HomeMy WebLinkAboutCT 97-13; CARLSBAD OAKS NORTH; EXISTING BIOLOGICAL CONDITIONS; 2001-12-01•
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Merkel & Associates, Inc. # 97-104-06 December I, 2000
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SUMMARY ..................................................................... 1
INTRODUCTION ...........................................•.................... 2
LOCATION ..................................................................... 2
ME1HODS .................... ; ................................................ 2
BOTANICAL INVESTIGATIONS ................................................. 5
ZOOLOGICAL INVESTIGATIONS .................................... ,. , .......... 6
California Gnatcatcher Surveys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Least Bell's Vireo Surveys ............................................ 6
WETLAND DELINEATION AND JURISDICTIONAL WATERWAY DETERMINATION ........... 6
Wetland Vegetation ....................... : .......................... 7
Wetland Hydrology ................................................... 7
Wetland Soils ....................................................... 7
Jurisdiction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers .................................... 8
California Department of Fish and Game ........................... 8
SCIENTIFICNOMENCLATURE .................................................. 9
GENERAL PHYSIOGRAPHY ...................................................... 9
BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES ....................................................... 9
VEGETATION .............................................................. 9
Coastal Sage Scrub . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Coyote Brush Scrub ................................................. 12
Southern maritime chaparral/Nuttall' s scrub oak phase . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Southern Mixed Chaparral . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
California Sage -Chaparral Scrub ...................................... 13
Valley Needlegrass Grassland (Native Grassland) .......................... 13
Non-native Grassland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Southern Cottonwood-Willow Riparian Forest ............................ 14
Southern Willow Scrub . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Mule Fat Scrub . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Southern Coast Live Oak Riparian Forest ................................ 14
Coast Live Oak Woodland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 5
Cismontane Alkaline Marsh . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Coastal and Valley Freshwater Marsh ................................... 15
Freshwater Seep . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Emergent Wetland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Disturbed Wetland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Open Water (Pond) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Ornamental/Revegetated Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Exotic Vegetation ..................... _ .............................. 16
Agricultural Field . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Disturbed Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
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Urban/Developed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 •
FLORA .................................................................. 17
WETLAND RESOURCES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Southern Cottonwood-Willow Riparian Forest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Southern Willow Scrub . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Mule Fat Scrub ..................................................... 19
Cismontane Alkali Marsh ............................................. 20
Coastal and Valley Freshwater Marsh ................................... 20
Freshwater Seep .................................................... 20
Emergent Wetland .................................................. 20
Disturbed Wetland ....................................... , . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Non-wetland Waters of the U.S ............................... : ......... 20
Wetlands Functions and Values . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
WILDLIFE RESOURCES ...................................................... 22
Butterflies ......................................................... 22
Fish ......................... -..................................... 22
Amphibians ........................................................ 22
Reptiles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Birds ................................................. , ............ 23
Mammals ......................................................... 24
Wildlife Movement Corridors .......................................... 24
SENSITIVE SPECIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Sensitive Plant Species Identified On-Site ................................ 25
Sensitive Plant Species Potentially Occurring On-Site ...................... 32 •
Sensitive Wildlife Species Identified On-Site ............................. 32
Sensitive Wildlife Species Potentially Occurring On-Site .................... 39
REFERENCES ................................................................. 59
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LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1. Project Vicinity Map ...................................................... 3
Figure 2. Vegetation and Sensitive Species Map ....................................... 10
Figure 3. Wetlands and Non-wetland Waters of the U.S .................................. 18
Figure 4. Carlsbad HMP -Illustrating Resource Areas and Linkages ....................... 26
LIST OF TABLES
Table 1. Survey Dates, Times, Conditions, Tasks, and Staff ................... , . : .......... 4
Table 2. Summary of Vegetation Communities ........................................ 11
Table 3. Summary of Wetlands and Jurisdictional Non-wetland Waters of the U.S ............. 19
LIST OF APPENDICES
Appendix 1. Floral Checklist of Species Observed
Appendix 2. Fauna! Checklist of Species Observed or Detected
Appendix 3. Plant and Animal Sensitivity Guidelines
Appendix 4. Wetland Data Forms
Appendix 5. Wetland Photograph Points
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Merkel & Associates, Inc. # 97-104-06 December 1, 2000
EXISTING BIOLOGICAL CONDITIONS FOR THE
PROPOSED FARADAY ROAD EXTENSION,
SOUTH AGUA HEDIONDA SEWER INTERCEPTOR,
AND CARLSBAD OAKS NORTH BUSINESS PARK PROJECT,
CARLSBAD, CALIFORNIA
SUMMARY
Biological surveys were performed to determine the vegetation communities, flora, fau~a, and sensitive
species occurring within a study area encompassing the Faraday Avenue roadway extension, the South
Agua Hedionda Trunk Sewer, and the Carlsbad Oaks North Business Park-property. The purpose of the
surveys was to document vegetation communities and sensitive biological resources which could be
impacted by future development within the study area. The current survey work was evaluated in
conjunction with past biological investigations of the properties.
The study area encompasses approximately 650 acres located east of El Camino Real and north of
Palomar Airport Road, south of the Los Monos preserve, and west of the City of Vista. The study area
consists of mostly mild slopes supporting sage scrub or chaparral vegetation, and drainages supporting
mature canopies dominated by Coast Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia), Western Sycamore (Platanus
racemosa), and several species of willow (Salix spp.). Sensitive plants identified on-site include an
abundance ofNuttall's Scrub Oak (Quercus dumosa) and California Adolphia (Adolphia californica),
moderate numbers of Summer-Holly (Comarostaphylis diversifolia) and Southwestern Spiny Rush
(Juncus acutus), and five small patches of the federally threatened San Diego Thorn-mint
(Acanthomintha ilicifolia). A previous investigation identified numerous federally endangered Del Mar
Manzanita (Arctostaphylos glandulosa ssp. crassifolia) on the west side of the study area. However, the
current survey work determined these plants to be the similar but non-sensitive Eastwood Manzanita
(Arctostaphylos glandulosa ssp. zacaensis).
Sensitive animal species present include four territories of the federally threatened Coastal California
Gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica californica). Other sensitive wildlife species commonly found in
the on-site sage scrub and/or chaparral habitats were the San Diego Horned Lizard (Phrynosoma
coronatum blainvillii), Orangethroat Whiptail (Cnemidophorus hyperythrus), and Southern California
Rufous-crowned Sparrow (Aimophila ruficeps canescens). Highly noteworthy is the presence of a
breeding pair of Northern Harriers (Circus cyaneus), which fledged two young on the site this past
spring. The White-tailed Kite (Elanus leucurus) and Red-shouldered Hawk (Buteo lineatus) were
confirmed nesting on-site, and the Cooper's Hawk (Accipiter cooperii) is expected to nest on-site based
upon repeated observations of individuals in highly suitable habitat.
The Burrowing Owl (Athene cunicularia) was reported on-site in the mid-l 980s; however, there are no
recent records or sign of its presence. Also, the Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos) was reported on-site
in the mid-l 980s, but no recent sightings have been made, and based on the large distance to the nearest
known nesting locality and the intervening urbanization, the site is not expected to be a significant use
area for Golden Eagles .
The study area occupies the southern half of Core #5 of the City of Carlsbad's Habitat Management Plan
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(HMP). It connects via an extended, generally narrow and circuitous linkage (Link D) to Core #6. Core
#5 also connects to Core #3 through Link C. Important with respect to the HMP is that regional wildlife •
corridors are identified passing through the property. These include the main riparian corridor of Agua
Hedionda Creek (northwest/north-central part of study area) and the un-named drainage passing from
east to west in the south-central part of the study area. This latter corridor is particularly important as
it connects to Link D (through the Carlsbad Raceway property), which provides the more eastern of only
two linkages connecting the northern and southern sections of the Carlsbad HMP.
This report does not evaluate potential biological impacts, nor does it provide recommendations to
reduce or mitigate such impacts.
INTRODUCTION
Biological surveys of the proposed Faraday A venue extension and the Agua Hedionda Truck Sewer
extension, as well as the Carlsbad Oaks North Business Park project site, were performed at the request
of Kimley-Horn and Associates for the City of Carlsbad. The purpose of the investigations was to
summarize the vegetation communities present on-site and to identify endangered, threatened, or
otherwise sensitive plant and animal species occurring within the identified study area. This information
is intended to guide an assessment of expected biological impacts associated with implementation of the
component projects.
LOCATION
The study area is located in unsectioned lands of Township 11 South, Range 4 West of the San
Bernardino Base & Meridian, USGS 7.5' San Luis Rey Quadrangle (Figure 1). The project site lies in •
the City of Carlsbad in northwestern San Diego County. Access to the southwest corner of the study
area is via an unnamed dirt road adjacent to El Camino Real, which crosses all the way to the eastern
border of the study area. Alternatively, the eastern portions of the site are accessible from the
termination of Faraday Avenue, at the western limit of the City of Vista. The northwestern portion of
the study area is accessed from Sunny Creek Road, which also exits off of El Camino Real.
METHODS
Biological and wetlands investigations were conducted according to the times and conditions listed in
Table 1. The present study benefits significantly from a number other efforts performed on various
portions of the current study area. Previous biological work has been performed for the Carlsbad Oaks
North Business Park site (Dudek 1997, Recon 1984), the Faraday Avenue extension (Dudek 1999a), and
for a segment of the sewer extension (Dudek 1999b ).
An area encompassing much of the more southerly portions of the study area was surveyed by Merkel
& Associates in 1997 (M&A 1997). Also, the western portion of the study area was investigated by KEA
Environmental for its suitability as a County of San Diego mitigation site (KEA 1998). Where biological
information required updating, or where there is a difference of professional opinion as to the
categorization of a particular vegetation assemblage, these changes have been made and discussion is
provided in the Vegetation section of this report.
A list of all vascular plant species identified on-site is provided in Appendix 1. Appendix 2 lists all
vertebrate and butterfly species detected in the study area. Sensitive plant and animal species known
or with potential for on-site occurrence are reviewed within this report; Appendix 3 provides a summary •
of sensitivity guidelines and definitions for these sensitive species.
