09 Staff Report.Sequoia Second Amendment with attachments
PREPARED BY: Nicolle Burnham
Parks and Public Works Director
Reviewed by: Assistant Town Manager, Town Attorney and Finance Director
110 E. Main Street Los Gatos, CA 95030 ● (408) 354-6832
www.losgatosca.gov
TOWN OF LOS GATOS
COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
MEETING DATE: 01/21/2025 ITEM NO: 9
DATE: January 16, 2025
TO: Mayor and Town Council
FROM: Chris Constantin, Town Manager
SUBJECT: Authorize the Town Manager to Execute a Second Amendment to the
Agreement for Services with Sequoia Ecological Consulting Inc. to Increase
the Contract Amount by $6,440 for an Adjusted Contract Amount Not to
Exceed $237,795 for Vegetation Management – Townwide Open Spaces
Project (CIP No. 832-4508)
RECOMMENDATION:
Authorize the Town Manager to execute a Second Amendment (Attachment 1) to the
Agreement for Services with Sequoia Ecological Consulting, Inc. (Sequoia) to increase the
Contract Amount by $6,440 for an adjusted contract amount not to exceed $237,795 for
Vegetation Management – Townwide Open Spaces Project (CIP No. 832-4508).
BACKGROUND:
On August 6, 2024, the Town Council authorized the Town Manager to execute an agreement
with Sequoia in the amount of $181,165 to provide environmental management and
compliance services for vegetation management in Town owned open space areas.
On October 15, 2024, the Town Council authorized the Town Manager to execute the First
Amendment to the agreement to amend the scope of services and increase the compensation
to $231,355.
DISCUSSION:
Sequoia continues to support staff in addressing the extensive environmental requirements
associated with wildfire risk reduction in town open spaces. As work has progressed, additional
requirements of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) have been identified.
This second contract amendment documents the scope of services associated with addressing
PAGE 2 OF 3 SUBJECT: Authorize Second Amendment to Agreement for Services with Sequoia Ecological Inc. DATE: January 16, 2025
the CDFW comments and increases the contract amount by $6,440 to cover the cost of the
additional services.
CONCLUSION:
Approving this amendment will allow Sequoia to support staff in implementing the open space
vegetation management/wildfire risk reduction work that is planned for spring 2025.
FISCAL IMPACT:
The fiscal table below reflects the budget for Phase 2 of this project, including the requested
FEMA Hazard Mitigation Grant Program funds.
Budget Costs
Phase 2 - Source of Funds
GFAR 530,448$
FEMA Hazard Mitigation Grant 1,627,320$
Total Budget 2,157,768$
Costs
Phase 2 - Expenditures
Previously Authorized Consultant Services Agreement with
Sequoia Ecological Consulting 231,355$
Second Amendment to Consultant Services Agreement with
Sequoia Ecological Consulting (Requested with this Staff
Report)6,440$
Contractor Services for Vegetation Management (Authorized 10-
15-24)1,513,712$
Contractor Services 20% Contingency for Vegetation
Management (Authorized on 10-15-24)302,742$
Total Expenditures 2,054,249$
Total Project Balance 103,518$
Vegetation Management - Town-wide
CIP No. 832-4508
PAGE 3 OF 3 SUBJECT: Authorize Second Amendment to Agreement for Services with Sequoia Ecological Inc. DATE: January 16, 2025
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT:
The Project Specific Analysis and Addendum concluded that all the effects of the proposed
project: (a) have been covered in the CalVTP PEIR; and (b) all applicable Standard Project
Requirements and mitigation measures identified in the CalVTP PEIR will be implemented.
The proposed project is, therefore, within the scope of the CalVTP PEIR. A Notice of
Determination has been submitted to the County of Santa Clara.
Attachments:
1. Second Amendment to Agreement for Consulting Services with Sequoia Ecological
Consulting Inc., including Exhibit A – Additional Services Scope, and Exhibit B – First
Amendment plus Original Agreement and Scope of Services
Budget Costs
Phase 2 - Source of Funds
GFAR 530,448$
FEMA Hazard Mitigation Grant 1,627,320$
Total Budget 2,157,768$
Costs
Phase 2 - Expenditures
Previously Authorized Consultant Services Agreement with Sequoia
Ecological Consulting 231,355$
Second Amendment to Consultant Services Agreement with
Sequoia Ecological Consulting (Requested with this Staff Report)6,440$
Contractor Services for Vegetation Management (Authorized 10-15-
24)1,513,712$
Contractor Services 20% Contingency for Vegetation Management
(Authorized on 10-15-24)302,742$
Total Expenditures 2,054,249$
Total Project Balance 103,518$
Vegetation Management - Town-wide
CIP No. 832-4508
Phase 2 BA requested 8/6/24 See Below
Project Costs $ 1,591,344.75
Subrecipient Management Costs $ 35,974.97
$ 1,627,319.72
SPLIT 75% FEMA(421); 25% GFAR (411)
Page 1 of 2
Second Amendment to Agreement for Consultant Services
Sequoia Ecological Consulting, Inc.
AMENDMENT TO AGREEMENT
This SECOND AMENDMENT TO AGREEMENT is dated for identification this 21st day of
January 2025 and amends that certain First Amendment to Agreement for Consultant Services
dated October 15, 2024, made by and between the Town of Los Gatos, ("Town,") and the Sequoia
Ecological Consulting, Inc. (“Consultant”) identified as an S Corporation and whose address is
1342 Creekside Drive Walnut Creek, CA 94596.
RECITALS
A.Town and Consultant entered into an Agreement for Consultant Services on August 6,
2024, (“Agreement”), a First Amendment to Agreement for Consultant Services on
October 15, 2024, copies of which is attached hereto and incorporated by reference as
Exhibit B to this Amendment.
B.Town desires to amend the Agreement to provide additional services and to add to the
compensation as described in Exhibit A of this amendment.
AMENDMENT
1.Section 2.1 Scope of Services is amended to add the services in Exhibit A of this
amendment.
2.Section 2.6 Compensation is amended to increase by $6,440 for a total amount not to
exceed $237, 795, inclusive of all costs.
Payment shall be based upon Town approval of each task based on Exhibit A.
3.All other terms and conditions of the Agreement remain in full force and effect.
ATTACHMENT 1
1342 Creekside Drive Walnut Creek, CA 94596 925.855.5500 www.sequoiaeco.com
Date: December 23, 2024
To: Nicolle Burnham
Parks and Public Works Director
Town of Los Gatos
110 E. Main St.
Los Gatos, CA 95030
From: Kyle Verblaauw| Biologist – Project Manager
Tel. (201) 787-1738 | kverblaauw@sequoiaeco.com
Sequoia Ecological Consulting, Inc.
DIR #1000022497 | DBE #40492 (CUCP/CA DOT) | SBE #1790596 (CA DGS)
RE: Scope of Work and Cost Estimate for California Department of Fish Wildlife
Consultation Memorandum for the Los Gatos Vegetation Management Project
Section 1. Cost Estimate
Sequoia anticipates providing services on a time and material (T&M) cost basis. The estimated costs for
the scope of work and assumptions provided in Sections 2 and 3 below.
TASK 1. CDFW COMMENT MEMORANDUM PREPARATION
Task Cost Type Bid Item Total
Cost
1.CDFW Comment Memorandum Preparation T&M $6,440
Section 2. General Assumptions
Assumes one round of client edits.
Cost estimate does not include coordination or communication with any regulatory agencies,
outside consultants, or other entities. These services can be provided under an amended scope
as requested.
Sequoia will not edit or provide any addenda to the Project Specific Analysis (PSA) document.
EXHIBIT A
Sequoia Ecological Consulting Scope and Quote Los Gatos Vegetation Management Project December 23, 2024
Page 2 of 2
Section 3. Scope of Work
Sequoia will continue to support the Los Gatos Vegetation Management Project by developing a
memorandum addressing the comments provided by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife
(CDFW) during the PSA review process. Sequoia will prepare the memorandum directly acknowledging
and/or addressing all CDFW comments and provide a draft to the Town of Los Gatos for review and
comments prior to submittal to the California Board of Forestry for filing. Development of the
memorandum may include additional research and/or mapping to adequately address CDFW
comments.
Closing
Sequoia carries commercial auto, general liability, workers compensation, and professional liability
insurance, and can provide a waiver of subrogation.
If you have any questions regarding our scope of work and cost estimate, or if we may be of further
assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me directly. We look forward to supporting you on this
project.
Sincerely,
Kyle Verblaauw | Biologist, Project Manager
Sequoia Ecological Consulting, Inc.
Mobile: 201.787.1738 | Main: 925.855.5500 ǀ Fax: 510.439.1104
kverblaauw@sequoiaeco.com
www.sequoiaeco.com
www.sequoiaeco.com
SEQUOIA ECOLOGICAL CONSULTING, INC.
2024 HOURLY RATE SCHEDULE
Environmental Services
Field Technician 1 $90
Field Technician 2 $105
Field Technician 3 $115
Staff Biologist 1 $120
Staff Biologist 2 $125
Staff Biologist 3 $130
Associate Biologist 1 $135
Associate Biologist 2 $140
Associate Biologist 3 $145
Project Biologist 1 $150
Project Biologist 2 $155
Project Biologist 3 $160
Resource Specialist 1 $165
Resource Specialist 2 $170
Resource Specialist 3 $175
Senior (Sr.) Biologist 1 $180
Sr. Biologist 2 $185
Sr. Biologist 3 $190
Sr. Scientist 1 $200
Sr. Scientist 2 $210
Sr. Scientist 3 $220
Sr. Technical Specialist 1 $230
Sr. Technical Specialist 2 $240
Sr. Technical Specialist 3 $250
Sr. Regulatory Specialist 1 $260
Sr. Regulatory Specialist 2 $270
Sr. Regulatory Specialist 3 $280
Env. Project Management
Assistant Project Manager 1 $165
Assistant Project Manager 2 $170
Assistant Project Manager 3 $175
Project Manager 1 $180
Project Manager 2 $185
Project Manager 3 $190
Project Manager 4 $200
Project Manager 5 $210
Project Manager 6 $220
Sr. Project Manager 1 $230
Sr. Project Manager 2 $240
Sr. Project Manager 3 $250
Program Manager 1 $260
Program Manager 2 $270
Program Manager 3 $280
Principal 1 $290
Principal 2 $300
Principal 3 $310
Sr. Principal 1 $320
Sr. Principal 2 $330
Sr. Principal 3 $340
Botanist/Arborist Services
Botanist/Arborist 1 $135
Botanist/Arborist 2 $150
Botanist/Arborist 3 $165
Sr. Botanist/Arborist 1 $185
Sr. Botanist/Arborist 2 $200
Sr. Botanist/Arborist 3 $215
Administrative Support Services
Clerical $110
Project Administrator $135
Technical Editor 1 $150
Technical Editor 2 $160
Technical Editor 3 $170
Senior Technical Editor $195
Geographic Information Services (GIS)
GIS Technician 1 $135
GIS Technician 2 $145
GIS Technician 3 $155
GIS Analyst 1 $165
GIS Analyst 2 $175
GIS Analyst 3 $185
GIS Project Manager 1 $200
GIS Project Manager 2 $210
GIS Project Manager 3 $220
GIS Specialist 1 $230
GIS Specialist 2 $240
GIS Specialist 3 $250
GIS Program Manager 1 $260
GIS Program Manager 2 $270
GIS Program Manager 3 $280
Other Direct Costs
Regular Vehicle (GSA Rate) $0.67/mile Submeter GPS $100/day
UTV and Trailer $95/day
Fleet Vehicle $95/day
iPad $10/day
Wildlife Remote Camera $20/ day
Acoustic Bat Monitor $35/day Kayak Kit $75/day
Survey Flashlight (Streamlight) $12.50/day Aquatic Survey Sampling Kit $25/person/day
Drone/sUAS $250/day Wetsuit $70/week Drysuit $195/week
YSI ProDSS Water Quality Meter $125/day
Notes on Expense Reimbursement/Other: 1.Computer, facsimile, and telephone are included in the billing rates, and
there is no additional charge. 2.Reproduction, equipment, and other direct expenses are reimbursed at cost plus a 15% administrative handling charge (excluding mileage). 3.Subconsultants will be billed at their indicated rate plus a 15% administrative handling charge; or the Sequoia labor category commensurate with their role.4.Depending upon location, Per Diem may be charged where overnight stays are required. 5.Weekly or monthly equipment rates at a reduced amount may be available on a contract-specific basis. 6.Expert Witness Testimony, including Depositions, is billed at the time and half.
7.Non-standard invoice processing will be billed at standard hourly rates for support personnel.
8.Sequoia will review our hourly rates annually and may choose to escalate our rate sheet depending on changes to the cost- of living- index and other
factors. 9.Hours beyond 8 hours per day are charged at an overtime rate of 1.5 times our
standard hourly rates for qualifying personnel. To comply with California Labor Code 512 and California Code of Regulations 11040, if on-site conditions prohibit personnel from taking required breaks, one additional hour of time will be billed per day for qualifying staff covered under theregulations.
Page 2 of 2
Second Amendment to Agreement for Consultant Services
Sequoia Ecological Consulting, Inc.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Town and Consultant have executed this Amendment.
Town of Los Gatos: Sequoia Ecological Consulting, Inc. by:
_______________________________ ______________________________
Chris Constantin, Town Manager Debie Montana, Chief Executive Officer
Department Approval:
_______________________________________
Nicolle Burnham
Director of Parks and Public Works
Approved as to Form: Attest:
______________________________ ______________________________
Gabrielle Whelan, Town Attorney Wendy Wood, CMC, Town Clerk
Page 1 of 2
Amendment 1 to Agreement of Consultant Services with Sequoia Environmental Consulting
AMENDMENT TO AGREEMENT
This AMENDMENT TO AGREEMENT is dated for identification this 15th day of October,
2024 and amends that certain Agreement for Consultant Services dated August 6, 2024, made by
and between the Town of Los Gatos, ("Town,") and Sequoia Consulting Group (“Consultant”),
identified as an S Corporation and whose address is 1342 Creekside Drive, Walnut Creek, CA
94596
RECITALS
A.Town and Consultant entered into an Agreement for Consultant Services on August 6,
2024, (“Agreement”), a copy of which is attached hereto and incorporated by reference
as Exhibit B to this Amendment.
B.Town desires to amend the Agreement to provide additional environmental consulting
services that are required to comply with state and federal environmental laws.
AMENDMENT
1.Section 2.1 Scope of Services is amended to add the services in Exhibit A of this
amendment.
2.Section 2.6 Compensation: Compensation for services is amended to increase by $1,000
to correct a discrepancy in the original agreement* and to add $49,190 for a total amount
not to exceed $231,355, inclusive of all costs. Payment shall be based upon Town
approval of each task and fees for each task shall not be exceeded without written
authorization from the Town.
3.All other terms and conditions of the Agreement remain in full force and effect.
*The original agreement was executed for a base price of $181,165. The Proposal Price Sheet
submitted by Consultant (See page 70 or 96 of the original agreement) included six lines items
with a total value of $182,165. This amendment adjusts the original agreement base price to
coincide with the bid proposal submitted by Sequoia.
Docusign Envelope ID: C3C88704-33B6-485B-9D22-15DBA66398A5
EXHIBIT B
Page 2 of 2
Amendment 1 to Agreement of Consultant Services with Sequoia Environmental Consulting
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Town and Consultant have executed this Amendment.
Town of Los Gatos: Approved as to Consent:
_______________________________ ______________________________
Katy Nomura, Interim Town Manager Will Johnson, Program Manager
Department Approval:
_______________________________________
Nicolle Burnham
Director of Parks and Public Works
Approved as to Form: Attest:
s Gatos, California
______________________________ ______________________________
Gabrielle Whelan, Town Attorney Wendy Wood, CMC, Town Clerk
Docusign Envelope ID: C3C88704-33B6-485B-9D22-15DBA66398A5
10/21/2024
10/22/2024
10/24/2024
10/24/2024
1342 Creekside Drive Walnut Creek, CA 94596 925.855.5500 www.sequoiaeco.com
Date:
To:
From:
RE:
September 17, 2024
Nicolle Burnham
Director
Town of Los Gatos – Parks and Public Works
41 Miles Avenue
Los Gatos, CA 95030
Will Johnson, M.S.
Climate Resiliency & Restoration Program Manager
Sequoia Ecological Consulting, Inc.
Town of Los Gatos Vegetation Management Plan Project Specific Analysis (PSA)
Additional Scope – September 2024
Scope of Work
Task 1: Perform Additional Project Coordination
Sequoia will provide additional hours of project management time to successfully submit the Town of
Los Gatos (Town) Vegetation Management Plan (VMP) PSA, implement and coordinate necessary survey
efforts, and generally guide the process beyond those efforts originally outlined in the base scope of
work.
Assumptions:
Budget assumes 10 additional meetings than what is covered in the base scope. Weekly
meetings will be one (1) hour and virtual. Both the Program Manager and Project Manager will
attend the meetings.
Task 2: Prepare Notice of Determination & Assist in Submitting Project PSA
Sequoia will review all previously created PSA materials for completeness and compliance, and then
assist the Town in packaging and submitting them to the Board of Forestry and CAL FIRE. Sequoia will
prepare a Notice of Determination (NOD) in accordance with Section 15094 of the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines. The Town will need to file the NOD with the County Clerk.
Sequoia will attend a site visit of the project sites with California Department of Fish and Wildlife
(CDFW), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), and the Town if requested. Costs have been included
for this one (1) field meeting for the Program Manager and Project Manager (if a field meeting is
necessary).
EXHIBIT A
Docusign Envelope ID: C3C88704-33B6-485B-9D22-15DBA66398A5
Sequoia Ecological Consulting, Inc.
Proposal
Town of Los Gatos Vegetation Management Plan PSA
September 17, 2024
Page
2 of 6
Deliverables:
Assist in delivering the Project Specific Analysis (PSA) for the Town of Los Gatos VMP to
the Board of Forestry and CAL FIRE.
Notice of Determination in PDF format.
Assumptions:
The Town will provide all relevant materials associated with the PSA, including GIS
shapefiles, drafts, forms and other materials that were generated by the previous
environmental consulting firm for the PSA effort.
We assume materials have been proof-checked and that agencies have been previously
consulted on the content and elements. We do not assume any level of effort for edits,
revisions or changes to the PSA. Additional efforts to make edits or revisions will be scoped
separately.
The Town will provide applicable NOD filing fees via a reimbursable expense on
Sequoia’s invoice.
Task 3: Perform Rare Plant Surveys per California Vegetation Treatment Program (CalVTP) Specific
Project Requirement (SPR) BIO-7
Sequoia will review findings from the PSA reconnaissance surveys previously conducted (2023) to
effectively eliminate unsuitable habitat for species and plants that will not require further analysis. This
could lead to a potentially smaller survey area and effort for rare plant surveys. This could also identify
areas that the Town’s contractor can effectively begin work in during the fall/winter 2024 season, after
pre-treatment surveys have been completed. Otherwise, in suitable habitat areas, per the CalVTP,
Sequoia understand bloom-period appropriate rare plant surveys for rare species anticipated to occur
must occur prior to treatment efforts.
Per the CalVTP, Sequoia understands that if target special-status species is an herbaceous annual,
stump-sprouting, or geophyte species, the treatment may be carried out during the dormant season for
that species, or when the species has completed its annual lifecycle without conducting
presence/absence surveys provided the treatment will not alter habitat or destroy seeds, stumps, or
roots, rhizomes, bulbs and other underground parts in a way that would make it unsuitable for the
target species to reestablish following treatment. Therefore, it may be possible to reduce survey efforts
pending evaluation of species occurrence, phenology, and PSA treatment methods
(excavation/disturbance vs. light-on-land approach).
Docusign Envelope ID: C3C88704-33B6-485B-9D22-15DBA66398A5
Sequoia Ecological Consulting, Inc.
Proposal
Town of Los Gatos Vegetation Management Plan PSA
September 17, 2024
Page
3 of 6
A Sequoia botanist will perform a protocol-level survey following California Department of Fish and
Wildlife (CDFW) Protocols for Surveying and Evaluating Impacts to Special Status Native Plant
Populations and Sensitive Natural Communities” (current version dated March 20, 2018) of the
treatment area for sensitive natural communities and sensitive habitats. Sensitive natural communities
will be identified using the best means possible, including keying them out using the most current
edition of A Manual of California Vegetation (including updated natural communities data at
http://vegetation.cnps.org/), or referring to relevant reports (e.g., reports found on the VegCAMP
website). Surveys will be conducted in a manner which maximizes the likelihood of locating special
status plants and sensitive natural communities. They will be floristic in nature meaning that every plant
taxon that occurs is identified to the taxonomic level necessary to determine rarity and listing status.
The extent of the survey may include adjacent or adjoining properties where project effects could occur
– it is important to not restrict surveys to known locations of special status plants. Surveys will consist
of walking through both the survey areas and as much of the treatment areas as possible.
Parallel survey transects may be necessary to ensure thorough survey coverage in some habitats.
Sequoia will identify plants in the field. If any special status plants or sensitive natural communities are
found during these surveys, Sequoia will flag and map them using a combination of methods including
ArcGIS Field Maps, CalFlora Weed Observer, and/or another GPS mapping software (e.g., Avenza).
Sequoia will take detailed notes and record all information as required by CDFW protocols (e.g., location
description, site-specific characteristics, number of individuals, percentage of each special status plant
and associated life stage characteristics, density of special status plants and digital images of special
status plants and sensitive natural communities).
The botanist will map and digitally record, using a Global Positioning System (GPS), the limits of any
potential sensitive habitat and sensitive natural community identified in the treatment area.
Deliverables:
Sequoia will summarize results from the completed surveys. A separate report will not be
generated. The team will follow CDFW protocols and will submit all required documentation to
the CDFW as required.
Assumptions:
The Town will provide Sequoia with geodata of Project and survey areas as GIS Shapefile or
Google Earth .kmz file, including the following layers: treatment area boundaries with roads and
trails, treatment area habitat types, and any other relevant GIS products associated with the
development of the PSA in general.
Docusign Envelope ID: C3C88704-33B6-485B-9D22-15DBA66398A5
Sequoia Ecological Consulting, Inc.
Proposal
Town of Los Gatos Vegetation Management Plan PSA
September 17, 2024
Page
4 of 6
Task 4: Perform Pre-field Research and Archaeological Surveys per SPR CUL-1 through SPR CUL-5 &
SPR CUL-8
Sequoia’s cultural resource sub-consultant Montrose will perform CalVTP Programmatic EIR Standard
Project Requirements (SPRs) CUL-1 through CUL-5 and SPR CUL-8 including: records search, pre-field
research, an archaeological survey, coordination with Native American groups (already included under
base scope; this cost omitted from this additional work proposal), worker training to recognize sensitive
cultural resources (if necessary, already included in base scope), and avoiding or protecting known
resources.
Montrose will conduct pre-field research and conduct a site-specific survey of the treatment area. The
purpose of pre-field research is to inform survey design, based on the types of resources likely to be
encountered within the treatment area, and to be prepared to interpret, record and evaluate these
findings within the context of local history and prehistory. Pre-field research includes reviewing records,
studying maps, reading pertinent ethnographic, archaeological and historical literature specific to the
area. The survey methodology (e.g., pedestrian survey, subsurface investigation) depends on whether
the area has a low, moderate, or high sensitivity for resources, which is based on whether the records
search, pre-field research, and/or Native American consultation identifies archaeological or historical
resources near or within the treatment area. A survey report will be completed for every cultural
resource survey completed.
A record search at the Northwest Information Center, Sonoma State University, will be requested that
includes the treatment areas and a quarter-mile buffer. Montrose will submit a Sacred Lands Request to
the Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC) for a list of local tribes and, upon receipt, draft a
contact letter for Sequoia and the Town for review. The final letter will be sent to each contact
requesting information on Tribal Cultural Resources, if any, that may be impacted by project actions.
Montrose will send the letters via the U.S. mail with a certified return receipt, and also email the letter
to each tribal contact. Follow-up emails will be sent approximately two weeks later.
In accordance with SPR CUL-4 (Archaeological Surveys) of the CalVTP EIR, Montrose archaeological staff
will conduct archaeological surveys of proposed treatment areas. The current fuel reduction treatments
cover approximately 194 acres. The record search and Native American consultation process will help to
determine which areas have a low, moderate, or high sensitivity for resources and dictate the
appropriate survey methodology (e.g., more intensive survey or more cursory inspection). Slope
percentage and distance to water sources will be used to adjust field efforts, depending on a modeled
probability of encountering archaeological deposits. Field staff will use GPS devices and ESRI Field Maps
to accurately record any cultural resources encountered. Location maps and sketch maps associated
with the forms will utilize ArcGIS Pro software and Adobe Illustrator, as needed. A Cultural Resources
Assessment Report will be prepared to report the methods and findings of the study.
Docusign Envelope ID: C3C88704-33B6-485B-9D22-15DBA66398A5
Sequoia Ecological Consulting, Inc.
Proposal
Town of Los Gatos Vegetation Management Plan PSA
September 17, 2024
Page
5 of 6
Deliverables:
Report(s) summarizing results from archaeological survey.
Draft and final tribal contact letters (electronic only).
Assumptions:
The Town will provide all relevant materials associated with the PSA, including GIS
shapefiles, drafts, forms and other materials that were generated by the previous
environmental consulting firm for the PSA effort.
Montrose will respond to one round of comments on the draft letter from the Town.
Up to one virtual meeting with any Tribe requesting consultation on Tribal Cultural
Resources.
No more than 4 pre-contact or post-contact archaeological sites will be identified and
recorded using California Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) Primary Record standards.
Two days in the field is expected for two archaeologists.
Montrose will respond to one round of comments on the draft Cultural Resources
Assessment Report from Sequoia and one from the Town.
No isolated object will be recorded. Refuse scatters will be recorded if they contain
more than 6 cans or bottles within a 100-meter square area.
No built environment element will be recorded; all such resources are assumed to be
avoided by project actions.
No cultural resources will be evaluated for significance under the California Register of
Historical Resources (CRHR)1 criteria as part of this scope of work. It is assumed all identified
archaeological resources and built environment features or structures will be avoided by project
actions. Any potentially eligible historical resource that cannot be avoided will require additional
scope and costs to evaluate under CRHR criteria.
Cost
Sequoia anticipates providing services as not-to-exceed total amounts, on a time-and-materials basis
using established rates. The estimated costs for the scope of work outlined above are as follows:
Docusign Envelope ID: C3C88704-33B6-485B-9D22-15DBA66398A5
Sequoia Ecological Consulting, Inc.
