Marin County Open Space District has prepared a draft Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration (IS/MND) for its Bridges and Trail Improvement project in Cascade Canyon Preserve. This proposed project would improve habitat for sensitive wildlife species while improving the safety and accessibility of the trail system in the preserve. The design was developed through engagement with the local community, town of Fairfax, visitors and study of the wildlife and natural resources in the area over the past six years and includes the installation of trail bridges to protect fish, frogs and other wildlife in the area.
The IS/MND and online comment form and information about a public meeting on March 4th is available on the Marin County Parks website at Cascade Canyon. If you have any questions, please contact Principle Natural Resources Planner Jon Campo.
As background, the proposed project was originally presented to the general public in a meeting held at the Fairfax Women’s Club in September 2016. Subsequently, the Council discussed the project at its December 2016 and January 2017 meetings. In April 2017, the Council approved a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Marin County Open Space District (MCOSD) to consent to the project with specific conditions. The Town had the right to review the proposed improvements in the Elliott Nature Preserve as a result of conditions placed on the transfer of the Elliott Nature Preserve by the Town of Fairfax to the MCOSD in 1987.