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SIGNIFICANT IMPACTS IDENTIFIED IN THE INITIAL STUDY TRAFFIC The proposed project is not expected to generate higher levels of traffic on a daily basis than is currently permitted under the existing permit (QX-86-3). The project will, however, extend the life of the quarry by approximately 50 years. So while higher levels of traffic are not expected, if the expansion is approved, the quarry-related traffic will continue over a longer period of time. SOILS/GEOLOGY The site is composed of both prime and non-prime soils. The proposed expansion will disturb approximately 282 acres of the 501-acre site. Three large pits will remain after mine reclamation, approximately 100 to 130 feet deep. The fourth pit will be reclaimed to at grade' conditions. Development as proposed will result in the significant loss of prime farmland, as approximately 202.4 acres will be composed of steep pit wales or slopes. The 80.3 acres remaining in the pit bottoms are proposed to be reclaimed to grazing land. Given the depth and steepness of the slopes, it is not known whether or not the reclamation to agricultural uses such as grazing will be feasible. The applicant is proposing that working and final slopes be graded at 2:1. Pit slopes are proposed to be constructed with 12-foot benches every 50 feet. Despite these controls, and given the site's proximity to major transportation facilities, bridges, and utility conveyances, it is not known if pit slopes will be stable or, if pit slopes should fail, what impacts to these facilities may occur. AIR QUALITY A recently prepared EIR for a proposed project (Vernalis Interchange, SCH # 95052053) in the same general area identified short-term construction related air quality impacts as being significant and unavoidable. Continued excavation of this site will add incrementally to adverse air quality impacts. VISUAL The site is highly visible from both Interstates 5 and 580, which constitute the eastern and western boundaries, respectively, of the portion of the site proposed to be disturbed. The San Joaquin County General Plan identifies Interstate 580 as being a Scenic Route. General Plan Open Space Policy No. 13 (p. VI-5) states, 'Development proposals along scenic routes shall not detract from the visual and recreational experience.' Given the location of the site relative to the two highways, and the nature of the proposed use, it is likely that the three 100-to 130-foot-deep pits will 'detract from the visual experience,' resulting in a significant environmental impact. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES The portion of the site to be excavated east of 1-580 is within the Buffer Area of the San Joaquin Kit Fox Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP). The area west of 1-580, shown as 'Reserve' on the Site Plan and not proposed for excavation, is within the Core Conservation Area of the HCP. Approximately 43 acres of the site at the southern boundary of the property is used for an existing quarry. Hospital Creek separates this area from the remaining area to be excavated north of the creek. This area is presently planted with almond trees. Notice of Preparation - 2 - ER-96-2