Proposal
Town of Los Gatos Vegetation Management Plan PSA
September 17, 2024
Page
6 of 6
Task Cost
Task 1. Additional Project Coordination $ 4,195
Task 2. Prepare Notice of Determination & Assist in Submitting PSA $ 4,846
Task 3. Rare Plant Surveys per SPR BIO-7 $ 9,087
Task 4. Perform Pre-field Research and Archaeological Surveys per SPR CUL-1
through SPR CUL-5 & SPR CUL-8 $ 31,062
TOTAL $ 49,190
Sincerely,
Will Johnson | Climate Resiliency & Restoration Program Manager
Mobile: (707) 889-3678
Main: 925.855.5500
wjohnson@sequoiaeco.com
Docusign Envelope ID: C3C88704-33B6-485B-9D22-15DBA66398A5
2024-2028
HOURLY RATE SCHEDULE
Environmental Services 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 Env. Project Mgm’t.2024 2025 2026 2027 2028
Field Technician 1 $90 $95 $99 $104 $109 Assistant Project Manager 1 $165 $173 $182 $191 $201
Field Technician 2 $105 $110 $116 $122 $128 Assistant Project Manager 2 $170 $179 $187 $197 $207
Field Technician 3 $115 $121 $127 $133 $140 Assistant Project Manager 3 $175 $184 $193 $203 $213
Staff Biologist 1 $120 $126 $132 $139 $146 Project Manager 1 $180 $189 $198 $208 $219
Staff Biologist 2 $125 $131 $138 $145 $152 Project Manager 2 $185 $194 $204 $214 $225
Staff Biologist 3 $130 $137 $143 $150 $158 Project Manager 3 $190 $200 $209 $220 $231
Associate Biologist 1 $135 $142 $149 $156 $164 Project Manager 4 $200 $210 $221 $232 $243
Associate Biologist 2 $140 $147 $154 $162 $170 Project Manager 5 $210 $221 $232 $243 $255
Associate Biologist 3 $145 $152 $160 $168 $176 Project Manager 6 $220 $231 $243 $255 $267
Project Biologist 1 $150 $158 $165 $174 $182 Senior Project Manager 1 $230 $242 $254 $266 $280
Project Biologist 2 $155 $163 $171 $179 $188 Senior Project Manager 2 $240 $252 $265 $278 $292
Project Biologist 3 $160 $168 $176 $185 $194 Senior Project Manager 3 $250 $263 $276 $289 $304
Resource Specialist 1 $165 $173 $182 $191 $201 Program Manager 1 $260 $273 $287 $301 $316
Resource Specialist 2 $170 $179 $187 $197 $207 Program Manager 2 $270 $284 $298 $313 $328
Resource Specialist 3 $175 $184 $193 $203 $213 Program Manager 3 $280 $294 $309 $324 $340
Senior (Sr.) Biologist 1 $180 $189 $198 $208 $219 Principal 1 $290 $305 $320 $336 $352
Sr. Biologist 2 $185 $194 $204 $214 $225 Principal 2 $300 $315 $331 $347 $365
Sr. Biologist 3 $190 $200 $209 $220 $231 Principal 3 $310 $326 $342 $359 $377
Sr. Scientist 1 $200 $210 $221 $232 $243 Senior Principal 1 $320 $336 $353 $370 $389
Sr. Scientist 2 $210 $221 $232 $243 $255 Senior Principal 2 $330 $347 $364 $382 $401
Sr. Scientist 3 $220 $231 $243 $255 $267 Senior Principal 3 $340 $357 $375 $394 $413
Sr. Technical Specialist 1 $230 $242 $254 $266 $280 Geographic Information Services (GIS)
Sr. Technical Specialist 2 $240 $252 $265 $278 $292 GIS Technician 1 $135 $142 $149 $156 $164
Sr. Technical Specialist 3 $250 $263 $276 $289 $304 GIS Technician 2 $145 $152 $160 $168 $176
Sr. Regulatory Specialist 1 $260 $273 $287 $301 $316 GIS Technician 3 $155 $163 $171 $179 $188
Sr. Regulatory Specialist 2 $270 $284 $298 $313 $328 GIS Analyst 1 $165 $173 $182 $191 $201
Sr. Regulatory Specialist 3 $280 $294 $309 $324 $340 GIS Analyst 2 $175 $184 $193 $203 $213
Botanist/Arborist Services GIS Analyst 3 $185 $194 $204 $214 $225
Botanist/Arborist 1 $135 $135 $142 $149 $156 GIS Project Manager 1 $200 $210 $221 $232 $243
Botanist/Arborist 2 $150 $150 $158 $165 $174 GIS Project Manager 2 $210 $221 $232 $243 $255
Botanist/Arborist 3 $165 $165 $173 $182 $191 GIS Project Manager 3 $220 $231 $243 $255 $267
Sr. Botanist/Arborist 1 $185 $185 $194 $204 $214 GIS Specialist 1 $230 $242 $254 $266 $280
Sr. Botanist/Arborist 2 $200 $200 $210 $221 $232 GIS Specialist 2 $240 $252 $265 $278 $292
Sr. Botanist/Arborist 3 $215 $215 $226 $237 $249 GIS Specialist 3 $250 $263 $276 $289 $304
Administrative Support Services GIS Program Manager 1 $260 $273 $287 $301 $316
Clerical $110 $116 $121 $127 $134 GIS Program Manager 2 $270 $284 $298 $313 $328
Project Administrator $135 $142 $149 $156 $164 GIS Program Manager 3 $280 $294 $309 $324 $340
Technical Editor I $150 $158 $165 $174 $182
Technical Editor II $160 $168 $176 $185 $194
Technical Editor III $170 $179 $187 $197 $207
Senior Technical Editor $195 $205 $215 $226 $237
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Sequoia Ecological Consulting, Inc.
Hourly Rate Schedule
Page
2of 2
Other Direct Costs
RegularVehicle(GSARate)$0.67/mile
Submeter GPS $100/day
UTV and Trailer $95/day
Fleet Vehicle $95/day
iPad $10/day
Wildlife Remote Camera $20/ day
Acoustic Bat Monitor $35/day
Kayak Kit $75/day
Survey Flashlight (Streamlight) $12.50/day
Aquatic Survey Sampling Kit $25/person/day
Drone/sUAS $250/day
Wetsuit $70/week
Drysuit $195/week
YSI ProDSS Water Quality
Meter $125/day
Expense Reimbursement/Other:
1.Computer,facsimile, andtelephoneareincludedin thebilling rates, and there is no additional charge.
2.Reproduction, equipment, and other direct expenses are reimbursedatcostplusa15% administrativehandlingcharge
(excludingmileage).
3.Subconsultants will be billed at their indicated rate plus a 15% administrative handling charge; or the Sequoia labor category
commensurate with their role.
4.Dependinguponlocation,PerDiem may becharged where overnight stays are required.
5.Weekly or monthly equipment rates at a reduced amount may be available on a contract-specific basis.
6.Expert Witness Testimony, including Depositions, is billed at the time and half.
7.Non-standard invoice processing will bebilled atstandard hourlyratesfor support personnel.
8.Sequoia will review our hourly rates annually and may choose to escalate ourratesheet dependingon changes to the
cost- of living- index and other factors.
9.Hoursbeyond 8 hoursper day are charged at an overtimerateof 1.5times our standardhourlyrates for qualifying personnel.
To comply with California Labor Code 512 and California Code of Regulations 11040, if on-site conditions prohibit personnel
from takingrequiredbreaks, one additionalhour oftimewillbe billed per day forqualifying staffcovered under theregulations.
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AGREEMENT FOR CONSULTANT SERVICES
PREAMBLE
THIS AGREEMENT is dated for identification on August 6, 2024 by and between TOWN OF LOS
GATOS, a California municipal corporation, (“Town”) and Sequoia Consulting Group
(“Consultant”), identified as an S Corporation and whose address is 1342 Creekside Drive, Walnut
Creek, CA 94596. This Agreement is made with reference to the following facts.
I.RECITALS
1.1 The Town desires to engage Consultant to provide environmental consulting services in
support of wildfire related vegetation management in Town owned open spaces.
1.2 The Consultant represents and affirms that it is willing to perform the desired work
pursuant to this Agreement.
1.3 Consultant warrants it possesses the distinct professional skills, qualifications,
experience, and resources necessary to timely perform the services described in this
Agreement. Consultant acknowledges Town has relied upon these warranties to retain
Consultant.
II.AGREEMENT
2.1 Scope of Services. Consultant shall provide services as described in that certain Proposal
sent to the Town on June 27, 2024 which is hereby incorporated as Exhibit A.
2.2 Term and Time of Performance. This contract will remain in effect upon execution to
June 30, 2025.
2.3 Compliance with Laws. The Consultant shall comply with all applicable laws, codes,
ordinances, and regulations of governing federal, state and local laws. Consultant
represents and warrants to Town that it has all licenses, permits, qualifications and
approvals of whatsoever nature which are legally required for Consultant to perform the
services under this Agreement. Consultant shall maintain a Town of Los Gatos business
license pursuant to Chapter 14 of the Code of the Town of Los Gatos.
2.4 Sole Responsibility. Consultant shall be responsible for employing or engaging all persons
necessary to perform the services under this Agreement.
2.5 Information/Report Handling. All documents furnished to Consultant by the Town and all
reports and supportive data prepared by the Consultant under this Agreement are the
Town’s property and shall be delivered to the Town upon the completion of services or
at the Town's written request. All reports, information, data, and exhibits prepared or
EXHIBIT B
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assembled by Consultant in connection with the performance of its services pursuant to
this Agreement are confidential until released by the Town to the public, and the
Consultant shall not make any of these documents or information available to any
individual or organization not employed by the Consultant or the Town without the
written consent of the Town before such release. The Town acknowledges that the
reports to be prepared by the Consultant pursuant to this Agreement are for the purpose
of evaluating a defined project, and Town's use of the information contained in the
reports prepared by the Consultant in connection with other projects shall be solely at
Town's risk, unless Consultant expressly consents to such use in writing. Town further
agrees that it will not appropriate any methodology or technique of Consultant which is
and has been confirmed in writing by Consultant to be a trade secret of Consultant.
2.6 Compensation: Compensation for services in the amount not to exceed $181,165,
inclusive of all costs. Payment shall be based upon Town approval of each task and fees
for each task shall not be exceeded without written authorization from the Town.
2.7 Billing. Billing shall be monthly by invoice within thirty (30) days of the rendering of the
service and shall be accompanied by a detailed explanation of the work performed by
whom at what rate and on what date. Also, plans, specifications, documents or other
pertinent materials shall be submitted for Town review, even if only in partial or draft
form.
Payment shall be net thirty (30) days of receipt of the invoice. All invoices and statements
to the Town shall be addressed as follows:
Invoices:
Town of Los Gatos
Attn: Accounts Payable
P.O. Box 655
Los Gatos, CA 95031-0655
Email (preferred): AP@losgatosca.gov
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2.8 Availability of Records. Consultant shall maintain the records supporting this billing for
not less than three years following completion of the work under this Agreement.
Consultant shall make these records available to authorized personnel of the Town at the
Consultant offices during business hours upon written request of the Town.
2.9 Assignability and Subcontracting. The services to be performed under this Agreement are
unique and personal to the Consultant. No portion of these services shall be assigned or
subcontracted without the written consent of the Town.
2.10 Independent Contractor. It is understood that the Consultant, including each of
Consultant’s employees, agents, subcontractors, or others under Consultant’s supervision
or control, in the performance of the work and services agreed to be performed, shall act
as and be an independent contractor and not an agent or employee of the Town. As an
independent contractor he/she shall not obtain any rights to retirement benefits or other
benefits which accrue to Town employee(s). With prior written consent, the Consultant
may perform some obligations under this Agreement by subcontracting, but may not
delegate ultimate responsibility for performance or assign or transfer interests under this
Agreement. Consultant agrees to testify in any litigation brought regarding the subject of
the work to be performed under this Agreement. Consultant shall be compensated for its
costs and expenses in preparing for, traveling to, and testifying in such matters at its then
current hourly rates of compensation, unless such litigation is brought by Consultant or is
based on allegations of Consultant's negligent performance or wrongdoing.
2.11 Conflict of Interest. Consultant understands that its professional responsibilities are solely
to the Town. The Consultant has and shall not obtain any holding or interest within the
Town of Los Gatos. Consultant has no business holdings or agreements with any individual
member of the Staff or management of the Town or its representatives nor shall it enter
into any such holdings or agreements. In addition, Consultant warrants that it does not
presently and shall not acquire any direct or indirect interest adverse to those of the Town
in the subject of this Agreement, and it shall immediately disassociate itself from such an
interest, should it discover it has done so and shall, at the Town's sole discretion, divest
itself of such interest. Consultant shall not knowingly and shall take reasonable steps to
ensure that it does not employ a person having such an interest in this performance of
this Agreement. If after employment of a person Consultant discovers it has employed a
person with a direct or indirect interest that would conflict with its performance of this
Agreement Consultant shall promptly notify Town of this employment relationship, and
shall, at the Town's sole discretion, sever any such employment relationship.
2.12 Intentionally omitted.
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III. INSURANCE AND INDEMNIFICATION
3.1 Minimum Scope of Insurance:
i. Consultant agrees to have and maintain, for the duration of the
Agreement, General Liability insurance policies insuring him/her and
his/her firm to an amount not less than: two million dollars ($2,000,000)
combined single limit per occurrence and in the aggregate for products and
completed operations, personal and advertising injury, bodily injury,
personal injury and property damage.
ii. Consultant agrees to have and maintain for the duration of the Agreement,
an Automobile Liability insurance policy ensuring him/her and his/her staff
for any, hired, or non-owned vehicles in an amount not less than one
million dollars ($1,000,000) combined single limit per accident for bodily
injury and property damage.
iii. Consultant shall provide to the Town all certificates of insurance, with
original endorsements affecting coverage. Consultant agrees that all
certificates and endorsements are to be received and approved by the
Town before work commences.
General Liability:
i. The Town, its elected and appointed officials, employees, and agents are
to be covered as additional insureds as respects: liability arising out of
activities performed by or on behalf of the Consultant; products and
completed operations of Consultant, premises owned or used by the
Consultant.
ii. The Consultant's insurance coverage shall be primary insurance as respects
the Town, its elected and appointed officials, employees, and agents. Any
insurance or self-insurances maintained by the Town, its officers, officials,
employees or volunteers shall be excess of the Consultant's insurance and
shall not contribute with it.
iii. Any failure to comply with reporting provisions of the policies shall not
affect coverage provided to the Town, its officers, officials, employees or
volunteers.
iv. The Consultant's insurance shall apply separately to each insured against
whom a claim is made or suit is brought, except with respect to the limits
of the insurer's liability.
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3.2 All Coverages. Each insurance policy required in this item shall be endorsed to state that
coverage shall not be suspended, voided, cancelled, reduced in coverage or in limits
except after thirty (30) days' prior written notice by certified mail, return receipt
requested, has been given to the Town. Current certification of such insurance shall be
kept on file at all times during the term of this agreement with the Town Clerk.
3.3 Workers’ Compensation. In addition to these policies, Consultant shall have and maintain
Workers' Compensation insurance as required by California law and shall provide
evidence of such policy to the Town before beginning services under this Agreement.
Further, Consultant shall ensure that all subcontractors employed by Consultant provide
the required Workers' Compensation insurance for their respective employees. As
required by the State of California, with Statutory Limits, and Employer’s Liability
Insurance with limit of no less than one million dollars ($1,000,000) per accident for bodily
injury or disease.
3.4 Indemnification. The Consultant shall save, keep, hold harmless and indemnify and
defend the Town its elected and appointed officials, officers, agents, employees, and
volunteers (“Indemnitees”) from all damages, liabilities, penalties, costs, attorneys’ fees,
or expenses (“Losses”) in law or equity that may at any time arise or be set up because of
damages to property or personal injury or other received by reason of, or in the course of
performing work which may be occasioned by a willful or negligent act or omissions of
the Consultant, or any of the Consultant's officers, employees, or agents or any
subcontractor. The Consultant’s duty to indemnify and hold harmless the Indemnitees
shall not apply to the extent such Losses are caused by the sole or active negligence or
willful misconduct of Indemnitees. Consultant’s obligation to defend shall arise regardless
of any claim or assertion that Indemnitees caused or contributed to the Losses.
IV. GENERAL TERMS
4.1 Waiver. No failure on the part of either party to exercise any right or remedy hereunder
shall operate as a waiver of any other right or remedy that party may have hereunder,
nor does waiver of a breach or default under this Agreement constitute a continuing
waiver of a subsequent breach of the same or any other provision of this Agreement.
4.2 Governing Law. This Agreement, regardless of where executed, shall be governed by and
construed to the laws of the State of California. Venue for any action regarding this
Agreement shall be in the Superior Court of the County of Santa Clara.
4.3 Termination of Agreement. The Town and the Consultant shall have the right to terminate
this agreement with or without cause by giving not less than sixty days (60) written notice
of termination. In the event of termination, the Consultant shall deliver to the Town all
plans, files, documents, reports, performed to date by the Consultant. In the event of such
termination, Town shall pay Consultant an amount that bears the same ratio to the
maximum Agreement price as the work delivered to the Town bears to completed
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services contemplated under this Agreement, unless such termination is made for cause,
in which event, compensation, if any, shall be adjusted in light of the particular facts and
circumstances involved in such termination.
4.4 Amendment. No modification, waiver, mutual termination, or amendment of this
Agreement is effective unless made in writing and signed by the Town and the Consultant.
4.5 Disputes. In any dispute over any aspect of this Agreement, the prevailing party shall
be entitled to reasonable attorney's fees, including costs of appeal.
4.6 Notices. Any notice required to be given shall be deemed to be duly and properly given
if mailed postage prepaid, and addressed to
Town of Los Gatos
Attn: Town Clerk
110 E. Main Street
Los Gatos, CA 95030
Sequoia Ecological Consulting Inc
Attn: Debie Montana
1342 Creekside Drive,
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
or personally delivered to Consultant to such address or such other address as Consultant
designates in writing to Town.
4.7 Order of Precedence. In the event of any conflict, contradiction, or ambiguity between
the terms and conditions of this Agreement in respect of the Products or Services and any
attachments to this Agreement, then the terms and conditions of this Agreement shall
prevail over attachments or other writings.
4.8 Entire Agreement. This Agreement, including all Exhibits, constitutes the complete and
exclusive statement of the Agreement between the Town and Consultant. No terms,
conditions, understandings or agreements purporting to modify or vary this Agreement,
unless hereafter made in writing and signed by the party to be bound, shall be binding on
either party.
4.9 California Public Records Act. Town is a public agency subject to the disclosure
requirements of the California Public Records Act (“CPRA”). If Consultant’s proprietary
information is contained in documents or information submitted to Town, and Consultant
claims that such information falls within one or more CPRA exemptions, Consultant must
clearly mark such information “Confidential and Proprietary,” and identify the specific
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lines containing the information. In the event of a request for such information, Town will
make best efforts to provide notice to Consultant prior to such disclosure. If Consultant
contends that any documents are exempt from the CPRA and wishes to prevent
disclosure, it is required to obtain a protective order, injunctive relief, or other
appropriate remedy from a court of law in Santa Clara County before the Town is required
to respond to the CPRA request. If Consultant fails to obtain such remedy within the time
the Town is required to respond to the CPRA request, Town may disclose the requested
information without any liability. Consultant further agrees that it shall defend, indemnify
and hold Town harmless against any claim, action or litigation (including but not limited
to all judgments, costs, and attorney’s fees) that may result from denial by Town of a
CPRA request for information arising from any representation, or any action (or inaction),
by the Consultant.
4.10 Force Majeure. Neither party hereto shall be considered in default in the performance of
its obligation hereunder to the extent that the performance of any such obligation is
prevented or delayed by an act of God, natural disaster, pandemic, acts of terrorism, war,
a strike, lockout or other labor difficulty, or other peril, which is beyond the reasonable
control of the affected party and without the negligence of the respective Parties. Each
party hereto shall give notice promptly to the other of the nature and extent of any Force
Majeure claimed to delay, hinder or prevent performance of the services under this
Agreement. Each Party will, however, make all reasonable efforts to remove or eliminate
such a cause of delay or default and will, upon the cessation of the cause, diligently pursue
performance of its obligations in this Agreement. In the event either party is prevented
or delayed in the performance of its respective obligation by reason of such Force
Majeure, the only remedy is that there may be an equitable adjustment of the schedule
based on Town’s sole discretion.
4.11. Severability. The unenforceability, invalidity or illegality of any provision(s) of this
Agreement shall not render the other provisions unenforceable, invalid or illegal.
4.12 Contract Interpretation. Each party acknowledges that it has reviewed this Agreement
and that the normal rule of construction to the effect that any ambiguities are to be
resolved against the drafting party shall not be employed in the interpretation of this
Agreement.
4.13 Counterparts. The Parties may execute this Agreement in two or more counterparts,
which shall, in the aggregate, be deemed an original but all of which, together, shall
constitute one and the same instrument. A scanned, electronic, facsimile or other copy of
a party’s signature shall be accepted and valid as an original.
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V. FEMA CONTRACT TERMS
5.1 Remedies. Refer to Section IV of this agreement.
5.2 Termination for Cause and Convenience. Refer to Section 4.3 of this agreement.
5.3 Equal Opportunity Employment. During the performance of this contract, the contractor
agrees as follows:
(1) The contractor will not discriminate against any employee or applicant for
employment because of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity,
or national origin. The contractor will take affirmative action to ensure that applicants
are employed, and that employees are treated during employment without regard to
their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin.
Such action shall include, but not be limited to the following:
Employment, upgrading, demotion, or transfer; recruitment or recruitment
advertising; layoff or termination; rates of pay or other forms of compensation; and
selection for training, including apprenticeship. The contractor agrees to post in
conspicuous places, available to employees and applicants for employment, notices
to be provided setting forth the provisions of this nondiscrimination clause.
(2) The contractor will, in all solicitations or advertisements for employees placed by or
on behalf of the contractor, state that all qualified applicants will receive
consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual
orientation, gender identity, or national origin.
(3) The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against any
employee or applicant for employment because such employee or applicant has
inquired about, discussed, or disclosed the compensation of the employee or
applicant or another employee or applicant. This provision shall not apply to instances
in which an employee who has access to the compensation information of other
employees or applicants as a part of such employee's essential job functions discloses
the compensation of such other employees or applicants to individuals who do not
otherwise have access to such information, unless such disclosure is in response to a
formal complaint or charge, in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing,
or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or is consistent with
the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information.
(4) The contractor will send to each labor union or representative of workers with which
he has a collective bargaining agreement or other contract or understanding, a notice
to be provided advising the said labor union or workers' representatives of the
contractor's commitments under this section, and shall post copies of the notice in
conspicuous places available to employees and applicants for employment.
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(5) The contractor will comply with all provisions of Executive Order 11246 of September
24, 1965, and of the rules, regulations, and relevant orders of the Secretary of Labor.
(6) The contractor will furnish all information and reports required by Executive Order
11246 of September 24, 1965, and by rules, regulations, and orders of the Secretary
of Labor, or pursuant thereto, and will permit access to his books, records, and
accounts by the administering agency and the Secretary of Labor for purposes of
investigation to ascertain compliance with such rules, regulations, and orders.
(7) In the event of the contractor's noncompliance with the nondiscrimination clauses
of this contract or with any of the said rules, regulations, or orders, this contract may
be canceled, terminated, or suspended in whole or in part and the contractor may
be declared ineligible for further Government contracts or federally assisted
construction contracts in accordance with procedures authorized in Executive Order
11246 of September 24, 1965, and such other sanctions may be imposed and
remedies invoked as provided in Executive Order 11246 of September 24, 1965, or
by rule, regulation, or order of the Secretary of Labor, or as otherwise provided by
law.
(8) The contractor will include the portion of the sentence immediately preceding
paragraph (1) and the provisions of paragraphs (1) through (8) in every subcontract
or purchase order unless exempted by rules, regulations, or orders of the Secretary
of Labor issued pursuant to section 204 of Executive Order 11246 of September 24,
1965, so that such provisions will be binding upon each subcontractor or vendor. The
contractor will take such action with respect to any subcontract or purchase order as
the administering agency may direct as a means of enforcing such provisions,
including sanctions for noncompliance:
Provided, however, that in the event a contractor becomes involved in, or is
threatened with, litigation with a subcontractor or vendor as a result of such direction
by the administering agency, the contractor may request the United States to enter
into such litigation to protect the interests of the United States.
The applicant further agrees that it will be bound by the above equal opportunity
clause with respect to its own employment practices when it participates in federally
assisted construction work: Provided, that if the applicant so participating is a state
or local government, the above equal opportunity clause is not applicable to any
agency, instrumentality or subdivision of such government which does not participate
in work on or under the contract.
The applicant agrees that it will assist and cooperate actively with the administering
agency and the Secretary of Labor in obtaining the compliance of contractors and
subcontractors with the equal opportunity clause and the rules, regulations, and
relevant orders of the Secretary of Labor, that it will furnish the administering agency
and the Secretary of Labor such information as they may require for the supervision
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of such compliance, and that it will otherwise assist the administering agency in the
discharge of the agency's primary responsibility for securing compliance.
The applicant further agrees that it will refrain from entering into any contract or
contract modification subject to Executive Order 11246 of September 24, 1965, with
a contractor debarred from, or who has not demonstrated eligibility for, Government
contracts and federally assisted construction contracts pursuant to the Executive
Order and will carry out such sanctions and penalties for violation of the equal
opportunity clause as may be imposed upon contractors and subcontractors by the
administering agency or the Secretary of Labor pursuant to Part II, Subpart D of the
Executive Order. In addition, the applicant agrees that if it fails or refuses to comply
with these undertakings, the administering agency may take any or all of the following
actions: Cancel, terminate, or suspend in whole or in part this grant (contract, loan,
insurance, guarantee); refrain from extending any further assistance to the applicant
under the program with respect to which the failure or refund occurred until
satisfactory assurance of future compliance has been received from such applicant;
and refer the case to the Department of Justice for appropriate legal proceedings
5.4 Intentionally omitted.
5.5 Copeland Anit-Kickback Act. Contractor. The contractor shall comply with 18 U.S.C. § 874,
40 U.S.C. § 3145, and the requirements of 29 C.F.R. pt. 3 as may be applicable, which are
incorporated by reference into this contract.
Subcontracts. The contractor or subcontractor shall insert in any subcontracts the clause
above and such other clauses as the federal agency may by appropriate instructions
require, and also a clause requiring the subcontractors to include these clauses in any
lower tier subcontracts. The prime contractor shall be responsible for the compliance by
any subcontractor or lower tier subcontractor with all of these contract clauses.
Breach. A breach of the contract clauses above may be grounds for termination of the
contract, and for debarment.
5.6 Intentionally omitted
5.7 Rights to Inventions Made Under a Contract or Agreement. Any inventions made related
to this Agreement and associated work is subject to the provisions of 37 CFR Part 401, as
applicable.
5.8 Clean Air Act and Federal Water Pollution Control Act.
Clean Air Act
The contractor agrees to comply with all applicable standards, orders or regulations
issued pursuant to the Clean Air Act, as amended, 42 U.S.C. § 7401 et seq.
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The contractor agrees to report each violation to the (insert name of non-federal entity
entering into the contract) and understands and agrees that the (insert name of the non-
federal entity entering into the contract) will, in turn, report each violation as required to
assure notification to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and the
appropriate Environmental Protection Agency Regional Office.
The contractor agrees to include these requirements in each subcontract exceeding
$150,000 financed in whole or in part with federal assistance provided by FEMA.
Federal Water Pollution Control Act
The contractor agrees to comply with all applicable standards, orders, or regulations
issued pursuant to the federal Water Pollution Control Act, as amended, 33 U.S.C. § 1251
et seq.
The contractor agrees to report each violation to the (insert name of the non-federal
entity entering into the contract) and understands and agrees that the (insert name of
the non- federal entity entering into the contract) will, in turn, report each violation as
required to assure notification to the (insert name of the pass-through entity, if
applicable), Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and the appropriate
Environmental Protection Agency Regional Office.
The contractor agrees to include these requirements in each subcontract exceeding
$150,000 financed in whole or in part with federal assistance provided by FEMA.”
5.9 Debarment and Suspension. This contract is a covered transaction for purposes of 2 C.F.R.
pt. 180 and 2 C.F.R. pt. 3000. As such the contractor is required to verify that none of the
contractor, its principals (defined at 2 C.F.R. § 180.995), or its affiliates (defined at 2 C.F.R.
§180.905) are excluded (defined at 2 C.F.R. §180.940) or disqualified (defined at 2 C.F.R.
§180.935).
The contractor must comply with 2 C.F.R. pt. 180, subpart C and 2 C.F.R. pt. 3000, subpart
C and must include a requirement to comply with these regulations in any lower tier
covered transaction it enters into.
This certification is a material representation of fact relied upon by the Town of Los Gatos.
If it is later determined that the contractor did not comply with 2 C.F.R. pt. 180, subpart
C and 2 C.F.R. pt. 3000, subpart C, in addition to remedies available to the Town of Los
Gatos the Federal Government may pursue available remedies, including but not limited
to suspension and/or debarment. The Town will insure the Contractor and any lower
participants are not debarred by checking the government’s System Award Management
(SAM).
The Bidder or proposer agrees to comply with the requirements of 2 C.F.R. pt. 180,
subpart C and 2 C.F.R. pt. 3000, subpart C while this offer is valid and throughout the
period of any contract that may arise from this offer. The Bidder or proposer further
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agrees to include a provision requiring such compliance in its lower tier covered
transactions.
