HomeMy WebLinkAboutGPA 05-06; AURA CIRCLE; FINAL DIEGAN COASTAL SAGE SCRUB RESTORATION PLAN 2008; 2006-10-06Section Title
RECEIVED
OCT O 9 2008
Aura Circle CITY OF CARLSBAD
Final Diegan Coastal Sage Scrub Restoration Plan PLANNING DEPT
TABLE OF CONTENTS
I. PURPOSE AND GOALS OF THE RESTORATION PLAN ....................................... 1
II. PROJECT SUMMARY ................................................................................................ 1
A. Location .................................................................................................................. 1
B. Existing Conditions ................................................................................................. I
III. PROJECT IMPACTS AND MITIGATION ................................................................. 1
IV. RESTORATION DESIGN CONCEPT ........................................................................ 2
V. PROJECT RESPONSIBILITY ...................................................................................... 2
A. Project Proponent ................................................................................................... 2
B. Restoration Specialist .............................................................................................. 2
C. Contractor .............................................................................................................. 3
VJ. RESTORATION SITE SUITABILITY ANALYSIS ...................................................... 3
VII. RESTORATION IMPLEMENTATION ....................................................................... 3
A. Flagging and Fencing ............................................................................................. 3
B. Site Preparation ...................................................................................................... 3
C. Installation ............................................................................................................. 4
D. Irrigarion ................................................................................................................ 6
E. Construction Limitations ........................................................................................ 6
F. Schedule ................................................................................................................. 6
VIII. PROJECT MAINTENANCE ....................................................................................... 7
A. General Maintenance .............................................................................................. 7
B. Staging Area ........................................................................................................... 8
C. Irrigation ................................................................................................................ 8
D. Weed Control ......................................................................................................... 8
E. Plant Replacement .................................................................................................. 8
F. Pruning .................................................................................................................. 8
G. Trash Removal ........................................................................................................ 8
H. Pest Control ........................................................................................................... 8
I. Fertilization ............................................................................................................ 9
TABLE OF CONTENTS (cont.)
Section Title
IX. PROJECT MONITORJNG ......................................................................................... 9
A. Installation Monitoring .......................................................................................... 9
B. Maintenance Monitoring ....................................................................................... 9
C. Annual Monitoring ................................................................................................. 9
1. Monitoring ..................................................................................................... 10
2. Photo DocUillentarion ..................................................................................... 10
3. Reporrs ........................................................................................................... 10
X. SUCCESS CRJTERJA ................................................................................................. 10
A. 120-day Establishment Period ............................................................................. 10
B. Vegetation Criteria for Restoration Areas ............................................................. 11
1. Species Richness ............................................................................................. 11
2. Vegetative Cover ........................................................................................... 11
3. Natural Recruitment ...................................................................................... 11
C. Completion of Mitigarion ..................................................................................... 11
1. Notification of Completion ............................................................................. 11
2. Agency Confirmation ...................................................................................... 12
D. Contingency Measures .......................................................................................... 12
1. Initiating Procedures ...................................................................................... 12
2. Alternative Locations foe Contingency Mitigation ........................................... 12
XI. REFERENCES ............................................................................................................ 13
LIST OF FIGURES
Follows
Number Tide r-
1 Regional Location Map ................................................................................................ 2
2 Project Location Map .................................................................................................... 2
3 Vegetation and Sensitive Resources/Impacts .................................................................. 2
4 Proposed Diegan Coastal Sage Scrub Creation ............................................................... 2
Number
1
2
3
4
5
LIST OF TABLES
Diegan Coastal Sage Scrub Container Plant Palette ...................................................... 4
Diegan Coastal Sage Scrub Seed Mix ............................................................................. 4
Diegan Coastal Sage Scrub/Low-fuel Planting Area Seed Mix ........................................ 5
Diegan Coastal Sage Scrub/Low-fuel Planting Area Container Plant Palette .................. )
Maintenance Monitoring Schedule ................................................................................ 7
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I. PURPOSE AND GOALS OF THE RESTORATION PLAN
This report presents a conceptual restoration plan for Diegan coastal sage scrub impacts associated
with the proposed Aura Circle project. The mitigation requirements in this report are based on the
City of Carlsbad (City) Resolution No. 6285 certifying Mitigated Negative Declaration (MND; State
Clearinghouse 2007011061) for this project and additional resource agency requirements for
unforeseen additional impacts, as discussed below.
