This project seeks to maintain existing shaded fuel breaks in the open space districts of the Bahia community of Novato. The program includes mowing and pulling non-native vegetation 100 feet from structures in the open space located between Topaz Drive, Laguna Vista, Cerro Crest Drive, Albatross Drive, and Bugeia Lane. Each year residents are approved by the City of Novato to cut annual grasses 100 feet from structures. This is an existing shaded fuel break that dates back to 2002. No healthy, mature trees will be removed under this project. Trimmings and removed vegetation will be recycled through chipping or composting at regional facilities. There are two evacuation routes out of Bahia. The main route is located on Bahia Drive and the secondary route is located between Albatross Drive and School Road. The evacuation routes shall be cut back 10 feet on both sides of the roadway and 14 feet vertical as needed. First, an Environmental Assessment (EA) will be conducted and provided to the MWPA for review. Based on the assessment, there will either be a Notice of Exemption (NOE) or a full CEQA review. Once that is completed, bird nest, bat and wood rat surveys will be conducted before mowing is implemented. The project will be documented with before and after photos.