5.10 Byrd Anti-Lobbying Amendment. Contractors who apply or bid for an award of more than
$100,000 shall file the required certification. Each tier certifies to the tier above that it
will not and has not used federally appropriated funds to pay any person or organization
for influencing or attempting to influence an officer or employee of any agency, a
Member of Congress, officer or employee of Congress, or an employee of a Member of
Congress in connection with obtaining any federal contract, grant, or any other award
covered by 31 U.S.C. § 1352. Each tier shall also disclose any lobbying with non-federal
funds that takes place in connection with obtaining any federal award. Such disclosures
are forwarded from tier to tier up to the recipient who in turn will forward the
certification(s) to the federal awarding agency
5.11 Procurement of Recovered Materials. In the performance of this contract, the Contractor
shall make maximum use of products containing recovered materials that are EPA-
designated items unless the product cannot be acquired:
(1)Competitively within a timeframe providing for compliance with the contract
performance schedule;
(2)Meeting contract performance requirements; or
(3)At a reasonable price.
Information about this requirement, along with the list of EPA-designated items, is
available at EPA’s Comprehensive Procurement Guidelines webpage:
https://www.epa.gov/smm/comprehensive- procurement-guideline-cpg-program.
The Contractor also agrees to comply with all other applicable requirements of Section
6002 of the Solid Waste Disposal Act
5.12 Prohibition on Contracting for Covered Telecommunications Equipment or Services.
(a)Definitions. As used in this clause, the terms backhaul; covered foreign country;
covered telecommunications equipment or services; interconnection
arrangements; roaming; substantial or essential component; and
telecommunications equipment or services have the meaning as defined in FEMA
Policy 405-143-1, Prohibitions on Expending FEMA Award Funds for Covered
Telecommunications Equipment or Services (Interim), as used in this clause.
(b)Prohibitions.
(1)Section 889(b) of the John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act for
Fiscal Year 2019, Pub. L. No. 115-232, and 2 C.F.R. § 200.216 prohibit the head
of an executive agency on or after Aug.13, 2020, from obligating or expending
grant, cooperative agreement, loan, or loan guarantee funds on certain
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telecommunications products or from certain entities for national security
reasons.
(2) Unless an exception in paragraph (c) of this clause applies, the contractor and
its subcontractors may not use grant, cooperative agreement, loan, or loan
guarantee funds from the Federal Emergency Management Agency to:
(i) Procure or obtain any equipment, system, or service that uses covered
telecommunications equipment or services as a substantial or essential
component of any system, or as critical technology of any system;
(ii) Enter into, extend, or renew a contract to procure or obtain any
equipment, system, or service that uses covered telecommunications
equipment or services as a substantial or essential component of any
system, or as critical technology of any system;
(iii) Enter into, extend, or renew contracts with entities that use covered
telecommunications equipment or services as a substantial or essential
component of any system, or as critical technology as part of any system;
or
(iv) Provide, as part of its performance of this contract, subcontract, or other
contractual instrument, any equipment, system, or service that uses
covered telecommunications equipment or services as a substantial or
essential component of any system, or as critical technology as part of any
system.
(c) Exceptions.
(1) This clause does not prohibit contractors from providing—
(i) A service that connects to the facilities of a third-party, such as backhaul,
roaming, or interconnection arrangements; or
(ii) Telecommunications equipment that cannot route or redirect user data
traffic or permit visibility into any user data or packets that such equipment
transmits or otherwise handles.
(2) By necessary implication and regulation, the prohibitions also do not apply to:
(i) Covered telecommunications equipment or services that:
i. Are not used as a substantial or essential component of any
system; and
ii. Are not used as critical technology of any system.
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(ii) Other telecommunications equipment or services that are not considered
covered telecommunications equipment or services.
(d) Reporting requirement.
(1) In the event the contractor identifies covered telecommunications equipment
or services used as a substantial or essential component of any system, or as
critical technology as part of any system, during contract performance, or the
contractor is notified of such by a subcontractor at any tier or by any other
source, the contractor shall report the information in paragraph (d)(2) of this
clause to the recipient or subrecipient, unless elsewhere in this contract are
established procedures for reporting the information.
(2) The Contractor shall report the following information pursuant to paragraph
(d)(1) of this clause:
(i) Within one business day from the date of such identification or notification:
The contract number; the order number(s), if applicable; supplier name;
supplier unique entity identifier (if known); supplier Commercial and
Government Entity (CAGE) code (if known); brand; model number (original
equipment manufacturer number, manufacturer part number, or
wholesaler number); item description; and any readily available
information about mitigation actions undertaken or recommended.
(ii) Within 10 business days of submitting the information in paragraph (d)(2)(i)
of this clause: Any further available information about mitigation actions
undertaken or recommended. In addition, the contractor shall describe the
efforts it undertook to prevent use or submission of covered
telecommunications equipment or services, and any additional efforts that
will be incorporated to prevent future use or submission of covered
telecommunications equipment or services.
(e) Subcontracts. The Contractor shall insert the substance of this clause, including
this paragraph (e), in all subcontracts and other contractual instruments,
5.13 Domestic Preferences for Procurements. As appropriate, and to the extent consistent
with law, the contractor should, to the greatest extent practicable, provide a preference
for the purchase, acquisition, or use of goods, products, or materials produced in the
United States. This includes, but is not limited to iron, aluminum, steel, cement, and other
manufactured products.
For purposes of this clause:
Produced in the United States means, for iron and steel products, that all manufacturing
processes, from the initial melting stage through the application of coatings, occurred in
the United States.
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Manufactured products mean items and construction materials composed in whole or in
part of non-ferrous metals such as aluminum; plastics and polymer-based products such
as polyvinyl chloride pipe; aggregates such as concrete; glass, including optical fiber; and
lumber.
5.14 Access to Records. The Contractor agrees to provide the Town, the FEMA Administrator,
the Comptroller General of the United States, or any of their authorized representatives
access to any books, documents, papers, and records of the Contractor which are directly
pertinent to this contract for the purposes of making audits, examinations, excerpts, and
transcriptions.
The Contractor agrees to permit any of the foregoing parties to reproduce by any means
whatsoever or to copy excerpts and transcriptions as reasonably needed.
The Contractor agrees to provide the FEMA Administrator or his authorized
representatives access to construction or other work sites pertaining to the work being
completed under the contract.
In addition to the reports specified in this Agreement, Contractor shall retain the records
required by the applicable provisions of 2 CFR § 200.333, no less than three (3) years after
Town’s final payment to Consultant under this Agreement and provide the Town with the
reports required pursuant to 2 CFR §§ 200.328 and 200.343, and such other records and
reports as the Town may reasonably require in the administration of this Agreement.
Contractor shall keep all other necessary books and records, including property,
personnel, loan documentation and financial records, in connection with the operation
and services performed under this Agreement, in accordance with 2 CFR §200.333.
5.15 Changes in Scope of Work or Work Schedule.
(a) Any change in the scope of work to be done, method of performance, nature of
materials or price thereof, work schedule changing the number of working days, or to
any other matter materially affecting the performance or nature of the services will not
be paid for or accepted unless such change, addition or deletion is approved in advance
by the Town, in a written amendment or Contract Change Order.
(b) The changes will be set forth in an amendment or written Contract Change Orders
which specify the work to be done in connection with the changes, the basis of
compensation for the work, and any adjustments to the work schedule or work
completion date. Such Change Orders shall be approved by the Town. Upon receipt of an
approved Contract Change Order, or of a written authorization from the Town setting
forth a description of the change and agreed upon changes in contract price, the
Contractor shall proceed with the work so ordered.
(c) In the absence of an approved amendment or Contract Change Order or written
authorization, the Contractor shall not be entitled to payment for any changed or extra
work or any adjustment to the work schedule or work completion date.
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(d) When the changes increase or decrease the cost of the work, an adjustment of
the Contract price will be made as set forth in the Change Order. Contractor shall receive
compensation at the fees and rates previously agreed upon in writing.
(e) Contractor shall not be entitled to an adjustment in the compensation or work
schedule for delay, disruption, or interference caused by or within the control of
Contractor. Delay, disruption, and interference attributable to and within the control of a
subcontractor or supplier shall be deemed to be within the control of contractor.
5.16 DHS Logo, Seal and Flags. The contractor shall not use the DHS seal(s), logos, crests, or
reproductions of flags or likenesses of DHS agency officials without specific FEMA pre-
approval. The contractor shall include this provision in any subcontracts.
5.17 Compliance with Federal Law, Regulations, and Executive Orders and Acknowledgement
of Federal Funding. This is an acknowledgement that FEMA financial assistance will be
used to fund all or a portion of the contract. The contractor will comply with all applicable
federal law, regulations, executive orders, FEMA policies, procedures, and directives.
5.18 No Obligation by Federal Government. The Federal Government is not a party to this
contract and is not subject to any obligations or liabilities to the non-Federal entity,
Consultant, or any other party pertaining to any matter resulting from the contract.
5.19 Program Fraud and False or Fraudulent Statements of Related Acts. The contractor
acknowledges that 31 U.S.C. Chap. 38 (Administrative Remedies for False Claims and
Statements) applies to the contractor’s actions pertaining to this contract.
5.20 Affirmative Socioeconomic Steps. If subcontracts are to be let, the prime contractor is
required to take all necessary steps identified in 2 C.F.R. § 200.321(b)(1)-(5) to ensure that
small and minority businesses, women’s business enterprises, and labor surplus area
firms are used when possible.
5.21 License and Delivery of Works Subject to Copyright and Data Rights. The Contractor
grants to the Town, a paid-up, royalty-free, nonexclusive, irrevocable, worldwide license
in data first produced in the performance of this contract to reproduce, publish, or
otherwise use, including prepare derivative works, distribute copies to the public, and
perform publicly and display publicly such data. For data required by the contract but not
first produced in the performance of this contract, the Contractor will identify such data
and grant to the Town or acquires on its behalf a license of the same scope as for data
first produced in the performance of this contract. Data, as used herein, shall include any
work subject to copyright under 17 U.S.C. § 102, for example, any written reports or
literary works, software and/or source code, music, choreography, pictures or images,
graphics, sculptures, videos, motion pictures or other audiovisual works, sound and/or
video recordings, and architectural works. Upon or before the completion of this contract,
the Contractor will deliver to the Town data first produced in the performance of this
contract and data required by the contract but not first produced in the performance of
this contract in formats acceptable by the Town of Los Gatos.
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8/19/2024
8/16/2024 8/15/2024
Recommended by:
8/15/2024
8/16/2024
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Town and Consultant have executed this Agreement.
Town of Los Gatos by: Consultant by:
Laurel Prevetti, Town Manager Debie Montana, Chief Executive Officer
Nicolle Burnham
Director of Parks and Public Works
Approved as to Form:
Gabrielle Whelan, Town Attorney
Attest:
Wendy Wood, CMC, Town Clerk
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June 27, 2024proposal
TOWN OF LOS GATOS DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND PUBLIC WORKSProfessional Environmental Monitoring Services for Vegetation Management Risk Reduction Project (Open Space)
EXHIBIT A
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Sequoia biologist facilitating fire crew training as part of the Tunnel East Bay Hills Shaded Fuel Break Project
A crew chips felled trees while a biological monitor provides assistance from a safe distance away during the North Orinda Shaded Fuel Break project.
"The team at Sequoia was critical to effective hazardous fuel reduction for the North Orinda Shaded Fuel Break. By having their
biologists evaluate sites before work began we could avoid potential environmental impacts and accelerate the project. Their
staff’s expertise continued to guide field crews throughout the work, giving the whole project team confidence that we could
adjust the project to meet the best management practices and comply with the myriad of environmental requirements, while
reducing the potential of wildfire."
Cheryl Miller, Executive Coordinator
Diablo FireSafe Council
A contractor clears vegetation in a portion of Claremont Canyon Regional Park which has been identified both as high-risk for wildfire, and highly sensitive habitat for Alameda whipsnake.
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Cover Letter
99 South Almaden Boulevard, Suite 600 San Jose, CA 95113 925.855.5500 www.sequoiaeco.com
June 27, 2024
Town of Los Gatos
Department of Parks and Public Works
41 Miles Avenue
Los Gatos, CA 95030
RE: Proposal for the Town of Los Gatos Department of Parks and Public Works
Professional Environmental Monitoring Services for Vegetation Management Risk Reduction
Project (Open Space), Town Project 832-4508; Federal Project #4407-PJ0506
Members of the Selection Committee,
The Town of Los Gatos carries a profound responsibility in safeguarding its residents and preserving its
cherished parks and open spaces, which face escalating threats from wildfires. The Town’s natural
landscapes not only serve as vital recreational areas, but also harbor diverse ecosystems and protected
natural resources. To proactively mitigate these risks, the Los Gatos Open Space Vegetation Management
Plan (VMP) defines the approach and guidelines that the Town will use for fuel reduction work, in
accordance with the California Vegetation Treatment Program (CalVTP) Project Specific Analysis (PSA) and
Addendum to the Program Environmental Impact Report (PEIR). The PEIR identifies standard treatment
activities and associated environmental protection measures in and around Wildland Urban Interface (WUI)
areas in general, while the VMP specifically prioritizes fuel treatments throughout Town parks to enhance
public safety. We understand that the Town has carefully weighed the benefits of removing fuels versus the
effects of a potentially destructive wildfire, as well as the environmental impacts of initial clearing work and
follow-up maintenance. With treatments planned across five open space areas, we understand that the
Town seeks an environmental consultant who can provide support and expert planning to facilitate timely
completion of the VMP implementation efforts, in compliance with the PEIR.
With more than a decade of experience supporting wildfire mitigation efforts, Sequoia Ecological
Consulting, Inc. (Sequoia) has worked extensively with agencies throughout the Bay Area to expedite
implementation of their fuel management programs. We have teamed with our frequent partner Montrose
Environmental Group (Montrose) to provide cultural resources services as needed. Sequoia and Montrose
having collaborated with similar roles on wildland fuel management efforts for clients including San Mateo
County RCD, East Bay Municipal Utility District, Sonoma County Parks, the State of California Department of
General Services, Contra Costa County Fire Protection District, and the Moraga-Orinda Fire District, among
many other public agency clients.
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Sequoia Ecological Consulting, Inc.
Proposal for Town of Los Gatos - Environmental Monitoring Services for
Vegetation Management Risk Reduction Project (Open Space)
2
We are uniquely qualified to support the Town in meetings its VMP goals and long-term objectives because:
Sequoia has worked extensively under the CalVTP, leading planning and PSA development
activities (5 approved PSAs in the last 3 years), as well as implementation of projects throughout
the Bay Area.
Our staff are experts and permit-holders for the project’s focal species, including western bumble
bee, foothill yellow-legged frog, California red-legged frog, and California tiger salamander.
With a staff of more than 50 biologists, we provide a deep bench of environmental monitors who
can meet any scheduling need or concurrent efforts. All of these staff have supported Sequoia’s
fuels management projects, and have a deep level of understanding of the unique requirements
and hazards associated with the full range of prescribed treatments. We have a number of staff
who live within 5 miles of the project area.
As our references will attest, Sequoia helps our clients expedite fuel reduction projects while
avoiding costly permitting requirements and project delays. The value we provide allows agencies
to redirect their time and resources to other high-priority areas.
Sequoia offers a menu of optional services that can be scaled and deployed as requested to meet
the Town’s specific needs.
Sequoia has prioritized our fuel management work support above all other work on our client list because
we understand the urgent need to mitigate our region’s vulnerabilities when it comes to wildfire. This
region is our home, and we appreciate the opportunity to play a role in reducing the threat of wildfire here,
while also enhancing the habitats of the diverse species that share these lands with us. Sequoia has never
failed to fulfill a request, even urgent same-day requests, to support the fuel reduction programs we
support. C
We have carefully reviewed the Town’s RFP and our team will meet all requirements, terms, and conditions
described therein. Thank you for this opportunity to present our team's approach and qualifications. As
Principal at Sequoia Ecological Consulting, Inc., I am authorized to sign and negotiate on behalf of our firm.
Please contact me directly at (925) 989-7011 or via e-mail at dmontana@sequoiaeco.com should you have
any questions or requests for clarification on this proposal.
Sincerely,
SEQUOIA ECOLOGICAL CONSULTING, INC.
Debie Montana Bill Montana
Chief Executive Officer and Principal Biologist Chief Financial Officer
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Sequoia Ecological Consulting, Inc.
Proposal for Town of Los Gatos - Environmental Monitoring Services for
Vegetation Management Risk Reduction Project (Open Space)
3
Scope of Services
Project Understanding
The Town is proactively protecting open space, the public, and sensitive natural resources by developing
management plans to mitigate wildfire risk. The planning effort centers around targeted fuel reduction in
densely vegetated areas, with aims to enhance both firefighter access and public evacuation routes. Plans
are guided by CAL FIRE measures and Town ordinances and encompass nearly 5,000 acres of open space
and parkland. The overall purpose is to minimize both wildfire risk and negative environmental impacts.
The VMP defines the approach and guidelines that the Town will use for fuel reduction work. The VMP was
designed to address critical open space areas and emergency/evacuation routes and support local and
regional goals in reducing wildfire risk. The VMP was prepared in accordance with the CalVTP PSA and
Addendum to the PEIR, which identifies standard treatment activities and associated environmental
protection measures in and around Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) areas in general. The VMP specifically
prioritizes fuel treatments in these parks to enhance public safety; the Town has weighed carefully the
benefits of removing fuel versus both the effects of a potentially destructive wildfire and environmental
impacts of initial clearing work and follow-up maintenance.
Treatments are planned across approximately 200 acres, distributed among five open space areas,
including Heintz, Santa Rosa Open Space, Novitiate, Worcester and La Rinconada Park(s). Three of the parks
included in the VMP are within the WUI and are also within the Very High Fire Hazard Area, between
forested mountain regions to the southwest of the Town and higher-density population areas to the north,
closer to the San Francisco Bay. Approximately 3,000 homes are within the WUI, a highly vegetated region
with limited access for firefighters or public evacuation in general.
We understand that the Town seeks an environmental consultant who can provide support and expert
planning to facilitate the VMP implementation efforts.
Sequoia’s first action item in wildland fuel reduction planning and implementation happens long before
contract execution. During the proposal process, our team focuses on novel approaches and mining
potential cost efficiencies and identifying potential project-specific and schedule roadblocks that can be
addressed proactively. While we are a small firm, Sequoia has completed and implemented the second
highest number of approved PSAs in California. Our team will apply our deep understanding of the
CalVTP process, coupled with a thorough comprehension of species phenology, patterns and
distributions, to develop the most cost-efficient option while also maximizing natural resource
protection. We recognize that clients are often operating under tight grant budgetary limits. We do our due
diligence in environmental review, contractor oversight and compliance, and species avoidance. We
understand that while effective senior oversight is an essential part of project management and quality
control, the balance of the budget should be where the boots hit the ground to accomplish as much fuel
reduction as possible.
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Sequoia Ecological Consulting, Inc.
Proposal for Town of Los Gatos - Environmental Monitoring Services for
Vegetation Management Risk Reduction Project (Open Space)
4
Overall Approach to Managing the Scope of Work
Sequoia regularly assists with the planning and implementation of multi-site fuel reduction projects with
simultaneous treatment activities and complex scheduling demands. Through this experience, we have
developed this approach to projects of this nature: we will focus on the ability to foresee issues, and the
adaptability to respond to project changes as they arise. We will ensure that communications with the
Town, its contractors, and stakeholders to be ongoing and frequent, and our continuous environmental
training program will be thorough to ensure crews are mindful of and vigilant in protecting sensitive
environmental resources while performing their work. We will develop and identify roles and
responsibilities and conduct a thorough safety planning effort to mitigate risk during implementation.
We have found that when it comes to facilitating work on a robust vegetation management program like
the Town’s, schedules are often dependent on the availability of contractors, red-flag warnings, wildfires,
permit measures, wildlife ecology, and public relations concerns. With all these variable conditions, last-
minute scheduling changes and biological monitoring requests are inevitable. Sequoia staff understand the
challenges that this program faces, and we will address the Town’s needs quickly and with the highest level
of professionalism.
Potential Challenges and Solutions
From experience in implementing fuel treatment projects under the CalVTP, Sequoia understands that
there are several potential challenges with timing and schedule. Fortunately, we have honed our adaptive
approach in this regard and developed solutions that save budget and enhance efficiency. Sequoia can work
with the Town and implementation contractor to:
• Assign staff that thoroughly understand the nature of on-call work and pivoting based on dynamic
conditions and variables;
• Ensure built-in staff redundancy in our management team to ensure that team leaders, such as
Sequoia’s project manager, have seamless back-up support during vacations and sick time. With
fuel treatment implementation projects, we understand that last-minute changes due to
environmental conditions or the dynamic nature of the work make communication a critical
component of project management. By communicating with the Town about secondary and
tertiary contacts and establishing roles in terms of the hierarchy of notifications, Sequoia intends
to address any last-minute concerns, changes or questions as quickly and thoroughly as possible;
• Schedule work outside of the nesting bird season or botanical survey season to save on treatment
monitor cost;
• Find schedule efficiencies around crew availability with regard to Red Flag workdays/shutdowns
and/or availability during the height of fire season (e.g., finding project areas or treatment
methodologies that can be performed despite restrictions on spark-generating equipment)
• Conduct crew refresher training at no additional cost during the pre-treatment or spot-check
survey activities;
• Assisting the Town with grant-required quarterly reporting as necessary.
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Sequoia Ecological Consulting, Inc.
Proposal for Town of Los Gatos - Environmental Monitoring Services for
Vegetation Management Risk Reduction Project (Open Space)
5
Task 1 – Meetings and Project Documentation
After the contract is awarded, Sequoia will organize an initial, project kickoff in-field team meeting to start
the project and ensure that the project’s goals are fully understood, and will be met within the required
timeframes. The meeting will serve as an opportunity to discuss and define project parameters, schedule,
team member roles, and communication protocols. Periodically throughout the project, Sequoia will attend
meetings with the Town and project stakeholders to ensure that project needs are met in a timely manner.
Sequoia will conduct a contractor meeting at the project onset as well. Later, during the course of the
implementation phase, Sequoia will also conduct regular progress check-in meetings over time (described
in more detail below).
At the kickoff meeting, Sequoia will provide a project schedule (similar to the example below) to the Town.
It is important to provide this at the onset of the project to facilitate prioritization, tracking, and
documentation of deliverables and major milestones. Then, during the meeting, the Town will be able to
weigh-in on the schedule itself, in real-time, and provide feedback as to major decision-points or
checkpoints.
Kickoff Meeting. At project commencement, Sequoia will meet with Town staff to review the Scope of
Services and Proposed Work Plan. This initial meeting is intended to confirm the parameters of the scope,
project scheduling, and overall communication protocols. By listening and ensuring a shared understanding,
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Sequoia Ecological Consulting, Inc.
Proposal for Town of Los Gatos - Environmental Monitoring Services for
Vegetation Management Risk Reduction Project (Open Space)
6
we will endeavor to anticipate and prioritize the Town’s needs as we serve as your eyes and ears on the
ground during work. Upon completion of the kickoff meeting, Sequoia will prepare Meeting Minutes that
summarize items discussed, and detail action items. In our experience, having the kickoff meeting in person
is an excellent means to spark side-conversations, dig deeper into details, and explore alternative
perspectives. Visiting one of the project sites just following the kickoff meeting could add even more
benefit – reviewing roles and responsibilities and work expectations, with the project landscape as a
contextual backdrop, could inspire the team at the onset. We strongly encourage the Town to consider an
in-person approach to collaborating at the first kickoff meeting.
Contractor Meeting. Once the Town selects an implementation contractor to perform fuel treatments,
Sequoia will meet with the Town and the contractor to learn the approach and sequencing intended for the
creation of the defensible space around the subject parks and facilities. When starting a project at a new
work location, we will immediately establish lines of communication between the project manager and all
involved parties, including the contractor foreman, fire crews, and Town staff. As above, an in-person
approach to meeting with crews, with the surrounding landscape as context, is an important way to assess
scope, review tasks-at-hand, and it is also a critical element in addressing logistics or safety questions prior
to work-start.
Project Meetings. Sequoia project manager and staff biologist(s) will attend up to six follow-up virtual
progress meetings with the Town and implementation contractor during execution of the work. Follow-up
meetings are critical to continued calibration and managing expectations/deliverables throughout the
course of the project. Follow-up meetings are an opportunity for the Town and Sequoia to discuss budget
projections, to plan logistics, and to re-visit compliance issues as necessary. By establishing a set schedule
of check-in meetings, Sequoia creates a consistent framework to manage the project. At the onset of the
project, the Sequoia project manager will develop a framework schedule of when meetings will occur and
will set relevant agenda items for all to review and weigh-in on prior to actual meeting dates. The Sequoia
project manager will attend all progress meetings. The Sequoia program manager will attend the kickoff
meeting, and a portion of the follow-up meetings depending on project stage and whether their technical
support or input is needed. It is Sequoia’s intent to limit the amount of overhead management time on this
project in order to keep budget with the field biologists and treatment efforts.
Monthly Work and Project Summary. Each month, Sequoia will provide a one-page summary for each of
the 18 expected working months. Summaries will document environmental work completed in the
preceding month and the scope of work planned for the next month. Sequoia will work with the Town to
determine the best format and delivery of this summary over the course of the project.
Task 1 Deliverables
• Kickoff meeting agenda and detailed memorandum, identifying information needs and a
framework for the meeting
• Meeting minutes
Docusign Envelope ID: F2CFEC63-4FF8-4B23-A2D6-36853FBAC10FDocusign Envelope ID: C3C88704-33B6-485B-9D22-15DBA66398A5
Sequoia Ecological Consulting, Inc.
Proposal for Town of Los Gatos - Environmental Monitoring Services for
Vegetation Management Risk Reduction Project (Open Space)
7
• Monthly work summaries
Task 1 Assumptions
• Kickoff meeting and fuel treatment team meetings will be in-person, on-site, and will include site
walks.
• All follow-up project progress meetings will be virtual/via phone.
Task 2 – Data Collection and Review
Sequoia will thoroughly review all project environmental documents and previously performed survey
findings.
Based on this review, Sequoia’s team will develop an outline summary of work. Sequoia will develop a
compliance matrix and reference guide for implementation crews based on the compliance documents. The
reference guide will be an efficient way for both field biologists and crews to refer to relevant measures,
methods and protocols, as well as timing of the requirements, and clear guidance and timing for the crews.
Sequoia has already developed such tables for other clients on fuel reduction projects – because these clear
templates already exist in our database, adapting them for this project will be efficient and save on cost.
Additionally, Sequoia will share all project related resources, buffers and layers with the crew via a mapping
tool such as Avenza or Google Earth. By sharing these mapping resources, the implementation contractor
will have the same level of detail for real-time resources in the field as the Sequoia staff biologists. Sequoia
will develop detailed field instructions for their biologists in general. Field instructions will focus on safety,
access-related issues, coordinating correct and up-to-date mapping resources, and other site-specific
details. By conducting this analysis and creating this documentation up-front, before implementation
begins, Sequoia will set up both field biologists and implementation crews for success. It will also establish a
standard of collaboration and communication between the team.
Review Environmental Documents. Sequoia will review and assess all environmental documents pertaining
to the proposed open space vegetation management; including the Avoidance and Minimization Measures
outlined in the PSA.
Matrix/Table of Minimization and Mitigation Requirements. Sequoia will provide a matrix/table of all
minimization and mitigation requirements for the project, split by where they occur in the project time
(before, during, after) so that it is very clear to both the Town and contractor when measures are
implemented and who the responsible parties are. Sequoia has generated this table before for other clients
– re-using the template will save on effort and cost for this project.
Task 2 Deliverables
• Matrix/table of measures, work and studies required for environmental compliance.
Docusign Envelope ID: F2CFEC63-4FF8-4B23-A2D6-36853FBAC10FDocusign Envelope ID: C3C88704-33B6-485B-9D22-15DBA66398A5
Sequoia Ecological Consulting, Inc.
Proposal for Town of Los Gatos - Environmental Monitoring Services for
Vegetation Management Risk Reduction Project (Open Space)
8
• Quick reference guides or guidance documents for biologists and crews. Sequoia will use existing
templates for guidance documents which will save time and management cost.
Task 2 Assumptions
• The Town will provide all relevant existing project documents, including GIS shapefile layers, for
Sequoia’s use and development-of-reference-guide purposes.
Task 3 - Pretreatment Surveys
Sequoia will rely on the existing documentation and mapping performed by others, to perform
pretreatment surveys of the work areas. Pretreatment surveys are a critical step in the CalVTP process.
They are used to determine whether species-specific mitigation measures are required, and they are
performed to document conditions before treatment so that a post-treatment analysis can be conducted.