This restoration plan proposes to create 5.57 acres of Diegan coastal sage scrub, which would occur
entirely on site. It is expected that implementation of this restoration plan will be the creation of
Diegan coastal sage scrub equal or superior in function and value to the current habitat.
II. PROJECT SUMMARY
A. LOCATION
The site is located south of Tamarack Avenue and west of El Camino Real in Carlsbad, San Diego
County, California (Figures 1 and 2). The property lies between residential communities along Kelly
Drive to the east and Avila Avenue to the west and includes a Proposed Hardline Conservation Area
(Figure 3) within Local Facilities Management Zone (LFMZ) 1. It also falls within the Coastal Zone
and within the City's Habitat Management Plan (HMP) for Natural Communities (City 2004).
The proposed development is a nine-unit single-family residential area with requisite access and
infrastructure.
B. EXISTING CONDITIONS
The site consists of two small ridgelines with gently sloping hillsides, surrounded by patches of
predominantly disturbed areas. Vegetation present includes Diegan coastal sage scrub, native
grassland, non-native grassland, and disturbed habitat. Surrounding the parcel are densely clustered
residential areas with no open space contiguous to any boundary line. Elevation ranges from
approximately 38 feet to 239 feet above mean sea level (amsl). The soil type on site consists primarily
of Las Flores Loamy Fine Sand (15 to 30 percent slopes; Bowman 1973).
III. PROJECT IMPACTS AND MITIGATION
Impacts to 1.84 acres of Diegan coastal sage scrub shall be mitigated at a minimum 2: 1 ratio for a
rotal requirement of 3.84 acres. On-site preservation is not eligible for mitigation credit, given that
the project site is located within the coastal zone, thus mitigation shall be accomplished through
on-site creation of5.57 acres ofDiegan coastal sage scrub (Figure 4) resulting in a 3:1 mitigation ratio
where disturbed habitat occurs.
HELIX
Final Diegan Coastal Sage Sm,b Restoration Plan fr,r A,,ra Cirde I MSK-02 I Octobtr 6, 2008
IV. RESTORATION DESIGN CONCEPT
The proposed restoration areas are intended to emulate Diegan coastal sage scrub habitat conditions.
The seed and plant palette for the creation areas would include a hydroseed mix and container stock
(shrub species). A restoration specialist will be present during plant installation and would make the
final determination regarding plant placement.
Temporary irrigation will be used during the first three years following installation to facilitate
survival of the created Diegan coastal sage scrub. Hydroseeding will include annual and perennial
species. Fast-growing annual species that germinate quickly would provide initial cover and protect
freshly graded soils from erosion. During the course of plant succession, it is anticipated chat
perennial species would ulcimarely predominate the area.
V. PROJECT RESPONSIBILITY
A. PROJECT PROPONENT
The project proponent is responsible for financing the installation and 5-year maintenance and
monitoring of this Diegan coastal sage scrub restoration plan. The project applicant's contact
information is detailed below.
Mr. Joe Gallagher
Carlsbad Greens, LLC
P.O. Box 300489
Escondido, CA 92030
Phone: (760) 749-6060
B. RESTORATION SPECIALIST
Overall supervision of the installation, maintenance, and monitoring of this restoration project will be
the responsibility of the restoration specialist. This person will oversee rhe efforts of the landscape
conrractor(s) for the life of the project. This person has the authority to substitute plant material and
change the restoration plan as conditions of the site dictate, as long as the appropriate agencies (e.g.,
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service [USFWS], California Department of Fish and Grune [CDFG]), and
City) are notified. Specific tasks of the restoration specialist include educating all participants about
mitigation goals and requirements and directly overseeing planting, seeding, weeding, and
maintenance. The restoration specialist will ensure that the contractor does not inadvertently impact
sensitive habitat areas not contemplated in this plan. When necessary, the restoration specialist will
provide the project applicant and contractor with a written monitoring memo, including a list of items
in need of attention. The habitat restoration specialist would notify the contractor and responsible
party if any requested remediation is not addressed. The restoration specialist also will prepare and
submit annual reports as well as a final report to the project applicant, USFWS, CDFG, and City.
The restoration specialist must be a qualified biologist (typical qualifications require a bachelor's
degree in biology and at least 2 years of restoration experience).