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Merkel & Associates, Inc. # 97-104-06 December 1, 2000
TABLE 1. SURVEY DATES, TIMES, CONDITIONS, TASKS, AND STAFF
DATE TIME CONDITIONS TASKS STAFF • 5/10/00 1130-1430 Mostly sunny; 70-72°F; wind negligible General Reconnaissance ATG
KLP
5/11/00 0820-1035 Morning clouds clearing to 20% clouds by Least Bell's Vireo ATG
0930, then back to 80% clouds by 1030; 66-DAM
70°F; wind 0-3 mph
5/23/00 0730-1100 Morning mist/overcast clearing by 0900; 61 °F; Least Bell's Vireo ATG
wind 0-3 mph DAM , KLP
6/2/00 0700-1100 Overcast; 66°F; wind negligible Least Bell's Vireo ATG
6/14/00 0800-1200 Overcast; 67°F; wind 0-1 (Beaufort) California Gnatcatcher ATG
MAB
6/15/00 0830-1200 Sunny; 68-74°F; wind 0-5 mph Least Bell's Vireo KLI
California Gnatcatcher DAM
6/21/00 0700-1030 Overcast; 66°F; wind 0-1 (Beaufort) Least Bell's Vireo ATG
KLP
6/22/00 0745-1200 Overcast; 65-67°F; wind 0-1 (Beaufort) California Gnatcatcher ATG
BAK
6/29/00 0730-1130 Morning overcast until ap. 0830; 60-73°F; California Gnatcatcher ATG
wind 0-5 mph GLR • KLP
7/3/00 0730-1100 Overcast; 67°F; wind 0-1 (Beaufort) Least Bell's Vireo ATG
SRR
7/700 1030-1430 Sunny; 73-75°F; wind negligible Wetland Delineation KLI
KLP
7/12/00 0800-1200 Morning overcast until ap. 0900; 66°F; wind California Gnatcatcher ATG
0-1 (Beaufort) SRR
7/17/00 0605-0900 Morning overcast until ap. 0745; 58-74°F; Burrowing Owl ATG
wind negligible NIU
DAM
7/20/00 0830-1500 Morning partly cloudy until ap. l000; 72-Wetland Delineation KLI
85°F; wind 0-3 mph NIU
VAL
7/25/00 0900-1500 Overcast; 60°F Vegetation Mapping CHR
KLP
7/28/00 • 0735-1100 Overcast; 66-70°F; wind 3 (Beaufort) Least Bell's Vireo ATG
DAM
7/31/00 0730-1045 Morning overcast until ap. 1000; 63-72°F; California Gnatcatcher ATG
' wind 3-5 (Beaufort) Least Bell's Vireo DAM
General Biology KLI •
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8/2/00 0930-1430 Sunny, 80+°F; wind negligible
8/3/00 0915-1415 Sunny, 85°F; wind 2-5 mph
8/4/00 0900-1430 Sunny; 80°F; wind negligible
8/7/00 0900-1600 Sunny; 80+°F; wind negligible
8/10/00 0700-0830 Sunny, 80+°F; wind negligible
8/17/00 0930-1430 Mostly sunny
8/23/00 0900-1500 Mostly sunny
8/30/00 1000-1630 Overcast with short periods of rain; 65-70°F;
wind 0-3 mph
10/9/00 1000-1600 Partly cloudy; 65-78°F; wind negligible
10/11/00 1100-1600 Scattered clouds and intermittent light rain;
64°F; wind 3-10 mph
ATG =
MAB=
SRR =
VAL=
Antonette T. Gutierrez
Melissa A. Booker
Steve R. Rink
DAM
BAK
= David A. Mayer
= B.G. Adam Koltz
KLI = Kyle L. Ince
Vanessa A. Lee TA W = Tracy A. Wurth
BOTANICAL INVESTIGATIONS
December 1, 2000
General Biology DAM
General Biology CHR
Wetland Delineation DAM
NKJ
VAL
Wetland Delineation NKJ
VAL
General Biology DAM
General Biology DAM
·'
General Biology DAM
General Biology DAM
Wetland Delineation DAM
General Biology KLI
NKJ
General Biology CHR
Botany NKJ
TAW
Botany CHR
KLP
GLR
NKJ
Karina L. Perovich
= GeoffL. Rogers
Navroop K. Jassal
Vegetation communities and sensitive resources were plotted on 1" = 200' topographic base maps and
digitized into an AutoCAD format by Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc. Previous vegetation mapping
performed by Dudek and Associates was used as a baseline for the work. All plant communities, soil
types, and slope exposures were surveyed on-foot. Plant identifications were either resolved in the field
or later determined through verification of voucher specimens. Vegetation communities were generally
delineated according to Holland (1986) as modified by Oberbauer (1993).
Delineation of some on-site vegetation communities was particularly difficult due to the co-existence
of key indicator species. For example, the sensitive Nuttall's Scrub Oak (Quercus dumosa) is an
important indicator species for Southern Maritime Chaparral, while the similar Interior Scrub Oak
(Quercus berberidifolia) is characteristic of Southern Mixed Chaparral. Often these plants were found
in close association; more confusing is that many individual plants showed hybrid traits for both species.
Where Nuttall's Scrub Oak provided the clear majority of the shrub cover, the habitat was delineated
as Southern maritime chaparral/Nuttall's scrub oak phase, a sensitive vegetation type.
Delineation between sage scrub and chaparral vegetation was also difficult in some areas due to the
dominance of species which readily occur in either of these two plant communities, such as Black Sage
(Salvia mellifera) and Toyon (Heteromeles arbutifolia). The presence and predominance ofChamise,
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Merkel & Associates, Inc.# 97-104-06 December I, 2000
Mission Manzanita (Xylococcus bicolor), Interior Scrub Oak, Nuttall's Scrub Oak, or Ramona
Ceanothus (Ceanothus tomentosus) were used to distinguish chaparral (i.e., Southern Mixed Chaparral) •
areas from sage scrub (Coastal Sage Scrub). Primary Coastal Sage Scrub indicators were California
Sagebrush (Artemisia californica), Flat-top Buckwheat (Eriogonum fasciculatum), and White Sage
(Salvia apiana). Secondary indicators used to define sage scrub vegetation included California Adolphia
(Adolphia californica). In a very few areas there was a mix of indicator species for both sage scrub and
chaparral. These areas were delineated as Coastal Sage/Chaparral Scrub to indicate the ecotone
condition. Substantial areas formerly mapped as chaparral in prior studies are now clearly dominated
by sage scrub components, though occasional Chamise or Mission Manzanita occur as isolated elements.
Such areas are mapped as Coastal Sage Scrub as they clearly retain a greater than 90% sage scrub cover.
ZOOLOGICAL INVESTIGATIONS
Presence of wildlife species was determined primarily t_hrough direct observation (aided by binoculars).
Identification of songs, call notes or alarm calls, as well as observation of indirect sign (burrows, tracks,
scat, etc.) were used to confirm the presence of various wildlife species. Appendix 2 provides a list of
the wildlife species identified on-site.
Focused investigations were performed according to U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) protocols
for two federally listed species, the Coastal California Gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica californica)
and the Least Bell's Vireo (Vireo bellii pusillus). In addition, during the surveys for the Least Bell's
Vireo, special attention was paid to the potential presence of the Southwestern Willow Flycatcher
(Empidonax traillii extimus), and taped recordings were played to elicit response from any potentially
occurring Willow Flycatchers.
California Gnatcatcher Surveys
Three or more visits were performed in areas under time and weather conditions suitable for gnatcatcher
activity. Taped recordings of the gnatcatcher's distinctive vocalization were played approximately every
200 feet of survey distance in suitable habitat. Up to several minutes were allowed for a response,
especially from advantageous viewpoints.
Least Bell's Vireo Surveys
The 2000 surveys performed by Merkel & Associates were targeted to determine the presence of highly
sensitive species, specifically the Least Bell's Vireo and the Southwestern Willow Flycatcher. Surveys
for these two species generally followed current protocol of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS
1999a and Sogge et al 1997, respectively), except that tape recordings of the Willow Flycatcher were
played by authorized personnel on most visits in an effort to maximize potential detection of this species.
Although these species were the focus, all vertebrate species observed were recorded.
WETLAND DELINEATION AND JURISDICTIONAL WATERWAY DETERMINATION
M&A biologists Kyle L Ince, Vanessa A. Lee, and Navroop K. Jassal, and Kimley Horn & Associates'
biologist Karina Perovich, conducted wetland delineation work in July and August of 2000.
Delineations of the site were performed using the routine on-site determination methods noted in the
1987 Army Corps of Engineers' (ACOE) Wetland Delineation Manual (ACOE 1987). In addition, the
delineation effort was expanded to identify Non-wetland Waters of the United States under federal
jurisdiction and streambeds under the jurisdiction of the California Department of Fish and Game
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(CDFG). Wetlands and jurisdictional waterways were plotted on a l" = 200' topographic map of the
project site as well as a l" = 400' aerial photograph of the project site. Stream bed widths were noted
on the map to provide true jurisdictional dimensions. Evidence supportingjurisdictional determinations
was recorded on wetland field data forms and depicted in photographs of the project site (Appendix 4
and 5, respectively).
The following text describes the three parameters used to determine the presence/absence of wetlands
and non-wetland water streambeds occurring on the project site. Additional information on the overall
delineation process and regulatory jurisdictions may be found in the federal delineation manual (ACOE
1987), state and federal .enacting legislation, or through guidance provided by judicial interpretation,
solicitors' opinions, and regulatory guidance issued to ACOE offices and CDFG field staff.
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Wetland Vegetation
Vegetation communities which met the criteria of wetland-associated vegetation were dominated by a
preponderance of species classified as obligate wetland plants (OBL), facultative wetland plants
(FACW), or facultative plants (FAC) based on the National List of Plant Species that Occur in
Wetlands (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1988). Areas indicated as Non-wetland Waters of the U.S.
typically lacked vegetation or were dominated by upland species, but exhibited wetland hydrologic
characteristics.
Wetland Hydrology
Hydrologic wetland indicators included both surficial and sub-surficial characte!istics. Most of the flow
information consisted of drainage patterns. Additional flow evidence included soil saturation or
inundation, oxidized root channels, drift lines, and sediment deposits. Furthermore, hydrologic
indicators were used to define Non-wetland Waters of the U.S.
Wetland Soils
To confirm the presence of hydric soils, soil test pits were excavated using a shovel. Soils taken from
depths ranging from 12 to 16 inches were examined for physical and chemical evidence of hydric
conditions. However, due to the abundance of cobble in the soils at this particular site, soil test pits were
often limited to much shallower depths. Excavated soils were evaluated using the chroma index from
the Munsell Soil Color Charts (Munsell Color 1974), but soil color was not used as the only indicator
in the study area's mineral sandy soils. Additional indicators of hydric soils such as vertical streaking,
high organic matter content in the surface horizon, mottling, and sulfidic odor were evaluated during the
delineation.
Wetlands and jurisdictional waters existing on the project site are regulated by one or both of the
following: Section 404 of the Clean Water Act regarding discharge of dredged or fill materials into the
waters of the United States; and, Sections 1600 et seq. of the California Fish & Game Code which
regulates modifications to streambeds .
