HomeMy WebLinkAboutGPA 05-06; AURA CIRCLE; BIOLOGICAL TECHNICAL REPORT 2016; 2016-09-15--------
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Aura Circle Project
Biological Technical Report
Preparedfor:
Pacific Legacy Homes
16870 W. Bernardo Drive, Suite 400
San Diego. CA 92127
Prepared by:
HELIX Environmental Planning, Inc.
7578 El Cajon Boulevard
La Mesa, CA 91942
September 15, 2016
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Table of Contents
Section
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ...................................................................................................... ES-I
1.0
2.0
3.0
4.0
5.0
INTRODUCTION .............................................................................................................. I
I.I
1.2
1.3
Location .................................................................................................................. 1
Physical Description and Land Use ........................................................................ 1
Project Description .................................................................................................. 1
METHODS ......................................................................................................................... 2
2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4
2.5
2.6
2.7
Literature Review .................................................................................................... 2
General Biological Survey ...................................................................................... 2
Rare Plant Survey ................................................................................................... 3
Coastal California Gnatcatcher Survey ................................................................... 3
Hermes Copper Butterfly Habitat Assessment ....................................................... 3
Survey Limitations .................................................................................................. 4
Nomenclature .......................................................................................................... 4
EXISTING CONDITIONS ................................................................................................. 4
3. I
3.2
3.3
Vegetation Communities ........................................................................................ 4
3.1.1 Diegan Coastal Sage Scrub (including disturbed) ...................................... 5
3.1.2 Native Grassland ......................................................................................... 5
3.1.3 Non-native Grassland .................................................................................. 6
3.1.4 Non-native Vegetation ................................................................................ 6
3.1.5 Disturbed Habitat ........................................................................................ 6
3.1.6 Developed ................................................................................................... 6
Plants ....................................................................................................................... 6
Animals ................................................................................................................... 7
SENSITIVE RESOURCES ................................................................................................ 7
4 I S ·1· V t 1· C ·1· 7 . ens11ve ege a 10n ommun1 1es ........................................................................ .
4.2 Special Status Plant Species .................................................................................... 7
4.3 Special Status Animal Species ................................................................................ 8
4.4 Special Status Species With Potential To Occur .................................................... 8
4.5 Wildlife Corridors ................................................................................................... 8
REGIONAL AND REGULATORY COJ\TEXT ............................................................... 9
5.1 Federal.. ................................................................................................................... 9
5.1.1 Endangered Species Act ............................................................................. 9
5.1.2 Migratory Bird Treaty Act.. ...................................................................... 10
5.1.3 Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972 ................................................... 10
5.2 State of California ................................................................................................. 10
5.2.1 California Environmental Quality Act. ..................................................... 10
5.2.2 California Endangered Species Act .......................................................... 10
5.2.3 Native Plant Protection Act ...................................................................... 11
Table of Contents (cont.)
Section Page
5.0 REGIONAL AND REGULATORY CONTEXT (cont.)
5.2.4 California Fish and Grune Code ................................................................ 11
5.2.5 California Natural Community Conservation Planning Act of 1991 ........ 11
5.2.6 California Coastal Actofl976 ................................................................. 12
5.3 North County Multiple Habitat Conservation Plan/Carlsbad Habitat
Management Plan .................................................................................................. 12
5.3.1 Zone Level Recommendations ................................................................. 13
5.3.2 Proposed Hardline Conservation Areas .................................................... 13
5 .3 .3 Coastal Zone Standards ............................................................................. 13
5.3.4 Special Conditions for Covered Species ................................................... 14
6.0 IMPACTS ......................................................................................................................... I 4
6. I Direct Impacts ....................................................................................................... 15
6.1.1 Vegetation Communities .......................................................................... 15
6. I .2 Plant Species ............................................................................................. I 5
6.1.3 Animal Species ......................................................................................... 16
6.1.4 Nesting Birds ............................................................................................ 16
6.1.5 Regional Context/Wildlife Corridors ........................................................ 16
6.2 Indirect Impacts .................................................................................................... 16
6.2.1 Noise ......................................................................................................... 16
6.2.2 Fire Management ...................................................................................... 16
6.2.3 Erosion Control ......................................................................................... 17
6.2.4 Invasive Plant Species ............................................................................... 17
6.2.5 Night Lighting ........................................................................................... 17
6.2.6 Fencing ...................................................................................................... 17
6.2.7 Predator and Exotic Species Control ........................................................ 17
7.0 MITIGATION ................................................................................................................... I 7
8.0
9.0
7.1 Direct Impacts ....................................................................................................... 18
7 .1.1 Vegetation Communities .......................................................................... 18
7.1.2 Special Status Animal Species .................................................................. 19
7.1.3 Nesting Birds ............................................................................................ 19
7.2 Indirect Impacts .................................................................................................... 20
7.2. I Noise ......................................................................................................... 20
7 .2.2 Erosion Control ......................................................................................... 20
7 .2.3 Invasive Plant Species ............................................................................... 20
7.2.4 Night Lighting ........................................................................................... 20
7.2.5 Fencing ...................................................................................................... 21
7.2.6 Predator and Exotic Species Control ........................................................ 21
7.3 Level of Significance After Mitigation ................................................................. 21
LIST OF PREPARERS ..................................................................................................... 22
REFERENCES ................................................................................................................. 23
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A
B
C
D
E
F
Table of Contents (cont.)
LIST OF APPENDICES
Plant Species Observed in 2016
Animal Species Observed or Detected
Special Status Plant Species With Potential to Occur
Special Status Animal Species With Potential to Occur
Explanation of Status Codes For Plant and Animal Species
20 I 6 CAGN Survey Report
LIST OF FIGURES
No. Title Follows Page
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
No.
1
2
3
4
Regional Location Map ........................................................................................................ 2
Project Vicinity (USGS Topography) .................................................................................. 2
Project Vicinity (Aerial Photograph) .................................................................................. .2
Soils ...................................................................................................................................... 2
Site Plan ............................................................................................................................... 2
2016 Vegetation and Sensitive Resources ........................................................................... 6
2016 Vegetation, Sensitive Resources, and Impacts ......................................................... 14
Diegan Coastal Sage Scrub Restoration Plan .................................................................... 18
LIST OF TABLES
Title
2016 Survey Information ..................................................................................................... 3
Existing Vegetation Communities ....................................................................................... 5
Impacts To Vegetation Communities ................................................................................ 15
Mitigation Summary For Impacts To Vegetation Communities ....................................... 18
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This report describes existing biological conditions for the 15.06-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 to project development include the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), Carlsbad Habitat Management Plan (HMP), North County
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 level (ams!).
Surrounding land is composed of residential developments that completely surround the site. The
site is within the Carlsbad HMP.
A general biological survey consisting of vegetation mapping and a general plant and animal
survey was conducted on January 18, 2016. Focused surveys for the coastal California
gnatcatcher (Polioptila cal[fornica californica) were conducted on February 19. February 26,
and March 10, 2016, and rare plant surveys were performed on April 11 and June 22, 2016.
Six vegetation communities/land cover types occur within the project site: Diegan coastal sage
scrub (including disturbed), native grassland, non-native grassland, non-native vegetation,
disturbed habitat, and developed land. Two special status plant species have been found within
the project site: small-flower bindweed (Convolvulus simulans) and ashy spike-moss (Selaginella
cinerascens). Two special status animal species were observed within the project site: coastal
California gnatcatcher and Cooper's hawk (Accipiter cooperii).
Significant impacts would occur to 2.1 acres of Diegan coastal sage scrub (including disturbed),
2.4 acres of disturbed habitat, I .0 acre of non-native vegetation, and 0.1 acre of developed land
upon implementation of the proposed project. Mitigation for impacts to Diegan coastal sage
scrub includes creation of 5.19 acres of Diegan coastal sage scrub on site in what is currently
non-native vegetation, disturbed habitat, or developed land. 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. No mitigation is
required for impacts to non-native vegetation and developed lands as they are not considered
sensitive.
No special status plant species would be impacted by the proposed project. Significant impacts to
the federally listed threatened coastal California gnatcatcher and Carlsbad HMP covered
Cooper's hawk will be covered by the mitigation program resulting from impacts to the Diegan
coastal sage scrub as well as additional measures to protect nesting gnatcatcher and raptors.
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HELIX -----------------------------------Biological Technical Repott for the Aure Orcle Project/ P/..H-011 September 7, 2016 --
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1.0 INTRODUCTION
This Biological Technical Report (BTR) presents the results of biological resources studies
conducted by HELIX Environmental Planning, Inc. (HELIX) for the Aura Circle Project
(project) proposed by Pacific Legacy Homes (project applicant). The study was conducted to
provide the City of Carlsbad (City), resource agencies, and the public with current biological
data to satisfy review of the proposed project under the California Environmental Quality Act
(CEQA) and to demonstrate compliance with federal, State, and local regulations, including the
Carlsbad Habitat Management Plan (Carlsbad HMP). The approximately 15.06-acre project
involves the construction of residential housing.
This report describes the project's current biological conditions, vegetation communities, and
plant and wildlife species observed or detected during surveys, and identifies those resources that
are sensitive or of special status. It also identifies sensitive species with potential to occur on the
project site. Additionally, project impacts are assessed, and mitigation is proposed to offset the
project's unavoidable, significant impacts to sensitive/special status biological resources.
I. I LOCATION
The 15.06-acre project site is located south of Tamarack Avenue and west of El Camino Real
within the City of Carlsbad (City), San Diego County, California (Figure 1). The project site is
further located within the Agua Hedionda land grant of the U.S. Geological Survey 7.5-minute
San Luis Rey quadrangle map (Figure 2). The property lies between residential communities
along Kelly Drive to the east and Avila Avenue to the west and is within the City's Habitat
Management Program. The property is within the Coastal Zone and includes Proposed Hardline
Conservation Area within Local Facilities Management Zone (LFMZ) 1. An aerial photograph of
the site is provided as Figure 3.
1.2 PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION AND LAND USE
The site includes two small ridgelines with gently sloping hillsides, surrounded by areas of
predominantly disturbed areas. Vegetation 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 (ams!). The soil type on site consists primarily of Las Flores Loamy Fine Sand,
15 to 30 percent slopes (Figure 4).
1.3 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The proposed project is a 9-lot residential subdivision. The lots arc located along the west side of
Aura Circle, a cul-de-sac that will extend onto the subject property. The project will be
constructed on a slope, with a cut slope above the backs of the lots, and a fill slope below the
cul-de-sac. The fill slopes include an extra 10 feet of assumed impact to allow for keying in of
new slopes. A site plan of the proposed project is included as Figure 5.
Newly graded slopes outside the preserve will be landscaped with a typical landscape palette.
The backs of each lot and the east side of Aura Circle will have a 6-foot tubular steel fence that
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Biological Technical Report for the Aura Circle Project I PLH-011 September 15. 2016
will help keep people out of the landscaped slopes. The landscaped slopes will have a 6-foot
chain link environmental fence that separates the HOA maintained slopes from the adjacent
preserve. The outside edge of the open space will have a 6-foot chain link fence along the
property line. Brush management wnes that interface with the preserve (north of Lot 9 and
adjacent to an off-site home north of the property) will have a native, fire resistant plant palette
that is compatible with the preserve but also does not introduce fire prone vegetation.
