Addendum to the EIR

Transcription

Addendum to the EIR

ADDENDUM
to the
Environmental Impact Report
for the RE Old River One and RE Old River Two Solar
Project
OLD RIVER ONE MODIFICATION PROJECT (PP14190)
By RE Old River One LLC
Lot Line Adjustment 23-14
Kern County
Planning and Community Development Department
Bakersfield, California
June 2014
TABLE OF CONTENTS
VOLUME 1 OF 1
CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION & OVERVIEW .......................................................................................1-1
1.1
INTRODUCTION .......................................................................................................................... 1-1
1.2
PROJECT OVERVIEW................................................................................................................... 1-2
1.3
ADDENDUM ORGANIZATION ..................................................................................................... 1-2
1.4
ADDENDUM SCOPE OF ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW ................................................................... 1-2
1.5
BASIS FOR AN EIR ADDENDUM .................................................................................................. 1-4
1.6
EVALUATION OF ALTERNATIVES ................................................................................................ 1-5
1.7
ADOPTION AND AVAILABILITY OF ADDENDUM ......................................................................... 1-5
CHAPTER 2 MODIFIED PROJECT DESCRIPTION .................................................................................2-1
2.1
INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND ......................................................................................... 2-1
2.2
MODIFIED PROJECT CHARACTERISTICS ..................................................................................... 2-2
2.3
ENTITLEMENTS REQUIRED ......................................................................................................... 2-4
CHAPTER 3 ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS ..........................................................................................3-1
3.1
AESTHETICS ................................................................................................................................ 3-2
3.2
AGRICULTURE AND FOREST RESOURCES ................................................................................... 3-6
3.3
AIR QUALITY ............................................................................................................................. 3-13
3.4
BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES ......................................................................................................... 3-19
3.5
CULTURAL RESOURCES ............................................................................................................ 3-27
3.6
GEOLOGY AND SOILS ............................................................................................................... 3-31
3.7
GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS ................................................................................................ 3-35
3.8
HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS ................................................................................. 3-38
3.9
HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY ......................................................................................... 3-42
3.10 LAND USE AND PLANNING ....................................................................................................... 3-49
3.11 NOISE ....................................................................................................................................... 3-53
3.12 PUBLIC SERVICES ...................................................................................................................... 3-59
3.13 TRANSPORTAION AND TRAFFIC ............................................................................................... 3-62
3.14 UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS............................................................................................. 3-65
CHAPTER 4 LIST OF PREPARERS.......................................................................................................4-1
4.1
LEAD AGENCY ............................................................................................................................. 4-1
4.2
PROJECT PROPONENT ................................................................................................................ 4-1
4.3
TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE ............................................................................................................. 4-1
CHAPTER 5 REFERENCES .................................................................................................................5-2
Addendum to RE Old River One and Two Solar Project EIR
RE Old River Solar 1 Modification Project
June 2014
i
LIST OF TABLES
Table 2-1. Zoning and Land Use of Surrounding Properties .................................................................... 2-2
Table 2-2. RE Old River One PG&E - Generation-Tie line and Transmission line Upgrades ............... 2-10
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 2-1. Regional Location Map ........................................................................................................... 2-5
Figure 2-2. Exisiting General Plan Land Use Designations ...................................................................... 2-6
Figure 2-3. Existing Zoning ....................................................................................................................... 2-7
Figure 2-4. Lot Line Adjustment (LLA #23-14) Existing ......................................................................... 2-8
Figure 2-5. Lot Line Adjustment (LLA #23-14) Proposed ........................................................................ 2-9
Figure 2-6a & b. Transmission Line and Pole Design ............................................................................ .2-12
APPENDICES
Appendix A
Appendix B
Biological Survey Conducted for RE Old River One
An Additional Phase 1 Cultural Resource Survey
Addendum to RE Old River One and Two Solar Project EIR
June 2014
ii
Chapter 1
Introduction & Overview
1.1
INTRODUCTION
As Lead Agency, the Kern County Planning and Community Development Department prepared an
Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for the RE Old River One and RE Old River Two Solar project
(referred to herein as the “approved project”) which evaluated 25 megawatts (MW) of solar development
on a 234-acre site. The Kern County Board of Supervisors certified the RE Old River One and RE Old
River Two Solar project Final EIR (referred to herein as the “certified EIR” or “EIR”) (State
Clearinghouse No. 2010121058) and approved the RE Old River One and RE Old River Two project on
November 11, 2012, which consisted of Conditional Use Permit (CUP) No. 63 (Resolution 2012-329).
The Final Environmental Impact Report prepared for these projects originally analyzed two (2)
contiguous project sites (RE Old River One Solar and RE Old River Two Solar). However, subsequent to
the circulation of the Draft EIR, Staff received a letter from the project operator indicating that they were
withdrawing the proposed conditional use permit (CUP 64, Map 142) for the Old River Two site (CUP
64, Map 142), to allow for an increased setback of 555 feet from the project site boundary to the
residential houses located north of Shafter Road. This change in the project description reduces
environmental impacts in comparison to developing both sites, but does not adversely change significance
determinations in the draft EIR. The approved RE Old River One project site would develop a 20 MW
solar facility on 190 acre portion of 2 contiguous parcels totaling 234 acres.
Modifications are now being proposed to the approved project’s boundaries, which will require approval
of a Lot Line Adjustment (LLA) to reconfigure two project parcels. The proposed changes to the
approved project are referred to herein as the “proposed modified project” or “proposed project
modifications.” This Addendum has been prepared to determine whether the proposed modified project
would result in new or substantially more severe significant environmental impacts compared with the
impacts disclosed in the certified EIR.
Lead Agency Contact Information
Kern County Planning and Community Development Department
Ms. Jacquelyn R. Kitchen, Supervising Planner, Advanced Planning Division or
Mr. Carlos Rojas, Planner I, Advanced Planning Division
2700 “M” Street, Suite 100
Bakersfield, California 93301
Phone: (661) 862-8636
Project Proponent
RE Old River One LLC,
Mr. Mark Walker
PO Box 25459
Richmond, VA 23260-5459
Addendum to RE Old River One & Two Solar Project EIR
June 2014
1-1
Chapter 1. Introduction and Overview
1.2
PROJECT OVERVIEW
The certified EIR analyzed the construction and operation of the RE Old River One solar facility, a 20megawatt (MW) solar photovoltaic (PV) power generation facility on approximately 190 acres, and the
RE Old River Two facility, a proposed 5-MW facility on approximately 44 acres. The two project sites
are on two contiguous parcels located on the south side of Shafter Road, north of Bear Mountain
Boulevard, east of Gosford Road, and west of Ashe Road in the central portion of western Kern County,
Section 21, Township 31 South, Range 27 East, Mount Diablo Base and Meridian (MDB&M). They are
within the jurisdictional boundaries of the Metropolitan Bakersfield General Plan and the Metropolitan
Bakersfield Habitat Conservation Plan.
As described throughout this document, the entire original project included 234 acres that were evaluated
in the certified EIR. However, the term “approved project” of “approved project site” consists of a
reduced (190 acre) portion of the two parcels, as well as the associated off-site activities that would be
developed with implementation of the proposed modified project analyzed in this Addendum.
1.3
ADDENDUM ORGANIZATION
This document is organized as follows pursuant to the requirements of the CEQA Guidelines:
1.4

Chapter 1, Introduction and Overview, describes the background of the proposed modified
project; explains the rationale for preparing an Addendum to the EIR as the appropriate form of
environmental review pursuant to CEQA; and explains the purpose, scope, and content of the
Addendum.

Chapter 2, Modified Project Description, describes the location and details of the proposed
modified project.

Chapter 3, Environmental Analysis, evaluates whether the proposed modifications to the
approved project would result in new or substantially more severe significant environmental
impacts compared with the impacts disclosed in the certified EIR.

Chapter 4, List of Preparers, lists the individuals involved in preparing the Addendum.

Chapter 5, References, lists the documents and individuals consulted during preparation of the
Addendum.
ADDENDUM SCOPE OF ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
This Addendum evaluates whether the proposed modifications to the approved project would result in
new or substantially more severe significant environmental impacts compared to the impacts disclosed in
the certified EIR.
The EIR assessed the environmental impacts of the RE Old River One and the RE Old River Two Solar, a
20-MW and a 5 MW solar PV energy generation facility located on approximately 234 acres.
RE Old River Solar One Modification Project
June 2014
1-2
Components of the facilities included:
 Stationary, ground-mounted thin-film or crystalline PV modules (panels) on fixed-tilt or tracking
supports;
 Inverters to convert output from the PV panels from direct current (DC) to alternating current
(AC);
 Transformers; circuit breakers; a distribution line
 New substation;
 Weather monitoring equipment
 Construction staging areas
 Internal infrastructure, including roads and fences
 A Generation-tie (gen-tie)
For complete descriptions of approved onsite facilities, please refer to the EIR. The potential impacts of
these facilities were assessed in the EIR and approved in the CUP. The proposed modified project
contains the same general facilities identified in the EIR.
As discussed in the certified EIR, the approved project was determined to have no impact with regard to
the following impact thresholds. Since the proposed modified project would have generally the same
facilities located in the same geographic area, the impacts of the proposed modified project would also
have no impact with regard to these impact thresholds. Therefore, these impact thresholds are not further
analyzed in this Addendum:

Population and housing

Recreation.
The certified EIR established that, with mitigation incorporated, the approved project would result in lessthan-significant impacts related to the following environmental impact areas:











Air Quality (Project)
Agriculture and Forest Resources (Project)
Biological Resources (Project)
Cultural Resources (Project and Cumulative)
Greenhouse Gas Emissions (Project and Cumulative)
Hazards and Hazardous Materials (Project and Cumulative)
Hydrology and Water Quality (Project and Cumulative)
Land Use and Planning (Project and Cumulative)
Public Services (Project and Cumulative)
Transportation and Traffic (Project and Cumulative)
Utilities (Project and Cumulative)
The certified EIR established that the approved project would result in significant and unavoidable
impacts with regard to the following environmental impact areas:
June 2014
1-3





Aesthetics (Project and Cumulative)
› Significant project-level and cumulative impacts as a result of changes to visual character
of the site and its surroundings.
Agriculture and Forest Resources
› Cumulative loss of prime agricultural land
Air Quality (Project and Cumulative)
› Significant cumulative impacts as a result of construction-period air pollution.
Biological Resources (Cumulative)
› Significant cumulative impacts as a result of reduction or loss of habitat.
Noise (Project and Cumulative)
› Noise generated during temporary construction activities
This Addendum will address changes resulting from implementation of the proposed modified project on
each of the environmental resource areas previously analyzed in the EIR. It confirms that all impacts
related to the proposed modified project and PG&E’s interconnection facilities are minor and will be less
than significant.
1.5
BASIS FOR AN EIR ADDENDUM
An agency may prepare an addendum to a certified EIR pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15164 that
states, in pertinent part, which “if some changes or additions are necessary but none of the conditions
described in Section 15162 calling for the preparation of a subsequent EIR have occurred.” Section
15162 states that a subsequent EIR is required if any of the following conditions exist:
(1) Substantial changes are proposed in the project which will require major revisions to the previous
EIR … due to the involvement of new significant environmental effects or a substantial increase
in the severity of previously identified effects;
(2) Substantial changes occur with respect to the circumstances under which the project is undertaken
which will require major revisions of the previous EIR … due to the involvement of new
significant environmental effects or a substantial increase in the severity of previously identified
significant effects; or
(3) New information of substantial importance, which was not known and could not have been known
with the exercise of reasonable diligence at the time the previous EIR was certified … shows any
of the following:
(A) The project will have one or more significant effects not discussed in the previous EIR;
(B) Significant effects previously examined will be substantially more severe than shown in the
previous EIR;
June 2014
1-4
(C) Mitigation measures or alternatives previously found not to be feasible would in fact be
feasible and would substantially reduce one or more significant effects of the project, but the
project proponents decline to adopt the mitigation measure or alternative; or
(D) Mitigation measures or alternatives which are considerably different from those analyzed in
the previous EIR would substantially reduce one or more significant effects on the
environment, but the project proponents decline to adopt the mitigation measure or
alternative.
Based on the evaluation provided in this Addendum, no new significant impacts would occur as a result
of the proposed modified project or utility facilities and upgrades that may be needed to interconnect the
project to PG&E’s electrical system, nor would there be any substantial increase in the severity of any
previously-identified significant environmental impact. In addition, no new information of substantial
importance shows that mitigation measures or alternatives that were previously found not to be feasible or
that are considerably different from those analyzed in the previous EIR would substantially reduce one or
more significant effects on the environment alternative. Therefore, none of the conditions described in
Section 15162 of the CEQA Guidelines has occurred. For this reason, an addendum is the appropriate
document to comply with CEQA requirements for the proposed modified project.
1.6
EVALUATION OF ALTERNATIVES
CEQA requires a comparative evaluation of a proposed project and alternatives to the project, including
the “No Project” alternative. The certified EIR addressed a reasonable range of alternatives for the
approved project. There is no new information indicating that an alternative that was previously rejected
as infeasible is in fact feasible, or that a considerably different alternative than those previously studied
would substantially reduce one or more significant effects on the environment.
1.7
ADOPTION AND AVAILABILITY OF ADDENDUM
In accordance with CEQA Guidelines Section 15164(c), an addendum to an EIR need not be circulated
for public review but can be included in or attached to the certified EIR. The decision-making body must
consider the Addendum with the certified EIR prior to making a decision on the project (CEQA
Guidelines Section 15164(d)). Although not required, this Addendum is available for public review at the
Kern County Planning and Community Development Department, 2700 “M” Street, Bakersfield,
California 93301.
June 2014
1-5
Chapter 2. Modified Project Description
Chapter 2
Modified Project Description
2.1
INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND
This chapter of the Addendum describes the modifications to the project that have been proposed by the
project proponent. The proposed modified project includes Lot Line Adjustment 23-14, which would
reconfigure the internal parcel boundaries of APNs: 184-490-31 and 184-490-33. The proposal also
includes the addition of an alternative gen-tie connection up to ½ mile to the existing PG&E distribution
line, as well as utility upgrades of existing PG&E transmission lines and facilities within the vicinity of
the project site. The duration of the construction activities would be approximately 1 to 2 months.
Modified Project Location
The regional and local setting for the proposed modified project would be unchanged. The proposed
modified project site is located in the central portion of western Kern County, Section 21, Township 31
South, Range 27 East, Mount Diablo base and meridian. It is within the jurisdictional boundaries of the
Metropolitan Bakersfield General Plan and the Metropolitan Bakersfield Habitat Conservation Plan.
Figure 2-1 shows the regional location of the proposed project site. With recordation of LLA No. 23-14,
the two parcels would be internally reconfigured to facilitate construction of the approved RE Old River
One solar facility. There is no increase in the overall acreage of the two parcels or the approved project
site.
The location of the proposed modified site, totaling approximately190 acres, is as follows:

RE Old River One Solar (CUP 63, Map 142) is a 20-MW solar electrical generating facility
(approximately 298,800 panels) on 190 acres in the A zone (exclusive agriculture) located in the
central portion of western Kern County on the south side of Shafter Road, east side of Gosford Road,
and west side of Ashe Road.
Access to the proposed modified project site would be from Shafter Road, which is designated as a
Collector by the Circulation Element of the Metropolitan Bakersfield General Plan.
Project Site and Surrounding Land Uses
The proposed modified project would reconfigure the two project parcels (APNs 184-490-31 and 33)
upon recordation of the proposed Lot Line Adjustment No. 13-24, as shown in Figure 2-4 and Figure 2-5.
The proposed modified project site is located in unincorporated portions of west-central Kern County, on
approximately 190 acres of nearly flat land that have been cultivated for cotton and alfalfa production.
The site is located on the south side of Shafter Road, north of Bear Mountain Road, east of Gosford Road,
and west of Ashe Road. Farmers Canal, which runs in north/south, is located west of the approved RE
Old River One.
June 2014
2-1
The RE Old River One site is designated Intensive Agriculture (R-IA) by the Metropolitan Bakersfield
General Plan and zoned Exclusive Agriculture (A) by the Kern County Zoning Ordinance. Existing land
uses in the project area consist of residential uses to the north, with predominantly disturbed/agricultural
land to the south, east, and west. Figure 2-2 shows the existing land use designations for the project sites
and the surrounding areas, as summarized in Table 2-1. Figure 2-3 shows the existing zoning for the
project sites and surrounding areas.
One residence is located on the RE Old River One site; however, it is not located within the area that is
being proposed for solar development. Several homes at the end of Chaidez Road are adjacent to the
southwest corner of the RE Old River One site, and five homes are located southwest of the RE Old River
One and RE Old River Two sites at Gosford Road and Kasper Mountain Court. Other homes are located
north of Shafter Road, about 100 feet north of the project sites. Tables 2-1 identifies the existing land uses
on the project sites and the surrounding parcels.
Table 2-1
Zoning and Land Use Designations of Surrounding Properties
Location
Existing Land
Use
Existing General Plan
Map Code
Designations
Existing Zoning
North
Residential and
Agriculture
RR; R-IA
A-1 MH; E(1/2) RS; E(1) RS; E(5) RS; A
East
Agriculture
R-IA
A
South
Agriculture
R-IA; 8.1
E(10) RS; A
West
Residential and
Agriculture
RR; R-IA
E(1/2) RS; A
Land Use Designations (Metro Bakersfield GP)
RR = Rural Residential (Minimum 2½ Gross Acres/Unit)
R-IA = Intensive Agriculture (Minimum 20-Acres Parcel Size)
8.1 = Intensive Agriculture (KCGP)
2.2
Zoning Classifications
A = Exclusive Agriculture
A-1 = Limited Agriculture
E(1/2) = Estate 1/2 Acre
E(1) = Estate 1 Acre
E(5) = Estate 5 Acres
E(10) = Estate 10 Acres
MH = Mobile Home Combining
RS = Residential Suburban Combining
MODIFIED PROJECT CHARACTERISTICS
The proposed modified project would change the approved project site’s internal parcel boundaries. No
changes are proposed to the nature of the project facilities, as PV panels on fixed or single-axis tracking
support structures, combiner boxes, inverters and transformers, medium-voltage collection lines, and
access roads would also be constructed on the proposed modified project site.
June 2014
2-2
The proposed modified project would include the following:
1. Approval of the Lot Line Adjustment (LLA) LLA #23-14 to reconfigure two project parcels
(APN 184-490-31, and 184-490-33) (Figure 2-4 and Figure 2-5);
While the following components of the modified project are not being considered for approval, PG&E’s
interconnection facilities are necessary for the solar generation project to operate; therefore those facilities
are part of the whole of the developer’s action that will result in a direct physical change in the
environment, or a reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment and are thus part of
the project for purposes of CEQA review only.
As outlined in Table 2-2, these components include:
1. A new gen-tie route along the north and south sides of Shafter Road within a private easement
(Figures 2-6a and 2-6b)
2. Replacement of existing wood power poles with new tubular steel poles (TSP)
3. Activities associated with a gen-tie connection to an existing power pole adjacent to project site;
4. Utilities upgrades of transmission lines adjacent to the project sites;
5. Upgrades to existing off-site PG&E substations.
Project Description for PG&E Work
At the point of the Old River One Solar Generation Interconnection 70 kV Power Line’s interconnection
with PG&E’s existing Kern-Old River No. 1 70 kV Power Line, PG&E proposes to install one new
tubular steel pole (TSP). The new TSP will be installed approximately 30 feet south of an existing wood
pole in the existing alignment of the Kern-Old River No. 1 70 kV Power Line. The existing wood pole is
approximately 70 feet, and will be removed upon installation of the new TSP. This new TSP will be
approximately 95 feet tall to meet California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) General Order 95
minimum clearance requirements, and will also meet current design standards along with supporting three
switches.
From this new TSP, the proposed Old River One Solar Generation Interconnection 70 kV Power Line
runs east approximately 140 feet to a new TSP, which will be designed, procured and constructed by
PG&E. This TSP will be approximately 85 feet tall. PG&E will own the line to this pole. From this
TSP, the generation interconnection 70 kV power line runs easterly and southerly approximately 3,000
feet to the proposed Old River One Solar Generation substation.
Tubular steel pole installation
Installation of tubular steel poles is expected to include the following steps for site preparation,
foundation installation, and pole installation. To prepare the site, the pole location will be staked. The
work area will be flagged, and required Best Management Practices (BMPs) measures implemented. If
required, a crane pad will be prepared, which may require surface blading to create a level surface. Pole
foundation installation will include: 1) excavating the hole; 2) installing forms, rebar, and anchor bolts; 3)
pouring concrete; 4) removing forms; and 5) placing gravel around and grooming the base area. After the
new pole is installed, the existing wood pole will be removed. Excess soil onsite will be feathered around
the work area, and other construction materials will be transported to an area Service Center or other
appropriate facility for disposal.
June 2014
2-3
Tubular steel poles will have concrete pier foundations approximately five feet in diameter. Tubular steel
poles will be set approximately 25 feet below ground. A line truck will be used to haul foundation forms,
anchor bolts, rebar, and pole structures to work areas. The line truck with a boom will be used to place
foundation forms, anchor bolts, and rebar in place prior to pouring of concrete for the foundation, and to
remove the forms following completion of the foundation.
A four-wheel drive concrete mixer truck capable of delivering eight yards of concrete will be used to
deliver and pour concrete for the tubular steel pole foundations. Concrete trucks may be washed out at
pole locations using the portable stations established for concrete clean-up. A backhoe will be used to
place gravel around the tubular steel pole foundation after formwork has been removed and to groom the
area surrounding the pole installations. A crane will be used to place tubular steel poles on the
foundations.
Mitigation measures applicable to the approved RE Old River One solar facility and proposed modified
project can be found in the certified EIR. These mitigation measures are not intended to grant Kern
County jurisdiction over the PG&E facilities, and any requirements in these measures to obtain permits
from or submit plans for approval to Kern County or any department thereof apply only to the project
proponent and not to PG&E.
The proposed modification is necessary to support the construction and operation of the previously
approved RE Old River One solar facility. No physical changes are proposed to the approved project, and
therefore no new, on-site impacts are anticipated.
2.3
ENTITLEMENTS REQUIRED
The required discretionary approvals needed for the proposed project include: Lot Line Adjustment
(LLA) 23-14; described as follows:
Lot Line Adjustment (LLA)
Lot Line Adjustment (LLA) 23-14 will reconfigure the parcel boundaries of Parcel 1 (APN 184490-31) and Parcel 2 (APN 184-490-33). These parcels make up the new proposed site
boundaries (See Figures 2-4 and 2-5).
June 2014
2-4
Figure 2-1. Regional Location Map
June 2014
2-5
Figure 2-2. Existing General Plan Designations
June 2014
2-6
Figure 2-3. Existing Zoning
June 2014
2-7
Figure 2-4. Lot Line Adjustment (LLA) 23-14 (Existing)
June 2014
2-8
Figure 2-5. Lot Line Adjustment (LLA) 23-14 (Proposed)
June 2014
2-9
Table 2-2
RE Old River One PG&E Work – Generation-Tie Line and Transmission Line Upgrades
Type of Work
Activities associated with the gentie connection in close proximity to
project site
Upgrade Description
Replace existing 70 foot transmission
pole with a 95-foot engineered steel
pole structure mounted with a 3 way
gang operated SCADA controlled
switch. This structure will be installed
between existing 70 foot PG&E
structures in the Kern – Old River #1
70kV line, approximately 1 mile north
of Old River Substation.
Type and # of Equipment
2-6 man crews with crane, 2 bucket
trucks and several pick-up trucks
truck-mounted auger, 1 digger
derrick, 2 aerial lift trucks
The proposed Old River One Solar
Generation Interconnection 70 kV 1-6 man crew with drilling rig and
Power Line runs east approximately several pick-up trucks. Concrete
140 feet to a new tubular steel pole, will be trucked into site.
which will be designed, procured and
constructed and owned by PG&E.
This steel pole will be approximately
85 feet tall when installed. The
generation interconnection 70 kV
power line runs easterly and southerly
approximately 3,000 feet to the
proposed Old River One Solar
Generation substation. There will be
an above ground portion of
transmission lines along the north side
of Shafter Road
Utilities upgrades of transmission
lines adjacent to the project sites
The new poles will require a drilled
pier type foundation, typically with a
six foot diameter and a depth of 25
feet. Also, the installation of a 5 feet
by 5 feet concrete foundation pad
Attach existing and/or new conductor 2-6 man crews with 2 bucket trucks
to cut the new 95 foot steel pole and several pick-up trucks.
structure into the existing Kern – Old
River #1 70kV line, and connect the
tap line to the Old River One Solar
Facility into the Kern – Old River #1
70kV line.
Trenching
for
installation
of 2-6 men, trenching and excavation
approximately 470 feet of underground equipment
cabling between Gosford Rd and
June 2014
2-10
Type of Work
Upgrades to off-site PG&E
substations
Upgrade Description
Progress Rd on N/S of Shafter Rd.
Type and # of Equipment
New transmission pole installation
along about 600 feet on the N/S of
Shafter Road and along about 1,600
feet on the S/S Shafter Road. Poles
will be approximately 60 feet in
height.
2-6 men, truck-mounted auger, 1
digger derrick, 2 aerial lift trucks, 2
pickups, single man lift truck
Installation of a shoo-fly on the Kern- pickups, single man lift truck
Old River No. 1 line to clear space to
install the new switch pole
Relay
work,
and
pre-parallel 1 -2 men and one pickup truck
inspection, testing, SCADA/EMS
setup, meters, master units etc. at the
approved Old River One solar site.
Relay work and direct transfer trip
(DTT) schemes at PG&E Kern and
Old River Substations.
SCADA/EMS, programming, testing,
and screening at the PG&E
Transmission Operation Control and
Switching Center.
A new gen-tie route along Shafter
Road using a private easement
Potential ground disturbance could
include installation of approximately
15 new 60 foot tall transmission poles. pickups, single man lift truck
June 2014
2-11
Figure 2-6a. Proposed Transmission Route and Pole Design
June 2014
2-12
Figure 2-6b. Proposed Transmission Route and Pole Design
June 2014
2-13
Chapter 3
Environmental Analysis
This Addendum evaluates the potential for the proposed modified project to result in new or substantially
more severe significant impacts compared to the impacts disclosed in the certified EIR. The
environmental analysis provided in this section describes the information that was considered in
evaluating the questions contained in the Kern County California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)
Checklist. The information used in this evaluation includes the certified EIR, the proposed modified
project description, new technical studies, literature reviews, and field reconnaissance.
The proposed modified project would incorporate and implement all mitigation measures identified in the
certified RE Old River One and RE Old River Two Solar EIR. Specific mitigation measures relevant to a
particular impact of the proposed modified project are cited in the same manner as in the EIR and the
associated Mitigation Measure Monitoring Program adopted in conjunction with the project approvals.
The Certified EIR prepared for the project originally included two (2) contiguous project sites (RE Old
River One Solar and RE Old River Two Solar). However, subsequent to the circulation of the Draft EIR,
County staff received a letter from the project proponent indicating they were withdrawing the proposed
conditional use permit for the Old River Two site (CUP 64, Map 142) in order to allow for an increased
setback of the project site from residential houses located north of Shafter Road. No new significant
environmental impacts would result from the reduction in project size or from a revised or new mitigation
measures proposed to be implemented.
June 2014
3-1
3.1
AESTHETICS
3.1.1
Setting
The visual setting of the proposed modified project and its surrounding area is the same as that of the
approved project site. The project area is cultivated land primarily used for cotton production and row
crops. Lands in the vicinity of the proposed modified project area are the same as those described in the
certified EIR. The project site is located in the southwestern portion of unincorporated Kern County
within the southernmost portion of the San Joaquin Valley. The southern end of the valley is cradled by
the southern edge of the Sierra Nevada Mountains that serve as the valley’s eastern edge, the Tehachapi
and San Emigdio Mountains converge and form the southern edge, and the Temblor Range (part of the
Coastal Ranges) is the western edge. More specifically, the RE Old River One site is located east of
Gosford Road and west of Ashe Road, and occupies 190 acres of agricultural land.
The visual integrity of the approved project site has been compromised by various human-made
alterations to the landscape. As described under the “Landscape Character Units” heading of the project’s
certified EIR, some modifications throughout the project vicinity have compromised the intactness of the
viewshed. There are no other sensitive receptors or aesthetic resources, such as scenic routes, trails, or
parkland in the immediate project vicinity.
The certified EIR evaluated the impacts of the original project size of 234 acres. Due to the decrease in
the approved project, RE Old River One (190 acres), the certified EIR overanalyzed the overall impacts of
the approved project.
3.1.2
Impact Analysis
Project Level Impacts
As in the certified EIR analysis, this chapter evaluates the potential for the proposed modified project to
result in new or substantially more severe significant impacts to aesthetics in relation to the following
questions as stated in the Kern County CEQA Checklist:
Would the project:
(a) Substantially degrade the existing visual character or quality of the site and its surroundings?
The certified EIR determined that the approved project would have potentially significant and
unavoidable impacts resulting from substantial degradation of the existing visual character or quality of
the site and its surroundings. The certified EIR considered construction of new power lines and poles as
part of the proposed project, and four alternative locations of the gen-tie lines were identified. The
proposed project modifications— a new gen-tie route along a private easement along Shafter Road,
upgrades to existing PG&E facilities as noted in Table 2-2, the installation of approximately 85 foot and
95 foot steel power poles, and an approximate ½ mile gen-tie power line and associated equipment, are
June 2014
3-2
Chapter 3. Environmental Analysis
similar in appearance to those analyzed in the certified EIR. With the elimination of RE Old River Two,
the location of the most visually imposing elements of the proposed modified project, including features
such the solar panels and associated on-site infrastructure, would be setback an additional 555 feet from
Shafter Road, thereby reducing the visual impacts of the approved project. Although the proposed pole
size is taller than those analyzed in the EIR, the addition of this pole will not significantly alter the overall
visual character of the area beyond what was analyzed in the certified EIR. There are already existing
transmission lines running along Shafter Road, as well as a series of lattice type high voltage electrical
transmission towers running in close vicinity to the approved and modified project.
Mitigation Measures MM 4.1-1 through MM 4.1-4 were identified to help reduce the visual character
impacts. These mitigation measures would further reduce impacts by requiring drought-tolerant plants to
be planted along the fence line to soften the visual impact, siting of onsite electrical collection systems
underground to the extent feasible and clearing of debris from the project area at least twice per year and
posting of signage. Even with implementation of MM 4.1-1 through MM 4.1-3, impacts of the approved
project would still be considered significant and unavoidable.
The proposed lot line adjustment (LLA 23-14) intends to reconfigure the boundaries of the two parcels,
and as such would have no visual impact on the site or surrounding area. The proposed PG&E facility
upgrades in and of themselves are minor in nature, particularly in the context of the proposed solar
project, and many of the upgrades would be implemented internally within existing PG&E facilities, as
noted in Table 2-2. These upgrades, including the proposed gen-tie line, installation of new approximately
85foot and 95 foot transmission poles, and associated equipment, as well as internal upgrades to the Kern
and Old River substations, will be located in areas with existing transmission/substation infrastructure or
across currently cultivated ground, resulting in a small visual change. The impacts of the proposed off-site
upgrades to existing PG&E facilities would be of similar size and appearance to equipment currently on
the site, and therefore would result in a less than significant impact. Therefore, aesthetic impacts
associated with the proposed PG&E facility upgrades identified in Tables 2-2 would remain less than
significant.
The proposed modifications to the project do not change the finding in the certified EIR of significant and
unavoidable. Based on the foregoing, no new or revised mitigation measures are required..
Mitigation Measures
No new or revised mitigation measures are required beyond those included in the previously certified
Final EIR.
Level of Significance after Mitigation
The proposed modifications to the project do not change the finding in the certified Final EIR of
significant and unavoidable.
(b) Create a new source of substantial light or glare which would adversely affect day or nighttime views
in the area?
June 2014
3-3
The proposed lot line adjustment (LLA 23-14) would have no light or glare impact on the site or
surrounding area. Lighting on the approved project site will be limited to small-scale security lighting,
and the dominant feature of the project, the solar panels, were determined to result in less glare than
typical residential or commercial glass. Installation of the proposed upgrades to existing PG&E facilities
and infrastructure would be temporary in nature and conducted during daylight hours. Once these
components are installed, no new lighting or glare-producing features will be introduced. Therefore the
activities related to the proposed modified project would not create substantial light or glare and would be
considered a less than significant impact.
The proposed modified project would not introduce new equipment or facilities which would increase
lighting or glare impacts. The EIR determined that with the implementation of Mitigation Measures 4.1-5
through 4.1-7 and compliance with development standards, the Kern County Zoning Ordinance, as well
as the goals, policies and implementation measures of the Kern County General Plan would reduce the
potential for spillover lighting to adversely affect residents, motorists, recreationists, and workers to a less
than significant level. These measures would ensure that the project will not create substantial light or
glare that could affect views in the area by requiring project facility lighting to use only the minimum
illumination required, mandating the use of non-reflective building materials where appropriate, and
requiring the use of solar panels and hardware which minimize glare and spectral highlighting to the
extent feasible. Privacy slats woven into the perimeter fencing and landscaping around the project
perimeter would also help reduce potential glare from the approved project.
Implementation of these mitigation measures would also be obligatory for the proposed modified project.
The proposed modifications to the project and the off-site upgrades to PG&E facilities do not change the
finding in the certified EIR. Therefore, aesthetic impacts associated with the proposed PG&E facility
upgrades would not result in additional impacts beyond what was previously analyzed, and the aesthetic
impacts related to glare associated with PG&E facility upgrades would remain less than significant. The
proposed modifications to the project do not change the finding in the certified EIR of less than
significant. Based on the foregoing, no new or revised mitigation measures are required.
Mitigation Measures
Final EIR.
The proposed modifications to the project do not change the finding in the certified Final EIR of less than
significant.
Cumulative Impacts
The EIR concluded that the impacts of the approved project will combine with impacts of past, present,
and reasonably foreseeable projects to create a substantial adverse effect on the aesthetics of the approved
project site and its surroundings, and would, therefore, contribute to significant and unavoidable
cumulative impacts.
June 2014
3-4
The analysis presented above has determined that a significant and unavoidable cumulative impact
has been identified for the approved solar facility and associated infrastructure only.
The proposed PG&E facility upgrades in and of themselves are minor in nature, particularly in the context
of the proposed solar project, and many of the upgrades would be implemented internally within existing
PG&E facilities, as noted in Table 2-2. These upgrades, including the proposed gen-tie line, the
installation of approximately 85 foot and 95 foot steel power poles and internal substation upgrades, will
be located adjacent to other transmission lines or in areas with existing transmission/substation
infrastructure, resulting in a small, incremental visual change. Therefore, aesthetic impacts associated
with the proposed PG&E facility upgrades would not result in additional impacts beyond what was
previously analyzed, and the cumulative aesthetic impacts associated with PG&E facility upgrades would
remain less than significant at the cumulative level
The proposed project modification would also increase the mechanical character of the viewshed by
introducing additional utility-grade infrastructure, thereby changing the area’s character from rural,
agricultural, open space to an industrial nature. However, the proposed project modification would not
generate substantially more adverse cumulative impacts to aesthetics and visual resources than those
disclosed in the certified EIR and would be mitigated to the maximum extent practicable by the
incorporation of all feasible and applicable mitigation measures. In addition, due to the fact that the
proposed modified project site was reduced in size compared to what was originally analyzed in the
certified EIR, the original anticipated project impacts will therefore be reduced as well.
Mitigation Measures
Final EIR.
The proposed modifications to the project do not change the finding in the certified Final EIR of a
significant and unavoidable impact.
June 2014
3-5
3.2
AGRICULTURE AND FOREST RESOURCES
3.2.1
SETTING
The certified EIR included an analysis of approximately 234 acres of nearly flat land that were previously
cultivated for agricultural production. According to the certified EIR, RE Old River Site Two is
completely within the boundaries of Agricultural Preserve No. 10, and Site One is partially within the
boundaries of Agricultural Preserve No. 10. The proposed modified project area does not involve
development of Site Two (44 acres), which therefore, minimizes the overall project area that is located
within the boundaries of Agricultural Preserve No. 10.
3.2.2
IMPACT ANALYSIS
Project Impacts
As in the certified EIR analysis, this Chapter evaluates the potential for the proposed modified project to
result in new or substantially more adverse significant impacts to agriculture and forest resources in
relation to the following questions as stated in the Kern County CEQA Checklist:
Would the project:
(a) Convert Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, or Farmland of Statewide Importance (Farmland), as
shown on the maps prepared pursuant to the Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program of the
California Resources Agency, to nonagricultural use?