HELIX
Final Diegan Coastal Sage &rub Restora1ion P/.,,n fur A"ra Cirr:it I MSK--02 / Oaober-6. 2008 2
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C. CONTRACTOR
The installation and maintenance contractor(s) will have upland restoration experience and be under
direction of the restoration specialist. Installation will include site preparation, irrigation installation,
seeding, planting, and weed removal. Maintenance following installation completion will occur for a
5-year period. The initial three months of the maintenance period is also an establishment period. At
least 1 month prior to the end of this establishment period, the contractor will be responsible for
replacing any dead or terminally diseased plants. Plant replacement will be under direction of the
restoration specialist. Different contractors may be used for the installation and maintenance phases of
the restoration job, and the applicant may change contractors at its discretion. The contractor(s) will
service the entire restoration area as required, and will meet the restoration specialist at the site when
requested and perform all checklist items within 30 days as directed by the applicant. The maintenance
contractor will be educated as to the maintenance of native plant habitat and the difference between
native plants and weeds. Maintenance would include but not be limited to weed control, trash removal,
watering, fence repair, dead plant replacement, and re-seeding. All activities conducted would be
seasonally appropriate and approved by the restoration specialist. The landscape and maintenance
contractor(s) will work closely with the restoration specialist to ensure the installation and maintenance
of native plant habitat and to determine differentiation between native plants and weeds.
VI. RESTORATION SITE SUITABILITY ANALYSIS
The areas selected for restoration are all outside the limits of brush management. Thus, habitat
restoration is anticipated to be successful because appropriate upland conditions and similar habitat
currently occur within or adjacent to the proposed restoration areas. The Diegan coastal sage scrub
restoration areas would provide wildlife habitat.
VII. RESTORATION IMPLEMENTATION
A. FLAGGING AND FENCING
To minimize temporary effects to native habitats adjacent to the restoration areas on site, flagging
and/or temporary fencing will be installed around the restoration areas prior to site preparation and
installation. In addition, temporary silt fencing will be installed along rhe downhill edge of the areas
to be restored. The restoration specialist will be present at the restoration areas to direct installation
activities. Permanent signage (placed every 200 feet) identifying habitat sensitivity as well as
restricted activities will be erected along the boundary between the development and preserved open
space areas as part of the Aura Circle HMP (HELIX 2008).
B. SITE PREPARATION
The restoration specialist will mark all areas to be prepared and/or avoided with stakes, flags, and/or
gypswn. An on-site meeting will be held with the landscape contractor and the restoration specialist to
identify sensitive areas and devise a strategy for avoidance prior to initiation of restoration activities. One
(1) specific staging area will be established in the proposed development area adjacent to the restoration
sires. All vehicles and construction equipment will be restricted to the staging area when not required for
restoration activities. A small piece of equipment such as a bobcat will be used to prepare the site. Existing
native vegetation within the Preserve would be avoided during implementation of restoration activities.·
HELIX
Final Diegan COaital Sag, Send, Restoration Plan for Aura Circle I MSK-02 / October 6, 2008 3
All upland habitat restoration areas will be prepared for planting by decompacting the top soil in a
way that mimics natural upland habitat top soil to the maximum extent practicable while maintaining
slope stability. Topsoil and plant material salvaged from the upland habitat areas co be impacted by
the propose project will be transplanted to, and/or used as a seed/cutting source for the upland habitat
restoration areas to the maximum extent practicable.
C. INSTALLATION
Native seed and nursery-grown container plants propagated from on-site or nearby sources will be used
in the restoration areas, as shown in Tables 1 and 2. The source and proof of local nativeness of aJI plant
material and seed shall be provided to the USFWS, CDFG, and Gty. Use of all seed and container
stock must be inspected and approved by the restoration specialist prior to installation. Seeding will
include annual and perennial species. Fast-growing annual species that are quick co germinate would
provide initial cover and protect freshly graded soils from erosion. During the course of plant succession,
it is anticipated that native perennial species will ultimately predominate the restoration areas. All
planting shall be installed in a way that mimics natural plant distribution, and not in rows.