All brush management zones for the new project will be kept out of the preserve. The north side
of Lot 9 includes a 6-foot masonry wall that keeps the required brush management wne at
30 feet as measured from the edge of the lot. The outside edge of the brush management zone is
bounded by the 6-foot environmental fence that delineates the limits of HOA maintained brush
management.
2.0 METHODS
A number of different surveys have been conducted to document biological resources present
within the project site including focused surveys for special status species. Surveys presented in
this report were conducted by HELIX in 2016 (Table I).
2.1 LITERATURE REVIEW
Prior to HELIX's surveys, searches of the California Department Fish and Wildlife's (CDFW)
California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB), California Native Plant Society's (CNPS)
Inventory of Rare and Endangered Plants (CNPS 2016), Calflora database, and U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service (USFWS) species databases were performed for information regarding special
status species knovm to occur within the vicinity of the project. HELIX also reviewed available
literature from previous studies including a previous BTR prepared by HELIX in 2007
(HELIX 2007).
2.2 GENERAL BIOLOGICAL SURVEY
A general biological survey of the project site was conducted by HELIX on January 28, 2016
(Table 1 ). The general biological survey included vegetation mapping, plant and animal
inventories, habitat assessments for special status species, and mapping of sensitive resources
detected at the time of the survey. Vegetation communities/land cover types were mapped on a
1 "=200' scale aerial photograph of the project site. Vegetation communities were identified by
walking the project site during field surveys. Vegetation communities were mapped according to
Holland ( 1986), as modified by Oberbauer (2008). All observed or detected plant and animal
species were recorded in field notes and/or on an aerial photograph (the latter for special status
species). A Global Positioning System (GPS) was used to record individual locations of special
status species.
Complete lists of all plant and animal species observed or detected are included in Appendices A
and B, respectively. Animal identifications were made in the field by direct, visual observation,
or indirectly by detection of calls, burrows, tracks, or scat. All plant identifications were made in
the field or in the lab through comparison with voucher specimens or photographs. In addition to
HELIX
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the general biological survey, HELIX conducted focused surveys for rare plants and coastal
California gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica californica; CAGN). See Table 1 for a list of
survey dates.
Table 1
2016 SURVEY INFORMATION
Date Personnel Survey Type
January 18, 2016 Erica Harris General biological survey, vegetation
manninf!., habitat assessment
February 19, 2016 Erica Harris Coastal Californja gnatcatcher survey #1
Hermes cooper habitat assessment
February 26, 2016 Erica Harris Coastal California gnatcatcher survey #2 Ben Rosenbaum*
Erica Harris
March 10, 2016 Ben Rosenbaum* Coastal California gnatcatcher survey #3
Katie Bellon*
April 11, 2016 Amy Mattson Spring rare plant survey Talaya Rachels
June 22, 2016 Amy Mattson Summer rare plant survey .. *Supervised md1v1dual
2.3 RARE PLANT SURVEY
HELIX conducted surveys for rare plants within the project site on April 11 and June 22, 2016
(Table 1 ). Rare plants investigated included those that are listed as threatened or endangered by
the USFWS or the CDFW, those that listed as rare by the CNPS, as well as narrow endemic
species listed in the Carlsbad HMP. The project site was traversed by foot and all habitat areas
were inspected for the presence of rare plant species. Rare plant species also were looked for
opportunistically during other surveys.
2.4 COAST AL CALIFORNIA GNATCA TCHER SURVEY
The survey consisted of three site visits that were performed in accordance with the current
(1997) USFWS protocol by permitted biologist Erica Harris (Table 1; TE-778195-13). The
survey covered all potential CAGN habitat composed of Diegan coastal sage scrub (including
disturbed). The surveys were conducted by walking along the edges of, as well as within,
suitable CAGN habitat. The survey route was arranged to ensure complete survey coverage of all
habitat with potential for occupancy by CAGN. All surveys were conducted with binoculars to
aid in bird detection. Recorded CAGN vocalizations were played sparingly and only if other
means of detection had failed. If a gnatcatcher was detected before playing recorded
vocalizations, the recordings were not played. Once CAGNs were initially detected in an area,
use of playback was discontinued.
2.5 HERMES COPPER BUTTERFLY HABIT AT ASSESSMENT
HELIX biologists conducted a habitat assessment for the Hermes copper butterfly (Lycaena
hermes) according to the County 's Guidelines for Hermes Copper (County 2010). Potential
HELIX
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8iological Technical Report for the Aura Circle Project I PLH-011 September 15, 2016 3
habitat for Hennes copper consist of California buckwheat (Eriogonum Jasciculatum), the
species' favored nectar plant, located within 15 feet of a mature spiny redberry (Rhamnus
crocea) shrub, the species· host plant.
2.6 SURVEY LIMITATIONS
All noted animal species were identified by direct observation, vocalizations, or the observance
of scat, tracks, or other signs. However, the lists of species identified are not necessarily
comprehensive accounts of all species that occur on the site, as species that are nocturnal,
secretive, or seasonally restricted may not have been observed.
2.7 NOMENCLATURE
Nomenclature used in this report follows Baldwin et al. (2012) for scientific names of plants,
while common names follow the California Native Plant Society (CNPS 2016). Other
conventions used are Holland (1986) and Oberbauer (2008) for vegetation communities,
Glassberg (2001) and Heath (2004) for butterflies; Crother (2012) for reptiles and amphibians,
American Ornithologist's Union (2016) for birds, and Baker et al. (2003) for mammals. Plant
species sensitivity status is from the CDFW Special Plant List (CDFW 2016a) and CNPS (2016).
Animal species sensitivity status is from the CDFW Special Animal list (CDFW 2016b).
3.0 EXISTING CONDITIONS
Survey results for vegetation communities, plant species, and animal species are presented in the
following section. These results include sensitive vegetation communities present and special
status species either observed or with potential to occur in the project site.
3.1 VEGETATION COMMUNITIES
The Carlsbad HMP (City of Carlsbad 2004) also divides vegetation communities into 6 Habit.at
Groups (A through F).
Carlsbad
Habitat
Grouo Habitat Tvne and Descrintion
Coastal salt marsh, alkali marsh, freshwater marsh, estuarine, salt pan/mudflats, riparian
A forest, riparian woodland, riparian scrub, vernal pools, disturbed wetlands. flood
channel, freshwater Em•elmann oak woodland, coast live oak woodland
B Beach, southern coastal bluff scrub, maritime succulent scrub. southern maritime
chaoarral, native l!rassland
C Gnatcatcher-occuoied coastal saoe scrub
D Unoccupied coastal sage scrub. coastal sage/chaparral mix, chaparral (excluding
southern maritime chanarran
E Annual <non-native) Qfassland
F Disturbed land, eucalvntus, aQricultural lands
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Biologica, Technical Report for the Aura Circle Project I PLH-011 September 15, 2016 4
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introduced annual species. Native grasslands occur throughout California as small isolated
islands.
A total of 0.05 acre of native grassland occurs within the project site. The dominant species
observed include purple needle grass.
3.1.3 Non-native Grassland
Non-native grassland typically supports a sparse to dense cover of annual grasses often
associated with numerous species of showy-flowered native annual forbs. This association
occurs on gradual slopes with deep, fine-textured, usually clay soils. Most of the annual,
introduced species that make up 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 grasslands are common throughout San Diego County.
Typical species observed in this habitat on site include ripgut grass (Bromus diandrus), soft
chess (Bromus hordaceus), and barley (Hordeum murinum).
A total of 0.02 acre of non-native grassland occurs within the project site. Dominant species
include wild oat (Avena spp.).
3.1.4 Non-Native Vegetation
Non-native vegetation is a category describing stands of naturalized trees or shrubs, many of
which are also used in ornamental landscaping. On site, this habitat consists of small stands of
Peruvian pepper tree (Schinus molle) and golden wattle (Acacia sp.), as well as carpets of
hottentot fig (Carpobrotus edulis) and slenderleaf iceplant (Mesembryanthemum nodijlorum).
This habitat occupies 1. 7 acres within the project site.
3.1.5 Disturbed Habitat
Disturbed habitat includes land that has little or no habitat value because it has been cleared of
vegetation for agricultural purposes or contains heavily compacted soils following disturbance
such as grading. Disturbed habitat on site includes heavily disturbed soils dominated by annual
non-native vegetation such as filaree (Erodium spp.), wild-oat, castor bean (Ricinus communis),
and mustard (Brassica sp.). Approximately 6.4 acres of disturbed habitat occur within the project
site.
3.1.6 Developed
Developed land is where permanent structures and/or pavement have been placed, which
prevents the growth of vegetation, or where landscaping is clearly tended and maintained.
Developed portions of the site consist of a concrete pad and landscaping located along the
western and northern boundaries adjacent to existing residential development. Approximately
0.9 acre of the project site is developed.
3.2 PLANTS
A total of 109 plant species were observed within the project site (Appendix A).
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3.3 ANIMALS
Thirty-seven animal species were observed or detected within the study area during surveys and
include 4 invertebrate (butterfly) species, 2 reptile species, 29 bird species, and 2 mammal
species (Appendix B).
4.0 SENSITIVE RESOURCES
This section discusses any sensitive vegetation and special status 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 North
County Multiple Habitat Conservation Project (MHCP; AMEC 2003) 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 CDFW, are listed as sensitive under the Carlsbad HMP, are targeted for conservation
under the state's NCCP Program, or support special status plants or animals. Diegan coastal sage
scrub, native grassland, and non-native grassland are considered sensitive vegetation
communities.
4.2 SPECIAL STATUS PLANT SPECIES
No federal or state listed threatened or endangered plant species were observed within the project
site. Two special status plant species have been found within the project site: small-flower
bindweed (Convolvulus simulans) and ashy spike-moss (Selaginella cinerascens). Listing or
special status ranking in the species accounts below include federal/state, followed by CNPS •
and then MHCP/HMP coverage, if applicable. An explanation of listing or sensitivity codes can
be found in Appendix E.
Small-flowered morning-glory (Convolvulus simulans)
Listing: --/--; CNPS List 4.2
Distribution: Scattered locations from the foothills to the coast in southern California and Baja
California, Mexico. Species rare in southern California.
Habitat: Coastal clay areas in openings of chaparral, sage scrub, and grasslands
Status on site: Approximately 3,100 plants were observed within the northern and eastern
portions of the site, primarily within disturbed habitat (Figure 6).
Ashy spike-moss (Se/aginella cinerascens)
Listing: --/--; CNPS List 4.1
Distribution: Orange and San Diego counties; northwestern Baja California, Mexico
Habitat: Flat mesas in coastal sage scrub and chaparral. A good indicator of lack of site
degradation, as it rarely inhabits disturbed soils.