The project sites analyzed in the EIR primarily consist of land classified as Prime Farmland and Farmland
of Statewide importance as indicated by the California Department of Conservation Farmland Mapping
and Monitoring Program (FMMP). Also, as indicated by the Kern County Online Mapping System, Site 2
is completely within the boundaries of Agricultural Preserve No. 10, and Site 1 is partially within the
boundaries of Agricultural Preserve No. 10. The proposed modified project area does not include
development of Site 2 (44 acres), which therefore, reduces the overall project impacts to land identified as
“farmland” by the FMMP.
The approved project site is adjacent to land with ongoing agricultural operations on the south and west
boundaries, as well as land across Ashe Road to the east; however, properties across Shafter Road to the
north has been converted to a more urban uses, and predominately residentially developed with single
family dwellings. Operation of the proposed modified project would not result in the conversion of
adjacent land uses to nonagricultural uses. Additionally, the approved project design includes buffer areas
around the perimeter of the project sites, to reduce impacts to surrounding properties. As with the
approved project, the proposed modified project would be compatible with nearby agricultural operations
and would not create significant offsite impacts. It has been determined that, with an approved CUP, the
operation of solar facilities would be a compatible use on agriculturally zoned property. The proposed
modified project, including the upgrades to existing PG&E facilities and equipment would not result in
further conversions of agricultural land. The agricultural activities would be able to continue
uninterrupted.
June 2014
3-6
The certified EIR determined that the loss of 234 acres of farmland is considered significant, even with
the implementation of Mitigation Measure MM 4.2-1. Implementation of the original project would result
in the loss of land that has been designated for agricultural use. Mitigation Measure MM 4.2-1 would
require the project proponent to mitigate the loss of agricultural land at a ratio of 1:1. Even with
implementation of this mitigation measure, it has been determined that the loss of 234 acres of farmland is
a significant and unavoidable impact. Although the mitigation preserves farmland that may otherwise be
converted to nonagricultural use in the future, it does not provide additional farmland to replace the
original 234 acres lost as a result of the project. Therefore, after mitigation, the EIR concluded that the
original project would convert Prime Farmland and Farmland of Statewide Importance to a
nonagricultural use, which is considered a significant and unavoidable impact. The analysis presented
above has determined that a significant and unavoidable impact has been identified for the proposed solar
facility and associated infrastructure only.
As noted above, with the withdrawal of RE Old River Two, the proposed modified project site will not
develop the 44 acres that was initially analyzed under the certified EIR. Because of this reduction of loss
of designated agriculture land, the proposed modified project site will not have any additional impacts.
The proposed lot line adjustment (LLA 23-14) intends to reconfigure the internal boundaries of the two
parcels, and as such would have no agricultural impact on the site or surrounding area. The proposed
modifications include a new gen-tie route along a private easement along Shafter Road, upgrades to
existing PG&E facilities noted in Table 2-2, the installation of approximately 85 foot and 95 foot steel
power poles, and up to ½ mile gen-tie power line and associated equipment. Portions of that route are
designated as Farmland of Statewide Importance and Grazing lands by the FMMP. However, the two
undeveloped parcels that will be utilized for the new gen-tie route along the north side of Shafter Road are
zoned for residential use, and are not cultivated nor subject to a Williamson Act Land Use contract. As
such, these properties would never be under agricultural cultivation, and therefore, no impacts are
anticipated.
The proposed PG&E facility upgrades identified in Tables 2-2 are small in scale and would not result in a
significant and unavoidable loss of agricultural lands. The existing PG&E Kern and Old River substations
facility would potentially require minor upgrades internal to the existing facilities, would not result in an
expansion of the stations’ footprints, and would not result in the loss of any agricultural land. Therefore,
agricultural land impacts associated with the proposed PG&E facility upgrades are determined to be less
than significant at the project level.
Therefore, the designated farmland within the proposed modified project area would result in no new
impacts compared to what was originally determined. The proposed modifications to the project do not
change the finding in the certified EIR of significant and unavoidable. Based on the foregoing, no new or
revised mitigation measures are required.
Mitigation Measures
Final EIR.
June 2014
3-7
significant and unavoidable impact.
(b) Conflict with existing zoning for agricultural use or a Williamson Act contract?
According to Kern County Zoning Ordinance, Section 19.12.030, solar facilities are permitted with an
approved CUP within an A zone district. The approved project includes one conditional use permit (CUP)
to allow for the development of a 20 MW solar facility. The approved project site is zoned A (Exclusive
Agriculture) and is not under a Williamson Act Land Use contract. As a result, the proposed project
would not conflict with existing zoning and therefore, conversion of agricultural land on the project site
would result in a less than significant impact.
Although the proposed modified project site is not under a Williamson Act contract, some of the adjacent
land is under contract. However, operation of the proposed project would not compel the cancellation of
Williamson Act land use contracts or shorten the length of their terms. The proposed project would not
result in the conversion of adjacent land uses to nonagricultural uses, nor would it interfere with farming
activities in the area. Therefore, operation of the proposed project would not affect or conflict with
adjacent properties that may be under Williamson Act land use contracts.
The proposed lot line adjustment (LLA 23-14) would reconfigure the internal boundaries of the proposed
project site, and as such would have no impact related to continued farming or a Williamson Act Land
Use contract on the site or surrounding area. The existing PG&E Kern and Old River substations would
require minor upgrades internal to the facilities as noted in Table 2-2, would not result in an expansion of
the stations’ footprint, and would not result in the loss of any agricultural land. Therefore, impacts related
to land under a Williamson Act Land Use contract associated with the proposed PG&E facility upgrades
would be less than significant at the project level.
The proposed modifications to the project do not change the finding in the certified EIR of less than
Mitigation Measures
Final EIR.
significant.
(c) Involve other changes in the existing environment that, due to their location or nature, could result in
the conversion of farmland to nonagricultural use or conversion of forestland to non-forest use?
June 2014
3-8
The proposed project would result in the conversion of land zoned for agriculture to a nonagricultural use.
As noted above, a mix of existing and proposed land uses surrounds the project sites. Land zoned for
agricultural use in the immediate vicinity of the sites is either used for crop production or is undisturbed.
There are no areas of forestland located in the vicinity of the project site. There are properties zoned for
residential uses that are developed with single-family dwellings directly north of the project sites.
Development of the proposed project would only occur within the confines of the project site boundaries.
Since no other changes are expected to the existing environment, the proposed project would not result in
the conversion of farmland to non-farmland uses on adjacent properties, and it is not anticipated that the
proposed project would affect adjacent agricultural land during operations.
The approved project would convert agricultural land to accommodate development of future solar
facilities. Solar facilities are considered to be a consistent use and are permitted on properties zoned for
exclusive or limited agricultural use with the approval of a CUP. Therefore, with approval of the CUP
request, the proposed project is consistent with and does not conflict with the existing zoning of the
project sites.
Additionally, the project consists of stand-alone solar energy facilities that are unlikely to attract urban
development and will not directly or indirectly result in a discontiguous pattern of urban development. As
a result, this impact is considered to be less than significant. Therefore, the proposed modified project
would not include activities that would restrict or impair agricultural production or otherwise impact the
uses that exist on adjacent land. Because no other changes are expected to the existing environment as a
result of activities proposed in the project area, the proposed project would not result in the conversion of
farmland to non-farmland uses on adjacent properties.
Because no other changes to the existing environment resulting from activities on the project site are
expected, the proposed project would not result in the conversion of farmland to nonfarmland uses on
adjacent properties. With implementation of MM 4.2-2 and MM 4.8-1, impacts would be less than
significant.
The proposed modified project will not result in any new or substantially more adverse impacts relating to
conversion of farmland than considered in the certified EIR. The proposed lot line adjustment (LLA 2314) would reconfigure the boundaries of the two parcels, and as such would have no impact relating to
conversion of farmland on the site or surrounding area. The proposed PG&E facility upgrades in and of
themselves are minor in nature, particularly in the context of the proposed solar project, and many of the
upgrades would be implemented internally within existing PG&E facilities, as noted in Table 2-2. These
upgrades, including the proposed gen-tie line, installation of a new approximately 85 foot and 95 foot
transmission pole, and associated equipment, as well as internal upgrades to the Kern and Old River
substations, will be located in areas with existing transmission/substation infrastructure. Temporary
impacts from the proposed gen-tie line within a private easement includes installation of transmission line
poles on approximately 1,300 feet of an uncultivated field on the south side of Shafter Road. Given the
fact that installation of new transmission poles does not preclude the continued agricultural use on the
entire property and only impacts a small fraction of the total available acres, this impact would be
considered less than significant. The proposed gen-tie route within a private easement on the north side of
June 2014
3-9
Shafter Road is on property zoned for residential development, and therefore would not impact
agricultural activities. The small amount of uncultivated land to be used for the proposed gen-tie route
would not result in an impact greater than what was analyzed and considered in the certified EIR. No
additional impacts to agricultural resources would occur, and impacts are considered less than significant
for upgrades to existing PG&E facilities associated with the proposed modified project.
Therefore, the majority of designated farmland within the proposed modified project area is not
considered productive agricultural land, and its conversion to use for the gen-tie route would result in a
less-than-significant impact. With the implementation of MM 4.2-2 and MM 4.8-1, the proposed
modifications to the project do not change the finding in the certified EIR of less than significant. Based
on the foregoing, no new or revised mitigation measures are required.
Mitigation Measures
Final EIR.
significant.
(d)
Result in the cancellation of an open space contract made pursuant to the California Land
Conservation Act 1965 or a Farmland Security Zone Contract for any parcel of 100 or more Acres (PRC
Section 15206(b)(3)).)?
The proposed modified project would not directly result in the cancellation of an open space contract
made pursuant to the California Land Conservation Act of 1965 or Farmland Security Zone Contract for
any parcel of 100 or more acres (Section 15206(b)(3) Public Resources Code). Therefore, impacts to
agricultural zoning or Williamson Act Land Use Contracts on the project sites are not anticipated and are
considered less than significant. Although there are existing Williamson Act Land Use contracted land
within the vicinity of the project sites, the proposed modified project site would not encourage the
cancellation of any Williamson Act land use contract or shorten the length of the term.
the cancellation of an Open Space Contract than what was considered in the certified EIR. The proposed
lot line adjustment (LLA 23-14) and the proposed PG&E facility upgrades would have no impact on the
site or surrounding area. No additional impacts to agricultural resources would occur, and impacts are
considered less than significant for upgrades to existing PG&E facilities, as well as those associated with
the proposed modified project.
significant. Based on the forgoing, no new or revised mitigation measures are required.
June 2014
3-10
Mitigation Measures
Final EIR.
significant.
Cumulative Impacts
The approved project would convert approximately 190 acres of productive agricultural land to
nonagricultural use to accommodate the development of solar facilities, which is less than the 234-acre
project site analyzed in the certified EIR. Under Impact 4.2-1, it was concluded that even with the
implementation of Mitigation Measure MM 4.2-1, the conversion of Prime Farmland and Farmland of
Statewide Importance would result in a significant and unavoidable impact. Additionally, cumulative
impacts resulting from the original project, when combined with impacts from other proposed projects in
the area, would also be considered significant and unavoidable.
Solar facilities are a permitted use on areas zoned A (Exclusive Agriculture) with approval of a CUP.
Therefore, implementation of the approved project would be consistent and would not conflict with the
existing the zoning on all sites. The certified EIR found that cumulative impacts related to the loss of
farmland would be significant and unavoidable. However, the proposed modified project will not result
in any new cumulative impacts relating to agriculture and forest resources than what was considered in
the certified EIR. With the exception of an about 1,300 feet of uncultivated fields outside the approved
project site boundaries to be used for the gen-tie connection, as well as the potential upgrades to existing
PG&E transmission line facilities the modified project site will not cumulatively impact agricultural or
forest resources.
The analysis presented above has determined that a significant and unavoidable impact has been
identified for the approved solar facility and associated infrastructure only.
The proposed PG&E facility upgrades identified in Tables 32-2 are small in scale and would not
result in a cumulative significant and unavoidable impact to agricultural resources. Furthermore,
Mitigation Measure MM 4.2-1 provides for the mitigation of agricultural resources at a ratio of 1:1
for land of similar agricultural quality or higher. Given the limited nature of the proposed PG&E
facility upgrades on site and within existing substations, the cumulative loss of agricultural land
associated with the proposed PG&E facility upgrades is considered less than significant.
The proposed modified project will not result in any new cumulative impacts not relating to agriculture
and forest resources than what was considered in the certified EIR. Therefore, the project modifications to
the project do not change the findings in the certified EIR of significant and unavoidable. Based on the
foregoing, no new or revised mitigation measures are required.
June 2014
3-11
Mitigation Measures
Final EIR.
significant and unavoidable,.
June 2014
3-12
3.3
AIR QUALITY
3.3.1
Setting
The environmental setting for air quality is the same as described in the certified EIR; however, the
proposed modified project site has reduced in size compared to what was originally analyzed in the
certified EIR. The approved project would develop 190 acres of land for a 20 MW solar facility; however
the EIR analyzed the proposed development of approximately 234 acres of land for two solar facilities
with a combined output of 25 MW. Therefore impacts of the approved project to air quality are
anticipated to be of a lesser intensity. As was described in the EIR, the proposed project modifications
are located in the San Joaquin Valley Air Basin (SJVAB) and are under the jurisdiction of the San
Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District (SJVAPCD).
The SJVAPCD has identified quantitative emission thresholds for NOX, PM10, and ROG to determine
whether the potential air quality impacts of a project may produce a significant impact. The air quality
threshold for NOX and ROG is 10 tons per year. The threshold for PM10 is 15 tons per year, established
as the limit at which an impact on the SJVAB may occur. No regional emission thresholds have been
established for CO, PM2.5, and SOX.
3.3.2
Impact Analysis
Project Impacts
As in the certified EIR analysis, this Chapter evaluates the potential for the proposed project to result in
new or substantially more adverse significant impacts to air quality in relation to the following questions
as stated in the CEQA Checklist:
Would the project:
(a) Conflict with or obstruct implementation of the applicable air quality plan?
The certified EIR concluded that the approved project would not exceed the significance thresholds for
emissions established by the SJVAPCD. The primary source of emissions from the approved project
would be traffic from vehicles that are licensed through the State of California and whose emissions are
already incorporated into the CARB’s San Joaquin Valley Emissions Inventory. Therefore, construction
and operation of the proposed project would not conflict with an applicable air quality plan. Mitigation
would not be required to reduce project impacts to less-than-significant levels. Emissions from operation
would be substantially less than significance thresholds. Therefore, operation and maintenance of the
proposed modified project would not conflict with or obstruct implementation of the applicable air quality
plan.
June 2014
3-13
The proposed modified project includes Lot Line Adjustment 23-14, which would reconfigure the internal
parcel boundaries of APNs: 184-490-31 and 184-490-33 and would have no impact. The proposal also
includes the addition of an alternative gen-tie connection up to ½ mile to the existing PG&E distribution
line, as well as utility upgrades of existing PG&E transmission lines and facilities within the vicinity of
the project site. These upgrades in and of themselves are minor in nature, particularly in the context of the
proposed solar project, and many of the upgrades would be implemented internally within existing PG&E
facilities. PG&E facility upgrades noted in Table 2-2, would not change the conclusion that the project
would not change the conclusion that the project would not result in obstruct or conflict with an
applicable air quality plan, and the aforementioned upgrades would primarily occur within alreadydisturbed areas and would not lead to air quality effects beyond those identified in the certified EIR.
Therefore, air quality impacts associated with the proposed PG&E facility upgrades would not result in
additional impacts beyond what was previously analyzed, and the impacts related to air quality associated
with PG&E facility upgrades would remain less than significant.
Because of this, the project would not change the conclusion that the project would not result in obstruct
or conflict with an applicable air quality plan, and the aforementioned upgrades would primarily occur
within already-disturbed areas and would not lead to air quality effects beyond those identified in the
certified EIR. As noted above, the EIR analyzed the impacts generated by the ground disturbance and
construction activities on a combined 234 acres. The approved RE Old River One project would develop
only 190 acres of land, and the remaining 44 acres would remain undisturbed. Impacts to air quality by
the approved project would be less than those described in the EIR.
significant. No new or revised mitigation measures are required.
Mitigation Measures
Final EIR.
significant.
(b) Violate any air quality standard or contribute substantially to an existing or projected air quality
Standard?
The certified EIR concluded that with the implementation of MM 4.3-1 through 4.3-3, the project would
not violate an applicable air quality standard or contribute substantially to an existing or projected air
quality violation. As shown in Table 4.3-10 of the project’s certified EIR, mitigated emissions during
construction would not exceed any SJVAPCD threshold adopted by Kern County. As shown in Table 4.310 of the project’s certified EIR, operational emissions would be well below SJVAPCD thresholds
adopted by Kern County. The modified project and associated PG&E upgrades would not result in
substantially increased emissions compared with the previously analyzed project site under the certified
EIR. Therefore, air quality impacts associated with the proposed PG&E facility upgrades would not result
June 2014
3-14
in additional air quality impacts beyond what was previously analyzed, and would remain less than
significant.
significant impacts. Based on the foregoing, no new or revised mitigation measures are required.
Mitigation Measures
Final EIR.
significant.
(c) Result in a Cumulatively Considerable Net Increase of Any Criteria Pollutant for which the Project
Region Is in Nonattainment under an Applicable Federal or State Ambient Air Quality Standard.
As noted in Table 4.3-2 of the certified EIR, the SJVAB is a nonattainment area for the state 1-hour
ozone, 8-hour ozone, PM10, and PM2.5 standards and a nonattainment area for federal 8-hour ozone and
PM2.5 standards. As shown in Table 4.3-9 of the certified EIR, the proposed project’s annual mitigated
air emissions from construction would not exceed any SJVAPCD threshold adopted by Kern County. As
shown in Table 4.3-10 of the certified EIR, the proposed project’s operational emissions of these
pollutants would be below SJVAPCD annual thresholds and minimal. Therefore, the proposed modified
project is not expected to create a considerable net increase in any criteria pollutant for which the project
region is in nonattainment under the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) or the California
Ambient Air Quality Standards (CAAQS). Additionally, air quality impacts associated with the proposed
PG&E facility upgrades would not result in additional impacts beyond what was previously analyzed, and
are not expected to create a considerable net increase in any criteria pollutant. Impacts related to PG&E
facility upgrades would remain less than significant. The proposed modifications to the project do not
change the finding in the certified EIR of less than significant. Based on the foregoing, no new or revised
mitigation measures are required.
Mitigation Measures
Final EIR.
significant.
(d) Expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant concentrations?
June 2014
3-15
The approved project will include the development of 190 acres of land, which is less than what was
analyzed in the EIR. Implementation of required regulatory dust reduction measures would reduce the
impacts of fugitive dust on nearby receptors. As shown above, the approved project’s construction and
operational emissions of criteria pollutants would be within SJVAPCD yearly thresholds and would not
affect nearby sensitive receptors. Operation of the approved project would have negligible air quality
impacts on nearby sensitive receptors, as no staff will be permanently on site. Maintenance activities will
be conducted periodically, and ongoing monitoring will be conducted from an off-site location.
Furthermore, the project subareas are not underlain by the type of sediments that are known to contain
Valley Fever spores. Compliance with SJVAPCD regulations as well as implementation of required
mitigation measures would reduce the amount of fugitive dust and the risk of contracting Valley Fever.
This would reduce this potential impact to a less than significant level. Therefore, the project
development would result in less than significant impacts related to exposure of sensitive receptors to
substantial pollutant concentrations.
The proposed modified project would reconfigure parcel boundaries and would have no impact. The
addition of a new gen-tie line up to ½ mile in length, installation of a new approximately 85 foot and 95
foot transmission pole and associated equipment, as well as upgrades to existing PG&E facilities noted in
Table 2-2 would not change the conclusion that the project would not result in substantial pollutant
concentrations, and the aforementioned upgrades would primarily occur within already-disturbed areas
and would not lead to air quality effects beyond those identified in the certified EIR.
For these reasons, the proposed modifications to the project do not change the finding in the certified EIR
of less than significant. Based on the foregoing, no new or revised mitigation measures are required.
Mitigation Measures
Final EIR.
significant.
(e) Cause the creation of objectionable odors, affecting a substantial number of people?
The approved project consists of the construction and operation of a 20 MW solar facility on 190 acres,
which is not a facility that is expected to be a source of odors as defined by the GAMAQI. Occasionally,
diesel equipment exhaust can generate objectionable odors, but these are considered temporary in nature