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Jurisdiction
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Under section 404 of the Clean Water Act, the ACOE has regulatory authority over the discharge of
dredged or fill materials into the waters of the United States (1344 USC). The term "waters of the
United States" is defined in 33 CFR Part 328 and includes: (I) all navigable waters (including all waters
subject to the ebb and flow of the tide); (2) all interstate waters and wetlands; (3) all other waters such
as intrastate lakes, rivers, streams (including intermittent streams), mudflats, wetlands, sloughs, prairie
potholes, wet meadows, playa lakes, or natural ponds, the use, degradation or destruction of which could
affect interstate or foreign commerce; (4) all impoundments of water mentioned above; (5) all
tributaries to waters mentioned above; (6) the territorial seas; and, (7) all wetlands adjacent to waters
mentioned above.
In the absence of wetlands, the limits of ACOE jurisdiction in non-tidal waters, such as intermittent
streams, extend to the ordinary high water mark (OHWM) which is defined at 33 CFR 328.3(e) as:
... that line on the shore established by the fluctuation of water and indicated by physical
characteristics such as clear, natural line impressed on the bank, shelving, changes in the
character of soil, destruction of terrestrial vegetation, the presence of litter and debris,
or other appropriate means that consider the characteristics of the surrounding areas.
Wetlands are defined at 33 CFR 328.3(b) as "those areas that are inundated or saturated by surface or
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ground water at a frequency and duration sufficient to support ... a prevalence of vegetation typically •
adapted for life in saturated soil conditions."
California Department of Fish and Game
CDFG regulates alterations of "streambeds" through the development of a Streambed Alteration
Agreement pursuant to Division 2, Chapter 6, sections 1600-1603 of the Fish and Game Code. An
Agreement is required whenever a project would "divert, obstruct or change the natural flow or bed,
channel or bank of any river, stream or lake designated by the Department."
The breadth of areas subject to regulation by CDFG under section 1600 are less clearly defined than
those regulated by ACOE; however, in general, the policies are fairly consistent. It is clear that all
"rivers, streams, lakes and streambeds which may exhibit intermittent flows of water" are covered by
the California statutes. Section 1600 et seq. does not extend to isolated wetlands and waters such as
small ponds not located on a drainage course, wet meadows, vernal pools, or tenajas as does federal
jurisdiction. Furthermore, CDFG jurisdiction does not extend over tidal waters. However, section 1600
et seq. jurisdiction extends over all riparian habitat supported by a river, stream, or lake regardless of
the riparian area's federal wetland status.
Unlike the ACOE process, the Streambed Alteration Agreement is not a discretionary permit, but rather
an Agreement developed between an applicant and CDFG with specified avoidance measures, impact
reduction, or mitigation. These measures are subject to acceptance by the applicant. If an Agreement
cannot be reached between CDFG and the applicant, a formal arbitration process is available.
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SCIENTIFIC NOMENCLATURE
The scientific nomenclature used in this report is from the following standard references: vegetation and
wildlife habitat, Holland (1986) and Oberbauer (1993); flora, Skinner and Pavlik (CNPS) (1994),
Hickman (1993 ), or Beauchamp (1986); butterflies, Opler (1999) or Garth and Tilden (I 986);
amphibians and reptiles, Collins ( 1990); birds, American Ornithologists' Union (1983, Seventh Edition);
and mammals, Jameson and Peeters (1988) and Hall (1981 ).
GENERAL PHYSIOGRAPHY
The varied topography of the site includes a canyon area, a complex exposure of slopes, and a major
drainage that bisects the property. A number of tributary runnels provide watershed drainage for this
creek; however, they are generally arid most of the year. A low elevation of 125 feet (MSL) occurs
within the creek, in its northwestern portion. A high elevation of 535 feet (MSL) occurs in the northeast
section of the property.
Surrounding land uses include urban/industrial development to the south and west, with residential
development bordering the study area to the east. Undeveloped, preserved native vegetation occurs to
the north, with a mix of agricultural fields and fragmented native habitats to the northwest. Due to the
nearby housing and businesses, the site receives moderate to high amounts of use by mountain bikers
and hikers, and domestic pets were often seen running free in the northeast corner of the stt1dy area.
Considerable use by illegal immigrants was noted within Agua Hedionda Creek, at the northwest side
of the study area (adjacent to the agricultural fields). Within the oak woodlands elsewhere on the
property, historic and recent evidence of small homeless encampments was observed .
Underlying geology for the site is mapped as Mesozoic granitic rocks in the north, and Eocene marine
deposits in the south (Rogers 1973). A number of soil types are reported from the study area. These
include Altamont Clay, Cieneba coarse sandy loam, Cieneba rocky coarse sandy loam, Cieneba-
Fallbrook rocky sandy loam, Fallbrook sandy loam, Gaviota fine sandy loam, Huerhuero loam, Las
Flores loamy fine sand, Salinas clay loam, Tujunga sand, Visalia sandy loam, Vista coarse sandy loam,
riverwash, and terrace escarpments (Bowman 1973). The clay soils found on-site are of special concern
as they potentially support a number of sensitive plant species. For example, Thread-leaved Brodiaea
(Brodiaeafilifolia) was found in the area mapped as Salinas clay loam, and localized pockets within
Altamont Clay supported San Diego Thorn-mint (Acanthomintha ilicifolia).
BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES
Vegetation, wetlands, and sensitive species are shown in a graphic in the enclosed map pocket.
VEGETATION
Twenty-one vegetation communities were delineated in the study area (Figure 2, Table 2).
Coastal Sage Scrub
Coastal Sage Scrub in the study area is generally dominated by California Sagebrush (Artemisia
californica); Flat-top Buckwheat (Eriogonumfasciculatum), and Laurel Sumac. Locally common shrubs
included Black Sage, California Adolphia, Coyote Brush (Baccharis pilularis), Lemonade-Berry, and
Toyon. Overall, the habitat is moderately tall (5-6 feet in height) and dense; areas locally dominated by
Laurel Sumac, Lemonade-Berry, or Toyon typically exceeded eight feet in height.
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TABLE 2. SUMMARY OF VEGETATION COMMUNITIES • Vegetation Type Holland Code* Acres
Diegan Coastal Sage Scrub 32500 142.29
Coyote Brush Scrub 32000 8.63
Southern Maritime Chaparral/NuttaJl's Scrub Oak 37C30 86.44
Phase
Southern Mixed Chaparral 37120 190.59
Coastal Sage-Chaparral Scrub 37G00 •' 2.48
Valley Needlegrass Grassland 42110 1.17
Non-native Grassland 42200 51.92
Southern Cottonwood-Willow Riparian Forest 61330 22.67
Southern Willow Scrub 63320 13.14
Mule Fat Scrub 63310 0.30
Southern Coast Live Oak Riparian Forest 61310 41.65
Coast Live Oak Woodland 71160 5.36 • Cismontane Alkali Marsh 52310 1.64
Coastal and Valley Freshwater Marsh 52410 3.25
Freshwater Seep 45400 0.25
Emergent Wetland 52440 0.60
Disturbed Wetland 11200 0.06
Open Water (Pond) 13100 0.28
Ornamental/Revegetated 11300 2.69
Agricultural Field 18300 31.44
Exotic Vegetation 11000 3.57
Disturbed Areas 11300 30.91
Urban/Developed 12000 7.77
TOTAL 649.10
* Holland codes as suggested by T. Oberbauer (1993) for San Diego County •
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Numerous wildlife species, including several considered sensitive by resource agencies, occur in the on.;.
site Coastal Sage Scrub habitat. Typical resident species were the California Quail (Callipepla •
californica), California Towhee (Pipilo crissalis), Bushtit (Psaltriparus minimus), and Wrentit
(Chamaeafasciata). Sensitive species observed in this habitat included the San Diego Horned Lizard
(Phrynosoma coronatum blainvillii), Orangethroat Whiptail (Cnemidophorus hyperythrus), California
Gnatcatcher, and Southern California Rufous-crowned Sparrow (Aimophila ruficeps canescens).
Coyote Brush Scrub
Coyote Brush is the defining plant species of this sage scrub-like plant community. On-site it is
generally found adjacent to drainages and where disturbance has precluded other native plant species.
Other species within this habitat are small/moderate numbers of Decumbent Gold.enbush (Jsocoma
menziesii var. menziesii), Flat-top Buckwheat, California Sagebrush, and Poison Oak (Toxicodendron
diversilobum). The understory contains seedlings of the previously mentioned shrubs, various weedy
herbaceous species such as Western Ragweed (Ambrosia psilostachya), as well as both native (e.g.,
Nassella) and non-native grasses (e.g., Avena, Bromus).
Wildlife observed in the Coyote Brush are generally the same as those mentioned for Coastal Sage
Scrub. California Quail were often flushed from this habitat, and California Gnatcatchers were found
foraging in Coyote Brush Scrub in both the center and far eastern portions of the study area.
Southern Maritime Chaparral/Nuttall' Scrub Oak Phase
Southern maritime chaparral/Nuttall' s scrub oak phase is primarily identified in the southwestern and
southern portions of the study area. It is usually defined by a dominance of Nuttall's Scrub Oak.
Summer-Holly may be locally common, or occur as a scattered element. Other plant species found in •
varying amounts in the on-site Southern maritime chaparral/Nuttall's scrub oak phase include Chamise,
Mission Manzanita, Toyon, Lemonade-Berry, and occasional Interior Scrub Oak. This habitat is
typically 5-10 feet tall and relatively dense.
Wildlife use of Southern maritime chaparral/Nuttall' s scrub oak phase included many species commonly
found in Coastal Sage Scrub, as well as species preferring a slightly dense or taller canopy. Wildlife
noted in this habitat included the California Thrasher (Toxostoma redivivum), Spotted Towhee (Pipilo
maculatus), Western Scrub-Jay (Aphelocoma californica), Wrentit, Bewick's Wren (Thryomanes
bewickii), and the relatively ubiquitous California Towhee.
Southern Mixed Chaparral
Southern Mixed Chaparral encompasses several on-site chaparral associations which vary due to relative
abundance of component species, slope exposure, and possibly soil type. Characteristic plants in this
habitat included Chamise (often dominant), Mission Manzanita, Toyon, Black Sage, and Interior Scrub
Oak. Ramona Ceanothus, and Dark-tip Bird's-beak (Cordylanthus rigidus) are localized elements.
Incursions of narrow patches of Flat-top Buckwheat, Laurel Sumac, and California Adelphia are
sometimes isolated components. More gentle and south-facing slopes tend to be dominated by Chamise,
while the north-facing slopes and habitat adjacent to the drainage at the west side of the study area tend
to support Interior Scrub Oak.