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Biological Technical Report for the Aura Circle Project I PLH-011 September 15, 2016
Status on site: Found in four locations within disturbed Diegan coastal sage scrub within the
northern portion of the site (Figure 6).
4.3 SPECIAL STATUS ANIMAL SPECIES
Suitable habitat for Hermes copper was not found within the project site. The species' larval host
plant, spiny redberry, was not detected within the project site during surveys. One federally listed
species have been observed or detected within the study area: coastal California gnatcatcher. One
additional special status animal species, Cooper's hawk (Accipiter cooperii) was also observed
or detected within the project site. A brief description of each special status animal species
observed or detected within the project site is provided below. Listing or special status ranking in
the species accounts below includes federal/state followed by MHCP/HMP coverage, if
applicable. An explanation of listing or sensitivity codes can be found in Appendix E.
Coastal California gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica californica)
Listing or Sensitivity: FT/SSC; MHCP/HMP Covered
Distribution: Historically occurred south of the Transverse Ranges and west of the Peninsular
Ranges, rarely north into Ventura County. Southern Los Angeles, Orange, western Riverside,
and San Diego counties south into Baja
Habitat(s): Diegan coastal sage scrub and other similar open scrub habitats in coastal areas,
with most populations occurring below 1,500 feet in elevation.
Status on site: Two pairs of gnatcatchers were observed within the project site during focused
surveys for the species (HELIX 2016; Appendix F). One pair was observed nesting building
along the northern slope and second pair was observed foraging along the southern slope
(Figure 6).
Cooper's hawk (Accipiter cooperil)
Status: BCC/SSC: MHCP/HMP Covered
Distribution: Occurs year-round throughout the County's coastal slope where stands of trees
are present
Habitat(s): Oak groves, mature riparian woodlands, and eucalyptus stands or other mature
forests.
Status on site: A single Cooper's hawk was observed flying over western portion of the site
(Figure 6). The project site lacks suitable nesting habitat for the species and most likely provides
foraging habitat.
4.4 SPECIAL STATUS SPECIES WITH POTENTIAL TO OCCUR
Special status plant and animal species that have potential to occur on the project site are listed in
Appendices C and D, respectively. Appendix E includes status and sensitivity explanations and
codes for plants and animals.
4.5 WILDLIFE CORRIDORS
Wildlife corridors connect otherwise isolated pieces of habitat and allow movement or dispersal
of plants and animals. Local wildlife corridors allow access to resources such as food, water, and
shelter within the framework of their daily routine. For example, animals can use these corridors
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to travel between their riparian breeding habitats and their upland burrowing habitats. Regional
corridors provide these functions over a larger scale and link two or more large habitat areas,
allowing the dispersal of organisms and the consequent mixing of genes between populations. A
corridor is a specific route that is used for the movement and migration of species, and may be
different from a linkage in that it represents a smaller or narrower avenue for movement. A
linkage is an area of land that supports or contributes to the long-term movement of animals and
genetic exchange by providing live-in habitat that connects to other habitat areas. Many linkages
occur as stepping-stone linkages that are comprised of a fragmented archipelago arrangement of
habitat over a linear distance.
Important corridors and linkages have been identified on a local and regional scale throughout
the MHCP and Multiple Species Conservation Program (MSCP) planning areas in San Diego
County. The planning objectives of most corridors and linkages in coastal San Diego County
include establishing a connection between the northern and southern regional populations of the
coastal California gnatcatcher, in addition to facilitating movement and connectivity of habitat
for large mammals and riparian bird species. As part of the MHCP, the Carlsbad HMP includes
an assemblage of HMP Cores, Linkages, and Special Resource Areas (SRA), with objectives to
establish a network of habitat for the conservation of wildlife movement functions, primarily for
birds and mammals.
The project site is not 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 Carlsbad HMP.
5.0 REGIONAL AND REGULATORY CONTEXT
Biological resources within the project site are subject to regulatory administration by the federal
government, State of California, and City.
5.1 FEDERAL
5.1.1 Endangered Species Act
Administered by the USFWS, the federal Endangered Species Act (ESA) provides the legal
framework for the listing and protection of species that are identified as being endangered or
threatened with extinction. Actions that jeopardize such species and their habitats are considered
a "take" under the federal ESA. No federally listed animal species were observed on site.
Sections 7 and 10(a) of the federal ESA regulate actions that could harm or harass endangered or
threatened species. Section 1 O(a) allows issuance of permits for "incidental" take of endangered
or threatened species. The term "incidental" applies if the taking of the listed species is
secondary to, and not the purpose of, an otherwise lav-.ful activity. A conservation plan
demonstrating how the take will be minimized and what steps taken would ensure the listed
species' survival must be submitted for the issuance of Section lO(a) permits. Section 7 describes
a process of federal interagency consultation for use when federal actions may adversely affect
listed species. A biological assessment is required for any major activity if it may affect listed
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Biological Technical Report for the Aura Circle Project I PLH-011 September 15, 2016 9
species. The Carlsbad HMP has been formally approved, which provides take authorization
under Section I0(a).
5.1.2 Migratory Bird Treaty Act
All migratory bird species that are native to the United States or its territories are protected under
the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) as amended under the Migratory Bird Treaty
Reform Act (MBTRA) of 2004 (FR Doc. 05-5127). The MBTA specifically prohibits the take of
birds or bird nests. "Take" is defined in 50 CFR 10.12 as means to pursue or attempt to pursue to
hunt shoot, wound, kill, trap, capture, or collect. Only "collect" applies to nests (USFWS 2003).
In common practice, USFWS places restrictions on disturbances allowed near active nests of
raptors, such as red-tailed hawks and burrowing owls.
5.1.3 Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972
The Coastal Zone Management Act (CZMA) creates a broad program for the management of
coastal lands based on land development control. It was enacted to encourage the participation
and cooperation of state, local, regional, and federal agencies and governments having programs
affecting the coastal zone. The CZMA allows state involvement through the development of
Coastal Zone Management Plans (CZMP) for comprehensive management at the state level. The
CZMPs define permissible land and water use within the state coastal zone. This coastal zone
extends 3 miles seaward and inland as far as necessary to protect the coast. The CZMA also
requires federal agencies or licensees to carry out their activities in such a way that they conform
to the maximum extent practicable with a state's coastal zone management program. The
California Coastal Act is California's coastal zone management program under the CZMA. This
program is discussed below. The site falls within the Coastal Zone.
5.2 STA TE OF CALIFORNIA
S.2.1 California Environmental Quality Act
Primary environmental legislation in California is provided by the CEQA and its implementing
guidelines (State CEQA Guidelines), requiring that projects with potential adverse effects or
impacts on the environment undergo environmental review. Adverse impacts to the environment
are typically mitigated as a result of the environmental review process in accordance with
existing laws and regulations.
5.2.2 California Endangered Species Act
The California ESA (CESA) declares that deserving plant or animal species will be given
protection by the state because they are of ecological, educational, historical, recreational,
aesthetic, economic, and scientific value to the people of the state. CESA establishes that it is
state policy to conserve, protect, restore, and enhance endangered species and their habitats.
Under state law, plant and animal species may be formally designated as rare, threatened, or
endangered through official listing by the California Fish and Game Commission. Listed species
are given greater attention during the land use planning process by local governments, public
agencies. and landowners than are species that have not been listed.
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CESA authorizes that "[p ]rivate entities may take plant or wildlife species listed as endangered
or threatened under FESA and CESA, pursuant to a federal ITP issued in accordance with
Section 10 of the FESA, if the CDFW certifies that the ITS or ITP is consistent with CESA (Fish
and Grune Code Section 2080.l(a)). Section 2081(b) and (c) of the CESA allows CDFG to issue
an ITP for a state-listed threatened and endangered species only if specific criteria are met. These
criteria can be found in Title 14 CCR, Sections 783.4(a) and (b). No Section 208l(b) permit may
authorize the take of "fully protected" species and "specified birds." If a project is planned in an
area where a fully protected species or specified bird occurs, an applicant must design the project
to avoid all take; the CDFW cannot provide take authorization under CESA. On private property,
endangered plants may also be protected by the Native Plant Protection Act (NPPA) of 1977 .
Threatened plants are protected by CESA, and rare plants are protected by the NPPA; however,
CESA authorizes that "Private entities may take plant species listed as endangered or threatened
W1der the FESA and CESA through a federal ITP issued pursuant to Section 10 of the FESA, if
the CDFG certifies that the ITS or ITP is consistent with CESA" In addition, CEQA requires
disclosure of any potential impacts on listed species and alternatives or mitigation that would
reduce those impacts. The Carlsbad HMP was prepared pursuant to Section 2081 of the CESA
and the City was issued an umbrella Section 2081 ITP from the CDFG authorizing take of
multiple state listed species .
5.2.3 Native Plant Protection Act
The Native Plant Protection Act (NPPA) enacted a process by which plants are listed as rare or
endangered. The NPPA regulates collection, transport, and commerce in listed plants. The
California ESA followed the NPPA and covers both plants and animals determined to be
endangered or threatened with extinction. Plants listed as rare under NPPA were designated rare
under the California ESA.
5.2.4 California Fish and Game Code
Pursuant to California Fish and Game Code Section 3503, it is unlawful to take, possess, or
needlessly destroy the nest or eggs of any bird, except as otherwise provided by this code or any
regulation made pursuant thereto. Raptors and owls and their active nests are protected by
California Fish and Game Code Section 3503.5, which states that it is unlawful to take, possess,
or destroy any birds of prey or to take, possess, or destroy the nest or eggs of any such bird
unless authorized by the CDFW.
The California Fish and Game Code (Sections 1600 et seq.) requires issuance of a Lake and
Streambed Alteration Agreement by CDFW for projects affecting riparian and wetland habitats.
5.2.5 California Natural Community Consenation Planning Act of 1991
The NCCP Act is designed to conserve habitat-based natural communities at the ecosystem scale
while accommodating compatible land uses in coordination with CESA. CDFW is the principal
state agency implementing the NCCP Program. The Act established a process to allow for
comprehensive, long-term, regional, multi-species, and habitat-based planning in a manner that
satisfies the requirements of the state and FESAs (through a companion regional habitat
conservation plan). The NCCP program has provided the framework for innovative efforts by the
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a;oIogicaI Technical Report for the Aura Circle Project I PLH--011 September 15, 2016 ii
state, local governments, and private interests, to plan for the protection of regional biodiversity
and the ecosystems upon which they depend. NCCPs seek to ensure the long-term conservation
of multiple species, while allowing for compatible and appropriate economic activity to proceed.
The Carlsbad HMP was prepared as part of the MHCP subregional planning pursuant to the
NCCP Act.