Post-treatment surveys are meant to adequately determine whether any habitat type-conversion has
occurred because of the work performed. Since it has been determined that there is suitable habitat for
special status species present, and project areas have potential to be affected by a treatment activity,
pretreatment surveys will be performed, and if those species are detected and documented, further
species-specific mitigation measures will be applied.
Sequoia recognizes that working in remote wild areas requires attention to detail regarding both our own
team and members of the larger project team. Prior to beginning any survey efforts, Sequoia field biologists
will perform a safety analysis of the work in general. This will guide daily safety discussions, and safety plan
elements will be constantly updated as the project progresses (i.e., as new areas are added to the survey,
new assessments are made about relevant hazards).
Sequoia biologists will conduct focused pretreatment surveys no more than 14 days prior to the beginning
of treatment activities as mitigation measures determine that suitable habitat for special status species is
present and has potential to be directly or indirectly affected by a treatment activity. The survey area will
be determined by a qualified biologist based on the species and habitats and any recommended buffer
distances in agency protocols.
Nesting Bird Surveys. Sequoia’s biologists will conduct surveys for nesting avian species in compliance with
the CalVTP PEIR if implementation of the project is to occur during the nesting season for birds (February 1
– August 31). A Sequoia biologist will conduct nesting bird surveys no earlier than 7 days prior to the
commencement of work activities during the nesting season. The biologist will survey all areas on foot that
may provide suitable nesting habitat within 300 feet of the project site for passerines and within 500 feet
for nesting raptors, as access allows. The survey will be conducted during the morning hours for peak avian
activity and will not take place during periods of excessive or abnormal cold, heat, wind, rain, or other
inclement weather that may reduce the likelihood of detection. If nesting birds are discovered during the
initial survey, we will establish a suitable “no work” buffer around all active nests. Buffers will remain in
place for the duration of the breeding season or until it has been confirmed by a qualified biologist that all
Docusign Envelope ID: F2CFEC63-4FF8-4B23-A2D6-36853FBAC10FDocusign Envelope ID: C3C88704-33B6-485B-9D22-15DBA66398A5
Sequoia Ecological Consulting, Inc.
Proposal for Town of Los Gatos - Environmental Monitoring Services for
Vegetation Management Risk Reduction Project (Open Space)
9
chicks have fledged and are independent of their parents. Results from the nesting bird surveys will be
provided as a map layer to implementation contractors to enable them to plan work around buffers in real-
time, in the field, using a phone or tablet.
Perform Native American consultation for the project as required. Per our understanding of Standard
Project Requirement CUL-2 of the PSA, geographically affiliated Native American tribes on the Native
American Heritage Commission (NAHC) list have already been contacted and notified. From our vantage,
SPR CUL-8 (Cultural Resource Training) will need to be conducted prior and during initial treatments – we
assume the Town has this scope covered by others as well.
However, if these elements were not already previously completed, Sequoia has preemptively enlisted the
support of our long-trusted partner Montrose. In addition to working with Sequoia on numerous wildfire
mitigation efforts, Montrose has experience in watershed, stream, and open space projects, and many
years of experience with vegetation and watershed management to reduce fire risks. On this project,
Montrose will serve as the lead on contacting, coordination with, and performing all required Native
American consultation during the implementation phase. Montrose' proposed staff are also experts in
CEQA/NEPA, environmental laws including the Clean Water Act (CWA) and the Endangered Species Act
(ESA), as well as other regulatory requirements and permitting, particularly for complex efforts that include
a variety of fuel reduction treatment methods. While AB 52 compliance has been satisfied for projects
found to be within the scope of the CalVTP Program EIR with a PSA or project approval with a
PSA/Addendum, in accordance with SPR CUL-2, Montrose’s cultural resources specialist will obtain the
most current Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC) Native Americans Contact list and contact the
geographically affiliated Native American tribes. Montrose will prepare the notification letter and request
information regarding potential impacts to cultural resources from the proposed project.
Native American consultation will generally consist of the following process, pending which tasks have
already been completed or still need to be addressed before implementation begins:
• Reach out to tribes in the Los Gatos project area (if this has not already been performed)
• Inform them of the Town’s planned work;
• Respond to questions from Native American tribes;
• Provide guidance and consultant on potential site visitor work observation days;
• Potentially join tribe(s) for a site visit too, if requested by Town; and
• Document this outreach for the general administrative record/project file.
Cultural resources work will be overseen by Janis Offermann, who meets the U.S. Secretary of Interior’s
professional standards in archaeology. Montrose will work with the Town as needed, to meet all standards
for Native American consultation relative to the project study area based on the expected area of
disturbance that will be identified as an area of potential effects (APE) for the purposes of compliance with
Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA).
Docusign Envelope ID: F2CFEC63-4FF8-4B23-A2D6-36853FBAC10FDocusign Envelope ID: C3C88704-33B6-485B-9D22-15DBA66398A5
Sequoia Ecological Consulting, Inc.
Proposal for Town of Los Gatos - Environmental Monitoring Services for
Vegetation Management Risk Reduction Project (Open Space)
10
If needed and as required, Montrose will assist the Town to satisfy the requirements of Native American
consultation pursuant to AB 52, chaptered as Public Resources Code Section 21080.3.1(b), which is the
responsibility of the CEQA lead agency, as needed. Montrose will contact the NAHC on behalf of the Town
to determine whether Native American sacred sites are known to be located in or near the project, and for
a list of tribes that have a traditional and cultural affiliation with the project area and who may have
information about significant Native American resources. Once the list is received from the NAHC,
Montrose will draft a letter for review and signature by the Town, and send letters to the identified tribes
to notify them about the project and the opportunity to consult under AB 52, along with a request of
concerns or knowledge about significant Native American resources within the APE. We will mail the letter
to the tribes via certified U.S. mail with a return receipt. Follow-up emails will be to letter recipients about
2 weeks after the initial contact to verify that the letter has been received. The federal lead agency, if
applicable, will retain responsibility for Native American consultation pursuant to 36 Code of Federal
Regulations (CFR) 800.2(c)(2)(ii).
Bumble bee Surveys. Four bumble bee species are candidates for listing under the California Endangered
Species Act (CESA), and therefore require protocol surveys. Sequoia’s team includes two of the first
biologists to have their Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) from California Department of Fish and
Wildlife (CDFW) to conduct these protocol surveys. Bumble bee habitat suitability assessments (HSAs) can
be performed concurrently with the pretreatment surveys, and must be performed during the Colony
Active Period, which is approximately between April and September.
Pretreatment Surveys. Sequoia will conduct pretreatment surveys of each work location and will identify
any relevant mitigation requirements.
Pretreatment Findings and Reports. Sequoia will develop pretreatment report based on survey results.
Results will be incorporated into the real time mapping so that crews can see buffers. Sequoia biologists
will be flagging specific buffers or resources for avoidance as they are found.
Task 3 Deliverables
Written summary of field survey observations (Daily Monitoring Report)
List of mitigation requirements and recommendations for each work location
Pretreatment survey report detailing the survey efforts and results. The report will include an
introduction to the project, survey methods, results, and a discussion of the project.
Report detailing avian species observed, areas surveyed, details on active nests found, and buffer zones
implemented, as applicable
Nesting Bird Survey results will be valid for seven (7) days.
Docusign Envelope ID: F2CFEC63-4FF8-4B23-A2D6-36853FBAC10FDocusign Envelope ID: C3C88704-33B6-485B-9D22-15DBA66398A5
Sequoia Ecological Consulting, Inc.
Proposal for Town of Los Gatos - Environmental Monitoring Services for
Vegetation Management Risk Reduction Project (Open Space)
11
Task 3 Assumptions
A full desktop review and mapping resources that was conducted and/or generated by the authors of
the PSA will be made available to Sequoia for purposes of orienting the pretreatment, or any, biological
resources surveys.
While protocol level rare plant surveys are required ahead of treatments by the CalVTP, the RFP did not
list this as a task, however Sequoia can provide this service for additional costs not included in this
proposal effort.
Any necessary landowner notifications will be provided by Town prior to fieldwork. Sequoia can assist
the Town with right-of-entry (ROE) permits and notifications ahead of all field efforts, if requested.
Safe access will be provided to Sequoia at the time of the survey.
Notice to proceed will constitute permission for Sequoia to be present on the property to conduct the
field survey at a time agreed upon by Town and Sequoia.
Digital maps will be made available to crews; costs of app to utilize maps on their phones is not
included in this scope.
Town will provide Sequoia with geodata of Project and survey areas as GIS Shapefile or Google Earth
.kmz file, including the following layers:
o Park boundaries with roads and trails
o Park Habitat types
Task 4 –Environmental Awareness Training
Before work begins, an experienced Sequoia biologist will provide
environmental training to all crew members. Environmental awareness
training is a critical step in establishing communication between the
Town, its fuel reduction crews, and resource specialists. Trainings led by
Sequoia staff are open-ended and interactive, and foster a positive
relationship among the project team members. Training will include an
overview of the ecology and identification of each sensitive species with
potential to occur, nesting bird buffer protocols, and all Avoidance
Minimization and Mitigation (AMMs) and Best Management Practices
(BMPs). If needed, training may also include a demonstration of rare
plants, sudden oak death, and noxious weed decontamination protocols.
Brief, informal refresher trainings may also be also presented
periodically, as needed to remind crews of the various measures in place.
Sequoia will design and distribute
program-specific hardhat stickers
to crews completing environmental
training on the Town’s vegetation
management projects. This is a
recent example of one of our crew
environmental training stickers.
Docusign Envelope ID: F2CFEC63-4FF8-4B23-A2D6-36853FBAC10FDocusign Envelope ID: C3C88704-33B6-485B-9D22-15DBA66398A5
Sequoia Ecological Consulting, Inc.
Proposal for Town of Los Gatos - Environmental Monitoring Services for
Vegetation Management Risk Reduction Project (Open Space)
12
Sequoia will perform additional refresher training at no additional cost during treatment activities, in
conjunction with surveys or other on-site responsibilities.
Note that to be cost efficient, Sequoia will budget one (1) standalone environmental training at the
beginning of the implementation phase for all contractor crews. Any follow-up training, as either refresher
or to train new crew members as they are assigned to the project, will be performed concurrently with
pretreatment surveys and/or treatment monitoring. The versatility of our biologists in this regard (e.g.,
performing the training and then proceeding with monitoring work) is a testament to their
multifunctionality and this will benefit the project as a cost savings measure.
Our biologists regularly receive accolades and are acknowledged for their exemplary communication with
crews and clients throughout treatment activities.
If requested, Sequoia can provide bilingual staff to perform environmental training in both English and
Spanish, as well as bilingual brochures.
Task 4 Deliverables
Draft training pamphlets for Town review (in both English and Spanish, if requested)
Final materials for the training session, edited to reflect Town comments
Hardhat stickers designed and printed for crew use
Sign in sheet for training session
Task 4 Assumptions
Delivery of the on-site environmental trainings will be included in the costs for pretreatment surveys or
biological monitoring, and the training will be provided to any new crew members, as requested.
Costs include preparation of environmental training materials, including one round of comments and
edits from the Town.
Costs include 50 printed environmental awareness training pamphlets.
Refresher trainings for new crew members can be provided to crews while biologists are onsite for
pretreatment surveys at no additional cost.
Cost for stand-alone environmental trainings is provided for project initiation.
Docusign Envelope ID: F2CFEC63-4FF8-4B23-A2D6-36853FBAC10FDocusign Envelope ID: C3C88704-33B6-485B-9D22-15DBA66398A5
Sequoia Ecological Consulting, Inc.
Proposal for Town of Los Gatos - Environmental Monitoring Services for
Vegetation Management Risk Reduction Project (Open Space)
13
Task 5 –Fuel Reduction Compliance Monitoring
Fuel Reduction Compliance Monitoring. Sequoia’s highly
qualified and agency-approved biologists and/or botanists will
provide on-site observation and monitoring to the level
required to comply with the project environmental documents
as they pertain to biological resources. Sequoia biologists will
monitor fuel reduction work in the field. Depending on park
unit and habitat type, monitoring may either be half- or full
days. Sequoia has already reviewed the project documents and
we understand which areas specifically provide suitable habitat
for special status species (e.g., Foothill yellow legged frog) and
will therefore require full-time monitoring, versus those work
areas that only need spot checks or partial days to survey and
protect resources.
Sequoia’s project manager will communicate with the Town and
implementation crews on a regular basis to assess project
schedule demands and progress over time. They will brief
biologists’ on the extent of work, access, safety considerations
and monitoring scope on a regular basis to ensure consistency
of understanding. Staff biologists will continually check-in with
Town and contractors, and will submit daily reporting logs and
safety analyses during the course of work. Sequoia will open multiple layers of communication (Slack,
email, text) in order to fully cover logistics demands – in our experience, providing several means of
communication allows for flexibility among the team, as personal preferences may shift over time. The
most important element of monitoring is to establish clear roles and responsibilities both at the onset but
also over time (in the form of re-calibration points among the team). By continually checking and re-
checking compliance documents, and refreshing the team on the hierarchy of communication, Sequoia will
create an efficient and supportive project structure, with very little room for misaligned expectations or
lapses in judgment.
Task 5 Deliverables
Daily reports of field activities including photographs as appropriate, and observations of regulated
species, if applicable
Task 5 Assumptions
Fencing and signage will be provided and installed by the contractor or the Town. The biologist can
assist the onsite team with demarcation of areas where fencing will be required if necessary.
Sequoia staff know that open communication
and mutual respect are essential to address
potential compliance concerns and sensitive
species impacts during monitoring or
treatment activities. Through cooperation
and communication with crews, Sequoia staff
encourage crews to remain vigilant to
maintain compliance.
When issues arise on site that require prompt
communication, such as scheduling changes
or compliance issues, these are reported to
the appropriate team members immediately.
Sequoia’s team has a thorough
understanding of the Project, and we will
constantly work to improve our planning,
surveying, reporting, and general project
support to better meet the Town’s needs.
Docusign Envelope ID: F2CFEC63-4FF8-4B23-A2D6-36853FBAC10FDocusign Envelope ID: C3C88704-33B6-485B-9D22-15DBA66398A5
Sequoia Ecological Consulting, Inc.
Proposal for Town of Los Gatos - Environmental Monitoring Services for
Vegetation Management Risk Reduction Project (Open Space)
14
Task 6 – Project Environmental Reporting
Project Environmental Reporting. Sequoia’s experienced biologists excel at documenting project activities.
We understand that a post-project implementation report (referred to by CAL FIRE as a Completion report)
is required by the PSA under SPR AD-7. The report includes information about the size of treated area
(acres), treatment types and activities, dates of work, a list of SPRs and mitigation measures implemented,
and relevant explanations about the measures themselves. Sequoia will develop the report at project
conclusion with a statement on compliance with the environmental requirements of the project. The report
will include any/all results from post-treatment surveys, as well as all GIS data. The report will be delivered
in a timely manner, and in the case of compliance concerns, our staff will follow strict communications
protocols with Town staff for immediate incident reporting. Sequoia will make use of several layers of
senior technical review during the drafting process.
Task 6 Deliverables
Project summary report
Task 6 Assumptions
The project summary report will include one round of edits by the Town.
Optional Services
Sequoia can provide the following optional/additional services to the Town at their request, on a time and
materials basis. Our team is highly qualified to offer these services as means to supplement and enhance
the successful completion of the project.
Contractor Cultural Resources Training. As required by the PEIR, and if not already completed/planned for
by others by the Town in general, the Sequoia team (via our partner Montrose) can develop and provide
cultural resource training with a focus on potential cultural resources on-site, avoidance measures, best
management practices, and pertinent regulatory guidance for treatments.
Assistance with Request for Bids and Contractor Oversight. Sequoia can assist the Town with developing
Request(s) for Bid, contracting strategies and efficiencies, reviewing contract specifications and work
descriptions/orders, and providing implementation or inspection support on a high-level, as needed.
Sequoia performed this service as part of the La Honda Shaded Fuel Project with San Mateo County
Resource Conservation District. Sequoia is unique among consulting firms in that its Climate Resiliency &
Restoration Program Manager (Will Johnson) has a background in the implementation side of fuel
reduction and restoration and has managed projects from both contractor and consultant perspectives.
Will oversaw coordination and logistics for contractor crews and heavy equipment operations for more
than a decade prior to joining Sequoia. His extensive industry knowledge has proven to be a powerful tool
Docusign Envelope ID: F2CFEC63-4FF8-4B23-A2D6-36853FBAC10FDocusign Envelope ID: C3C88704-33B6-485B-9D22-15DBA66398A5
Sequoia Ecological Consulting, Inc.
Proposal for Town of Los Gatos - Environmental Monitoring Services for
Vegetation Management Risk Reduction Project (Open Space)
15
in soliciting cost-efficient bids, writing specifications, and reviewing potential implementation crews’
qualifications.
Invasive Plant Mapping. Sequoia can perform invasive plant mapping as populations are found and provide
data to the Town using Cal-IPC guidelines/protocols. By mapping invasive plant populations, Sequoia will
supplement Town data to help inform land management decision-making during PSA treatments, or when
performing standard Park maintenance and stewardship operations over-time. Invasive plant mapping can
be performed at minimal cost during the pretreatment survey effort.
Mapping and Documenting Other Pests. Preventing the spread of plant pathogens (e.g., pitch canker,
goldspotted oak borer, etc.) is an important part of the SPR’s for the PSA (SPR BIO-6). Aside from sanitizing
equipment and providing thorough training, it is critical to better understand where pathogens occur or are
likely to occur. Sequoia has botanists specifically trained in identifying plant pathogens and are certified
arborists. Sequoia will document or map other pests (e.g., bore beetle) as they occur throughout survey
areas. Pests can be critical indicator species for larger-scale ecosystem health and trends. By mapping other
types of pests, Sequoia can support future treatment planning efforts, and Town’s VMP, and ongoing park
and land management responsibilities.
GIS Services. Sequoia’s GIS experts can create an internal GIS database and Esri ArcGIS Online website to
track fuels treatments in real time for the Town. The GIS service can be utilized across a wide array of
platforms and can track all wildfire resiliency work. Coupled with a thoughtful approach to community
outreach above, this is an effective tool to connect the public with the work and communicate updates and
progress over time. Additional GIS database management, data collection, and cartography services can be
provided upon request. As described further in our description of the Tunnel Fuel Break project on page 26,
Sequoia provides these service to Moraga-Orinda Fire District. The web tool Sequoia created can be found
at this link.
Drone Surveys. Sequoia can offer drone services to assess project progress, document site conditions, and
develop aerial imagery for publications and presentations. Sequoia staff are Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA) Part 107 Remote Pilot-licensed. Drone assessments will provide digital orthophoto,
digital surface model (DSM), digital elevation model (DEM), and point cloud data products. Drone use will
be carefully planned in accordance with airspace restrictions, sensitivity to surrounding landowners and
agencies’ regulations (e.g., East Bay Regional Park District), and Sequoia will hold drone insurance through
Verifly. Drone footage can be a powerful tool in assessing treatment effectiveness, but also enhancing
transparency with the local community about the Town’s efforts in fire risk mitigation (see below Public
Outreach optional task for more context).
Habitat Monitoring. The Town’s responsibilities for managing treated work areas do not end at project
conclusion. The changed landscape will need to be continually managed to maintain progress made on fuel
reduction objectives. Sequoia's biologists can perform longer-term post-treatment monitoring to record
species numbers, assess changes in habitat, and will develop subsequent data analysis if necessary.
Biologists will monitor reproductive seasons of wildlife throughout the project timeline. Various levels of
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Sequoia Ecological Consulting, Inc.
Proposal for Town of Los Gatos - Environmental Monitoring Services for
Vegetation Management Risk Reduction Project (Open Space)
16
technical memoranda and presentations can be developed with data to supplement public outreach
efforts.
Public Outreach Support and Public Presentations. Sequoia understands that public perception and buy-in
are essential parts of the wildfire risk management process. On past projects, Sequoia has assisted with the
preparation and implementation of public outreach support, including stakeholder meetings,
presentations, and/or site field trips. Given that work under the VMP will occur on public parks and open
spaces with regular pedestrian use and recreational activities, Sequoia could work together with the Town
to develop consistent messaging when members of the public inevitably ask about the changing landscape.
Sequoia can assist preparation and implementation of public outreach support, including stakeholder
meetings, public meetings, presentations, and/or site field trips. Meetings could present the project
information to interested parties and gather feedback and concerns that can be addressed. Other public
meetings could include a walk-down with the agencies to ensure they agree with the approach and
compliance with the CalVTP. A slideshow could be developed to present the project and the various aspects
of CEQA compliance. Sequoia can design and provide project signage (to post for public information
purposes) to increase awareness of treatment activities in general.
Shown at Left:
Sequoia has
worked
extensively
throughout Santa
Clara County and
the greater
region. With
offices in San Jose
and numerous
staff within just
miles of the
project area,
Sequoia brings
unmatched local
expertise.
Docusign Envelope ID: F2CFEC63-4FF8-4B23-A2D6-36853FBAC10FDocusign Envelope ID: C3C88704-33B6-485B-9D22-15DBA66398A5
2024-2028
HOURLY RATE SCHEDULE
Environmental Services 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 Env. Project Mgm’t. 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028
Field Technician 1 $90 $95 $99 $104 $109 Assistant Project Manager 1 $165 $173 $182 $191 $201
Field Technician 2 $105 $110 $116 $122 $128 Assistant Project Manager 2 $170 $179 $187 $197 $207
Field Technician 3 $115 $121 $127 $133 $140 Assistant Project Manager 3 $175 $184 $193 $203 $213
Staff Biologist 1 $120 $126 $132 $139 $146 Project Manager 1 $180 $189 $198 $208 $219
Staff Biologist 2 $125 $131 $138 $145 $152 Project Manager 2 $185 $194 $204 $214 $225
Staff Biologist 3 $130 $137 $143 $150 $158 Project Manager 3 $190 $200 $209 $220 $231
Associate Biologist 1 $135 $142 $149 $156 $164 Project Manager 4 $200 $210 $221 $232 $243
Associate Biologist 2 $140 $147 $154 $162 $170 Project Manager 5 $210 $221 $232 $243 $255
Associate Biologist 3 $145 $152 $160 $168 $176 Project Manager 6 $220 $231 $243 $255 $267
Project Biologist 1 $150 $158 $165 $174 $182 Senior Project Manager 1 $230 $242 $254 $266 $280
Project Biologist 2 $155 $163 $171 $179 $188 Senior Project Manager 2 $240 $252 $265 $278 $292
Project Biologist 3 $160 $168 $176 $185 $194 Senior Project Manager 3 $250 $263 $276 $289 $304
Resource Specialist 1 $165 $173 $182 $191 $201 Program Manager 1 $260 $273 $287 $301 $316
Resource Specialist 2 $170 $179 $187 $197 $207 Program Manager 2 $270 $284 $298 $313 $328
Resource Specialist 3 $175 $184 $193 $203 $213 Program Manager 3 $280 $294 $309 $324 $340
Senior (Sr.) Biologist 1 $180 $189 $198 $208 $219 Principal 1 $290 $305 $320 $336 $352
Sr. Biologist 2 $185 $194 $204 $214 $225 Principal 2 $300 $315 $331 $347 $365
Sr. Biologist 3 $190 $200 $209 $220 $231 Principal 3 $310 $326 $342 $359 $377
Sr. Scientist 1 $200 $210 $221 $232 $243 Senior Principal 1 $320 $336 $353 $370 $389
Sr. Scientist 2 $210 $221 $232 $243 $255 Senior Principal 2 $330 $347 $364 $382 $401
Sr. Scientist 3 $220 $231 $243 $255 $267 Senior Principal 3 $340 $357 $375 $394 $413
Sr. Technical Specialist 1 $230 $242 $254 $266 $280 Geographic Information Services (GIS)
Sr. Technical Specialist 2 $240 $252 $265 $278 $292 GIS Technician 1 $135 $142 $149 $156 $164
Sr. Technical Specialist 3 $250 $263 $276 $289 $304 GIS Technician 2 $145 $152 $160 $168 $176
Sr. Regulatory Specialist 1 $260 $273 $287 $301 $316 GIS Technician 3 $155 $163 $171 $179 $188
Sr. Regulatory Specialist 2 $270 $284 $298 $313 $328 GIS Analyst 1 $165 $173 $182 $191 $201
Sr. Regulatory Specialist 3 $280 $294 $309 $324 $340 GIS Analyst 2 $175 $184 $193 $203 $213
Botanist/Arborist Services GIS Analyst 3 $185 $194 $204 $214 $225
Botanist/Arborist 1 $135 $135 $142 $149 $156 GIS Project Manager 1 $200 $210 $221 $232 $243
Botanist/Arborist 2 $150 $150 $158 $165 $174 GIS Project Manager 2 $210 $221 $232 $243 $255
Botanist/Arborist 3 $165 $165 $173 $182 $191 GIS Project Manager 3 $220 $231 $243 $255 $267
Sr. Botanist/Arborist 1 $185 $185 $194 $204 $214 GIS Specialist 1 $230 $242 $254 $266 $280
Sr. Botanist/Arborist 2 $200 $200 $210 $221 $232 GIS Specialist 2 $240 $252 $265 $278 $292
Sr. Botanist/Arborist 3 $215 $215 $226 $237 $249 GIS Specialist 3 $250 $263 $276 $289 $304
Administrative Support Services GIS Program Manager 1 $260 $273 $287 $301 $316
Clerical $110 $116 $121 $127 $134 GIS Program Manager 2 $270 $284 $298 $313 $328
Project Administrator $135 $142 $149 $156 $164 GIS Program Manager 3 $280 $294 $309 $324 $340
Technical Editor I $150 $158 $165 $174 $182
Technical Editor II $160 $168 $176 $185 $194
Technical Editor III $170 $179 $187 $197 $207
Senior Technical Editor $195 $205 $215 $226 $237
Docusign Envelope ID: F2CFEC63-4FF8-4B23-A2D6-36853FBAC10FDocusign Envelope ID: C3C88704-33B6-485B-9D22-15DBA66398A5
Sequoia Ecological Consulting, Inc. Hourly Rate Schedule Page 2 of 2
Other Direct Costs
Regular Vehicle (GSA Rate) $0.67/mile
Submeter GPS $100/day
UTV and Trailer $95/day
Fleet Vehicle $95/day
iPad $10/day
Wildlife Remote Camera $20/ day
Acoustic Bat Monitor $35/day
Kayak Kit $75/day
Survey Flashlight (Streamlight) $12.50/day
Aquatic Survey Sampling Kit $25/person/day
Drone/sUAS $250/day
Wetsuit $70/week
Drysuit $195/week
YSI ProDSS Water Quality
Meter $125/day
Expense Reimbursement/Other:
1. Computer, facsimile, and telephone are included in the billing rates, and there is no additional charge.
2. Reproduction, equipment, and other direct expenses are reimbursed at cost plus a 15% administrative handling charge
(excluding mileage).
3. Subconsultants will be billed at their indicated rate plus a 15% administrative handling charge; or the Sequoia labor category
commensurate with their role.
4. Depending upon location, Per Diem may be charged where overnight stays are required.
5. Weekly or monthly equipment rates at a reduced amount may be available on a contract-specific basis.
6. Expert Witness Testimony, including Depositions, is billed at the time and half.
7. Non-standard invoice processing will be billed at standard hourly rates for support personnel.
8. Sequoia will review our hourly rates annually and may choose to escalate our rate sheet depending on changes to the
cost- of living- index and other factors.
9. Hours beyond 8 hours per day are charged at an overtime rate of 1.5 times our standard hourly rates for qualifying personnel.
To comply with California Labor Code 512 and California Code of Regulations 11040, if on-site conditions prohibit personnel
from taking required breaks, one additional hour of time will be billed per day for qualifying staff covered under the regulations.
Docusign Envelope ID: F2CFEC63-4FF8-4B23-A2D6-36853FBAC10FDocusign Envelope ID: C3C88704-33B6-485B-9D22-15DBA66398A5
Montrose Environmental Solutions
2024 Billing Rates
Staff Labor Rates
Classification Hourly Rate
Principal $262
Director II $240
Director I $230
Senior Associate II $218
Senior Associate I $208
Associate II $200
Associate I $191
Analyst II $180
Analyst I $170
Surveyor $148
Technician II $136
Technician I $120
GIS Analyst/CAD Technician $153
Technical Editor $131
Publication Specialist $114
Administrative Assistant $114
Direct Expenses
(10% markup; includes subconsultants)
Item Rate
Mileage Current 2024 IRS Rate ($0.655/mile)
Printing (in‐house)
‐ Black/white prints $0.15 per page
‐ Color prints $1.00 per page
‐ CDs (including label and envelope) $1.50 each
Equipment rental
‐ GIS mapping $30/hour
‐ GPS unit or Auger $100.00/day
Outside vendors; including
At cost plus markup ‐ Equipment rentals
‐ Document production and supplies
Note: Rates are subject to 3% escalation each year.