The variable shrub composition and density supported good wildlife diversity. Commonly observed in
this habitat were California Towhee, California Quail, Western Scrub-Jay, Spotted Towhee, and Wrentit.
Near rock outcrops, nests of the San Diego Desert Woodrat (Neotoma lepida intermedia) were observed,
and both San Diego Horned Lizard and Orangethroat Whiptail were found along dirt trails within the
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chaparral.
California Sage -Chaparral Scrub
This ecotonal community contains a high proportion of both sage scrub and chaparral indicator species,
as well as plants that regularly occur in both scrub and chaparral communities (e.g., Black Sage, Toyon).
Soil fertility is poor in this ecotonal habitat, a trait supporting chaparral growth. However, sage scrub
representation is too high to map such areas as clearly one vegetation type or the other. Chamise is the
typical chaparral representative, with Mission Manzanita often present as scattered individuals.
California Sagebrush, Flat-top Buckwheat, and Laurel Sumac are the most common sage scrub species.
The habitat is generally 4-6 feet in height, and shrub density is considered moderate, creating a habitat
which physically is quite similar to the on-site sage scrub. It is expected to be used by most, if not all,
of the reptile, bird, and mammal species occurring in the adjacent or nearby sage scrub.
Valley Needlegrass Grassland (Native Grassland)
Native grass species are commonly encountered on the property but in most areas they have been
reduced to a very small component amidst non-native grass species. Native bunch grasses, primarily
Purple Needlegrass (Nassella pulchra), dominate the cover. Substantial numbers of Blue-eyed Grass
(Sysrinchium bell um) were noted in mesic areas. Also present were Big Gum plant ( Grindelia camporum
var. camporum ), Cudweed Aster (Lessingiafilaginifolia var .filaginifolia), Fremont's Camas (Zigadenus
fremontii), and at one location Clay Bindweed (Convolvulus simulans). Highly noteworthy is the very
localized presence of San Diego Thorn-mint (Acanthomintha ilicifolia), identified in several very small
pockets of native grass in areas otherwise dominated by chaparral vegetation. Friable clay soils
dominate this localized habitat.
Due to the small size of these habitat patches, they are not likely to support important populations of
wildlife species. Animals associated with grassland habitat are discussed below, under the Non-native
Grassland section, due to the far more extensive cover of non-native grass habitat.
Non-native Grassland
This community is primarily found in the southern portions of the property. Historically, areas now
dominated by non-native grasses probably supported native grasslands, and sage scrub. Conversion from
these habitats probably resulted from a combination of disturbances, including agricultural practices,
construction of the adjacent industrial park, and possibly unusually frequent fires. Slender Wild Oat
(Avena barbata) was perhaps the most conspicuous dominant species, but brome grasses (Bromus spp.),
Italian Ryegrass (Leymus multi.fl.drum), and Red-stem Filaree (Erodium cicutarium) were also strongly
represented. In some areas, the canopy was strongly dominated by mustards (Brassica nigra,
Hirschfeldia incana). Other common species in the Non-native Grasslands were Bindweed
(Convolvulus arvensis), Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), Tocalote (Centaurea melitensis), Horehound
(Marrubium vulgare ), and Western Jimsonweed (Datura wrightii).
The on-site grasslands are very important foraging and nesting habitat for the breeding pair ofNorthern
Harriers (Circus cyaneus), which fledged two young on-site. The grasslands also receive use by other
foraging raptors, as well as grassland-associated species such as the Western Meadowlark (Sturnella
neglecta) and California Vole (Microtus californicus). Droppings of the San Diego Black-tailed
Jackrabbit (Lepus californicus bennettii) were also noted in this habitat.
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Southern Cottonwood-Willow Riparian Forest
This habitat occurs along Agua Hedionda Creek where mature, often well-spaced Western Sycamores
(Platanus racemosa), dominated the canopy. Arroyo Willow (Salix /asiolepis), Goodding's Black
Willow (Salix gooddingii), and Lance-leaf Willow (Salix lucida ssp. lasiandra) formed supporting
patches of habitat, but did not provide a large band of canopy as occurs farther downstream. Mature
Coast Live Oaks (Quercus agrifolia) also contributed substantially to the peripheral canopy. The
variable but often open understory contained scattered young willows, Mule Fat, Western Ragweed
(Ambrosia psilostachya), Mugwort (Artemisia douglasiana), Celery (Apium graveolens), Hedge Nettle
(Stachys ajugoides var. rigida), and Poison Oak.
Areas delineated as Southern Cottonwood-Willow Riparian Forest in this report have, been categorized
as Sycamore Alluvial Woodland by Dudek (1999b) and as Coast Live Oak Riparian 'Forest by KEA
(1998). None of these three categories fit the on-site community particularly well for various reasons.
The Sycamore Alluvial Woodland category is fairly accurate from a physical description, but many of
the component species do not occur this far to the south, and the habitat is reported to be restricted to
areas north of Santa Barbara County (Holland 1986). Use of the Southern Coast Live Oak Riparian
Forest category is not recommended due to the lack of emphasis on the willow component; this category
is used elsewhere on-site where Coast Live Oaks are the primary component of riparian habitat. The
oak component is locally high compared to most sites delineated as Cottonwood-Willow Riparian
Forest; however, this category is believed to best represent the mixed deciduous riparian wildlife
community, while maintaining distinction for other on-site areas delineated as Southern Coast Live Oak
Riparian Forest.
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Wildlife found using the habitat included many relatively common species of the region. Examples
include Black-headed Grosbeak (Pheucticus melanocephalus), Hooded Oriole (Icterus cucullatus), •
Bullock's Oriole (Icterus bullockii), Orange-crowned Warbler ( Vermivora celata), Nuttall' s Woodpecker
(Picoides nuttallii), Pacific-slope Flycatcher (Empidonax diffici/is), and nesting Red-tailed Hawk (Buteo
jamaicensis), as well as very common birds such as the Song Sparrow (Melospiza melodia), Lesser
Goldfinch (Carduelis psaltria), and European Starling (Sturnus vulgaris). Noteworthy sightings include
the Cooper's Hawk (Accipiter cooperii) and Downy Woodpecker (Picoides pubescens).
Southern Willow Scrub
Relatively small but dense stands of willows (Salix spp.) are found in the south-central portion of the
study area. Despite the size, the habitat structure appears suitable for use by the Least Bell's Vireo, but
none were observed. Noteworthy in this habitat was the presence of two male Yellow-breasted Chats
(Jcteria virens), each of which is expected to have been breeding on-site. A migratory Willow
Flycatcher (Empidonax traillii) was also observed in this woodland habitat.
Mule Fat Scrub
Stands of Mule Fat (Baccharis salicifolia) define this relatively minor on-site habitat. It was delineated
in a few narrow drainages in the northwest section of the study area. Agricultural fields closely border
this habitat, making it of relatively low vaiue to wildlife.
Southern Coast Live Oak Riparian Forest
This vegetation type is generally defined where Coast Live Oaks dominate the riparian canopy. •
Occasional in this habitat are Western Sycamore, with various species of willows being uncommon and
isolated elements. The understory usually consists of dense Poison Oak and leaf litter.
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Wildlife species commonly identified in the oak riparian woodland included the House Wren
(Troglodytes aedon), Nuttall's Woodpecker, Acorn Woodpecker (Melanerpes formicivorus), and
Hutton's Vireo (Vireo huttoni). Both the Red-shouldered Hawk (Buteo lineatus) and White-tailed Kite
(Elanus leucurus) nested in this oak habitat, and two owl species are known to occur: Barn Owl (Tyto
alba) and Great Horned Owl (Bubo virginianus). Another owl species, the Western Screech:-Owl ( Otus
kennicottii), is reported to occur in areas upstream (Geoff Rogers, personal communication), and may
also occur in the on-site oak woodlands.
Coast Live Oak Woodland
Coast Live Oaks also occur away from drainages, but in most cases they closely blend with the above-
described oak riparian forest. The understory is again dominated by Poison Oak, but lacks a streambed
component. Other understory species include native species such as Narrow-leaf Milkweed (Asclepias
fascicularis) and American Vetch (Vicia americana var. americana), and non-natives such as Goose
Straw (Galium aparine), Smile Grass (Piptatherum miliaceum), Mediterranean Schismus (Schismus
barbatus), and Johnsongrass (Sorghum halepense).
This oak habitat was observed, or is expected, to generally support similar wildlife species as discussed
for the riparian oak woodlands.
Cismontane Alkaline Marsh
Cismontane Alkali Marsh occurs in a few relatively small patches near the dirt road in the_ southern
portion of the property. Species included here were Southwestern Spiny Rush (Juncus acutus),
Spearscale Saltbush (Atriplex triangularis), and Dombey's Spike-sedge (Eleocharis montevidensis). The
small size of this habitat is unlikely to support diverse wildlife associated with marsh habitat, but
common species such as Song Sparrow and Common Yellowthroat ( Geothlypis trichas) were observed.
Coastal and Valley Freshwater Marsh
Freshwater Marsh habitat is associated with inundated portions of drainages and a small pond. The
dominant plant associated with this habitat was Broad-leaved Cattail (Typha latifolia) which forms a
dense, five to seven foot tall canopy. Southwestern Spiny Rush is occasionally found at the edges of this
habitat type, along with Saltgrass (Distichlis spicata) and Celery (Apium graveolens).
The dense cattail habitat supported Red-winged Blackbird (Agelaius phoeniceus), Common
Yellowthroat, Song Sparrow, and Sora (Porzana carolina). The Northern Harrier was often seen
foraging near the marsh habitat in the southeast corner of the property.
Freshwater Seep
A small area of Freshwater Seep vegetation ·is delineated just west of the pond located in the central
portion of the site. This habitat is characterized by low-growing (one to three feet tall) herbaceous
wetland species such as Dombey's Spike-sedge, Mexican Rush, Willow Herb (Epilobium ciliatum), and
Salt Marsh Fleabane (Pluchea odorata). However, this habitat occurs adjacent to taller trees (e.g.,
willows) and shrubs (e.g., Coyote Brush); Pampas Grass is rapidly overtaking the general area. These
fluctuating canopy heights and the small area of seep vegetation attract both common marsh wi !di ife
such as Song Sparrows, or species associated with surrounding upland habitats (e.g., California Towhee).
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Emergent Wetland
This category identifies a weedy wetland community found within or near drainages. Plant species
typical of this wetland type included Bristly Ox-tongue, Annual Beard Grass, and Cocklebur. Wildlife
associated with this minor on-site habitat included the Song Sparrow, House Finch (Carpodacus
mexicanus), and Lesser Goldfinch.
