3. Noise Impacts on Recreational Users Within the ANF

On lands within the ANF, potential sensitive receptors include recreational users along trails in the vicinity of the proposed transmission line, including along the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail (PCT). Other sensitive receptors include seasonal residences within the ANF along Bouquet Canyon Road, although these residences would only be exposed to noise associated with construction traffic and helicopter use as they are located several thousand feet from the construction areas. Construction of the proposed project would result in substantial temporary increases in ambient noise levels in excess of the Los Angeles County noise ordinances.

Construction of the proposed project would result in temporary increases in ambient noise levels within the ANF that could disturb recreational users of the PCT. Mitigation Measures N-1b and R-1a (see, pages A-22 to A-23 of Attachment A) are intended to help reduce the impacts of project construction on such sensitive receptors. However, while these mitigation measures would help to inform the public of construction activities and require coordination of construction activities, the proposed project would continue to result in significant temporary noise levels during construction that could disturb recreational users (Class I).