Cultural Resources Study for the Tolay Lake Regional Park

LSA conducted a cultural resources study of the newly acquired Tolay Lake Regional Park, a 1,700-acre park approximately five miles southeast of Petaluma, Sonoma County, California. The study addressed the requirements of Section 106 and CEQA. LSA conducted background research of the project area, including a records search and archival research at various Sonoma County repositories; consultation with the Federated Indians of the Graton Rancheria, other Native American organizations, and historical societies; a historical evaluation; and a pedestrian field survey. Resources were documented and integrated into a GIS database to assist the Sonoma County Regional Park Department’s planning efforts. LSA’s study identified a National Register-eligible historic district in the project area, with both historical and prehistoric themes. The historical theme consisted of a ranching complex and agricultural landscape ranching features, while the prehistoric theme included a diversity of Native American archaeological sites, including one of the richest deposits of charmstones ever identified in North America.

LSA developed management strategies and guidelines for development decisions as a basis for the Park’s Master Plan. LSA’s Section 106 eligibility conclusions and impacts assessment received concurrence from the California State Historic Preservation Officer. LSA is currently assisting the department with Native American consultation and will be developing a treatment plan and agreement document to address adverse effects to historic properties.

Client: Sonoma County Regional Parks Department

Location: City of Petaluma, Sonoma County, California