AgdaPkt 2004-09-13 - Laserfiche WebLink

Browse Search

� �� human beings, and human beings have no reason to harass rails. If we can isolate potential contact with rails to those instances when the rails would be near the levee tops because of a tidal event, we can likewise isolate and prevent the opporturut�� for a"take" of rails. By coordinating a"rail" closure of the levee top during periods of potential rail use, we can manage the habitat for the benefit of people and for the rails. Besides the closure of the levee tops during periods when human/rail contact is as likely as it will ever be, we should strive to provide what the California Clapper rail needs. Native cover, and non-native screening plants (like wild anise that currently grows on the levee top) must be encouraged and maintained to provide a dense natural cover wall. Those areas of cover observed between the SBCA facilitv and the levee wall are approximately 3 feet in height and excellent cover for animals. Unfortunatel3�, dogs are incompatible in this area. Dog walkers, with dogs on leash, must be restricted from the levee wall. Uncontrolled dogs with negligent dog owners allowing them off leash are a danger to ra.ils and mice and must be prohibited. It is unfortunate, but necessary until such time as dogs are willing to accept the Endangered Species Act. Redwood City will, in consideration of an agreed to phased opening of the levee top, adopt such ordinances as are necessary to enforce and protect this portion of the Bair Island Complex. The City also believes that the best protecrion this portion of the refuge can have is a cooperative relationship with its neighbors. The residents of Redwood Shores must be well informed, motivated to adopt this precious portion of their natural heritage and empowered to a�ert officials when incompatible uses are observed. A eigilant public provides more hours of supervision and more eyes to watch than either agency can afford to provide. It is in the best interest of all to motivate citizen involvement. The question very carefully stated is, "How can we re-introduce human access onto the levees without taking the habitat of the species." In the light of changed circumstances, the acquisition of the Bair Island Complex, a revision of the assumptions applied in 1996, and new tide data, the Ciry has contacted the FWS in informal discussion to revisit the biological opinion. We have developed a working protocol that, when reviewed by expert scientific analysis, will result in both renewed access to the citizens of Redwood City and a higher degree of security for the endangered species because of the commitment to conservation and protection fostered by the City. We must be careful to acknowledge that until we have completely satisfied the FWS, no commiunent on their part should be suggested or solicited. 25