
FROM:
Staff recommends that the City Council:
1.Review and provide Staff with direction on the PUMP Committee's
recommendations pertaining to permitted land uses and activities (archery,
paragliding,farming,etc.)in the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve;
2.Provide Staff with direction on additional issues to be addressed in the final
PUMP document,such as nighttime use of the Preserve,annual reporting
requirements,and monitoring and enforcement;
3.Receive and file the Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy 6-month report
on trail use at the Portuguese Bend Reserve;and,
4.Disband the PUMP Committee and direct Staff to come back at a later date to
recognize the PUMP Committee with City tiles.
BACKGROUND
In August 2004,the City Council approved the NCCP subarea plan for final review and
approval by the Resource Agencies.The Council approved NCCP requires the City
and the PVPLC to develop a Public Use Master Plan (PUMP)document that identifies
how public use of the Preserve should be managed.Specifically,the PUMP is to
address issues such as public access,trailhead locations,parking,trail uses,fencing,
signs,and other issues that may arise.
On June 6,2006,the City Council formed a 15-member PUMP Committee (plus one ex-
C-6
CITY COUNCIL MEMO -APRIL 7,2009
PALOS VERDES NATURE PRESERVE
PAGE 2
officio member)to assist the City and the PVPLC with the development of certain
components of the PUMP document,such as the development of a trails plan.The
PUMP Committee began its tenure on July 12,2006.Between July 12,2006 and
January 30,2008,the PUMP Committee met 32 times.During this time period,the
Committee formed its final recommendations for the Preserve Trails Plan (PTP),which
identified the trail routes and trail uses for the greater Preserve.
On February 23,2008,the City Council held an adjourned Saturday meeting to receive
the PUMP Committee's recommendations on the PTP.Based on the Council's review
of the Committee's recommendations,the City Council officially named the
approximately 1,200-acre Preserve the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve and designated
the ten sub-areas that make up the greater Preserve as "Reserves"while renaming the
Canyons Reserve to the Portuguese Bend Reserve.That same day,the Council began
its review of the proposed trail routes,trail uses,and trail names for the Preserve.After
conducting three public hearings (February 23,2008,March 18,2008,and April 29,
2008),on April 29,2008,the City Council adopted a Preserve Trails Plan for the Palos
Verdes Nature Preserve.
The PTP that was adopted by the City Council on April 29,2008 will be just one
component of the PUMP document,albeit the biggest component.The PTP was
singled out and forwarded to the City Council for consideration before the completion of
the entire PUMP document so that the City and the PVPLC could immediately begin
implementing the PTP.Upon the completion of the Council's review of the PTP,the
PUMP Committee reconvened to continue working on the remaining components of the
PUMP Document.
The PUMP Committee held three meetings (May 21,2008,June 4,2008,and July 2,
2008)after the Council's adoption of the PTP to discuss some additional issues that will
be included in the PUMP Document.The topics the Committee reviewed included
public amenities to be found in the Preserve (picnic areas,overlooks,fencing,etc.),
public access (trailheads,etc.)and permitted land use and activities in the Preserve
(paragliding,archery,farming,and bicycle skills training area).The minutes from these
three Committee meetings are attached for Council review.It should be noted that the
minutes from the PUMP Committee's final July 2,2008 meeting were not formally
adopted since the Committee did not conduct a follow-up meeting to adopt the minutes.
The Council is being asked tonight to review the Committee's recommendations
pertaining to permitted land uses and activities in the Preserve,to provide Staff with
direction on items to be included in the PUMP document that were not reviewed by the
PUMP Committee,and to receive and file the PVPLC's six month report of trail use at
the Portuguese Bend Reserve.Furthermore,the Council is being asked to officially
disband the PUMP Committee.Based on Council direction at this meeting,Staff will
complete the PUMP document for review and approval by the City Council and the
resource agencies at a later date.
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DISCUSSION
The following discussion explains in detail the four (4)components of Staff's
recommendation:
1.Review and provide Staff with direction on the PUMP Committee's
recommendations pertaining to permitted land uses and activities
{paragliding.archery.farming,etc.)in the Preserve
The following is a summary of the Committee recommendations on land uses and
activities proposed to be permitted in the Preserve based on information presented to
the Committee from the respective organizations:
•Paragliding
According to Section 12.16.045 of the Rancho Palos Verdes Municipal Code
(RPVMC):
No person shall land,release,take off in,OF fly in any balloon designed to carry
passengers,helicopter,parasail,hang glider,or other aircraft from any city-owned
land except in areas specifically set aside therefore or with the express written
permission from the city.
The City's approved NCCP states that paragliding can be allowed in the Preserve
provided that impacts to habitat can be minimized.With that in mind,City Staff
contacted representatives from the Rancho Palos Verdes Paragliding Society (RPV-
PGS)to give a presentation on their proposed use and operation within the Preserve
to the PUMP Committee.
On June 4,2008,the RPV-PGS gave a presentation to the PUMP Committee on
paragliding within the Preserve (see attached minutes).According to the
presentation (see attachment),paragliding has been occurring on the southern
slopes of the Palos Verdes Peninsula for many years.All pilots are certified and
insured for $1,000,000 by the United States Hang Gliding and Paragliding
Association (USHGPA).All visiting pilots must be members of the USHGPA and are
given a site briefing on the rules and regulations.
The RPV-PGS is requesting permission for individual paragliders to launch from one
location in the Preserve,off the Burma Road Trail near the entry gate to the
Portuguese Bend Reserve (see attached presentation map).The launch site
coincides with the location of a City Council approved donor overlook which has
been recently constructed.This location is approximately 500-feet south of Del
Cerro Park and would encompass approximately 400 square feet of area.In
regards to landing,the RPV-PGS is not proposing to designate an official landing
zone within the Preserve.Rather,there are two proposed landing zones located
outside the Preserve at the beach area adjacent to the Trump National Golf Course
and at the area along the dirt fire road in the Gateway Park.Only in cases of
emergencies maya landing occur in an open area of the Preserve.
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Based on the paragliding presentation,the Committee recommends that the City
Council allow the launching of paragliders at the Portuguese Bend Reserve within
the designated area off the Burma Road Trail with landings to occur outside the
Preserve and to amend the Preserve Trails Plan to include a pedestrian trail to the
launch area.The Committee stressed that they do not support landing in the
Preserve.
This Motion passed 6-1-3 with Member Shaw dissenting and Members Bell,Cicoria,
and Wessel abstaining.
It should be noted that the City has received comments from the adjacent neighbors
that are in opposition of allowing paragliding in the Preserve.The neighbor's
opposition primarily focuses on privacy and safety concerns.Attached are the
neighbor's comment letters including a neighborhood petition and photographs .
•Archery
On June 4,2008,representatives from the -Palos Verdes Archery Club gave a
presentation to the PUMP Committee on their use of a portion of the City's RDA
property at Portuguese Bend since 1989 for a roving field archery range.The
property is now within the Abalone Cove Reserve.Permission to use City land was
granted by the City Council in 1989 through the approval of Conditional Use Permit
No.10 (see attachment).The conditions adopted by the City Council in 1989
specify the parameters for using City land,including the City's ability to revoke the
approval with a 3D-day notice or immediately in incidents involving landslides or
geologic conditions that prove to be an imminent hazard to health,safety and
welfare.To date,the City has not had reported problems with the operation of the
Archery Club.Furthermore,there is no lease or fee paid to the City for the use of
City land,however,the Archery Club maintains the fire road on an annual basis.
According to the representatives from the Palos Verdes Archery Club,the
organization maintains a membership of approximately 195 paid members.Paid
members receive a key to the entry gate off Palos Verdes Drive South that is
changed on an annual basis.The membership fee covers,among other things,the
annual maintenance of the dirt road.Concerns were expressed by the PUMP
Committee with membership being contingent on payment of annual dues.
Representatives indicated that membership is open to anyone who owns an archery
bow.The Archery Club is used between dawn and dusk in accordance with the City
park hours.The Club occasionally conducts special events,such as tournaments,
competitions,and picnics.
Based on the information provided at the meeting,the Committee recommends that
the City Council allow the archery club to continue operating at the Abalone Cove
Reserve under the existing Conditional Use Permit.
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The motion passed 6-3-1 with Members Bell,Shaw,and Wessel dissenting,and
Member Cicoria abstaining.
If the Council approves the continued operation of the Archery Club in its present
location in the Preserve,Staff recommends that the existing conditional use permit
be reviewed and updated to reflect the current operations and conditions.
Furthermore,the Council may wish to consider entering into a lease agreement with
the Archery Club for the use of City land.
•Farming
Farming currently occurs at the Alta Vicente Reserve (Upper Point Vicente I Civic
Center)on the southeastern slopes along the Prickly Pear trail.The farming use is
operated by Mr.Hatano based on a lease agreement with the City that is set to
expire on March 31,2011 unless renewed (this lease agreement includes the
farming at Lower Point Vicente).The City Council approved NCCP allows the
continued operation of any farming activities in the Preserve provided that such
activities are not expanded.
