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GPA 05-06; AURA CIRCLE; BIOLOGICAL TECHNICAL REPORT 2007; 2007-01-05
4-====== AURA CIRCLE BIOLOGICi\L TECHNICAL REPORT January 5, 2007 Prepared for : MSK DEVELOPMENT P. 0. Box 300489 Escondido, California 92030 Prepared by : HELIX ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING, INC. 7578 El Cajon Boulevard, Suite 200 La Mesa, California 91941 Section ES 1.0 Title Aura Circle Biological Technical Report TABLE OF CONTENTS EXECUTIVE SUMMARY INTRODUCTION .............................. . . ES-I ············••••••••••••••••••••••• 1.1 Location........................................ . .............................. 1 1.2 Physical Description and Land Use .............................. 1 1.3 Project Description .............................................................................................. 1 2.0 METHODS ................................................................................................................. 1 3.0 EXISTING CONDITIONS........................ . ............ 2 4.0 j .0 3.1 Vegetation Communities................... . ......... 2 3.1.1 Diegan Coastal Sage Scrub ....................................................................... 3 3.1.2 Native Grassland........... . .................... 3 3. 1.3 Non-native Grassland.................................. . .......... 3 3.1.4 Disturbed Habitat...... . .................................................................. 3 3.2 Plants .................................... . . .................................. ] 3.3 Animals ................................. . SENSITIVE RESOURCES ................ . 4.1 Sensitive Vegetation Communities ........... . 4.1. l Diegan Coastal Sage Scrub .......... . 4.1.2 Native Grassland ............................ . 4.1.3 Non-native Grassland ................ . 4.2 Sensitive Plant Species .......................... . 4.3 Sensitive Animal Species ........................... . REGIONAL AND REGULATORY CONTEXT. ........................ . 5.1 MHCP and HMP Evaluations .... 5 .1. l Habitat and Wildlife Corridor Evaluation ............... . . ...... 3 ... .4 . .. .4 . ................. .4 . ... .4 . ........ .4 . ........ .4 . ...... 6 ........ 9 . ....... 9 . .... 10 5.1.2 Zone Level Recommendations ................................................. 10 5.1.3 Proposed Hardline Conservation Areas .................................................. 10 5. l. 4 Coastal Zone Standan1s .......................................................................... l 0 5 .1.5 Special Conditions for Covered Species .................................................. 11 5 .2 Regulatory Issues ............................................................................................... 11 6.0 ANTICIPATED PROJECT IMPACTS ....................................................................... 12 6.1 Vegetation Communities ................................................................................... 12 6.2 Plant Species ................................................................................ 12 6.3 AnimalSpecies .............................................. 12 TABLE OF CONTENTS (cont.) Section Title 6.0 ANTICIPATED PROJECT IMPACTS (cont.) 6.4 Indirect Impacts ............................................................................................... 12 6.4.1 Fire Management .................................................................................. 13 6.4.2 Erosion Control ..................................................................................... 13 6.4.3 Landscaping Restrictions ....................................................................... 13 6.4.4 Fencing, Signs, and Lighting ................................................................. 13 6.4. S Predator and Exotic Species Control.. .................................................... 13 7.0 PROPOSED MITIGATION MEASURES......................................... . ................... 13 7 .1 Mitigation for Significant Direct Impacts .......................................................... 13 7 .1.1 Diegan Coastal Sage Scrub and Disturbed Habitat....... . ................... 13 7 .1.2 Coastal California Gnatcatcher ............................................................... 14 7 .2 Mitigation for Significant Indirect Impacts........... . ............................... 15 7 .2.1 Erosion Control ....................................... . ............................... 15 7 .2.2 Landscaping Restrictions.......................... . ............................... 15 7.2.3 Fencing, Signs, and Lighting ................................................................. 15 7 .2 .4 Predator and Exotic Species Control.......................... . ........ 15 7 .3 Level of Significance After Mitigation.................................... . .................... 15 8.0 REFERENCES ................................ . ..................... 16 LIST OF APPENDICES Tide A Plant Species Observed B Animal Species Observed C Explanation of Status Codes for Plant and Animal Species Number l 2 3 4 5 LIST OF FIGURES Title Follows Page Regional Location Map......... . ................. 2 Project location Map............ . ................. 2 Vegetation and Sensitive Resources .............................................................................. 2 Vegetation and Sensitive Resources/Impacts ............................................................... 10 Proposed Diegan Coastal Sage Scrub Creation ............................................................. l ·t n • • • • • • • • • • • • LIST OF TABLES Number Title 1 Survey Information. . .......................... 2 2 Existing Vegetation Communities ................................................................................ 2 3 Listed or Sensitive Plant Species with Potential to Occur........ . ......................... 5 4 Listed or Sensitive Animal Species with Potential to Occur. .......................................... 7 5 Impacts to Vegetation Communities .......................................................................... 12 6 Mitigation Summary for Impacts to Vegetation Communities .................................... 14 "' EXECUTIVE SUMMARY This report describes existing biological conditions for the 15 .03-acre Aura Circle project site located in Carlsbad, California and provides the project applicant, public, resource agencies, and City of Carlsbad (City) with the necessary information to assess project impacts to biological resources. Regulatory act(s)/plan(s) that apply ro project development include the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), City's Habitat Management Plan (HMP), Multiple Habitat Conservation Plan (MHCP), Coastal Resources Protection, and federal and state Endangered Species acts. The site is located south of Tamarack Avenue and West of El Camino Real in Carlsbad, San Diego County. The property lies between residential communities along Kelly Drive to the east and Avila Avenue to the west. Topography consists of two small ridgelines with gentle sloping hillsides. Elevation ranges from approximately 38 feet to 239 feet above mean sea lc-vel. Surrounding land is composed of residential developments that completely surround the site. The site is within the City's HMP. A general biological survey (consisting of vegetation mapping and a general plant and animal survey) with a focused survey for the coastal California gnatcatcher was conducted on March 19, 1999. Two additional gnarcatcher surveys were conducted on March 28 and April 5, 1999 and a rare plant survey was performed on June 6, 1999. Vegetation on site consists of three