Lake El Estero Aquatic Vegetation Removal
Summary
SCH Number
2026080369
Public Agency
City of Monterey
Document Title
Lake El Estero Aquatic Vegetation Removal
Document Type
NOE - Notice of Exemption
Received
Posted
8/12/2026
Document Description
The project consists of mechanical removal of wigeon grass from Lake El Estero, an existing managed urban lake owned and maintained by the City of Monterey. Vegetation would be removed using specialized aquatic harvesting equipment designed to cut and collect vegetation above the sediment surface without disturbing the underlying lakebed. Harvested vegetation would be temporarily staged in designated upland areas for vegetation dry-out before being transported to an approved off-site disposal facility. The purpose of the project is to restore and maintain safe recreational use of the lake, including paddle boat operations, improve water circulation, support operation of existing lake infrastructure, and maintain the lake's ecological and hydraulic function. The project would benefit the City of Monterey, residents, and visitors by maintaining an existing public recreational facility while minimizing environmental impacts through implementation of best management practices and resource protection measures.
Contact Information
Name
Kimberly Cole
Agency Name
City of Monterey
Job Title
Community Development Director
Contact Types
Lead/Public Agency / Project Applicant
Phone
Email
Location
Cities
Monterey
Counties
Monterey
Regions
Northern California
Parcel #
001-994-001-000
Waterways
Lake El Estero
Notice of Exemption
Exempt Status
Categorical Exemption
Type, Section or Code
Class 1 (Section 15301) and Class 4 (Section 15304)
Reasons for Exemption
The project is categorically exempt from CEQA pursuant to Section 15301 (Class 1, Existing Facilities) because it consists of the operation, repair, maintenance, and minor alteration of an existing publicly owned recreational facility involving negligible or no expansion of existing use. Aquatic vegetation removal is a routine maintenance activity intended to preserve the recreational, hydraulic, and ecological function of Lake El Estero without expanding the facility or altering its capacity. The project is also exempt under Section 15304 (Class 4, Minor Alterations to Land) because the work involves minor alterations to the condition of land and vegetation through the removal of aquatic vegetation without disturbing the lakebed or resulting in significant adverse environmental effects. The project incorporates best management practices and avoidance measures to protect biological resources and water quality throughout implementation.
County Clerk
Monterey
Attachments
Notice of Exemption
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