5.2.6 California Coastal Act of 1976
The California Coastal Act (CCA) provides for the protection of environmentally sensitive
habitat identified by the CDFW from adjacent developments in the coastal zone. The CCA is
California's coastal zone management program under the CZMA, discussed above. The CCA
establishes the California Coastal Commission (CCC) as having jurisdiction over California's
coastal zone. The CCA identifies environmentally sensitive habitat areas as any area 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. Compliance with requirements in the CCA is ensured for specific
development projects in the coastal zone through issuance of a Coastal Development Permit
(CDP). In most incorporated areas within the coastal zone, compliance with the Coastal Act is
regulated by local government through the implementation of a certified Local Coastal Program
(LCP). The local government typically issues CDPs, unless a project is located within a deferred
certification area, such as the Agua Hedionda Lagoon segment of the Carlsbad LCP. CDPs are
issued by the CCC in deferred certification areas of the certified LCP. The City implements their
approved Carlsbad LCP in regulating developments within the coastal zone according to the
CRPOZ Ordinance, as discussed below. CDPs issued by the City are appealable to the CCC only
if they are located within an appeals area.
5.3 NORTH COUNTY MULTIPLE HABITAT CONSERY ATION PLAN/CARLSBAD
HABITAT MANAGEMENT PLAN
One of the primary objectives of large-scale subregional planning efforts such as the North
County MHCP (and the subarea Carlsbad 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 (large blocks of habitat) and
linkages/wildlife corridors. The Carlsbad 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 Carlsbad HMP.
Qualitative values were assigned to habitats according to a number of parameters including
wildlife, vegetation, and biogeography. Using this information, the Carlsbad HMP has identified
core biological resource areas that are 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 to prioritize which sites have the highest
biological value.
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In the context of the Carlsbad HMP, the Aura Circle property is located within LFMZ 1. The site
is located outside of the Carlsbad HMP's designated Cores, Linkages, and Special Resource
Areas but is identified as a Proposed Hardline Conservation Area (Figure 7) to be part of the
HMP Preserve .
5.3.1 Zone Level Recommendations
Within LFMZ 1, the Carlsbad 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 Carlsbad HMP species, such as
pelicans, terns, and rails. None of these species occurs on site .
5.3.2 Proposed Hardline Consenration Areas
The Carlsbad HMP defines the site as a Proposed Hardline Conservation Area. 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. 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 is
required between all preserved habitat areas (i.e., Diegan coastal sage scrub) and development
(City 2004). The project provides that buffer by keeping all fuel modification areas at least
20 feet away from the preserve. 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.
5.3.3 Coastal Zone Standards
Additional conservation standards are to be applied to properties in the Coastal Zone. For the
subject property, these include:
Environmentally sensitive areas as defined in Section 30107.5 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" are 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 hwnan
activities and developments. The project would preserve 65.7 percent of the Diegan coastal sage
scrub on site and would create an additional 5.19 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 65. 7 percent of the Diegan coastal sage scrub on site. Although
the project impacts 2.1 acres (35 percent) of the 6.0 acres of coastal sage scrub on site, the
project would create 5.19 acres of coastal sage scrub on site that (a mitigation ratio of
approximately 2.5:1), in addition to the remaining 3.94 acres of coastal sage scrub preserved on
site, equals 9.13 acres of coastal sage scrub preserved on site post-project.
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Biologica/ Technical Report for the Aura Circle Project I PLH-01/ September 15, 2016 13
There shall be no net loss of Diegan coastal sage scrub. The project would impact 2.1 acres of
coastal sage scrub on site but would create 5.19 acres of coastal sage scrub on site, a mitigation
ratio of approximately 2.5: 1, for a net increase of 3.08 acres.
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
3.09 acres of Diegan coastal sage scrub on site.
5.3.4 Special Conditions for Covered Species
Special conditions may apply to those covered species classified as narrow endemics. In the
Carlsbad HMP, narrow endemic species are defined as those with, "restricted geographic
distributions, soil affinities and/or habitats, and or for purposes of the Carlsbad HMP, species
that in addition have important populations within the plan area, such that substantial loss of
these populations or their habitat with the Carlsbad HMP area might jeopardize the continued
existence or recovery of that species." No narrow endemic species were observed on site.
The coastal California gnatcatcher is a covered species under the Carlsbad 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 restrict human disturbance; (2) prepare and implement a fire management
program for preserve areas as part of a detailed 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 opportm1ities within constrained linkages.
Cooper's hawk is also a covered species under the Carlsbad HMP; as such, it is recommended
that all projects adhere to the following management measures: (1) manage preserve areas to
minimize disturbances in breeding habitat, restrict removal of oak trees and riparian vegetation,
restrict building of trails or roads immediately adjacent to or through breeding areas, and restrict
introduction of pesticides or other contaminants; (2) to the extent practicable, design project to
maintain appropriate distances between development and nest sites; (3) protect documented nest
sites during breeding season; and ( 4) where appropriate, enhance oak and riparian woodland
habitats.
6.0 IMPACTS
The following section describes potential direct and indirect impacts associated with the
proposed Aura Circle project. Direct impacts are described based on the grading limits and
associated brush management limits (Figure 7). Indirect impacts include project impacts such as
noise and lighting that do not directly remove vegetation and sensitive resources, but may
indirectly affect the long-term viability of sensitive species on site. The magnitude of an indirect
impact can be the same as a direct impact; however, the effect usually takes a longer time to
become apparent.
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6.l DIRECT IMP ACTS
6.1.l Vegetation Communities
Vegetation communities that would be impacted following implementation of the proposed
project include Diegan coastal sage scrub (2.1 acres), disturbed habitat (2.4 acres), non-native
vegetation (1.0 acre), and developed (0.1 acre). All proposed impacts to vegetation communities
are considered to be permanent. No temporary impacts are proposed. Project impacts are shown
in Table 3 and depicted on Figure 6.
Table3
IMPACTS TO VEGETATION COMMUNITIES (acres)
Remaining
Vegetation Community Existing Impacts After
I moacts
Habitat Grouo B*
Native grassland 0.05 0.0 0.05
Habitat Grouo C
Diegan coastal sage scrub 6.0 2.1 3.9 (including disturbed)
Habitat Grouo E
Non-native grassland 0.02 0.0 0.02
Habitat Grouo F
Disturbed habitat 6.4 2.4 4.0
Other
Non-Native Vegetation 1.7 1.0 0.7
Developed 0.9 0.1 0.8
TOTAL 15.06 5.6 9.46
*Habitat Groups refer to the Carlsbad I-IMP habitat classification system
Impacts to 2.1 acres of Diegan coastal sage scrub (including disturbed) would be considered
significant and would require mitigation. The Diegan coastal sage scrub is currently occupied by
the coastal California gnatcatcher.
Impacts to disturbed habitat and ornamental/non-native vegetation would be less than significant
due to the fact these are non-native habitat types and have been demonstrated not to support any
sensitive biological resources within the proposed impact area. However, impacts to disturbed
habitat and ornamental/non-native vegetation would require preservation of equivalent or
superior habitat onsite or payment of a Habitat Development Fee to the City in order to
demonstrate consistency with the Carlsbad HMP and project compliance with City policy.
6.1.2 Plant Species
The proposed development of the Aura Circle property would not impact any special status plant
species (Figure 7).
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Biological Technical Report for the Aura Circle Project I PLH-01/ September 15, 2016 15
6.1.3 Animal Species
The proposed activities on the project site would directly impact the coastal California
gnatcatcher through removal of occupied habitat. This impact is considered significant.
6.1.4 Nestine; Birds
Potential direct impacts to bird species covered under the MBTA could occur if brushing and
grading occurs during the breeding season of most bird species (general breeding season 1s
February 15 through August 31 ). These impacts are considered potentially significant.
6.1.5 Regional Context/Wildlife Corridors
The project site is not 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. As such, no impacts to
wildlife corridors would occur as part of the project.
6.2 INDIRECT IMPACTS
The proposed project is adjacent to a Proposed Hardline Conservation Area (i.e., the HMP
Preserve). In order to prevent negative effects of the proposed development on the HMP
Preserve, certain adjacency standards must be considered. Potential indirect impacts that could
result from the proposed project include those associated with temporary construction activities
and edge effects from the placement of permanent developments in the vicinity of areas
supporting sensitive habitat. Potential indirect impacts of the proposed project could include
those associated with noise, fire management, erosion control, invasive plant species, night
lighting, fencing, and predator and exotic species control, as described in further detail below.
6.2.1 Noise
Noise from grading, grubbing, and vehicular traffic would be a temporary impact to local
wildlife, including special status bird species with the potential to breed onsite. Noise impacts
would be considered significant if special status species, coastal California gnatcatcher or raptor
species were displaced and failed to breed. Breeding mammals and birds may temporarily leave
the project vicinity during construction activities; however, they would be expected to return
afterward once the noise impact has been eliminated because the habitat will remain in place and
viable for reoccupation by the displaced species. Noise levels during grading at the grading/open
space interface throughout the site would be in excess of 60 dBA LEQ-Such noise impacts to
nesting coastal California gnatcatchers or raptor species would be considered significant.
6.2.2 Fire Manae;ement
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 structure
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 lot line clearly demarcating the backyard from the Zone 3
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boundary. In addition, native, low-fuel plant species would be installed within the 20-foot wide
Zone 3 area, and an environmental fence will be located within the Zone 3 area and the preserve
so that future HOA maintenance can occur and not disturb the preserve. As such, implementation
of fire management requirements would result in a less than significant impact.
6.2.3 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.
6.2.4 Invasive Plant Species
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.
Invasive plants have potential to spread from deYeloped or disturbed areas to adjacent native
habitats. Such invasive species can displace native vegetation reducing the diversity of native
habitats and potentially increasing flammability, changing ground and surface water levels, and
adversely affecting native wildlife.
6.2.5 Night Lighting
Night lighting exposes wildlife species to an unnatural light regime and may alter their behavior
patterns, causing them to have lower reproductive success, and thus reducing species diversity.
All exterior lighting adjacent to preserved habitat shall be limited to low pressure sodium sources
of the lowest illumination allowed for human safety, selectively placed, shielded, and directed
away from preserved habitat to the maximum extent practicable. Therefore, impacts due to night
lighting would be considered less than significant.
6.2.6 Fencing
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.
6.2.7 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 MITIGATION
The proposed project would significantly impact natural vegetation communities and species.
Mitigation measures would be required to reduce these impacts to below a level of significance.
The proposed mitigation measures are consistent with requirements of the Carlsbad HMP and its
addenda (City 2004).
HELIX -----------------------------------Biological Technical Reporl for the Aura Circle Project I PLH-011 September 15, 2016 17
7.1 DIRECT IMPACTS
7.1.1 Vegetation Communities
Impacts to upland vegetation communities in Groups B through E would be mitigated on site in
accordance with Table 11 of the Carlsbad HMP. Impacts to Group F commuruties may be
mitigated through on-site preservation of existing native habitats or subject to a Habitat
Development Fee.
Based on the requirements under the Carlsbad HMP, impacts to Diegan coastal sage scrub
(including disturbed) require mitigation at a 2:1 ratio because these habitats are considered to be
occupied by the coastal California gnatcatcher. Impacts to native grassland require mitigation at
a 3: 1 ratio and non-native grassland at a 0.5: 1 ratio. Since disturbed habitat has potential to
support a limited number of native plant and animal species, the Carlsbad HMP requires either
payment of a Habitat and Development Fee, or onsite preservation of higher quality habitats to
mitigate for impacts to these vegetation communities. Non-native vegetation and developed
lands are not sensitive vegetation communities and therefore do not require mitigation for
impacts.