communities: Diegan coastal sage scrub, native grassland and non-native grassland. In addition, disturbed areas are also present. Two sensitive plants species and one sensitive animal species were observed on site. Two western dichondra (DidJondra ocadentafo) plants and several Del Mar Mesa sand aster (Corethrogyne filaginifalia var. linifolia) plants were observed, and several observations of coastal California gnatcatcher (Po!ioptila californica californica) were reported for the site. Significant impacts would occur to l.84 acres of Diegan coasral sage scrub and 3.21 acres of disturbed habitat upon implementation of the proposed project. Mitigation for impacts co Diegan coastal sage scrub indudes creation of 5.5 7 acres of Diegan coastal sage scrub on site in what is currently disturbed habitat. Mitigation for impacts to disturbed habitat includes the payment of an in lieu mitigation fee to the City. Mitigation is also prescribed for potentially significant indirect impacts to the adjacent HMP Preserve. Impacts to western dichondra are less than significant due to insufficient numbers to require mitigation. Significant impacts to the federally listed threatened coastal California gnatcatchcr will be covered by the mitigation program resulting from impacts co the Diegan coastal sage scrub as well as additional measures to protect gnatcatcher breeding. HELIX Biolov,-al T,xhniu,I R<port fo,. A,m, Cfrde i ,",-fSK-02 / J,1111,a1J 5, 2007 1.0 INTRODUCTION This biological technical report has been prepared by HELIX Environmental Planning, Inc. (HELIX) to describe existing biological conditions within the 15.03-acre Aura Circle project site located in Carlsbad, California. This report provides the project applicant, public, City of Carlsbad (City), and resource agencies with information necessary to assess project impacts to biological resources. Regulatory requirements that apply to project development include the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), City's Habitat Management Plan (HMP), Multiple Habitat Conservation Plan (MHCP), Coastal Resources Protection, and federal and state Endangered Species aces (ESAs). I.I LOCATION The sire is located south of Tamarack Avenue and West of El Camino Real in Carlsbad, San Diego County, California (Figures 1 and 2). The property lies between residential communities along Kelly Drive to the east and Avila Avenue to the west and includes a Proposed Hardline Conservation Area (Figure 3) within Local Facilities Management Zone (LFMZ) 1. It also falls within the Coastal Zone. 1.2 PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION AND LAND USE The site consists of rwo small ridgelines with gently sloping hillsides, surrounded by areas of predominantly disturbed areas. Vegetation present includes Diegan coastal sage scrub, grassland, and disturbed areas. Surrounding the parcel are densely clustered residential areas with no open space , contiguous to any boundary line. Elevation ranges from approximately 38 feet to 239 feet above mean sea level (amsl). The soil type on site consists primarily of las Flores Loamy Fine Sand, 1 S to 30 percent slopes. 1.3 PROJECT DESCRIPTION The proposed development is a 9-unit single-family residential area along with the requisite access and infra:;trucrure. 2.0 METHODS A general biological field survey with a focused survey for the coastal California gnatcatchct (Polioptila ca/ifarnica ca/ifornica) was condm.:-tcd by HELIX biologists Barry Jones and Sal Zimmitti on March 19, 1999. Two additional focused surveys for the coascal California gnatcatcher were conducted on March 28 by Mr. Jones and on April S, 1999 by Peter Allen. A rare plant survey was conducted on June 6, 1999 by W. Larry Sward (Table 1). Prior to conducting these surveys, HELIX reviewed an in-house database to search for sensitive species that may potentially occur in the project area or within the vicinity. The general biological survey included vegetation mapping using a 1"=200' scale topographic map and an aerial photograph of the project site. Sensitive species observed during the rare plant survey were mapped on a 1"=50' scale topographic map to record their locations within the project area. Animal and plant species observed or detected during all of the above surveys were recorded and arc presented in Appendices A and B, respectively. HELIX Biolor,i<af Terhm,al Repm·t for .fora C1r.-fr i MSK-02 i }mlllm)' 5 . .!007 Table 1 SURVEY INFORMATION ·------. Date Personnel* Weather Conditions Purpose March 19, 1999 BJ, SZ Sunny, 62-70"F I Vegetation mapping/Coastal California with li£ht breeze .1matcatcher survev _ March 28, 1999 Bl Cloud" 60"F Coastal California P-natcatcher survey_~ f---------- April 5, 1999 PA Clear, 60-64"F, light Coastal California gnatcatcher survey breeze .. Tune 6, 1999 LS NIA Rare r: lam survev *BJ=Barry Jones, LS=W. Larry Sward, PA=Peter Allen, SZ=Sal Z1mm1tt1 Nomenclature for this report is from Hickman, ed. (1993) for plants, Holland (1986) for vegetation communities, Collins (1997) for reptiles and amphibians, the American Ornithologists' Union 0998) for birds, and Jones ct al. (1997) for mammals. Sensitive plant species status is from the California Native Plant Society (CNPS; 2006), and sensitive animal species status is from the CDFG (2006). 3.0 EXISTING CONDITIONS Results of the biological surveys are presented below for vegetation communities, plants, and animaJs occurring on site. 3.1 VEGETATION COMMUNITIES The project site supports three vegetation communities: Diegan coastal sage scrub, native grassland and non-native grassland, along with disturbed areas (Figure 3; Table 2). Table 2 EXISTING VEGETATION COMMUNITIES VEGETATION COMMUNITY ' ACREAGE Habitat Group B* Native grassland 0.44 Habitat Grouo C ' Dieg-an coastal sage scrub ' 5.01 Habitat Group E Non-native uassland 0.30 Habitat Group F Disturbed habitat 9.28 ~ TOTAL 15.03 *Habitat Groups refer to the MHCP habitat classification system HELIX • • • ( RIVERSIDE COUNTY ~--·--· .. --.--.. .,. ORANGE l SAN DIEGO : ...... COUNTY ,J COUNTY ........... ,,,. , .. _ ...... 8 4 Pacific Ocean 0 1:\AJ\.{',IS\M\MSK·0 1 Aura\fo.1.a'1'S-\BIO\BTR\A,: I_Rei1ooaLm,:d llllX .... . 8 Miles ...... Vail LakeJ, f ~ } u,r h/fu,d Escondido Sante Lake El keMurraJ i- Sur her/and eSerl'oir Alpine ,-,.It Loveland Re.ten•vir Julian ~Lake Regional Location Map AURAClRCLE Figure 1 2,000 1.000 Job No: MSK-01 Date: 06/28/05-EB 2,000 Feet Source: USGS 7.5' Quad San Luis Rey f:\Ard.l!S\M\fl,.1SK..01 Awa\Maps\OIO\HTR\l'1~_Loci1t.K.m.m:\.d H l llX \ Project Location Map AURA CIRCLE Figure 2 LEGEND Habitat Project Boundary ocss Diegan Coastal Sage Scrub NG Native Grassland NNG Non-native Grassland DH Disturbed Habitat Sensitive Resources A Coastal California Gnatcatcher ( Polilptila ca/ifornica califomica) -$-Del Mar Mesa Sand Aster (Corethrogy11efilagi11ijiJ/ia var. linij'olia) © Western Dichondra (Dichrmdra occide111alis) Q Proposed Hardline Conservation Area 11 ll X DH Job No: MSK-01 Date: 06/29/05-EB 150 Feet Vegetation and Sensitive Resources AURA CIRCLE Figure 3 3.1.1 Diegan Coastal Sage Scrub Coastal sage scrub is one of two major shrub types in California and is characterized by subshrubs with relatively shallow roar systems and open canopies. On sire, dominant species in this habitat type include California sagebrush (Artemisia ca!tfornica), California buckwheat (Eriogonum fasam{at11m), and California encelia (Encefia californica). Approximately 5.01 acres ofDiegan coastal sage scrub occur on site. 3.1.2 Native Grassland Native grassland is a community dominated by perennial bunchgrasses such as purple needle grass (Nassefta pulchra) with annual and perennial £orbs such as blue-eyed grass (Sisyrinchium bel!11m). Native grasslands generally occur on fine-textured soils that generally exclude the annual, exotic grasses. Almost all of the native grasslands in California have been displaced by non-native grassland dominated by introduced annual species. Approximately 0.44 acre of native grassland occurs on site. 3. 