Mr.Hatano attended the July 2,2008 PUMP Committee meeting and briefly
summarized his farming operation.He explained that his business is a family
operation that has been in place since 1947.He gardens an assortment of flowers
on-site including cactus and sunflower.He hopes to continue his farming operation
by passing it onto his son in the future.The Committee pointed out that the lease
only grants Mr.Hatano permission to use City land for farming and that the lease
agreement would have to modified to allow his son to farm the property.
Based on the information presented at the meeting,the Committee is recommending
that the City Council allow Mr.Hatano to continue the agricultural use at the Alta
Vicente Reserve as stated in the existing lease agreement provided that the farming
is sustained in its present location.at a no more level of intensity,and until
restoration can occur.
This motion passed 9-1 with Member James dissenting.
•Bicycle Skills Training Area
At the June 4,2008 PUMP Committee meeting,members of CORBA made a
presentation for a proposal to establish a bike technical skills training area.
Specifically,CORBA is requesting that the City identify a technical skills area for
bicycle riders somewhere in the City that would range between a few hundred
square feet to 2 acres.CORBA's presentation to the PUMP Committee did not
identify a specific location.However,ideally,the location of the skills area would be
adjacent to or near the Preserve.One of the reasons why a specific location was
not identified was so that CORBA could request the City Council to determine
whether such a skills training is acceptable and if so,the Council could identify a
location for such a use on City-owned land,similar to proposed concepts identified in
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PAGE 6
the Council adopted Vision Plan.
When this item was presented to the Pump Committee,CORBA was not seeking the
Committee's approval,but rather the Committee's support of the concept with the
understanding that the skills training area would shift some of the technical riding
occurring at the Preserve to an official designated area minimizing potential impacts
to the environment.As noted in the attached July 2,2008 PUMP Committee
meeting minutes,the Committee was unable to adopt a motion that supported this
proposal (see attachment).Ultimately,the motions made that evening did not pass
and the Committee decided not to take action on this request.
At this time,CORBA is requesting the Council's consideration of a bicycle technical
skills training area located at the Gateway Park adjacent to the Portuguese Bend
Reserve (see attachment).The proposed location is outside the Preserve and
could be designed to be isolated from other users with a landscape buffer and
existing topography.CORBA's proposal,if supported by the Council,would be built
and maintained by the bicycle community,similar to other public and private
partnerships.Although it is recognized by members of CORBA that this evening's
agenda may not be the appropriate opportunitY to discuss this request because the
proposed use and location is outside the Preserve and would not be addressed in
the PUMP document,CORBA would like an opportunity to receive some feedback
from the Council on whether such a concept should be further explored and brought
back for consideration at a later time..
2.Provide Staff with direction on additional issues to be addressed in the
final PUMP document.such as nighttime use of the Preserve.annual
reporting requirements.and monitoring and enforcement
After the PUMP Committee concluded its review of the PUMP related issues,some
additional issues were raised by the public to Staff regarding use of the Preserve.Staff
believes these issues should be addressed in the final PUMP document and therefore is
seeking City Council direction on the following issues:
A.Night-Time Use of the Preserve
According to Section 12.16.030 of the Rancho Palos Verdes Municipal Code
(RPVMC),
No person shall be or remain in any park or municipal building at any time between
one hour after sundown and one hour before sunrise,unless attending or
participating in city authorized activities.
In February 2009,the City was informed that CORBA's recreational mountain biking
club (SBMBC)was listing on its website calendar night rides in the Palos Verdes
Nature Preserve (Portuguese Bend Reserve)between 6:30 p.m.and 8:30 p.m.City
Staff contacted the organization informing them of the Municipal Code section that
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CITY COUNCIL MEMO -APRIL 7,2009
PALOS VERDES NATURE PRESERVE
PAGE 7
prohibits the use of the Preserve after City park hours and that violators could be
subject to penalties and fines pursuant to Section 1.08 of the RPVMC.In response,
CORBA removed the night rides from its calendar.However,at the same time,City
Staff was also informed that night hikes were being conducted at the Preserve by
the Sierra Club.As a result,organizations such as CORBA are requesting that the
City Council allow limited access in the Preserve during evening hours for
recreational purposes.
The law prohibiting park access at night helps prevent illegal activities and adverse
impacts to nearby residents.While the current law makes no distinction between
individuals and organized groups,the language does allow evening use for City
authorized activities.Thus,if the City Council is inclined to allow established
organizations,such as CORBA and the Sierra Club,to access the Preserve
properties outside of the allowed hours under limited circumstances,Staff
recommends that the City Council adopt a policy that authorizes City Staff to issue
an annual permit to organizations.To do so,Staff recommends that the following
items be addressed in the permit process to ensure minimal impacts to the
surrounding environment and neighboring pro~erties:
•Set a limit of 20 individuals participating in the night-time activity
•Identify where parking will occur
•Prohibit night time activities from occurring after 9:00 p.m.
•Limit an organizations'nighttime use of the Preserve to no more tha'n once a
month
•Identify the specific Reserve location night time activities will occur.
B.PUMP Implementation.Oversight.and Future Review
To ensure that appropriate management practices are put into place,the City's
NCCP devotes an entire chapter (Chapter 6)to "Preserve Management"and
identifies the PVPLC as the designated Habitat Manager for the Preserve.In 2006,
the City Council authorized the PVPLC to begin managing the Preserve for the City.
In this role,the PVPLC is responsible for implementing the NCCP's Preserve
Management Plan.Primarily this involves the preparation of a Habitat Management
Plan,conducting select plant and animal species monitoring,the preparation and
implementation of a Habitat Restoration Plan,and the preparation of other
associated plans and monitoring reports.In addition,pending funding,the PVPLC is
also responsible for implementing the approved Preserve Trails Plan,which involves
basic trail maintenance,sign installation and fencing.It should be noted that a new
operating agreement between the City and the PVPLC that specifically describes the
duties of the PVPLC as preserve Manager is tentatively scheduled to be presented
to the City Council in May 2009.
The final PUMP document will contain a section on plan implementation and future
plan review.It is envisioned that once the final document is approved by the City
and the Resource Agencies,the Plan will be implemented in the following manner:
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PAGES
•City Staff including Preserve Rangers monitor trail use.PVPLC staff can add
supplemental information on trail use observations.This will be done primarily
via use of the PVPLC's KEEPERS,PVPLC Staff who are in the Preserve
working on projects,and any observations or comments submitted by the
public.
•City Staff will ensure that the approved users and activities of the Preserve,
such as agriculture use,archery use,etc.operate in accordance with the
approved Plan.
•The PVPLC will perform needed trail maintenance such as cutting back
overgrown brush on trails other than fire roads,which is the responsibility of
the City.Likewise,City will oversee any needed trail repairs.
•Pending availability of funding,the City and the PVPLC will proceed with the
closure of unapproved trails.'
•PVPLC Staff and City Staff will pursue-projects involving trail improvements,
trail development,trailhead development,and overlook improvements as
funding becomes available.The funding options include the awarding of
grants,private donations or grants,and/or City Council approved funding
through the City's annual budget process.
It is also envisioned that as the City and the PVPLC Staff implement the Plan as
summarized above,public use issues will be encountered and brought to the City's
and PVPLC's attention by Preserve users and nearby residents.Since the PVPLC
is the City's Preserve Manager,and has been since 2006 (2001 for the Forrestal
Reserve),Staff is proposing that oversight of the PUMP implementation be the
responsibility of the PVPLC.
Specifically,Staff is proposing that the PVPLC,through its present role as Preserve
Manager,serve as the lead organization for an annual workshop related to the
implementation of the PUMP.Similar to how it operates now,the PVPLC would
take appropriate action to address any concerns raised by the public or other
stakeholders by bringing these concerns to the monthly meetings that currently
occur between the City and the PVPLC.As the City's Preserve Manager,PVPLC
may request that the City take a certain action.In addition,Staff proposes that the
PVPLC conduct an annual public workshop to allow Preserve users and nearby
residents to receive information about the Preserve and also to provide input on the
implementation of the PUMP.Staff proposes that the PVPLC collect the public
comments and working together with City Staff,present an annual report to the City
Council that would cover the year's work efforts,improvement activities,and any
recommendations to modify to the PUMP document based on City and PVPLC Staff
observations and/or public comments received at the annual workshop.
If this oversight and review process is acceptable to the City Council and the PVPLC
Board,Staff will incorporate such a review process in the final PUMP Document.As
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PAGE 9
such,Staff is seeking Council direction on the proposed oversight and review
process.
3.Receive and file the Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy 6-month
report on trail use at the Portuguese Bend Reserve
On November 20,2007,three months before the PUMP Committee's PTP
recommendations were presented to the City Council,the Council was asked by
members of the public and the PVPLC to consider a temporary closure of portions of
the Portuguese Bend Reserve (then called the Canyons Ecological Reserve)to allow
the habitat to re~establish while the City determines where the official trails are to be
located and the allowed uses for each trail route.The "time~ut"was requested
because the drought of 2007 had a severe impact on the vegetation combined with an
unofficial trails network that was not marked and therefore unclear to trail users where
they were permitted to go.As such,the Council issued a temporary l'time.:.out"on all
areas of the Portuguese Bend reserve with the exception of the use of fire roads.The
temporary "time-out"went into effect on January 3j,2008.