and will dissipate very quickly. Thus, neither construction nor operation of the approved project would
result in the creation of, or frequent exposure to, an objectionable odor; and odor impacts would be less
than significant without mitigation.
The proposed modified project lot line adjustment (LLA 23-14) intends to reconfigure the parcel
boundaries and would have no impact. The addition of a new gen-tie line of up to ½ mile in length, as
June 2014
3-16
well as the PG&E facility upgrades noted in Table 2-2, would not change the conclusion that the project
would not result in the creation of objectionable odors. Therefore, based on the analyzed predicted project
emissions during construction and operational phases from the certified EIR, the proposed project
modifications are not expected to have any adverse impacts due to objectionable odors on any known
sensitive receptor. . The proposed modifications to the project do not change the finding in the certified
EIR of less than significant. Based on the foregoing, no new or revised mitigation measures are required.
Mitigation Measures
Final EIR.
significant.
Cumulative Impacts
The certified EIR concluded that the impacts of the approved project will combine with impacts of past,
present, and reasonably foreseeable projects to create a substantial adverse effect on air quality during the
construction period and would, therefore, result in significant and unavoidable. However, the approved
project’s contribution to cumulative impacts would not be cumulatively considerable because the
construction emissions alone would not exceed SJVAPCD or Kern County significance thresholds. In
addition, construction emissions from the proposed project would be minimized by compliance with
Rules 8021 and 9510.
The development of solar power generation has positive air quality impacts by providing electricity that
would otherwise come from other sources, a significant portion of which produce air pollution through
the burning of fossil fuels. Overall, the projects in the cumulative analysis would create a minimal
operational -period emissions impact related to air quality.
However, as noted in Table 4.3-11 of the certified EIR, in addition to the proposed project, a number of
other solar projects are currently proposed within the SJVAB. While the exact power-generating size,
acreage, and construction schedules being proposed for these new solar facilities are unknown at this
time, it is assumed that cumulative impacts, specifically for temporary construction emissions related to
the approved project, would be significant and unavoidable.
The majority of project emissions would occur temporarily during the construction phase. After that, there
would be minimal emissions and insignificant cumulative impacts during operation of the approved
project.
As previously noted the approved project would reduce the overall impacts to air quality since the
approved project site is approximately 44 acres less than what was originally analyzed under the certified
June 2014
3-17
EIR. In addition, the lessened proposed project impacts would be mitigated to the maximum extent
practicable by the incorporation of the mitigation measures identified in the certified EIR.
The proposed modified project lot line adjustment (LLA 23-14) would reconfigure the parcel boundaries
and would have no cumulative impact. The addition of a new gen-tie line up to ½ mile in length as well as
the PG&E facility upgrades noted in Table 2-2, would not change the conclusion that the project would
not create new or substantially more adverse cumulative impacts to air quality than those disclosed in the
certified EIR and would be mitigated to the maximum extent practicable by the incorporation of
Mitigation Measures MM 4.3-1 through MM 4.3-3.
identified for the approved solar facility and associated infrastructure only. Because of the limited nature
of the proposed PG&E facility upgrades, the temporary air pollutant emissions associated with
construction of the upgrades noted in Table 2-2 would not exceed significance thresholds for
construction. The proposed PG&E facility upgrades’ incremental contribution to construction emissions
is an insubstantial fraction of the overall modeled construction emissions and is therefore not
cumulatively considerable. Implementation of PG&E’s BPMs and APMs would further ensure that
construction air quality impacts of PG&E facility upgrades would be minimized. Temporary cumulative
impacts from construction associated with the PG&E facility upgrades are therefore considered to be less
than significant.
Mitigation Measures
Final EIR.
cumulative significant and unavoidable impact during construction.
June 2014
3-18
3.4
BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES
3.4.1
SETTING
The EIR included a comprehensive analysis of special-status and sensitive species, local habitats and
vegetation communities, and jurisdictional waters over the approved project site. Detailed information on
survey methods and findings is presented in the certified EIR Appendix D. Preparation of these studies
required an evaluation of existing information available from the California Department of Fish &
Wildlife (CDFW), U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS), California Native Plant Society (CNPS), and
various environmental documents prepared for past projects in the region. A supplemental report was
prepared for this addendum. The Reconnaissance-level Biological Survey was conducted for specialstatus species along the proposed new right-of-way located on the north side of Shafter Road (Quad
Knopf, 2014; Addendum EIR Appendix A). The survey was conducted in support of an amendment to the
existing certified EIR for relocation of the gen-tie in line from its original planned ROW. Because
construction will occur during the bird nesting season, attention was also given to the potential for
impacts to nesting birds. No special-status species or their sign were observed and no active nesting birds
were observed during the survey. The proposed project site does not provide any suitable conditions for
nesting birds.
The environmental setting for biological resources is the same as described in the certified EIR; however,
the proposed modified project site has reduced in size compared to what was originally analyzed in the
certified EIR. The approved project would develop 190 acres of land for a 20 MW solar facility; however
the EIR analyzed the proposed development of approximately 234 acres of land for two solar facilities
with a combined output of 25 MW. Therefore, the impacts to biological resources of the proposed
modified project are anticipated to be of a lessen intensity that those previously described.
3.4.2
IMPACT ANALYSIS
Project Impacts
As in the certified EIR analysis, this Addendum evaluates the potential for the proposed project
modification to result in new or substantially more severe significant impacts to biological resources in
Would the project:
(a) Have a substantial adverse effect, either directly or through habitat modifications, on any species
identified as a candidate, sensitive, or special status species in local or regional plans, policies, or
regulations, or by the California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG) [Now California
Department of Fish and Wildlife] or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS)?
The approved project sites are periodically subject to agricultural use and are surrounded by active
agriculture on three sides (east, south, and west). Residential development occurs to the north. Farmers
Canal, which provides irrigation water to the area, traverses a portion of the western parcel boundary,
exits the parcel, and continues north/south flow on the neighboring parcel. Because the parcels have been
frequently disked, there was little vegetation growing at these sites during the biological surveys. The
June 2014
3-19
approved project area was surveyed for evidence of wildlife presence or activity, and scanned with
binoculars for potential avian nest sites. All wildlife species observed or detected by sign were recorded.
Construction
Based on the results of the reconnaissance surveys and review of CNDDB records conducted for the
approved project, two special-status plant species: Horn’s milk-vetch and Lost Hills crownscale, as well
as four special-status wildlife species: burrowing owl, giant kangaroo rat, Tipton kangaroo rat, and San
Joaquin kit fox, are known to occur within 5 miles of the approved project site. However, the project site
and gen tie-line alternatives do not contain suitable habitat for giant kangaroo rat or Tipton kangaroo rat;
therefore, these species are not expected to occur on site and are not addressed further within this
analysis. It was determined that burrowing owl, Swainson’s hawk, and San Joaquin kit fox had the
potential to occur within the vicinity of the project sites:
Because the site could occasionally be used for dispersal and/or foraging in the future, mitigation is
required to reduce the impacts associated with take of the above species. Measures to reduce constructionrelated impacts include implementation of Mitigation Measures MM 4.4-1, MM 4.4-2, MM 4.4-3, and
MM 4.4-5 to minimize the risk of harm to kit foxes and burrowing owl during construction, and would
reduce impacts to less than significant levels. Additionally, nesting habitat does, however, occur within
the transmission towers and large trees adjacent to the sites. Therefore, the proposed project could result
in indirect effects to protected nesting migratory birds if implemented during the nesting season (February
through August). Implementation of Mitigation Measures MM 4.4-1, MM 4.4-4 MM 4.4-5 would
minimize the risk of harm to any nesting migratory birds during construction, and would reduce potential
impacts to less than significant levels.
The reconnaissance survey conducted for the proposed modified project concluded that although several
small mammal digs were observed on site during the time of survey, no potential San Joaquin kit fox
dens, burrowing owl burrows, or other threatened or endangered species sign was observed. No other
threatened/endangered wildlife species, their sign, or any listed plant species were observed on proposed
modified project site, including the proposed gen-tie route, during the time of survey. Additionally,
multiple bird species were identified, as well as an abundance of potential nesting habitat, however, no
nests or nesting activity was observed by the surveying biologist. The proposed modified project area lies
along an existing road, through agricultural fields and near rural homes, and appears highly and
continuously disturbed. Though sensitive species have been historically known to inhabit in the general
area, due to its level and consistency of disturbance, it is unlikely to provide suitable habitat for these
species. Construction impacts on special-status species would be reduced to less than significant with the
implementation of MM 4.4-1 though MM 4.4-5. Therefore, it is concluded that the impacts evaluated in
the certified EIR will accurately reflect the approved project’s impacts with the proposed modified project
activities. For these reasons, the proposed modifications to the project do not change the finding in the
certified EIR of less than significant. Additionally, impacts associated with the proposed PG&E facility
upgrades noted in Table 2-2 would not result in additional impacts to biological resources beyond what
was previously analyzed, and PG&E facility upgrades would remain less than significant.
Operations
It is anticipated that the approved project would reduce use of the site by special-status species because it
would impede use of the sites for foraging, nesting, and denning by such species. It is also anticipated that
June 2014
3-20
the cessation of agricultural-related disking, even with the installation of solar arrays, could result in
increased vegetative production and a high likelihood of colonization by a variety of wildlife. It is
reasonable to expect that special-status species would take advantage of this newly formed habitat. Thus,
if these species are present at the project sites during operation there would be an increased potential for
vehicle strikes.
Mitigation Measure MM 4.4-5 would reduce impacts to less-than-significant levels by implementing
measures designed to reduce wildlife mortality and ensure long-term site suitability, and by educating
onsite personnel. Additionally, Mitigation Measure MM 4.4-5 would afford additional protection of San
Joaquin kit fox during the operational period. Operational impacts on special-status species would be
reduced to less-than-significant levels with mitigation incorporated.
and would have no impact to biological resources. The addition of a new gen-tie line up to ½ mile in
length, installation of a new approximately 85 foot and 95 foot transmission pole, and associated
equipment, as well as the PG&E facility upgrades noted in Table 2-2, would not change the conclusion
that with implementation of MM 4.4-1 through MM 4.4-5, the project would not result in significant
impacts to sensitive or special status species in local or regional plans, policies, or regulations, and the
aforementioned upgrades and expansions would primarily occur within already-disturbed areas and would
not lead to impacts to biological resources beyond those identified in the certified EIR. The construction
activity associated with the project modifications will primarily be conducted on currently cultivated, or
existing, disturbed or developed land without the appropriate habitat to support sensitive species.
Therefore, it is concluded that the impacts evaluated in the certified EIR will accurately reflect the
project’s impacts with the proposed modified project activities. For these reasons, the proposed
on the forgoing, no new or revised mitigation measures are required.
Mitigation Measures
Final EIR.
significant.
(b) Have a substantial adverse effect on any riparian habitat or other sensitive natural community
identified in local or regional plans, policies, regulations or by the CDFG or USFWS?
As noted in the certified EIR, there are no riparian or other sensitive vegetation communities occurring
within the approved project area. Therefore, the approved project would have a less-than-significant
impact on sensitive natural communities. Similarly, the biological survey conducted for the proposed
modified project (Appendix A of this addendum), found no evidence of riparian or other sensitive
vegetation communities on or near the vicinity. For these reasons, the proposed modifications to the
project do not change the finding in the certified EIR of less than significant. Additionally, impacts
June 2014
3-21
associated with the proposed PG&E facility upgrades noted in Table 2-2 would not result in additional
impacts to biological resources beyond what was previously analyzed, and PG&E facility upgrades would
remain less than significant. The proposed modifications to the project do not change the finding in the
certified EIR of less than significant. Based on the forgoing, no new or revised mitigation measures are
required.
Mitigation Measures
Final EIR.
significant.
(c)
Would Have a Substantial Adverse Effect on Federally Protected Wetlands as Defined by Section
404 of the Clean Water Act (Including, but Not Limited to, Marsh, Vernal Pool, Coastal, etc.) through
Direct Removal, Filling, Hydrological Interruption, or Other Means?
The certified EIR noted one potentially jurisdictional feature, Farmers Canal, traverses north to south
along a portion of the western boundary of the approved project site. This canal is a modified drainage
that conveys irrigation water to local farms in the area, and transitions to a mapped USGS “blue-line”
feature about 1 mile southwest of the project site. Based on aerial review, water conveyed through the
canal system appears to originate near the Kern River about 9 1/2 miles north of the project sites. The
drainage may comprise USACE jurisdictional waters of the U.S. (as defined by the presence of an
OHWM), Central Valley RWQCB waters of the state, and CDFG jurisdictional streambed.
No other potentially jurisdictional features were observed on site during the jurisdictional evaluation. As
previously discussed, the approved project site is subject to artificial irrigation for agricultural purposes
and contains several low topographical areas that may hold water for extended periods of time. However,
these areas would not be expected to retain water in the absence of irrigation given that the mapped soil
types on site are sandy loams and loamy sand.
The project operator proposes to avoid the canal and Mitigation Measure MM 4.6-1 would reduce
construction-related soil erosion impacts that might impact Farmers Canal to less-than-significant levels.
Potential impacts on water quality arising from erosion and sedimentation would be minimized by
compliance with the Kern County Grading Ordinance. The project operator would also be required to
submit a grading plan to the county for approval prior to commencement of any construction activities, as
well as to obtain and comply with the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) general
permit, an approved Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP), and any regional requirements to
meet state water quality objectives (see Mitigation Measure MM 4.9-1). Construction-related erosion and
sedimentation impacts on this canal as a result of the project would be considered significant under
CEQA. However, implementation of Mitigation Measures MM 4.4-6, MM 4.6-1, and MM 4.9-1 would
reduce impacts of the approved project on this feature resulting from project implementation to less-thansignificant levels.
June 2014
3-22
and would have no impact to biological resources. The addition of new gen-tie line up to ½ mile in length,
installation of anew approximately 85 foot and 95 foot transmission pole, and associated equipment, as
well as the PG&E facility upgrades noted in Table 2-2, would not change the conclusion that with
implementation of MM 4.4-6, MM 4.6-1and MM 4.9-1, the modified project would not result in
significant impacts to federally protected wetlands as defined by Section 404 of the Clean Water Act, and
the aforementioned upgrades and expansions would primarily occur within already-disturbed areas and
would not lead to impacts to federally protected wetlands beyond those identified in the certified EIR.
Additionally, impacts associated with the proposed PG&E facility upgrades would not result in additional
impacts to biological resources beyond what was previously analyzed, and would remain less than
significant. The construction activity associated with the project modifications will primarily be
conducted on currently cultivated, or existing, disturbed or developed land and will completely avoid the
Farmers’ Canal. Therefore, it is concluded that the impacts evaluated in the certified EIR will accurately
reflect the project’s impacts with the proposed modified project activities. For these reasons, the proposed
Mitigation Measures
Final EIR.
significant.
(d) Would Interfere Substantially with the Movement of Any Native Resident or Migratory Fish or
Wildlife Species, or with Established Native Resident or Migratory Wildlife Corridors, or Impede the
Use of Native Wildlife Nursery Sites?
As noted in the certified EIR, the approved project site does not occur within a known migration route,
significant wildlife corridor, or linkage area as identified in the Recovery Plan for Upland Species in the
San Joaquin Valley (USFWS 1998). The approved sites are located within large expanses of open space
and agricultural land. The sites do not concentrate wildlife movement through a narrow corridor that links
large areas of undeveloped open space on a local or regional level. Although the project sites would be
fenced off, wildlife could still freely move around the sites, and the project would not sever wildlife
movement in the areas. As discussed in Impact 4.4-1 within the certified EIR, the project sites do not
contain trees that could act as a nursery (nesting) site for raptors or migratory birds. After construction,
burrowing species could continue to use the sites for burrowing purposes. It was determined in the
certified EIR that Mitigation Measure MM 4.4-5 would enable kit foxes and other wildlife (e.g.,
American badger) to continue to use the sites for foraging purposes. Therefore, the approved project
would result in less-than-significant impacts on established wildlife corridors or wildlife nursery sites.
June 2014
3-23
that with implementation of MM 4.4-5, the modified project would not result in significant impacts to the
movement of any native resident or migratory fish or wildlife species or corridors; or impede the use of
native wildlife nursery sites, and the aforementioned upgrades and expansions would primarily occur
within already-disturbed areas and would not lead to impacts to the movement of any native resident or
migratory fish or wildlife species or corridors beyond those identified in the certified EIR. The
construction activity associated with the project modifications will primarily be conducted on currently
cultivated, or existing, disturbed or developed land. Additionally, impacts associated with the proposed
PG&E facility upgrades noted in Table 2-2 would not result in additional impacts to biological resources
beyond what was previously analyzed, and would remain less than significant. Therefore, it is concluded
that the impacts evaluated in the certified EIR will accurately reflect the project’s impacts with the
proposed modified project activities. For these reasons, the proposed modifications to the project do not
change the finding in the certified EIR of less than significant. Based on the forgoing, no new or revised
Mitigation Measures
Final EIR.
significant.
(e)
Conflict with provisions of an adopted habitat conservation plan, natural community
conservation plan or other approved local, regional, or state habitat conservation plan?
As stated in the certified EIR, The project site and gen-tie line alternatives occur within the Metropolitan
Bakersfield Habitat Conservation Plan (MBHCP). The approved project also falls within the boundaries
of the San Joaquin Valley Upland Species Recovery Plan. However, the approved project would not
conflict with any provisions of that plan and would not prohibit or decrease the potential for the recovery
of species covered in that plan. With payment of the per-acre HCP mitigation fee, the approved project
would receive incidental take coverage for San Joaquin kit fox, and fully comply with the requirements of
the HCP. Therefore, with the implementation of Mitigation Measure MM 4.4-7, no significant impacts
from the approve project are expected to occur.
that with implementation of MM 4.4-7, the project would not significantly impact provisions of an
adopted habitat conservation plan, natural community conservation plan or any other approved local,
regional, or State conservation plan, and the aforementioned upgrades and expansions would primarily
June 2014
3-24
occur within already-disturbed areas and would not lead to impacts to the movement of any native
resident or migratory fish or wildlife species or corridors beyond those identified in the certified EIR. The
construction activity associated with the project modifications will primarily be conducted on currently
cultivated, or existing, disturbed or developed land. Additionally, impacts associated with the proposed
PG&E facility upgrades noted in Table 2-2 would not result in additional impacts to biological resources
beyond what was previously analyzed, and would remain less than significant.
Therefore, it is concluded that the impacts evaluated in the certified EIR will accurately reflect the
project’s impacts with the proposed modified project activities. For these reasons, the proposed
Mitigation Measures
Final EIR.
significant.
Cumulative Impacts
The EIR concluded that the impacts of the approved project will combine with cumulative impacts of
past, present, and reasonably foreseeable projects to create a cumulatively significant loss of some
biological habitat resources in the region. This results in the approved project contributing to significant
and unavoidable cumulative impacts. The addendum biological survey (Appendix A) prepared for this
addendum EIR confirms that the proposed project modifications would not create new or substantially
more severe cumulative impacts to biological resources than those disclosed in the certified EIR and
would be mitigated with the implementation of Mitigation Measures MM 4.4-1 through MM 4.4-7, MM
4.6-1 and MM 4.9-1 to the maximum extent practicable by the incorporation of all feasible and applicable
mitigation measures.
identified for the approved solar facility and associated infrastructure only. No potential impacts to
special-status biological resources are anticipated at the existing PG&E substations because the current
footprints will not be expanded and PG&E will implement BMPs and APMs to reduce biological impacts
related to the proposed PG&E facility upgrades to a less-than-significant level at the project level. The
proposed PG&E facility upgrades’ incremental contribution to the loss and/or fragmentation of a
substantial fraction of the existing wildlife habitat in the county is not cumulatively considerable due to
the limited nature of the facility upgrades on site and within existing substations. Therefore, the
cumulative loss of biological resources associated with the PG&E facility upgrades identified in Table 2-2
are considered less than significant.
Mitigation Measures
June 2014
3-25
Final EIR.
June 2014
3-26
3.5
CULTURAL RESOURCES
3.5.1
Setting
An Additional Phase 1 Cultural Resource Survey was prepared for the proposed project modifications
(Hudlow, 2014, Appendix B). The report provides information on the proposed project addition gathered
from records searches through the California Historical Resources Information System (CHRIS) and from
fieldwork conducted in 2014. Pedestrian archaeological and historic architecture surveys were undertaken
to identify cultural resources in the proposed project addition and to determine potential effects to these
resources posed by the proposed modified project. Resources older than 45 years located in the proposed