1.3 Non-native Grassland Grassland is a dense ro sparse cover of annual grasses, often associated with numerous species of showy-flowered, native, annual £orbs. This association occurs on gradual slopes with deep, fine- textured, usually clay soils. Characteristic species include: oats (Avena sp.), bromes (Brnmus sp.), and mustard (Brassica sp.). Grasslands are important foraging areas for raptors and other sensitive animal speues. Most of the annual introduced species that compromise the majority of species and biomass within the non-native grassland originated from the Mediterranean region, an area with a long history of agriculture and a climate similar to California. These two factors, in addition to intensive grazing and agricultural practices in conjunction with severe droughts, contributed to the successful invasion and establishment of these species and the replacement of native grasslands with annual-dominated mm-native grassland. Approximately 0.30 acre of non-native grassland occurs on site. 3.1.4 Disturbed Habitat Disturbed habitat is either barren of vegetation or is dominated by weedy, non-native species as a result of agricultural use or other mechanical disturbance of the soil. Native components of Diegan coastal sage scrub and grassland are generally absent. At this site, disturbed habitat is dominated by dense stands of mustard. Approximately 9.28 acres of disturbed habitat occur on site. 3.2 PLANTS A list of the plant spe<:ies observed on the project site is induded in Appendix A of this report. The plants that dominated the site were subshrub components of Diegan coastal sage scrub, and non- native, invasive species associated with non-native grassland vegetation and disturbed habitat. 33 ANIMALS A list of animal species observed or detected within the project boundaries is presented in Appendix B of this report. HELIX Biol,,711<1! T,dmr,al Re/mrr fi,r .-for" <.ud, I AISK-0.? / J,m11an 5. ,?()(r J 4.0 SENSITIVE RESOURCES This section discusses any sensitive vegetation, plants, or animals that were observed or detected on the project site. The Carlsbad HMP has a list of covered species occurring or potentially occurring within the boundaries of the HMP area. Also, the MHCP has identified a group of priority animal species, which includes those listed or proposed for listing at the state or federal levels or that were designated as Natural Community Conservation Program (NCCP) target species. 4.1 SENSITIVE VEGETATION COMMUNITIES Sensitive habitats are those which are considered rare within the region, are considered sensitive by the CDFG (Holland 1986), are listed as sensitive under the HMP (City 2004), are targeted for conservation under the state's NCCP Program, or support sensitive plants or animals. Diegan coastal sage scrub, native grassland, and non-native grassland arc considered sensitive vegetation communities. 4. l.1 Diegan Coastal Sage Scrub According to Oberbauer (1991), the historical reduction of sage scrub in San Diego County is approximately 72 percent. Grazing and urbanization are primarily responsible for the loss of coastal sage scrub. Many species are dependent upon coastal sage scrub, including the federally listed threatened coastal California gnatcatchcr. 4.1.2 Native Grassland Native grasslands are some of the most heavily impacted plant communities within California. Many of the pristine native grasslands within the state were converted to non-native grasslands, dominateJ by annual grasses from the Mediterranean. 4.1.3 Non-native Grassland Directly and indirectly, non-native grasslands are key to the conservation of a large number of MHCP species including a variety of narrow endemic species. They also provide foraging habitat for raptors and may be succeeded naturally by coastal sage scrub or other native habitats over time. 4.2 SENSITIVE PLANT SPECIES Two sensitive plant species were observed on site: western dichondra (Dichrmdra orxidenta/iJ) and Del Mar Mesa sand aster (Corethrogyne filaginifalia var. linifolia). Western dichondra has a limited range in San Diego County and has been placed on the watch list by CNPS, requiring monitoring for changes in population status. Del Mar Mesa sand aster is considered a narrow endemic species in the HMP. In the HMP, a narrow endemic species is defined as a "Native species with restricted geographic distributions, soil affinities and/or habitats, and for the purposes of the HMP, species that in addition have important populations within the Plan area, such that substantial loss of these populations or their habitat within the HMP area might jeopardize the continued existence or recovery of rhat spenes. A description of these two plant species, along wirh rheir status, is given below. HELIX Biofogiral Tedmira! Rep,,rt for A/Jra (in/~/ MSK-1!2 I Ja1111ar_r 5, ]()IJ7 4 • • • • • • • • • • • Del Mar Mesa sand aster (Corethrogynefilaginifolia var. linifolia) Status: --/--; CNPS List lB.1; CA Endemic; Carlsbad HMP Narrow Endemic Distribution: San Diego County Habitat: Coastal sage scrub Status on site: Two individuals in the northern end of the site: one in small parch of Diegan coastal sage scrub and the second near a disturbed area Western dichondra (Dichondra occidentalis) Status: --/--; CNPS List 4.2 Distribution: Found in Los Angeles, Orange, Santa Barbara, Ventura and San Diego counties as well as Santa Catalina, Santa Cruz, San Miguel and Santa Rosa Islands and Baja California, Mexico (Baja) Habitat: Perennial herb that occurs in chaparral, cismontane woodland, coastal scrub and valley and foothill grasslands Status on site: Two plants in the center of the southernmost patch ofDiegan coastal sage scrub Plant species not observed at the time of HELIX's surveys but may have potential to occur on site arc listed in Table 3. Table 3 LISTED OR SENSITIVE PLANT SPECIES WITH POTENTIAL TO OCCUR SPECIES STATUS* POTENTIAL TO OCCUR/COMMENTS ~ -ochman's dudlcya --/--Low. Would have been observed if present. ' Dudlqa blochmaniae CNPS List 1B. l Little potential habitat on sire. Occurs in ! I ssp. blorhmaniae) Carlsbad HMP coastal bluff and coastal sage scrub, and Narrow Endemic grasslands. Found on rocky, often day or ' (NE) serpentine soils. Range extends from central California counties into northwestern Baia. California adder's-tongue --/--Low. Occurs in chaparral, grasslands, and (Ophiogloss11m ca/ifarnimm) CNPS List 4.2 vernal pools. Range extends from northern 1 California counties into northwestern Baia. California adolphia --/--Low. Would have been observed if present. (Adolphia ralifornica) CNPS List 2. 1 Typically found on day soils in dry canyons and washes in coastal sage scrub and chaparral. i Occurs below 1,000 feet in elevation m western San Diego Coumv and northwestern Baja. - f Cleveland's goldenstar --/--Low. Would have been observed if present. (}\1uilla develandii) CNPS 1B.l Occurs on clay soils on dry mesas and hillsides Carlsbad HMP NE in coastal sage scrub, chaparral, grasslands, and vernal pools. ' ----\ Orcutt's brodiaea --/--1 Low. Would have been observed if present. I (Brodiaea ormttii) CNPS List 1B.1 Occurs in closed-cone coniferous forests, Carlsbad HMP NE chaparral, cismonrane woodlands, grasslands, and vernal pools on clay soils. Range extends from Riverside and San Bernardino counties rhtouR:h San Die_u:o County into Baja. HELIX 5 Table 3 (cont.) I LISTED OR SENSITNE PLANT SPECIES WITH POTENTIAL TO OCCUR SPECIES STATUS* POTENTIAL TO OCCUR/COMMENTS Orcutt's spineflower FE/SE Low. Would have been observed if present. (Chorizanthe ()rcuttiana) CNPS List IB. l Occurs in dosed cone coniferous forest, CA Endemic maritime chaparral, and coastal scrub. Known Carlsbad HMP NE from only three occurrences in Encinitas and Point Loma. Palmer's grapplinghook --/--Low. Would have been observed if present. (Harpagonella palmert) CNPS List 4. 