Disturbed Wetland
A very small patch (0.1 acre) of Disturbed Wetland occurs adjacent to a detention basin supporting
willows and freshwater marsh, located in the south-central part of the study area. This Disturbed
Wetland primarily consists ofa narrow band of European Tamarisk (Tamarix parviflora) which occupies
a shallow drainage leading to the detention basin. Wildlife observed in this habitat included the
Common Yellowthroat, Song Sparrow, Red-winged Blackbird, and Lesser Goldfinch.
Open Water (Pond)
A small pond occurs in the west central portion of the study area (near the western boundary of the
Carlsbad Oaks property). A pond of such small size, away from a sizeable drainage, would be expected
to be dry for much of the year. However, it is fed by the persistent seep in this south-facing slope.
Ornamental/Revegetated Area
The slope abutting the commercial development to the south was planted with a mixture of sage scrub
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species and exotic species. Ornamentals including Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus sp.), Perez Rosemary •
(Limonium perezii), and a non-native Gumplant (Grindelia sp.) were established through irrigation.
Otherwise, the slope would show a fairly good recovery dominated by sage scrub species such as
California Sagebrush, Coyote Brush, and Quail Saltbush (Atriplex lentiformis).
Exotic Vegetation
This category includes areas of Eucalyptus near the agricultural operations, landscape plantings near
commercial buildings, and a large stand of Pampas Grass (Cortaderiajubata) in the central part of the
study area.
Agricultural Field
Row crops occur in the northwest portion of the study area. The open, disturbed condition attracts
relatively few species, such as the Say's Phoebe (Sayornis saya), Black Phoebe (Sayornis nigricans),
Killdeer (Charadrius vociferus), and Horned Lark (Eremophila alpestris). Red-winged Blackbird,
Brewer's Blackbird (Euphagus cyanocephalus), and European Starling are also regularly found foraging
in agricultural areas.
Disturbed Areas
This category includes various cleared areas, primarily dirt roads, which are so frequently disturbed that
they support less than 30% cover by .non-native grasses. In some cases these areas are used to store
agricultural supplies (stakes, etc.), but generally do not show a permanent impact. Due to their open and
disturbed condition, these areas are generally of very low value to wildlife; however, dirt roads passing •
through native vegetation provide basking sites for reptiles (e.g., San Diego Horned Lizard), and may
serve as local travel routes for mammals.
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Urban/Developed
The Urban category is applied to paved roads and buildings. It accounts for just under eight acres of the
study area.
FLORA
A total of 250 plant species was identified in the study area. Of this total, 82 species (33%) are not
native to the region. The study area contains an excellent mix of plants representing both coastal and
inland influences, as exemplified by Nuttall's Scrub Oak and Interior Scrub Oak, and numerous hybrids
of these two species. The study area also supports one of the most coastal incursions of Eastwood
Manzanita (Arctostaphylos glandulosa ssp. zacaensis). All locations of plants previously identified as
Del Mar Manzanita (Arctostaphylos glandulosa ssp. crassifolia) were confirmed to be the similar but
non-sensitive Eastwood Manzanita. Del Mar Manzanita is known, however, from relatively short
distances to the south and west. This issue is discussed more thoroughly in the Sensitive Resources
section of this report.
A moderate number of sensitive species are included in the flora. These include Western Dichondra
(Dichondra occidentalis), Small-flowered Morning Glory (Convolvulus simulans), Summer-Holly,
Engelmann Oak (Quercus engelmannii), San Diego Sagewort (Artemisia palmeri), Southwestern Spiny
Rush, San Diego Goldenstar (Mui/la clevelandii), and an abundance of California Adolphia. State and
federal listed plant species found on-site are San Diego Thorn-mint and Thread-leaved Brodiaea
(Brodiaeafilifolia) .
The site clearly shows strong evidence of disturbance in many areas. This is perhaps best illustrated by
the presumed conversion of native grassland/sage scrub in the southern portions of the study area.
Conversely, in areas of established sage scrub an open chaparral, Ashy Spike-Moss (Selaginella
cinerascens), formerly considered a low sensitivity species, is common. This species is regarded as an
indicator of low levels of soil disturbance. An obvious threat to the on-site habitat quality is the
expansion of Pampas Grass. Comparison of aerial photographs dated January 4, 2000 and March 1,
1994 clearly show a dramatic expansion of this species in the southwest facing seep area (west/central
part of the study area).
WETLAND RESOURCES
Eight wetland habitat types and two jurisdictional non-wetlands occur on-site (Figure 3, Table 3, map
pocket). These are Southern Cottonwood-willow Riparian Forest, Southern Willow Scrub, Mule Fat
Scrub, Cismontane Alkali Marsh, Coastal and Valley Freshwater Marsh, Freshwater Seep, Emergent
Wetland, and Disturbed Wetland. Additional jurisdictional resources found on-site consist of Non-
wetland Waters of the U.S. The wetlands and waterways are discussed in further detail below.
Southern Cottonwood-Willow Riparian Forest
A total of22.7 acres of Southern Cottonwood-Willow Riparian Forest vegetation occurs in the western
portion of the property, along the site's main drainage. Facultative wetland (F ACW) associated Western
Sycamores ranging from approximately 50 to 70 feet in height dominate the canopy. Other trees, found
in smaller numbers, included Lance-leaf Willow (Salix lucida ssp. lasiandra), an OBL species, and
Coast Live Oak, an upland species. The understory of this Riparian Woodland habitat consists of both
wetland associated plants such as Mugwort (Artemisia douglasiana) and upland species such as Rip-gut
Grass (Bromus diandrus).
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TABLE 3. SUMMARY OF WETLANDS AND JURISDICTIONAL NON-WETLAND WATERS OF THE U.S .
Wetland or Jurisdictional Habitat Type Acres
Southern Cottonwood-Willow Riparian Forest 22.7
Southern Willow Scrub 13.1
Mule Fat Scrub 0.3
Cismontane Alkali Marsh 1.6
Coastal and Valley Freshwater Marsh I 3.3
Freshwater Seep 0.3
Emergent Wetland 0.6
Disturbed Wetland 0.1
Open Water (Pond) (ACOE jurisdiction only) 0.3
Non-wetland Waters of the U.S. (streambeds) 2.2
TOTAL 44.5
Wetland hydrology for the Cottonwood-Willow Riparian Forest was demonstrated by a braided
streambed; jurisdiction extends from bank to bank. Soils in this area were sandy and demonstrated
hydric characteristics such as organic streaking.
Southern Willow Scrub
Large areas of Southern Willow Scrub occur along the drainages in the central portion of the study area.
Some smaller areas of Southern Willow Scrub are also found scattered throughout the study area. The
canopy of the Southern Willow Scrub habitat found on-site is almost exclusively made up of OBL
Lance-leaf Willows and FACW Arroyo Willows (Salix lasiolepis) ranging in height from 20 to 30 feet.
Understory components include Mexican Rush (Juncus mexicanus) and Annual Beard Grass (Polypogon
monspeliensis), which are F ACW species, as well as Coyote Brush (Baccharis pilularis) and Pampas
Grass, both upland species. Hydrology was indicated by the presence of drainage patterns and oxidized
root channels in the upper 12 inches. Low-chroma color soil and the presence of mottles indicated
hydric soils. A total of 13 .1 acres of jurisdictional Southern Willow Scrub was delineated within the
study area.
Mule Fat Scrub
Several small patches of Mule Fat Scrub totaling 0.3 acre occur within the drainages in the western half
of the property. The Mule Fat Scrub on-site mainly consists of Mule Fat (Baccharis salicifolia), which
is a F ACW species. The Mule Fat Scrub also includes other wetland associated plants such as Annual
Beard Grass, and Bristly Ox-tongue (Picris echioides). Upland-associated species including Red Brome
(Bromus madritensis ssp. rubens) are also found intermixed within the Mule Fat Scrub. Hydrology was
demonstrated by drainage patterns; mottling, low chroma soils with mottles indicated hydric soils.
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Cismontane Alkali Marsh
Cismontane Alkali Marsh occurs in a few areas scattered in the vicinity of the main road located in the
southern portion of the property. This marsh community is dominated by F ACW species that can
tolerate relatively high soil salinity. Species included here are Southwestern Spiny Rush (Juncus
acutus), Halberd-leaf Saltbush (Atriplex triangularis), and Dombey's Spike-sedge (Eleocharis
montevidensis). Drainage patterns and oxidized root channels in the upper 12 inches revealed wetland
hydrology. Soil pits in these areas revealed a low chroma matrix with mottling.
Coastal and Valley Freshwater Marsh
Freshwater Marsh habitat is associated with inundated portions of the site's prominent drainages. The
dominant plant associated with this habitat is Cattail (Typha latifolia) which forms a closed canopy that
is five to seven feet in height. A lower growing marsh species, Southwestern Spiny Rush, is found along
the edges of this habitat type, along with a number of other wetland associates such as Saltgrass
(Distichlis spicata), Celery, and Bristly Ox-tongue. Soils exhibited hydric characteristics such as sulfidic
odor, gleyed or low-chroma colors, aquic moisture regime, and/or organic streaking. Soils were also
typically either saturated in the upper 12 inches or inundated.
Freshwater Seep
A 0.3 acre area of Freshwater Seep vegetation was delineated west of the open water pond located in
the central portion of the site. This habitat is characterized by low-growing herbaceous F ACW and OBL
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plants such as Dom bey's Spike-sedge, Mexican Rush, Willow Herb (Epilobium ciliatufn ), and Salt Marsh •
Fleabane (Pluchea odorata). Wetland hydrology was demonstrated by oxidized root channels in the
upper 12 inches, and low chroma colors with mottling indicated the presence of hydric soils.
Emergent Wetland
Approximately 0.6 acre of jurisdictional Emergent Wetland occurs within the study area. Plants.typical
of this Emergent Wetland includes Bristly Ox-tongue, Annual Beard Grass, and Cocklebur (Xanthium
strumarium ). The dominance of F AC and F ACW species indicates hydrophytic vegetation in these
areas. The stands of Emergent Wetland exhibit signs of hydrology in the form of drift lines, sediment
deposits, and drainage patterns. Soil samples from test pits revealed hydric soil indicators such as
mottles.
Disturbed Wetland
A small 0.1 acre area of Disturbed Wetland occurs adjacent to a large area of willows and freshwater
marsh located in the south-central part of the study area. This habitat type primarily consists of
European Tamarisk, a weedy, non-native wetland plant species. Hydrology in this area consists of
drainage patterns.
Non-wetland Waters of the U.S.