1 Kaiser Plaza, Suite 340, Oakland CA 94612
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Sequoia Ecological Consulting, Inc.
Proposal for Town of Los Gatos - Environmental Monitoring Services for
Vegetation Management Risk Reduction Project (Open Space)
20
Relevant Experience
About Sequoia
Founded in 2011, Sequoia is a Bay Area-based, Woman-owned Small business with local offices in San Jose.
We provide environmental consulting services to public agencies and private entities throughout northern
California. With a full-time local staff of more than 50 biologists and a history of successfully managing
environmental compliance efforts for local agencies' fuel management efforts, Sequoia is positioned to
quickly mobilize planners, biologists and species experts, botanists, arborists, foresters, and qualified
scientists whose expertise facilitate successful and expedited planning and implementation of critical
wildfire mitigation and restoration projects.
Sequoia has been supporting vegetation management efforts since our inception, and as our firm has
grown, we built on that foundation as we have worked with city and county agencies, fire districts,
landowners, and regulatory agencies to provide consultation, planning and permitting, site assessments,
compliance monitoring services, and surveys and habitat assessments for sensitive species. We understand
the unique challenges associated with these efforts and our staff are able to tackle critical project
objectives alongside responsible agency staff, firefighters, and contractors. Working on these types of
projects has instilled in us a profound sense of teamwork and purpose, and enabled us to serve as a
flexible, seamless extension of our clients’ staff.
MK will add a full-width photo with caption here.
Sequoia biologists providing training to fire crews in
preparation for shaded fuel break treatments.
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Sequoia Ecological Consulting, Inc.
Proposal for Town of Los Gatos - Environmental Monitoring Services for
Vegetation Management Risk Reduction Project (Open Space)
21
Project Experience
La Honda Shaded Fuel Break and On-Call Environmental
Support | SAN MATEO COUNTY | SAN MATEO RESOURCE
CONSERVATION DISTRICT
The Sequoia team (Sequoia and Montrose) has been supporting the San Mateo Resource Conservation
District (RCD) with planning and implementation of the La Honda Shaded Fuel Break, a 19-mile fuel break
surrounding the community of La Honda in unincorporated San Mateo County.
With implementation slated for November 2023 per funding requirements, the RCD engaged Sequoia to
help meet project’s CEQA requirements under the CalVTP PEIR. To meet the aggressive schedule and all
regulatory requirements for implementation, the Sequoia team designed a CalVTP treatment plan to avoid
the need for additional regulatory permitting from other agencies, and to balance environmental
protection with the needs of the RCD, the La Honda community, and its stakeholders. Sequoia worked with
the RCD to define methodology and phasing of specific treatment prescriptions; and provided detailed
recommendations for tree pruning specifications, understory vegetation and shrub treatments,
management of cut biomass, timing of treatments, aesthetics, and future maintenance and invasive species
considerations.
Sequoia submitted the CalVTP Project-Specific Analysis (PSA) and Addendum for that project, as well as a
Biological Resource Report and Cultural Resources Report after preparing and sending project
notification letters to NAHC tribes. Upon agency submittal and approval of the PSA, Sequoia will assist with
the request for bids and contractor oversight during implementation.
Reference Contact San Mateo Resource Conservation District
Timothy Federal, Program Manager, Forest Health and Fire Resilience
Phone: 650.712.7765 x124
Email: timothy@sanmateorcd.org
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Sequoia Ecological Consulting, Inc.
Proposal for Town of Los Gatos - Environmental Monitoring Services for
Vegetation Management Risk Reduction Project (Open Space)
22
East Bay Regional Park District Fuels Reduction Program
| ALAMEDA AND CONTRA COSTA COUNTIES | EBRPD
From 2016-2021, Sequoia assisted the East Bay Regional Park District with system-wide implementation of
the Wildfire Hazard Reduction and Resource Management Plan, as well as interpretation of a Biological
Opinion, Incidental Take Permit, and Environmental Impact Report for the District’s fuels reduction project.
This project extends throughout EBRPD property in Alameda and Contra Costa counties. Sequoia
coordinated communication and monthly update meetings with the District, and managed performance of
the biomonitoring effort. Sequoia's biologists and technical specialists performed pre-and post-construction
surveys, pre-activity surveys, biological monitoring, and long-term monitoring. A large group of Sequoia
staff are approved by both the USFWS and CDFW to work with sensitive species on site. Sequoia staff also
performed habitat assessments for AWS, identify signs of infection by Phytophthora cinnamomi, facilitated
decontamination protocols to prevent the spread of Phytophthora species, and implemented AMMs during
fuels treatment activities.
Approved staff members survey, monitor for, assess habitat quality, and conduct environmental trainings
for special status species, including Alameda whipsnake, Pallid manzanita, California red-legged frog,
Western pond turtle, San Francisco dusky-footed woodrat, California tiger salamander, and Western
leatherwood.
Reference Contact East Bay Regional Park District Kristen Van Dam, Resource Analyst/Ecologist Phone: 510.544.2324 Email: kvandam@ebparks.org
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Sequoia Ecological Consulting, Inc.
Proposal for Town of Los Gatos - Environmental Monitoring Services for
Vegetation Management Risk Reduction Project (Open Space)
23
Forest Health and Fire Resiliency Project in Huddart &
Wunderlich Parks | SAN MATEO COUNTY | SAN MATEO RCD
San Mateo Resource Conservation District (RCD), in collaboration with CAL FIRE and San Mateo County
Parks developed high priority fuel reduction treatment projects on county lands in the northern Santa Cruz
Mountains for forest health purposes. The collaboration resulted in the development of a forest health fuel
reduction project at Huddart and Wunderlich, San Mateo County Parks encompassing 402.1 acres of
vegetative treatments and a goal to enhance and restore a forest system challenged by changing climates, a
lack of fire, and many homes in close proximity. Project activities primarily included mechanical thinning of
vegetation up to 8” in diameter and pest management (Sudden Oak Death), which further improved forest
health, fuel reduction, and carbon sequestration goals. These landscape level vegetation treatments have
successfully reduced wildfire risk while increasing wildfire management opportunities.
Sequoia was contracted to support the project vegetation treatment prescriptions by conducting special
status species and habitat surveys in scheduled work areas. Sequoia biologists conducted nesting bird
surveys, assessed trees for bat roosting habitat, and visually searched for wood rat middens. The biologist
flagged resources in accordance with RCD flagging conventions, communicated the locations of flagged
resources to vegetation treatment crews, and provided the RCD with a daily survey report. Sequoia worked
closely with the RCD to provide seamless environmental support aiding in early completion of the project.
Reference Contact David Cowman, Forest Ecologist
San Mateo Resource Conservation District
Office: 650.712.7765 x 107
Email: david@sanmateorcd.org
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Sequoia Ecological Consulting, Inc.
Proposal for Town of Los Gatos - Environmental Monitoring Services for
Vegetation Management Risk Reduction Project (Open Space)
24
Various San Mateo County Fuel Breaks and Vegetation
Management Support | SAN MATEO COUNTY | CAL FIRE & SAN
MATEO COUNTY PARKS
Supporting CAL FIRE’s work on the 70-acre Kings Mountain Road Emergency Shaded Fuel Break Project,
Sequoia met with CAL FIRE staff and project representatives to plan for project implementation, special
protection measures, and potential operational constraints. Treatments included mechanical treatments
(masticators) to create a shaded fuel break along with utilization of hand crews with chippers and burn
piles. Sequoia provided focused endangered species and botanical surveys to ensure environmental
compliance and adherence to CAL FIRE’s fuel reduction (AMMs). We provided environmental training to
CAL FIRE crews, and conducted pre-treatment assessments, collecting data on species cover, composition,
and presence of invasive species. Sequoia will conduct post-treatment assessments to determine
maintenance intervals for the fuel break. As part of the same project, Sequoia supported the San Mateo
County Parks Department, performing focused surveys under our on-call contract to determine the
presence of rare plants, primarily Kings Mountain manzanita. Sequoia’s botanists surveyed more than 1,900
acres of park land for this project.
Sequoia worked with CAL FIRE in support of the El Granada-Quarry Park Emergency Shaded Fuel Break
Project. This 170-acre project restored a system of access roads and perimeter fuel breaks within a 500-
acre eucalyptus stand near Half Moon Bay. Sequoia assisted with project implementation, special
protection measures, and potential operational (biological) constraints. Sequoia’s biologists conducted
preliminary surveys and mapping of proposed work areas focusing on the presence of nesting birds,
sensitive species and their habitat, existing erosion or signs of other work already competed, and safety
hazards; as well as biological monitoring and environmental training.
Reference Contact CAL FIRE Sarah Collamer, CZU Forester I – VMP
Phone: 831.254.1792
Email: Sarah.Collamer@fire.ca.gov
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Sequoia Ecological Consulting, Inc.
Proposal for Town of Los Gatos - Environmental Monitoring Services for
Vegetation Management Risk Reduction Project (Open Space)
25
Countywide Wildfire Prevention/Hazard Mitigation
Projects | MARIN COUNTY | MARIN WILDFIRE PREVENTION AUTHORITY
Sequoia is supporting the Marin Wildfire Prevention Authority (MWPA) under a second consecutive
contract to permit and implement a large number of fire prevention projects throughout Marin County.
Sequoia provides biological services during environmental planning and implementation of the 40+
projects within the work plan. Our biologists conduct literature reviews of biological resources, field
assessments, prepare and present environmental trainings, conduct specialized nesting bird and sensitive
plant surveys, and provide ongoing specialized expertise to assist the MWPA. We have also assisted in
the preparation of Environmentally Sensitive Habitat Area (ESHA) mapping to conform with the Marin
County Coastal Zone's Local Coastal Plan, and we prepared a Project-specific Checklist (PSA) in
compliance with the CalVTP in support of various MWPA projects.
Sequoia’s early involvement during the planning phase allowed us to assist in designing projects to avoid
environmental impacts and maximize available funds. Sequoia biologists performed specialized surveys
including nesting bird surveys, sensitive plant surveys, and protocol-level northern spotted owl surveys;
as well as invasive species mapping.
This programmatic effort spans all of Marin County and addresses potential impacts to many sensitive
species and various sensitive plants. Sequoia meets each month with project stakeholders, including
members of the public, to assist MWPA in providing transparency to the public and interested parties
regarding environmental compliance and avoidance of resource impacts.
Reference Contact Anne Crealock Planning and Program Manager
Marin Wildfire Prevention Authority Tel: (707) 332-0866
Email: acrealock@marinwildfire.org
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Sequoia Ecological Consulting, Inc.
Proposal for Town of Los Gatos - Environmental Monitoring Services for
Vegetation Management Risk Reduction Project (Open Space)
26
Tunnel East Bay Hills Shaded Fuel Break Project | CONTRA
COSTA COUNTY, CA
Sequoia is supporting the Moraga-Orinda Fire District (MOFD) on its CAL FIRE-funded Tunnel East Bay Hills
Shaded Fuel Break Project, an 1,110-acre expansion of the 2019 North Orinda Shaded Fuel Break (NOSFB)
project. The project is subject to the California State and Federal Endangered Species Act, the Migratory Bird
Treaty Act, and other species protections regulated by USFWS, CDFW, and local agencies.
Sequoia worked with MOFD throughout the planning process, preparing a Project-specific Analysis (PSA)
checklist and Addendum to secure permitting under the CalVTP, and performing biological and cultural
resource assessments, agency coordination, communication with the public, mapping, and contractor
coordination. Before work commenced, Sequoia performed detailed preliminary surveys of proposed work
areas, and will also conduct post-treatment surveys of treated areas. Surveys focused on the presence of
nesting birds, sensitive species and their habitat, existing erosion or signs of other work already completed,
and safety hazards. Data collected during these surveys will help MOFD to document permit compliance as
well as inform the need for future maintenance work and assess post-treatment fire risk.
Similar to the work Sequoia conducted for the original NOSFB project, our biologists are currently supporting
implementation, performing daily monitoring of work and close communication with the crews to ensure that
the project is conducted in compliance with project permits. We present environmental training to all crew
members, including intensive training on decontamination of equipment, boots, and vehicles to stop the
spread of Phytopthora. Treatments monitored have included hand treatment, mastication, controlled burns,
pile burning, lop and scatter, chip and haul out, and prescribed herbivory.
Reference Contact Jeff Isaacs, Fire Marshal
Moraga-Orinda Fire District
Tel: (925) 258-4513
Email: jisaacs@mofd.org
Pictured here:
Last month, Sequoia staff were invited to greet
members of the public during the City of Orinda's 2nd
Annual Wildfire Safety and Preparedness Fair (shown
at top left). Sequoia shared the Landowner Look Up
Tool (bottom left) and Best Practices for Home
Hardening Guide (shown at right) we prepared with the
Moraga-Orinda Fire District, and answered questions
about environmental protection measures applied on
the various shaded fuel breaks managed by the
Moraga-Orinda Fire District and Contra Costa County
Fire Protection District in the area.
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Sequoia Ecological Consulting, Inc.
Proposal for Town of Los Gatos - Environmental Monitoring Services for
Vegetation Management Risk Reduction Project (Open Space)
27
At Sequoia, our team is our greatest asset. Our highly qualified and experienced staff are the backbone of
our successful project delivery. Our approach and the diversified experience of the staff we have selected
to work on the project will allow for combined efforts and cost savings, to maximize the Town’s allocated
funds and efforts.
Our Principal-in-Charge, Debie Montana, will serve as primary contact for the Town for the duration of the
proposal and contracting process, while Project Manager Kyle Verblauuw will be your point of contact
throughout the performance period.
Debie Montana
Principal-in-Charge
Debie Montana will provide project oversight,
managerial support, and assurance that Sequoia
will provide the dedicated resources required to
meet the Town’s needs on this project. Mrs.
Montana feels deeply privileged to lead Sequoia
in supporting wildfire mitigation efforts, playing a
small role in stewarding the land that provides a
retreat and a home to our staff and our families,
and protecting the habitats and species that
inspired her to become a biologist.
Certified in Project Management by the
University of California at Davis, Mrs. Montana
oversees large-scale fuels treatment projects
spanning diverse regions and habitats. She leads
Sequoia's efforts including:
• San Mateo RCD La Honda Shaded Fuel Break
PSA and Addendum preparation, and
implementation support
• San Mateo County Parks Department and CAL
FIRE focused species and rare plant surveys
for fuel reduction activities covering more
than 2,000 acres of park land throughout San
Mateo County
• Marin Wildfire Prevention Authority planning
and implementation of >40 wildfire
mitigation projects
• Contra Costa County Fire District’s on-call
consultant for planning and implementation
of its programmatic fuels efforts, including
work under the CalVTP
• On-call contract with the East Bay Regional
Park District for biological support on fuel
management projects including more than 30
FEMA-funded projects
• Planning and implementation services for
more than 3,000 acres of fuel break for the
Moraga-Orinda Fire District
Debie’s background and certifications:
20 years of experience in the environmental
industry
M.S., Biological Sciences with Concentration in
Organismal Biology, Conservation and Ecology,
San Jose State University •
B.S., Biological Sciences with Concentration in
Conservation and Organismal Biology, San Jose
State University •
Certificate, Project Management, University of
California, Davis
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Sequoia Ecological Consulting, Inc.
Proposal for Town of Los Gatos - Environmental Monitoring Services for
Vegetation Management Risk Reduction Project (Open Space)
28
Kyle Verblaauw
Project Manager
Kyle Verblaauw is a project manager and biologist
specializing in Northern California’s special-status
species. With a Master’s degree in Environmental
Management from the University of San
Francisco, Kyle oversees some of Sequoia’s
largest programmatic fuels management
implementation compliance efforts, including
management and coordination of staff
performing protocol-level surveys, pre-
construction surveys, rare plant surveys, and
biological compliance monitoring.
Kyle has worked extensively with species such as
the California tiger salamander, California red-
legged frog, and western burrowing owl. He holds
a USFWS Recovery Permit and California permits
for these species, and has experience with PIT
tagging, burrow excavations, and amphibian
surveys. His experience with Sequoia includes:
• Biological Project Manager for Marin Wildfire
Prevention Authority during planning and
implementation of >40 wildfire mitigation
projects
• San Mateo County Parks, Edgewood Shaded
Fuels Break, Redwood City, CA
• San Mateo County Parks, Quarry Park Shaded
Fuels Break, El Granada, CA
• Butano State Park Forest Health Project;
Pescadero, CA
• Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District,
Bear Creek Redwood Preserve Phase II Trails
Project; Los Gatos, CA
• Napa County RCD’s CalVTP Project-Specific
Analysis and Addendum for Las Posadas
Forest
• Novato Fire Protection District’s Wildfire
Resiliency Technical Coordinator
• San Rafael Open Space Defensible Fuel
Reduction
• Sonoma County Regional Parks: Hood
Mountain Vegetation Management Planning
Kyle’s background and certifications:
10 years of experience in the environmental
consulting industry
MS, Environmental Management (Ecology),
University of San Francisco
BA, Environmental Studies (Biology), University of
California Santa Barbara
UC Education Abroad Program, (Marine Biology
and Terrestrial Ecology), University of
Queensland, Australia•
USFWS 10(a)(1)(A) Recovery Permit
#ESPER0045160 for California Tiger Salamander
and California Red-legged Frog
CDFW Scientific Collecting Permit #S-211500002-
21363-001 and MOU for California Tiger
Salamander, and California Red-legged Frog
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Sequoia Ecological Consulting, Inc.
Proposal for Town of Los Gatos - Environmental Monitoring Services for
Vegetation Management Risk Reduction Project (Open Space)
29
Will Johnson
Program Manager
Will Johnson has 16 years of experience in habitat
restoration, mitigation planning, natural resource
monitoring, and project management. Over the
past decade, he has worked on various projects
throughout northern California, serving as a field
biologist, site superintendent, manager, crew
leader, and equipment operator. Will is adept at
managing projects from proposal to closeout,
ensuring compliance with standard specifications,
plans, and permit requirements.
He has authored site management and long-term
maintenance plans, cost proposals, budgets, and
technical write-ups. Will has collaborated with
and contracted for a diverse range of clients,
including county, state, and federal agencies,
consulting firms, non-profits, special districts, and
private landowners. His work has involved
numerous special status species in Northern
California, and he has conducted rare plant
surveys and managed projects involving species
like the western burrowing owl and Swainson’s
hawk.
Kelyn McGuire
Surveys and Monitoring,
Environmental Training
Kelyn McGuire is an enthusiastic biologist with
more than 2 years of experience in
environmental consulting and biological field
work. With exquisite attention to detail and
ability to coordinate among all parties, Kelyn
serves as Sequoia’s field lead for fuels treatment
monitoring, surveys, and environmental training
for projects with the Contra Costa County Fire
Protection District, as well as the Moraga-Orinda
Fire District. She is experienced at coordinating
and conducting surveys for nesting birds and
special status species including California tiger
salamander, California red-legged frog, Alameda
whipsnake, western pond turtle, and San
Francisco dusky-footed woodrat, among many
others. Kelyn also assists with rare plant surveys
and California spotted owl surveys under the
supervision of senior biologists/botanists, and
bumble bee surveys with a permitted biologist.
Will’s background and certifications:
16 years of experience in habitat restoration,
mitigation planning, inspection and compliance
support, natural resource monitoring, and both
project and program-level administration and
management
MS, Biological Sciences, University of Rhode Island
BS, Biological Sciences, University of Rhode Island
California Contractors State License Board – C-27
Landscape Construction License, 1086577, exp.
2026
California Department of Pesticide Regulation –
Qualified Applicator License, 162032, exp.
12/2024
Kelyn’s background and certifications:
2+ years of field experience
BA Environmental Studies (Anthropology),
University of California, Santa Barbara
UC Education Abroad Program, (Anthropology)
University of Edinburgh, Scotland
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Sequoia Ecological Consulting, Inc.
Proposal for Town of Los Gatos - Environmental Monitoring Services for
Vegetation Management Risk Reduction Project (Open Space)
30
Brian Nissen
Surveys and Monitoring,
Environmental Training
More than 6 years of professional experience
working with private industry consulting, federal
and state agencies compliance, and volunteer
research projects
Brian Nissen is a restoration ecologist and field
biologist with over 6 years of experience. He has
worked on ecological restoration and biological
surveys across the San Francisco Bay Area,
focusing on special status species and habitat
restoration. Brian is skilled in project design,
implementation, invasive plant management,
native plant propagation, and irrigation systems.
He holds permits for surveying California tiger
salamander and California red-legged frog and
has extensive experience with these species on
construction projects. Brian has also conducted
surveys for other special status species, including
nesting birds, raptors, burrowing owls, and rare
plants like Santa Cruz robust spineflower.
Additionally, he has over 100 hours of passerine
banding experience with the San Francisco Bay
Bird Observatory.
Nicolas Anderson
Surveys and Monitoring,
Environmental Training, and GIS
Nicolas Anderson has 5 years of experience in
wildlife and vegetation surveys, habitat
restoration, construction monitoring, forestry
management, and geographic information
systems (GIS). His surveying skills include point-
count, mark-recapture for small mammals and
fish, electrofishing, mist netting, spotlighting, dip
netting, seining, hoop netting, telemetry, and
herpetological surveys for wetland IBI
assessments.
Nicolas has conducted threatened and
endangered species surveys across the Midwest,
Southeast U.S., and California. Species he has
worked with include the western pond turtle,
California red-legged frog, Indiana bat, Henslow’s
sparrow, loggerhead sea turtle, northern long-
eared bat, and greater prairie-chicken. His
vegetation surveys have covered species such as
beaked spikerush, slender rush, and western
prairie fringed orchid.
Brian’s background and certifications:
5+ years of field experience
BS, Natural Resources, Fisheries and Wildlife
Science, Oregon State University
10(a)(1)(A) Recovery Permit (PER0011950),
California tiger salamander, California red-legged
frog
CDFW Scientific Collection Permit (SC-190180001)
Nick’s background and certifications:
7+ years of field experience
Wildland Firefighter Type II
BS in Fisheries, Wildlife, and Conservation
biology, University of Minnesota, Twin Cities
NPDES Construction Stormwater Inspector
Docusign Envelope ID: F2CFEC63-4FF8-4B23-A2D6-36853FBAC10FDocusign Envelope ID: C3C88704-33B6-485B-9D22-15DBA66398A5
Sequoia Ecological Consulting, Inc.
Proposal for Town of Los Gatos - Environmental Monitoring Services for
Vegetation Management Risk Reduction Project (Open Space)
32
Attachment A - Other Information
Why Choose Sequoia?
Experience with Federally Funded Fuels Management Efforts
Sequoia is deeply familiar with the variety of funding mechanisms for California’s fuels management
projects. We have worked on dozens of FEMA-funded projects for clients including East Bay Regional Park
District, the RCD, and numerous projects through CAL FIRE. We understand the requirements of these
projects including invoicing, reporting, and the importance of meeting deadlines and milestones set forth
by grants.
Demonstrated Experience with Fire Crews
Sequoia and its staff have coordinated and worked closely with fire crews and agencies including but not
limited to:
• CAL FIRE
• Moraga-Orinda Fire District
• Novato Fire District (Full-time staff augmentation)
• Mt. Diablo Fire Safe Council
• California Conservation Corps
• East Bay Regional Park District's Fire Department
• Contra Costa County Fire Protection District
Qualified Biologists with Certifications and Permits to Handle and Survey
for Listed Species
Sequoia's staff have all the requisite certifications and permits to provide the range of expertise required to
implement the Town’s VMP. Our staff includes GIS Specialists, TRAQ Certified Personnel, a Certified
Consulting Botanist, Certified Arborist, and numerous individuals with 10(a)1(A) recovery permits and/or
Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) for sensitive species including: Western bumble bee, California
tiger salamander, California red-legged frog, San Francisco garter snake, Foothill yellow-legged frog,
California Ridgway’s rail, Western snowy plover, Vernal pool branchiopods, and other sensitive species.
A table showing our team's certifications and licensing is provided below.
Docusign Envelope ID: F2CFEC63-4FF8-4B23-A2D6-36853FBAC10FDocusign Envelope ID: C3C88704-33B6-485B-9D22-15DBA66398A5
Sequoia Ecological Consulting, Inc.
Proposal for Town of Los Gatos - Environmental Monitoring Services for
Vegetation Management Risk Reduction Project (Open Space)
33
Table. Sequoia Permitted and Certified Staff
Stephen Gergeni MOU attached to SCP; S-201190005-21059-001, Covers 4 CESA-Candidate Bumble Bee Species,
Western bumble bee, Crotch's bumble bee, Franklin's bumble bee and Suckley's Cuckoo
bumble bee
USFWS 10(a)(1)(A) Recovery Permit #TE-84156D-0, Giant garter snake, California tiger
salamander, California red-legged frog
CDFW Scientific Collecting Permit #SC-2011900005, Giant garter snake, California tiger
salamander, California red-legged frog, Foothill yellow-legged frog, amphibians, reptiles, small
mammals, San Francisco dusky-footed woodrat, California giant salamander, Santa Cruz black
salamander, Northern red-legged frog, Western spadefoot toad; Northern alligator lizard
Northern pond turtle, Southwestern pond turtle, terrestrial and vernal pool inverts
Andrew Ford MOU attached to SCP; S-201190005-21059-001, Covers 4 CESA-Candidate Bumble Bee
Species, Western bumble bee, Crotch's bumble bee, Franklin's bumble bee and Suckley's
Cuckoo bumble bee
USFWS 10(a)(1)(A) Recovery Permit #TE-66228D-0, California tiger salamander and California
red-legged frog
Certified Consulting Botanist CCB-0029
California Endangered Species Act Plant Voucher Collecting Permit 2081 1(a)-19-101-V
ISA Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (ISA TRAQ)
ISA Certified Arborist, WE-13284A
Ari Rogers USFWS 10(a)(1)(A) Recovery Permit #TE 41340D-0, California tiger salamander and California
red-legged frog
CDFW MOU SC-13818, California tiger salamander (under Woodruff for CTS as an authorized
individual)
Certified Ecological Restoration Practitioner-in-Training (CERPIT) CERPIT #0678, Society for
Ecological Restoration
California Endangered Species Act Plant Voucher Collecting Permit 2081 1(a)-18-081-V
Aurelie Hening Sub-permittee USFWS 10(a)(1)(A) Recovery Permit #TE-34570A-3.2, western snowy plover
Brendan Champlin ISA Certified Arborist (WE-13739AU)
Brett Hanshew USFWS 10(a)(1)(A) Recovery Permit #TE-67570A-0, California tiger salamander (Sonoma
County-Distinct Population Segment and Santa Barbara County-Distinct Population Segment),
California red-legged frog, San Francisco Garter Snake, Vernal pool branchiopods
CDFW MOU: SC-009343, California tiger salamander, Foothill yellow-legged frog, and San
Francisco Garter Snake
Brian Nissen 10(a)(1)(A) Recovery Permit (PER0011950), California tiger salamander, California red-legged
frog
CDFW Scientific Collection Permit (SC-190180001)
Docusign Envelope ID: F2CFEC63-4FF8-4B23-A2D6-36853FBAC10FDocusign Envelope ID: C3C88704-33B6-485B-9D22-15DBA66398A5
Sequoia Ecological Consulting, Inc.