At the Council's February 23,2008 Saturday meeting,one of the many items the
Council was asked to consider was lifting the temporary time-out.Based on input from
City Staff,the PVPLC,and members of the public,the City Council agreed to lift the
temporary "time-out"when the following management tools are implemented:.
•Installation of signs including trail marker signs on all designated trails that
indicate the trail name and the approved trail uses and the installation of signs
at the entrances to the Reserve
•Implementation of an educational program
•Implementation of an enforcement program
•Implementation of speed limits (this was ultimately determined not to be needed
since the recommended speed limit was for only one trail,the Fire Station Trail,
that was designated by the Council as pedestrian/equestrian rather than multi~
purpose).
On June 3,2008,the City Council was informed by City and PVPLC Staff that the
Council directed management tools were in place. As such,the Council authorized the
lifting of the temporary "time~out."The Council also requested that a 6~month review
occur after the re-opening of the closed portions of the Portuguese Bend Reserve.The
6-month review was intended to occur separately from the PVPLC's Annual
Management Report on the entire Preserve and was to focus on the specific items listed
above.On June 6,2008 all trails identified in the PTP were open for public use.
As directed by the Council,the 6-month review for the reporting period between June 6,
2008 and December 6,2008 is attached for the Council's review.The report
summarizes the results of monitoring efforts and implementation of the directed
management tools,trail maintenance,and trail closures for the Portuguese Bend
Reserve.Specifically,the report covers education outreach efforts,the installation and
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PAGE 10
maintenance of signs,including trail markers,and the enforcement efforts implemented
by the City through the CORE Deputies.
Based on observations of the PVPLC Staff and information received from the public and
the PVPLC's KEEPERS (Keeping an Extra Eye on the Preserve for Environmental
Review and Stewardship)property reviews,the report concludes that trails are being
used by all regardless of designated uses.However,it appears that the use of
unapproved trails has decreased since the installation of trail markers and
implementation of education efforts.As stated in the report,tTiJt appears that signage,
education,trail closures and law enforcement have been somewhat effective at keeping
trail users on approved trails during the initial six month monitoring period.Though it is
unclear to the exact degree,compliance with the specific use designation of approved
trails (pedestrian,equestrian,and bicyclists)has not yet been realized.JI
In the Report,the PVPLC is recommending that resources be allocated for
enforcement,preferably a Preserve Ranger,which could serve to both educate users
about aspects of the Preserve and enforce current Preserve rules/regulations.As the
Council is aware,at its March 21 st BUdget Policy Workshop,the Council authorized Staff
to create a Preserve Park Ranger position which is consistent with the PVPLC's
recommendation.
The 6-month review was intended to give the City Council,City staff,PVPLC,and the
members of the public a general idea of about the implementation of the'directed
management tools.This report is to be considered separate from the Annual Reports
that the PVPLC submits to the City as managers of the overall Preserve.As such,
since the Council will be reviewing the 2007-2008 Annual report at a future meeting and
that Staff is recommending that future PUMP Implementation reports will be brought to
the Council as part of the PVPLC's management responsibilities,Staff is recommending
that the City Council receive and file the 6-month report on the Portuguese Bend
Reserve.
4.Disband the PUMP Committee and direct Staff to come back at a later date
to recognize the PUMP Committee with City tiles
According to the City's NCCP,the PUMP document is intended to address issues
germane to the Preserve.On June 6,2006,the City Council formally appointed 15
individuals (plus one ex-officio member)as the PUMP Committee and charged the
Committee with the task to assist the City and the PVPLC in the development of the
PUMP document.As reflected in the June 4,2008 meeting minutes (see attachment),
the Committee provided Staff with input on some of the following topics that will be
included in the final PUMP document:
•Background on the NCCP and the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve
•Goals and Objectives of the Master Plan
•Passive Recreational Amenities
o Trailheads
o Parking
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o Bathrooms
o Drinking Fountains
o Fencing
o Lighting
•Land Uses I Activities permitted in the Preserve
•Preserve Trails Plan
o Trail Routes
o Trail Uses
o Trail Names
•Signs
o Sign Types (Kiosk signs,trail markers,etc.)
o Informational signs
o Interpretative Signs
o Public Safety Signs
At this time,the PUMP Committee has completed its tasks (its last meeting Was held on
July 2,2008).As such,Staff is recommending that the City Council officially disband
the PUMP Committee and direct Staff to identify a date to recognize the Committee with
City tiles for their incredible work effort and dedication as volunteers for more than 2
years.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Resource Agency Review
After obtaining City Council direction on the issues identified in this Staff Report,Staff
will complete the draft PUMP document and transmit it to the California Department of
Fish and Game and the U.S.Fish and Wildlife agencies for their review and
concurrence.Staff will then bring back the final PUMP document to the City Council for
final adoption.
PVPLC Annual Report
In accordance with the City approved NCCP,the PVPLC is required to submit an
annual report on its preserve management activities to the City Council on an annual
basis.The most current Annual Report,which covers the period July 1,2007 through
June 30,2008,was transmitted to the City Council on March 11,2009 with the
understanding that the Council would be asked to review and file the Annual Report at
tonight's evening.The review of the Annual Report is not included in the Council's
recommendations for this evening because City Staff and the PVPLC Staff agreed that
it is more suitable for the Council to review the Annual Report at the same meeting that
a new operating agreement is brought to the City Council for consideration.This is so
that the Council can refer to the Annual Report when considering management
responsibilities.Staff anticipates bringing the Annual Report and the new Operating
Agreement to the Council in May 2009.
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Forrestal Management Plan
The Council adopted Forrestal Management Plan is the management document utilized
by the City and the PVPLC for the Forrestal Reserve.As previously mentioned,the
Forrestal Management Plan will eventually be replaced by the PUMP Document.
Preserve Parking at Gateway Park
The City continues to receive requests from members of the public that adequate public
parking needs to be provided for users of the Portuguese Bend Reserve.At this time,
the only available parking for this Reserve is at the end of Crenshaw Boulevard near
Del Cerro Park.The Council adopted Vision Plan identifies improvements at the
Gateway Park that include a pUblic parking lot and trailhead for the Portuguese Bend
Preserve.In addition,the Gateway park improvements have been included in the City's
proposed Capital Improvement Program (C.I.P.).Notwithstanding,the lack of available
funding resources prevents the Gateway Park improvements from being constructed.
Until funding resources become available to construct the 25-acre Gateway Park
improvements either through grants or City funds,Staff is recommending that the City
Council consider opening a portion of the Gateway Park off Palos Verdes Drive South
for a temporary public parking lot.Staff believes that if public parking is made available
at this location,the demand for parking near Del Cerro Park may shift to this proposed
location reducing impacts to the residents adjacent to Del Cerro Park.'
At this time,Staff believes that approximately 15 parking spaces can be provided at this
location with minimal costs.Some of the improvements needed to provide the parking
at this location include the following:
•Realigning the chain link fence
•Installation of signs,including way finding and vehicular directional signs
•Minor grading
If the Council supports providing parking at this location,Staff will develop a specific
work program,including estimated cost figures to improve this site,for consideration at
a future meeting.
Public Notification
In order to ensure that the public is aware of the tonighfs Council meeting,City Staff
took extensive measures to make sure the public has been notified.A notice was
published in the Peninsula News on Thursday,March 19,2009 and nearly 3,000 notices
were mailed to property owners residing within approximately 500-feet of each of the 10
areas that make up the greater Palos Verdes Nature Preserve.Furthermore,a
message was sent to the PUMP and Vision Plan list-serve subscribers.
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Public Comments
At this time,the City has received several comment letters from members of the public
including PUMP Committee members (see attachment).The comment letters are
attached for Council's review.If additional comment letters are received before the April
7th City Council meeting,Staff will provide these comment letters to the Council at the
meeting.
ATTACHMENTS
•PUMP Committee Meeting Minutes
o May 21,2008
oJune 4,2008
o July 2,2008
•Rancho Palos Verdes Paragliding Society Presentation
•Palos Verdes Archery Club Report
o Conditional Use Permit No.10 including the Staff Report
o City Council Resolution No.89-117
•Lease Agreement Between the City and Mr.Hatano
•CORBA Bicycle Skills Training Area Proposal
•PVPLC 6-month Report on Portuguese Bend Reserve
•Public Comment Letters
C-18
ement Realignment (701)Martingale Trail
1)Awarde contract to D&R Office Works,Inc.for the design,purc se,and
installation odular furniture and a new counter at the Planning partment in the
amount of $6 179 and authorized staff to spend up to an additio $821 for possible
extra work or oreseen conditions,for a total authorization of ,000;and,2)
Authorized the yor and City Clerk to execute a contract with &R Office Works,Inc.
rt of Cash Balances for the City of
Report of Cash Balances for the City of
Received and filed the Dece
Rancho Palos Verdes.
Register of Demands
Received and filed the November
Rancho Palos Verdes.
