Renee Fernandez-Lipp

The agenda focuses on several determination items, including the approval of professional services agreements for ecological restoration and bank erosion repair projects. Key topics include contract amendments for habitat restoration and the CCRCD EPA project, the appointment of an associate board member, the nomination of a representative to the CSDA Board of Directors, and the adoption of policies regarding grants and contracts. Additionally, the agenda covers a contract for invasive weed treatment and a decision on joining a coalition letter regarding state budget priorities.

The forum meeting focused on the California Fish Passage Forum's mission to protect and revitalize anadromous populations by restoring freshwater connectivity. Key topics included an overview of the forum's work, its affiliation with the National Fish Habitat Partnership program, and the collaboration with other West Coast partnerships. A significant portion of the discussion detailed the California Passage Assessment Database (PAD), including its structure, data sources (from over 100 organizations), and utility for identifying fish passage barriers. Science and data work, including workshops and standardization of post-barrier removal monitoring data, were presented. The forum's funding opportunities, prioritizing projects under $100,000 related to barrier removal, assessment, and outreach, were reviewed, highlighting past achievements like the restoration efforts on the Pinnol Creek I80 crossing and Wildcat Creek project. The presentation also noted the need for a one-to-one non-federal financial match for funded projects, with exceptions for tribal entities. Finally, awareness regarding simplified permitting pathways, promoted through resources like the Accelerating Restoration website, was discussed. Separately, the Pacific Marine and Estuary Partnership (PMP) presented its focus on coastal and estuarine fish habitat conservation, funding up to $100,000 for restoration and assessment projects, including recent work on the Smith River and eelgrass restoration at Catalina Island.

The meeting included a presentation providing an overview of the CCRCD's social media analytics, highlighting engagement successes and outlining 2026 plans. Key determination items involved approvals for a subcontract with Solano RCD for the Greater Bay Area Conservation Hub, approval of a grant award with CalRecycle for Farm & Ranch Solid Waste Cleanup & Abatement, approval for the Board President to sign a three-year auditing services engagement letter with Richardson & Company, LLP, approval of contracting Civicorps for vegetation management of Little Frank's Tract, and approval of an Amended Contract with Environmental Science Associates (ESA) for Peyton Slough Water Quality Improvements. The Board also considered travel authorization expense for an employee to attend the NACD Annual Meeting. Determination regarding CARCD officers' election, bylaws, and resolutions was postponed to seek further clarification. Reports included updates on the Shoreline Leadership Council, Climate Action Corps cohorts, and funding status.

The meeting included reports from the NRCS regarding EQIP and CSP funding deadlines and staffing challenges. Key determination items involved the approval of a grant award with the Contra Costa Fish and Wildlife Committee for the Tracking Western Pond Turtle Upland Traversal project, approval of an Independent Contractor Agreement with Habitat Potential for work on a Flood Control District-funded Mitigation Project, and consideration for the Executive Director to sign a Letter of Commitment for the Ohlone Land Conservancy's Ohlone Cultural Gardens Restoration and Mitigation Project. Discussion topics included considering the necessity of an insurance bond, involving DVC/CCC for student outreach, and demonstrating long-term social investment. Reports noted a director's resignation and updates on compost distribution efforts by the City of Brentwood.

The board received an update on NRCS programs and generative agriculture initiatives. Key actions included recommending candidates for board appointments and certifying the Final Environmental Impact Report for the Marsh Creek Restoration Project. The board approved an extension for the Water Efficiency Technical Assistance grant and multiple contract amendments, including work with Environmental Science Associates and Alameda County RCD. Additionally, the board determined voting recommendations for CARCD officers and bylaws, authorized travel expenses for a conference, and approved a letter of support for the Good Fire Act legislation. Discussions were also held regarding future policy for minor contract amendments.