Approximately 2.2 acres (95,402.5 square feet) of jurisdictional (ACOE and CDFG) Non-wetland
Waters are found within the study area. Non-wetland Waters are composed primarily of incised
drainages of varying width that lack hydrophytic vegetation and/or hydric soil indicators. Many of the
Non-wetland Waters found on site consist of the drainages that run beneath the Southern Coast Live Oak
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Riparian Forest. Inundation and saturation in the upper 12 inches further indicated hydrology within
these drainages. The lack of hydric indicators such as drainage patterns and drift lines above the incised
drainages indicated that the Ordinary High Watermark does not occur above the depth of the channel.
Plants which dominated the Southern Coast Live Oak Riparian Forest vegetation include Coast Live
Oak, Poison Oak, Pampas Grass, and Laurel Sumac, which are non-indicator species. Although a few
facultative or facultative wetland species such as San Diego Sedge and Arroyo Willow are present, they
are not present in such abundance to be considered a dominant species, or they do not make up more
than 50% of the dominant species.
Vegetation occurring within the remainder of the Non-wetland Waters of the U.S. drainages found on-
site was typically comprised ofDiegan Coastal Sage Scrub or Chaparral (both upland habitats) species.
Included here are Flat-top Buckwheat, Laurel Sumac, Black Sage, and Chamise. These upland plants
were occasionally intermixed with non-native, invasive species such as Pampas Grass, and/or with
wetland-associated species such as Annual Beard Grass (F ACW). Once again, although wetland-
associated plants sporadically occurred within the drainages, they did not comprise of more than 50%
of the dominant species. Therefore, the drainages still lacked the proper hydrophytic vegetation criteria
to be considered jurisdictional wetland habitat.
The pond habitat (0.3 acre) is also considered a Non-wetland Water of the U.S., and under jurisdiction
of the ACOE. However, because the pond is fed by a seep, and not on a defined drainage, it does not
fall under jurisdiction of CDFG.
Hydric soils indicators were observed within most of the Non-wetland Waters occurring on-site. These
indicators consisted of gleyed or low chroma colors, mottling, and/or sulfidic odor .
Wetlands Functions and Values
The jurisdictional wetlands and waterways on-site represent relatively high quality habitats. The on-site
wetlands include large stands of dense, continuous Southern Cottonwood-Willow Riparian Forest and
Southern Willow Scrub. These vegetation communities have a high biological value based on factors
such as canopy development, understory plant diversity, and wildlife species richness. These vegetation
types provide a multi-layer canopy, which supports sensitive riparian birds such as Yellow Warbler and
Yellow-breasted Chat, as well as more common species including Song Sparrow, Lesser Goldfinch,
Yellow-rumped Warbler (Dendroica coronata), and Common Yellowthroat. Riparian drainages such
as these are important as wildlife movement areas for a variety of detected mammal species including
Coyote (Canis latrans), Bobcat (Fe/is rufus), Gray Fox (Urocyon cinereoargenteus), Striped Skunk
(Mephitis mephitis), and Raccoon (Procyon lotor). Additionally, the smaller ponding areas and
abundance of leaf litter beneath the larger stands of riparian trees may provide breeding habitat for
various amphibian species including the Pacific Chorus Frog (Pseudacris regil/a) and Western Toad
(Bufo boreas). The heights of the oaks, sycamores, and willows are indicative of a mature, well-
developed riparian system.
Overall, the on-site wetlands and waterways also have high physical and chemical functions. This is
mostly attributed to the areas of the drainages that are vegetated by Cismontane Alkali Marsh and
Coastal and Valley Freshwater Marsh habitat. The dense herbaceous vegetation occurring in these
communities allows for groundwater recharge, sediment retention, and to xi cant retention. The sediment
and toxicant retention of these areas improves the conditions of the areas downstream by reducing
sediment loading. Nutrient transformation on-site is also expected to be high given the presence of
significant woody and herbaceous vegetation, high plant diversity, and alkaline soils.
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WILDLIFE RESOURCES
Butterflies
Behr's Metalmark (Apodemia virgulti) was common throughout areas of sage scrub. Other species
found in sage scrub, chaparral, or where shrubs were mixed with grassland, included the Brown Elfin
(Callophrys augustinus), Acmon Blue (Icaricia acmon), Bernardino Dotted-Blue (Euphilotes
bernardino), and Funereal Duskywing (Erynnisfuneralis). The California Sister (Adelpha bredowii .
californica) was characteristically found associated with oak woodland, while the similar Lorquin's
Admiral (Basilarchia lorquini) was observed in better quality riparian woodland along Agua Hedionda
Creek. Other species found in riparian habitat included Western Tiger Swallowtail (Papilio rutulus),
Anise Swallowtail (Pipilio zelicaon), and Mourning Cloak (Nymphalis antiopa). AwaY, from the main
drainages, but still in relatively mesic areas or grassland, Common Buckeye (Junonia coenia), Sara
Orangetip (Anthocharis sara sara), Cabbage White (Pieris rapae), and White Checkered-Skipper
(Pyrgus albescens) were observed. Common Ringlet ( Coenympha tuilla) was also present in abundance
in grasslands.
No sensitive butterfly species are known to occur on-site. Harbison's Dun Skipper (Euphyes vestris
harbisoni) could potentially occur in the on-site oak riparian woodlands supporting dense populations
of San Diego Sedge (Carex spissa), the larval host plant of this butterfly.
Fish
The non-native Mosquitofish (Gambusia <if.finis) was the only fish species observed in the study area.
No sensitive or native fish species are expected to occur on-site.
Amphibians
Three amphibian species are present in the combined study areas. Pacific Chorus Frog (Pseudacris
regilla) was occasionally heard calling from riparian and marshy areas, and tadpoles of this species were
observed in more downstream portions of Agua Hedionda Creek. Tadpoles of the Western Toad (Bufo
boreas) were also observed in this stretch of creek, as was an individual Bullfrog (Rana catesbeiana).
Other amphibian species which may occur on-site include the Western Spadefoot (Scaphiopus
hammondii), Garden Slender Salamander (Batrachoseps major), and the Ensatina (Ensatina
eschscholtzii).
Reptiles
Despite the direct and indirect effects of human/urban encroachment (mountain biking, hiking, illegal
immigrant encampments, and adjacent urbanization to the west, east, and south), the site supports a
diverse reptile fauna, including several species considered to be sensitive and uncommon or absent from
coastal areas with urban encroachment. The large tract of similar, preserved habitat to the north
enhances on-site quality and may ·account for the abundance of reptile species on-site.
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Lizard species present included common forms such as the Western Fence Lizard (Sceloporus
occidentalis), Side-blotched Lizard (Uta stansburiana), and Southern Alligator Lizard (Elgaria
multicarinata), and sensitive species including the San Diego Horned Lizard and Orangethroat Whiptail.
The San Diego Horned Lizard is not often found near urban development. Other sensitive lizard species
which were not observed but may be present are the Coronado Skink (Eumeces skiltonianus •
interparietalis), Legless Lizard (Annie/la pulchra), and Coastal Whiptail (Cnemidophorus tigris
multiscutatus).
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Snake species identified on-site during the 2000 surveys were the Common Kingsnake (Lampropeltus
getula) and Striped Racer (Masticophis lateralis). A Coast Patchnose Snake (Salvadora hexalepis
virgultea) was observed in the study area during a prior investigation of the proposed sewer alignment
(M&A 1997), as were the Gopher Snake (Pituophis melanoleucus) and Northern Red Diamond
Rattlesnake ( Crotalus ruber ruber) (Dudek 1999b ). The sensitive Two-striped Garter Snake
(Thamnophis hammondii) has good potential to occur in on-site riparian habitats. Other snake species
with moderate or better potential to occur on-site are the Western Blind Snake (Leptotyphlops humilis),
Coachwhip (Masticophis flagellum), San Diego Ringneck Snake (Diadophis punctatus similis), and
Southern Pacific Rattlesnake (Crotalus viridis helleri).
Birds
Due to the general dominance of sage scrub on the property, as well as open chaparral which functions
in a very similar manner as sage scrub, many of the observed bird species were associated with these
habitat types. Resident bird species more strictly associated with sage scrub or chaparral included the
following: California Quail, California Gnatcatcher, Wrentit, California Thrasher, Bewick's Wren, and
Rufous-crowned Sparrow, all of which were common on-site. Also observed were the Greater
Roadrunner (Geococcyx californianus) and Common Poorwill (Phalaenoptilus nuttallii). The
scrublands also supported several species regarded as habitat generalists in coastal San Diego County.
Species noted to be widespread and occurring in a variety of habitat types included Anna's
Hummingbird (Calypte anna), Bushtit, Mourning Dove (Zenaida macroura), California Towhee, House
Finch, and Lesser Goldfinch. During the winter, the White-crowned Sparrow (Zonotrichia leucophrys)
and Yellow-rumped Warbler (Dendroica coronata) are expected to be abundant and widespread in the
study area .
Grassland associates were rather limited, and included the Western Meadowlark and Northern Harrier.
Other bird species with a preference for grassland habitat which may occur, particularly in the winter
season are the Savannah Sparrow (Passerculus sandwichensis) and Vesper Sparrow (Pooecetes
gramineus). Flycatchers such as the observed Say's Phoebe and Black Phoebe, often forage in grassland
habitat. Two sensitive species, the Loggerhead Shrike (Lanius ludovicianus) and the Grasshopper
Sparrow (Ammodramus savannarum), are potential inhabitants of this community but have not been
reported from the study area.
Raptor species observed nesting in the study area are the Red-tailed Hawk (Buteo jamaicensis), White-
tailed Kite (Elanus leucurus), and Northern Harrier (Circus cyaneus); the Cooper's Hawk (Accipiter
cooperii) and American Kestrel (Falco sparverius) are also resident to the study area and expected to
breed in the on-site woodlands. A Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus) was seen soaring over the
property in October 2000, and presumably was a migratory or wintering individual. Although the
Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos) has been historically observed on-site, it is not resident to the
immediate area and unlikely to forage on-site on a regular basis. The Sharp-shinned Jiawk (Accipiter
striatus ), a wintering species to the region, is also documented from the property (Dudek 1999b ). Non-
raptors observed soaring over the site include the Turkey Vulture (Cathartes aura), Common Raven
(Corvus corax), and American Crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos). Cliff Swallow (Petrochelidon
pyrrhonota), Northern Rough-winged Swallow (Stelgidopteryx serripennis), Barn Swallow (Hirundo
rustica), and White-throated Swift (Aeronautes saxatalis) were also commonly observed flying over the
property .
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Mammals
Predatory species identified in the study area were the Coyote, Bobcat, and Gray Fox. Other carnivores
detected were the Raccoon and Striped Skunk. The non-native Virginia Opossum (Didelphis
virginianus) is also expected to be present. Despite the suitable habitat, Mule Deer ( Odocoileus
hemionus) appear to be absent from the study area, as no tracks or droppings were identified during the
surveys.