Table 1
DIEGAN COASTAL SAGE SCRUB CONTAINER PLANT PALETTE
Scientific Name Common Name Grouping Spacing Number Total* Size (ft) Per Acre
ArtemiJia californica California sagebrush 5-10 5 100 500
Encelia californica California encelia 3-5 5 75 375
Eriorronum fasciculatum California buckwheat 5-10 5 100 500
HeteromeleJ arbutitolia rovon 3-5 5 50 250
Obuntia littoraliJ oricklv near cactus 3 4 20 100
Rhus inter:rrifolia lemonadeber,...,, 3 7 15 75
Salvia /1.niana white sage 5-10 5 50 250
Salvia mellifera black sa12:e 5-10 5 50 250
TOTAL 460 2,300
*Based on 5 acres
Table 2
DIEGAN COASTAL SAGE SCRUB SEED MIX
Scientific Name Common Name Minimum Percent Lbs/ Total Lbs* Purirv/Germination Acre
ArtemiJia californica California sa12:ebrush 15/50 3 15
BacchariJ PilulariJ covote brush 2/40 5 25
Encelia caft ornzca California encelia 40/60 4 20
Eriovonum asciculatum California buckwheat 10/65 5 25
Hemizonia a.rciculata fascicled tarolant 20/80 3 15
lsocoma menzieJii 1socoma 40/30 7 35
Mimu!UJ aurantiacus bush monkev flower 2/60 5 25
Namlla lebitia foothill needlel!:rass 90/60 4 20
Salvia a11iana white sage 70/30 5 25
Salvia melli era black sage 70/50 4 20
TOTAL 45 225
*Based on 5 acres
HELIX
Final Dieg4n CMStal Sage Scrnb Rntoration Plan for Aur4 Circk I MSK-02 I October 6, 2008 4
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A 30-foot wide special planting zone consisting of low density/low fuel plant species (Tables 3 and 4)
will be installed along the northern property line. The purpose of this 30-foot wide special planting
zone is to reduce the risk of fire spreading to the adjacent, off-site structures down-slope co the north.
Table 3
DIEGAN COASTAL SAGE SCRUB/LOW-FUEL PLANTING AREA SEED MIX
Scientific Name Common Name Minimum Percent Lbs/ Total
Purity/Germination Acre Lbs*
CY".1htantha muricata popcorn flower 15/50 1 1
Deinandra fasciculata fascicled tarnlant 20/80 2 1
Dichelostemma capitatum blue dicks 90/80 2 1
Distichlis s/Jicata saltgrass 80/80 3 2
EriotJh'vllum confertivlorum .!!olden varrow 30/70 2 1
Eschscholzia ca!tfornica California ponnv 98/80 2 1
Lasthenia 2/ahrata goldfields 90/85 2 1
LutJinus bicolor luoine 98/85 1 1
Melica imper(ecta coast range melic 80/60 2 1
Muhlenberf!ia micros"/Jerma littleseed muhlv 80/60 1 1
Nassella pulchra nurole needle-grass 90/80 5 3
Solanum xantii purple nightshade 90/30 1 1
S,vsirinchium bellum blue-eved grass 95/75 1 1
Yucca whihhfei Our Lord's candle 1 1
TOTAL 26 17
*Based on 0.5 7 acre
Table 4
DIEGAN COASTAL SAGE SCRUB/LOW-FUEL PLANTING AREA
CONTAINER PLANT PALETTE
Scientific Name Common Name Grouping Spacing Number Total* Size (ft) Per Acre
Heteromeles arbutifolia tovon 3-5 10 25 14
Malosma laurina laurel sumac 3-5 10 25 14
Opuntia littoralis nricklv near cactus 5 7 35 20
Rhus znte~rifolia lemonadebern, 3-5 12 25 14
Yucca whihh/ei Our Lord's candle 5 7 35 20
TOTAL 145 82
*Based on 0.57 acre
Planting of container stock would occur in restoration areas according co the landscape plan. Container
stock would be installed in holes that are at least 1.5 times larger than the container. Holes would be dug
with mechanical augers where possible and by hand elsewhere. All container stock would be 1 gallon.
HELIX
Final Diegar1 Coa,tal Sage Scntb RmiiratiM Plar1 for Aura Circk I MSK-02 I Oaober 6, 2008 5
Seeding will be conducted either by hand (through a hand-powered whirling seed dispenser) or as the
first step in a two-step hydroseed/mulch application process. Hand-seeding is rhe preferred method
whenever practical. Whichever seeding merhod is employed, seed must be applied prior to the
application of any erosion control materials (fiber mulch, blankets, etc.). Hydroseeding/mulching may
be conducted only if it can be accomplished without affecting any extant native or restored vegetation,
as determined by the restoration specialist. No other soil preparation or seed scarification/inoculation
will be required, and no amendments or additives will be used.