Table 4
MITIGATION SUMMARY FOR IMPACTS TO
VEGETATION COMMUNITIES
Vegetation Community/Habitat Group Acreae:e
Existine: Impact
Habitat Group B*
Native grassland 0.5 0.00
Habitat Group Ct
Diegan coastal sage scrub 6.4 2.1 (including disturbed) -occupied
Habitat Group E
Non-native grassland 0.2 0.00
Habitat Group F
Disturbed habitat 6.4 2.4
Other
Non-native vegetation 1.7 1.0
Develooed 0.9 0.1
TOTAL 15.06 5.6
* Habitat Groups refer to the Carlsbad HMP habitat classification system
tMaximum avoidance and on-site conservation of Group C habitat is encouraged
Miti!!ation
Ratio Reouired
3: I 0.00
2:1 4.2
0.5: I 0.00
:I: 0.00
± 0.00
± 0.00
--4.2
t Habitat in this group which is not conserved or mitigated (in this case, excluding evel)'thing 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
± Not a sensitive vegetation community; no mitigation required.
Impacts to 2.1 acres of occupied Diegan coastal sage scrub shall be mitigated at a minimum ratio
of 2: 1, requiring 4.2 acres (Table 4). On-site preservation is not eligible for mitigation credit in
the coastal zone, thus mitigation shall be accomplished through on-site creation of 5.19 acres of
Diegan coastal sage scrub where disturbed habitat occurs on site (Figure 8). This shall result in
an approximate mitigation ratio of 2.5: 1, all of which shall be creation. All of the created Diegan
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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).
Per the Carlsbad HMP, impacts to 2.4 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 Special Status Animal Species
Consistent with the HMP, impacts to sens1t1ve animal species will be met through on-site
preservation of habitats capable of supporting these species. Impacts to the coastal California
gnatcatcher would be partly mitigated through the mitigation program for Diegan coastal sage
scrub. Impacts to occupied coastal sage scrub require the issuance of an Incidental Take Permit
from the City Planner. Additionally, to 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 during the CAGN breeding season (February 15 through August 31 ). If
clearing, grubbing, grading, or other construction activities would occur during the
gnatcatcher breeding season, a pre-construction survey shall be conducted to determine if
this species occurs within the areas impacted by noise. If there are no gnatcatchers
nesting (includes nest building or other breeding/nesting behavior) within this area,
development shall be allowed to proceed. However, if any gnatcatchers 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 3 J; or (2) a temporary noise barrier or berm shall be constructed at an appropriate
location within the development footprint (not within the proposed open space) to ensure
that noise levels are reduced to below 60 dBA. Alternatively, the use of construction
equipment could be scheduled to keep noise levels below 60 dB LEQ in lieu of or in
concert with a wall or other noise barrier.
Impacts to Cooper's hawk shall be mitigated by the on site creation of 5.19 acres of DCSS and
preservation 3.94 acres ofDiegan coastal sage scrub, which provides suitable foraging habitat for
the species. Additionally, a preconstruction nesting raptor survey shall be conducted as described
in Section 7.2.1. An impact avoidance area of 300 feet will be placed aroW1d any nesting site of
Cooper's hawk until any fledglings have left the nest or the nest is no longer active.
7.1.3 Nesting Birds
Potential direct impacts to nesting bird species covered under the MBTA will be mitigated by
restricting clearing and grading to outside of the general avian breeding season (February 15
through August 31). If vegetation clearing must occur during the avian breeding season, a
qualified biologist shall conduct a preconstruction survey for nesting birds no more than 7 days
prior to vegetation clearing. If no active nests are found, clearing can proceed. If active nests are
found, no clearing may take place within 300 feet of any active nest W1til a qualified biologist
determines that the nest is no longer active or has failed. The results of the pre-construction
nesting bird survey shall be reported to the City in a brief memo.
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7.2 INDIRECT IMPACTS
The proposed mitigation measures are consistent with the adjacency standards of the Carlsbad
HMP. ..
7.2.1 Noise
If project grading (other than clearing and grubbing of sensitive habitats) is necessary and
adjacent to preserved on-site habitat during the general avian breeding season (February 15
through August 31 ), a qualified biologist shall conduct pre-construction surveys in the adjacent
habitat for the coastal California gnatcatcher and nesting raptors. The survey shall begin not
more than 3 days prior to the beginning of grading activities. The Wildlife Agencies shall be
notified if any of these species are observed nesting within 500 feet of proposed grading
activities. No activities which would result in noise levels exceeding 60 dBA hourly LEQ within
this 500-foot buffer shall be allowed. Background noise shall be excluded from the 60 dBA
calculation. If grading activities are not completed prior to the breeding season, and any of these
species are present, and noise levels exceed this threshold, noise barriers shall be erected to
reduce noise impacts to occupied habitat to below 60 dBA hourly LEQ and/or the activities shall
be suspended. Impacts resulting from noise for non-listed species other than raptors are not
considered significant, and mitigation is not warranted.
7.2.2 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 are adequately stabilized ( e.g., with a binder) after planting to 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 are met.
7.2.3 Invasive Plant Species
No invasive plant species shall be utilized in landscaping plans and no species on the Cal-IPC
"Invasive Plant Inventory" list shall be included in erosion control plans. The project shall
control irrigation of landscaping adjacent to the HMP Preserve to prevent runoff into it.
7.2,4 Night Lighting
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).
Hfil~---------------
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7 .2.5 Fencing
The project includes 6-foot tubular fencing along the back of each lot and along the opposite side
of the cul-de-sac that will help keep people in their yards and on the street, and out of the
preserve. The project also includes a 6-foot chain link fence around the perimeter of property that
will separate the preserve from adjacent development, and 6-foot fence between the brush
management zones to be managed by the HOA and the preserve. The project shall install signs to
educate the public about the goals of the HMP Preserve and that prohibit access to it.
7.2.6 Predator and Exotic Species Control
The project shall educate homeowners regarding responsible pet 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 Diegan coastal sage scrub, disturbed habitat, coastal
California gnatcatcher, and Cooper's hawk as well as potentially significant indirect impacts,
would be rendered less than significant.
Hfl-J1,_ _____________ _
Biological Technical Report for the Aura Circle Project I PLH-011 September 15. 2016 21
8.0 LIST OF PREPARERS
The following individuals contributed to the fieldwork and/or preparation of this report.
Aleksandra Richards M.A., International Relations, University of San Diego, 2010
Amy Mattson
B.A., Communications, Emphasis in Print Journalism, California State
University Fullerton, 2008
M.S., Marine Biology, Scripps Institution of Oceanography, 1999
B.S., Biology, with a Marine Biology concentration, University of
California, Los Angeles, 1994
Benjamin Rosenbaum B.S., Biology, Emphasis in Ecology, San Diego State University, 2009
Erica Harris*
Katie Bellon
Nicholas Goates
Summer Schlageter
Talaya Rachels
Tom Huffman
*Primary report author
HELIX
B.S., Biology, emphasis in Zoology, San Diego State University, 2009
B.S., Biology, California State Polytechnic University, San Luis Obispo,
2009
Post-grad GIS certificate, University of Denver, 2011
B.A., Sociology, University of Colorado, Boulder, 2009
B.S., Environmental Management and Protection, California Polytechnic
State University, San Luis Obispo, 2015
Bachelor of Science, Botany, University of Hawaii at Manoa, 2013
M.P.A., Public Administration, San Diego State University, 1994
Graduate studies in Ecology, San Diego State University, 1981
B.S., Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Arizona, 1978
__ , _____________________________ _
Biological Technical Report for the Aure Circle Project I PLH-011 September 15, 2016 22
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9.0 REFERENCES
AMEC Earth & Environmental, Inc. 2003. Final MHCP Plan. March. URL:
http://www. sandag. o rg/?proj ectid=97 &fuseacti on=proj ects.detail
American Ornithologists' Union (AOU). 2016. AOU Checklist of North and Middle American
Birds (online checklist). URL: http://checklist.aou.org/taxa/
Baker, R.J., L.C. Bradley, R.D. Bradley, J.W. Dragoo, M.D. Engstrom, R.S. Hoffmann,
C.A. Jones, F. Reid, D.W. Rice, and C. Jones. 2003. Revised checklist of North
American mammals north of Mexico. Occasional Papers of the Museum, Texas Tech
University 223.
Baldwin, B. G., Goldman, D. H., Keil D. J., Patterson R., Rosatti, T. J. and Wilken, D. H. (eds.).
2012. The Jepson Manual: Vascular Plants of California. Second edition. Berkeley, CA:
University of California Press. 1568 pp.
California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW). 2016a. Special Vascular Plants,
Bryophytes, and Licens List. California Natural Diversity Database. April. URL:
https ://rum. df g.ca. gov IF ileHandl er.ashx ?DocwnentlD= 1 093 83 & inline
2016b Special Animal List. California Natural Diversity Database. April. URL:
https://rum.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocurnentID=l 09406&inline
California Native Plant Society (CNPS). 2016. Inventory of Rare and Endangered Plants.
-Internet searchable database. URL: http://wv,:w.rareplants.cnps.org/
-City of Carlsbad (City). 2004. Habitat Management Plan for Natural Communities in the City of
-Carlsbad. November.
County of San Diego (County). 2010. Report Format and Content Requirements Biological
-Resources. Fourth Revision. September 15. --
--
--
-
Crother, Brian I. 2012. The Scientific and Standard English and French Names of Amphibians
and Reptiles of North America North of Mexico, with Comments Regarding Confidence
in our Understanding. Seventh Editions. Committee on Standard English and Scientific
Names. SSAR Herpetological Circular No. 39.
Glassberg, J. 2001. Butterflies through Binoculars. The West. A Field Guide to the Butterflies of
Western North America. Oxford University Press. New York.
Heath, Fred. 2004. An Introduction to Southern California Butterflies. Mountain Press
Publishing Company. Missoula, Montana.
HELIX En~l'llmnll------------------------------
Biological Technical Report for the Aura Circle Project I PLH-01/ September 15, 2016 23
HELIX Environmental Planning, Inc. (HELIX). 2016. Coastal California Gnatcatcher (Polioptila
californica califhrnica) Survey Report for the Aura Circle Project. April 20.
2007 Aura Circle Biological Technical Report. January 5.
Holland R.F. 1986. Preliminary Descriptions of the Terrestrial Natural Communities of
California. Nongame-Heritage Program, State of California, Department of Fish and
Game, Sacramento, 156 pp.
Oberbauer, T., Kelly, M., and Buegge, J. 2008. Vegetation Communities of San Diego County.
Based on "Preliminary Descriptions of the Terrestrial Natural Communities of
California," R.F. Holland, 1986. 73 pp.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 1997. Coastal California gnatcatcher (Polioptila
californica californica) Presence/ Absence Survey Guidelines.