2 Occurs in chaparral, coastal sage scrub, and grasslands on clay soils. Range includes southern California from Los Angeles County southward, Arizona, and northern Baia. San Diego County --/--Low. Would have been observed if present. v1guiera CNPS List 4.2 Occurs in coastal sage scrub and chaparral. (Viguiera !acmiata) Range includes coastal San Diego County to central Baja. Sticky-leaved liveforever --/--Low. Would have been observed if present. ' ' (Dudleya viscida) CNPS List 1B.2 Occurs in coastal sage scrub and chaparral of CA Endemic bluffs and rocky cliffs. Range includes southern Carlsbad HMP Orange County to central San Diego County. Covered 1 Thread-leaved brodiaea FT/SE Low. Would have been observed if present. ! (Brodiaea filifolia) CNPS List 1B.1 Occurs in coastal sage scrub, cismontane ' CA Endemic woodlands, grasslands, and vernal pools with ! Carlsbad HMP NE clay soils. Range includes coastal San Diego ' ! Countv to central Baia. *Refer to Appendix C for a hstmg and explanat10n of status and sens1t1v1ty codes 4.3 SENSITIVE ANIMAL SPECIES One sensitive animal species was observed on site, coastal California gnatcatcher (see description below); however, several ocher sensitive animal species have the potential to occur within the project boundaries (Table 4). Coastal California gnatcatcher (Poliopti!a californka californica) Status: FT/CSC; Carlsbad HMP Covered Distribution: Southern Los Angeles, Orange, western Riverside, and San Diego counties south into Baja Habitat: Coastal sage scrub Status on site: Several observations of gnatcatchcrs were made throughout the Dicgan coastal sage scrub communities on site; one male was discovered carrying nest material. At least one pair occurs on site. HELIX Biofogital Tt<hnfraf R~Jx!rl for A11ra Cird,: I MSK-f!2 i Jan11ary• 5. ]f)(/7 6 • • • • • • Tahle 4 LISTED OR SENSITIVE ANIMAL SPECIES WITH POTENTIAL TO OCCUR SPECIES STATUS* POTENTIAL TO OCCUR/COMMENTS INVERTEBRATES Hermes copper butterfly --/--Low. Inhabits southern mixed chaparral and (Lycaena hermes) Carlsbad HMP NE coastal sage scrub in more inland areas. Host nlant (Rhamnus mxea) occurs on site. Quino checkerspot butterfly FE/--Low. Larval host plant (Plantago erecta) not : (E11phydryas editha q11ino) observed on site. Not expected to occur on site and is outside the U.S. and W ildlifo ! Service's reC1uired survev area. VERTEBRATES Reptiles San Diego horned lizard --/CSC Moderate. Favored food source (harvester ants (Phrynosoma coronawm [Pogonomyrmex sp.]) not observed but may be blainvillei) nresent nearbv. Orange-throated whiprnil --/CSC Moderate. Favored food (termites ( Cnemidophoms hJperythms Carlsbad HMP [Reticulitermes sp.]) not observed but likely beldinvt) Covered nresent. Coastal western whiptail --/--Moderate. Preferred habitats (grassland and ( Cnemidophorm tigris coastal sage scrub) occur on site. muit1Jcutat11s) Coronado Island skink --/CSC Moderate. Prefers coastal sage scrub, : (Eumeces skiitonianm grassland, and ruderal habitats. I ' ; inter/Jarietaiis) -- Silvery legless lizard (Annidia nivra arrentea) Coastal rosy boa (Lichan11ra trivirvata roseolusca) Northern red-diamond rattlesnake (Crotaim exs11! r11ber) Western patch-nosed snake (Salvadora hexa/ehis virvultea) : Birds ; Cooper's hawk (Accipiter cooperit) Loggerhead shrike (Lanius ludovidanm) - I --/CSC ' --/-- --/CSC --/CSC --/CSC Carlsbad HMP Covered --/CSC Low. Prefers fine soils that arc not common on site. Moderate. Commonly occurs in coastal sage , scrub and rockv areas. I Moderate. Common in coastal sage scrub and : rocky areas. Low. Preferred food source (whiptails) was not observed on site. : Moderate. In San Diego County, tends to inhabit lowland riparian areas and oak woodlands in proximity to suitable foraging areas such as sctublands or fields. Occurs throughout continental U.S., excluding Alaska and parrs of both Montana and the Dakotas. Winters south to Mexico and Honduras. Low. Prefers open habitats including grasslands, scrublands, and ruderal areas with adequate perching locations. Widespread but declining throughout North America. L _____________ __1_ _________ W.._,i~n~te~r~s~s~o~u~,h~to Central America. __ I HELIX Biaf,,,:,cal TedJ/lical Repo~I JO~ ,11,ra Cmle I MSK-{J:! I Jam,ary 5, .20(1~ 1 Table 4 (cont.) LISTED OR SENSITIVE ANIMAL SPECIES WITH POTENTIAL TO OCCUR SPECIES STATUS* POTENTIAL TO OCCUR/COMMENTS . VERTEBRA TES (cont.) Birds (cont.) Northern harrier .. ;csc Low. Prefers coastal, salt, and freshwater (CircuJ cyaneuJ) marshlands, grasslands and prairies. \X'idespread throughout temperate regions of North America and Eurasia. Winters and I migrares throughout California from below sea ' ' level in Death Valley ro 9,800 feet ams!. I Known breeding areas in San Diego County include Torrey Pines, Tijuana River Valley, ' and Camp Pendleton. : Sharp-shinned hawk ' --/CSC Low. Would only occur during winrer as a ! (AcciPiter JtriatUJ) ; visitor. : Burrowing owl I BCC/CSC Low. Would have been observed if present. I I (Athene cunirufaria) I ' Carlsbad HMP ' i Covered ; Bell's sage sparrow BCC/CSC, Low. Would have been observed if present. : (AmPhiJPiza be/Ii befit) Southern California rufous---/CSC Low. Would have been observed if present. • crowned sparrow Carlsbad HMP ' ~..0.!!.'!ophi!a mficef!.J caneJam) Covered . : California horned lark --/CSC Low. Prefers sandy beaches, agricultural fields, • ; (Eremophila afpeJtm actia) grasslands, and open areas. Occurs on coastal I , slopes and lowlands from Sonoma County to I northern Baia. I White-tailed kite --/CSC, Fully I Low. Nesting typically occurs in riparian or 1 (EfanuJ feumruJ) Prorected oak woodlands adjacent to grasslands where small mammals are hunted. Breeds in the Pacific U.S. Winters to South America as far south as Chile. Mammals San Diego desert woodrat .. ;csc Moderate. Nests usually observed if present, (Neotoma lepida intermedia) but may have escaped view in thicker ve'1:etated areas. • Northwestern San Diego --/CSC Moderate. Prefers open, sandy land wirh pocket mouse weeds. (Chaetodipm fa!fax faffax) • Southern grasshopper --/CSC Moderate. Species not restrictive in its habitat 1 1 mouse requirements (Bond 1977). (On;,·chom-YJ tomdm ramona) • • HELIX Biulogi,al Teibniral Rrpu,·/ fur A11ra Circle I MSK-02 I jt11111a1J 5. 2/J07 8 • Table 4 (cont.) LISTED OR SENSITIVE ANIMAL SPECIES WITH POTENTIAL TO OCCUR SPECIES I STATUS* I POTENTIAL TO OCCUR/COMMENTS - VERTEBRATES (cont.} Mammals (cont.) Townsend's western big---/CSC Low. May use site for foraging, but roosting eared bat sites likely elsewhere. (Plea1tus twnsendii twnsendit) ' California mastiff bat --/CSC Moderate. May use site for foraging, but l (E_!jmo/)s /)erotis californzi:11s) roosting sites likely elsewhere. *Refer to Appendix C for a listing and explanation of status and sensitivity codes 5.0 REGIONAL AND REGULATORY CONTEXT The significance of biological resources occurring on the project site are assessed based on the species' or habitats' importance to the region as a whole, relative quality, and degree of connection ro larger open space or preservation areas. This section presents biological resource issues within the broader context of the region including considerations such as corridors and preserve design. 