4. NATURAL ENVIRONMENT

Policy EV-3:

Protect and enhance the natural environment in the Everest Neighborhood.

Environmental policies for the Everest Neighborhood Plan strive to protect and enhance the quality and function of the natural environment and protect life and property from environmental hazards. The Everest neighborhood is located within the Moss Bay drainage basin and contains multiple wetlands and streams (see Figures EV-1a-3). These natural features help maintain water quality, recharge groundwater, provide wildlife and fish habitat, and provide open space and aesthetic enjoyment. Figures EV-1a and EV-1b identify geologically hazardous areas within the Neighborhood, including slopes with moderate to high landslide susceptibility and land with potential for medium to high liquefaction during a seismic event. City regulations ensure that activity in these areas address risks and impacts associated with development.

Policy EV-4:

Maintain and restore the functional integrity of streams and wetlands. Improve segments adjacent to the Cross Kirkland Corridor with native vegetation during implementation of the CKC Master Plan.

Several open streams exist in the Everest Neighborhood and continue west through the Moss Bay Neighborhood (see Figure EV-2), including Everest Creek. These streams should be preserved and maintained in their natural state or restored to a natural condition for water quality in the Moss Bay drainage basin and to provide wildlife habitat and natural open space amenities in the area.

The Neighborhood also contains several wetland areas (see Figure EV-2) that provide important water storage and surface water filtration functions, as well as providing habitat for wildlife. Many of the wetland areas are now in public ownership. City regulations ensure that activity in or near these critical areas mitigates environmental impacts associated with development.

Figure EV-1a: Everest Landslide Susceptibility

Figure EV-1b: Everest Liquefaction Potential

Figure EV-2: Everest Wetlands, Streams, and Lakes

Figure EV-3: Everest Land Use