--> Abstract: Implementation and Management of the Coles Levee Ecosystem Preserve, by J. E. Johnstone and S. W. Geddes; #90958 (1995).

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Abstract: Implementation and Management of the Coles Levee Ecosystem Preserve

James E. Johnstone, Stephen W. Geddes

The award Winning Coles Levee Ecosystem Preserve was dedicated in November of 1992. It represents a truly innovative approach between industry and government to cooperatively preserve endangered species habitat while allowing for commercial benefits.

ARCO has agreed with the California Department of Fish and Game to set up, manage and maintain an ecosystem preserve. The development of the preserve has been a "win-win" situation for the regulatory agencies, the company and the endangered species inhabiting the preserve. The Company benefits through a streamlined permitting process, reduced compensation acreage costs and the ability to generate revenue through sale of endangered species habitat conservation credits. The agency was deeded a 6000 acre ecosystem preserve where the endangered species will remain undisturbed.

The agreement with the California Department of Fish and Game placed many obligations on the company. The company had to set aside acreage for the preserve, conduct day to day ecosystem preserve management activities, provide training for employees and implement wildlife protection measures. The company also established a marketing effort to sell habitat compensation credits.

This paper examines the results of this unique agreement with the California Department of Fish and Game over the first two years. Preserve management activities, new permitting procedures, business benefits, changing of operational practices, third party property sales, public perception and relations with the California Department of Fish and Game are discussed in the paper.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #90958©1995 AAPG Pacific Section Meeting, San Francisco, California