5.1 MHCP AND HMP EVALUATIONS One of the primary objectives of large-scale subregional planning efforts such as the MHCP (and the subarea HMP) is to maintain a preserve system that allows animals and plants to maintain their existence at both local and regional levels. This preserve system is a network composed of core biological resource areas 0arge blocks of habitat) and linkages/wildlife corridors. The City's HMP is consistent with the goals, standards, and guidelines of the subregional MHCP and also provides mitigation options that satisfy the federal and state ESAs. A habitat evaluation model was created for qualifying the lands within the HMP. Qualitative values were assigned to habitats according to a number of parameters including wildlife, vegetation, and biogeography. Using this information, the HMP has identified core biological resource areas that arc large blocks of native habitats having the ability to support diverse plant and animal life. Linkages also provide movement between the core areas. These linkages usually occur in river valleys or along stream courses, but they can also cross hillsides. The system of evaluating habitats can be used tn prioritize which sites have the highest biological value. In the context of the HMP, the Aura Circle property is located within LFMZ 1. The sire is located outside of the City HMP's designated Cores, Linkages, and Special Resource Areas but is identified as a Proposed Hardline Conservation Area (Figure 3) to be part of the HMP Preserve (City 2004). The site also falls within the Coastal Zone. HELIX Bw/og,ra! Teth,m,il /l,·forl JO,· .·1t1r<1 Cir.-!e / M5K-l/2 I Ja1111m)' 5, :!()ff' 9 5.1.1 Habitat and Wildlife Corridor Evaluation This property is not part of a wildlife corridor area connected with other significant open space areas in the City as evidenced by the development on all sides of the property. In addition, the property is not part of the Core and Linkage Area in the City's HMP. 5.1.2 Zone Level Recommendations Within LFMZ 1, the HMP requires that fire management plans are prepared and implemented in order to minimize the removal of conserved habitats to the extent feasible, given safety concerns. It is suggested that fencing and signs are to be used as necessary to minimize human intrusion in or near nesting, loafing, or roosting areas for HMP species, such as pelicans, terns, and rails. None of these species occurs on site. 5.1.3 Proposed Hardline Conservation Areas The Carlsbad HMP defines the site as a Proposed Hardline Conservation Area (Figures 3 and 4). As such, all development shall be clustered in the southern half of the property, and grading shall be kept entirely off the largest area of Diegan coastal sage scrub in the north part of the site. Created slopes shall be revegetated with Diegan coastal sage scrub, and existing disturbed areas that are not identified for development on the hardline map shall be used for on-site mitigation through restoration/re-creation of Diegan coastal sage scrub. Post-development habitat area and open space shall be placed into the HMP Preserve. A 20-foot wide buffer shall be provided between all preserved habitat areas (i.e., Diegan coastal sage scrub) and development (City 2004). The project provides that buffer as part of fuel modification Zone 3. Buffer areas that do not contain native habitat shall be landscaped using native plants. Signage and physical barriers such as walls or fences shall be required to minimize edge effects of the development. 5.1.4 Coastal Zone Standards Additional conservation standards are ro be applied to properties in the Coastal Zone (City 2003). For the subject property, these include: • Environmentally sensitive areas as defined in Section 30107.S of the Coastal Act shall be protected against any significant disruption of habitat values, and only uses dependent on those resources shall be allowed in those areas. "Environmentally sensitive areas"' arc any areas in which plant or animal life or their habitats are either rare or especially valuable because of their special nature or role in an ecosystem and which could be easily disturbed or degraded by human activities and developments. The project would preserve 63.2 percent of the Diegan coastal sage scrub on site and would create an additional S.57 acres of Diegan coastal sage scrub in currently disturbed habitat. All of this habitat must be placed into the HMP Preserve. • There shall be conservation of 67 percent of the Diegan coastal sage scrub on site. Although the project impacts 1.84 acres (36. 7 percent) of the S.0 1 acres of coastal sage scrub on site, the project would create S.S 7 acres of coastal sage scrub on site that, in addition to the remaining 3.17 acres of coastal sage scrub preserved on site, equals 8.74 acres of coastal sage scrub preserved on site post-project. HELIX B10/ogkaf Ttdm,ial R•P,,rt for A11ra Cirde I MSK-/J2 I jum,a') 5. ,!11()7 • • • - - I.\AtcGIS\.._f\MSK-01 Aur:t\.\ta~\DIO\Misc\workm:r._102406.U1).d .Jr If llX ····· .............. ······· ... . ······· ·············· .......... . ........ ·············· .......... . ........ ·············· ......... . . ::.:~:::?: :::::::::t :: /:::: ::· ............... ·············· ....... ·-················· .............. ·······. ··················· .............. ·······. ···················· ·•········•··• ...•..•• ······················ ····•··••••••• ....... . ······················· .............. ·····•• . ·····················•· ········••·•·• ••••••• .. ····•········•••••••••• •••••••••••••• . ... ············•·••••••••• ..... ··············•·•···•• ······ ................. . ········ ............. , .... . ......... ....... ......... . . . ......................... . .......... ... ·············· ... . ..................... . ... . ................... , .. ..... . . ................... . t i! :.:: "i:i ::::j~¢~$./ ..... .... . . ................ . ::::: :::: ::; ...... ·:: ::::.·:::::::::: :: : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : . • c:::::::: ......... ··········· ............. . ..... .... ············ ............ . ..... .... . ........... ·········· .. . :::::: :::: :::: ::::::;::::: :.·::;::::::,::::: ············ •.... ··•·•··••••• ············ ................. . ···········--....... . ............ ....... . ............ ....... . ············ ....... . ............ ········ ::::::::!::: :::::::: ·········· ... , .... . ......... ········· ... ······· ....... . .... ...... . .,, .... . ..... .... ········ . ........... .... . . ·······•··· .... . . ··········· .... . ................. ................. . ........... .... . . ........... .... . . ··········· .... . . ........... .... . . ........... .... . : :::::::,:::: ::::; ............. , ... i ~iii~~~~~~~~~~~·~ . ··········· ..... o: MSK-02 Date: 10/30/06 Vegetation and Sensitive Resources/Impacts AURA CIRCLE Figure 4 • There shall be no net loss of Diegan coastal sage scrub. The project would impact 1.84 acres of coastal sage scrub on site but would create 5.57 acres of coastal sage scrub on site for a net increase of 3.73 acres (a mitigation ratio of approximately 3:1). • Mitigation for impacts to Diegan coastal sage scrub, when permitted, shall include a creation component that achieves the no net loss standard. The project would create a net increase of 3.73 acres of Diegan coastal sage scrub on site, which provides a mitigation ratio of approximately 3: 1. 5 .1. 