project addition were identified and documented. Project setting information for the proposed project
addition, including information on the area’s natural environment, history, ethnography, and regulatory
environment, is the same as that for the approved project, and is provided in the certified EIR.
3.5.2
Impact Analysis
Project Impacts
As in the certified EIR analysis, this Addendum evaluates the potential for the proposed modified project
to result in new or substantially more adverse significant impacts to cultural resources in relation to the
following questions as stated in the Kern County CEQA Checklist:
Would the project:
(a) Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical or archaeological resource?
As noted in the certified EIR, a Phase I intensive pedestrian survey for cultural resources was conducted
between August 17 and August 22, 2010, and on May 23, 2011, at the approved project site and the
proposed tie-in transmission line rights-of-way by a qualified archaeologist. Because no built
environment resources are present on any of the parcels, no historical architectural research or survey was
conducted. No prehistoric or historical cultural resources were identified during these surveys of the
proposed project sites or tie-in transmission line rights-of-way. The project area is in an environmental
setting that is not conducive to prehistoric habitation, and has not been occupied or used historically
except as farmland. This suggests there is a low potential to expose and affect previously unknown
significant cultural resources during ground-disturbing activities. However, implementation of Mitigation
Measure MM 4.5-1 below would reduce potential impacts on archaeological resources associated with the
approved project to less-than-significant levels.
Once constructed, operation of the proposed projects is not anticipated to result in impacts related to the
disturbance of archaeological resources
As previously noted the approved project would reduce the overall impacts to cultural resources since the
approved project site is approximately 44 acres less than what was originally analyzed under the certified
EIR. In addition, the lessened approved project impacts would be mitigated to the maximum extent
practicable by the incorporation of the mitigation measures identified in the certified EIR.
June 2014
3-27
and would have no impact. As noted in the Additional Phase 1 Cultural Resource Survey (Appendix B),
no new historical cultural resources were identified within or in the vicinity of the proposed new gen-tie
line of up to ½ mile in length, installation of a new approximately 85 foot and 95 foot transmission pole,
and associated equipment, as well as the PG&E facility upgrades noted in Table 2-2. Therefore the
proposed modified project would not change the conclusion that the project would not create new or
substantially more adverse impacts to historical cultural resources. The proposed modified project will
comply with all mitigation measures required in the certified EIR. Implementation of Mitigation Measure
MM 4.5-1 would reduce impacts to a level of less than significant. Additionally, impacts associated with
the proposed PG&E facility upgrades noted in Table 2-2 would not result in additional impacts to cultural
resources beyond what was previously analyzed, and would remain less than significant. For these
reasons, the proposed modifications to the project do not change the finding in the certified EIR of less
than significant. Based on the foregoing, no new or revised mitigation measures are required.
Mitigation Measures
Final EIR.
significant.
(b) Directly or indirectly destroy a unique paleontological resource or site or unique geologic feature?
As noted in the EIR, the approved project is located on valley floor alluvial deposits. These surficial
deposits of recent alluvium are estimated to be at least 5 feet thick. These recent sediments are generally
devoid of vertebrate fossils. Underlying these sediments at varying depths is older alluvium, which may
have the potential to yield vertebrate fossils. Surface grading or very shallow excavations in the younger
Quaternary Alluvium occurring at the surface of the project sites are unlikely to encounter significant
vertebrate fossils. Slightly deeper excavations may possibly encounter lacustrine deposits of an expanded
prehistoric Kern Lake.
Because the proposed project is not located near any known paleontological resources or a geological
feature, and construction activities would involve relatively shallow excavations and trenching,
significant impacts on paleontological resources are considered to be unlikely. However, deeper
excavations in the proposed project area that extend into older Quaternary deposits or the Kern River
Formation may encounter significant fossil vertebrate remains. Disturbance of significant paleontological
resources would result in a significant adverse impact. Mitigation Measure MM 4.5-2 would reduce
impacts associated with the proposed project to a less-than-significant level.
Once constructed, operation of the proposed project is not anticipated to result in impacts related to the
disturbance of paleontological resources
June 2014
3-28
As noted above, the proposed modified project consists of LLA 23-14, which would have no impact on
archaeological resources. In addition, the majority of the construction activities associated with the
proposed PG&E upgrades identified in Table 2-2 are at existing facilities or across uncultivated or
disturbed ground, while the ½ mile of proposed gen-tie line, installation of a new approximately 85 foot
and 95 foot transmission pole, and associated equipment will not result in any other changes to the setting
analyzed in the certified EIR. Impacts associated with the proposed PG&E facility upgrades would not
result in additional impacts to paleontological resources beyond what was previously analyzed, and would
remain less than significant. Therefore, the proposed modifications to the project would not result in new
or substantially more adverse significant impacts than those disclosed in the EIR related to damage to a
significant paleontological resource.
The proposed modified project will comply with all mitigation measures required in the certified EIR.
Implementation of Mitigation Measure MM 4.5-2 would reduce impacts to unknown paleontological
resources to a level of less than significant.
No new or revised mitigation measures are required. The proposed modifications to the project do not
Mitigation Measures
Final EIR.
significant.
(c) Disturb any human remains, including those interred outside of formal cemeteries?
The EIR determined that there is no indication, either from the archival research results or the cultural
resources surveys, that any particular location in the project area has been used for human burial purposes
in the recent or distant past. However, in the event that human remains are inadvertently discovered
during project construction activities, the human remains could be inadvertently damaged, which would
be a significant impact. The EIR included Mitigation Measure 4.5-3 to reduce this potential impact to
below a level of significance by requiring limited work stoppages and proper handling of sites where
human skeletal remains are discovered. Implementation of this mitigation measure would also be
obligatory for the proposed modified project. Impacts associated with the proposed PG&E facility
upgrades would not result in additional impacts beyond what was previously analyzed, and would remain
less than significant. The proposed modified project would not change the finding in the certified EIR of
less than significant. Based on the foregoing analysis, no new or revised mitigation measures are required.
June 2014
3-29
Mitigation Measures
No changes to mitigation measures adopted in previously certified Final EIR.
significant.
Cumulative Impacts
The EIR concluded that the impacts of the approved project, when combined with the impacts of past,
present, and reasonably foreseeable projects, would not create a substantial adverse effect on cultural or
paleontological resources and would not, therefore, result in significant and unavoidable cumulative
impacts. The proposed modified project does not contain any identified historic, prehistoric
archaeological or paleontological resources, and the mitigation measures (MM 4.5-1 through MM 4.5-3),
included in the certified EIR to reduce potential impacts to currently unidentified cultural and
paleontological resources would apply to the proposed modified project.
For these reasons, the proposed modifications to the project do not create new or substantially more
severe cumulative impacts to cultural or paleontological resources than those disclosed in the certified
EIR and would be mitigated to the maximum extent practicable by the incorporation of all feasible and
applicable mitigation measures
Mitigation Measures
Final EIR.
cumulatively less than significant impacts.
June 2014
3-30
3.6
GEOLOGY AND SOILS
3.6.1
SETTING
The EIR analyzed the environmental setting for the approved project, including the local and regional
setting. It also analyzed the regulatory setting at the federal, State and local levels. With respect to
geology and soils, the proposed modified project will not result in any changes to the setting considered
in the certified EIR.
3.6.2
IMPACT ANALYSIS
Project Impacts
The certified EIR concluded that the approved project would not substantially: be located on a geologic
unit or soil that is unstable, or that would become unstable as a result of the project, and potentially result
in on- or offsite landslide, lateral spreading, subsidence, liquefaction, or collapse; be located on
expansive soil, as defined in Table 18-1 B of the Uniform Building Code (1994), creating substantial risks
to life or property; or have soils incapable of adequately supporting the use of septic tanks or alternative
wastewater disposal systems in areas where sewers are not available for the disposal of wastewater. No
further discussion is warranted.
As in the certified EIR, this Addendum evaluates the potential for the proposed modified project to result
in new or substantially more adverse significant impacts to geology and soils in relation to the following
Would the project:
(a) Expose people or structures to potential substantial adverse effects, including the risk of loss, injury,
or death involving: rupture of a known earthquake fault, strong seismic ground shaking or seismicrelated ground failure, including liquefaction or landslides?
Seismic ground failure
The EIR noted that the nearest active fault to the approved project site is the White Wolf Fault, located
8.2miles to the southeast. Therefore, there is a low potential for surface fault rupture at the project sites.
There would be no risk of loss, injury, or death involving fault rupture of a known earthquake fault.
Liquefaction
The approved project site is not located within a current, mapped California Liquefaction Hazard Zone. In
addition, groundwater in the site vicinity is expected to be approximately 150 feet below the ground
surface. As such, onsite subsurface soils were eliminated from further engineering evaluation of potential
liquefaction hazard. However, soils in the unsaturated zone consist of medium dense to dense sandy soils.
These sediments may be prone to volumetric strain as a result of cyclic loading from seismic activity.
Because of the distance from the known faults, the solar facilities associated with the proposed project
would not be subject to geologic hazards related to surface fault rupture, but would be affected by ground
shaking from earthquakes along the White Wolf Fault or others in the region.
June 2014
3-31
The approved project does not include permanent residences, staffing, or habitable buildings.
Construction of the proposed facility would be subject to applicable ordinances of the Kern County
Building Code (Chapter 17.08) and the California Building Standards Code, 2007 Edition (CCR Title 24),
which would reduce anticipated impacts related to the proximity of earthquake faults. Nevertheless, given
the overall seismic activity in the region, both project sites could be subjected to at least a moderate or
larger earthquake occurring close enough to produce strong ground shaking, resulting in structural
damage to the proposed PV facilities. Therefore, impacts related to strong seismic ground shaking at the
approved project sites are considered potentially significant. Mitigation Measure MM 4.6-1 would reduce
impacts resulting from seismic ground shaking and failure to a level of less than significant.
The proposed modified project would adhere to all requirements, and implementation of MM 4.6-1 would
reduce impacts resulting from seismically related ground failure to a level of less than significant. The
proposed modified project consists of LLA 23-14, which would have no seismic-related impact. In
addition, the majority of the construction activities associated with the proposed PG&E upgrades
identified in Table 2-2 are at existing facilities or across uncultivated or disturbed ground and would be
similar to regular maintenance upgrades conducted by PG&E. Similarly, the new ½ mile of proposed
gen-tie line, installation of a new approximately 85 foot and 95 foot transmission pole, and associated
equipment would be comparable to regular maintenance upgrades conducted by PG&E.
geologic or soil instability than considered in the EIR.. The proposed modified project will comply with
all mitigation measures required in the EIR. The proposed modifications to the project do not change the
finding in the certified EIR of less than significant. Based on the foregoing, no new or revised mitigation
measures are required.
Mitigation Measures
Final EIR.
cumulatively less than significant impacts
(b) Result in substantial soil erosion or the loss of topsoil?
The certified EIR noted that construction of the approved project would involve minimal site grading,
with removal of vegetation for installation of the PV panel structures. No export of soils is proposed. Site
leveling of the array areas would be accomplished by disking the soil with agricultural equipment and
then rolling the site to provide a level surface. As described above, the area surrounding the program sites
is within a relatively flat area between the Sierra Nevada Mountains and the Coast Ranges.
Although the approved project would not involve the grading of steep slopes prone to erosion,
earthmoving activities for site excavation, work areas, and access roads could loosen soil, and the removal
of vegetation could contribute to future soil loss and erosion by wind and stormwater runoff. The certified
June 2014
3-32
EIR states that the approved project would be required to prepare and implement a Construction SWPPP
for each of the project sites, including site-specific Best Management Practices (BMPs), addressing
erosion and sediment control, in addition to construction waste handling and proper disposal BMPs. Also,
pursuant to the Kern County Grading Ordinance (Section 17.28.070), the proposed project would be
required to submit grading plans accompanied by a soils engineering report, engineering geology report,
and drainage calculations in order to obtain required grading permits.
The certified EIR considered construction of new power lines and poles as part of the proposed project,
and four alternative locations of the gen-tie lines were identified. The proposed project modifications— a
new gen-tie route within a private easement along Shafter Road, upgrades to existing PG&E facilities, the
installation of new, approximately 85foot and 95 foot transmission poles, and up to ½ mile of gen-tie
power line and associated equipment, are similar in appearance to those analyzed in the certified EIR, and
would therefore, not cause any additional impacts to soil erosion or the loss of topsoil.
Given the relatively flat nature of the project sites, it is unlikely that soil erosion from water runoff would
occur; however, during construction of the proposed project, construction vehicles could contribute to soil
erosion, and impacts are considered to be potentially significant without mitigation. In addition to
implementing Mitigation Measures MM 4.9-1 and MM 4.9-2, as described in the certified EIR Section
4.9, Hydrology and Water Quality, implementation of Mitigation Measure MM 4.6-1 would reduce
construction-related soil erosion impacts to less-than-significant levels.
The proposed modified project would be subject to the same standard conditions and mitigation measures
as the approved project. The proposed LLA 23-14 would have no erosion-related impact on the site or
surrounding area. The construction activities associated with the proposed PG&E upgrades identified in
Table 2-2 are similar in appearance to those analyzed in the certified EIR, and would therefore, not cause
any additional impacts to soil erosion or the loss of topsoil. The proposed modifications to the project do
not change the finding in the certified EIR of less than significant. Based on the foregoing, no new or
revised mitigation measures are required.
Mitigation Measures
Final EIR.
significant impacts
Cumulative Impacts
The EIR concluded that the impacts of the approved project, when combined with the impacts of past,
present, and reasonably foreseeable projects would be less than cumulatively considerable. The
geographic scope for considering cumulative impacts on geology and soils includes only the extent of the
project sites because impacts on geology and soils are site specific. As discussed above, the project sites
are within a seismically active area; however, they are not close to a seismically active fault. The effects
June 2014
3-33
of these projects are not of a nature to cause cumulatively significant effects from geologic impacts or on
the soils resource. Cumulative impacts could occur in a seismic event if a potential hazard, such as a
power plant, were located near a populated area. However, no such facilities are planned within the
development area where the approved project is located.
As currently designed, and with the identified mitigation measures, the approved project would not
contribute to a cumulative impact related to geology and soils, including seismic hazards.
The proposed modified project including the proposed lot line adjustment (LLA 23-14) and the proposed
PG&E facility upgrades in and of themselves are minor in nature, particularly in the context of the
proposed solar project, will not result in any new or substantially more adverse cumulative impacts
relating to geology and soils than considered in the EIR and therefore no new or revised mitigation
measures are necessary. The proposed modified project will comply with all mitigation measures required
in the EIR. The EIR found that cumulative impacts would be less than significant after implementation of
Mitigation Measures MM 4.6-1, MM 4.9-1, and MM 4.9-2.
Mitigation Measures
Implement Mitigation Measures MM 4.6-1, MM 4.9-1, and MM 4.9-2. No new or revised mitigation
measures are required beyond those included in the previously certified Final EIR.
cumulatively less than significant impacts.
June 2014
3-34
3.7
GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS
3.7.1
Setting
Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions result in impacts which are global in nature. As such, the
environmental and regulatory settings related to greenhouse gas emissions provided in the EIR adequately
describes the setting for the proposed modified project. The environmental setting for GHG is the same as
described in the certified EIR; however, the proposed modified project site has reduced in size compared
to what was originally analyzed in the certified EIR. The approved project would develop 190 acres of
land for a 20 MW solar facility; however the EIR analyzed the proposed development of approximately
234 acres of land for two solar facilities.
3.7.2
Impact Analysis
Project Impacts
As in the EIR analysis, this Addendum evaluates the potential for the modified project to result in new or
substantially more adverse significant impacts to aesthetics in relation to the following questions as stated
in the Kern County CEQA Checklist:
Would the project:
(a) Generate greenhouse gas emissions, either directly or indirectly, that may have a significant impact
on the environment.
The EIR established that the approved project would significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions by
providing an emissions-free source of electricity, offsetting greenhouse gases that would be emitted from
facilities producing electricity from nonrenewable resources (e.g., coal or natural gas). In addition, the
approved project is helpful in achieving the State’s Renewable Portfolio Standard goal of 33 percent of
electricity generated from renewable sources by 2020.
The proposed modified project would not introduce different equipment or facilities that would increase
greenhouse gas emissions compared to the approved project. The proposed lot line adjustment (LLA 2314) intends to reconfigure the boundaries of the two parcels, and as such would not generate any
greenhouse gas emissions on the site or surrounding area. The proposed PG&E facility upgrades in and of
upgrades, including the proposed gen-tie line up to ½ mile in length, installation of a new approximately
85 foot and 95 foot transmission pole, and associated equipment. The impacts of the proposed off-site
upgrades to existing PG&E facilities would be of similar size to the equipment currently on the site.
While the proposed upgrades to existing PG&E equipment and facilities would require additional vehicle
trips and GHG emitting equipment during temporary construction/installation activities, these do not
exceed impacts analyzed by the certified EIR, due to the elimination of the development of RE Old River
Two. Overall, the modified project components would not result in the generation of any additional
June 2014
3-35
greenhouse gas emissions than what was previously discussed in the certified EIR of a less than
significant impact.
In addition, the proposed modified project would provide the necessary support facilities for the approved
project in order to produce a greater amount of emissions-free electricity in the long term, and would thus
contribute to the positive impact on reducing greenhouse gas emissions compared to the approved project.
The proposed modifications to the project would not change the finding in the certified EIR of less than
significant. Based on the foregoing analysis, no new or revised mitigation measures are required.
Mitigation Measures
Final EIR.
significant.
(b) Conflict with any applicable plan, policy, or regulation of an agency adopted for the purpose of
reducing the emissions of greenhouse gases.
Recommended Action E-3, Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS), of CARB’s Climate Change Scoping
Plan enforces the Governor’s call for a statewide RPS of 33%. The proposed project would help the state
meet this goal by adding a solar facility designed to generate up to a combined total of 20 MW of power
to California’s current renewable portfolio. Therefore, in this regard, the proposed project would help the
state meet its goals under AB 32.
The EIR concluded that the approved project would also be consistent with the County’s policy to
encourage solar development to conserve fossil fuels and improve air quality; and that compliance with
the goals, policies, and implementation measures of the Kern County General Plan would be required.
Therefore, no additional mitigation measures are proposed. The proposed modifications to the project
would not change the finding in the certified EIR of less than significant. No new or revised mitigation
measures are required.
Mitigation Measures
significant.
Cumulative Impacts
June 2014
3-36
The EIR concluded that the impacts of the approved project would not combine with impacts of past,
present, and reasonably foreseeable projects to create a substantial adverse effect on greenhouse gas
emissions. The proposed modified project would similarly have a positive impact on reducing
greenhouse gas emissions in the long term.
Therefore, the proposed modifications to the project do not create new or substantially more adverse
cumulative impacts to greenhouse gas than those disclosed in the certified EIR. Mitigation measures
would not be required for cumulative impacts.
Mitigation Measures
Final EIR.
significant.
June 2014
3-37
3.8
HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
3.8.1
Setting
The EIR discussed the existing conditions related to hazards and hazardous materials in the study area and
described the environmental setting for hazardous materials, oil extraction fields, and electromagnetic
fields (EMFs). It also assessed the regulatory setting at the federal, State and local levels. With respect to
hazards and hazardous materials, the proposed modified project will not result in any changes to the
setting considered in the EIR.
3.8.2
Impact Analysis
Project Impacts
to result in new or substantially more adverse significant impacts to hazards and hazardous materials in
Would the project:
(a) Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through the routine transport, use, or
disposal of hazardous materials?
As stated in the certified EIR, the approved project would not involve the routine transport, use, or
disposal of hazardous materials, as defined by the Hazardous Materials Transportation Uniform Safety
Act. It was found that most of the hazardous waste generated by the project, such as liquid waste,
including cleaning fluids and solvents, would be generated during the construction period. Some solid
hazardous waste, such as welding material and dried paint, may also be generated during construction.
However, any hazardous waste that is generated during construction of the proposed project would be
collected and transported away from the sites.
As noted above, there are no designated routes for the transport of hazardous materials on or immediately
adjacent to the project sites. Therefore, no hazardous materials would be transported past the project sites
from other locations.
According the Section 2.5.4 of the Kern County General Plan, Circulation Element, the hazardous
materials shipping routes closest to the RE Old River One site are as follows:

SR-166 (about 3 miles away).

I-5 (5 miles away).

SR-99 (4 miles away).

SR-166 (11 miles away)
June 2014
3-38
Operation of the proposed project would not create a significant hazard to the public or the environment
through the routine transport, use, or disposal of hazardous materials. Although the approved project does
not involve the routine transport, use, or disposal of hazardous materials Mitigation Measure MM 4.8-1
requires that a hazardous materials business plan be submitted to the Kern County Environmental Health
Services Division/Hazardous Materials Section, which would include a complete list of all materials used
on site and information regarding how the materials would be transported and in what form they would be
used.
and as such would have no impact on the site or surrounding area relating to hazardous materials. The
proposed PG&E facility upgrades in and of themselves are minor in nature, particularly in the context of
the proposed solar project, and many of the upgrades would be implemented internally within existing
PG&E facilities, noted in Table 2-2. These upgrades, including the proposed ½ mile gen-tie line,
installation of a new approximately 85 foot and 95 foot transmission pole, and associated equipment, as
well as internal upgrades to the Kern and Old River substations, will not result in any additional transport,
use or disposal of hazardous materials, and therefore would result in a less than significant impact.
For these reasons, the proposed modifications to the project would not result in a new or a substantial
increase in the severity of the impact to the public or environment in regards to the routine transport, use
or disposal of hazardous materials than disclosed in the certified EIR. The proposed modified project will
comply with all mitigation measures required in the EIR. The certified EIR concluded that, the impacts
of the approved project would be less than significant.
Mitigation Measures
Final EIR.
significant.
(b) Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through reasonably foreseeable upset
and accident conditions involving the release of hazardous materials into the environment?
As noted in the EIR, historical uses at approved project site included agricultural uses. Therefore, residual
traces of pesticides and herbicides may be present on the site. Construction and operation of the approved
project may generate dust and expose such chemicals. However, implementation of Mitigation Measure
MM 4.3-1 includes dust control measures to reduce this impact to a less-than-significant level.
As with all former agricultural properties, it is possible that irrigation lines on the project site may contain
asbestos or be wrapped in asbestos. If suspected asbestos-containing materials are uncovered during
June 2014
3-39
construction, Mitigation Measure MM 4.8-2 would require all work at the project site to halt so that a
proper assessment can be made of the suspect materials.
Up to four active and/or abandoned water wells may be located on the project sites. Prior to construction
of the approved project, Mitigation Measure MM 4.8-3 would require the property owner to consent to
the release of Department of Water Resources information about the status of the wells. The project
operator would also be required to consult with the Kern County Environmental Health Services Division
regarding the location and status of the onsite wells, and comply with all regulations as deemed necessary.
Removal and/or maintenance of vegetation may require the use of pesticides and herbicides during both
construction and operation. However, Mitigation Measure MM 4.8-4 would restrict new applications of
rodenticides and herbicides in project areas, thereby reducing potential impacts to less-than-significant
levels. The certified EIR concluded that, with implementation of MM 4.3-1, MM 4.8-1 through MM 4.84, the impacts of the approved project would be less than significant.
hazardous materials than considered in the EIR. The proposed lot line adjustment (LLA 23-14) would
reconfigure the boundaries of the two parcels, and as such would have no impact on the site or
surrounding area relating to hazardous materials. The proposed PG&E facility upgrades in and of
upgrades, including the proposed ½ miles gen-tie line, installation of new approximately 85 foot and 95
foot transmission poles, and associated equipment, as well as internal upgrades to the Kern and Old River
substations, will not result in any additional foreseeable upset or accident conditions involving the release
of hazardous materials into the environment, and therefore would result in a less than significant impact.
With implementation of MM 4.8-1 through MM 4.8-4, the impacts of the proposed modified project
would be less than significant.
Mitigation Measures
Final EIR.
significant.
Cumulative Impacts
The EIR determined that impacts of the approved project, when combined with the impacts of past,
present, and reasonably foreseeable projects, would not be cumulatively considerable and the approved
June 2014
3-40
project’s incremental contribution would be cumulatively less than significant. As indicated above,
hazardous materials release could result from activities during construction and operation of the approved
project, including site grading, pile-driving, and the use and transportation of petroleum-based lubricants,
solvents, fuels, herbicides, and pesticides to and from the site. However, conformance with existing State
and County regulations, project safety design features, and implementation of Mitigation Measures MM
4.3-1, MM 4.8-1, through MM 4.8-4 identified above would render this impact less than significant. This
impact does not have the potential to contribute to hazards associated with cumulative projects because
these types of impacts would be localized to the immediate vicinity of the project site.
For these reasons, the proposed modified project will not result in any new or substantially more adverse
cumulative impacts relating to hazards or hazardous materials than considered in the certified EIR and
would be mitigated to the maximum extent practicable by the incorporation of all feasible and applicable
mitigation measures.
Mitigation Measures
Final EIR.
significant.
June 2014
3-41
3.9
HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY
3.9.1 Setting
The proposed modified project has the same setting related to hydrology and water quality, including the
same hydrologic and flooding history, climate, surface and groundwater background, and soils, as the
approved project analyzed. The setting is fully described in the certified EIR.
Additionally, with the withdrawal of the 44 acre RE Old River Two facility, the EIR over-analyzed the
potential impacts anticipated for the construction and operation of the approved RE Old River One solar
project.
3.9.2
Impact Analysis
Project Impacts
to result in new or substantially more severe significant impacts to hydrology in relation to the following
Would the project:
(a) Violate any water quality standards or waste discharge requirements?
Water quality standards and waste discharge requirements can be violated if the project sites release
polluted discharges into receiving waters. The closest potential receiving water in Farmers Canal, located
to the west of the project sites.
The project sites are essentially flat, with only a modest potential for runoff. This condition would not
change with construction of the approved project. Potential impacts on water quality arising from erosion
and sedimentation are expected to be localized and temporary during construction. Implementation of
measures to minimize and contain erosion and sedimentation in accordance with the Kern County
Grading Ordinance would be required, including submittal of a grading plan to the county for approval
prior to commencement of any construction activities. In addition, the approved project would obtain and
comply with the NPDES general permit, including compliance with a Stormwater Pollution Prevention
Plan (SWPPP) and any regional requirements to meet state water quality objectives. Construction-related
erosion and sedimentation impacts as a result of soil disturbance would be less than significant after
implementation of Mitigation Measure MM 4.9-1, and BMPs required by the Kern County Grading
Ordinance
The approved project’s site engineering and design plans would be required to comply with the most
recent requirements of the Kern County Code of Building Regulations. Prior to the commencement of
construction activities a drainage plan will be submitted to the Kern County Engineering , Surveying and
Permit Services Department for approval, which would include post-construction structural and
nonstructural BMPs. Routine structural BMPs are intended to address water quality impacts related to
June 2014
3-42
drainage that are inherent in development. These need not be related to any identified water quality
problem. Examples of routine structural BMPs include filtration, runoff-minimizing landscape for
common areas, energy dissipaters, inlet trash racks, and water quality inlets. Therefore, long-term impacts
on drainage patterns across the project site that could result in substantial erosion and siltation on or off
site would be less than significant after implementation of Mitigation Measures MM 4.8-1, MM 4.9-1 and
MM 4.9-2 as well as BMPs required by the Kern County Grading Ordinance.
erosion and siltation than what was considered in the certified EIR. The proposed lot line adjustment
(LLA 23-14) would have no hydrology-related impact on the site or surrounding area. The proposed
PG&E facility upgrades in and of themselves are minor in nature, particularly in the context of the
proposed solar project, and many of the upgrades would be implemented internally within existing PG&E
facilities noted in Table 2-2. These upgrades, including the proposed ½ miles gen-tie line, installation of
new approximately 85 foot and 95 foot transmission poles, and associated equipment, as well as internal
upgrades to the Kern and Old River substations, will not result in any additional hydrology-related impact
on the site or surrounding area not already analyzed in the certified EIR.
Mitigation Measures
Final EIR.
significant.
(b) Substantially deplete groundwater supplies or interfere substantially with groundwater recharge such
that there would be a net deficit in aquifer volume or a lowering of the local groundwater table level?
Groundwater is currently located at depths of approximately 110 to 120 feet below ground surface in the
vicinity of the approved project site. The project sites currently provide some groundwater recharge
because they are pervious surfaces. However, the project site is not specifically designated as
groundwater recharge location and does not specifically operate as a groundwater recharge location.
Construction would not prevent or inhibit any incidental groundwater recharge that may currently occur
on site during precipitation events because the project site would generally remain pervious and would
allow any current infiltration that occurs during precipitation events to occur. During construction, the
Kern Delta Water District would provide water for activities such as control dust.
Under operating conditions, the project sites would no longer be used for agricultural uses. The panels
would be cleaned up to four times a year, and any excess water from washing activities might infiltrate
the groundwater. Additionally, since the projects sites would not be used for agricultural purposes,
June 2014
3-43
groundwater used by the water purveyor to provide the site with agricultural water would not be used and
therefore reduce the overall demand for groundwater in the area.
groundwater recharge such that there would be a net deficit in aquifer volume or a lowering of the local
groundwater table level than what was considered in the certified EIR and therefore no new or revised
mitigation measures are necessary. The proposed lot line adjustment (LLA 23-14) would reconfigure the
parcel boundaries of two parcels, and as such would have no runoff-related impact on the site or
surrounding area The proposed PG&E facility upgrades in and of themselves are minor in nature,
particularly in the context of the proposed solar project, and many of the upgrades would be implemented
internally within existing PG&E facilities noted in Table 2-2. These upgrades, including the proposed ½
mile gen-tie line, installation of new approximately 85 foot and 95 foot transmission poles, and associated
equipment, as well as internal upgrades to the Kern and Old River substations, will not result in any
additional impacts related to groundwater. The proposed modified project will comply with all mitigation
measures required in the EIR. Implementation of Mitigation Measure implement MM 4.8-1, MM 4.9-1
and MM 4.9-2 would reduce impacts related to groundwater and aquifer levels to a level of less than
significant.
Mitigation Measures
Final EIR.
significant.
(c) Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or area, including through the alteration
of the course of a stream or river, in a manner that would result in substantial erosion or siltation on
site or off site?
The proposed project would alter the existing drainage pattern of the site, which could result in erosion or
siltation on or off site. The disturbance of soils on site during construction could cause erosion, resulting
in temporary construction impacts. In addition, the placement of permanent structures on site could affect
drainage in the long term.
Potential impacts on water quality arising from erosion and sedimentation are expected to be localized
and temporary during construction. Construction-related erosion and sedimentation impacts as a result of
soil disturbance would be less than significant after implementation of a SWPPP.
As discussed in Impact 4.9-1 of the certified EIR, the proposed project’s site engineering and design plans
would be required to comply with the most recent requirements of the Kern County Code of Building
Regulations. Therefore, long-term impacts on drainage patterns across the project site that could result in
substantial erosion and siltation on or off site would be less than significant after implementation of
June 2014
3-44
Mitigation Measures MM 4.6-1, MM 4.9-1 and MM 4.9-2 as outlined in the certified EIR, and BMPs
required by the Kern County Grading Ordinance.
(LLA 23-14) would have no hydrology- or water quality-related impact on the site or surrounding area.
The proposed PG&E components outlined in Table 2-2 will not result in any other changes to the setting
analyzed in the certified EIR. The proposed modified project as a whole, would not change the finding in
the certified EIR of less than significant with the implementation of the proposed mitigation measures. No
new or revised mitigation measures are required.
Mitigation Measures
Final EIR.
significant.
(d) Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or area, including through the alteration
of the course of a stream or river, or substantially increase the rate or amount of surface runoff in a
manner that would result in flooding on site or off site?
As stated in the certified EIR, the approved project would not alter the amount or intensity of
precipitation, nor would it require significant amounts of additional water to be imported to the project
site. The rate or amount of surface runoff resulting from project construction activities would be similar
or even less than that of the existing condition since the pervious nature of the project site would not be
significantly altered. Although the amount of surface runoff on the project site would not increase, runoff
patterns and concentrations could be altered by grading activities associated with the approved project.
Implementation of Mitigation Measures MM 4.6-1 and MM 4.6-2 would reduce construction-related
surface runoff impacts to less-than-significant levels.
Once the facilities are fully operational, minimal amounts of water would be required for panel washing
or maintenance. It is anticipated the proposed project would use approximately 0.83 acre feet per year of
potable water for RE Old River One. Therefore, long-term impacts on drainage patterns across the project
site that could result in substantial erosion and siltation on- or off-site would be less than significant after
implementation of Mitigation Measures MM 4.6-1, MM 4.8-1, MM 4.9-1 and MM 4.9-2 and BMPs
required by the Kern County Grading Ordinance.
(LLA 23-14) would have no hydrology-related impact on the site or surrounding area. The proposed
PG&E components of the project as outlined in Table 2-2 will not result in any other changes to the
June 2014
3-45
setting analyzed in the certified EIR. The proposed modified project as a whole, would not change the
finding in the certified EIR of less than significant with the implementation of the proposed Mitigation
Measures MM 4.6-1, MM 4.8-1, MM 4.9-1 and MM 4.9-2 and BMPs required by the Kern County
Grading Ordinance. No new or revised mitigation measures are required.
The proposed modified project would not change the finding in the certified EIR of less than significant.
Based on the foregoing, no new or revised mitigation measures are required.
Mitigation Measures
Final EIR.
significant.
(e) Create or contribute runoff water that would exceed the capacity of existing or planned stormwater
drainage systems or provide substantial additional sources of polluted runoff?
As stated in the certified EIR, currently, there are no existing stormwater drainage systems on the project
sites or adjacent to them. The approved project site is drained by sheet flow and do not rely on
constructed stormwater drainage systems. Any runoff currently generated on the project sites either
percolates into the soil or runs off into either the Farmers’ Canal or along existing roads. Runoff currently
generated by the site would primarily consist of silt and soil based on the existing conditions of the site.
With the implementation of the SWPPP (Mitigation Measure MM 4.9-1) and BMPs required by the Kern
County Grading Code, impacts associated with polluted runoff during construction would be less than
significant.
Development of the approved project site would create minimal additional impervious surfaces. These
changes would not substantially increase the amount of stormwater runoff.
stormwater drainage or runoff than what was considered in the certified EIR. The proposed lot line
adjustment (LLA 23-14) would reconfigure the parcel boundaries of two parcels, and as such would have
no runoff-related impact on the site or surrounding area The proposed PG&E facility upgrades in and of
substations, will not result in any additional impacts. The proposed modified project will comply with all
mitigation measures required in the EIR. The proposed modified project as a whole, would not change the
finding in the certified EIR of less than significant with the implementation of the proposed MM 4.6-1,
MM 4.8-1, MM 4.9-1 and MM 4.9-2. No new or revised mitigation measures are required.
June 2014
3-46
No new or revised mitigation measures are required.
Mitigation Measures
Based on the foregoing, no new or revised mitigation measures are required beyond those included in the
previously certified Final EIR.
significant.
(f) otherwise substantially degrade water quality?
During construction, the approved project would be required to adhere to the NPDES General
Construction Permit to control erosion and protect water quality of stormwater runoff. In addition, the
approved project would be required to adhere to Division Four of the Kern County Development
Standards, which establish guidelines that include onsite drainage flow requirements. Therefore, the
approved project would not create or contribute runoff that would exceed the capacity of drainage
systems or provide substantial additional sources of polluted runoff. There are no other methods by which
water quality could be degraded as a result of operation on the project sites. Therefore, with the
preparation and implementation of the drainage plan (Mitigation Measure 4.9-2), impacts associated with
degrading water quality during operation would be less than significant.
water quality than what was considered in the certified EIR. The proposed lot line adjustment (LLA 2314) would have no hydrology-related impact on the site or surrounding area. The proposed PG&E
components of the project as outlined in Table 2-2 will not result in any other changes to the setting
analyzed in the certified EIR. The proposed modified project as a whole would not change the finding in
the certified EIR of less than significant with the implementation of the proposed Mitigation Measures
MM 4.6-1, MM 4.8-1, MM 4.9-1 and MM 4.9-2 and BMPs required by the Kern County Grading
Ordinance. No new or revised mitigation measures are required.
Based on the foregoing, no new or revised mitigation measures are required.
Mitigation Measures
Final EIR.
June 2014
3-47
significant.
Cumulative Impacts
The EIR determined that impacts of the approved project, when combined with the impacts of past,
present, and reasonably foreseeable projects, would not create a substantial adverse effect related to
hydrology and water quality. The proposed modified project would not introduce different or
substantially more equipment or facilities than what was analyzed in the certified EIR, and would include
preparation of a SWPPP and adherence to the requirements of the Kern County Statewide NPDES
requirements, Kern County Grading Code and Floodplain Management Ordinance, as well as BMPs.
For these reasons, the proposed modified project does not create new or substantially more severe
cumulative impacts to hydrology and water quality than those disclosed in the certified EIR and would be
mitigated to the maximum extent practicable by the incorporation of all feasible and applicable mitigation
measures.
Mitigation Measures
Final EIR.
significant.
June 2014
3-48
3.10 LAND USE AND PLANNING
3.10.1 Setting
The proposed project modification is located in the same location that was previously discussed and
analyzed in the certified EIR. As such, the regional and local land use and planning environmental and
regulatory setting for the approved project, provided in detail in the certified EIR, also applies to the
proposed modified project.
3.10.2 Impact Analysis
Project Impacts
to result in new or substantially more severe significant impacts to land use and planning in relation to the
Would the project:
(a) Conflict with any applicable land use plan, policy, or regulation of an agency with jurisdiction over
the project (including, but not limited to the general plan, specific plan, local coastal program, or
zoning ordinance) adopted for the purpose of avoiding or mitigating an environmental effect?
The certified EIR concluded that the approved project would be largely consistent with applicable land
use plans, policies, and regulations, including, the Metropolitan Bakersfield General Plan and the Kern
County Zoning Ordinance.
The proposed modified project site is zoned A (Exclusive Agriculture), which is the same zone as the
approved project under the certified EIR. The purpose of the A zone district is to designate areas that are
suitable for agricultural uses and prevent the encroachment of incompatible uses onto agricultural lands
and the premature conversion of such lands to nonagricultural uses. Permitted land uses in this district
include agricultural uses, commercial uses, and uses related to utility lines and substations, resource
extraction, and energy development. Miscellaneous accessory structures that are related to the permitted
uses are also allowed. According to Kern County Zoning Ordinance 19.12.030, solar energy electrical
generators are permitted within an area zoned A (Exclusive Agriculture) with approval of a CUP.
conflicting with any applicable land use plan, policy or regulation than what was considered in the
certified EIR. The proposed lot line adjustment (LLA 23-14) would reconfigure the parcel boundaries of
two parcels, and as such would have no land-use impact. The proposed PG&E facility upgrades in and of
substations, will not result in any additional impacts.
June 2014
3-49
According to the Kern County Zoning Ordinance Chapter 19.12.020.D, transmission lines and supporting
towers, poles and underground facilities for electricity owned and operated by a public utility company or
other company under the jurisdiction of the California Public Utilities Commission pursuant to Section
19.08.090 of this title is a permitted use; Chapter 19.080.C states there is no height limit on other
nonresidential structures except area protected military airspace, as specified in Section 19.08.160 of the
Zoning Ordinance. The proposed modified project location is located within the “green” area that does
not require military review of structures. The proposed modified project will comply with all the goals,
policies, and implementation measures of the Metropolitan Bakersfield General Plan, Kern County
Zoning Ordinance and the Kern County Land Division Ordinance, as well as the mitigation measures as
required in the certified EIR.
The proposed modified project as a whole, would not change the finding in the certified EIR of less than
significant. Based on the foregoing, no new mitigation measures are required.
Mitigation Measures
significant.
(b)
Conflict with any applicable habitat conservation plan or natural community conservation plan?
As discussed in Section 4.4, “Biological Resources,” of the certified EIR, the project sites occur within
the Metropolitan Bakersfield Habitat Conservation Plan (MBHCP). The sites provide marginal habitat for
one species covered by the MBHCP, the San Joaquin kit fox. This species is considered absent from the
project sites and the closest known den location is approximately 3.5 miles northeast of the sites. As
discussed in Section 4.4, implementation of Mitigation Measure MM 4.4-7 would reduce impacts to
species covered under the MBHCP to a less than significant level.
The proposed lot line adjustment (LLA 23-14) would reconfigure the parcel boundaries of two parcels,
and as such would not conflict with the MBHCP. The proposed PG&E facility upgrades in and of
upgrades would be implemented internally within existing PG&E facilities, noted in Table 2-2. These
substations, will not result conflict with the MBHCP.
The proposed modified project as a whole, would not change the finding in the certified EIR of less than
significant. Based on the foregoing, no new mitigation measures are required.
Cumulative Impacts
June 2014
3-50
The certified EIR concluded that the approved project, when combined with impacts of past, present, and
reasonably foreseeable solar projects, if abandoned, may be subject to vandalism and become a
cumulatively dangerous public nuisance which would require additional public services, that a mitigation
measure related to the decommissioning of solar facilities was included that establishes safeguards of the
health, safety and welfare of the citizens of the County (Mitigation Measure MM 4-10.1).
Section 53091 of the California State Government Code provides an exemption from local building and
zoning ordinances for a city or county project that includes the location or construction of facilities for the
production or generation of electrical energy, among other uses. In addition, utility companies regulated
by the California Public Utilities Commission have specific exemptions for transmission lines and other
generating facilities. Mandates for renewable energy projects have made commercial solar and wind
projects an attractive investment for utilities, cities, and counties. To ensure conformance to the land use
regulations adopted and implemented by Kern County, the approved project would execute a
memorandum of understanding/agreement that binds any buyer or operator to agree to be bound by the
Kern County Zoning Ordinance, including Kern County building permit requirements, the conditions of
the conditional use permit, and the mitigation measure monitoring program regardless of any exemption
they may have under Section 53091. These mechanisms provide sufficient assurances that all provisions
of the recommended approval will be implemented for the life of the project. With the implementation
of Mitigation Measure MM 4.10-2, these cumulative land use impacts would be less than significant
The implementation of Mitigation Measure MM 4.10-3, which requires coordination of frequency and
notification with the Department of Defense to avoid potential frequency conflicts with local military
operations, and the above mentioned MM 4.10-3, cumulative impacts of the approved project would
reduce impact to less than significant.
The proposed modified project includes lot line adjustment (LLA 23-14) that would reconfigure the
parcel boundaries of two parcels, and as such would not cause abandonment of a solar facility, require
additional public services or coordination with the U.S. Department of Defense. The proposed PG&E
facility upgrades in and of themselves are minor in nature, particularly in the context of the proposed solar
project, and many of the upgrades would be implemented internally within existing PG&E facilities, as
noted in Table 2-2. These upgrades, including the proposed ½ miles gen-tie line, installation of new
approximately 85 foot and 95 foot transmission poles, and associated equipment, as well as internal
upgrades to the Kern and Old River substations, also will not result in these cumulative impacts.
For these reasons, the proposed modifications to the project do not create new or substantially more
severe cumulative impacts than those disclosed in the certified EIR and would be mitigated to the
maximum extent practicable by the incorporation of all feasible and applicable mitigation measures.
Mitigation Measures
Final EIR.
June 2014
3-51
cumulatively less than significant.
June 2014
3-52
3.11 NOISE
3.11.1 Setting
The previously approved project site does not include development of RE Old River Two (44 acres),
which reduces the project area that was previously described and analyzed by the certified EIR and
therefore lessens the overall potential noise impacts of the approved project. There is an addition 555 foot
setback buffer between Shafter Road and the perimeter of RE Old River One project boundary with the
withdrawal of RE Old River Two. Thus, the certified EIR overanalyzed the expected noise impacts of the
approved project, and impacts would therefore be anticipated to be of a lesser intensity.
Project Impacts
As in the EIR analysis, this Addendum evaluates the potential for the proposed project to result in new or
substantially more adverse significant impacts to noise in relation to the following questions as stated in
the Kern County CEQA Checklist:
Would the project:
(a)
Expose persons to, or generate, noise levels in excess of standards established in a local general
plan or noise ordinance or applicable standards of other agencies?
The certified EIR determined that the approved project would have potentially significant and
unavoidable noise impacts resulting from the project exposing persons to, or generating noise levels in
excess of standards established in a local general plan or noise ordinance or applicable standards of other
agencies. As proposed, project construction would be completed in discrete, consecutive, phases. The
onsite construction workforce would peak at 70 workers. Construction hours are planned to comply with
applicable local ordinances. In Kern County, hours are limited 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Monday through
Friday and 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. It is anticipated that construction would generally
occur between 7:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Additional hours may be necessary to
make up schedule deficiencies or to complete critical construction activities.
With the elimination of RE Old River Two, the location of the most noise-generating elements of the
proposed modified project, including construction of the solar panels and associated on-site infrastructure,
would be setback an additional 555 feet from Shafter Road, thereby reducing the noise impacts of the
approved project. As stated in the certified EIR, construction noise levels would attenuate at sensitive
receptors as construction activity moves farther into the site. Implementing best management practices
throughout construction, including locating equipment and staging to minimize noise impacts would
reduce construction noise impacts. Construction of the project could result in short-term impacts during
construction therefore the mitigation measures outlined below should be implemented. Implementation of
Mitigation Measure MM 4.11-1 through MM 4.11-3 would reduce short-term construction related noise
impacts associated with implementation of the approved project to comply with the County’s Municipal
Code construction noise standards. However, there is a potential that temporary noise impacts from
June 2014
3-53
construction activities could exceed established thresholds therefore temporary construction noise impacts
would be considered significant and unavoidable.
Onsite operational noise sources would include an axis tracker, gen-tie transmission lines, transmitters,
inverters, and ventilated transformer. Gen-tie transmission lines have the potential to produce electrical
discharge noise from the transmission of electrical current. However, the proposed project would
incorporate standard design practices to reduce electrical discharge noise to a level below 65 dBA.
Operation of the proposed project is not expected to result in any significant impacts because solar panels
are virtually silent when in operation. Construction of the project could result in short-term impacts
during construction therefore the mitigation measures outlined in the certified EIR should be
implemented.
and as such would have no impact to noise on the site or surrounding area. The proposed project
modifications— a new gen-tie route within a private easement along Shafter Road, upgrades to existing
PG&E facilities, the installation of approximately 85 foot and 95 foot steel power poles, and up to ½
mile of gen-tie power line, are similar in nature to what was analyzed in the certified EIR, and are
therefore, not expected to generate any excess noise than what was previously discussed in the certified
EIR. Because of the limited nature of the proposed PG&E facility upgrades, the temporary noise
associated with construction of the upgrades would not exceed significance thresholds for construction.
The impacts associated with the proposed PG&E facility upgrades are therefore considered less than
significant.
The certified EIR evaluated the impacts of the original project size of 234 acres. Due to the decrease in
the approved project, RE Old River One (190 acres), the certified EIR overanalyzed the overall impacts of
the project.
For these reasons, the proposed modifications to the project would not result in new or a substantial
increase in the severity of noise impacts on the site and its surroundings than disclosed in the certified
EIR. The implementation of Mitigation Measures MM 4.11-1 through MM 4.11-3 as described in the
certified EIR, would reduce short-term construction related noise. The proposed modified project will not
result in any new or substantially more adverse impacts relating to noise than considered in the certified
EIR and therefore no new or revised mitigation measures are necessary. The proposed modified project
will comply with all mitigation measures required in the EIR. Implementation of Mitigation Measures
MM 4.11-1, through MM 4.11-3 would reduce impacts of the modified proposed project to less than
significant levels.
The proposed modifications to the project do not change the finding in the certified EIR of significant and
unavoidable. Based on the foregoing, now new or revised mitigation measures are required.
Mitigation Measures
Final EIR.
June 2014
3-54
(b)
Expose persons to or generate excessive groundborne vibration or groundborne noise levels?
Groundborne vibration could originate from earth movement and heavy-truck movement during the
construction phase of the proposed project. Vibration from the use of construction equipment would be
perceptible in the immediate vicinity of the construction site. However, groundborne vibration generated
by construction equipment or vehicles traveling on uneven surfaces would attenuate rapidly and not be
expected to be perceptible to residents.
Kern County does not have regulations that define acceptable levels of vibration; however, the anticipated
construction-related vibrations are well below the vibration damage criteria of 90 VdB (0.12 PPV) for
even the most sensitive and fragile structures. Therefore, vibration impacts would not be considered
significant.
The components of the modified project are similar in nature to what was analyzed in the certified EIR,
and are therefore, not expected to generate any excess groundborne vibration than what was previously