California Ground Squirrel (Spermophilus beecheyi) and Desert Cottontail (Sylvilagus audubonii) were
common on-site, and limited amounts of sign indicated that the Black-tailed Jackrabbit was present but
probably uncommon or rare in the study area. Stick nests and droppings of both the San Diego Desert
Woodrat and Dusky-footed Woodrat (Neotomafuscipes) were observed, as well characteristic mounds
of Botta' s Pocket Gopher (Thomomys bottae ). Other expected rodent species include the California Vole
(Microtus californicus), San Diego Pocket Mouse (Chaetodipusfallaxfallax), Pacific Kangaroo Rat
(Dipodomys agilis), Western Harvest Mouse (Rheithrodontomys megalotis), Deer Mouse (Peromyscus
maniculatus), and Cactus Mouse (Peromyscus eremicus). These rodents and rabbits combine to form
an important prey base for carnivores, raptorial birds, and snakes.
Bats are another mammal group expected to occur on-site; however,high quality roosting habitat is
limited to very old trees in the extreme northwestern arm of the study area. Species which may forage
on-site include the California Myotis (Myotis californicus), Yuma Myotis (Myotis yumanensis), Big
Brown Bat (Eptesicus Juscus), Pallid Bat (Antrozous pallidus), and Brazilian Free-tailed Bat (Tadarida
brasiliensis).
Wildlife Movement Corridors
Wildlife corridors can be defined as linear landscape features that allow animal movement between two
patches of habitat. Corridors are typically thought of as facilitating concentrated wildlife movement
through areas where natural topography (e.g., cliffs or steep slopes, or by providing cover from
predators) or urbanization limit animal passage. Corridors may function in different ways, depending
upon the time of year and the species being considered. Wildlife corridors can be classified as short,
local, or regional corridors. Short corridors typically serve the daily needs of individuals, and can be
referred to as travel routes. A short corridor may allow an animal to pass through unsuitable habitat in
order to access water, a den site, or a foraging area. Short corridors regularly exist for individual animals
within the study area, but impacts to these travel routes would not be considered significant unless all
reasonable access to a critical resource (e.g., water source) is being severed by project development.
A local corridor works on a slightly larger scale and generally allows movement between discrete habitat
patches. By connecting two or more habitat patches, local corridors allow the patches to function as a
larger block of habitat. Such connections may allow persistence of species or populations which could
not be accommodated by any one of the component patches. In the case of the present study area,
disruption of existing local corridors by the project elements (road, sewer, commercial development)
are not expected to be a significant issue. This is because the existing habitats, though sometimes
patchy, are not currently considered to be isolated from one another. However, implementation of
project elements does have the potential to fragment the site into multiple patches. While the projects
may not directly eliminate a species, they could create, or result in increased importance of, local
corridors needed for a species to persist in the remaining habitat. This could be the case for species such
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as the Bobcat, Coyote, or Gray Fox; however, more likely is that these species would be directly or •
indirectly eliminated from the study area, or would persist in lower numbers of individuals isolated in
contiguous habitat patches on-and/or off-site.
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Regional corridors work over a much broader scale, and enable movement between very large tracts of
undeveloped land. Natural corridors (i.e., not formed by urban encroachment) typically are found either
along canyon bottomlands or ridgelines because these features often provide relatively unobstructed and
easier travel routes. For the same reason, dirt roads, trails, and firebreaks may also be favored through
dense vegetation. Preferred corridors also typically provide cover from predators, which another reason
why riparian areas are commonly used for wildlife movement.
The study area is part of Core #5 in the City of Carlsbad's Habitat Management Plan (HMP), and is
connected to Core #6 via Link D (Figure 4). The main southerly on-site drainage extending east-west
through the study area is considered a regional wildlife corridor based upon its riparian habitat and
available cover, and other factors including the surrounding existing and proposed development (as
shown in the HMP for the Carlsbad Oaks North development). This corridor was also identified in the
biological investigations of KEA (1998). This drainage provides the only available avenue for wildlife
movement (eastward, then south) through the study area to reach the Carlsbad Raceway property (the
northwestern section of Link D). Though tenuous, Link D then connects southward across Palomar
Airport Road to lands to the south.
On the other side of the study area, Agua Hedionda Creek allows for wildlife movement to the west
(toward Agua Hedionda Lagoon) and north (through Los Monos Canyon). The HMP also shows
connection of Core #5 to Core #3 through Link C (refer Figure 4). Link C consists of a mix of sage
scrub and agricultural fields.
SENSITIVE SPECIES
Sensitive Plant Species Identified On-Site
The following information is based on Reiser (1996).
San Diego Thorn-mint fAcanthomintha ilicifolia (Gray) Gray]
Listing: CNPS List 1 B
State/Fed.Status --CE/FT
R-E-D Code 2-3-2
LAMIACEAE Apr.-Jun.
Distribution:
Habitat:
Known Sites:
Global Rank Gl State Rank Sl.1
San Diego County; Baja California, Mexico
Grassy openings, often within chaparral or sage scrub, with friable or broken clay soils
are the characteristic habitat of this species. These small clay lenses may be associated
with Las Posas or San Miguel-Exchequer soils. Typically, the microhabitat favored by
San Diego Thorn-mint is quite distinctive. Only spring annuals, bulbous perennials,
and a few herbaceous elements are found with this small annual. All sites examined
have a crumbly and/or deeply fissured soil which noticeably compresses, even during
the dry season. Associates: Sisyrinchium helium, Bloomeria crocea, Convolvulus
simulans.
Known populations of San Diego Thorn-mint are typically small. Extant colonies are
found in Mission Trails Park, in Alpine, and at several locations near the summit of
McGinty Mountain. Other populations are known from Poway, Suncrest, near Lower
Otay Reservoir, Otay Mesa, Olivenhain, Encinitas, San Marcos, on Viejas Grade at
Poser Mountain, near Sycamore Regional Park, and near Ramona. Reported locations
near the present study area include near Carlsbad Raceway in San Marcos, and at the
Carillo Ranch near EI Fuerte Street in Carlsbad.
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Status: San Diego Thorn-mint is substantially declining; many historical populations are
extirpated and many extant sites are imperiled by urban pressures. This species may
be difficult to detect in the fall and winter unless one is familiar with its distinctive
microhabitat. These often tiny plants remain rigid and retain their distinctive shape
well into the dry season. While this annual can be raised from seed, suitable friable
clay microhabitats are quite uncommon and place strict limitations on establishment
of new populations. Given the very small total area utilized by a typical population,
and the tenuous long-term prognosis for such limited microhabitats in a heavily
urbanized region, existing sites with under 100 plants flowering in a typical rainfall
year need to be well protected from human incursions. All larger populations should
be fully protected.
Project Site: Five patches of San Diego Thorn-mint are known to occur in the sttidy area. Four of
these are in the southwest corner, and generally well-distanced from the existing access
road. The other site, supporting approximately 200 plants, is located just west of the
oak-dominated drainage, and approximately 1400 feet east of the current termination
of Faraday Avenue, in the western portion of the study area.
San Diego Sagewort [Artemisia palmeri Gray]
Listing: CNPS: recently de-listed
State/Fed. Status --None
R-E-D Code: formerly 2-2-1
ASTERACEAE Jul.-Sep.
Distribution:
Habitat:
Known Sites:
Status:
Project Site:
Global Rank 02? State Rank S2.1
Coastal San Diego County; Baja California, Mexico
San Diego Sagewort is primarily found along creeks and drainages near the coast;
inland it may occur in mesic chaparral conditions. In its more usual riparian context,
San Diego Sagewort grows within a shaded understory beneath willow, sycamore, or
cottonwood. Occasionally it also is seen beneath Quercus agrifolia, but in decidedly
mesic circumstances.
San Diego Sagewort is most often seen within perennial drainages. Pefiasquitos Creek
is typical of such habitat and supports extensive population from Poway to Interstate 5.
A significant population is found scattered along Escondido Creek and its tributaries
from Olivenhain northeastward to the Questhaven Retreat. It is occasional beneath
oaks in the drainages north of Mt. Israel Road and on the north-facing slopes of Rose
Canyon. The southeastern-most reported location is in a creek just east of Glen Lonely
near 2000 feet in elevation. San Diego Sagewort is occasional within the Tijuana River
Valley, scattered on the shores of San Vicente Reservoir, and in shaded chaparral
southwest of the Barona Indian casino.
San Diego Sagewort is declining in the U.S. and being impacted by numerous local
projects that channelize or disrupt minor drainages, or via massive flood control efforts.
However, it is much more common than reported in the 1994 CNPS Inventory of Rare
and Endangered Vascular Plants of California, and was recently de-listed by CNPS.
Two patches of San Diego Sagewort are found at the eastern side of the study area.
Approximately 30 individuals occur on-site.
Thread-leaf Brodiaea [Brodiaea filifolia Wats.]
Listing:
Distribution:
CNPS List IB
State/Fed. Status --CE/Former CI
Global Rank 02 State Rank S2.1
R-E-D Code 3-3-3
AMAR YLLIDACEAE Mar.-Jun.
San Diego County, Orange County, Los Angeles County, and Riverside County
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Habitat: Vernally moist grasslands and the periphery of vernal pools are typical locales where
this species has been found. Associates: Sisyrinchium bellum, Nasse/la pulchra, •
Microseris species.
Known Sites: A very large population is still extant in the fields near Linda Vista Drive and Las Posas
Road in San Marcos. It is very rare on a hillside near Guajome Regional Park. A small
colony is still extant on a grassy knoll north of Palomar Airport Road and west of El
Camino Real. Data Base reports include a number of small populations in San Marcos
and Carlsbad (general areas of Palomar Airport and the Carlsbad Raceway). A sizeable
population is still extant at the Nature Conservancy's Santa Rosa Plateau Preserve and
many additional sites in western Riverside County. In Orange County a population
occurs on the west flanks of Bell Canyon in the foothills of the Santa Ana Mountains;
another report is from near El Toro Road.
Status: Thread-leaf Brodiaea is still substantially declining throughout its southern California
range. This species is systematically being eliminated by numerous, unrelated
construction projects around the Palomar Airport and San Marcos areas. Populations
near the City of Hemet may be similarly imperiled. This brodiaea grows in open
grasslands and sage scrub from a corm, and is difficult to census except during its short
flowering season: typically around May. As a result, surveys out of season may not
discover its presence. All populations should be fully protected.
Project Site: Twenty individuals were observed during a prior survey of the southern sewer
alignment (M&A 1997).
Prostrate Spineflower [Chorizanthe procumbens Nutt.]
Listing: CNPS -Recently de-listed
State/Fed. Status --None
Global Rank G3? State Rank S3.1?