D. IRRIGATION
Irrigation is planned for the restoration areas. Water will be applied infrequently and only as needed
to prevent plant and seedling mortality. The irrigation schedule will attempt to develop deep root
growth with evenly spaced, infrequent, deep applications of water. To obtain deep penetration of
water, the irrigation system may be activated several times in one 24-hour period. Irrigation will be
minimized to the extent possible following natural rainfall events.
Once plant material is established and does not require supplemental irrigation, the above-ground
portions of the system will be removed. The restoration specialist will determine how and when the
removal will occur.
The goal is to obtain germination and growth with the least amount of irrigation. Frequent irrigation
encourages weed invasion and leaches nutrients from the soil. Native plantings that are infrequently
irrigated may grow slower initially but will ultimately develop into better habitat. As a result,
irrigation will be used for the first three years (or less) of the monitoring period. During the final two
years, monitoring would determine the success of the project without irrigation.
E. CONSTRUCTION LIMITATIONS
Site preparation would be limited outside the breeding season of avian species (February 1 to
August 31) that could potentially occupy habitat within or adjacent to the restoration areas. Should
construction of the restoration areas extend into the avian breeding season, a qualified biologist shall
survey suitable habitat for nesting birds within 500 feet of any construction activity and take
appropriate measures as necessary to avoid or mitigate effects on nesting birds.
F. SCHEDULE
Implementation of this restoration plan is expected to begin as soon as sire conditions are appropriate and
after all applicable approvals have been secured.. Currently, the anticipated start dare is spring 2009. Initial
activities would include flagging of all restoration areas, site preparation, and installation of the protective
construction fencing. Installation of irrigation and plant material would begin when site preparation is
complete. The entire restoration is anticipated to be complete within 4 weeks of starting. Monitoring of the
restoration effort would begin with installation and continue for 5 years following completion of installation.
Annual te{X>rts would be prepared and distributed to the USFWS, CDFG, and Gty.
Ir should be noted that any temporal loss of upland habitat caused by delays in creation/restoration
shall be mitigated through upland habitat preservarion/creation/resroration at a 0.5:1 ratio for every
6 months of delay (i.e., 1:1 for 12 months delay, 1.5:1 for 18 months delay, etc.). In che event that
rhe project applicant is wholly or partly prevented from performing obligations under the final plans
(causing temporal losses due to delays) because of unforeseeable circumstances or causes beyond the
reasonable control, and without ti}e fault or negligence of the project applicant, the project applicant
shall be excused by such unforeseeable cause(s).
HELIX
Final Diegan Comtal Sage Scrub Re_rtr,ration Plan for Aura Cirde I MSK-02 / O.tober 6, 2008 6
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VIII. PROJECT MAINTENANCE
A 5-year maintenance program is proposed to ensure the successful establishment and persistence of
the Diegan coastal sage scrub habitat. The restoration specialist would direct maintenance activities.
Impacts to sensitive species are nor anticipated to be an issue once the site is graded, installation has
occurred, and the 5-year maintenance program is initiated. Nonetheless, the restoration specialist
would be responsible for ensuring that no activities (such as pruning mature vegetation) occur during
the avian breeding season that could affect nesting activities.
Maintenance requirements described below would be met initially for the 120-day establishment period
(the first 4 months of Year 1) and for the remaining 4 years and 8 months following installation. The
restoration specialist would inspect the site at the end of the 120-day establishment period to ensure that
weeds are under control and initial plantings are successful before signing off. If necessary, the
installation contractor would correct any problems identified by the restoration specialist.
A. GENERAL MAJNTENANCE
Damage to restoration areas that occurs as a result of unusual weather, vandalism, or other events outside
maintenance personnel and restoration specialist control would be repaired under direction of the restoration
specialist. The contractor would repair any damage caused by contractor's inadequate maintenance as
determined by the restoration specialist. It is the contractor's responsibility to keep all restoration areas free
of debris and monitor plant material condition and health, weeding, and erosion control.
These maintenance guidelines are specifically tailored for native plant establishment. Maintenance
personnel would be fully informed of the habitat restoration program so that they understand the
restoration goals and maintenance requirements. A professional with experience and knowledge in
native habitat restoration maintenance would supervise all maintenance activities.