HgJJ ______________ _
Biological Technical Report for the Aura Circle Project I PLH-01! September 15, 2016
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-Adoxaceae -Agavaceae
-Aizoaceae --Amaranthaceae --Anacardiaceae
►• --Apiaceae --Apocynaceae
Araceae -Araliaceae
Arecaceae
Asparagaceae
-Asphodelaceae
Asteraceae
Appendix A
PLANT SPECIES OBSERVED IN 2016
AURA CIRCLE PROJECT
SCIENTIFIC NAME
Sambucus nigra
Chlorogalum parviflorum
Yucca aloif<Jlia*
Aptenia cordifolia*
Carpobrotus edulis*
Mesembryanthemum nodiflorum*
Amaranthus a/bus*
Salsola tragus *
Malosma laurina
Rhus integrifolia
Schinus molle*
Schinus terebinthifolius*
Apiastrum angustifolium
Daucus pusi/lus
Foeniculum vulgare*
Nerium oleander*
Zantedeschia aethiopica*
Hedera sp. *
Syagrus romanzofjiana
Washingtonia robusta*
Agave attenuata*
Asparagus asparagoides*
Aloe maculata*
Artemisia californica
Baccharis pilularis
Centaurea melitensis*
Corethrogyne filaginifolia
C'ynara cardunculus*
Deinandrafi:isciculata
Dimorphotheca sp. *
Encelia californica
Glebionis coronaria*
Hazardia squarrosa
Hedypnois cretica*
Isocoma menziesii
Lactuca serriola*
Logfia gallica
A-I
COMMON NAME
black elderberry
smallflower soap plant
aloe yucca
dew plant
hottentot fig
slender leaved iceplant
white tumbleweed
Russian thistle
Laurel swnac
lemonade berry
Peruvian pepper tree
Brazilian pepper tree
wild celery
American wild carrot
fennel
oleander
Callalily
ivy
Queen palm
Mexican fan palm
lion's tail
African asparagus fern
aloe
California sagebrush
coyote brush
tocalote
common sandaster
artichoke thistle
fascicled tarplant
African daisy
California encelia
crown daisy
sav-.1ooth goldenbush
crete weed
Menzies' goldenbush
prickly lettuce
narrowleaf cottonrose
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Appendix A •
PLANT SPECIES OBSERVED IN 2016
AURA CIRCLE PROJECT
TAXON SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME
Asteraceae Pseudognaphalium sp. cudweed •
Senecio vulgaris* common groundsel
Sonchus sp. * sow thistle
Stephanomeria virgata rod wirelettuce •
Stylocline sp. neststraw •
Xanthium strumarium cocklebur •
Bignoniaceae Tecoma capensis* cape honeysuckle •
Boraginaceae Cryptantha sp. popcorn flower
Brassicaceae Brassica nigra* black mustard •
Raphanus sativus * wild radish
Cactaceae Cylindropuntia prol(fera coastal cholla • Opuntiaficus-indica* Indian-fig • Opuntia littoralis coastal prickly pear
Chenopodiaceae Chenopodium cal{/0rnicum California goosefoot
Chenopodium murale * nettle leaf goosefoot •
Cistaceae Cistus sp. * rockrose • Convolvulaceae Calystegia macrostegia Island morning glory
Convulvulus simulanst small flowered morning glory •
Crassulaceae Crassula connata pigmy weed •
Crassula ovata* jade plant •
Cucurbitaceae Marah macrocarpus wild cucumber
Euphorbiaceae Croton setigerus dove weed •
Euphorbia pep/us* petty spurge
Ricinus communh;* castor-bean
Fabaceae Acacia longifolia* golden wattle
Medicago polymorpha* bur clover
Melilotus indicus* annul yellow sweetclover •
Geraniaceae Erodium botrys* broad leaf filaree
Erodium cicutarium* red stemmed filaree • Iridaceae Si.\yrinchium bellum blue eyed grass
Lamiaceae Rosmarinus qfficinalis* • rosemary
Salvia mellifera black sage •
Stachys sp. hedge nettle
Lauraceae Per sea americana * avocado • Liliaceae Calochortus splendens splendid mariposa lily
Malvaceae Malva parv(f/.ora* cheeseweed mallow
Myrsinaceae Lysimachia arvensis* scarlet pimpernel •
A-2 •
Appendix A
PLANT SPECIES OBSERVED IN 2016 • AURA CIRCLE PROJECT
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• TAXON SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME
• Myrtaceae Callistemon cilrinus* crimson bottlebrush
-Eucalyptus sp. * eucalyptus
Nyctaginaceae Abronia sp. verbena
Mirabilis laevis desert wishbone bush
.. Onagraceae Epilobium canum California fushia
Oxalidaceae Oxalis pes-caprae* Bermuda buttercup
Phrymaceae Mimulus aurantiacus sticky monkeyflower • Pinaceae Pinus sp. * pme -Plantaginaceae Antirrhinum nuttallianum Nuttall's snapdragon
• Nuttallanthus texanus blue toadflax
• Plumbaginaceae Limonium californicum* California sealavender
Poaceae Arundo donax * giant reed • Avena sp. * oats
Brachypodium distachyon* purple falsebrome -Bro mus diandrus * ripgut grass
Bromus hordeaceus * soft chess -Bromus madritensis ssp. rubens* foxtail chess
Festuca myuros* rattail grass
Festuca perennis* Italian rye grasss
Hordeum sp. * barley
Melica imperfecta California melic
Pennisetum setaceum * fountain grass
Stipa lepida foothill needlegrass
Stipa pulchra purple needlegrass
Polygonaceae Eriogonumfllsciculatum California buckwheat
Rosaceae Heteromeles arhut(folia toyon -Rubiaceae Galium aparine common bedstraw -Scrophulariaceae Myoporum laetum * Ngaio tree
-Selaginellaceae Selaginella cinerascenst ashy spike moss
Solanaceae Nicotiana glauca* tree tobacco
► Solanum nigrum * black nightshade -Strelitziaceae Strelitzia nicolai* bird-of-paradise tree -Themidaceae Dichelostemma capitatum blue dicks
Tropaeolaceae Tropaeolum majus* nasturtium
Urticaceae Urtica urens* dwarf nettle ..
*Non-native species -tSensitive Species ·-
A-3
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TAXON
AppendixB
ANIMAL SPECIES OBSERVED OR DETECTED
AURA CIRCLE PROJECT
SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME
INVERTEBRATES
Order Family
Lepidoptera Nymphalidae
Pieridae
VERTEBRATES
Reptiles
Order Family
Squamata Phrynosomatidae
Birds
Order Family
Accipitriformes Accipitridae
Apodiformes Trochilidae
Columbiformes Columbidae
Cuculifonnes Cuculidae
F alconiformes Falconidae
Passeriformes Aegithalidae
Bombycillidae
Corvidae
l\Tymphalis anliopa
Vanessa cardui
Anthocharis sara sara
Pontia sisymbrii
Sceloporus occidentalis
Uta stansburiana
Accipiter cooperiit
Buteojamaicensis
Buteo lineatus
Calypte anna
Selmphorus sasint
Colurnba livia
Zenaida macroura
Geococcyx californianus
Falco .\parverius
Psaltriparus minimus
Bombycilla cedrorum
Aphelocoma cal{fornica
Corvus brachyrhynchos
8-1
mourning cloak
painted lady
Pacific Sara orangetip
spring white
western fence lizard
common side-blotched lizard
Cooper's Hawk
Red-tailed Hawk
Red-shouldered Hawk
Anna's Hummingbird
Allen's Hummingbird
Rock Pigeon
Mourning Dove
Greater Roadrunner
American Kestrel
Bushtit
Cedar Waxwing
Western Scrub-Jay
American Crow
AppendixB
ANIMAL SPECIES OBSERVED OR DETECTED
AURA CIRCLE PROJECT
TAXON SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME
Birds (cont.)
Order Family
Emberizidae Melospiza melodia Song Sparrow
Me/ozone crissalis California Towhee •
Pipilo maculatus Spotted Towhee
Passeriformes Emberizidae Zonotrichia leucophrys White-crowned Sparrow
Haemorhous mexicanus House Finch
Fringillidae Spinus psaltria Lesser Goldfinch
Mimidae Mimus poln~lottos Northern Mockingbird
Parulidae Oreothlypis celata Orange-crowned Warbler
Setophaga coronata Yellow-rumped Warbler
Sylviidae Polioptila cal{fornica Coastal California Gnatcatcher
californicat
T roglodytidae Thryomanes bewickii Bewick's Wren
Troglodytes aedon House Wren •
Tyrannidae Sayornis nigricans Black Phoebe
Sayornis saya Say's Phoebe
Tyrannus vociferans Cassia's Kingbird •
Picifonnes Picidae Picoides nuttallii Nuttall's Woodpecker
•
Mammals
Order Family •
Lagomorpha Leporidae Sylvilagus audubonii desert cottontail • Rodentia Sciuridae Spermophilus beecheyi California ground squirrel
tSensitive Species •
•
B-2
Appendix C
SPECIAL STATUS PLANT SPECIES WITH POTENTIAL TO OCCUR
AURA CffiCLE PROJECT
COMMONNAME SPECIES NAME STATUS HABIT, ECOLOGY AND POTENTIAL TO OCCUR LIFE IDSTORY
Ashy spike-moss Selaginella cinerascens --/--Occurs on flat mesas in coastal sage Present. Species found in
CRPR4.l scrub and chaparral. A good indicator disturbed Diegan coastal sage
of site degradation, as it rarely inhabits scrub within the northern
disturbed soils. oortion of the site.
Blochman's dudleya Dudleya blochmaniae ssp. --/--Occurs in coastaJ bluff and coastal sage Low. Suitable habitat occurs
blochmaniae CRPR 18.1 scrub, and grasslands. Found on rocky, on the site. Species would
MHCPNE often clay or serpentine soils. Range have been observed if
Carlsbad NE extends from central Californ ia counties present.
into northwestern Baia.
California adder's-tongue Ophioglossum lusitanicum --/--Occurs in chaparral, grasslands, and Low. Limited suitable
ssp. californicum CRPR4.2 vernal pools. Range extends from grassland habitat present on
northern California counties into the site.
northwestern Baja.
California adolphia Adolphia californica --/--Typically found on clay soils in dry Low. Suitable habitat occurs
CRPR2B.l canyons and washes in coastal sage on the site. Species would
scrub and chaparral. Occurs below have been observed if
1,000 feet in elevation in western San present.
Diego County and northwestern Baja.
Cliff spurge Euphorbia misera --/--Occurs on sea bluffs in maritime sage Low. Suitable habitat does
CRPR 2B.2 scrub from Corona Del Mar to Baja not occur on site.
MHCP/HMP California, Mexico.
Covered
Del Mar Mesa sand aster Corethrogyne filaginifolia --/--Coastal chaparral primarily in sandy Low. Species was not
var. linifolia CRPR IB.l openings between chamise is typical detected during the 2016 rare
MHCPNE m icrohabitat. plant surveys.