November 2008 Monthly Report of
December 2008 Monthly Rep
Approved the proposed revision to ttl FYO 09 Investment Policy for the City of
Rancho Palos Verdes to enable furthe i rsification of the City's cash portfolio as may
be deemed appropriate.
ADOPTED RESOLU ON NO.2009-22,A RESOLUTIO F THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF RANC PALOS VERDES,AUTHORIZ G THE CITY MANAGER,
THE DEPUTY CITY M~GER,OR THE DIRECTOR F PLANNING,BUILDING AND
CODE ENFORCEMENT THE CITY OF RANCHO ALOS VERDES TO:1)
ACCEPT AN EASEMENT ED DEDICATING TO E CITY REAL PROPERTY
KNOWN AS THE "MARTIN LE TRAIL EASEME "(INSTRUMENT NO.78-168460)
AND 2)EXECUTE A CORRE ONDING QUITC 1M OF A PORTION OF THE TRAIL
EASEMENT TO MR.AND MR GLENN SMIT
ADOPTED RESOLUT N NO.2009-23,A RESOLUTIO OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF RANC 0 PALOS VERDES,ALLOWING RTAIN CLAIMS AND
DEMANDS AND S CIFYING FUNDS FROM WHICH T SAME ARE TO BE PAID.
PAUSE TO C SIDER THE REMAINDER OF THE AGEND~
######
REGULAR NEW BUSINESS:
Palos Verdes Nature Preserve -Public Use Master Plan (PUMP)(1201)
City Council Minutes
April 7,2009
Page 4 of 12 C-19
City Clerk Morreale reported that late correspondence was distributed prior to the
meeting on this item.
Principal Planner Mihranian provided a summary staff report and PowerPoint
presentation regarding the item.
Discussion between staff and the Council included the following issues:clarification that
the proposed bicycle skills area is outside of the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve and
technically outside of the scope of the public hearing presently before Council;the Palos
Verdes Land Conservancy Annual Report;paragliding issues;use of the archery range
by the Archery Club;farming of the City land currently leased by James Hatano,
including the history of farming on the Peninsula;nighttime use of the Nature Preserve
by CORBA and the Sierra Club,including topics of safety and monitoring;a request for
information regarding hours of operation and nighttime use of other municipal and
county parks and State and Federal Preserves;the implementation,oversight and
review of the Public Use Master Plan;and,a method to be written into the Management
Report between the City and the Palos Verdes Land Conservancy to allow for Council
to receive periodic update reports and address issues of concern regarding the
Preserve.-
Mayor Clark invited public participation and requested that speakers be mindful of the
time and avoid repeating the same points or issues raised by another speaker.
Councilman Long pointed out the five areas of consideration that the Council would
appreciate receiving input on which included the following:paragliding,archery,farming,
bicycle skills center,nighttime use of the Preserve,and the issues of concluding the
PUMP Committee.
Additional discussion between Council and staff ensued regarding the following topics:
clarification that expanded trail usage was not being considered as part of this item;the
appropriateness of discussion of items other than those listed on the agenda;whether
the topic of a bicycle skills center located outside of the Preserve should be separately
noticed and agendized;and,the current use of an area of the Preserve as a bicycle
skills center.
Joe Castaldo,Paragliders,Palos Verdes Estates,provided the background on
paragliding in Rancho Palos Verdes,including the training,insurance and certifications
required,regulations and release of liability to the City.He addressed the paragliding
flight path and boundaries,landing areas,environment preservation,and,common
procedures in the event of an emergency.
Discussion between the Council and speaker included the following topics:knowledge
of other Preserves that allow paragliding;enforcement,monitoring,licensing and
permitting;FAA regulations;lateral distances of flights;and landing sites and problems
with landings.
City Council Minutes
April 7,2009
Page 5 of 12 C-20
Hongpyo Lee,Rancho Palos Verdes,expressed concern with and opposition to
paragliding in the area citing issues of safety,liability to the City,privacy,risks to
bystanders and property,and increased usage that could cause damage to the habitat
and environment of the Preserve.
Kurt Loheit,Rancho Palos Verdes,reported that the volunteers working in the Preserve
have done an excellent job;commented on nighttime use of trails in the California State
Parks on a permit basis;and,expressed support for a ranger program for enforcement
in the Preserve and a volunteer program for interpretive involvement with the public.
Discussion between the Council and speaker included the following topics:safety and
enforcement of nighttime uses of the trails on a permit basis;public education and
enforcement issues as part of the Management Plan;and,the use of volunteers for
public education,but without citation authority.
AI Edgerton,Rancho Palos Verdes,expressed support for continuing the archery range
but suggested that there should be a notice posted prohibiting open fires in that area;
recommended that any nighttime use of the Preserve be confined to groups who are
able to self-enforce their group;encouraged adequate bathroom facilities in the
Preserve;and,suggested providing parking near Palos Verdes Drive South for users of
the Preserve.
Ian Bisco,Rancho Palos Verdes,supported keeping the mountain bike trails open in the
Palos Verdes Nature Preserve,requested that more trails be opened to bikers,and that
a bicycle skills center be set up to allow an area for young people to ride and learn
skills.
Melody Colbert,Palos Verdes Peninsula Horsemen's Association (PVPHA)Board
Member,Rolling Hills Estates,stated that she believed equestrians were not
represented on the PUMP Committee on the night the Committee discussed the
proposed uses/activities in the Preserve and expressed concern that paragliding and
horseback riding were not compatible activities.
Harvey Brown,Rancho Palos Verdes,expressed opposition to the paragliders
launching from the proposed site in the Preserve due to issues related to safety,
privacy,noise,liability,traffic,and enforcement.
Simon Kann,Rancho Palos Verdes,stated that the 6-month report showed improved
compliance of trail use as a result of the improved signage;expressed support for
nighttime riding with the use of proper equipment and lighting;commented on a
municipal park in Phoenix,Arizona that allows nighttime rides;and expressed support
for a bicycle skills facility as experienced riders cause less damage to the trails.
City Council Minutes
April 7,2009
Page 6 of 12 C-21
Michael Jost,Hawthorne,expressed support for a bicycle skills center as there was
interest in such an area,which would improve children's access to a safe place to learn
such skills.
Ruth Braswell,Concerned Off-Road Bicyclists Association (CORBA),Rancho Palos
Verdes,recommended marking the closed trails of the Preserve more effectively in
order to keep the public off of closed trails,and suggested analyzing data regarding the
well used trails with the consideration of opening additional trails for separate trail users.
Sheri Hastings,(PVPHA),Rancho Palos Verdes,stated that courtesy and education of
the different trail users was necessary so that the different trail users could understand
each others needs and resolve potential conflicts between horses and bicyclists.She
suggested it would be helpful to have a system of communication to alert groups as to
dates when heavy usage by a particular group was anticipated;discussed the need for
a multi-use parking area and traffic control if there was to be an equestrian center;and,
suggested the bicycle skills area be located near the archery range.
Troy Braswell,CORBA,Rancho Palos Verdes, stated that he was encouraged by the
data gathered to more effectively manage the use of trails in the Preserve;requested
that user locations be more consistently identified,and a distinction between off trail,
closed trail,and unauthorized trail;expressed the need for an informational kiosk to
provide public education;discussed nighttime access and stated that there should be
access for the Sierra Club and CORBA for its weekly nighttime ride;and,noted that the
intent of the bike skills area was to provide an alternative outside of the Preserve for
those wanting to practice and learn bicycle jumps.
Discussion between the Council and the speaker included the use of trail markers,
vandalism of the signs,and communication between the different user groups.
Eva Cicoria,Rancho Palos Verdes,reported that the signs were down again at the
Forrestal Nature Preserve,acknowledged the tremendous efforts made to improve the
condition of the Preserve,but noted that there was continued access and abuse of the
area known as Section C,which is an area bordered by Ailor Cliff and the Ishibashi
Trail.
AI Sattler,Rancho Palos Verdes,referenced a letter from the Sierra Club and reported
significant concerns regarding after-dark use of trails by mountain bikes which could be
particularly detrimental to wildlife.
Martin Howard,Director of Agronomy,Trump National Golf Club,Rancho Palos Verdes,
stated that Trump National has had problems for years with establishing the native
habitat at Lily Point due to the amount of traffic and continued illegal use of the area by
the paragliders.
Discussion between the Council,staff,and the speaker included clarification that the
parking lot was City-owned and the area being used as a launch and landing site by the
City Council Minutes
April 7,2009
Page 7 of 12 C-22
paragliders,Lily Point,was a part of the City-owned West Bluff Preserve area which will
eventually be included in the Natural Community Conservation Planning (NCCP)area.
Brad House,City of Los Angeles Bicycle Advisory Committee,Rolling Hills Estates,
stated that he was concerned with fair access to trails,noted that too many trails have
been closed,and was concerned regarding the lack of access to a bicycle skills area.
Gordon Leon,Equestrian Committee Chair,Rancho Palos Verdes,thanked staff and
acknowledged Principal Planner Mihranian for his work with the PUMP Committee,and
suggested adding trails to help separate some of the users including hikers,bikers and
horsemen.He stated that he supported a bicycle skills park but not at the site for the
planned Equestrian Center,but instead on the ocean side of Palos Verdes Drive South.
