Folsom Lake State Recreation Area GP/RMP and EIR/EIS

The Folsom Lake State Recreation Area (SRA), located at the confluence of the north and south forks of the American River, encompasses approximately 18,000 acres of water and land. LSA was the lead environmental consultant on a multidisciplinary team contracted to prepare the Folsom Lake State Recreation Area General Plan/Resource Management Plan, a joint document required by the California Department of Parks and Recreation and the United States Bureau of Reclamation. LSA prepared a comprehensive Resource Inventory based on a multi-year survey effort of natural and cultural resources, with background research, literature review, and extensive GIS mapping. The Resource Inventory addressed fire management, invasive plants, special status species, ambient noise, air quality, traffic, cultural and historic resources, native plants, adjacent residences, land use policies for relevant jurisdictions, existing recreation facilities, scenic resources, and water quality. LSA developed resource management policies for the entire SRA with policies for specific vegetation communities and habitats within 33 identified management areas. An accompanying cultural resources management plan outlined appropriate practices for identifying and managing historic and prehistoric resources. These resource policies became a critical component of the General Plan/Resource Management Plan for the future development potential, ongoing management, and public use of the SRA.

LSA prepared the EIR and EIS for the General Plan/Resource Management Plan (Plan), evaluating various development and management strategies as alternatives to the proposed project. LSA used a matrix approach to assess the potential environmental impacts of alternative development strategies within 33 management zones. LSA also prepared the response to comments document addressing comments on both the Plan and the EIR/EIS. The State Park and Recreation Commission certified the EIR/EIS and approved the Plan in October 2009.

Client: California Department of Parks and Recreation

Location: El Dorado, Sacramento, and Placer Counties, California