5 Special Conditions foe Covered Species Special conditions may apply to those covered species classified as narrow endemics. In the HMP, narrow endemic species are defined as those with, "restricted geographic distributions, soil affinities and/or habitats, and or for purposes of the HMP, species that in addition have important populations within the plan area, such that substantial loss of these populations or their habitat with the HMP area might jeopardize the continued existence or recovery of that species." One narrow endemic species was observed on site: Del Mar Mesa sand aster. The HMP identifies the conservation of the two major populations located within a hardline conservation area. In addition, the habitat of this species is considered adequately preserved (88 percent of southern maritime chaparral). U oder "Measures for Carlsbad HMP Species" the following management recommendations for the Del Mar Mesa sand aster arc listed: (1) manage preserve areas to minimize edge effects, prevent disturbance, and protect against frequent or catastrophic fires; (2) enhance small, or restore, extirpated populations by the introduction of appropriate plant materials as necessary; and (3) use the species in revegetation programs where appropriate. All of the individuals on site will remain within the HMP Preserve. The coastal California gnatcatcher is a covered species under the HMP; as such, it is recommended that all projects adhere to the following management measures: (1) manage preserve areas to minimize edge effects, control cowbirds and predators, prevent livestock overgrazing, and resmct human disturbance; (2) prepare and implement a fire management program for preserve areas as part of a derailed management plan; and (3) where opportunities arise, enhance and restore coastal sage scrub within preserve areas, with priority given to the creation of gnatcatcher breeding opportunities within constrained linkages. 5.2 REGULATORY ISSUES Regulations that apply to the project include the federal ESA, California Fish and Game Code, CEQA, and the City's HMP. The federal ESA provides the legal framework for protection of species (and their habitats) which are identified as being in danger of extinction or which arc threatened at a regional level. Impacts to protected species (those listed as endangered or threatened) arc considered a take under the federal ESA. For purposes of the federal ESA, if gnatcatchers are present on a site, then contiguous and nearby suitable habitat is generally considered to be "occupied" as well. Impacts to rhc gnatcatcher pair observed on site would be considered a take under the federal ESA anJ therefore would require an incidental take permit (Section 7, lO[al, or 4[d]) from the City. HELIX Biol~giwf Tah111<,,f R,p,,rt /Or Amw C,rdr; A!SK-01 / Ja111,ar, 5. 20/17 II 6.0 ANTICIPATED PROJECT IMPACTS The following section describes potential direct and indirect impacts associated with the proposed Aura Circle project. Analysis of impacts for the project was based on limits of grading and brush management {Figure 4). 6.1 VEGETATION COMMUNITIES Vegetation communities that would be impacted following implementation of the proposed project include Diegan coastal sage scrub (1.84 acres) and disturbed habitat (3.21 acres; Table 5). Impacts to both of these communities are considered significant under the HMP. ! Table; ' IMPACTS TO VEGETATION COMMUNITIES I ' i Vegetation Community Existing I Impacts I Remaining After Impacts - I Habitat Grouo B* I Native 11:rassland 0.44 0.00 0.44 Habitat Groun C Die.i.tan coastal sage scrub 5.01 1.84 3.17 Habitat Group E Non-native grassland 0.30 0.00 0.30 ' ' Habitat Grouo F j Disturbed habitat 9.28 3.21 6.07 i "------ TOTAL 15.03 5.05 9.98 *Habitat Groups refer to the MHCP habitat classification system 6.2 PLANT SPECIES The proposed development of the Aura Circle property would impact one of the two sensitive plant species observed, western dichondra. Impacts to this species would be considered adverse, but less than significant considering the limited occurrence of the plant on site (2 individuals) and its relatively low level of sensitivity (CNPS List 4.2). 6.3 ANIMAL SPECIES The proposed activities on the project site would directly and indirectly impact the coastal California gnatcatcher, a federally listed threatened species. This impact is considered significant. 6.4 INDIRECT IMPACTS The project is adjacent to a Proposed Hardline Conservation Area (i.e., the HMP Preserve). In order co prevent negative effects of the proposed development on the HMP Preserve, certain adjacency standards must be considered. Each of these adjacency standards is addressed below. HELIX 8,vlogkal T,d1ni,·al R,port far Aura Gn·le I MSK-02 I ja"'"''J" 5. 20117 12 • • • • • • • 6.4.1 Fire Management Fire management must provide adequate setbacks for new development from the HMP Preserve. The project provides a 60-foot wide buffer from proposed structures to the HMP Preserve boundary except for Lot 9. Lot 9 would have a 30-foot wide buffer from the edge of the srrucrure to the HMP Preserve, of which 20 feet would be within Zone 3. A solid block or masonry wall would be constructed 10 feet from the srrucrure clearly demarcating the backyard from the Zone 3 boundary. In addition, native, low-fuel plant species would be installed within the 20-foot wide Zone 3 area. As such, implementation of fire management requirements would result in a less than significant impact. 6.4.2 Erosion Control Erosion hazards to biological resources in the HMP Preserve on site include loss of vegetative cover from landslides. Therefore, any slopes within or adjacent to the HMP Preserve will require the project to address slope stabilization and surface drainage. Loss of vegetative cover in the HMP Preserve would be a significant impact. 6.4.3 Landscaping Restrictions Landscaping is often in direct conflict with biological objectives. Of particular concern are the introduction of non-native, invasive species and the introduction of horticultural regimes (e.g., irrigation) that alter site conditions in the HMP Preserve, resulting in a significant impact. 6.4.4 Fencing, Signs, and Lighting Any fencing that restricts normal wildlife movement, restricts wildlife access to food or water, and/or directs wildlife onto roads would be considered a significant impact. Artificial lighting can significantly impact wildlife in the HMP Preserve unless it is restricted. 6.4.5 Predator and Exotic Species Control Exotic species can out-compete native species, and feral and domestic animals can prey on native species. These occurrences in the HMP Preserve would be a significant impact. 7.0 PROPOSED MITIGATION MEASURES The proposed mitigation measures are consistent with requirements of the Carlsbad HMP and its addenda (City 2004). 7.1 MITIGATION FOR SIGNFICANT DIRECT IMPACTS 7 .1.1 Diegan Coastal Sage Scrub and Disturbed Habitat Impacts to 1.84 acres of Diegan coastal sage scrub shall be mitigated at a mm1mum ratio of 2:1 requiring 3.68 acres (Table 6}. On-site preservation is not eligible for mitigation credit in the coastal HELIX 81,,f1Jg,,al T«·h11i,al Reprwt for Am·a Ctrd, / MSK-0.? I jan11arr 5. ]()()'; 13 zone, thus mitigation shall be accomplished through on-site creation of 5.57 acres of Diegan coastal sage scrub where disturbed habitat occurs on sire (Figure 5 ). This shall result in an approximate mitigation ratio of 3: 1, all of which shall be creation. All of the cteaced Diegan coastal sage scrub shall be placed into the HMP Preserve if it is not already within the Proposed Hardline Conservation Area (i.e., the HMP Preserve). Table 6 MITIGATION SUMMARY FOR IMPACTS TO VEGETATION COMMUNITIES Vegetation Community/Habitat Acreae:e Mitiration I Existing Imoact Ratio -Reauired Habitat Group B* Native _grassland ' 0.44 0.00 3, 1 I 0.00 Habitat Grouo Ct Diegan coastal sage scrub (including disturbed) -• ! ' 5.01 1.84 2, 1 3.68 ' occuoied ' I ' Habitat GrouD E Non-native grassland 0.30 0.00 0.5:1 I 0.00 Habitat Group F Disturbed habitat I 9.28 3.21 ± i 0.00 TOTAL I 15.03 5.05 --I 3.68 ' *Habitat Groups refer ro MHCP habitat classification system tMaximum avoidance and on-site conservation of Group C habitat is encouraged :j:Habitat in chis group which is not conserved or mitigated (in this case, excluding everything outside the proposed project footprint) on site shall pay a per acre in lieu mitigation fee in an amount to be determined by the City Council Per the HMP (City 2004), impacts to 3.21 acres of disturbed habitat shall be mitigated by the payment of an in lieu mitigation fee subject to the mitigation fee in place at the time of permit issuance. 