RECESS AND RECONVENE:
Mayor Clark called a brief recess from 9:14 P.M.to 9:24 P.M.
Dave Wiggins,Local Conservation Chairman of the South Bay Sierra Club,requested
that the City consider allowing the Sierra Club hikes to continue for one hour after
sunset when that occurs before 8:30 P.M.He noted that if the City would be allowing
access for bicycles,the Sierra Club would be willing to forego access in order to prevent
harm to the Preserve caused by mountain biking.
In response to a question by Councilman Long,Mr.Wiggins stated that he had seen
photographic evidence of small mammals being killed by nighttime mountain biking on
the Forrestal trail and,as a rider,he believed that riding a bike after dark was risky for
the rider and wildlife.
Further discussion between Council and staff included concerns with compatibility of
users,privacy issues,landing problems,licensing and permitting,enforcement,safety
issues,and the fact that paragliding was currently prohibited without express permission
of the City.
Councilmember Long moved,seconded by Mayor Clark,to overturn the PUMP
Committee's recommendation regarding paragliding and to not permit paragliding in the
Preserve,noting that the matter could be brought back to the Council at a later time,if
issues including licensing,enforcement,and problems regarding illegal take-offs and
landings were addressed.
Without objection,Mayor Clark so ordered.
Councilman Long moved,seconded by Mayor Clark,to allow archery to continue to
operate under the existing Conditional Use Permit (CUP).
Without objection,Mayor Clark so ordered.
City Council Minutes
April 7,2009
Page 8 of 12 C-23
Mayor Clark inquired if incorporated in the motion was that the existing CUP should be
reviewed,updated,and brought back to the Council.
Mayor Pro Tem Wolowicz inquired if there would be a consideration of a lease
agreement between the City of Rancho Palos Verdes and the Archery Club for the
continued use of the City land.
Councilman Long moved,seconded by Mayor Clark,to reconsider and restate the
previous motion to allow archery to continue under the existing CUP,with the review of
the CUP,and,consideration of a future lease agreement with the Archery Club.
Without objection,Mayor Clark so ordered.
Councilman Long moved,seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Wolowicz,to adopt the PUMP
recommendation regarding allowing farming to continue on City property until the
current lease expires,the current lessee retires,or until habitat restoration can occur.
Without objection,Mayor Clark so ordered.
Councilman Long moved,seconded by Mayor Pro lem Wolowicz,to bring the topic of a
bicycle skills center back to Council as a separate agenda item with alternative locations
to be considered preferably outside of the Preserve.
Without objection,Mayor Clark so ordered.
Further discussion ensued on possible locations for the bicycle skills center.
Councilman Long moved to adopt the staff recommendation to allow nighttime use of
the Preserve to end by 9:00 P.M.by different types of users,subject to it being for group
use,with various permits and regulations as specified by staff.
Mayor Clark indicated that he could not support nighttime use of the Preserve citing
concerns with habitat damage.
Mayor Pro Tem Wolowicz expressed concerns with safety and damage to the
environment and noted he desired more information on the matter and the manner in
which other parks have dealt with the topic of nighttime use.
Councilman Long withdrew his original motion due to a lack of support.
Councilman Long moved,seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Wolowicz,to allow nighttime
use of the Preserve for hikers only with the limitations as established by staff and
specifics of the permitting process to be brought back to Council for approval.
Additional discussion ensued between the Council and staff regarding the following
topics pertaining to nighttime use:safety concerns;limitations on the number of
City Council Minutes
April 7,2009
Page 9 of 12 C-24
individuals in the group and the number of times a group can use the Preserve;parking
and time restrictions;identification of nighttime activities;enforcement issues and
signage;and,concern with negative impacts of human intervention in the Preserve after
dark.
The motion passed on the following roll call vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Long and Wolowicz
Mayor Clark
Gardiner and Stern
Council and staff discussed revisiting the concept of a reconstituted PUMP Committee;
expansion of trails use;installing signage that can withstand abuse;installation of an
informational kiosk;and,revisions to the Trails Plan.
Mayor Clark moved,seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Wolowicz,to adopt the staff
recommendation to sunset the PUMP Committee and recognize the Committee
Members for their service.
Without objection,Mayor Clark so ordered.
Councilman Long moved,seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Wolowicz,to direct staff to
return with a plan to provide alternatives as a result of the disbanding of the PUMP
Committee.
Without objection,Mayor Clark so ordered.
Mayor Clark moved,seconded by Councilman Long,to receive and file the Palos
Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy 6-month report on trail use at the Portuguese
Bend Reserve.
Without objection,Mayor Clark so ordered.
Palos Verdes Driv South·Metro Bikeway Grant
Mayor Pro Tem Wolo z moved,seconded b ouncilman Long,to waive the staff
report and authorize the ayor and City Cle 0 execute the Letter of Agreement (LOA)
with the Los Angeles Cou Metropolita ansportation Authority (METRO)for the
Bike Compatible Roadway etyand age on Palos Verdes Drive South,Project
ID #F1506,TIP #LAF1506.
.item demonstrates that the City is taking steps to
City and improve the ability of motorists and
ghfare.
The motion carried on e following roll call
City Council Minutes
April 7,2009
Page 10 of 12 C-25
Night Hikes Research Matrix
Uodated Mav 2010
NIT Use Staff-led Unsupervised
Organization/Facility Prohibited NIT Use NIT Use Charge Comments
George F.Canyon Nature Center
1 (City of Rolling Hills Estates &PVPLC)X X Approximately 2 docent-led hikes take place each month.
They lack the resources to monitor nighttime activity and
Arroyo Hondo Preserve limit activity to daylight for the well-being of the habitat and
2 (Land Trust for Santa Barbara County -780 ac.)X wildlife.
Free docent and staff-led night hikes.They have had past
incidences of homeless camps,kids drinking,and nighttime
Irvine Ranch use of RTVs and bikes.They have a very effective open
3 (City of Irvine -50,000 ac.)X space patrol consisting of retired Irvine police officers.
Upper Newport Bay Preserve
4 (City of Newport Beach -1,000 ac.)X One free staff-led night hike is offered per month.
Point Lobos State Reserve Nighttime activity prohibited because park is not lit,and
5 (Carmel-554 ac.)X nighttime activity would disturb nocturnal wildlife.
Puente Hills Landfill
6 (Native Habitat Preservation Authority -3,860 ac.)X Nighttime use is not allowed.
White Point Nature Preserve
7 (City of Los Angeles Nature -102 ac.)X Nighttime use is not allowed.
Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve and Beach Nighttime activity prohibited to preserve the wildlife and
8 (La Jolla -2,000 ac.)X I habitat.
Upper Las Virgenes Canyon Open Space Preserve Nighttime activity prohibited for public safety and to limit
9 (Ventura County -2,900 ac.)X disturbance of wildlife.
Ballona Wetlands They do not yet allow nighttime activity,but are looking to
10 (Playa Del Rey -600 ac.)X offer staff-led night hikes in the future.
2 staff-led nighthikes are offered each month.Night hikes
EI Dorado Nature Center limted to minimize disturbance to wildlife and to properly
11 (City of Long Beach -106 ac.)X X manage resources.
Unsupervised groups are required to report group sizes and
specific times and locations of requested activity.In most
Santa Monica Mountains Recreational Area cases,they only charge for permits for groups >50 to
12 (National Park -153,000 ac.)X X (by permit)X recover staff costs.
Unsupervised groups are required to report group sizes and
specific times and locations of requested activity.Activity is
Mission Trails Regional Park restricted to main trail because of its width and even terrain
13 (City of San Diego -5,800 ac.)X X (by permit)X for public safety and for well-being of wildlife and habitat.
C-26
Unsupervised nighthikes are allowed during park operating
Griffith Park hours.Rangers staff Griffith Park until 10:30 p.m.Activity
14 (City of Los Angeles -4,000 ac.)X X is not allowed after 10:30 p.m.
*NIT -Nighttime
C-27
SIERRA
'CLUB
FOllNDFn 11192
April 20,2010
P.O.Box 2464
PVP,CA 90278
Mr.Bill Gerstner
City Planning Commission
Rancho Palos Verdes
30940 Hawthorne Boulevard
Rancho Palos Verdes,CA 90275
Sierra Club-Angeles Chilpter
Palos Verdes/South Bay Group
\
1
Re:Questions about Hiking in the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve
Dear Mr.Gerstner,
This letter addresses questions about Sierra Club hiking activities in the Palos Verdes
Nature Preserve that you suggested to Barry Bonnickson in your email to him dated
March 29,20]O.The PV ·SB Sierra Club is providing the following information
regarding our evening (whether truly'''nighttime''depends on time of year)hikes on the
Palos Verdes Peninsula.Additional information,can be provided in writing or verbally
upon request.
Start and finish times
Conditioning hikes (Monday,Tuesday and Thursday)start promptly at 6:30 pm and end
at about 8:30 pm.There is some variation since groups hike different routes and may
arrive back a few minutes before or after 8:30.These are not "night hikes,"but hikes that
are at the same time all year around.For some of the year they extend after dark.
