Environmental Impact Statement - Sonoma Land Trust

California Department of Fish and Game
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Section 3.13. Cultural Resources
Figure 3.13-1). The architectural APE includes the limits of all parcels within the
project area including the power pole alignment (as no structures are located in
Tolay Creek or the breach locations).
Data Sources
Records Search
On September 19, 2007 a Jones & Stokes archaeologist conducted a record
search at the Northwest Information Center (NWIC) of the California Historical
Resources Information System for the Project area and a 1-mile radius of the
project area. The state’s database of previous studies and known cultural
resources, as well as pertinent historic maps and historical inventories, were
consulted as part of the records search.
Native American Consultation
On October 9, 2007 Jones & Stokes sent out letter to Native American groups
and individuals identified by the Native American Heritage Commission
(NAHC) as having knowledge of the area. No responses have been received to
date Follow-up letters were sent on July 28, 2010 by Tom Origer and Associates
(Tom Origer & Associates 2010b). Responses were received from the NAHC and
Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria (FIGR), indicating that NAHC has no
information about resources in the immediate project area (NAHC 2010), and
that the FIGR has minimal concerns about the project because of the lack of
known resources and the small amount of soil disturbance (FIGR 2010).
Subsequent to the July 28, 2010 letter, Tom Origer and Associates conducted a
cultural resources assessment for the new power pole alignment and the
perimeter marsh and subtidal habitat in the vicinity of the Connector Channel
(Tom Origer & Associates 2011a). The survey indicated that the power pole area
is unlikely to contain buried cultural resources artifacts, but that there may be
buried remains of the Sonoma Valley Rail Road and wharf in the vicinity of the
Connector Channel (Tom Origer & Associates, 2011a); however, an intrusive
survey has not been conducted. USFWS cultural resources experts will also
review the survey. The survey included contacting the NAHC and FIGR (Tom
Origer & Associates 2011b-d). In response to the 2011 Tom Origer and
Associates letter regarding the alternative PG&E power line alignment, FIGR
responded that although they have no knowledge of sacred or ceremonial sites at
this specific location, FIGR would like to begin consultation, and would like
additional information on the depth of soil disturbance and excavation (FIGR
2011). USFWS as the lead federal agency has directly contacted the FIGR, and
FIGR representatives expressed an interest in soil borings of the potentially
affected area (Brubaker, pers. comm. 2012).
Sears Point Wetland and Watershed Restoration
Project Final Environmental Impact
Report/Environmental Impact Statement
3.13-2
April 2012