Carlsbad NE
C-1
Appendix C
SPECIAL STATUS PLANT SPECIES WITH POTENTIAL TO OCCUR
AURA CIRCLE PROJECT
COMMON NAME SPECIES NAME STATUS HABIT, ECOLOGY AND POTENTIAL TO OCCUR LIFE HISTORY
Orcutt brodiaea Brodiaea orcuttii --/--Small bulbiferous herb. Occurs only on Low. Vernal pool habitat
CRPR 18.1 clay soils in vernally moist does not occur on the site.
environments, usually near vernal pools
but occasionally near streams. Elevation
range 0-1 S00m.
Orcutt's spinetlower Chorizanthe orcuttiana FE/SE Occurs in closed cone coniferous forest, Moderate. Suitable habitat
CRPR IB.l maritime chaparral, and coastal scrub. occurs on the site. Species
MHCPNE Known from only three occurrences in would have been observed if
Carlsbad NE Encinitas and Point Loma. present.
Palmer's grapplinghook Hmpagonella palmeri --/--Occurs in chaparral, coastal sage scrub, Moderate. Suitable habitat
CRPR4.2 and grasslands on clay soils. Range occurs on the site. Species
includes southern California from Los would have been observed if
Angeles County southward, Arizona, present.
and northern Baja.
Robinson's pepper-grass Lepidium virginicum var. --/--This annual herb grows in openings in Moderate. Suitable habitat
robinsonii CRPR4.3 chaparral and sage scrub at the coastal occurs on the site. Species
and foothill elevations. Typically would have been observed if
observed in relatively dry, exposed present.
locales rather than beneath a shrub
canoov or along creeks.
San Diego ambrosia Ambrosia pumila FE/--Small rhizomatous herb. Occurs in Low. Soils and habitat on the
CRPR lB.l grasslands, valley bottoms and dry site are suitable; however,
MHCPNE drainages, also can occur on slopes, this species is very rare and
Carlsbad NE disturbed places, and in coastal sage known from fewer than 20
scrub or chaparral. May occur in vernal locations.
pools supported by sandy loam or clay
and at alkaline sites. Elevation range
200-600m. ft.
C-2
Appendix C
SPECIAL STATUS PLANT SPECIES WITH POTENTIAL TO OCCUR
AURA CIRCLE PROJECT
COMMONNAME SPECIES NAME STATUS HABIT, ECOLOGY AND POTENTIAL TO OCCUR LIFE IDSTORY
Small-flowered morning-Convolvulus simulans --!--Found in coastal clay areas in openings Present. Species in several
glory CRPR4.2 of chaparral, sage scrub, and grasslands locations in northern and
Scattered locations from the foothills to eastern portions of the site.
the coast in southern California and Approximately 3, I 05
Baja California, Mexico. individuals observed.
Sticky dudlyea Dudlyea viscida --/--Occurs in coastal sage scrub and Low. Suitable habitat on site
CRPR IB.2 chaparral of bluffs and rocky cliffs. is limited. Species would
Range includes southern Orange have been observed if
·county to central San Diego County. present.
Thread-leaved brodiaea Brodiaea Ji lifo/ia FT/SE Occurs in coastal sage scrub, Low. Suitable habitat on site
CRPR 18.1 cismontane woodlands, grasslands, and is limited. Would have been
MHCPNE vernal pools with clay soils. \ observed if present.
Carlsbad NE
Variegated dudleya Dudleya variegata --/--Small perennial herb. Occurs on clay Low. Suitable habitat occurs
CRPR IB.2 soils near vernal pools, and on on the site. Species would
MHCPNE metavolcanic rocky soils in open coastal have been observed if
sage scrub, chaparral, and grasslands. present.
Elevation range 0-1 000m.
C-4
Appendix D
SPECIAL STATUS ANIMAL SPECIES WITH POTENTIAL TO OCCUR
AURA CIRCLE PROJECT
COMMONNAME SPECIES NAME STATUS HABIT AT ASSOCIATIONS POTENTIAL TO OCCUR
Insects
Hennes copper Lycaena hermes FC/--Inhabits southern mixed chaparral and Low. Host plant was not
Carlsbad NE coastal sage scrub in more inland observed during surveys
areas with mature specimens of its conducted in 20 I 6.
larval host plant, spiny redberry
(Rhamnus crocea).
Quino checkerspot Euphydryas edi1ha FE/--Primary larval host plants in San Low. Larval host plants were
butterfly quino Diego are dwarf plantain (Plantago not observed on site. Not
erecta) at lower elevations, woolly expected to occur on site and
plantain (P. patagonica) and white is outside the required survey
snapdragon (Antirrhinum area.
coulterianum) at higher elevations.
Owl's clover (Castilleja exserta) is
considered a secondary host plant if
primary host plants have senesced.
Potential habitat includes vegetation
communities with areas of low-
growing and sparse vegetation. These
habitats include open stands of sage
scrub and chaparral, adjacent open
meadows, old foot trails and dirt
roads.
D-1
Appendix D
SPECIAL STATUS ANIMAL SPECIES WITH POTENTIAL TO OCCUR
AURA CIRCLE PROJECT
COMMON NAME SPECIES NAME STATUS HABITAT ASSOCIATIONS POTENTIAL TO OCCUR
Reptiles and Amphibians
Coast patch-nosed snake Salvadora hexalepis --/SSC Primarily found in chaparral but also Moderate. Suitable coastal
virgultea inhabits coastal sage scrub and areas sage scrub habitat occurs on
of grassland mixed with scrub. the site.
Orange-throated whiptail A~pidoscelis --/SSC Occurs in coastal scrub, chaparral, Moderate. Suitable coastal
hyperythra MHCP/HMP and valley and foothill hardwood sage scrub habitat occurs on
[ Cnemidophorus Covered habitats. Prefers washes and sandy the site. Favored food
hyperythrus] areas with patches of brush and rocks. (termites [Reticu/itermes sp.])
Perennial plants required to support not observed but likely
its primary prey termites. present.
Red diamond rattlesnake Crota/us ruber --/SSC Found in chaparral, coastal sage Moderate. Suitable habitat
scrub, along creek banks, particularly occurs on-site but no rock
among rock outcrops or piles of outcrops were observed
debris with a supply of burrowing during surveys.
rodents for prey.
San Diego horned lizard Phrynosoma --/SSC Occurs in coastal sage scrub and Moderate. Suitable coastal
coronatum blainvillei chaparral in arid and semiarid cl imate sage scrub habitat occurs on
conditions. the site. Favored food source
(harvester ants
[Pogonomyrmex sp.]) not
observed but may be present
nearbv.
D-2
AppendixD
SPECIAL STATUS ANIMAL SPECIES WITH POTENTIAL TO OCCUR
AURA CIRCLE PROJECT
COMMONNAME SPECIES NAME STATUS HABIT AT ASSOCIATIONS POTENTIAL TO OCCUR
Birds
California homed lark Eremophila alpestris --/WL Observed year-round scattered Low. Limited grasslands
actia throughout San Diego County observed on the site. Species
Occurs in coastal strand, arid may forage on the site.
grasslands, and sandy desert floors
Coastal cactus Campylorhynchus --/SSC Observed in coastal lowlands of San Low. Limited stands of
wren brunneicapillus MHCPNE Diego County within cactus d1ickets. cactus occur on the site.
couesi Species would have been
detected if present.
Coastal California Polioptila californica FT/SSC Found in coastal sage scrub below Present. Two pairs of
gnatcatcher californica MHCP/HMP 2,500 ft in southern California. Low, gnatcatchers were detected on
Covered coastal sage scrub in arid washes, on the site during surveys
mesas and slopes. Not all areas conducted in 2016.
classified as coastal sage scrub are
occupied.
Cooper's hawk Accipiter cooperi --/WL (Nesting) Open, uninterrupted, or Moderate. Suitable nesting
MHCP/HMP marginal woodland. Nest sites mainly habitat does not occur o n the
Covered found in riparian growths of site. Species has potential to
deciduous trees, live oaks. forage within the project site.
Northern harrier Circus cyaneus --/SSC (Nesting) Coastal salt and freshwater Low. Suitable nesting habitat
marsh. Nests and forages in does not occur on the site.
grasslands, from salt grass in desert Species may use the site to
sink to mountain cienagas. Nests on forage if found nearby.
ground in shrubby vegetation, usually
at marsh edge; nest built of a large
mound of sticks in wet areas.
Southern California Aimophila ruficeps --/WL Found in coastal sage scrub and Low. Suitable habitat occurs
Rufous-crowned sparrow canescens HMP Covered sparse mixed chaparral. on the site. Species would
have been observed if
present.
D-3
AppendixD
SPECIAL STATUS ANIMAL SPECIES WITH POTENTIAL TO OCCUR
AURA CIRCLE PROJECT
COMMONNAME SPECIES NAME STATUS HABITAT ASSOCIATIONS POTENTIAL TO OCCUR
Birds <cont.)
Swainson's hawk Buteo swainsoni --/ST (Nesting) Open grassland. Breeds in Low. Limited grassland
grasslands with scattered trees, habitat occurs on the site.
juniper-sage flats, riparian areas, This species is not likely to
savannahs, and agricultural or ranch nest, but has potential to
prope1ties. Requires adjacent suitable forage during migration.
foraging areas such as grasslands, or
alfalfa or grain fields supporting
rodent populations.
White-faced ibis Plegadis chihi --/WL (Nesting colony) Nests in freshwater None. Su itable habitat does
HMPCovered marshes and forages in shallow not occur on the site.
waters and wet, grassv habitats.
White-tailed kite Elanus leucurus --/Fully Protected Nesting typically occurs in riparian or Low. Suitable nesting habitat
oak woodlands adjacent to grasslands does not occur on the site.
where small mammals are hunted.
Breeds in the Pacific U.S. Winters to
South America as far south as Chile.
Mammals
California mastiff bat Eumops perotis --/SSC Permanent resident in southern Moderate. May use site for
californicus California where chaparral and where foraging, but roosting sites
coast live oaks are found. Also occurs likely elsewhere.
in arid, rocky areas, cliffs, and
canyons.
Northwestern San Diego Chaetodipus Jal/ax --/SSC Prefers open, sandy land with weeds. Moderate. Limited suitable
oocket mouse fa/lax habitat oresent on the site.
San Diego black-tailed Lepus californicus --/SSC Occurs primarily in open habitats Low. Suitable habitat is small
jackrabbit bennettii MHCP Covered including coastal sage scrub, and sized and surrounded by
chaparral, grasslands, croplands, and residential development.
open, disturbed areas if there is at Species would have been
least some shrub cover oresent. observed if oresent.
D-4
THJS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
D-6
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AppendixE
EXPLANATION OF STATUS CODES FOR PLANT AND ANIMAL SPECIES
FEDERAL, STATE, AND LOCAL CODES
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS)
Federally listed endangered
Federally listed threatened
Federal candidate species
FE
FT
FC
BCC Birds of Conservation Concern (discussed in more detail, below)
California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW)
SE
SR
ST
SSC
WL
State listed endangered
State listed rare
State listed threatened
State species of special concern
Watch List
Fully Protected Fully Protected species refer to all vertebrate and invertebrate taxa of concern
to the Natural Diversity Data Base regardless of legal or protection status.
