Environmental Impact Statement - Sonoma Land Trust

Section 3.14
Aesthetics
Introduction
This section discusses the aesthetics effects of the proposed alternatives,
including the no-action alternative, with emphasis on the potential for changes in
the character of views of the property from adjacent areas or increases in glare at
the site. Included in this section are a description of the project site’s visual
setting; and an overview of the federal, state, and local policies and regulations
that govern mitigation requirements for aesthetics.
Affected Environment
Data Sources
The evaluation of aesthetics is based on information contained in the Existing
Conditions Report for the Sears Point Restoration Project (Wetlands and Water
Resources 2005b), the Sonoma County General Plan (County of Sonoma 1989),
and information collected during a site visit conducted in November 2007.
Specific reference information is provided in the text.
Regional Setting
The project site is located in a rural agricultural area in an unincorporated portion
of Sonoma County. Site topography ranges from rolling uplands north of
Highway 37 to uniformly level lowland and diked bayland areas south of
Highway 37. With the exception of a small number of barns, houses, and
outbuildings scattered throughout the project site and along Highway 37, the
Project area and its surrounds are predominantly undeveloped, comprising a
mixture of tidal, seasonal, and riparian wetlands, streams, and upland habitats.
San Pablo Bay defines the southern boundary of the project site, but is generally
not visible from local roadways or from properties located adjacent to the project
site.
Sears Point Wetland and Watershed Restoration
Project Final Environmental Impact
Report/Environmental Impact Statement
3.14-1
April 2012