The maintenance contractor would service the restoration areas according to the schedule in Table 5.
Service will include but is not limited to weed control, dead plant replacement, and reseeding. The
contractor will meet the restoration specialist at the restoration areas when requested and would
perform all checklist items within 30 days as directed.
Table 5
MAJNTENANCE MONITORING SCHEDULE
PHASE i SCHEDULE
Installation : Dailv
Post Installation
Yearl* Monthlv
Year 2
Februa-· to T ul" Monthl"
Au0 ust to lanuarv Twice: Seotember and December
Years 3 through 5 Quarterly: March, June,
Seritember, and December
*Year 1 includes the 120-day establishment period
HELIX
Fmal Diegan Co,mal Sage S.ndi Rertr,ration Plan for Aura Cirde I MSK-02 l Odober 6, 2008 7
B. STAGING AREA
After site preparation and installation of irrigation systems, only construction equipment necessary to
accomplish plant installation will be allowed in the creation/resroration areas. Workers' vehicles would be
parked outside the restoration areas, and all equipment will be removed from the site as soon as their task
is completed. No vehicular fluids will be added or changed within the restoration areas.
C. IRRIGATION
The contractor will be responsible for repairing damage to the irrigation system within the restoration
areas within two working days of such damage.
D. WEED CONTROL
All weeds will be removed from the restoration areas to prevent competition with the newly
establishing native species. As weeds become evident, they should be removed by hand or controlled
with the proper herbicides. The restoration specialist will oversee weed control performed by the
maintenance contractor. Maintenance personnel will be able to distinguish weed species from
desirable native vegetation. A cut and spray routine is the suggested method of removal. All non-
native plane material must be removed from the restoration areas and disposed of legally
(i.e., transported to a licensed landfill).
E. PLANT REPLACEMENT
Plants will be replaced at the direction of the restoration specialist. The contractor will be responsible
for replacing any dead or terminally diseased plants at least 1 month prior to the end of the initial
establishment period. Thereafter, plant replacement by the maintenance contractor will be completed
within 30 days of written direction by the restoration specialist.
F. PRUNING
No post-installation pruning is necessary unless otherwise directed by the restoration specialist.
G. TRASH REMOVAL
Planted areas will be kept free of trash and debris and would be checked according to the maintenance
schedule (Table 5) by maintenance personnel.
H. PEST CONTROL
Insects, vertebrate pests, and diseases will be monitored. A high threshold of talerance will
be permitted before control measures are considered. Only a licensed pest control adviser, as
required by law, will make specific recommendations. All applicable federal and state laws and
regulations would be closely followed. The restoration specialist will be consulted on any pest
control matters.
HELIX
Final Diegan Coastal Sage Scrub Remm.rion Plan for Aura Cirde I MSK-02 I Cktober 6, 2008 8
I. FERTILIZATION
Fertilizer will not be applied except in extraordinary circumstances and only at the written direction of
the restoration specialist.
IX. PROJECT MONITORING
A. INSTALLATION MONITORING
The restoration specialist will monitor habitat restoration installation acnvmes, including site
preparation and installation of irrigation, plant, and seed material within the Diegan coastal sage scrub
restoration areas. Installation monitoring would include attendance at 1 pre-construction meeting
and daily site monitoring during the installation period. Specifically, the restoration specialist would:
• Ensure that installation personnel understand the project requirements and limitations;
• Ensure char site preparation is appropriate to support the target habitat type;
• Ensure the itrigacion system is installed correctly;
• Inspect plant and seed material prior to installation;
• Monitor the manner in which the plant and seed material is installed; and
• Prepare a letter for submittal ro rhe appropriate regulatory agencies stating that the installation is
complete and the 5-year maintenance and monitoring period has begun.
B. MAINTENANCE MONITORING
Following installation, the restoration specialist will monitor maintenance activities conducted by rhe
maintenance crews during the 5-year maintenance and monitoring period (Table 5). The initial
120-day establishment period will occur within the first 4 months of the 5-year period. Monitoring
visits would be conducted monthly during Year 1. In Year 2, visits will be conducted monthly from
February through July and twice during the remainder of the year (September and December).