Moonlight hikes (one per montll,and one hiking group)begin at 7:30 and normally end
by 9 pm.
Start and finish locations (par~ing)
Monday hikes start at the end of Crenshaw,just past Del Cerro Park.Parking is generally
along Crenshaw Boulevard.This is the smallest of our conditioning hikes.All hikes
(Monday,Tuesday,Thursday and Moonlight)are round trip and end where they start.
Tuesday conditioning hikes start in San Pedro,at 8th Street and AverilJ Avenue.Parking
is in commercial street locations,which are readily available in tile evenings.
Questions about Hiking in the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve
Palos Verdes-South Bay Group Angeles Chapter Sierra Club
April 20,2010
Page 1
C-28
1
Thursday conditioning hikes start at Peninsula Center,near the Rite Aid drug store.
Parking is in the center's pirrking lot and is readily available in that area at that time.
Moonlight hikes occur on the last Friday before the full moon once a month on average.
Starting locations vary.Typical ones are:
•Near Lunada Bay in PV Estates
•Near Neptune's Fountain at Malaga Cove in PV Estates
•Rolling Hills Estates City Hall
•GeorgeffNature Center
•Friendship Park in San Pedro (into the Ocean Trails Reserve)
•At Portuguese Bend Reserve in RPV
All these locations have ample parking in lots or on streets
Segregation into groups (type,how many,how grouped (speed»
Monday hikes can be one group or two,with participants self-segregated by speed.
Tuesday hikes are similarly organized with up to three groups (slow,moderate and fast)
Thursday hikes have the most groups,often as many as five in the summer months.
Group speeds are slow,slow moderate,moderate,fast moderate,and fast.
How many people (total and each group)
Groups are largest in the summer months and on Thursdays.Ten participants are typical
of the individual groups.Group size seldom exceeds 30.If a group is larger than 30 we
will split it into two groups on occasion;but this is generally during times when the hikes
end within one hour after sunset and are not really "nighttime hikes"by the City's
definition.During the winter (darker)months,group sizes are smaller;twenty is typically
a large group.The smaller the group size,the more convenient it is for the leader to keep
track of the participants.
Moonlight hikes can be large or small since they occur less often and at the start of a
weekend.Maximum group size is 20-30 but winter groups are smaller.
Questions about Hiking in the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve
Palos Verdes-South Bay Group Angeles Chapter Siena Club
April 20,2010
Page 2
C-29
Typical Hike Routes
Some of OUJ:'conditioning and moonlight hikes,like those that start at Del Cerro Park,
may proceed directly into the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve.However,it is more
common for our hikes to traverse other areas and then enter and leave Preserve
properties.Some hikes enter PVNP and some do not.Generally,they are not hikes OF
the preserve or AT the Preserve,but hikes that for some portion go through the Preserve.
What follows is a detailed description of one example hike,which illustrates using a few
trails in the Preserve:
San Pedro to Ocean Trails Reserve and bilck (only step 8 Is In the Reserve)
1.Meet at 8th St.and Av~rill Ave.in San Pedro
2.Take Weymouth Ave to 9th St and turn west
3.Proceed on 9th St.,across Western,to Friendship Park Dr.
4.Take Frlendshi~Park Dr.to cross Friendship Park to Cumbre Dr.
S.Proceed west on Cumbre Dr.to Mermaid Dr.
6.Take Mermaid Dr.south to 25t~St.
7.Go west on 25 th St.to north-east corner of Ocean Trails Reserve
8.Take Shoreline Park,Gnatcatcher,and Catalina trails to outside the clubhouse at the
Trump National Golf Course
9.Go north on Ocean Trails Dr.to Palos Verdes Dr.South
10.Go east on Palos Verdes Dr.South to 25 th Street to Mermaid Dr.
11.North on Mermaid to Baleria Dr.and then go east
12.At South Anchovy Ave,dog leg to Vallecito Dr.,then east to Pelican Ave.
13.Proceed north on Pelican Ave.to Cumbre Dr.
14.Take the Elks Lodge entry road 100 yards to where it turns east
15.Proceed north into Friendship Park to the maintenance road that leads to Friendship
Park Dr.
16.Do steps 3,2,and 1 in reverse to return to the starting location
Questions about Hiking in the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve
Palos Verdes-South Bay Group Angeles Chapter Sierra Club
April 20,2010
Page 3
C-30
All PVNP Trails Used in Conditioning and Moonlight Hikes
What follows are lists of trails used in our conditioning and moonlight hikes for each of
the Reserve properties that those hikes enter.Most of the trail names are from City
maps.I
P B dRortugueseeneserve -
Trail Monday Tuesday Thursday Moonliaht
Burma Road X X X
Peppertree X .'X .,X
Peacock Flats X X X,
Firestation X X X
Garden"X X
Landslide Scarp X X
Grapevine X ,.X
Ishibashi X X
Allor X X
Eagle's Nest X X
Kubota X X
Water Tank X X
2ReFTuJpperllorumserve
Trail Monday Tuesday Thursday Moonlieht
Rattlesnake X X
Torrs X X
Kelvin Canyon X X
Gary's Gulch X X
Vanderlip Canyon X X -Annie's X X
Cantering X X
Jack's Hal -X X
McBride X X
Three Sisters Reserve
Trail Monday Tuesday Thursday Moonlbtht
Barkentine X X
McCarrell Canyon -X X
1 hrce Sislers ---:X X
Vista del Norte Reserve
Trail Monday Tuesday Thursday MoonJieht
Vista del Norte Trail X
Indian Peak Loop X
I See hltp:/lwww.palosverdes.com/rpv/planninglplanning-zonimuFINAL-APP ROVED·PTP.pdf.
1 See the enclosure:Upper Filiorum Trail Map
Questions about Hiking in the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve April 20,2010
Palos Verdes-South Bay Group Angeles Chapter Sierra Club Page 4
C-31
San Ramon Reserve
Trail Monday Tuesday Thursday Moonlie:ht
Marymount X
Switchback ,X .,.
Forrestal Reserve
Trail Monday Tuesday Thursday Moontil!ht
Mariposa .X
Basalt X
Quarry X
Pirate X
CoolhelghlS X
Cristo Que Viento X
Flying Mane X
Forrestal X
Ocean Trails Reserve
Trail Monday .Tuesday Thursday Moonlight
East Boundary X
Shoreline Park X
Sagebrush Walk X
Southshore Coastal X
Gnatcatcher X
Coastal Switchback X
Catalina X
Dudleya X
Sunrise X
Training and Certification of Hike Leaders
All Palos Verdes -South Bay (PV-SB)hikes are led by certified leaders,in accordance
with national and chapter Sjerra CI\lh policy.Initial certification involves:
•Attend a Leadership Training Seminar,one-day at an area in L.A.or Orange
C,ounty.Topics from a recent seminar include:
o Co.nservation (including "Leave No Trace"principles)
o Qualities of Leadership
o First Aid
o $afety (including judgment principles)
o Planning and Conducting Outings
o Scenarios (group exercise in solving "what if"field situations)
o Administration .
•Taking and passing Standard First Aid and CPR training
•Successfully leading an outing,this is evaluated by a leader with at least two
years of experience.
All leaders must be Club members.The above training and First Aid must be refreshed
every four years per national Sierra Club policy.
Leadership training within the Angeles Chapter of the Sierra Club offers four successive
levels of certification.The lowest level is sufficient for conditioning and moonlight hikes.
Questions about Hiking in the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve
Palos Verdes-South Bay Group Angeles Chapter Sierra Club
April 20,2010
PageS
C-32
The Sierra Club encourages existing leaders to improve their skills by achieving higher
levers of certification.
However,it's not enough to be a certified Sierra Club leader.Because our hikes use the
trails and roads of Palos Verdes,those who lead must have been participants long enough
that they know the routes available (e.g.,which trails are open for hiking)and the various
options for building a route which stays within those constraints and gets the group back
to the starting point at the scheduled time.As a result,leaders of our hikes are very
familiar with the terrain and trails.
Our Leaders for Conditioning and Moonlight Hikes
Name
Barry Bonnickson
Bill Lavoie
Brooks Chadwick
Dave Hixson
Doric Chadwick
Jacaues Monier
lerry1'raaer
lC)yce Wbite
Judy Shane
Keith Martin
Linda Werk
LoisVilc
Michael Coble
TonyTruJl
Phone
310..519.0778
310.318..8123
310·676·8848
310·S44·06()0
310.316·7843
310-982·6773
310-319·1111
310·530·1268
310·676-6171
310·316·7843
3 J0-3789743"
310·326-8874
Cell Phone
N/A
?
?
?
310481-5203
?
?
?
310-683·9224
?
'I
?
?
Note that the infonnation about leader cell phones is incomplete at this time.See the
additional infonnation about cell phones in the following Outing Rules section.
