COMMISSION

Los Osos Knoll/Happiness Connection Trail Area Project
In the past, trail proliferation among Carnegie SVRA’s steep topography led to the decline
of vegetative cover, increased soil erosion, and affected water quality and wildlife. Carnegie
SVRA resource and maintenance staff work in collaboration with the Carnegie Advisory
Team and California Conservation Crew to bring eroded areas back up to grade and restore
vegetation using genetically local native grass seed.
Some areas are temporarily fenced to give vegetation time to reestablish. Another method
includes recontouring a hillside to remove ruts and adding soil recovered from sediment
basins. Crews hydroseed the recontoured area using a mix of mulch and native seeds. The
hydroseed mix consists of water, tackifier to prevent seed mobilization, fine mulch (usually
a bonded-fiber matrix or wood chips), and native seeds (purple needlegrass, blue wild rye,
California fescue, and California brome). Biodegradable straw wattles are then staked into
place to prevent erosion until vegetation has taken hold.
Many of the rehabilitation sites have shown great success using these methods and are
constantly monitored to ensure it continues. The hydroseeding method of revegetating has
been highly effective and is an excellent option for restoration projects that have constraints
such as steep topography and high winds. Once vegetation is reestablished in previously
bare areas, water is slowed enough to infiltrate soils, effectively preventing erosion.
The Los Osos Knoll/Happiness Connection trail area project was completed in 2015 and
consisted of 11 acres. The timing of rain was a key component in the success of the project.
Due to the success of revegetation, the trail is now open for recreation.
Carnegie SVRA follows the guidelines in the OHV Trails and Facilities section of the 2011
Storm Water Management Plan, which includes Best Management Practices (BMPs) and
techniques. Carnegie SVRA’s resource and trail teams plan and create new sustainable
trails to provide a balance between recreation and habitat.
Los Osos Knoll/Happiness Connection Trail - before
Los Osos Knoll/Happiness Connection Trail - after
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California State Parks, Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Commission