Quarterly visits (March, June, September, and December) will be conducted during
Years 3 through 5. Monitoring memos noting any issues with plant establishment, sediment control,
etc. will be provided as necessary ro the installation/maintenance contractor(s). The contractor will
correct problems identified by the restoration specialist. During each visit, the restoration specialist
will inspect the restoration areas to ensure that the restoration effort is progressing as planned and to
identify any problems that may affect the effort. Monitoring memos regarding plant establishment,
irrigation, sediment control, etc. will be provided following each inspection to the contractor, who will
be responsible for any necessary remedial measures.
C. ANNUAL MONITORING
In addition to maintenance monitoring visits, the restoration specialist will conduct annual monitoring
visits during the 5-year monitoring period. The annual visits will be conducted in June each year to
coincide with the peak of the growing season for upland vegetation. The exact timing of the visits will
depend on site and weather conditions each year.
HELIX
Final Diegan Coastal Sage Scrub Rmaration Plan Jar Aura Cm:Ie I MSK-02 I Oct(l/;er 6, 2008 9
During Years 1 and 2, annual monitoring will consist of qualitative (visual) documentation. During
Years 3 through 5, annual monitoring will consist of quantitative moniroring (transects), which
includes point intercept line transect sampling merhods described in the California Native Plant
Society's Field Sampling Prorocol (Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995). Using this method, a point is
projected into the vegetation at SO-centimeter (cm) intervals along each transect, and each species
intercepted by the point is recorded. At each sample location along each transect, each species should
be recorded and vegetation should be categorized into herb (less than 60 cm in height), shrub (60 cm
to 200 cm) and tree (greater than 200 cm) tiers. Species diversity and native and non-native percent
cover (as well as herb, shrub, and rree categories) will be calculated from rhese data.
1. Monitoring
During Years 1 and 2, the restoration specialist would qualitatively assess general characteristics of
cover, size of planted shrubs, and general wildlife use of the restated areas. Native vegetative cover,
non-native species cover, species richness, and native plant recruitment will be estimated visually in
rhe restoration areas. During Years 3 through 5, monitoring will use standard techniques and be
based on transect/quadrant sampling (Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995).
2. Photo Documentation
In addition to qualitative and quantitative monitoring, several permanent phoro documentation
stations will be established. Photos will be taken as part of all 5 annual monitoring events and will be
included in the annual reports.
3. Reports
Reports will be prepared annually and submitted to the USFWS, CDFG, and City no later than
December 1 during the 5-year monitoring period. These reports will be based on qualitative and/or
quantitative data as appropriate and will focus on possible adjustments (if any) needed to ensure
ultimate project success. For Years 3 through 5, the annual reports will include results of transect
monitoring data to determine success as compared to set criteria from the restoration effort. Each
report will evaluate the success of the restoration effort to date, along with recommendations for
future work that may be deemed necessary.
X. SUCCESS CRITERIA
The following sections provide standards to determine successful completion of this restoration plan.
Attainment of these standards indicates the restoration areas are progressing roward habitat function
and value specified by this plan. These success criteria apply to Years 3 through 5 of the monitoring
period. Methods to be used for measuring these success criteria are described in the following section.
A. 120-DAY ESTABLISHMENT PERIOD
Success at the end of the 120-day establishment period will be met if there is 100 percent container
stock survivorship. The restoration specialist shall count the container stock and compare the number of
plants to the construction documents. It is recommended that the initial planting contain between
HELIX
Final Diegan Coastal Sage Sr:rub Re.itiil'"ation Plan for A11ra Circle I MSK-02 I October 6, 2008 10
10 to 15 percent more container stock than specified in the plan in order to ensure success. Container
stock shall be in the ground for at least 30 days prior ro the end of the establishment period. The site
must be relatively weed-free and evidence of successful seed germination of hydroseed material must be
visible.
B. VEGETATION CRITERIA FOR RESTORATION AREAS
1. Species Richness
Species richness is the number of native species present in a given area. During annual monitoring,
species richness within the restoration areas would be determined by visual assessment in Years 1 and
2 and by visual assessment and transect data in Years 3, 4, and 5. No specific richness criteria are
established for Years 1 or 2; however, all dead plants will be replaced unless the function of the dead
plants has been replaced by natural recruitment. During Years 1 through 5, container stock survival
will be 80 percent of initial plantings. Species richness should be similar to that within the adjacent
existing undisturbed Diegan coastal sage scrub areas.