Palos Verdes-South Bay Group Policy on Hiking in Palos Verdes
The Sierra Club supports hiking by Sierra Club hiking groups on all.open hiking trails on
public land on the Palos Verdes peninsula,between one hour before sunrise and 10 pm
local time.Trails which a municipality or other govenunent agency has closed shall not
be used by the Sierra Club for hiking.All such hikes will be led by Sierra Club certified
leaders who will be knowledgeable of and supportive of environment81 restrictions and
goals in the areas in which we hike.Recognizing the damage that off-trail hiking can do
to habitat,all hikers should stay on designated'trails,that is not hike "cross country"nor
"cut switchbacks".
Outings Rules
We have very extensive national Club outings policies and guidelmes;a list of policy and
guideline titles would be about a page long and can be provided if desired. These are
augmented by Angeles Chapter Rules of Conduct and a Safety Policy administered by the
Safety Committee.These include requirements to sign waivers and report incidents,and
Questions about Hiking in the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve April 20,2010
Palos Verdes-South Bay Group Angeles Chapter Sierra Club Page 6
C-33
investigative processes for reported incidents.The Rules of Conduct include the
following pertinent paragraphs:
•Travel Procedures:Participants are to remain with the group unless the leader
gives pennission to leave,adhere to routes designated by the leader,refrain from
"short cutting rt switchbacks on trails,and remain behind the leader and ahead of
the trail sweep.
•Leave No Trace:The Sierra Club supports leave no trace principles,including
mitlimizing the environmental impact hiking,disposing of waste properly or
packing it out,leaving natural objects as you find them,respecting wildlife,and
being courteous to other visitors.
•Compliance with Laws and Regulations:Sierra Club outings are conducted in
compliance with applicable laws and regulations,including requirements for entry
permits,campfire restrictions,campsite location restrictions,waste handling rules,
parking restrictions,and etcetera.Rangers and o:ther law enforcement personnel
are to be treated with respect.
•Cell Phones:Both leaders and participants 8:fe encouraged (but not required)to
carry cell phones because they may be a useful resource in an emergency.
Inappropriate or excessive use of cell phones for non-emergency communications
can be annoying to participants.Outing leaders therefore have the authority to
restrict or regulate the use of cell phones.
We also encourage carrying flashlights when hiking at night via this statement in the trip
write-up we publish:"Bring red lens flashlight.":rhe write-up also says "Rain Cancels",
Waiver (who signs and what does it say)
All hikers,for every outing,must sign the waiver.A copy of the waiver is enclosed.
rr:t-~
Kent Schwitkis,Chairman
Palos Verdes-South Bay Group Angeles Chapter Sierra Club
Encs.:1)Sien'a Club PV-SB Letter to RPV Recreation &Parks Department (3/29/2010)
2)Upper Filiorum Trail Map
3)Sierra Club Sign-in Sheet and Liability Waiver
Questions about Hiking in the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve
Palos Verdes-South Bay Group Angeles Chapter Sierra Club
April 20,2010
Page 7
C-34
SIERRA
CLU"B
l'OllNI)EI)11192
M~rch 29,2010
P.O.Box 2464
PVP,CA 9Q278
Sierra Clulr-Angeles Chapter
Palos Verdes/South Bay Group
Mr.TomOdom
Recr~~ti"on anq pfWks Dpp.~f~~nt
...RapcllQ J>~los Verqes
30940 Hawthorne Boulevard
R~hcho Palos Verdes,CA 90275
Re:Eveniqg Hiking in the PaJos Verdes Nature Preserve
Dear Mr.Odom,
This letter supl':lrsedes our previous letter on nighttime hiking,dated March 10,20 IO.
At the April 6,2010 RPV City Council Meeting,nighttime use ofthe trails ofthe Palos
Verdes Nature Preserve (PVNP)wilt be-discussed.This letter should be part ofthat
discussion.
In recent conyersations,the Recreationa,rd Parks Dep~rtment (RPD)has shown its
willingness to address Sierra Club (SC)requests for nighttime hiking in the Portuguese
Bend Reserve (PBR).We.appreciate the c()n~ideration RPD has shown to Sierra Club
requests.However,prior to viewing a drafforthe Memorandum from the RPD on
administration of nighttime hiking,we were .\Inder the impressiqn that the focus of the
City concerning njghttime hiking was restricted ~()discussion of the Portuguese Bend
Reserve (PBR).Now it appears that while allowing permitted hiking in the PBR,the
remainder of the PVNP.would be offlimits.We are requesting access to trails throughout
the PVNP for our nighttime conditioning hikes.
The remainder of this letter explores the differences between past activities of the Palos
Verdes-South Bay (PV-SB)Group of the Sierra Club (SC)an~the positions taken in the
City Council Minutes from April 7,2009..
City Council Minutes,Sierra Club PV -SB Group Requests
417/2009
City issued permits SC evening Conditioning Hikes occur every week of the year.
Thus,a permanent or yearly permit for recurring outings wiIJ
be most convenient for both parties.
Evening Hiking in the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve
Palos Verdes-South Bay Group Angeles Chapter Sierra Club
March 29,2010
Page I
C-35
City Council Minutes,
4n12009
Preservation of flora
adjacent to trails
"Pennitted groups can
provide outings no
more that once a month
for groups of no more
than 20 participants
ControlofpubJic
nuisance
Limit trail usage to
Bynna Road within the
PBR.
Limit access for
Public Safety
Sierra Club PV-SB Group Requests
We respect the environment.Hiking on narrow trails is always
single file.It takes no more space to hike at night than it does
during the day.
We ask for 30 hikes a month with up to 30 participants per
hike.Three evenings a week,people assemble near Del·Cerro
Park,at Peninsula Center,and in San Pedro to commence one
or more of our hikes to varioUs locations on and about the
Peninsula.The path taken in each hike is at the discretion of
the hike leader.Many ofthese hikes are likely to traverse trails
ofthe PVNP,and most hiking'srollPIHir~smaller than 20
participants (we don't want to turn peof1le aWay ifparticipation
occS$ionallv soikes).i .•.
Sierra Club members have been participating in evening hikes
in .this area.§ince 1971.\\lith.~o record of pyblic cQlJlplaint.We
respe6tthe fauna'and flora,and obey trail usage signs.Our
participants do not litter,but rather pick up litter left by other
trail users..
The rOtlte taken by a group should~eat the discretion of that
Leader ofthat group.];.ocalSCl:.eadeis.arefamiIiar with the
trail networkthroush~~tthe PYNP andlmow wbichtrails are
safe fordaylightandeyeming ysage.These same Leaders use
their Imowledge,as wen as considerations of current trail
conditions and available evening lighting to choose appropriate
routes,which·aJ:esafe without being repetitive.
We have an iriipe~Table recofifofsafety with extremely few
incidents overthe.l'ast 40 years and thousands of hikes.~
SC Leader is trai~ed i~First Aid and'has experience •leading
groups and alertiJlg jjhrticipants to potential.dangers.All hike
participants are required to sign a SC fonnexplaining the .
responsibilities of all parties.Participarl~are encouraged to
wear appropriate trail footwear,and employ red flashlights to
illuminate the trail without dilating the pupils oftheir eyes to
maximize nighttime vision
It is our hope that the RPV City Council will view these evening outings of the Sierra
Club as a positive contribution to the public enjoyment the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve.
Kent Schwitkis,Chairman
Palos Verdes-South Bay Group Angeles Chapter Sierra Club
Evening Hiking in the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve
Palos Verdes-South Bay Group Angeles Chapter Sierra Club
March 29,2010
Page 2
C-36
C-37
Sign4n SheefandLiability Waiver
Outing:I Date($):IPage of
Leader:[AssiStantL.eader:
Sign-In Sheet &Acknowledgment of Outing Membe"Respon$ibilityIExpr~A$$umptionofR;$k,al1irRe/ea$eof Liafjility
I understand that during my participation in this Sierra Club Outing,J may be exposed 10 a variety of hazardsandrisks,fofElseenoruntoreseen,which are
inherent in each Outing and cannot be eliminated without destroying the unique charaeteroftheQuting.Theseinherentrisksinclude,but are not limited to.the
dangers of serious personal injury,property damage,anddeath("JnjuriesandOamages~)frOmexposuretothehazardsoftravetandthe Sierra Club has not
tried to contradict or minimize my understanding of these.risks.·lknowthatJnjuries and9amages can occur by natural causes or activities of other persons,
animals,trip members.trip leaders and assistants or third parties,eitheras a resultofnegtigence or because ofother reasons.I understand that risks of such
Injuries and Damages are involved in adventure travel such as Sierra Clui:tQutings and 1 appreciate thaHmay have to exercise eXtra care for my own person
and for others around me in the face of such hazards.I furtherundef$tand thaton this Outing there may not be rescue or medical facilities or expertise
necessary to deal with the Injuries and Damages to which I may be exposed.
In consideration for my acceptance as a participant on this Outing,and the services and amenities to be provided by the Sierra Club in connection with the
Outing,I confirm my understanding that:
• I have read any rules·and conditions applicable to·the Outing made available to me;I will pay any costs and fees for the Outing;and I acknowledge my
participation is at thediseretion of the leader.