Proposal for Town of Los Gatos - Environmental Monitoring Services for
Vegetation Management Risk Reduction Project (Open Space)
34
Jesse Reebs USFWS 10(a)(1)(A) Recovery Permit #TE-01769B-3, California tiger salamander, San Francisco
Garter Snake, Alameda whipsnake, California Ridgway’s rail
CDFW MOU: SC-010272, California tiger salamander, San Francisco Garter Snake, Alameda
whipsnake, California Ridgway’s rail
Julie Woodruff USFWS 10(a)(1)(A) Recovery Permit #TE-71409C-0, California red-legged frog, California tiger
salamander, and Sierra Nevada yellow-legged frog
CDFW MOU: SC-13782, California tiger salamander, foothill yellow-legged frog, and Sierra
Nevada yellow-legged frog
USGS Bird Banding Lab Master Bander #24106, Northern saw-whet owl, western screech-owl,
and
burrowing owl
Kyle Verblaauw USFWS 10(a)(1)(A) Recovery Permit #ESPER0045160, California tiger salamander, California
red-legged frog
SCP# S-211500002-21363-001, California tiger salamander, California red-legged frog, Pacific
treefrog, American bullfrog, Foothill yellow-legged frog, California newt, Redbellied newt,
Rough-skinned newt
Ability to Respond Quickly to Changes in Schedule
The nature of these projects lends itself to last-minute schedule changes due to weather, fire risk, and
other unpredictable conditions. Sequoia’s team of cross-trained local biologists are already approved by the
CDFW and USFWS to survey and monitor for the sensitive species found within the Project area. Because
our staff are deployed from our offices in San Jose and Walnut Creek, we require minimal mobilization and
travel time. This allows us to hit the ground running at project kickoff, and to rapidly mobilize fully qualified
staff, accommodating concurrent work and changing project needs. Sequoia will respond to Town requests
within 30 minutes, and we can schedule qualified biologists for field surveys and monitoring efforts within
24 hours of requests, or less.
Full Understanding of PSA Implementation under the CalVTP
Sequoia has deep experience in both development and implementation of the PSA process. In addition to
supporting clients and contractors during the implementation phase, and monitoring fuel reduction in
accordance with environmental measures of the CalVTP, Sequoia has also authored several approved PSAs.
Because we bring this experience, the Town can be assured that Sequoia understands the process
thoroughly and can find ways of streamlining certain parts of the process to better benefit species, cost and
timelines. Recent Sequoia PSAs can be found (here and here) and Sequoia has contributed to the
development of several PSA’s under the Marin Wildfire Prevention Authority (here). As part of past PSA
processes, Sequoia has also developed PSA addenda as necessary.
Docusign Envelope ID: F2CFEC63-4FF8-4B23-A2D6-36853FBAC10FDocusign Envelope ID: C3C88704-33B6-485B-9D22-15DBA66398A5
Sequoia Ecological Consulting, Inc.
Proposal for Town of Los Gatos - Environmental Monitoring Services for
Vegetation Management Risk Reduction Project (Open Space)
35
Client Testimonials and Letters of Recommendation
Docusign Envelope ID: F2CFEC63-4FF8-4B23-A2D6-36853FBAC10FDocusign Envelope ID: C3C88704-33B6-485B-9D22-15DBA66398A5
Sequoia Ecological Consulting, Inc.
Proposal for Town of Los Gatos - Environmental Monitoring Services for
Vegetation Management Risk Reduction Project (Open Space)
36
East Bay Regional Park District
Kristen Van Dam, Resource Analyst/Ecologist
“Sequoia has provided biological monitoring support for my program for nearly five years. Our program is
large and complex, and involves potential impacts to several threatened species. Sequoia is always on top of
it. Sequoia’s project managers are sharp, communicative, and thorough. Their biologists are great with the
crews, and largely due to their guidance we rarely see compliance issues. They are experts on the species we
work with, and leverage their expertise to ensure the least possible risk to them. My project manager
provides prompt weekly updates, and monitoring reports arrive complete and clearly organized. Any
questions and issues that come up with project compliance are communicated promptly and resolved easily.
One of the most impressive things about Sequoia is that the staff are not there merely to provide a service;
staff actively engage in collaborative problem-solving with the client, which has saved my agency money
and time. Their staff are highly qualified scientists, but the best kind of scientists – with a keen eye toward
communication and customer service. I know that my project manager has my project’s best interests at
heart, and I trust them completely. I would recommend Sequoia for any biological compliance project
without hesitation.”
Diablo FireSafe Council
Cheryl Miller, Executive Coordinator
“The team at Sequoia Ecological Consulting was critical to effective hazardous fuel reduction for the North
Orinda Shaded Fuel Break. By having their biologists evaluate sites before work began we could avoid
potential environmental impacts and accelerate the project. Their staff’s expertise continued to guide field
crews throughout the work, giving the whole project team confidence that we could adjust the project to
meet the best management practices and comply with the myriad of environmental requirements, while
reducing the potential of wildfire.”
San Mateo RCD
David Cowman, Forest Ecologist
“I’d like to echo the gratitude for the great communication in addition to the level of flexibility you all have
provided throughout the project. These types of projects are tricky to coordinate with all the moving pieces,
and I greatly appreciate your willingness to send bios when necessary to fill in when our own staff and
County Parks staff weren’t available.”
Docusign Envelope ID: F2CFEC63-4FF8-4B23-A2D6-36853FBAC10FDocusign Envelope ID: C3C88704-33B6-485B-9D22-15DBA66398A5
Sequoia Ecological Consulting, Inc.
Proposal for Town of Los Gatos - Environmental Monitoring Services for
Vegetation Management Risk Reduction Project (Open Space)
37
California State Parks, Bay Area District
Natural Resource Program Environmental Scientist
“Sequoia staff were professional, friendly and flexible, even while working in difficult post-wildfire
environments with a variety of challenges. The assessments and survey methodologies paid exceptional
attention to detail and the resulting deliverables were top notch.”
City of Suisun City Public Works
Nick Lozano, Associate Engineer/Project Manager
“Because my emails and phone calls are promptly returned, I always feel that I am Sequoia’s only client. Our
projects come with their own unique challenges relating to field conditions and permit restrictions, and
Sequoia’s knowledgeable staff has always arrived at feasible and cost-effective solutions that were readily
approved by the City and the regulatory agencies. Sequoia’s staff are well-versed on regulatory permits,
permitting strategy, and how to complete projects in compliance with regulatory requirements.“
Attachment B - Required Forms
Docusign Envelope ID: F2CFEC63-4FF8-4B23-A2D6-36853FBAC10FDocusign Envelope ID: C3C88704-33B6-485B-9D22-15DBA66398A5
Vegetation Management Risk Reduction Project (Open Space) Project Exhibit B – Proposal Forms
CIP 832-4508 / Federal Project No. HMGP DR-4407-506-75R Page B-1
ATTACHMENT B - PROPOSAL FORMS
(To be returned with Proposal. Also See Request for Proposal
Section 6 for Additional Required Information)
PROPOSER
Name:
Address:
1st Contact person (Name):
Title: Office Tel:
Direct/Cell: Fax:
Email:
2nd Contact person (Name):
Title: Office Tel:
Direct/Cell: Fax:
Email:
BUSINESS TYPE:
Proposer, if selected, intends to carry on the business as (check one):
Individual
Joint Venture
Partnership
Corporation
Year incorporated? In what state?
When authorized to do business in California?
Other (explain):
Sequoia Ecological Consulting, Inc.
99 South Almaden Boulevard, Suite 600, San Jose, CA 95113
Debie Montana
CEO and Principal Biologist 925-855-5500
925-989-7011
dmontana@sequoiaeco.com
Kyle Verblaauw
Project Manager 925-855-5500
201-787-1738
kverblaauw@sequoiaeco.com
x
2011 California
2011
Docusign Envelope ID: F2CFEC63-4FF8-4B23-A2D6-36853FBAC10FDocusign Envelope ID: C3C88704-33B6-485B-9D22-15DBA66398A5
Vegetation Management Risk Reduction Project (Open Space) Project Exhibit B – Proposal Forms CIP 832-4508 / Federal Project No. HMGP DR-4407-506-75R Page B-2
ADDENDA
To assure that all Proposers have received each addendum, check the appropriate box(es) below.
Failure to acknowledge receipt of an addendum/addenda may be considered an irregularity in
the Proposal:
Addendum number(s) received (check and initial):
____1
____2
____3
____4
____5
____Other
____No Addendum/Addenda Were Received
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Number of years providing the specified service: ______________________________________
Names and titles of all officers and directors:
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
If an individual or partnership, provide the following information:
Formation date of company: ______________________________________________________
Name and address of all partners, indicating whether they are general or limited partners:
______________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
11
Debie Montana, CEO and Principal Biologist; Bill Montana, Secretary/CFO
Tashi MacMillen, Principal Director - Technical Services; Sarah Blanchfield, Principal Director -
Operations in Management; Melissa Krause, Marketing Director
N/A - S Corporation
N/A - owned 100% by Debie Montana, CEO - 1342 Creekside Drive, Walnut Creek, CA 94596
Docusign Envelope ID: F2CFEC63-4FF8-4B23-A2D6-36853FBAC10FDocusign Envelope ID: C3C88704-33B6-485B-9D22-15DBA66398A5
Vegetation Management Risk Reduction Project (Open Space) Project Exhibit B – Proposal Forms CIP 832-4508 / Federal Project No. HMGP DR-4407-506-75R Page B-3
List the names, titles, and qualifications of the key personnel who will perform work under this
Agreement as well as their roles in relation to the Agreement. Identify the primary biologist to
be designated for the Town. Include their certifications, experience, and training.
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
Indicate whether Proposer has ever failed to complete any Agreement awarded to it. If so, note
when, where, and why. Attach additional sheets, if necessary.
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
Indicate whether Proposer has been or is the subject of a bankruptcy or insolvency proceeding
or subject to assignment for the benefit of creditors.
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
Principal Biologist - Debie Montana.
All resumes are included in the proposal Appendix.
Sequoia has never failed to complete any agreement in its history.
Sequoia has never been the subject of a bankruptcy or insolvency proceeding.
Docusign Envelope ID: F2CFEC63-4FF8-4B23-A2D6-36853FBAC10FDocusign Envelope ID: C3C88704-33B6-485B-9D22-15DBA66398A5
Vegetation Management Risk Reduction Project (Open Space) Project Exhibit B – Proposal Forms CIP 832-4508 / Federal Project No. HMGP DR-4407-506-75R Page B-4
SUBCONTRACTORS
Attached hereto and incorporated herein is the complete and entire list of subcontractors to be
employed by the undersigned in the performance of the work.
Company__________________________________________________________________
Location___________________________________________________________________
Describe work to be contracted_________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
Company__________________________________________________________________
Location___________________________________________________________________
Describe work to be contracted: _______________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
Company__________________________________________________________________
Location___________________________________________________________________
Describe work to be contracted: ________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
Montrose Environmental Group
266 Grand Ave #210, Oakland, CA 94610
Cultural Resources support (if needed)
Docusign Envelope ID: F2CFEC63-4FF8-4B23-A2D6-36853FBAC10FDocusign Envelope ID: C3C88704-33B6-485B-9D22-15DBA66398A5
Vegetation Management Risk Reduction Project (Open Space) Project Exhibit B – Proposal Forms CIP 832-4508 / Federal Project No. HMGP DR-4407-506-75R Page B-5
REFERENCES
List three (3) references for work of a similar nature to the Services performed within the last
five (5) years. References should be from a California municipality, county or a state or federal
agency if possible. Preference will be given for references whose work was similar in scope and
character to the Project.
Reference 1
Name of Agency:
Agency Address:
Contact Name and
Title:
Contact Telephone:
Contact Email:
Contract Amount:
Description of
Services Provided:
Date Services Were
Provided:
Reference 2
Name of Agency:
Agency Address:
Contact Name and
Title:
Contact Telephone:
Contact Email:
Contract Amount:
Moraga-Orinda Fire District
120 Moraga Way, Moraga, CA 94556
Jeff Isaacs, Fire Marshal
(925) 258-4513
jisaacs@mofd.org
Sequoia has provided environmental compliance support to MOFD on its vegetation management and shaded fuel break projects since 2019. Our role has spanned the full process including providing grant application support and mapping, habitat assessments,
project planning, PSA and associated document preparation under the CalVTP, treatment
prescriptions, public outreach, and implementation compliance.
2019 – Present
CAL FIRE
059 Highway 9, Felton, CA 95018
Sarah Collamer, CZU Forester I – VMP
(831) 254-1792 (cell)
Sarah.Collamer@fire.ca.gov
$1,316,268.93 to date
$32,322
Docusign Envelope ID: F2CFEC63-4FF8-4B23-A2D6-36853FBAC10FDocusign Envelope ID: C3C88704-33B6-485B-9D22-15DBA66398A5
Vegetation Management Risk Reduction Project (Open Space) Project Exhibit B – Proposal Forms CIP 832-4508 / Federal Project No. HMGP DR-4407-506-75R Page B-6
Description of
Services Provided:
Date Services Were
Provided:
Reference 3
Name of Agency:
Agency Address:
Contact Name and
Title:
Contact Telephone:
Contact Email:
Contract Amount:
Description of
Services Provided:
Date Services Were
Provided:
RESERVATION
It is understood that the Town reserves the right to reject this Proposal, but that this Proposal
shall not be withdrawn for a period of 45 days from the date prescribed for its opening.
DISCLOSURE
The undersigned declares that this Proposal is not made in the interest of or on behalf of any
undisclosed person, partnership, company, association, organization or corporation; that the
Proposal is genuine and not collusive or sham; that the undersigned has not directly or
indirectly induced or solicited any other Proposer to put in a false or sham Proposal and has not
directly or indirectly colluded or agreed with any Proposer or anyone else to put in a sham
Proposal or to refrain from bidding; that the undersigned has not directly or indirectly sought
by agreement, communication or conference with anyone to fix his/her Proposal price or the
Proposal price of any other Proposer, or to fix any overhead, profit or cost element of such
Proposal price or of that of any other Proposer, or to secure any advantage against the Town of
Sequoia provided focused endangered species and botanical surveys to ensure
environmental compliance in advance of fuel reduction activities and adherence to
CAL FIRE’s Fuel Reduction Avoidance and Minimization Measures (AMMs).
July 2019
San Mateo Resource Conservation District
80 Stone Pine Road, Suite 100 Half Moon Bay, CA 94019
David Cowman, Forest Ecologist
650.712.7765 x 107
david@sanmateorcd.org
Sequoia has supported programmatic vegetation treatment activities for the RCD on an as-needed basis, conducting nesting bird and special-status species surveys, habitat and
tree assessments, bat roosting habitat assessments, and visual searches for woodrat
middens. We recently submitted a PSA for the La Honda Fuel Break project, which
recently started implementation, which Sequoia is monitoring.
June 2021 – Present
$323,471.79 to date
Docusign Envelope ID: F2CFEC63-4FF8-4B23-A2D6-36853FBAC10FDocusign Envelope ID: C3C88704-33B6-485B-9D22-15DBA66398A5
Vegetation Management Risk Reduction Project (Open Space) Project Exhibit B – Proposal Forms CIP 832-4508 / Federal Project No. HMGP DR-4407-506-75R Page B-7
Los Gatos or anyone interested in the proposed Contract; that the only persons or parties
interested in this Proposal as principals are those named herein; that all statements contained
in this Proposal are true; that the undersigned has not directly or indirectly, submitted his/her
Proposal price or any breakdown thereof, or the contents thereof, or divulged information or
data relative thereto, to any other persons, partnership, corporation, or association except to
such person or persons as have a direct financial interest in Proposer’s general business; and
that the undersigned has not accepted any Proposal from any subcontractor or vendor through
any Proposal depository, the Bylaws, Rules or Regulations of which prohibit or prevent the
undersigned from considering any Proposal from any subcontractor or vendor, which is not
processed through said Proposal depository, or which may prevent any subcontractor or
vendor from bidding to any general contractor who does not use the facilities of or accept bids
from or through such Proposal depository; and that the undersigned has not paid, and will not
pay, any fee to any corporation, partnership, company, association, organization, Proposal
depository, or to any member or agent thereof to effectuate a collusive or sham Proposal.
WORDS AND PHRASES
Wherever in this Proposal an amount is stated in both words and figures, in case of discrepancy
between words and figures, the words shall prevail; if all or any portion of the Proposal is
required to be given in unit prices and totals and a discrepancy exists between any such unit
prices and totals so given, the unit prices shall prevail.
CERTIFICATION
The undersigned certifies that the Proposal Documents have been thoroughly read and
understood and that, except as may be specifically noted and contained in addenda, there are
no discrepancies or misunderstandings as to the meaning, purpose or intent of any provision in
the Proposal Documents or as to the interpretation of the same. The undersigned hereby
incorporates by reference, the same as though set out in full, all provisions of Request for Bids
published by the Town and pertaining to the work described in this Proposal.
The names of all persons Interested in the foregoing Proposal as principals are as follows:
____________________________________________________________________________
Important Notice: If Proposer or other interested person is a corporation, give legal name of
corporation, state where incorporated and names of the president and secretary thereof; if a
partnership, give name of the firm, also names of all individual co-partners composing firm; if
Proposer or other interested person is an individual, give first and last names in full.
PROPOSER’S SIGNATURE
No Proposal shall be accepted which has not been signed in ink in the appropriate space below:
Docusign Envelope ID: F2CFEC63-4FF8-4B23-A2D6-36853FBAC10FDocusign Envelope ID: C3C88704-33B6-485B-9D22-15DBA66398A5
Vegetation Management Risk Reduction Project (Open Space) Project Exhibit B – Proposal Forms CIP 832-4508 / Federal Project No. HMGP DR-4407-506-75R Page B-8
By signing below, the submission of a Proposal shall be deemed a representation and
certification by the Proposer that they have investigated all aspects of the RFP, that they are
aware of the applicable facts pertaining to the RFP process, its procedures and requirements,
and they have read and understand the RFP. No request for modification of the Proposal shall
be considered after its submission on the grounds that the Proposer was not fully informed as
to any fact or condition.
(1)If Proposer is INDIVIDUAL,
sign here:
Proposer’s Signature
Proposer’s typed name and title
Date:
(2)If Proposer is PARTNERSHIP or
JOINT VENTURE, at least (2) Partners
or each of the Joint Venturers
shall sign here:
Partnership or Joint Venture Name
(type or print)
Signature
Name of Member of the Partnership or Joint
Venture (type or print)
Date:
Signature
Name of Member of the Partnership or Joint
Venture Name (type or print)
Date:
Docusign Envelope ID: F2CFEC63-4FF8-4B23-A2D6-36853FBAC10FDocusign Envelope ID: C3C88704-33B6-485B-9D22-15DBA66398A5
Vegetation Management Risk Reduction Project (Open Space) Project Exhibit B – Proposal Forms CIP 832-4508 / Federal Project No. HMGP DR-4407-506-75R Page B-9
(3) If Proposer is a CORPORATION,
the duly authorized officer(s) shall
sign as follows:The undersigned certify that they are respectively:
(Title)
and (Title)
of the corporation named below; that they are
designated to sign the Proposal Cost Form by
resolution (attach a certified copy, with corporate
seal, if applicable, notarized as to its authenticity or
Secretary’s certificate of authorization) for and on
behalf of the below named CORPORATION, and that
they are authorized to execute same for and on
behalf of said CORPORATION.
Corporation Name (type or print)
Signature
Name and Title (type or print)
Date:
Signature
Name and Title (type or print)
Date:
Corporation – 2 officer signatures required (one from each group, unless person
signing holds officer positions in both Group 1 and 2):
Group 1: Chief Executive Officer, Chairman of the Board, President, or Vice
President
Group 2: Secretary, Assistant Secretary, Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer,
Assistant Treasurer
Chief Executive Officer
Chief Financial Officer
Sequoia Ecological Consulting, Inc.
Debie Montana, CEO and Principal Biologist
June 27, 2024
Bill Montana, Chief Financial Officer
June 27, 2024
Docusign Envelope ID: F2CFEC63-4FF8-4B23-A2D6-36853FBAC10FDocusign Envelope ID: C3C88704-33B6-485B-9D22-15DBA66398A5
Vegetation Management Risk Reduction Project (Open Space) Project Exhibit B – Proposal Forms CIP 832-4508 / Federal Project No. HMGP DR-4407-506-75R Page B-10
CONFLICT OF INTEREST STATEMENT
This form must be printed out, completed, and submitted with the Bid.
The undersigned declares:
I/We ___________________________ (Insert Name) have the following financial, business, or
other relationship with Town of Los Gatos that may have an impact upon the outcome of the
contract. If none, please specify that no other relationships may have an impact on this contract
or Project.
I/We (Insert Name) have the following current clients who may have a financial interest
in the outcome of this contract. If none, please specify that no other clients may have a financial
interest with an impact on this contract or Project.
Pursuant to Government Code section 1090 and any other laws, rules and regulations that may
apply, the Proposer covenants that neither it, its subcontractors nor employees presently have
an interest, and shall not acquire any interest, direct or indirect, financial or otherwise that would
conflict in any manner or degree with contract awarded from this Request for Bids. Proposer
certifies that to the best of its knowledge, no one who has or will have any financial interest in
the contract awarded from this RFB is an officer or employee of the Town. Through its submittal
of a Bid, Proposer acknowledges that it is familiar with Section 87100 et seq. and Section 1090 et
seq. of the Government Code of the State of California and will immediately notify the Town if it
becomes aware of any facts concerning the contract to be awarded that constitute a violation of
said provisions.
Furthermore, if there is reason to believe that collusion exists among the Proposers, the Town
may refuse to consider Proposals from participants in such collusion. No person, firm, or
corporation under the same or different name, shall make, file, or be interested in more than
one Proposal for the same work unless alternate Proposals are called for. A person, firm, or
corporation who has submitted a sub-proposal to a Proposer, or who has quoted prices on
materials to a Proposer, is not thereby disqualified from submitting a sub-proposal or quoting
prices to other Proposers. Reasonable ground for believing that any Proposer is interested in
more than one Proposal for the same work will cause the rejection of all Proposals for the work
in which a Proposer is interested. If there is reason to believe that collusion exists among the
Proposers, the Town may refuse to consider Proposals from participants in such collusion.
Proposers shall submit as part of their Proposal documents the completed Non-Collusion
Declaration provided herein.
Not Applicable
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Vegetation Management Risk Reduction Project (Open Space) Project Exhibit B – Proposal Forms CIP 832-4508 / Federal Project No. HMGP DR-4407-506-75R Page B-11
I, on behalf of the Proposer, declare under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of
California that the foregoing is true and correct and that this declaration is executed on
_________________ [date], at ___________________[Town], _______________[state].
Proposer Name (Person, Firm, Corp.)
Address
______________________________________________________________________________
Town, State, Zip
_________________________________ ___________________________________
Title of Authorized Representative Name of Authorized Representative
________________ ___________________________________
(Date) (Signed)
June 27, 2024 California
Sequoia Ecological Consulting, Inc.
1342 Creekside Drive Walnut Creek, CA 94596
CEO and Principal Biologist Debie Montana
JUne 27, 2024
Walnut Creek
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BYRD ANTI-LOBBYING AMENDMENT 31 U.S.C. § 1352
(AS AMENDED)
This form must be printed out, completed, and submitted with the Bid.
The undersigned certifies, to the best of his or her knowledge and belief, that:
(1) No Federal appropriated funds have been paid or will be paid, by or on behalf of the
undersigned, to any person for influencing or attempting to influence an officer or
employee of an agency, a Member of Congress, an officer or employee of Congress, or an
employee of a Member of Congress in connection with the awarding of any Federal
contract, the making of any Federal grant, the making of any Federal loan, the entering
into of any cooperative agreement, and the extension, continuation, renewal,
amendment, or modification of any Federal contract, grant, loan, or cooperative
agreement.
(2) If any funds other than Federal appropriated funds have been paid or will be paid to any
person for influencing or attempting to influence an officer or employee of any agency, a
Member of Congress, an officer or employee of Congress, or an employee of a Member
of Congress in connection with this Federal contract, grant, loan, or cooperative
agreement, the undersigned shall complete and submit Standard Form-LLL, “Disclosure
Form to Report Lobbying,” in accordance with its instructions.
(3) The undersigned shall require that the language of this certification be included in the
award documents for all subawards at all tiers (including subcontracts, subgrants, and
contracts under grants, loans, and cooperative agreements) and that all subrecipients
shall certify and disclose accordingly.
This certification is a material representation of fact upon which reliance was placed when this
transaction was made or entered into. Submission of this certification is a prerequisite for
making or entering into this transaction imposed by section 1352, title 31, U.S. Code. Any
person who fails to file the required certification shall be subject to a civil penalty of not less
than $10,000 and not more than $100,000 for each such failure.
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I declare under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California that the foregoing is
true and correct and that this declaration is executed on
________[date], at ______________[Town], ___[state]
By: __________________________________________
Name: __________________________________________
Title: __________________________________________
June 27, 2024 CA
Debie Montana
CEO and Principal Biologist
Walnut Creek
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NON-COLLUSION DECLARATION
This form must be printed out, completed, and submitted with the Bid.
The undersigned declares:
I am the ______________________ [Insert Title] of ____________________________,[Insert
name of company, corporation, LLC, partnership or joint venture] the party making the foregoing
Proposal.
The Proposal is not made in the interest of, or on behalf of, any undisclosed person, partnership,
company, association, organization, or corporation. The Proposal is genuine and not collusive or
sham. The Proposer has not directly or indirectly induced or solicited any other proposer to put
in a false or sham Proposal. The Proposer has not directly or indirectly colluded, conspired,
connived, or agreed with any Proposer or anyone else to put in a sham Proposal, or to refrain
from responding. All statements contained in the Proposal are true.
Any person executing this declaration on behalf of a Proposer that is a corporation, partnership,
joint venture, limited liability company, limited liability partnership, or any other entity, hereby
represents that he or she has full power to execute, and does execute, this declaration on behalf
of the Proposer.
I declare under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California that the foregoing is
true and correct and that this declaration is executed on
________[date], at ______________[Town], ___[state]
By: __________________________________________
Name: __________________________________________
Title: __________________________________________
CEO and Principal Biologist Sequoia Ecological Consulting, Inc.
JUne 27, 2024 CA
Debie Montana
CEO and Principal Biologist
Walnut Creek
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Vegetation Management Risk Reduction Project (Open Space) Project Attachment D – Proposal Price Sheet
CIP 832-4508 / Federal Project No. HMGP DR-4407-506-75R Page D-1
ATTACHMENT D - PROPOSAL PRICE SHEET
The quantities shown on the Proposal forms are approximate only, being given as a basis for the
comparison of Proposals, and the Town does not, expressly or by implication agree that the
actual amount of work will correspond therewith, but reserves the right to increase or decrease
the amount or class or portion of the work as may be deemed necessary or advisable by the
Director of Parks & Public Works. This Proposal will be rejected if Proposer fails to provide a
Proposal for each item.
The Town reserves the right to make a comparison of Proposals based on any combination of the
above alternate Proposal items.
For all services described in the Proposer’s Scope of Services, unless excluded by the Town in
description of services below, the Town shall consider unit prices below to include all labor,
equipment, fees of any kind, overhead, insurance, fuel, materials, surcharges, disposal fees, and
any other costs associated with and necessary for the Proposer to perform such service. No
qualifications, exemptions, or alterations of services described below will be allowed. Failure to
comply will result in disqualification of Proposal.
Proposed Cost Per Task for All Locations
Task Description Cost ($)
Task 1: Meetings and Project Documentation
Task 2: Data Collection and Review
Task 3: Preconstruction Surveys
Task 4: Environmental Awareness Training
Task 5: Field Monitoring of Construction Activities
Task 6: Project Environmental Reporting
TOTAL PROJECT COST
Work will be paid hourly Not to Exceed the values listed above. Proposers must attach a rate
sheet to this Proposal Price Sheet.
$15,585
$2,090
$50,540
$3,529
$76,240
$34,181
$181,165
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SIGNATURE
_____________________________________ ____________________________________
Signature Title
_____________________________________ ____________________________________
Name (printed or typed) Date
_____________________________________ ____________________________________
Telephone Fax
_____________________________________ ____________________________________
Tax ID Number Los Gatos Business License Number
19114593
CEO and Principal Biologist
Debie Montana June 27, 2024
(925) 989-7011
454136627
N/A
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Sequoia Ecological Consulting, Inc.