7 .1.2 Coastal California Gnatcatcher Impacts to the coastal California gnarcatcher would be partly mitigated through the mitigation program for Diegan coastal sage scrub. Additionally, ro protect gnatcatcher breeding in the Proposed Hardline Conservation Area (HMP Preserve), the following shall be adhered to: No clearing, grubbing, grading, or other construction activities shall occur in Diegan coastal sage scrub from February 15 to August 31, the breeding season of the coastal California gnatcatcher. If clearing, grubbing, grading, or other construction activities would occur during the gnaccatcher breeding season, a pre-construt.:tion survey shall be conducted ro determine if this species occurs within the areas impacted by noise. If there are no gnatcarchers nesting (includes nest building or other breeding/nesting behavior) within this area, development shall be allowed to proceed. However, if any gnatcarchers are observed nesting or displaying breeding/nesting behavior within the area, construction shall (1) be postponed until all nesting (or breeding/nesting behavior) has ceased or until after August 31; or (2) a temporary noise barrier or berm shall be constructed at an appropriate location within the development footprint (not HELIX Biolugi,al T,dmil'al Repon _fa,-Aura Grr:le I MSK-02 I January 5. 2007 14 • • • • • • - • - • - • - - LEGEND Habitat ocss Diegan Coastal Sage Scrub NG Native Grassland NNG Non-native Grassland DH Disturbed Habitat Sensitive Resources .& Coastal California Gnatcatcher (Polilprila califomica cal(fomica) Del Mar Mesa Sand Aster (Core1/irogynejilagi11ifolia var. linijt,lia) Western Dichondra (Diclumdra occidenra/is) Proposed Diegan Coastal Sage Scrub Creation Area ♦E s 150 75 0 150 Feet Job No: MSK-02 Date: 11/01/06 l'\.--\n.<ilS\M\MSK•OI J\in\..\ts~\IUO\BlR\F1g5_1X'SS.m:td •JP Hf llX Proposed Diegan Coastal Sage Scrub Creation AURA CIRCLE Figure 5 within the proposed open space) to ensure that noise levels are reduced to below 60 dB. Alternatively, the use of construction equipment could be scheduled to keep noise levels below 60 dB ¼i in lieu of or in concert with a wall or other noise barrier. 7.2 MITIGATION FOR SIGNIFICANT INDIRECT IMPACTS The proposed mitigation measures are consistent with the adjacency standards of the HMP. 7 .2.1 Erosion Control To prevent the loss of vegetative cover in the HMP Preserve, the project shall prohibit bare surface grading for fire control on slopes and ensure that fire control leaves (or replaces) adequate vegetative cover to prevent surface erosion. The project shall also ensure that all areas of habitat creation arc adequately stabilized (e.g., with a binder) after planting ro minimize surface erosion. Finally, the project shall ensure that no new surface drainage is directed into the HMP Preserve. Public education regarding fire prevention and safety shall be provided so that both biological and safety goals arc met. 7 .2.2 Landscaping Restrictions The project shall not use any non-native, invasive plant species in landscaping adjacent to the HMP Preserve. The project shall control irrigation of landscaping adjacent to the HMP Preserve to prevent runoff into it. 7.2.3 Fencing, Signs, and Lighting The project shall install fencing that restricts human access to the HMP Preserve but allows for wildlife movement and does not direct lt onto the road. The project shall install signs to educate the public about the goals of the HMP Preserve and that prohibit access to it. Lighting along the roadway shall be from low-pressure sodium illumination sources. Lighting in back yards adjacent to the HMP Preserve shall be of the minimum necessary for safety and security and shall be shielded and directed to shine downward and not into the HMP Preserve. Homeowner lighting restrictions shall be included in covenants, conditions, and restrictions (CC&Rs). 7 .2.4 Predator and Exotic Species Control The project shall educate homeowners regarding responsible pct ownership (e.g., keeping pets indoors, spaying/neutering pets, not releasing pets into the wild). The project shall fence areas between housing and the adjacent HMP Preserve to keep pets out of it. For exotic species control, the project shall not use any non-native invasive plant species in landscaping adjacent to the HMP Preserve. 7 .3 LEVEL OF SIGNIFICANCE AFTER MITIGATION With implementation of the mitigation measures outlined above that are consistent with the HMP (City 2004), the significant impacts to Dicgan coastal sage scrub, disturbed habitat, and coastal California gnatcatcher, as weU as potentially significant indirect impacts, would be rendered less than significant. HELIX /J;ufogira! T«hm"if Report for ANra Cirde I MSK-112 ij,11111<1'1 5. 2007 15 8.0 REFERENCES American Ornithologists' Union. 1998. Checklist of North American Birds (7th Edition). American Ornithologists' Union. Bond, S. 1977. An annotated list of rhe mammals of San Diego County, California. San Diego Society of Natural History, Trans. 18(14):229-248, 29 April 1977. California Native Plant Society (CNPS). 2006. Inventory of Rare and Endangered Plants. Internet searchable database Version 7-06d. URL http://cnps.web.aplus.net/cgi-bin/inv/inventory.cgi. Updated quarterly. October 3. California Department of Fish and Game {CDFG). 1993. Natural Community Conservation Planning Process Guidelines. Unpublished. 2006. State of California, The Resources Agency, Biogeographic Data Branch, Special Animals. February. City of Carlsbad (City). 2004. Habitat Management Plan for Natural Communities in the City of Carlsbad. November. Collins, J.T. 1997. Standard common and current scientific names for Notch American amphibians and reptiles (4th Edition). Society for rhe Study of Amphibians and Reptiles, Hcrpetological Circular 25, 40 pp. Hickman, J.C., ed. 1993. The Jepson Manual, Higher Plants of California. University of California Press, Berkeley, 1400 pp. Holland, R.F. 1986. Preliminary descriptions of the terrestrial natural communities of California. Nongame-Heritage Program, California Department of Fish & Game. Jones, J.K., R.S. Hoffman, D.W. Rice, C. Jones, R.J. Baker, and M.D. Engstrom. 1997. Revised checklist of North American mammals north of Mexico. Occasional Papers of rhe Museum, Texas Tech University 146: 1-23. Oberbauer, T. 1991. Comparison of Pre-European and 1988 vegetation coverage for San Diego County. In: Geol. Soc. North Amer., So. Calif. Reg., Sympos. Abbot, P. and Elliot, B. (Eds). Oct. 21-24, 1991, San Diego California. HELIX Bzoloti,af Te,h111ra/ Reporr for A1m1 Grde i MSK-02 I Jam,ar:,· 5. 