•The Outing officially begins and ends at the location(s)designatedbytheSierra.Olub.The Outing doesnotincludecarpooling,transportation,or transit to
and from the Outing,and I am personally responsible for all risks associated with this travel.This does notapply to transportation provided by the Sierra
Olub dUring the Outing..
•If I decide to leave early·and·not to complete the Outing as planned,lassurnealtriSksinherentin.mydecisiontoleave.andwaivealLllability against the
Sierra Olub arising from that decision.Likewise,iftheleaderhasconclUdedtheOlJtjng,and.ldecidetogoforwardwithoutthe leader,I assume all risks
inherent in my decision to go forward and waiveall.liability againstthe Sierra Club arising from that decision.
•ThIS Agreement is intended to be as broad and/nclusiveas isperrnitledbylaw,lfanyprovision or anypartofanyiprovisionofthis Agreement is hel(j to be
invalid or legally unenforceable for any reason,theremainderofthi~Agreel1ll;tntshaln9tbE!13ffectedtherebyandshaltremainvalid .and fullyenforceabJe.
•To the fullest extent allowed by law.I agree to WAIVE,DISCHARGECLAIMS,ANDREL.EASEc·FROMLIABIUTYtheSlerraOIUb,its officers,directors,
employees,agents,and leaders from any and all liability on accountof,orinanywayresulting.fromlnjuriesandDarnageS,even ifcaustad by negligence
of the Sierra Olub its officers,directors,employees,agents,andleaders,in anyway connected with this Outing,.I further agree to HOLD HARMLESS the
Sierra Club,its officers,directors,employees,agenls,andleadersfromanyclaims,damages,injuries orlosses caused by my own negligence while a
participant on the outing,I understand and·intend that this assumption ofrisk·and .release is binding •upon my heirs,·executors,administrators and assigns,
and includes any minors accompanying me on the Outing.
• I have read this document in its entirety and I freely and voluntarily assume all risks ofsuchlnjuries and Damages and'notwithslandingsuch risks,I agree to
participate in the Outing,
Revised:March 18•.2002
Name Signature EarlySign-out
·,f a minor is going on the triP.the minor's guardian must sign on the minor's behalf.C-38
Sign...in Sheet and.Liability Waiver
I have read the attached Sign-In Sheet &Acknowledgment of Outing Member Responsibility,Express Assumption of Risk,and Release of Liability in its
entirety and I freely and voluntarily assume all risks of such Injuries and Damages and notwithstanding such risks,I agree to participate in the Outing.
Name Signature Early Sign-Out
.',
"=:"
~.;.
Revised:March 18,2002 "If a minor is going on the trip,the minol's guardian must sign on the minol's behalf.
C-39
Sl.ERRA
CLUB
fOUNlHI'Il192
Ivbgch 29,2010
P.O.Bp~24ti4
PVP,CA 90;27$,
Sierra Club-Angeles Chapter
Palos Verde~/South Bay Group
Mr.ToroOdom
Recre~tlQn anq J?~ks D~~Jitp')~nt.
j Jt8pQh,Q }>~Ios Verges
30940 Hawthorne Boulevard
Rancho Palos Veraes,CA 90275-<:f""."'".:',"."':' ,
Re:EvenillgHiking in the Pafq.Verdes Nature Preserve
DearMr.OOom,
This lettersup'~r~edes purpr~vious Jetter on nighttime hiking,dated March 1O~2010.
Atthe April6,2010RJ'V City Couf)cUM#~tihg,nighttime use ofthe trails ofthe Palos
Verdes NllturePreserve (PVNP)will be discussed.Tbisletter should be part of that
discussion.
J.n fecentconXersations,the'Recr~ation~nd ?arksRe~~rqn.~nt (RPD)'has sbown its
wJllill,gtl!sstoadqress Sierta.,Club (SPJre~w~stsJotnjgbttbne hiking in the Portuguese
Behd Reserve(P:aR).",e,apprecia.tethec()Q~i~eratiQn RPD~asshown to Sierra Club
requests.However,priorto viewing.a dra.J1:9t-t,he Memorandurnfrom theRPD on
administration ofnighttirn.e hiking,we were'MPder th,e bppressiQn that tfie focus of the
City cpncf.'rnipg ..n.ightti111e hiking was restri.cted~C),discussion ofthe Portuguese Bend
Reserve (P:aR).NoW it appears that whileallowiIi~permitted hiking.in the PBR,the
remainder ofthe PV'I~J?,would be offFmits.We are requesting access to trails throughout
the PVNP for our nighttime conditioning hikes.
The remainder of this letter e"plores ~he diffrr~nces between past activit~~s of the Palos
Verdes-South Bay (PV-SB)Qroup of the ~ierra Club (SC)ang tre positions taken in the
City Council Minutes from April 7,2009..
City Council Minutes,
4/7/2009
City issued permits
Sierra Club PV-SB Group Requests
SC evening Conditioning Hikes occur every week ofthe year.
Thus,a permanent or yearly permit for recurring outings will
be most convenient for both parties.
Evening Hiking in the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve
Palos Verdes-South Bay Group Angeles Chapter Sierra Club
March 29,2010
Page 1
C-40
CitY Councill\f,inUfes,'Sierr.a Club :PV..SB GronpRequests
4/7/2009
Preservation of flam .'
adjacent to trails
.ent Schwitkis,Chairman
Palos Verdes-South Bay Group Angeles Chapter Sierra Club
Evening Hiking in the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve
Palos Verdes-South Bay Group Angeles Chapter Sierra Club
March 29,2010
Page 2
C-41
SIERRA
CLUB
fOUNDED 11192
March 10,2010
P.O.Box 2464
PVP,CA 90278
Sierra Club-Angeles Chapter
;Palos Verdes/South Bay Group
Mr.Tom'Oddm
Recreation and Parks Department
RahchoPalos Verdes
30940 Hawthorne Boulevard
Rancho Palos Verdes,CA 90275
Re:Evening Hiking in the Portuguese Be~d Reserve
Dear Mr.Odom,
At the April 7,2009 RPV City Council Meeting,nighttime.use ofthe trails ofthe
Portuguese Bend Reserve (PBR)was discussed.A conversation on February 26,2010
between Barry Bonnickson and Torq Odom and Katie Howe ofthe City Parks and
Recreation Department explored the differences between past activities of the Palos
Verdes,.,.south Bay€PV-SB)Group·ofthe Sierra Club (SC)and the management proposal
being prepared for Council consideration.The purpose of this letter is to highlight those
differences for further Council consideration.
.-.
Parks &Recreation Proposals .,Sierra ClubPV-SBGroupReauests
Permitted groups can provide outings nb Every Monday and Thursday evenings
more that once a month for groups of no people assemble near Del Cerro Park and at
more than 20 participants Peninsula Center to commence one or more
of our hikes to various locations on and
about the peninsula.The path taken in each
hike is at the discretion ofthe hike leader.
Only a few ofthese hikes.a.re likely to
traverse the PBR.However,we ask for
minimum of eight hikes a month with up
to 30 participants per hike (most hikes will
be much smaller but we don't want to tum
people away).
Evening Hiking in the Portuguese Bend Reserve
Palos Verdes-South Bay Group Angeles Chapter Sierra Club
March 10,2010
Page 1
C-42
Parks &Recreation ProPQsals Sierra'Glub PV-8B Group Requests
Control ofpublic nuisance Sierra Club members have been
participating in evening hikes in this area
sinoe 1971 with no record ofpilblic
complaint (unlike evening bicycle usage).
We respect the fauna,flora,and follow
trail usage signs.Often our partioip8Pts
pickup litter left by other trait users.,
Limit trail usage to Burma Road Local SC Leaders are familiar with the trail
network within the Reserve and know
which trails are safe for everdug usage.
These same Leaders have usedth,~se trails
during daylight hours.The path <taken by
the group should be atthe discvetionofthe
Leader.Current trail conditions and
available evening lighting contribute to the
choice of appropriate rQllt~which are safe
without being repetitive.
Limit aocess for Public Safety Each SC Leader is trained in First Aid and
has experience leading groups and alerting
,partioipants to potential dangers.All hike
participants are required to sign a SC form
explaining the responsibilities of all parties.
P.at1ieipants employ red or green flashlights
toiIIuminate the trail condition without
dilating the pupils oftheir eyes.
Partioipants are encouraged to wear
appropriate trail footwear.
Preservatioli oftlora adjacent to trails We respect the environment.Hiking on
narrow trails is always single file.It takes
no more space to hike at night than it does
.,during the day .
City issued permits SC Conditioning Hikes ooeur every week
of the year.Thus,a permanent permit for
reourring outings will be most convenient
I for both parties.
It is our hope that the RPV City Council wiIl view these evening outings ofthe Sierra
Club as a positive contribution to the public enjoyment the Portuguese Bend Reserve.
Sincerely,
lfut~
Kent Schwitkis,Chairman
Palos Verdes-South Bay Group Angeles Chapter Sierra Club
Evening Hiking in the Portuguese Bend Reserve
Palos Verdes-South Bay Group Angeles Chapter Sierra Club
March 10,2010
Page 2
C-43