Goals

• Secure environmental permits and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements for the development of the Pacific Commons retail project
• Design and construct vernal pool habitat for endangered species 
• Conduct monitoring and management of the Pacific Commons Preserve

Project Description

In 1989, WRA began working with developers on the Pacific Commons project to secure environmental permits for the development of an 875-acre parcel in Fremont, California. WRA worked with developers to ensure regulatory compliance and to conserve a 444-acre portion of the site for restoration. WRA developed and implemented an Ecological Restoration and Long-term Management Plan which restored vernal pool topography and re-established the federal endangered vernal pool tadpole shrimp. The project resulted in the creation of an open space preserve and the successful construction and establishment of 174 vernal pools.

The restored Preserve is a mosaic of vernal pools, connecting swales, and grasslands which are home to vernal pool tadpole shrimp, California tiger salamander, burrowing owl, and several rare plant species including the endangered Contra Costa goldfields. The project required close coordination with local, state, and federal agencies, and was reviewed favorably by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. WRA continues to provide monitoring services for these restored and created habitats, working with the USFWS to monitor and control invasive weeds and to coordinate grazing operations.

Deliverables

• Federal and State Permits
• Wetland Restoration and Management Plan
• Annual Monitoring and Reporting
• Long Term Management Plan