Proposal for Town of Los Gatos - Environmental Monitoring Services for
Vegetation Management Risk Reduction Project (Open Space)
Resumes
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Debie Montana, M.S., Certified Project Manager
President and Principal Biologist
AREAS OF EXPERTISE
Program and Project
Management
Fuels Management Strategy,
Planning, and
Implementation
CalVTP Implementation
Stakeholder Engagement
Technical Team Development
and Management
EDUCATION
M.S., Biological Sciences with
Concentration in Organismal
Biology, Conservation and
Ecology, San Jose State
University
B.S., Biological Sciences with
Concentration in Conservation
and Organismal Biology, San
Jose State University
Certificate, Project
Management, University of
California, Davis
SELECT TRAININGS
CEQA/NEPA Workshop
Habitat Conservation Planning
and Implementation
Land Use in California
Debie Montana is a Project Management Professional and the President of
Sequoia Ecological Consulting, a small, woman-owned business enterprise. As
President she is responsible for the corporate operation and fulfillment of
contractual obligations for the firm. Since founding Sequoia in 2011, Mrs.
Montana has grown her Company to a full-time staff of 45 qualified biologists,
planners, project managers and regulatory specialists providing large-scale wildfire
mitigation program support, project management, CEQA/NEPA compliance,
CalVTP Support, pre- and post-fire surveys and analysis, and regulatory compliance
support at the state and federal levels Certified in Project Management by the
University of California at Davis, Mrs. Montana oversees large-scale fuels
treatment projects spanning diverse regions and habitats. She serves as Principal-
in-Charge on Sequoia's fuels treatment efforts for numerous Moraga-Orinda Fire
District efforts, as well as planning and implementation of more than 40 projects
for the Marin Wildfire Prevention Authority. She served in the same capacity on
projects including the Caldor Fire Restoration efforts with El Dorado RCD, dozens
of projects under East Bay Regional Park District's Fuel Management Program, and
she also worked closely with the San Mateo County Parks Department and CAL
FIRE to provide focused species and rare plant surveys for fuel reduction activities
covering more than 2,000 acres of park land.
With more than 20 years of experience in the environmental industry, Mrs.
Montana has developed a resume with extensive program management
experience within both the private and public sectors. She oversees complex
environmental compliance efforts that apply her conservation and organismal
biology and fisheries background with her strong an understanding of all aspects
of environmental analysis, and her extensive knowledge of environmental
permitting through federal, state and local agency processes.
As a wildlife biologist, Mrs. Montana has worked on projects and with technical
scientific experts throughout California. Her duties have ranged from authoring
biological assessments and Natural Environmental Studies, to performing resource
management and mitigation plans, to overseeing large-scale fuels treatment,
utility, and development projects spanning regions, a variety of habitats, and
numerous permitting agencies. Mrs. Montana’s main strength is providing
oversight, quality assurance, budget control, schedule adherence, and technical
review on large-scale projects. She has built and managed multi-disciplinary teams
of technical experts, to successfully complete projects across the state.
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RELEVANT EXPERIENCE
San Mateo Resource Conservation District La Honda Fuel Break Project
San Mateo Resource Conservation District (RCD) is preparing to implement the La Honda Shaded Fuel Break, which
constitutes an approximately 19-mile fuel break surrounding the community of La Honda in unincorporated San Mateo
County. Sequoia’s team is designing a CalVTP treatment plan that will balance the needs of the RCD, the La Honda
community, stakeholders, and environmental protection while reducing dense vegetation and ladder fuels to provide
safe access for firefighting personnel and potentially slow the spread of lower-intensity fires. Because portions of the
project area include land outside of the State Responsibility Area (SRA), Sequoia is preparing a Project Specific Analysis
and Addendum to the CalVTP PEIR. Sequoia will support the RCD with implementation of the project by developing
contracting strategies and efficiencies, reviewing contract specifications and work descriptions/orders, and providing
inspection support.
Sonoma County Regional Parks Hood Mountain Regional Park & Open Space Preserve Vegetation
Management Planning for Ecosystem Resilience, Fire Hazard Reduction, and Climate Adaptation
Following heavy impacts to the area by the 2017 Nuns Fire and the 2020 Glass Fire, Sequoia is providing consultant
services for vegetation management planning throughout the 950-acre Hood Mountain Regional Park and Open Space
Preserve. Sequoia performed a thorough review of existing vegetation management documents and past management
activities from the 1990s, and visited the site to complete a current condition assessment. Based on the information
gathered, Sequoia is preparing a draft Vegetation Management Report that integrates prior plans and evaluations, and
includes GIS mapping to prioritize management recommendations. The Vegetation Management Report will undergo
levels of review with stakeholders for input into the final document.
Moraga-Orinda Fire District, Tunnel Hills East Bay Shaded Fuel Break Project
Sequoia provided vegetation mapping services and support for MOFD’s grant application, and we are assisting with
planning and implementation. Permitted under the CalVTP, this project required a Project-Specific Analysis (PSA)
checklist and CalVTP addendum. Sequoia supported MOFD with the PSA process, preparing a full PSA Addendum. We
managed biological and cultural resource assessments, SPR implementation, environmental training for crews,
environmental compliance monitoring, agency coordination, communication with the public, mapping, and contractor
coordination. Protocol-level surveys for sensitive plants and Alameda whipsnake are anticipated, and if needed Sequoia
may also provide protocol or reconnaissance-level surveys for other species, wetland delineations, and agency
coordination. Sequoia conduct detailed preliminary surveys of proposed work areas before commencement of work,
and will also conduct post-treatment surveys of treated areas. The data collected during these surveys will help MOFD to
document permit compliance as well as inform the need for future maintenance work and assess post-treatment fire
risk.
Moraga-Orinda Fire District, North Orinda Shaded Fuel Break Project
Divided into a total of 55 “treatment units”, this 1,900-acre fuel break project employed a variety of specific fuel
management techniques including understory clearing, tree pruning, brush clearing, chipping, mowing, and select tree
removal. Mrs. Montana participated in a series of meetings with Moraga-Orinda Fire Department, members of the
public, and agencies including CAL FIRE, EBMUD, EBRPD, CDFW, and CNPS. Sequoia compiled BMPs to satisfy the
requirements of existing habitat conservation plans, incidental take permits, and biological opinions which had already
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undergone the CEQA process for projects nearby. Sequoia identified suitable Avoidance and Minimization Measures that
would satisfy the existing Habitat Conservation Plan for Fuel Reduction Projects, and the EIR, Biological Opinion and
Wildfire Hazard Mitigation Plan. We collaborated with CDFW and USFWS on field methods, crew training, and biological
monitoring that would be implemented. Sequoia collaborated closely with fire crews to develop fire prescriptions, and
performed permit interpretation and recommendations for communication with USFWS and CDFW. Sequoia also helped
determine the appropriate treatment type (hand tools vs mastication) for various work areas based on quality of habitat
for AWS, legal restrictions of the site (private vs EBMUD vs EBRPD property) and safety/slope concerns.
Diablo Fire Safe Council/Moraga Orinda Fire Department, Canyon Shaded Fuels Break
The Diablo Fire Safe Council provided the Moraga Orinda Fire Department with a grant to conduct fuels thinning
activities in a critical fire break area of Pinehurst Road in Canyon, California. Sequoia was asked to provide biological
services in support of the fuels reduction project including nesting bird surveys in advance of fuels treatment activities,
and consulting services for environmental compliance.
San Mateo County Parks Fuel Break Projects, Huddart and Wunderlich County Parks
San Mateo County Parks is planning on implementing fuels reduction work spanning over 70 acres of chaparral,
redwood forest, and oak woodland habitat starting in 2021. In support of this effort to prepare for forest health
treatments and to avoid impacting sensitive plant species and natural communities within the Project area, Sequoia
assisted the Parks District by performing three rounds of targeted rare plant surveys in both Huddart and Wunderlich
County Parks. Focal species included: Kings Mountain manzanita, western leatherwood, and Michael’s rein orchid.
Georgetown Divide Resource Conservation District Georgetown Fuel Reduction Project
Working collaboratively with the Georgetown Divide Resource Conservation District (GDRCD), Sequoia provided
environmental planning and compliance services for this project which reduced understory ladder and surface fuels by
managing and removing vegetation on and within 200 feet of BLM land in the South Fork American River Watershed.
The project minimizes the risk of wildfire damage to forest resources, communities, and infrastructure in the project
area. Sequoia’s ensured project compliance with the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, Federal Endangered Species Act, and
California Endangered Species Act. Our approved biologists were on-site throughout the project to conduct surveys for
nesting birds, plants, and other sensitive species and resources. The biologists delineated and flagged no-disturbance
buffers wherever the presence of a sensitive/special-status species (e.g., nesting birds, western pond turtle, California
red-legged frog, Yuma myotis, Red Hills soaproot) and/or their nests are detected. Sequoia mapped out the project area
to keep the contractor aware of the locations of any biologically sensitive resources to protect these resources during
project activities.
Caldor Fire Recovery, Forest Restoration Action Plan
The El Dorado County Resource Conservation District (RCD) played a lead role in post-fire recovery effort for area
effected by the Caldor Fire. This pilot project was established to create a scalable, efficient, and effective process for
future use by future fire recovery efforts. Under the Caldor Fire Recovery Plan, Sequoia has been tasked with providing
environmental and cultural compliance to aid in post fire restoration of fire-impacted non-industrial private lands within
the Caldor burn area of El Dorado County. Sequoia has worked closely with the El Dorado Resource Conservation District
to develop appropriate regulatory pathways for various communities affected by the fire. Through a Categorical
Exemption for the Grizzly Flat subdivision, and use of the Cal-VTP PEIR for the remainder of the non-industrial private
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lands, Sequoia has provided project design and management, development of the Categorical Exemption and
implementation of the Cal-VTP PEIR, and environmental compliance surveys and monitoring of protected resources
including (rare plants, aquatic features, California red-legged frog, foothill yellow-legged frog, Sierra Nevada yellow-
legged frog, western pond turtle, great gray owl, California spotted owl).
El Dorado Resource Conservation District-Fire Adapted 50 Phase 1B – Wildland Fire Protection Program
The Fire Adapted 50 Phase IB - Wildland Fire Protection Program is Phase B of a series of projects identified by CAL FIRE,
the U.S. Forest Service, El Dorado Resource Conservation District, and the Georgetown Divide Resource Conservation
District. The project will conduct vegetation treatments on both private and USFS lands designed to interrupt potential
wildfire behavior by reducing the rate of spread and intensity of fire. Sequoia is providing environmental consulting
services to ensure Project compliance with all Federal, State, and local regulations and project permits; including but not
limited CEQA/NEPA compliance (evaluation, surveys, consultations, communications, information exchange, reporting,
monitoring, mapping and document management, etc.).
East Bay Regional Park District’s Wildlife Hazard Reduction Program and Resource Management Plan
Since 2014, Mrs. Montana has worked with the East Bay Regional Park District (EBRPD) on planning and implementation
of their FEMA-funded Wildfire Hazard Reduction and Resource Management Plan. The program extends throughout
more than 40 sites on EBRPD property in Alameda and Contra Costa Counties. Sequoia’s work includes interpretation of
their Biological Opinion, Incidental Take Permit, and Environmental Impact Report. Sequoia worked with the District to
create standard operating procedures for programmatic work, submitting annual reports to USFWS and CDFW, and
coordinates communication and meetings with the District, manages and supervises field activities, performs focused
surveys, conducts environmental training for field and Park personnel, and provides biological monitoring services for
implementation of Avoidance and Minimization Measures during fuels treatment activities.
Marin Wildfire Prevention Authority Environmental Compliance Consulting Services for Wildfire
Prevention/Hazard Mitigation Projects
The Marin Wildfire Prevention Authority is working to permit a large number of fire prevention projects throughout
Marin County. The projects use a wide variety of fuels reduction treatments to achieve their goals, from goat grazing to
creating large fuel breaks using mechanical mastication. Sequoia is providing biological services during planning and
implementation each of the 40-plus projects within the MWPA work plan. Sequoia’s early involvement during the
planning phase allows us to assist in designing projects that avoid environmental impacts and maximize available funds.
As projects are approved and fully permitted, Sequoia biologists assist with specialized surveys including nesting bird
surveys, sensitive plant surveys, invasive species mapping, protocol-level northern spotted owl surveys, and biological
monitoring of work, when required.
CAL FIRE’s Kings Mountain Road and Quarry Park Fuel Reduction Projects
Mrs. Montana oversaw biological support efforts on CAL FIRE’s King’s Mountain Road Fuel Break project in San Mateo
County Parks Department’s Huddart County Park. Sequoia’s technical specialists provided focused endangered species
and botanical surveys ensure AMM compliance in advance of fuel reduction activities and adherence to CAL FIRE’s Fuel
Reduction Avoidance and Minimization Measures. Work included pre-treatment assessments were conducted,
collecting data regarding species cover, composition, and invasive species present. Post-treatment assessments will be
conducted within a year to treatment to determine maintenance intervals for the fuel break.
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Sequoia also provided environmental consulting services to the San Mateo Santa Cruz unit of CAL FIRE for the Quarry
Park Emergency Shaded Fuel Break Project. Sequoia assisted CAL FIRE with special protection measures and potential
operational (biological) constraints. Sequoia’s biologists conducted preliminary surveys of proposed work areas focusing
on the presence of nesting birds, sensitive species and their habitat, existing erosion or signs of other work already
competed, and safety hazards such as wasp nests or access issues.
PG&E’s Wildfire Safety Inspection Program Throughout PG&E Territory
Following the 2017 and 2018 wildfires, PG&E’s Wildfire Safety Inspection Program (WSIP) has been implemented in
addition to routine inspection and maintenance programs, to further reduce wildfire risk. As part of this program, Mrs.
Montana is overseeing permit compliance support, technical studies, endangered and sensitive species studies, surveys,
and data collection, and project reviews at various sites throughout PG&E’s service territory, from Humboldt to
Bakersfield.
U.S. Bureau of Reclamation (USBR) Battle Creek Salmon and Steelhead Restoration Project
Sequoia is currently leading the environmental compliance support team for the Bureau of Reclamation’s Battle Creek
Salmon and Steelhead Restoration Project, which will restore about 48 miles of salmonid habitat. Sequoia is providing
technical expertise to the USBR and is supporting fish and wildlife and regulatory issues. Planning and implementation
includes extensive terrestrial and aquatic surveys, permit reviews and applications, vegetation plans, fish and other
resource management plans, and environmental compliance monitoring and reporting during construction.
Sugarloaf Ridge State Park Post-Wildfire Northern Spotted Owl Surveys
Following the October 2017 wildfires, northern spotted owl surveys were requested at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park to
document owl presence within the park during the 2018 field season. Mrs. Montana oversaw performance of surveys
satisfying the USFWS 1-year protocol requirement. Sequoia biologists conducted a desktop review of prior northern
spotted owl territories and habitat within the park, mapped suitable habitat and placing survey points, and prepared the
year-end survey report and submitting it to State Parks.
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Kyle Verblaauw, MS
Assistant Project Manager | Biologist
AREAS OF EXPERTISE
Biological monitoring
Special-status species surveys
Amphibian dip net surveys
Burrow excavations
Vegetation mapping
EDUCATION
MS, Environmental
Management (Ecology),
University of San Francisco
BA, Environmental Studies
(Biology), University of California Santa Barbara
UC Education Abroad Program,
(Marine Biology and Terrestrial
Ecology), University of
Queensland, Australia
PERMITS/CERTIFICATIONS
USFWS 10(a)(1)(A) Recovery
Permit #ESPER0045160 for
California Tiger Salamander and
California Red-legged Frog
CDFW Scientific Collecting
Permit #S-211500002-21363-
001 and MOU for California
Tiger Salamander, and
California Red-legged Frog
MEMBERSHIPS AND
PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS
The Wildlife Society
Golden Gate Audubon Society
Kyle Verblaauw is an experienced field biologist with more than 9 years of
professional experience. Kyle has extensive monitoring and special-status species
experience within California. While completing a Master’s degree in
Environmental Management at the University of San Francisco, Kyle has worked as
in the consulting industry with experience conducting pre-construction surveys,
seine and dip-net surveys, biological and regulatory compliance monitoring, rare
plant surveys, non-native vegetation mapping, nesting bird surveys, providing
worker environmental awareness training (WEAP), and managing/coordinating
projects.
He has experience working on projects with special-status species including the
California tiger salamander, California red-legged frog, foothill yellow-legged frog,
Alameda whipsnake, salt marsh harvest mouse, western burrowing owl, giant
kangaroo rat, Pacific herring, western snowy plover, San Francisco garter snake,
San Francisco dusky-footed woodrat, nesting birds, and marine mammals. Special
status plant species observed include fountain thistle and Crystal Springs lessingia.
Kyle specializes in California tiger salamander and California red-legged frog work
and has experience implanting PIT tags, conducting/overseeing burrow
excavations, checking pitfall traps, cover boards, and exclusion fences, and
conducting amphibian dip-net surveys. He possesses a USFWS 10(a)1(A) Recovery
Permit for California tiger salamander and California red-legged frog, and a
California SCP and MOU for California tiger salamander. He has also attended
various professional workshops focusing on California red-legged frog, foothill
yellow-legged frog, California tiger salamander, western pond turtle, salt marsh
harvest mouse, western burrowing owl, western snowy plover, Ridgway’s rail,
California least tern, Alameda whipsnake, as well as Pacific herring and salmonids.
RELEVANT EXPERIENCE
Marin Wildfire Prevention Authority (MWPA) – Environmental Services for
Wildfire Prevention/Hazard Mitigation Projects; Marin County, CA
April 2022 - Ongoing
The Marin Wildfire Prevention Authority (MWPA) is working to permit a large
number of fire prevention projects throughout Marin County. The projects use a
wide variety of fuels reduction treatments to achieve their goals, from goat
grazing to creating large fuel breaks using mechanical mastication. Sequoia is
providing biological services during planning and implementation for each of the
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40-plus projects within the MWPA work plan. Sequoia’s biologists conduct literature reviews of biological resources and
field assessments, prepare and present environmental trainings, and provide ongoing specialized expertise to assist the
MWPA. Mr. Verblaauw’s role includes:
Project management and coordination, client communications, coordination of biologists for preconstruction
surveys, nesting bird surveys, and botanical surveys
Develop Biological Resources Report and prepare other deliverables for client
Conducting northern spotted owl survey using call back survey method (1 adult male observed)
Conducting nesting bird, woodrat, and rare plant surveys ahead of vegetation clearing crews
Identified nesting great horned owl, Anna’s hummingbirds (2), and bushtits (2)
San Mateo County Parks, Edgewood Shaded Fuels Break, Redwood City, CA
May 2022 – August 2022
San Mateo County Parks (SMCP) is conducting fuels reduction activities in Edgewood County Park to provide a defensible
space buffer against potential wildfires for nearby homes. As project coordinator for this effort, Mr. Verblaauw’s roles
included:
Providing project support and oversight for field biologists
Quality control and assurance of weekly deliverables
Communications and coordination with Parks staff
Conducting surveys for special status species and nesting birds
San Mateo County Parks, Quarry Park Shaded Fuels Break, El Granada, CA
June 2022 - September 2022
San Mateo County Parks (SMCP) is conducting fuels reduction activities and habitat restoration at Quarry Park. The goal
of the project is to reduce flammable vegetation onsite, including removal of numerous eucalyptus trees and clearing
the understory of dense brush. As the project coordinator for this effort, Mr. Verblaauw’s roles included:
Providing project support and oversight for field biologists
Quality control and assurance of deliverables
Communications and coordination with Parks staff
Conducting pre-activity surveys for San Francisco dusky-footed woodrat, California red-legged frog, and nesting
birds, as well as flagging resources and communicating survey results to crews on the ground
US Bureau of Reclamation - B.F. Sisk Dam SOD Modifications - Phase I; Gustine, CA
August 2022 – Ongoing
The B.F. Sisk Dam Safety of Dams Modification Project is a joint venture by the United States Bureau of Reclamation
(BOR) and California Department of Water Resources (DWR). Sequoia is contracted by NW Construction and the BOR to
provide environmental compliance support during Phase 1 of the B.F. Sisk Dam Safety of Dams Modification Project,
which will improve public safety by increasing the height of the dam and adding stability berms and other safety
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features to reduce the likelihood of the dam overtopping during an earthquake. Our role involves special-status species
monitoring and surveys, burrow excavation, and management of the tule elk herd present onsite. Species known to
occur or with potential to occur on the project include tule elk, San Joaquin kit fox, California tiger salamander, California
red-legged frog, American badger, burrowing owl, Swainson’s hawk, and bald eagle. Mr. Verblaauw’s roles include:
Conduct monthly CRLF visual encounter surveys (day and night) in occupied CRLF habitat within the Project area
Conducting exclusion fence checks for CTS and CRLF
Surveying for suitable burrow habitat for SJKF and CTS
Maintenance on Thule elk camera traps
Monitoring construction activities
East Bay Regional Park District McCosker Sub-Area Creek Restoration and Recreational Improvements
Project; Montclair, CA
August 2020 - Ongoing
The East Bay Regional Park District has been restoring ecological function to two existing culverted creeks in the
McCosker sub-area of Sibley Regional Park. Working under a CDFW Incidental Take Permit (No. 2081-2018-070-03),
USFWS Biological Opinion (#08ESMF00-2019-F-015), USACE and RWQCB 401/404 permits, and CDFW 1600 Lake and
Streambed Alteration Agreement. Mr. Verblaauw’s duties include:
Conducting long-term vegetation monitoring to determine success of restoration plantings
Conducting biological monitoring work activities for special-status species: nesting birds and raptors, Alameda
whipsnake, California red-legged frog, and San Francisco dusky-footed woodrat
Developing the 2022 annual status report summarizing covered project activities and describing project
compliance with permits
Bourdet Ranch Conservation Banking; Santa Clara County, CA
May 2023 - Present
Sequoia Ecological Consulting, Inc. is assisting the Bourdet Family to establish a conservation bank on their 3,354-acre
property in Santa Clara County, CA. Sequoia is tasked with all necessary biological surveys to determine
absence/presence of listed species within the property, including pond sampling for California tiger salamander and
California red-legged frog. Once biological resources are evaluated, Sequoia is conducting a bank feasibility analysis and
designing the conservation bank. Sequoia is directly coordinating with the agencies on behalf of the Bourdet family and
drafting all required documents for establishing a conservation bank including a draft prospectus, prospectus, and
additional documents based on agency evaluation of resources on-site. Mr. Verblaauw supported this project by:
Performing aquatic surveys for amphibian surveys, including California tiger salamander and California red-
legged frog
Performing eDNA sampling for CTS and CRLF
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Upper Llagas Creek Flood Protection Project; Gilroy, San Martin, and Morgan Hill, CA
September 2019 - Ongoing
Under contract with the Santa Clara Valley Water District, several contractors are conducting channel improvements on
existing creek reaches and constructing new creek channels to reduce or prevent flooding during major storm events.
Sequoia has performed work for the contractor as well as owner to assist in meeting habitat preservation, restoration,
and improvement goals as stipulated by the project plan. Kyle’s responsibilities include:
Conducting pre-construction surveys and construction monitoring for nesting birds, and general special-status
species under CDFW and USFWS permits.
Identifying habitats and suitable breeding locations for federally and state special-status species
Monitoring turbidity, dissolved oxygen, temperature, pH, and erosion within the watercourses
Special-status species: California red-legged frog, California tiger salamander, western pond turtle
San Mateo County Parks, Sawyer Camp Trail Culvert Replacement Project, San Mateo County, CA
July 2022 - September 2022
San Mateo County Parks (SMCP) is replacing 16 failed or badly degraded culverts along the Sawyer Camp Trail near the
Crystal Springs Reservoir. Prior to construction implementation, special-status species surveys are required, including
surveys for: nesting birds, San Francisco dusky-footed woodrat, California red-legged frog, San Francisco garter snake,
and western leatherwood. Biological monitoring during all ground-disturbing activities is also required. Mr. Verblaauw
supported SMCP on this project as Sequoia’s project coordinator by:
Providing project support and oversight for field biologists
Quality control and assurance of deliverables
Communications and coordination with Parks staff
Conducted biological monitoring
East Bay Regional Park District Routine Maintenance Projects; Alameda and Contra Costa Counties, CA
September 2020 – Ongoing
Sequoia Ecological is supporting EBRPD with an on-call contract to conduct pre-activity surveys, water quality
monitoring, and biological compliance monitoring for routine maintenance projects under their regulatory permits.
Species to be avoided include: Alameda whipsnake, California red-legged frog, California tiger salamander, giant garter
snake, Ridgway’s rail, California least tern, salt marsh harvest mouse, San Joaquin kit fox, vernal pool branchiopods,
snowy plover, pallid manzanita, nesting birds, and San Francisco dusky-footed woodrat. Mr. Verblaauw’s duties
included:
Providing environmental awareness training to construction crews
Conducting nesting bird surveys and preconstruction surveys for special status species
Biological monitoring during work activities and ensuring project’s compliance with regulatory permits
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Will Johnson
Climate Resiliency and Restoration Program Manager
AREAS OF EXPERTISE
Restoration
Construction management &
QA/QC
Invasive Plant Management
Planning & Implementation
Natural Resource
Management & Monitoring
Mitigation Planning
Compliance Management
Plant/Wildlife Surveys
EDUCATION
MS, Biological Sciences,
University of Rhode Island
BS, Biological Sciences,
University of Rhode Island
PERMITS/CERTIFICATIONS
California Contractors State
License Board – C-27 Landscape
Construction License, 1086577,
exp. 2026
California Department of
Pesticide Regulation – Qualified
Applicator License, 162032,
exp. 12/2024
Will Johnson has 16 years of experience in habitat restoration, mitigation
planning, inspection and compliance support, natural resource monitoring, and
both project and program-level administration and management. Mr. Johnson has
provided services on a variety of projects throughout northern California for the
past 10 years. He has worked as a field biologist, site superintendent, manager,
crew leader, and equipment operator. He has extensive experience in reviewing
and implementing work from proposal phase to closeout based on standard
specifications, plans and permit requirements. Mr. Johnson has authored site
management and long-term maintenance plans, cost proposals, budgets, technical
write-ups and project approaches. He has both partnered with and contracted for
a diverse number of clients including County, State, Federal-level groups as well as
consulting firms, non-profit organizations, special districts, and private
landowners.
Mr. Johnson has conducted project work in the vicinity of numerous special status
species including California Ridgway’s rail, California black rail, salt marsh harvest
mouse, San Francisco garter snake, giant garter snake, California red-legged frog,
and California tiger salamander. Mr. Johnson has conducted rare plant surveys
and managed projects which had the following species: western burrowing owl,
Swainson’s hawk, northern goshawk, golden eagle, foothill yellow-legged frog,
Alameda whipsnake, western pond turtle, dusky-footed woodrat.
RELEVANT EXPERIENCE
Mount Tamalpais Fuel Reduction (Various Phases); Mill Valley, CA
2020 - 2023
Mr. Johnson supported Marin Municipal Water District (MMWD) in implementing
various fire fuel reduction work, including understory mastication, and hand-crew
clearing and thinning work. The work fell under MMWD’s Biodiversity, Fire, and
Fuels Integrated Plan (BFFIP). Crews worked in and around sensitive watershed
areas and habitat. The entirety of the project was located in steep, wildland
terrain. Mr. Johnson served as the project manager.
Developed cost proposal and technical approach to various restoration
activities
Oversaw crew logistics and scheduling
Performed project management and coordination with consultants
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Quarry Park Shaded Fuel Break; El Granada, CA
2023
Mr. Johnson supported San Mateo County Parks (SMCP) in implementing fuels reduction, including removing eucalyptus
trees and understory vegetation. The work occurred in and around habitat for San Francisco dusky-footed woodrat,
California red-legged frog, and nesting birds. Mr. Johnson served as the project manager (contractor).
Developed cost proposal and technical approach to construction
Oversaw crew logistics and scheduling
Performed project management and coordination with consultants
Green Oaks Restoration; Pescadero, CA
2023
San Mateo County Resource Conservation District (SMCRCD) worked in conjunction with California State Parks to
implement a riparian and grassland drainage restoration project. The project included site preparation, grading, log
placement, spoils management, and revegetation post equipment work. Mr. Johnson was the project manager for
construction (contractor).
Developed cost proposal and technical approach to restoration and maintenance
Oversaw crew logistics and scheduling
Performed project management and coordination with consultants
Kitteridge Wetland Restoration; Los Gatos, CA
2023
Mr. Johnson worked to support the restoration of a retention pond drainage feature for San Jose Water Company
(SJWC). The creation of wetlands at Lake Kittredge was designed to provide habitat for California red-legged frogs,
western pond turtles, and nesting olive-sided flycatchers. The scope included re-grading and earthmoving of seasonally
flooded depressions, channels and general re-contouring, followed by revegetation and re-seeding of stabilized areas.