discussed in the certified EIR. The proposed lot line adjustment (LLA 23-14) intends to reconfigure the
boundaries of the two parcels, and as such would have no vibration-generating impact on the site or
surrounding area. The proposed project modifications— a new gen-tie route within a private easement
along Shafter Road, upgrades to existing PG&E facilities, the installation of an approximately 85 foot and
95 foot steel power pole, and up to ½ mile of gen-tie power line, are similar in nature to what was
analyzed in the certified EIR, and are therefore, not expected to generate any excess noise than what was
previously discussed in the certified EIR. Because of the limited nature of the proposed PG&E facility
upgrades, the temporary noise associated with construction of the upgrades would not generate excessive
groundborne vibration during construction. The impacts associated with the proposed PG&E facility
upgrades are therefore considered less than significant.
The modified project would adhere to the requirements of the Kern County Noise Ordinance, which limits
the hours of construction. Similar to construction noise, construction vibration, if detected at all, would be
temporary. The proposed modifications to the project would not change the finding in the certified EIR of
less than significant. Now new or revised mitigation measures are required.
Mitigation Measures
significant.
June 2014
3-55
(c)
Result in a substantial permanent increase in ambient noise levels in the project vicinity above
levels existing without the project?
As stated in the certified EIR, the approved project would incorporate additional buffer areas and
landscaping, as well as standard design practices to reduce electrical discharge noise to a level below 65
dBA. Mitigation Measure MM 4.1-4 requires landscaping along the 20 foot buffer along Shafter Road,
Ashe Road and Demkey Avenue, which would also reduce noise impacts to sensitive receptors in the
area. Additionally, with the withdrawal of RE Old River Two, there is an additional 555 feet of buffer
between the approved RE Old River One solar facility and sensitive receptors located on the north side of
Shafter Road. Therefore, operation of the proposed project would not generate noise levels in excess of
noise standards or create a substantial increase in ambient noise levels in the project vicinity.
The small number of vehicles required for maintenance of the solar arrays for a maximum of 20 days per
year would represent a small increase in ADT on the adjacent roadway network. This increase would not
result in a substantial noise increase from operational traffic. Therefore, impacts would be less than
significant.
The proposed lot line adjustment (LLA 23-14) would reconfigure the boundaries of the two parcels, and
as such is not anticipated to increase ambient noise levels on the site or surrounding area. The proposed
project modifications— a new gen-tie route within a private easement along Shafter Road, upgrades to
existing PG&E facilities, the installation of approximately 85 foot and 95 foot steel power poles, and up
to ½ mile of gen-tie power line, are temporary, and similar in nature to what was analyzed in the certified
EIR, and are therefore, not expected to generate noise in excess of what was previously discussed in the
certified EIR. Because of the limited nature of the proposed PG&E facility upgrades, the temporary noise
associated with construction of the upgrades would not increase permanent ambient noise levels. The
impacts associated with the proposed PG&E facility upgrades are therefore considered less than
significant
significant. Now new or revised mitigation measures are required..
Mitigation Measures
No new mitigation measures are required, and impacts would remain less than significant.
significant.
(d)
Result in a substantial temporary or periodic increase in ambient noise levels in the project
vicinity above levels existing without the project?
The approved project would result in temporary increases in noise levels during construction. Impact
4.11-1 discusses the temporary noise increase that would be anticipated to occur under the proposed
June 2014
3-56
project as discussed in the certified EIR. Noise levels anticipated from site preparation, construction
traffic, and installation of the photovoltaic panels would potentially result in significant impacts. The
components of the modified project are similar in nature to what was analyzed in the certified EIR, and
are therefore, not expected to generate an increase in temporary or periodic ambient noise levels in excess
of what was previously discussed in the certified EIR. Although the proposed modified project would
adhere to all applicable MBGP and Kern County Noise Ordinance requirements and guidelines,
construction-related noise levels have the potential to temporarily exceed established noise thresholds and
the proposed project would result in increases in noise levels during construction. Therefore, the impacts
would be considered significant and unavoidable.
The proposed lot line adjustment (LLA 23-14) would reconfigure the boundaries of the two parcels, and
as such would have no increases to ambient noise levels on the site or surrounding area. The proposed
project modifications— a new gen-tie route within a private easement along Shafter Road, upgrades to
existing PG&E facilities noted in Table 2-2, the installation of approximately 85 foot and 95 foot steel
power poles, and up to ½ mile of gen-tie power line, are temporary, and similar in nature to what was
analyzed in the certified EIR, and are therefore, not expected to generate any noise in excess of what was
previously discussed in the certified EIR. Because of the limited nature of the proposed PG&E facility
upgrades, the temporary noise associated with construction of the upgrades would not generate excessive
noise during construction. The impacts associated with the proposed PG&E facility upgrades are therefore
considered less than significant
The proposed modified project as a whole, would not change the finding in the certified EIR of significant
and unavoidable. No new or revised mitigation measures are required beyond those included in the
previously certified Final EIR.
Mitigation Measures
significant and unavoidable temporary noise impacts during construction.
Cumulative Impacts
The area influenced by cumulative noise effects related to adjacent parcels and the surrounding planned
development areas is discussed in the certified EIR Table 3-3 (refer to Chapter 3, Project Description).
Several other large solar projects may be developed in the areas surrounding the project sites in the future,
including nine solar energy projects on a minimum of 9,103 acres. However, the proposed project
modification would not generate substantially more adverse cumulative impacts to aesthetics and visual
resources than those disclosed in the certified EIR and would be mitigated to the maximum extent
practicable by the incorporation of all feasible and applicable mitigation measures. The analysis presented
above has determined that a significant and unavoidable impact has been identified for the approved solar
facility and associated infrastructure only.
June 2014
3-57
Construction activities associated with the approved project, which would temporarily increase ambient
noise levels, could occur at the same time as other projects in the vicinity. Significant operational noise
impacts are not expected to result. Although no other concurrent construction projects are anticipated
adjacent to the project site, there are at least 24 solar projects proposed in the Valley region, and five are
within 10 miles of the project sites. Therefore, the construction impacts of the approved project would
potentially combine with the impacts of past, present, or reasonably foreseeable projects. There is no
additional feasible mitigation available to reduce the project or cumulative impacts to less than
significant.
The proposed modified project will not result in any new or substantially more adverse cumulative
impacts relating to noise than considered in the certified EIR and therefore no new or revised mitigation
measures are necessary. The proposed modified project will comply with all mitigation measures required
in the EIR. Implementation of Mitigation Measures MM 4.11-1 through MM 4.11-3 would reduce
cumulative impacts of the proposed modified project.
Because of the limited nature of the proposed PG&E facility upgrades, the temporary noise associated
with construction of the upgrades would not exceed significance thresholds. The proposed PG&E facility
upgrades’ incremental contribution to noise emissions is insubstantial and is therefore not cumulatively
considerable. Temporary cumulative impacts associated with the PG&E facility upgrades are therefore
considered to be less than significant.
Mitigation Measures
Final EIR.
significant and unavoidable..
June 2014
3-58
3.12 PUBLIC SERVICES
3.12.1 Setting
The public services section of the certified EIR describes the affected environment and regulatory setting
pertaining to fire and police protection, the impacts on fire and police protection that would result from
implementation of the proposed project, and the mitigation measures to reduce these impacts. Like the
approved project site, the proposed modified project is served by the Kern County Sheriff’s Office and
Kern County Fire Department. With respect to public services, the proposed modified project will not
result in any changes to the setting considered in the EIR.
Project Impacts
As in the EIR analysis, this Addendum evaluates the potential for the proposed project to result in new or
substantially more adverse significant impacts to aesthetics in relation to the following questions as stated
in the Kern County CEQA Checklist:
Would the project:
(a) Result in substantial adverse physical impacts associated with the provision of new or physically
altered governmental facilities, need for new or physically altered governmental facilities and/or
result in the need for new or physically altered governmental facilities, the construction of which
could cause significant environmental impacts, in order to maintain acceptable service ratios,
response times or other performance objectives for any of the public services:
(i)
Fire protection?
(ii) Police protection?
The EIR concluded that, with the compliance of the mitigation measures MM 4.12-1 and MM 4.12-2, the
approved project would not result in any substantial adverse physical impacts associated with the
provision of new or altered police or fire protection facilities. Additionally, Mitigation Measure 4.12-1
requires the development of a fire safety plan for use during construction and operation that would need
to be submitted and approved by the Kern County Fire Department prior to issuance of building and
grading permits.
Because of an increase in accident potential along haul routes by truck and employee traffic,
implementation of Mitigation Measure 4.12-2 requires payment of impact fees for Countywide public
protection, sheriff’s patrol and investigation services, and fire services at a rate of $29.59 per 1,000 square
feet of panel-covered ground for the facility operation for the entire covered area of the project.
conflicting with any applicable land use plan, policy or regulation than what was considered in the
certified EIR. The proposed lot line adjustment (LLA 23-14) would have no public service-related impact
June 2014
3-59
on the site or surrounding area. The proposed PG&E upgrade components of the project will not result in
any other changes to the setting analyzed in the certified EIR and will therefore not generate any
additional impact on public services.
The proposed modifications to the project do not result in a change to the finding in the certified EIR of
less-than-significant impacts relative to the provision of new or physically altered police and fire
protection facilities required to maintain performance objectives. The proposed modifications to the
project would not change the finding in the certified EIR of less than significant. Based on the foregoing,
no new or revised mitigation measures are required.
Mitigation Measures
significant.
Cumulative Impacts
Significant cumulative impacts on public services would occur if the public agencies were overburdened
and unable to provide adequate services, thereby resulting in significant combined impacts related to the
development of new facilities. Because the approved project would not induce population growth in the
area, implementation would not result in the need to construct new, or physically alter or expand, existing
sheriff’s office and fire protection facilities. In addition, it would not impede the effective operation of
these facilities. Incorporation of the Mitigation Measures MM 4.12-1 and MM 4.12-2 would reduce
project impacts to a less-than-significant level. In addition, the application of similar mitigation at each of
the proposed solar projects would reduce cumulative impacts to a less-than-significant level. Therefore,
project impacts on public services would not be cumulatively considerable.
The mitigation measures require the payment of impact fees for public services and development of a fire
safety plan for construction and operation. The proposed lot line adjustment (LLA 23-14) would have no
public service-related impact on the site or surrounding area. The proposed PG&E upgrade components
of the project will not result in any other changes to the setting analyzed in the certified EIR and will
therefore not require any additional impact on public services. Thus, the proposed modifications to the
project do not create new or substantially more adverse cumulative impacts to public services than those
disclosed in the EIR and would be mitigated to the maximum extent practicable by the incorporation of
all feasible and applicable mitigation measures.
Mitigation Measures
Final EIR.
June 2014
3-60
significant.
June 2014
3-61
3.13 TRANSPORTATION AND TRAFFIC
3.13.1 Setting
The proposed project addition is in the same location as the approved project site. The same local
roadways that serve the approved project site would serve the proposed modified project. As such, the
discussion of the regional and local transportation and traffic environmental and regulatory setting,
provided in detail in the certified EIR, also applies to the proposed modified project.
The previously approved project site does not include development of RE Old River Two (44 acres),
which reduces the project impacts that were previously described and analyzed by the certified EIR.
Thus, the certified EIR overanalyzed the expected traffic impacts of the approved project, and impacts
would therefore be anticipated to be of a lesser extent.
Project Impacts
As in the certified EIR analysis, this Addendum chapter evaluates the potential for the proposed modified
project to result in new or substantially more severe significant impacts to traffic in relation to the
Would the project:
(a) Cause an increase in traffic that is substantial in relation to the existing traffic load and capacity of
the street system (i.e., result in a substantial increase in the number of vehicle trips, the volume-tocapacity ratio on roads, or congestion at intersections)?
Construction
The construction of the two solar facilities was anticipated to be conducted concurrently. The onsite
construction workforce is expected to peak at 70 workers. Construction of the proposed project would
generate vehicle trips as construction equipment is brought to the sites, materials are delivered, and the
labor force commutes to and from the sites. However, the proposed project’s structural components would
be modular and made of lighter materials than those used for other generating technologies, thereby
requiring a minimal number of truck deliveries during project construction. Furthermore, oversized or
heavy construction equipment is not expected to be used on any of the sites during project construction.
The withdrawal of RE Old River Two would decrease the expected number of construction-related traffic,
specifically regarding the delivery of solar panels and associated equipment.
The approved project would generate a maximum of 59 vehicle trips during a single peak hour; however,
because of overlapping construction phases, there would be periods where 97 vehicle trips would be
generated during a single peak hour. The primary construction route for the proposed project is
anticipated to be Shafter Road, with workforce traffic originating primarily from east (70%) and west
(30%) of the site. As noted above, with the withdrawal of RE Old River Two, the traffic-related impacts
of the approved RE Old River One project would be reduced, and remain less than significant.
June 2014
3-62
Operations
Upon completion of the construction and testing phases, the approved project would operate on an
unstaffed basis and be monitored remotely. Therefore, daily and peak-hour trip generation at all sites
would be nominal. Periodically, maintenance vehicles would visit the sites to wash the panels and make
repairs. Given the above analysis, operations at the sites would result in a less-than-significant increase in
traffic in relation to the existing traffic load and capacity of the street system because of the small scale of
the operational activities, the temporary nature of the vehicle trips, and the low project trip generation
potential during project operations.
The proposed project LLA 23-14, would reconfigure the internal boundaries of the proposed project site,
and as such would have no impact related to an increase in traffic to the site or surrounding area. The
proposed PG&E facility upgrades outlined in Table 2-2, in and of themselves are minor in nature,
internally within existing PG&E facilities. No O&M buildings or permanent staff is proposed as a part the
modified project. The proposed modifications to the project do not change the finding in the certified EIR
of less than significant. Based on the foregoing, no new or revised mitigation measures are required.
Mitigation Measures
significant.
(b)
Exceed, either individually or cumulatively, an LOS Standard established by the County
Congestion Management Agency or Adopted County Threshold for Designated Roads or Highways,
specifically, implementation of the project would cause the LOS for Roadways and/or intersections to
decline below the following thresholds or further degrade already degraded segments: Metropolitan
Bakersfield General Plan, LOS C, or Kern County General Plan, LOS D.
According to the peak-hour trip generation summaries in Tables 4.13-2 and 4.13-3 of the certified EIR,
trip generation during construction of the approved project would increase by a maximum of 4%.
Furthermore, construction traffic would be short term and temporary. However, this minimal increase in
traffic would be further reduced with the withdrawal of the RE Old River Two solar facility. Thus,
construction of the proposed project would result in a less-than-significant impact with respect to Level of
Service (LOS), for roadways. However, to ensure impacts to LOS on roadways is reduced to less than
significant levels, Mitigation Measure MM 4.13-1, which involves submitting a traffic control plan to
the Kern County Roads Department, would minimize construction impacts.
As discussed in the certified EIR, during project operations, the approved project would operate on an
unstaffed basis and be monitored remotely. As discussed in above, the trip generation potential from
maintenance and repair is forecast to generate a nominal increase in traffic and therefore would not result
in any significant degradation of the current LOS operating conditions for all project roadways.
June 2014
3-63
The proposed lot line adjustment (LLA 23-14) will reconfigure the internal boundaries of the proposed
project site, and as such would have no impact related to exceeding an LOS Standard. The proposed
PG&E facility upgrades outlined in Table 2-2, in and of themselves are minor in nature, particularly in
the context of the proposed solar project, and many of the upgrades would be implemented internally
within existing PG&E facilities. The proposed modifications to the project do not change the finding in
the certified EIR of less than significant. Based on the foregoing, no new or revised mitigation measures
are required.
Mitigation Measures
significant.
Cumulative Impacts
The certified EIR concluded that the approved project when combined with the impacts of past, present,
and reasonably foreseeable projects would not create a substantial adverse effect related to changes in the
transportation system or traffic generation, during construction or operations. The proposed modified
project does not result in an increase in traffic beyond what was analyzed in the EIR. Implementation of
Mitigation Measure MM 4.13-1 would reduce the impact of heavy truck trips to less than significant
levels. Therefore, the proposed modified project does not create new or substantially more severe
cumulative impacts to transportation and traffic than those disclosed in the certified EIR and impacts
would remain less than significant as stated in the certified EIR.
Mitigation Measures
Final EIR.
significant.
June 2014
3-64
3.14 UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS
3.14.1 Setting
The proposed modified project is in the same general area as the approved project site. As such, the
discussion of the regional and local utility and service systems and regulatory setting, provided in detail in
the certified EIR, also applies to the proposed modified project.
Project Impacts
As in the certified EIR analysis, this Addendum chapter evaluates the potential for the proposed modified
project to result in new or substantially more severe significant impacts to utility and service systems in
Would the project:
(a) Require or result in the construction of new stormwater drainage facilities or expansion of existing
facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental effects?
As noted in the EIR, the approved project site drains by percolation into onsite soils and sheet flow is
directed into Farmers Canal. The site does not rely on constructed stormwater drainage facilities.
Construction of the approved project would include implementation of BMPs as well as a Storm Water
Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) as required by mitigation measure MM 4.9-1 (see Section 4.9,
Hydrology and Water Quality of the certified EIR).
Improved (earthen or gravel) roads would be located throughout the project sites to provide access to the
solar equipment. The majority of the project sites would remain permeable. Thus, approved project
operations would not substantially alter groundwater infiltration rates or generate substantial amounts of
stormwater. However, per state and local regulations the approved project would be required to develop a
drainage plan. Thus, project operations would not substantially alter groundwater infiltration rates or
generate substantial amounts of stormwater. Implementation of Mitigation Measure MM 4.9-2, and postconstruction BMPs and drainage measures would reduce impacts to stormwater drainage facilities. The
plan would also be designed to reduce the flow and amount of stormwater runoff during project
operations.
As discussed in Section 4.9, Hydrology and Water Quality, of the certified EIR, drainage facilities are
considered part of the analyzed development footprint and their impacts on environmental resources, with
implementation of the drainage plan, have been adequately evaluated. Operation of the proposed project
would not require or result in the construction of new stormwater drainage facilities or the expansion of
existing facilities, which could cause significant environmental effects. Impacts would be less than
significant with mitigation incorporated.
June 2014
3-65
project site, and as such would have no impact related to stormwater drainage facilities or expansion of
existing facilities. The proposed PG&E facility upgrades in and of themselves are minor in nature,
internally within existing PG&E facilities. Upgrades, including the proposed ½ miles gen-tie line,
installation of new approximately 85 foot and 95 foot transmission poles, and associated equipment, as
well as internal upgrades to the Kern and Old River substations are similar in nature to those analyzed in
the EIR, and would not impact stormwater drainage facilities or require the expansion of existing
facilities. The proposed modifications to the project do not change the finding in the certified EIR of less
than significant. The proposed modifications to the project would not change the finding in the certified
EIR of less than significant. Based on the foregoing, no new or revised mitigation measures are required.
Mitigation Measures
No changes to mitigation measures adopted in previously certified Final EIR..
significant.
(b)
Require new or expanded water supply entitlements?
As discussed in the certified EIR, the approved project would require about 31.92 acre-feet of water
during construction and 1.5 acre-feet of water during on-going operation and maintenance throughout the
life of the project. Water for construction and operations would be obtained from the Kern Delta Water
District via Farmers Canal.
Mitigation Measure MM 4.14-1 would be required to ensure that the appropriate water supply contracts
are in place prior to construction of the approved project. Because the proposed project would use
significantly less water per year than the historical agricultural use (i.e., cotton production at 3-acre feet of
water per acre), and KDWD and CWSC have committed to supplying water to the proposed project,
construction impacts would be less than significant with implementation of Mitigation Measure MM
4.14-1.
Operation and maintenance of solar facilities require periodic washing of the solar panels as well as
trucks, maintenance equipment, and ancillary facilities. According to industry standards and the available
data, an estimated 3,300 gallons of potable water, or its equivalent, are required per megawatt per year to
clean and service solar photovoltaic panels properly. Given the climatic conditions in the project area, it is
estimated that the solar panels would require cleaning approximately four times per year. Therefore, the
approved RE Old River One facility (20 MW) would require about 270,000 gallons of water per year, or
nearly 1 acre-feet.
project site, and as such would have no impact related to requiring new or expanded water supply
June 2014
3-66
entitlements. The proposed PG&E facility upgrades noted in Table 2-2, in and of themselves are minor in
nature, particularly in the context of the proposed solar project, and many of the upgrades would be
implemented internally within existing PG&E facilities. The proposed modifications to the project do not
mitigation measures are required. The proposed modified project does not create new or substantially
more severe cumulative impacts to water supply entitlements than those disclosed in the certified EIR and
impacts would remain less than significant as stated in the certified EIR.
Mitigation Measures
significant.
(c) Be served by a landfill with sufficient permitted capacity to accommodate the project’s solid waste
disposal needs?
As noted in the EIR, construction and operation of the approved project would produce minimal amounts
of solid waste. Therefore, construction of the approved project would result in less-than-significant
impacts.
project site, and as such would have no impact related to solid waste and landfill facilities. The proposed
PG&E facility upgrades noted in Table 2-2, in and of themselves are minor in nature, particularly in the
context of the proposed solar project, and many of the upgrades would be implemented internally within
existing PG&E facilities. Upgrades, including the proposed ½ miles gen-tie line, installation of new
approximately 85 foot and 95 foot transmission poles, and associated equipment, as well as internal
upgrades to the Kern and Old River substations are similar in nature to those analyzed in the EIR, and
would not impact existing landfill facilities.
significant. Based on the foregoing, no new or revised mitigation measures are required..
Mitigation Measures
No changes to mitigation measures adopted in the previously certified Final EIR.
June 2014
3-67
significant.
(d) Comply with federal, state and local statutes and regulations related to solid waste?
The proposed project would generate minimal amounts of solid waste during construction and operation.
However, the reuse and recycling of construction debris would reduce operating expenses and save
valuable landfill space. Therefore, the approved project would not be expected to affect nearby county
landfills significantly. The approved project would be required to comply with all state and local statues
and regulations related to solid waste. The approved project would result in less-than-significant impacts.
The proposed lot line adjustment (LLA 23-14) will reconfigure the internal boundaries of the proposed
project site, and as such would have no impact related to complying with federal, state and local statutes
and regulations related to solid waste. The proposed PG&E facility upgrades outlined in Table 2-2, in and
of themselves are minor in nature, particularly in the context of the proposed solar project, and many of
the upgrades would be implemented internally within existing PG&E facilities. The proposed
on the foregoing, no new or revised mitigation measures are required.
Mitigation Measures
No changes to mitigation measures adopted in the previously certified Final EIR will be necessary.
significant.
Cumulative Impacts
As noted in the EIR, the approved project’s incremental contribution to an increased need of utilities and
service systems is considered in the context of other past, present, and reasonably foreseeable future
projects in the area. Because the approved project would not require the use of existing utilities and
service systems, existing facilities would not need to be expanded, and thus would not contribute to a
cumulative impact.
Because the proposed modified project would not require the use of existing utilities and service systems
beyond what was described and analyzed in the certified EIR, existing utility or service system facilities
would not need to be expanded. The proposed modified project would not substantially contribute to a
cumulative impact. For these reasons, the proposed modifications to the project do not create new or
substantially more severe cumulative impacts than those disclosed in the certified EIR and would be
June 2014
3-68
mitigated to the maximum extent practicable by the incorporation of all feasible and applicable mitigation
measures.
Mitigation Measures
Final EIR.
cumulatively less than significant.
.
June 2014
3-69
Chapter 4
List of Preparers
4.1
LEAD AGENCY
Kern County Planning & Community Development Department
Lorelei H. Oviatt, AICP – Director
Craig M. Murphy – Division Chief
Jacqui Kitchen – Supervising Planner
Carlos Rojas – Planner I
4.2
PROJECT PROPONENT
Mr. Mark Walker,
RE Old River One LLC
PO Box 25459
Richmond, VA 23260-5459
4.3
TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE
Quad Knopf
Jaymie L. Brauer – Senior Planner, Project Manager
Annalisa Perea- Associate Planner
Addendum to RE Old River 1 & 2 Solar Project EIR
June 2014
4-1
Chapter 5
References
California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Division 6, Chapter 3, Sections 15000-15387, Appendix G.
State CEQA Guidelines.
California Department of Transportation (Caltrans). (2007, December 7). California Scenic Highway
Mapping System. Accessed March 18, 2010 Available at:
http://www.dot.ca.gov/hq/LandArch/scenic_highways/index.htm.
County of Kern. July 2012. Kern County Zoning Ordinance. Available at:
http://www.co.kern.ca.us/planning/pdfs/KCZOJuly2012.pdf
County of Kern Planning and Community Development Department. September 22, 2009. Kern County
General Plan. Bakersfield, CA. Available at: http://www.co.kern.ca.us/planning/pdfs/kcgp/KCGP.pdf
Addendum to RE Old River 1 & 2 Solar Project EIR
April 2014
5-1
APPENDIX A- Biological Survey
April 23, 2014
Mr. Mark Walker
RE Old River One LLC
8th & Main Building
707 East Main Street
Richmond, VA 23219
Subject:
Biological Survey Conducted for RE Old River One commercial solar project
Bakersfield, Kern County, California
Dear Mr. Walker,
At the request of RE Old River One LLC, Quad Knopf, Inc. (Quad Knopf) conducted a
reconnaissance-level biological survey for special-status species along the proposed new rightof-way located on the north side of Shafter Road, in southwest Bakersfield, Kern County,
California. The survey was conducted in support of an amendment to the existing EIR (SCH
2010121058) for relocation of the gen-tie in line from its original planned ROW. Because
construction will occur during the bird nesting season, attention was also given to the potential
for impacts to nesting birds.
No special-status species or their sign were observed and no active nesting birds were observed
during the survey. The proposed project site does not provide any suitable conditions for nesting
birds.
PROJECT AND SITE DESCRIPTION
The biological survey was conducted for the proposed relocation of 115KV Generation tie line
within Section 21, Township 31 South, Range 27 East, Mount Diablo Base and Meridian
Specifically, the project area consists of approximately a quarter of a mile along the north
shoulder of Shafter road, west of the intersection with Gosford Road (Figure 1). The proposed
project entails compaction and disturbance along the existing Shafter road right-of-way, and
instillation of multiple power poles and transmission lines (Figure 2).
Methods
On April 18 2014, Quad Knopf biologist, Sarah Crenshaw, conducted a reconnaissance-level
biological survey of the proposed project site along Shafter road from Progress road east to
Gosford road. The survey consisted of walking line transects of project site, including a 250-foot
buffer area. Information on special-status species within a 3-mile radius of the project sites was
obtained from the California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB).
Field Survey Results
CNDDB records indicate observations of Tipton kangaroo rat (Dipodomys nitatodies nitratoides)
and San Joaquin kit fox (Vulpes macrotis mutica) within 5 miles of the project site. Western
burrowing owls (Ammospermophilus nelsoni) have also been observed within 10 miles. Several
small mammal burrows were observed during the survey; however, no burrowing indicative of
kangaroo rats was observed. No potential San Joaquin kit fox dens, nor potential burrowing owl
burrows, were identified at the time of survey. A list of wildlife species observed during the
reconnaissance-level biological survey is included in Table 1.
No threatened/endangered wildlife species, their sign, or any listed plant species were observed
on site during the time of survey. No federal or state protected waters or stream channels occur
on the proposed project site therefore, no impacts to jurisdictional waters will occur. The project
site lies along an existing road, with a disked field to the north and orchards to the south
(Attachment A?). The majority of the survey site has a significant amount of human disturbance,
bare soil, and non-native plant species (see Photoplates in Attachment B). A list of plant and
animal species observed on the Project site is provided in Table 1.
Table 1 – Observed Plant and Animal Species
Scientific name
Common name
Wildlife
Buteo regalis
Ferruginous hawk
Canis lupus familiaris
domestic dog
Corvus corax
common raven
Euphagus cyanocephalus
Brewer’s blackbird
Icterus bullockii
Bullock’s oriole
Mimus polyglottos
northern mockingbird
Myrmeleontidae sp.
antlion sp.*
Passer domesticus
house sparrow
Spermophilus beecheyi
California ground squirrel
Thomomys bottae
Botta’s pocket gopher*
Trochilidae sp.
hummingbird sp.
Turdus migratorius
American robin
Tyrannus verticalis
western kingbird
Uta stansburiana
side-blotched lizard
Zenaida macroura
mourning dove
Plants
Amsinkia menziezii var. intermedia
fiddleneck
Bromus madritensis ssp. rubens
red brome
Erodium cicutarium
filaree
Eucalyptus sp.
eucalyptus sp.
Lactuca serriola
prickly lettuce
Malva parviflora
Salsola tragus
Sisymbrium irio
Tamerix l.
Tribulus terrestris
Trichostema lanceolatum
cheeseweed
Russian thistle
rocket mustard
tamarisk sp.
goatheads weed
vinegarweed
*Indicates that only sign (scat, tracks, digs, etc.) of this species was observed and
no individuals were observed.
Recommended Avoidance and Minimization Measures
Several special-status species, including Tipton kangaroo rat, San Joaquin kit fox, and western
burrowing owl, could potentially occur within the vicinity of the project site, but were not
identified during the reconnaissance-level biological survey. Follow is a list of recommended
avoidance and minimization measure that could be implemented to ensure project activities have
no impact of special-status species that could occur in the vicinity of the project site: .







