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3. Noise: <br /> Properly muffled, speedboats are relatively quiet. <br /> Recreational vehicle manufacturers have long been <br /> aware of noise problems and are attempting to <br /> further quiet motorboats. Engine exhausts are the <br /> main source of noise for boats with the highest <br /> noise levels. Speed boat noise limits are 86 d8A <br /> at 50 feet. The detailed effects of such noise <br /> levels are discussed in the San Joaquin County <br /> Council of Governments Noise Element. The noise <br /> at this level is annoying and carries harmful physi- <br /> cal effects also discussed in the Noise Element. <br /> The effects of noise on wildlife depends on the <br /> species. Raptors and waterfowl are most affected <br /> by noise. <br /> 4. Water Quality: The presence of large numbers of <br /> boaters in a localized vicinity will induce a <br /> localized degradation of water quality. Discharge <br /> of exhaust, oil base residue, litter and human <br /> waste (however unlawful) will occur. <br /> During the construction of the marina, pile driving <br /> will cause some turbidity of the waterway. This <br /> will be a temporary impact although it may be <br /> stretched over a long period if the berths are <br /> constructed in phases. Turbidity interferes with <br /> the penetration of sunlight, thus adversely affect- <br /> ing photosynthesis of aquatic plants. Settleable <br /> materials such as soil particles and organic debris <br /> can settle out of solution and smother fish spawning <br /> areas as well as vitally-important bottom-dwelling <br /> organisms. <br /> 5. Loss of Wildlife Habitat and Vegetation : <br /> Conversion of the agricultural land into a parking <br /> area results in a loss of roosting areas for <br /> migratory birds. As part of the Pacific Flyway <br /> the marshlands and the corn and milo fields of the <br /> Delta have provided an opportunity for the water- <br /> fowl to rest and feed. Despite the Delta 's role <br /> in the Pacific Flyway, Department of Fish and Game <br /> estimates annual crop depredation by waterfowl at <br /> only a few thousand dollars. Fortunately, the peak <br /> season for waterfowl migration usually occurs in <br /> the Delta in late December and January. At this <br /> time most farm fields are flooded with fresh water <br /> to leach out the soil salts deposited during summer <br /> irrigation. <br /> - 19 - <br />