Will oversaw construction activities and worked with the client to develop approaches to work, erosion control and re-
seeding efforts. Mr. Johnson was the project manager for construction (contractor).
Developed cost proposal and technical approach to construction
Oversaw crew logistics and scheduling
Performed project management and coordination with consultants
Arroyo de la Laguna Creek Restoration; Pleasanton, CA
2022 – 2023
The City of Pleasanton’s Arroyo de la Laguna project included site preparation, invasive plant management, restoration
planting and long-term maintenance. Mr. Johnson served as the project manager for construction (contractor) and
worked alongside Sequoia (consultant).
Developed cost proposal and technical approach to restoration
Coordinated with City and consulting biologist
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Performed project management and permit compliance
San Rafael Creek Restoration & Maintenance; San Rafael, CA
2021 - 2023
Sonoma Marin Area Rail Transit’s (SMART) San Rafael Creek project included site preparation, invasive plant
management, restoration planting and long-term maintenance. Mr. Johnson served as the project manager for
construction (contractor) and worked alongside Sequoia (consultant).
Developed cost proposal and technical approach to restoration
Coordinated with SMART and consulting biologist
Performed project management and permit compliance
McCosker Creek Restoration and Improvements; Orinda, CA
2022 - 2023
East Bay Regional Park District’s (EBRPD) McCosker Creek project included invasive plant management and long-term
maintenance of native plants and site infrastructure. Mr. Johnson served as the project manager for maintenance
(contractor) and worked alongside Sequoia (consultant).
Oversaw crew logistics and scheduling
Coordinated with EBRPD and consulting biologist
Performed project management and permit compliance
Special-status species: nesting birds and raptors, Alameda whipsnake, California red-legged frog, and San
Francisco dusky-footed woodrat
Bioregional Habitat Restoration; Sunol, CA
2017 - 2023
San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC) manages watershed areas throughout Alameda County. The project
included several years of invasive plant management in wildland areas. Treatments were targeted to support native
plant establishment and achieve SFPUC’s mitigation and management objectives. Work occurred in and around areas
with sensitive species. Mr. Johnson served as a project manager.
Developed cost proposal and technical approach to restoration and maintenance
Oversaw crew logistics and scheduling
Performed project management and coordination with consultants
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NASA Ames Research Center Wetland Restoration & Mitigation; Santa Clara, CA
2018
As part of mitigation, NASA was required to investigate soils at a site at Moffett Field in Santa Clara County. Mr. Johnson
led a construction team that provided native habitat and erosion control services to a consulting firm for the duration of
the soil investigation across the several acre site. The project scope included brush and vegetation clearing ahead of
drilling/soil sampling; silt/exclusion fence installation, maintenance and removal; harvesting and transplanting wetland
and marsh plant species including pickleweed and saltgrass; hydroseeding and hand-broadcast seeding of native
lowland, upland and transitional marsh species; hand-watering and non-chemical weed control to facilitate plant
establishment.
Developed cost proposal and technical approach to construction and invasive plant work
Oversaw crew logistics and scheduling
Performed project management and coordination with consultants
On-Call Restoration & Maintenance; Various East Bay Regional Park properties, CA
2022 - 2023
Mr. Johnson supported East Bay Regional Park District (EBRPD) in implementing various stages of restoration and
construction work at several different park units/locations. Work included invasive plant management, erosion control,
site maintenance, irrigation troubleshooting and repair, and fence building. Mr. Johnson served as the project manager
and lead contract point of contact for all on-call task orders.
Developed cost proposal and technical approach to various restoration activities
Oversaw crew logistics and scheduling
Performed project management and coordination with consultants
Tilden Nature Area Restoration; Berkeley, CA
2018-2023
Mr. Johnson supported East Bay Regional Park District (EBRPD) in restoring pond features, installing native riparian
vegetation, constructing trails, fencelines and park amphitheater. Work occurred in and around sensitive creek habitat.
Project included 5 years of follow-up maintenance and stewardship of the site. Mr. Johnson served as the project
manager (contractor).
Developed cost proposal and technical approach to construction
Oversaw crew logistics and scheduling
Performed project management and coordination with consultants
Docusign Envelope ID: F2CFEC63-4FF8-4B23-A2D6-36853FBAC10FDocusign Envelope ID: C3C88704-33B6-485B-9D22-15DBA66398A5
Kelyn McGuire
Staff Biologist
AREAS OF EXPERTISE
Nesting bird surveys
Biological monitoring
Pre-construction surveys
EDUCATION
BA Environmental Studies
(Anthropology), University of
California, Santa Barbara
UC Education Abroad Program,
(Anthropology) University of
Edinburgh, Scotland
MEMBERSHIPS AND
PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS
The Wildlife Society
Golden Gate Audubon Society
Kelyn McGuire is an enthusiastic biologist with more than a year of experience.
Kelyn has experience conducting nesting bird surveys and special-status species
surveys for California tiger salamander, California red-legged frog, Alameda
whipsnake, western pond turtle, San Francisco dusky-footed woodrat. She has
assisted in rare plant surveys under the supervision of a senior botanist. Kelyn also
has performed California spotted owl surveys under the direction of experienced
biologists. She has also assisted with bumble bee surveys under the guidance of a
permitted biologist. Kelyn has experience performing pre-construction surveys,
daily biological monitoring, and delivering environmental awareness trainings.
RELEVANT EXPERIENCE
Moraga Orinda Fire District, Tunnel East Bay Hills Fuel Break; Orinda, CA
April 2023 – Ongoing
The Moraga-Orinda Fire District is conducting a fuels reduction project along key
access roads in the cities of Moraga and Orinda, CA to minimize the impact of
wildfires on local communities by developing fuel breaks and keep roads
accessible for evacuation and emergency response. Sequoia is providing biological
support on the project to ensure environmental compliance with the fuels
reduction work. In support of this project, Kelyn’s role has included:
Conduct pre-construction surveys for special-status species: California
tiger salamander, California red-legged frog, western pond turtle,
Alameda whipsnake, San Francisco dusky-footed woodrat
Perform pre-treatment surveys prior to work being done
Environmentally train fuel reduction crews regarding sensitive species
in a high-risk work environment
Monitor and provide insight to work crews to preserve sensitive
species habitat such as core-scrub for Alameda whipsnake and nesting
birds
Carrying out rare plant surveys under the supervision of Senior
Botanists
Providing active monitoring during all pile burning done by fire
officials
Set up trail cameras to track animal activity and behaviors
Place coverboards outside of the project area to provide refuge
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Special-status species: Western pond turtle, California red-legged frog, California tiger salamander, Alameda
whipsnake, San Francisco dusky-footed woodrat, Northern spotted owl
Contra Costa County Fire Protection District (ConFire) - Lafayette/Walnut Creek Shaded Fuel Break, Contra
Costa County, CA
May 2023 – Ongoing
This shaded fuel break project extends about 7 miles surrounding the community of Rossmoor and is expected to treat
approx. 250 acres through the reduction of dense vegetation and removal of ladder fuels. Sequoia is providing
reconnaissance and plant surveys ahead of vegetation removal, then daily monitoring during implementation. Kelyn’s
responsibilities as lead biologist include:
Helped project kickoff by conducting environmental training for all working crew members
Executed pre-treatment surveys of all project areas before commencement of any work
Organized pre and post treatment
Managed project coordination and assisted project manager with scheduling, client communication and
daily/weekly reporting
Accompanied Senior Biologist on bumble bee surveys targeting sensitive bumble bee species
Maintained strong communication between client, crew and Sequoia staff
Conduct daily pre-construction surveys for special status species ahead of days work
Recording and mapping rare plant sensitive vegetation communities
Performed reconnaissance surveys prior to implementation phase
Special-status species: Alameda whipsnake, California red-legged frog, California tiger salamander, San Francisco
dusky-footed woodrat, western pond turtle, Crotch’s bumble bee, California newt, sensitive bat species
Marin Wildfire Prevention Authority (MWPA) –Environmental Services for Wildfire Prevention/Hazard
Mitigation Projects, Marin County, CA
April 2023 – Ongoing
The Marin Wildfire Prevention Authority (MWPA) is working to permit a large number of fire prevention projects
throughout Marin County. The projects use a wide variety of fuels reduction treatments to achieve their goals, from goat
grazing to creating large fuel breaks using mechanical mastication. Sequoia is providing biological services during planning
and implementation each of the 40-plus projects within the MWPA work plan. Sequoia’s biologists conduct literature
reviews of biological resources and field assessments, prepare and present environmental trainings, and provide ongoing
specialized expertise to assist the MWPA. Kelyn’s role included:
Performing pre-activity surveys for special-status wildlife and plants, as well as nesting birds
Setting up acoustic monitors to record bird activity
Analyzing acoustic monitor data and providing concise data collection for the client
Conducting nesting bird surveys
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Special- status species: Northern spotted owl, California red-legged frog, foothill yellow-legged, Ridgway’s rail,
black rail, burrowing owl, Western snowy plover, salt marsh harvest mouse, Western bumblebee, monarch
butterfly, anadromous fish, various sensitive bat species
Bourdet Ranch Conservation Banking; Santa Clara County, CA
April 2024
Sequoia Ecological Consulting, Inc. is assisting the Bourdet Family to establish a conservation bank on their 3,354-acre
property in Santa Clara County, CA. Sequoia is tasked with all necessary biological surveys to determine
absence/presence of listed species within the property, including pond sampling for California tiger salamander and
California red-legged frog and special-status bumble bees. Once biological resources are evaluated, Sequoia is
conducting a bank feasibility analysis and designing the conservation bank. Sequoia is directly coordinating with the
agencies on behalf of the Bourdet family and drafting all required documents for establishing a conservation bank
including a draft prospectus, prospectus, and additional documents based on agency evaluation of resources on-site.
Kelyn supported this project by:
Field assistant for protocol level surveys for candidate bumble bee species (Crotch’s bumble bee)
Safe handling, catch and release of crotch’s bumble bee and other bumble bee species
Successfully identifying Crotch’s bumble bee and other bumble bee species
Assisting in data and mapping management
California State Parks, Mt. Diablo State Park Vegetation Treatment, Pretreatment Biological Surveys and
Monitoring; Contra Costa County, CA
April 2023 – May 2023
The Mt. Diablo State Park Vegetation Treatment project involves Cal State Parks identifying key areas in the park that
are at risk for wildfires. Multiple different vegetation removal companies are subcontracted to reduce fuel debris that
can pose a risk incidents of fire outbreaks. Sequoia biologists provide pretreatment surveys to identify rare plants,
special status species, and nesting birds to ensure that fuel removal is within environmental compliance. Kelyn’s duties
include:
Providing pre-construction surveys for special status species and nesting birds
Identifying habitat that can be suitable for special status species such as California red-legged Frog, Western
Pond Turtle and Alameda whipsnake
Providing biological monitoring and reporting
Mariposa Peak Ranch Long-Term Management; Merced and Santa Clara Counties, CA
April – May 2024
Sequoia Ecological Consulting is working to establish a conservation easement for Caltrans and a residential
development project on private land near Gilroy in order to offset impacts to California tiger salamander and California
red-legged frog. Kelyn’s responsibilities on this project included:
Assisting permitted biologists with pond sampling surveys for California red-legged frogs and California tiger
salamanders
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Aiding in eDNA collection from each pond
Taking measurements and data collection of California red-legged frog and California tiger salamanders
Conducting visual encounter surveys for western pond turtle, California red-legged frog, California tiger
salamander and bullfrogs
Perform VES eye-shine surveys for bullfrogs
Use dip net and seine net for protocol level surveys for special-status species
Anderson Dam Tunnel Water Quality Monitoring; Morgan Hill, CA
October 2023 – Ongoing
This project includes environmental compliance and biological support for heavy civil construction in habitat suitable for
several sensitive animal species. Under federal compliance orders, multiple regulatory agency permitting and technical
recommendations, and under the Santa Clara Valley Habitat Conservation Plan/Natural Community Conservation Plan,
Kelyn is responsible for:
Performing biological monitoring
Collecting water-quality data from Multi-Parameter Sondes located at different sites both upstream and
downstream from the project location
Ensuring proper equipment maintenance and calibration to acquire high quality data
Providing daily monitoring summaries to project managers
Special-status species: California tiger salamander, California red-legged frog, western pond turtle, steelhead,
coyote ceanothus, nesting birds, golden eagle, bald eagle, pallid bat
California State Parks, Northgate Road Emergency Repair Project; Contra Costa County, CA
June 2023 – October 2023
Mount Diablo State Park is conducting emergency repair work for culvert and road failures within the park. As a
subconsultant to ECORP, Sequoia is providing biological and compliance support for project implementation, including
pre-construction surveys for rare plants and biological monitoring during ground-disturbing activities. Species monitored
during this project include Alameda whipsnake, California red-legged frog, California tiger salamander, Peregrine falcon
and nesting birds. Kelyn supported this project by:
Providing biological monitoring and reporting to crews
Providing environmental training for crews
Special-status species: California tiger salamander, California red-legged frog, Alameda whipsnake, Peregrine
falcon, nesting birds, rare plants.
Docusign Envelope ID: F2CFEC63-4FF8-4B23-A2D6-36853FBAC10FDocusign Envelope ID: C3C88704-33B6-485B-9D22-15DBA66398A5
Nicolas Anderson
Biologist / Assistant Project Manager
AREAS OF EXPERTISE
Biological surveys
Habitat restoration
Construction monitoring
Forestry management
EDUCATION
BS, Fisheries, Wildlife, and
Conservation Biology,
University of Minnesota –
Twin Cities
PERMITS/CERTIFICATIONS
Wildland Firefighter Type II
National Pollutant Discharge
Elimination System (NPDES)
Construction Stormwater
Inspector
Nicolas Anderson has 5 years of experience in wildlife and vegetation surveys,
habitat restoration, construction monitoring, forestry management, and
geographic information systems (GIS). His surveying experience includes point-
count, mark-recapture for small mammals and fish, electrofishing, mist netting,
spotlight, dip netting, seining, hoop netting, telemetry, and herpetological surveys
for wetland index of biological integrity (IBI) assessments.
Nic’s threatened and endangered (T&E) biological surveys conducted in the
Midwest, Southeast U.S., and California include but are not limited to western pond
turtle, California red-legged frog, Indiana bat, Henslow’s sparrow, loggerhead sea
turtle, northern long-eared bat, greater prairie-chicken, loggerhead shrike, bald
eagle, Karner blue butterfly, Dakota skipper, and southern bog lemming.
Additionally, his T&E vegetation surveys have included but are not limited to
beaked spikerush, slender rush, sterile sedge, western prairie fringed orchid,
whorled nutrush, and stream parsnip.
RELEVANT EXPERIENCE
Marin Wildfire Prevention Authority, Environmental Compliance
Consulting Services for Wildfire Prevention/ Hazard Mitigation Projects;
Marin County, CA
October 2022 – Ongoing
The Marin Wildfire Prevention Authority (MWPA) is working to permit numerous
fire prevention projects throughout Marin County. The projects use a wide variety
of fuels reduction treatments to achieve their goals, from goat grazing to creating
large fuel breaks using mechanical mastication. Sequoia is providing biological
services during the planning and implementation on upwards of 40 projects within
the MWPA work plan. Sequoia’s biologists conduct literature reviews of biological
resources and field assessments, prepare and present environmental trainings,
and provide ongoing specialized expertise to assist the MWPA. Mr. Anderson’s
role included:
Performing GIS services to provide detailed figures for project
management and planning - GIS analyses include, but are not limited to,
determining total impacts per vegetation community, proximity and
impact analyses on T&E wildlife, plants, and critical habitats, impacts to
aquatic habitats, summaries of soil characteristics within project
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boundaries and surrounding areas, and depiction of on-the-ground environmental observations
Managing and updating GIS databases
Special- status species: Northern spotted owl, California red-legged frog, foothill yellow-legged, Ridgway’s rail,
black rail, burrowing owl, Western snowy plover, salt marsh harvest mouse, Western bumblebee, monarch
butterfly, anadromous fish, various sensitive bat species
Moraga-Orinda Fire District, Tunnel East Bay Hills Fuel Break Project; Orinda, CA
October 2022 – Ongoing
The Moraga-Orinda Fire District (MOFD) is conducting a fuels reduction project within Contra Costa County to create
large fuel breaks to reduce impacts from wildfire events. To assist with the implementation of this project, Nic is
responsible for:
Performing GIS services to provide detailed figures for project management and planning. GIS analyses include,
but are not limited to, determining total impacts per vegetation community, proximity and impact analyses on
T&E wildlife, plants, and critical habitats, impacts to aquatic habitats, summaries of soil characteristics within
project boundaries and surrounding areas, and depiction of on-the-ground environmental observations
Managing and updating GIS databases
San Mateo County Parks, Edgewood Shaded Fuel Break; Redwood City, CA
June 2022
In support of San Mateo County Parks in this fuel break project, Nic was responsible for:
Performing pre-construction surveys for special-status species and nesting birds
Conducting biological monitoring during work activities for nesting birds
Assisting with daily routine data collection and work activity summaries
Special-status species: California tiger salamander, California red-legged frog, Western pond turtle, Alameda
whipsnake, San Francisco dusky-footed woodrat
Anderson Dam Tunnel Water Quality Monitoring; San Jose, CA
April 2023 – Ongoing
This project includes environmental compliance and biological support for heavy civil construction in habitat suitable for
several sensitive animal species. Under federal compliance orders, multiple regulatory agency permitting and technical
recommendations, and under the Santa Clara Valley Habitat Conservation Plan/Natural Community Conservation Plan,
Nic is responsible for:
Performing pre-construction surveys for biological resources
Collecting water-quality data from MultiParameter Sondes located at different sites both upstream and
downstream from the project location
Ensuring proper equipment maintenance and calibration to acquire high quality data
Performing biological monitoring of sensitive habitats and species during construction when required by permits
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Providing daily monitoring summaries to project managers
Creating master Excel sheets to process collected water quality data for compliance evaluation
Writing soil sample reuse and monthly project update reports for client
Special-status species: California tiger salamander, California red-legged frog, Western pond turtle, DPS
steelhead, coyote ceanothus, nesting birds, golden eagle, bald eagle, pallid bat
San Mateo County Parks Department, Sawyer Camp Trail Culvert Replacement; Burlingame, CA
August 2022 – Ongoing
Supporting San Mateo County Parks for this culvert replacement project, Nic is responsible for:
Conducting pre-construction surveys for special-status species and nesting birds
Monitoring construction activities to ensure minimal impacts to special-status species and their habitats
Inspecting finalized work sites to ensure proper escape pathways for wildlife trapped in trenched areas
Conducting biological monitoring during work activities for nesting birds and special-status species
Completing daily routine data collection and work activity summaries
Special-status species: western pond turtle, San Francisco dusky-footed woodrat, California red-legged frog, San
Francisco garter snake
Valley Water, Cross Valley Pipeline Extension Project Fish Rescue; Coyote, CA
August 2022
In support of this pipeline extension project, Nic was responsible for:
Performing electrofishing surveys within the project area to minimize construction activity impacts on fish
populations
Identifying native fish species for relocation and invasive species for inventory
Assisting with daily monitoring reports and data collection
Special-status species: San Francisco dusky-footed woodrat, American badger, California red-legged frog,
California tiger salamander, Western pond turtle, roosting bats
City of San Jose, Storm Drain System Improvements; San Jose, CA
July 2022
Contributing to improvements in this storm drain project, Nic was responsible for:
Conducting worker environmental awareness program (WEAP) training for incoming contractors to identify
special-status species (specifically Western burrowing owls) within the prospective project area
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Valley Water, Upper Llagas Creek Flood Protection Project Phase 2A; Morgan Hill, CA
June 2022
Under contract with the Santa Clara Valley Water District, several contractors are conducting channel improvements on
existing creek reaches and constructing new creek channels to reduce or prevent flooding during major storm events.
Sequoia has performed work for the contractor as well as owner to assist in meeting habitat preservation, restoration,
and improvement goals as stipulated by the project plan. Nic’s responsibilities include:
Conducting pre-construction surveys and construction monitoring for nesting birds, and general special-status
species under CDFW and USFWS permits
Identifying habitats and suitable breeding locations for federally and state special-status species
Monitoring turbidity, dissolved oxygen, temperature, pH, and erosion within the watercourses
Special-status species: California red-legged frog, California tiger salamander, Western pond turtle
TRAININGS/CERTIFICATIONS
Storm Water Best Management Practices, Sequoia Ecological Consulting, 2022
Nesting Bird Ecology and Survey Practices, Sequoia Ecological Consulting, 2022
Identification of Hydraulic Features, Sequoia Ecological Consulting, 2022
Alameda Whipsnake Ecology and Identification, Sequoia Ecological Consulting, 2022
Construction Stormwater Inspector, National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System, 2020
Rosgen Level 1 Principles of Fluvial Geomorphology, 5 Smooth Stones, LLC, 2019
RiverMorph, 5 Smooth Stones, LLC, 2019
AutoCAD Civil 3D for Stream Restoration, 5 Smooth Stones, LLC, 2019
Culvert Design for Stream Connectivity and Aquatic Organism Passage, University of Minnesota – Twin Cities, 2019
S-130 Firefighter Training, S-190 Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior, L-180 Human Factors in the Wildland Fire
Service, and IS-100 Introduction to Incident Command System, Wildland Firefighter Type II (FFT2), National Wildfire
Coordinating Group, 2018
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Brian Nissen
Project Biologist
AREAS OF EXPERTISE
Field identification of
California flora and fauna
Ecological restoration project
oversight
Land management
Regulatory permitting
EDUCATION
BS, Natural Resources, Fisheries
and Wildlife Science, Oregon
State University
PERMITS/CERTIFICATIONS
10(a)(1)(A) Recovery Permit
(PER0011950), California tiger
salamander, California red-
legged frog
CDFW Scientific Collection
Permit (SC-190180001)
Brian Nissen is a restoration ecologist and field biologist with more than 6 years of
professional experience working with private industry consulting, federal and
state agencies compliance, and volunteer research projects. Brian has experience
providing permit oversight as well leading numerous ecological restoration
projects biological surveys across the greater San Francisco Bay Area including
special status species mitigation, riparian, oak woodland and savannah, and
grassland habitats restoration.
Skilled background in restoration ecology, land management, and rangeland
management/ecology. Areas of knowledge and expertise include restoration
project design, implementation, and upkeep, invasive plant management, native
plant propagation and establishment, grazing and mow regime management and
establishment, and irrigation systems.
Mr. Nissen holds 10(a)(1)(A) permits for conducting presence/absence surveys for
both California tiger salamander and California red-legged frog in Marin, Sonoma,
Lake, Napa, Solano, Contra Costa, Alameda, Santa Clara and San Mateo counties.
Additionally, Brian has extensive experience conducting biological monitoring for
these two species on construction projects across the greater Bay Area.
In addition to working with the California tiger salamander and California red-
legged frog Mr. Nissen has experience conducting surveys and working with other
special-status species including: nesting birds and raptors, burrowing owl,
Swainson’s hawk, western pond turtle, San Francisco dusky-footed woodrat, fairy
shrimp, giant garter snake, Alameda whipsnake, and San Joaquin kit fox.
Experience with rare plants includes Santa Cruz robust spineflower, Congdons
tarplant, San Joaquin spearscale, and Santa Clara dudleya.
Mr. Nissen has 100+ hours of passerine banding experience using mist nets at the
Coyote Creek Field Station with San Francisco Bay Bird Observatory (SFBBO).
RELEVANT EXPERIENCE
Santa Clara Valley Water District, Anderson Dam Tunnel Project; Morgan
Hill, CA
February 2024 - Present
Sequoia is providing biological support for the Anderson Dam Tunnel Project.
Sequoia’s biologists are supporting environmental compliance for heavy civil
construction in habitat suitable for California red-legged frog, California tiger
salamander, western pond turtle, steelhead salmon Central California Coast
Distinct Population Segment, coyote ceanothus, nesting birds, pallid bat, and bald
eagle. This project is being conducted under Federal Energy Regulatory
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Commission emergency compliance orders with technical recommendations from the US Fish and Wildlife Service
(USFWS) and National Marine Fisheries Service, and permitting through the US Army Corps of Engineers, State Water
Resources Control Board, California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), and Santa Clara Valley Habitat
Conservation Plan/Natural Community Conservation Plan. Brian’s roles include:
Ensuring water quality permit measures were met using data collected while checking water quality monitoring
sondes and equipment
Conducting soil sampling ensuring soil quality parameters are recorded and met
Conducting nesting bird surveys ensuring the project is within compliance with the Migratory Bird Treaty Act
and other environmental and legal constraints.
County of San Mateo, Half Moon Bay Landfill Stormwater Mgmt Emergency Repair; Half Moon Bay, CA
February 2024 – March 2024
The stormwater drainpipe failure occurred on a coastal bluff next to the closed Half Moon Bay Landfill. An ephemeral,
unnamed drainage flows through the drainpipe. The drainage was conveying water during a site visit on January 25,
2024. Rerouting the runoff may be anticipated; however, this is dependent on timing of the start of repair work. The
failed drainpipe is currently not functioning, and the revetment is at risk of further collapse. The repairs are intended to
address stormwater discharge and limit erosion caused by stormwater runoff as a result of the damage caused by
previous excessive stormwater discharge. Work will be conducted in accordance with BMPs detailed in the County of
San Mateo Routine Maintenance Program Manual. A biologist will be onsite to actively monitor all work. Project
activities are anticipated to begin in February 2024. The full duration of the project is expected to be approximately 3
weeks. As a staff biologist on this effort, Brian’s roles include:
Provide biological monitoring for nesting birds and specials status species
Fairview Residential Development; Hollister, CA
February 2020 – May 2022
Residential housing development located in Hollister, California. Performed preconstruction surveys and daily biological
monitoring of construction activates to ensure protection of wildlife species. Administered environmental training to
crew members and interfaced with construction crews on environmental issues. As a biological monitor Brian’s duties
included:
Performing pre-construction surveys for nesting birds and other biological resources
Preforming burrow excavations of potential CTS burrows prior to ground disturbance activities
Performing biological monitoring of sensitive habitats and species during construction when required by permits
Performing biological monitoring of permit conditions such as exclusionary fence and escape ramp installation.
West of Fairview Residential Development; Hollister, CA
March 2022 – May 2022
Residential housing development located in Hollister, California. Performed preconstruction surveys and daily biological
monitoring of construction and restoration activities to ensure protection of wildlife species and permit condition
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compliance. Administered environmental training to crew members and interfaced with construction crews on
environmental issues. As a biological monitor Brian’s duties included:
Performing pre-construction surveys for nesting birds and other biological resources
Preforming burrow excavations of potential CTS burrows prior to ground disturbance activities
Performing biological monitoring of sensitive habitats and species during construction when required by permits
Performing biological monitoring of permit conditions such as exclusionary fence and escape ramp installation.
Communication Hill Residential Development; San Jose, CA
June 2021
Large scale mix-use residential development. Site was formerly home to one of the largest populations of Santa Clara
Valley dudleya (Dudleya setchellii), which is a low growing perennial succulent with pale yellow flowers that grows in
rocky outcrops in serpentine grasslands. Santa Clara dudleya is found only in the Coyote Valley area of Santa Clara
County, California, from San Jose south about 25 miles to Gilroy. As a biologist on this project Brian’s duties included:
Conducting rare plant surveys for Santa Clara Valley dudleya
Contra Costa Water District – Rock Slough Fish Screen Vegetation Management; Oakley, CA
June 2019 and June 2020
Aquatic vegetation management at the Contra Costa Water District Rock Slough Fish Screen. Biological monitors
provided salvage and documentation for aquatic biological resources during annual aquatic vegetation removal at the
Rock Slough Fish Screen facility. As a biological monitor Brian’s duties included:
Performing biological monitoring of sensitive habitats and species during maintenance activities
Performing pre-construction surveys for nesting birds and other biological resources
species, native plant cover, and restoration plant survivorship. As the land manager of the property and staff biologist
Mr. Nissen’s duties included:
Assisting and leading annual CTS and CRLF surveys
Assisting and leading annual plant survivorship counts
Annual long term resource management and monitoring, including invasive plant management, restoration
planting management, pond maintenance, grazing management, and erosion prevention and mitigation
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