All small mammal burrows present within the proposed project area will be flagged and
avoided during vegetation clearing activities.
Construction activities should take place outside of avian nesting season, in order to
avoid impacts to nesting birds protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.
Project-related vehicles should observe a 20 mph speed limit in all project areas, except
on county roads and state and federal highways; this is particularly important at night
when kit foxes are most active. To the extent possible, nighttime construction should be
minimized. Off-road traffic outside of designated project areas should be prohibited.
To prevent inadvertent entrapment of kit foxes or other animals during work being
conducted, the contractor will cover all excavated, steep-walled holes or trenches more
than 2 feet deep at the close of each working day with plywood or similar materials, or
provide one or more escape ramps constructed of earth fill or wooden planks. Before
such holes or trenches are filled, the contractor will thoroughly inspect them for trapped
animals.
Kit foxes are attracted to den-like structures such as pipes and may enter stored pipe
becoming trapped or injured. All construction pipes, culverts, or similar structures with a
diameter of 4 inches or greater that are stored at a construction site for one or more
overnight periods should be thoroughly inspected for kit foxes before the pipe is
subsequently buried, capped, or otherwise used or moved in anyway.
All trash and food items will be contained in closed containers and properly disposed at
the end of each work day.
To prevent harassment, mortality of kit foxes or destruction of dens by dogs or cats, no
pets should be permitted on project sites.
Conclusion
Although several small mammal digs were observed on site during the time of survey, no
potential San Joaquin kit fox dens, burrowing owl burrows, or other threatened or endangered
species sign was observed. Multiple bird species were identified, as well as an abundance of
potential nesting habitat, however, no nests or nesting activity was observed by the surveying
biologist. The proposed project area lies along an existing road, through agricultural fields and
rural homes, and appears highly and continuously disturbed. Though sensitive species have been
historically known to inhabit in the general area, due to its level and consistency of disturbance,
it is unlikely to provide suitable habitat for these species.
If you have any questions, comments, or require additional information, please do not hesitate to
call me at (661) 616-2600.
Sincerely,
Sarah Crenshaw
Sarah Crenshaw
Associate Environmental Scientist
Quad Knopf Inc.
Cc: Jaymie Brauer, Quad Knopf, Inc.
APPENDIX B- Cultural Resource Survey
AN ADDITIONAL
PHASE I CULTURAL RESOURCE SURVEY
SOLAR FARM SITE (OLD RIVER), SHAFTER AND ASHE ROADS,
KERN COUNTY, CALIFORNIA
Submitted to:
Quad Knopf, Inc.
5080 California Avenue, Suite 400
For
RE Old River One, LLC
300 California Street, 8th Floor
San Francisco, California 94104
Keywords:
Connor 7.5' Quadrangle, Kern County
California Environmental Quality Act
Submitted by:
Hudlow Cultural Resource Associates
1405 Sutter Lane
Author:
Scott M. Hudlow
April 2014
Management Summary
At the request of Quad Knopf for Old River One, LLC, an additional Cultural
Resource Survey was conducted on approximately one mile of gen tie line rightof-way. The right-of-way extends from the western edge of the original project
area at the southwest corner of Shafter Road and Ashe Road along Shafter
Road to the west in Kern County, California. The Cultural Resource survey
consisted of a cultural resource pedestrian survey.
No additional cultural resources were identified. No further work is required. If
archaeological resources are encountered during the course of construction, a
qualified archaeologist should be consulted for further evaluation.
If human remains or potential human remains are observed during construction,
work in the vicinity of the remains will cease, and they will be treated in
accordance with the provisions of State Health and Safety Code Section 7050.5.
The protection of human remains follows California Public Resources Codes,
Sections 5097.94, 5097.98, and 5097.99.
Table of Contents
Management Summary .................................................................................................. 2
Table of Contents ............................................................................................................. 3
List of Figures ...................................................................................................................... 3
1.0
Introduction ........................................................................................................... 4
2.0
Survey Location .................................................................................................... 4
3.0
Record Search ...................................................................................................... 4
4.0
Report of Findings. ................................................................................................ 5
5.0
Management Recommendations ..................................................................... 5
Appendix I (Resume)...................................................................................................... 11
List of Figures
1
Project Area Location Map ................................................................................ 7
1.0
Introduction
At the request of Quad Knopf and RE Old River One LLC, Hudlow Cultural
Resource Associates conducted an additional Cultural Resource Survey on
approximately 1 mile for the proposed gen tie lines connecting the proposed
solar farm at Shafter and Ashe Roads. The proposed gen tie lines attach to the
western edge of the proposed solar farm, and largely run about 50 feet on
private property along Shafter Road in Kern County, California. This project is
being undertaken in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act
(CEQA). The Cultural Resource Survey consisted of a cultural resource
pedestrian survey.
2.0
Survey Location
The project area is in Kern County. The proposed solar farm lies at the
southwest corner of Ashe and Shafter Roads, Kern County, California. The new
proposed gen tie line is proposed to connect the proposed solar farm to the
power grid. This gen-tie line extends along the southern edge of Shafter Road
along the northern edge of the NW ¼ of Section 21, T.31S., R.27E., Mount Diablo
Baseline and Meridian. At the corner of Shafter Road and Gosford Road, the
proposed gen tie line moves to the north side of Shafter road, running along the
southern edge of the SE ¼ of Section 17, T.31S., R.27E., Mount Diablo Baseline
and Meridian. Further, the proposed gen tie line extends along the existing 440
KV line in Section 20, and along the quarter section between the NW ¼ and the
NE ¼ of Section 20, T.31S., R.27E., Mount Diablo Baseline and Meridian as
displayed on the United States Geological Survey (USGS) Conner 7.5-minute
quadrangle map (Figure 1).
3.0
Record Search
An archaeological record search of the project area and the environs
within one mile was conducted at the Southern San Joaquin Archaeological
Information Center. Scott M. Hudlow conducted the record search, RS#10-311,
on July 6, 2010. The record search revealed that nine cultural resource surveys
have been conducted within one mile radius of the project area. One previous
survey had been conducted within the current project area (Hudlow 2001). Two
cultural resources have been recorded within one mile of the project area, a
prehistoric isolate and the Sunset Railroad. No cultural resources have been
identified within the current project area.
An additional archaeological record search of the project area and the
environs within one mile was conducted at the Southern San Joaquin
Archaeological Information Center. Scott M. Hudlow conducted the record
search, RS#11-197, on May 25, 2011. The record search revealed that five
additional cultural resource surveys have been conducted within one mile radius
of the project area. No additional cultural resources have been recorded within
one mile of the project area, and No additional cultural resources have been
identified within the current project area.
4.0
Report of Findings
No cultural resources were identified within the current project area.
5.0
Management Recommendations
At the request of Quad Knopf for Old River One, LLC, an additional
Cultural Resource Survey was conducted on approximately one mile of gen tie
line right-of-way. The proposed gen tie lines attach to the western edge of the
proposed solar farm, and largely run about 50 feet on private property along
Shafter Road in Kern County, California. The Cultural Resource survey consisted
of a cultural resource pedestrian survey.
No additional cultural resources were identified. No further work is
required. If archaeological resources are encountered during the course of
construction, a qualified archaeologist should be consulted for further
evaluation.
If human remains or potential human remains are observed during
construction, work in the vicinity of the remains will cease, and they will be
treated in accordance with the provisions of State Health and Safety Code
Section 7050.5. The protection of human remains follows California Public
Resources Codes, Sections 5097.94, 5097.98, and 5097.99.
Figure 1
Project Area Location Map
Appendix I
(Resume)
Scott M. Hudlow
1405 Sutter Lane
(661) 834-9183
Education
The George Washington University
M.A. American Studies, 1993
Specialization in Historical Archaeology
and Architectural History
University of California, Berkeley
B.A. History, 1987
B.A. Anthropology, 1987
Specialization in Historical Archaeology
and Colonial History
Public Service
3/94-12/02 Historic Preservation Commission. City of Bakersfield, Bakersfield,
California 93305.
7/97-12/01 Newsletter Editor. California History Action, newsletter for the
California Council for the Promotion of History.
Relevant Work Experience
8/96- Adjutant Faculty. Bakersfield College, 1801 Panorama Drive, Bakersfield,
California, 93305. Teach History 17A, Introduction to American History and
Anthropology 5, Introduction to North American Indians.
Owner, Sole Proprietorship. Hudlow Cultural Resource Associates. 1405 Sutter
Lane, Bakersfield California 93309. Operate small cultural resource
management business. Manage contracts, respond to RFP's, bill clients,
manage temporary employees. Conduct Phase I archaeological and
architectural surveys for private and public clients; including the cultural
resource survey, documentary photography, measured drawings,
mapping of structures, filing of survey forms, historic research, assessing
impact and writing reports. Evaluated archaeological and architectural
sites and properties in lieu of their eligibility for the National Register of
Historic Places in association with Section 106 and 110 requirements of the
National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 and CEQA (California
Environmental Quality Act).
Full resume available upon request.

Addendum to the EIR

Transcription

Similar documents

Letter

oc pepper spray certification course

Prelude 9x12 HS Cover

matthias kolowrat

Right the Wrong

CEQA 101 Presentation - Northern California Chapter of the

SUSTAINABLE PACIFIC GROVE APRIL MEETING

Burlington County Times - Solar - color.indd

TrueLook