2//0-16 • • • • • • • • • • • • --- - • - APPENDIX A PLANT SPECIES OBSERVED Appendix A PLANT SPECIES OBSERVED -AURA CIRCLE COMMON NAME MONOCOTYLEDONEAE lridaceae -Iris Family Sisyrinchium bellum§ Liliaceae -Lily Family Yuffa schidigera Poaceae -Grass Family Achnatherum conmatum ( =Stipa coronata) Avena sp. Bromus madritensis ssp. rubens Cortaderia jubata Hordeum sp. NaJSel!a lepida NaJJel!a pukhra DICOTYLEDONEAE Anacardiaceae -Sumac Family Malosma la11rina§ Rh11s mtegrifolia§ Sthinm mo/le Apiaceae Poeniculum vu!gare Asteraceae -Sunflower Family Artemisia californica Baa:haris pilularis var. comangmnea BacchariJ sarothroides Centaurea 1m:!itensis Corethrogyne filaginifolia var. linifoliat Encelia califarnica§ Gnapbalium b1color Hazardia sq1tarrosas var. grindt:lioides (=Haplopappus squarrosus ssp. grindelwides) Hemizonia fasrimlata Heterotheca grandiflora LJ!ssingia filaginifolia var. t:irgata ( =Corethrogyne filaginifolia var. virgata) Sonchus asper Boraginaceae -Borage Family C,yptantha sp.§ Brnssicaceae -Mustard Family Br,wica sp.§ SCIENTIFIC NAME bluc~eyed grass moiave yucca giant stipa oats foxtail chess pampas grass wild barley foothill necdlegrass purple needlegrass laurel sumac lemonadeberry Peruvian pepper tree fennel California sagebrush Chaparral broom broom baccharis tocalote Del Mar Mesa sand aster common encelia cudweed hazardia fascicled tarplant telegraph weed sand-aster prickly sow-thistle cryptantha mustard A-1 HABITAT+ NG css DH NNG,DH NNG,DH DH css NNG NG DH DH DH DH css CSS, DH CSS, DH css CSS, DH css css css DH DH css DH NNG NNG,DH Appendix A (cont.) PLANT SPECIES OBSERVED -AURA CIRCLE COMMON NAME DICOTYLEDONEAE (cont.) Cactaceae -Cactus Family Oputia littoralis Opuntia pro!ifera Caprifoliaceae -Honeysuckle Family Sambums mexicana§ Convolvulaceac -Morning.Glory Family Calystegia sp. Convolv,tlus arvensis Dichondra occidentalist Euphorbiaceae -Spurge Family Chamaesyce polycarpa ( = E11phorbia polycarpa var. polycarpa) Ricmus rnmmunis Fabaceae -Pea Family Lotm srnpariw var. srnparius§ Lupinus sp. Geraniaceae -Geranium Family Erodium sp.§ M yoporaceae Myoporum laewm Myrcaceae -Myrtle Family Eucalyptus sp. Nyctaginaceae -Four O'Clock Family Mirabilis califarnica§ Polygonaceae -Buckwheat Family Eriogonum fasciculat11m ssp. fascicu!at1tm§ Primulaccae -Primrose Family A nagal/iJ arvensis Rosaceae HeteromeleJ arbutifrilia Scrophulariaceac Mim1dm aurantiaa,s Pemtemon sp. Simmondsiaceae -Jojoba Family N1cotiana glauca Urticaceae Urtica dioica ssp. holo.rencea ( = Urtica holosericea) §Plant in flower during survey tSensitive species SCIENTIFIC NAME coast prickly pear coastal cholla blue elderberry morning glory bindweed western dichondra fairy mats castor bean deerweed lupine filaree myoporum eucalyptus wishbone bush California buckwheat poor-man's weatherglass monkey-flower penstemon tree tobacco stinging netrle HABITATt css css CSS, DH NNG,DH DH css css DH CSS, NNG NNG,DH DH DH css css css CSS, DH css css DH DH :j:Habitat acronyms: CSS=Diegan coastal sage scrub; NG=native grassland; NNG=non-nativc grassland; DH= disturbed habitat A-2 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • APPENDIX B ANTh1AL SPECIES OBSERVED Appendix B ANIMAL SPECIES OBSERVED -AURA CIRCLE SCIENTIFIC NAME INVERTEBRATE Insect Coenonympha californica VERTEBRATES Reptile Sceloporus occidenta/iJ Birds Age/aim phoentceus St11rnm vulgaris Buteo lineatttJ Cal;pte anna Corvus brachyrhynchos Carduelis psaftria Carpodacm mexicanus Aphe/ecoma californica Colaptes aurattJJ Con'tls corax Falco sparverius Pipilo crissa/iJ Polioptila califormca californicat Psaltriparus minimus Callipepla ca!tfornica Mimus polyglottos T;'rannus vociferans Zenaida macroura Melospiza melodia Zonotrithia {eucophrys Mammals Didelphis virgmiana Sylvilgus bachmani Thomomp bottae tSensitive species COMMON NAME California ringlet western fence lizard red-winged blackbird European starling red-shouldered hawk Anna's hummingbird American crow lesser goldfinch house finch western scrub jay northern flicker common raven American kestrel California towhee coastal California gnatcatcher bushrit California quail northern mockingbird Cassin's kingbird mourning dove song sparrow white-crowned sparrow opossum brush rabbit Botta's pocket gopher tHabitat acronyms: DH=disturbed habitat; CSS=Diegan coastal sage scrub B-1 HABITAT+ DH DH css CSS, DH CSS, DH css DH css css DH CSS, DH DH css css css css css CSS, DH css CSS, DH css css css css CSS, DH APPENDIX C EXPLANATION OF STATUS CODES FOR PLANT AND ANI111Afo SPECIES Appendix C EXPLANATION OF STATUS CODES FOR PLANT AND ANIMAL SPECIES FEDERAL AND STATE CODES U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) FE Federally listed endangered FT Federally listed threatened BCC Birds of Conservation Concern (discussed in more detail below) California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG) SE State listed endangered CSC California species of special concern Fully Protected Fully Protected species refers to all vertebrate and invertebrate raxa of concern to the NaturaJ Diversity Data Base regardless of legal or protection status. These species may not be taken or possessed without a permit from the Fish and Game Commission and/or CDFG. OTHER CODES AND ABBREVIATIONS USFWS Birds of Conservation Concern (BCC) This report from 2002 aims to identify accurately the migratory an<l non-migratory bird species (beyond those already designated as federally threatened or endangered) that represent lTSFWS' highest conservation priorities and draw attention to species in need of conservation action. l TSFWS hopes that by focusing attention on these highest priority species, the report will promote greater study and protection of the habitats and ecological communities upon which these species depend, thereby ensuring the future of healthy avian populations and communities. The report is available online at http://migratorybirds.fws.gov/reports/bcc2002. pdf. Carlsbad Habitat Management Plan (HMP) Covered Species Species covered for take under the Multiple Habitat Conservation Program (MHCP) Carlsbad Habitat Management Plan (HMP) that has yet to be approved by the wildlife agencies. Carlsbad HMP Narrow Endemic (NE) "Narrow Endemic" is a sensitivity rating given by the MHCP to indicate "those species considered so restricted in distribution and ahundance that substantial loss of their populations or habitat might jeopardize the species' continued existence or recovery." C-1 Appendix C (cont.) EXPLANATION OF STATUS CODES FOR PLANT AND ANIMAL SPECIES CALIFORNIA NATIVE PLANT SOCIE1Y (CNPS) CODES Lists IA = Presumed extinct. 1B = Rare, threatened, or endangered in California and elsewhere. Eligible for state listing. 2 = Rare, threatened, or endangered in California but more common elsewhere. Eligible for state listing. 3 = Distribution, endangerment, ecology, and/or taxonomic information needed. Some eligible for state listing. 4 = A watch list for species of limited distribution. Needs monitoring for changes in population status. Few (if any) eligible for state listing. List/Threat Code Extensions .1 = Seriously endangered in California (over 80 percent of occurrences threatened/high degree and immediacy of threat) .2 = Fairly endangered in California (20 to 80 percent occurrences threatened) .3 = Not very endangered in California (less than 20 percent of occurrences threatened, or no current threats known) CA Endemic corresponds ro rhose tax.a that only occur in California. All List lA (presumed extinct in California) and some List 3 (need more information; a review list) plants lacking threat information receive no extension. Threat Code guidelines represent only a starting point in threat level assessment. Other factors, such as habitat vulnerability and specificity, distribution, and condition of occurrences, are considered in setting the Threat Code. C-2 • • • •