2. Vegetative Cover
In addition to species richness, native and non-native (weed) plant species cover will be used to
determine project success. Annual performance goals have been set to track the progress of the
mitigation effort. For Years 3, 4, and 5, absolute cover should be between 40 and 65 percent,
respectively, as well as evidence of natural recruitment of multiple species. If the annual goals for total
cover are not being met, additional measures (e.g., reseeding, planting, weeding, etc.) will be taken as
necessary to ensure final success.
Control of weed species categorized as High or Moderate in the California Invasive Plant Council
(Cal-IPC) 2006 Invasive Plant Inventory will be conducted such that at the end of the 5-year
monitoring period, the relative cover of such weed species is 0 and relative cover of all other weed
species does not exceed 10 percent.
3. Natural Recruitment
Natural recruitment is the successful, natural reproduction and/or establishment of plants in a given
area. During quantitative moniroring, species richness will be determined through the use of belt
transects. The annual success criterion for species richness area is 80 percent of the number of species
planted and seeded. Remedial measures (i.e., seeding and/or container stock installation) will be
implemented as needed to ensure the successful introduction and recruitment of many different species
within the restoration areas and to ensure eventual achievement of the long-term goals.
C. COMPLETION OF MITIGATION
1. Notification of Completion
The project proponent shall notify the USFWS, CDFG, and City of mitigation effort completion
through submittal of the 5-year monitoring report.
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Fin..i Diegan Coastal Sage Sm1b Reitl)rafirm Plan far Aura Circle I MSK-02 i Omber 6, 2008 II
2. Agency Confirmation
After receipt of the final monitoring report, the USFWS, CDFG, and City may inspect the mitigation
site to determine the success of the restoration effort. After evaluating the final report, the City, in
consultation with the USFWS and CDFG shall determine if the restoration effort is acceptable.
If rhe habitat restoration meets the success standards identified in this plan at the end of the 5-year
monitoring period, the restoration will be considered a success; if not, the maintenance and
monitoring program will be extended 1 year at a time until the standards are met. Specific remedial
measures (approved by the USFWS, CDFG, and City) will be used during any extension. Monitoring
extensions will only be applicable to areas that fail to meet final success criteria.
This process will continue until all Year 5 standards are met or until the USFWS, CDFG, and City
determine that other mitigation measures are appropriate. Should the restoration effort meet all goals
prior to the end of the 5-year monitoring period, the USFWS, CDFG, and City may at their discretion
terminate the monitoring effort. Alternatively, a subsequent agreement may be negotiated with the
USFWS, CDFG, and City. Only areas that fail to meet the success standards will be subject to any
subsequent agreement.
D. CONTINGENCY MEASURES
1. Initiating Procedures
Upon receipt of any of the annual monitoring reports, if the USFWS and/or CDFG determine that the
restoration effort is not on course to meet the project's final success criteria, the project proponent,
landscape contractor, and City shall be notified in writing by the restoration specialist that the
mitigation effort is in need of remedial measures. The project proponent shall then have 30 days to
respond, challenge, or confirm the, determination that remedial work must be done. Potential
remediation measures include such items as extending the monitoring period, planting more container
stock and/or seed, and/or planting additional areas.
2. Alternative Locations for Contingency Mitigation
Sufficient contingency restoration areas are not present within the project site. If success criteria are
not being met within the on-site restoration areas, the USFWS, CDFG, and City will work toward an
alternative, mutually acceptable solution.
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Final Diegan Cwmal Sage Scrub Reit01'ation Plan /01' Aura Cink I MSK-02 I Oaober 6, 2008 12
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XI. REFERENCES
Bowman, R 1973. Soil Survey of the San Diego Area. USDA in cooperation with the USDI, UC
Agricultural Experiment Station, Bureau of Indian Affairs, Department of the Navy, and the
U.S. Marine Corps.
City of Carlsbad (City). 2004. Habitat Management Plan for Natural Communities in the City of
Carlsbad. November.
HELIX Environmental Planning, Inc. (HELIX). 2008. Preserve Management Plan for Aura Circle.
October 6.
Sawyer, J.O. and T. Keeler-Wolf. 1995. A Manual of California Vegetation. California Native Plant
Society. 472 pp.
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Final Diegan Coastal Sage Scrub Re.lUJration Plan /<w AuM Cirrle I MSK-02 I October 6, 2008 13