BEsT MANAGEMENT PRACTICEs HANDbooK - Tahoe BMP

Scenic Resources and project compliance with TRPA scenic requirements is amajor consideration in the planning of shorezone projects; during projectplanning, consider scenic design. The construction of hard-engineered shorelineprotective structures (unnatural looking structures) can contribute to loweringthe scenic quality threshold standard ratings for shoreline scenic units, unlessthe structure includes scenic mitigation. Concepts such as incorporation ofwoody vegetation, design of vertical walls with a weathered granite appearance,wall simulations of rocks/natural materials, and consider incorporation ofrocks/natural materials in front of vertical walls at every opportunity. TheTRPA project review process for shorezone protective structures must balancethe best design for supporting water quality, scenic quality, and associatedenvironmental values.Wildlife and Fisheries is also a major consideration when planning shorezoneprojects. A project proponent should know whether the project area is locatedin a prime fish habitat area as indicated on TRPA Prime Fish Habitat maps. Ifthe project is near the TRPA mapped boundary of a fish habitat area a mappedborderline, or field verification, will be required prior to submitting the projectapplication. Use the Wildlife and Fisheries Dichotomous Key below todetermine whether further review may be necessary for a project.8.1.9.1 DICHOTOMOUS KEY FOR ‘PERMITTEE STEERING” TOOL –WILDLIFE AND FISHERIESWILDLIFE1. Is the project area located in a lagoon or still-water area supporting aquaticvegetation?(a) Yes. Further environmental review and/or assessment may be necessaryto determine the potential project related impacts to onshore wildlifehabitat(b) No. Two2. Is the project area located within 0.5 mile of an active bald eagle nest orwithin 0.25 mile of active osprey nest; see TRPA Regional Plan OverlayMaps?(a) Yes. Further environmental review and/or assessment may be necessaryto determine the potential project related impacts to onshore wildlifehabitat. Limited operation period and/or disturbance zone avoidancemay be required(b) No. Three3. Does the project area include potential habitat for wildlife or nestingwaterfowl?(a) Yes. Further environmental review and/or assessment may be necessaryto determine the potential project related impacts to onshore wildlifehabitat(b) No. The project will likely not adversely impact onshore wildlife habitat,including waterfowl nesting areasTRPA BMP HandbookCHAPTER 8: Shorezone Protective Structures and BMPs2012 Page 8-19