These species may not be taken or possessed without a pennit from the Fish
and Game Commission and/or CDFW.
OTHER CODES AND ABBREVIATIONS
USFWS Birds of Conservation Concern (BCC)
This report from 2002 aims to identify accurately the migratory and non-migratory bird species
(beyond those already designated as federally threatened or endangered) that represent USFWS'
highest conservation priorities and draw attention to species in need of conservation action.
USFWS 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.
MHCP/HMP Covered Species
Species listed as MHCP/HMP covered species indicate that these species would receive formal
protection and take authorization upon approval of the MHCP/HMP under the state and federal
endangered species acts.
Narrow Endemic
Narrow Endemic is a sensitivity rating given by the MHCP/HMP to indicate "those species
considered so restricted in distribution and abundance that substantial loss of their populations or
habitat might jeopardize the species' continued existence or recovery."
E-1
Appendix E (cont.)
EXPLANATION OF STATUS CODES FOR PLANT AND ANIMAL SPECIES
Ranks
California Native Plant Society (CNPS) Rare Plant Ranks
Threat Ranks
IA Plants Presumed Extirpated in
California and Either Rare or Extinct
Elsewhere
1 B Plants Rare, Threatened, or
Endangered in California and
Elsewhere
2A Plants Presumed Extirpated in
California, But Common Elsewhere
2B Plants Rare, Threatened, or
Endangered in California, But More
Common Elsewhere
3 Plants About Which More
Information is Needed
4 Plants of Limited Distribution
0.1 Seriously threatened in California ( over
80 percent of occurrences threatened / high
degree and immediacy of threat)
0.2 Moderately threatened in California (20 to
80 percent occurrences threatened I
moderate degree and immediacy of threat)
0.3 Not very threatened in California (less than
20 percent of occurrences threatened I low
degree and immediacy of threat or no
current threats known)
A "CA Endemic" entry corresponds to those tax.a
that only occur in California.
All List IA (presumed extinct in California) and
some List 3 (need more infonnation; a review list)
plants lacking threat information receive no
extension. Tbreat 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.
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HELIX Environmental Planning, Inc.
7578 El Cajori Boulevard
Suite 200
La Mesa, CA 91942
619.462.1515 te1
619.462.0552 fax
www.helixepi.com
April 20, 2016
Ms. Stacey Love
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
HELIX
Environmental Planning
PLH-01
-2177 Salk Ave., Suite 250
Carlsbad, CA 92008
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Subject: 2016 Coastal California Gnatcatcher (Polioptila calffornica califOrnica) Survey Report
for the Aura Circle Project
Dear Ms. Love:
This letter presents the results ofa U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) protocol
presence/absence survey of the federally listed as threatened coastal California gnatcatcher
(Polioptila californica californica; CAGN) conducted by HELIX Environmental Planning, Inc.
(HELIX) for the Aura Circle Project (project). This report describes the methods used to
perform the survey and the results. It is being submitted to the USFWS as a condition of
HELIX's Threatened and Endangered Species Permit TE778195-12.
PROJECT LOCATION
The 15.03-acre project site is located south of Tamarack Avenue and west of El Camino Real
within the City of Carlsbad (City), San Diego County, California (Figure 1). The project site is
further located within the Augua Hedionda land grant of the U.S. Geological Survey 7 .5-minute
San Luis Rey quadrangle map (Figure 2). The property lies between residential communities
along Kelly Drive to the east and Avila Avenue to the west and is within the City's Habitat
Management Program. An aerial photograph of the site is provided as Figure 3.
METHODS
The survey consisted of three visits that were performed by HELIX biologist Erica Harris
(TE778195-l 2) in accordance with the current (1997) USFWS protocol. The surveys were
conducted on foot with the aid of binoculars, and the route was arranged to ensure complete
survey coverage of all potential gnatcatcher habitat (6.05 acres ofDiegan coastal sage scrub
Letter to Ms. Stacey Love
April 20, 2016
Page 2 of6
[including disturbed]) on site. Taped gnatcatcher vocalizations were played periodically in an
attempt to illicit a response from gnatcatchers. Weather conditions, time of day, and season were
appropriate for the detection of gnatcatchers (Table 1 ).
Table I
GNA TCATCHER SURVEY INFORMATION
Approx.
Site Sunrey Start/ Acres Start/Stop Biologist(s) Stop Sunreyed/ Visit Date ' Times Acres per Weather Conditions
Hour
I 2/19/16 Erica Harris 0830/ 6.05 ac/ 72°F, wind, 0-1 mph, 0% cloud cover
1030 3.3 ac/hr 73°F, wind, 2-5 moh, 73% cloud cover
2 2/26/16 Erica Harris 0845/ 6.05 ac/ 61 °F, wind, 0-1 mph, 0% cloud cover
Ben Rosenbaum* 1150 2.0 ac/hr 73°F, wind, 2-6 mnh, IO¾ cloud cover
Erica Harris 0900/ 6.05 ac/ 66°F, wind, 1-3 mph, 5% cloud cover 3 3/10/16 Ben Rosenbaum*
Katie Bellon* 1120 2.4 ac/hr 67°F, wind, 2-5 mph, 40% cloud cover
*Supervised individual
The surveys were conducted by walking along the edges of, as well as within, suitable CAGN
habitat. The survey route was arranged to ensure complete survey coverage of all habitat with
potential for occupancy by CAGN. All surveys were conducted with binoculars to aid in bird
detection. Recorded CAGN vocalizations were played sparingly and only if other means of
detection had failed. If a gnatcatcher was detected before playing recorded vocalizations, the
recordings were not played. Once CAGNs were initially detected in an area, use of playback
was discontinued. The approximate survey route followed is depicted on Figure 4.
VEGETATION COMMUNITIES/LAND USE TYPES
A total of six vegetation communities/land use types have been identified within the property:
Diegan coastal sage scrub (including disturbed), native grassland, non-native grassland,
non-native vegetation, disturbed habitat, and developed land (Figure 4). The vegetation
community considered suitable CAGN habitat (Diegan coastal sage scrub) is described first
below.
Diegan Coastal Sage Scrub (including disturbed)
Coastal sage scrub is one of the two major shrub types that occur in southern California,
occupying xeric sites characterized by shallow soils (the other is chaparral). Four distinct coastal
sage scrub geographical associations (northern, central, Venturan, and Diegan) are recognized
along the California coast. Diegan coastal sage scrub may be dominated by a variety of species
depending upon soil type, slope, and aspect. Typical species foW1d within Diegan coastal sage
scrub include California sagebrush (Artemisia californica), California buckwheat (Eriogonum
HELIX
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Letter to Ms. Stacey Love
April 20, 2016
Page 3 of6
fasciculatum ssp.fasciculatum), laurel sumac (Malosma laurina}, and black sage (Salvia
mellifera). Disturbed Diegan coastal sage scrub contains many of the same shrub species as
undisturbed Diegan coastal sage scrub but is sparser and has a higher proportion of non-native
annual species.
A total of 6.05 acres of Diegan coastal sage scrub (including disturbed) occurs within the project
site. Dominant species include California sagebrush, California sunflower (Encelia cal{fornica),
and coast cholla (Cylindropuntia prol!fera).
Native Grassland
Native grassland is a community dominated by perennial bunchgrasses such as purple needle
grass (Stipa pulchra) with annual and perennial forbs such as common golden stars (Bloomeria
crocea ssp. crocea) and California blue-eyed grass (Si:-.yrinchium bellum). Native grasslands
generally occur on fine-textured soils that 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. Native grasslands occur throughout California as small isolated
islands.
A total of 0.05 acre of native grassland occurs within the project site. The dominant species
observed include purple needle grass.
Non-native Grassland
Non-native grassland typically supports a sparse to dense cover of annual grasses often
associated with numerous species of showy-flowered native annual forbs. This association
occurs on gradual slopes with deep, fine-textured, usually clay soils. Most of the annual,
introduced species that make up 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 grasslands are common throughout San Diego County.
Typical species observed in this habitat on site include ripgut grass (Bromus diandrus), soft chess
(Bromus hordaceus), and barley (Hordeum murinum).
A total of 0.02 acre of non-native grassland occurs within the project site. Dominant species
include wild oat (Avena spp.).
Non-native Vegetation
Non-native vegetation is a category describing stands of naturalized trees or shrubs, many of
which are also used in ornamental landscaping. On site, this habitat consists of small stands of
Peruvian pepper tree (Schinus molle) and golden wattle (Acacia sp.), as well as carpets of
hottentot fig (Carpobrotus edulis) and slenderleaficeplant (Mesembryanthemum nodiflorum).
HELIX
Enllrroomefllll/ f'ta,m•fl!I
Letter to Ms. Stacey Love
April 20, 2016
Disturbed Habitat
Page4of6
Disturbed habitat includes land that has little or no habitat value because it has been cleared of
vegetation for agricultural purposes or contains heavily compacted soils following disturbance
such as grading. Disturbed habitat on site includes heavily disturbed soils dominated by annual
non-native vegetation such as filaree (Erodium spp.), wild-oat, castor bean (Ricinus communis),
and mustard (Brassica sp.).
Developed
Developed land is where permanent structures and/or pavement have been placed, which
prevents the growth of vegetation, or where landscaping is clearly tended and maintained.
Developed portions of the site consist of a concrete pad and landscaping located along the
western and northern boundaries adjacent to existing residential development.
RESULTS
Two CAGN pairs were observed in separate locations during the protocol survey effort, though
not all individuals or pairs were detected during each of the three surveys (Figure 4). A detailed
description of CAGN observations and locations is included below.
A CAGN pair was observed foraging within the southern portion of the site during the first and
third survey. The pair was detected along the southern slope approximately 440 feet north of the
project boundary. A single male CAGN was detected within this same area during the second
survey and is presumed to be the male associated with the pair observed in the same area.
A second CAGN pair was detected in the northern portion of the site during the second and third
survey approximately 400 feet north of the southern pair. The pair was observed carrying nesting
material and constructing a nest during both the second and third survey. However, the pair
abandoned the first nest site and was observed constructing a new nest approximately 80 feet
north of the old nest site during the third survey. The nest was located in a California sunflower
shrub approximately 2 feet high above the ground. Both individuals were observed carrying
nesting material and depositing the material at the nest site. Both individuals made multiple visits
to the nest and were observed constructing and fanning the nest.
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April 20, 2016
REFERENCES
Page 6 of6
Holland, R.F. 1986. Preliminary Descriptions of the Terrestrial Natural Communities of
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California. State of California, The Resources Agency, 156 pp. •
Oberbauer, Thomas. 2008. Terrestrial Vegetation Communities in San Diego County Based on
Holland's Descriptions. Revised from 1996 and 2005. July. •
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. I 997. Coastal California Gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica
californica) Presence/ Absence Survey Protocol. Spp.
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