R-E-D Code: formerly 1-2-2
POL YGONACEAE Apr.-Jun.
.Distribution: San Diego County, Riverside County, Orange County, Los Angeles County, San
Bernardino County, Ventura County; Baja California, Mexico
Habitat: Sandy openings in Chamise Chaparral are typical habitat for the Prostrate Spineflower;
however, it may also occur in sage scrub. It regularly occupies recently disturbed
microhabitats such as the shoulders of dirt roads or areas of lightly brushed chaparral.
Known Sites: The Prostrate Spineflower grows in chaparral openings at Poway near the proposed
Midland Road extension. It is locally common at Rancho Cuca, Alpine, Fallbrook, and
near Pala. Other small populations reported include in Parno Valley near Orosco
Ridge, Whale Peak near Ballena, within La Zanja Canyon, Bonsall, and close to the
Miramar Landfill in open Chamise Chaparral This spineflower is found as far north as
a barren, rocky butte near Winchester in western Riverside County, but is apparently
quite uncommon in this region.
Status: Prostrate Spineflower is stable and apparently wide ranging in the undeveloped parts
of the County. Substantial potential habitat occurs in little explored chaparral in the
San Pasqual region.
Project Site: This small but widely distributed plant was recently de-listed by CNPS, and is therefore
no longer considered to be sensitive.
Summer-Holly (Comarostaphylis diversifolia (Parry) Greene ssp. diversifolia]
Listing: CNPS List 1 B
State/Fed. Status --/Former C2
Global Rank G3T2 State S2.2
R-E-D Code 2-2-2
ERICACEAE Apr.-Jun.
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Distribution:
Habitat:
Known Sites:
Status:
Project Site:
San Diego County, Riverside County, and Orange County; Baja California, Mexico
Mesic north-facing slopes in Southern Mixed Chaparral is the preferred habitat of this
large, showy shrub. Rugged steep drainages seem to be a preferred location for isolated
shrubs. Most of the population of Summer-Holly occurs west oflnterstate 15. In the
larger populations, the surrounding mature chaparral is typically tall, dense, and
luxuriant. Associates: Ceanothus verrucosus, Xylococcus bicolor, Heteromeles
arbutifolia.
A large population with hundreds of mature shrubs was found south of Encinitas Road
and just northwest ofMontura Road in San Marcos; most of the population was lost to
residential grading. At least 1000 shrubs grow on the north slopes of Double Peak in
San Marcos. A scattered, healthy population of shrubs occurs on the north-facing slope
of Mount Whitney. A few were seen near Seal Rock in the Merriam ,Mountains and
others occur nearby west of Interstate 15 flanking Lawrence Welk Estates. Limited
populations are found in La Zanja Canyon, in Rancho Penasquitos, Mount Soledad, San
Dieguito County Park, north of Faraday A venue at the entrance to the proposed
Carlsbad Golf Course, Del Mar Heights, and Mission Trails Regional Park. The shrub
is scattered lightly at several sites in the San Marcos Mountains, and in Rancho Santa
Fe on eroded east-facing slopes.
Summer-Holly is declining throughout its U.S. range. A few large populations occur
within or near the City of San Marcos where they are imperiled by residential
development and warrant dedicated biological open space protection. Elsewhere the
species is slowly but steadily declining.
Summer-Holly is distributed along or near drainages and on north-facing slopes within
the Southern maritime chaparral/Nuttall's scrub oak phase vegetation. An estimated
I 00 individuals occur in the study area .
Small-flowered Morning Glory [Convolvulus simulans Perry]
Listing: CNPS List 4 R-E-D Code 1-2-2
State/Fed. Status --None CONVOL VULACEAE Mar.-Jun.
Global Rank G2G3 State Rank S2S3
Distribution: San Diego County, Orange County, Riverside County, Los Angeles County, Santa Cruz
Island, Kern County, Contra Costa County, Santa Barbara County, San Clemente
Island, Santa Catalina Island, San Benito County, San Joaquin County, San Luis Obispo
County, Stanislaus County; Baja California, Mexico
Habitat: This small annual grows on friable clay soils which are typically devoid of shrubs, in
openings in chaparral, sage scrub, and grasslands. It is also reported from ultra-mafic
ridgelines. Associates: Acanthomintha ilicifolia, Microseris species, Plantago
rhodosperma.
Known Sites: This morning glory is found in San Diego County on a small mesa on the north slopes
of Otay Valley east of Rock Mountain. It also occurs north of Palomar Airport Road
east of the Carlsbad Raceway. Herbarium specimens document populations from the
Sweetwater Valley, Vista, Otay Ranch, and Casa de Oro near Spring Valley. Historical
reports also identify populations from Rancho Santa Fe, Lemon Grove, and La Costa.
Status: Small-flowered Morning Glory is declining in southern California due to loss of
habitat. The distinctive friable and very crumbly clay soils where this species is usually
found are now quite rare in southern California. Such areas are generally very small,
often less than 1000 square feet in size, and have sometimes been graded. All
substantial populations in the southern portion of the State should be protected.
Project Site: Approximately 200 individuals were observed with the most northern population of
Acanthomintha, approximately 1400 feet east of the termination of Faraday Avenue.
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Western Dichondra (Dichondra occidentalis)
Listing: CNPS List 4
State/Fed. Status --none
Global Rank G4 State Rank S3.2
MSCP-none
December 1, 2000
R-E-D Code 1-2-1
CONVOL VULACEAE Mar.-May
Distribution: Santa Barbara County, Ventura County, Los Angeles County, Orange County, San
Diego County, Santa Catalina Island, Santa Cruz Island, San Miguel Island, Santa
Rosa Island; Marin County (questionable); Baja California, Mexico.
Habitat: Southern Mixed Chaparral, Chamise Chaparral, Coastal Sage Scrub, rocky outcrops
in grasslands, and especially recently exposed areas of post-burn habitat may all be
occupied by this small, cryptic perennial herb. It often grows ne,arly hidden at the
base of leafy shrubs. Soil tolerances for Dichondra appear variable. Associates:
Ceanothus verrucosus, Cneoridium dumosum, Arctostaphy/os glandulosa ssp.
crassifolia.
Known Sites: Most historical sites are clustered near the immediate coast. Western Dichondra is
occasionally common following burns in coastal San Diego County, and is
potentially present at many coastal San Diego County sites in chaparral or Coastal
Sage Scrub vegetation. Along the coast, this species has been documented from the
Tijuana Hills, Soledad Mountain, the Del Mar region, Encinitas, Solana Beach,
Carlsbad, and Oceanside. It is a dominant understory element at the Torrey Pines
State Reserve, and widely dispersed in chaparral habitat on Camp Pendleton with
sightings extending throughout the San Onofre Mountains. Inland localities include
the Jamul Mountains, Otay Mountain, near Lower Otay Lake, Rancho Santa Fe, and
•
the southern flanks of Penasquitos Canyon. •
Status: Western Dichondra is slowly declining in coastal southern California and is a
borderline species for inclusion on the CNPS list. Sites with very high densities are
noteworthy; in such circumstances substantial portions of these populations should
be protected.
Project Site: Western Dichondra is found in the southern portions of the property, with several
hundred individuals noted as a localized understory element beneath Chamise
Chaparral.
Southwestern Spiny Rush [Juncus acutus L. ssp. leopoldii (Parl.) Snog.]
Listing: CNPS List 4
State/Fed. Status --None
Global Rank G5T5 State Rank S3?
R-E-D Code 1-2-1
JUNCACEAE May-Jun.
Distribution: San Diego County, Los Angeles County, Santa Barbara County, Ventura County,
Orange County, and San Luis Obispo County; Baja California, Mexico
Habitat: Coastal Salt Marsh at brackish locales, Alkaline Meadows, and riparian marshes are
all utilized by this rush. At mid-elevations this species may occur in limited
numbers along drainages with willow riparian vegetation or sycamore woodland.
It usually drops out of the flora at moderate elevations.
Known Sites: This distinctive large bushy rush is common in marshes throughout coastal San
Diego County. It is abundant in the San Diego River flood control channel west of
Interstate 5, and common in the Sweetwater River, Otay River (including Salt
Creek), San Diego River through Mission Gorge, and the San Dieguito River.-This
rush is frequently found on the eastern periphery of the coastal lagoons such as Agua
Hedionda, San Dieguito, and San Elijo.
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Status: Southwestern Spiny Rush populations in San Diego County are now stable despite
several decades of losses associated with widespread regional reductions in
wetlands. This species can be readily grown in suitable habitat.
Project Site: This conspicuous shrub occurs in the on-site drainages, with perhaps a few hundred
individuals occurring in the study area.
San Diego Goldenstar (Muilla clevelandii}
Listing: List IB R-E-D Code 2-3-2
ALLIACEAE Apr.-May
Distribution:
Habitat:
Known Sites:
Status:
Project Site:
State/Fed. Status --none/Species of Concern
Global Rank G2 State Rank S2.1
MSCP -Covered Species
San Diego County; Baja California, Mexico
Native Grasslands, particularly near Mirna Mound topography or the vicinity of
vernal pools, is the preferred habitat of this perennial corm. This 'plant does not
typically grow in the shade of woody perennials, but rather in somewhat open
conditions. Redding Cobbly loams are mapped for locations near Miramar, while
Stockpen gravelly clay loam is found with the populations on northeastern Otay
Mesa. Given the lack of shrubs associated with Muilla, clay soils with good
shrink/swell potential are obviously preferred. Associates: Nassella pulchra,
Sisyrinchium helium, Bloomeria crocea, Dudleya variegata.
San Diego Goldenstar occurs mostly along the coast from Otay Mesa to San Marcos.
Significant populations occur at Otay Mesa, San Miguel Mountain, MCAS Miramar,
Mission Trails Regional park, and in the vicinity of the Sycamore Landfill property .
Major populations covering many acres were reported from Proctor Valley, as well
as by Escondido Creek near Via de las Flores.
San Diego Goldenstar is severely declining with the urban expansion of the City of
San Diego and outlying cities and communities. This species is likely to be heavily
impacted in the next decade by continued urban expansion, such as by the proposed
Otay Ranch and Rolling Hills Ranch developments in Chula Vista, and expected
severe potential secondary impacts from an influx of humans into this still lightly
utilized area. Currently this species is not being adequately protected, and a number
of development sites with good potential for occurrence are not being adequately
censussed in the spring; it is difficult to identify except when in flower during this
period. During years of poor rainfall, as with the late l 980s, this corm may not
flower, or deceptively bloom in only limited numbers. Populations have
undoubtedly declined substantially within the last two decades, along with the loss
of peripheral vernal pool habitat. All substantial populations should be protected;
significant portions of smaller populations should also be protected (Reiser 1996).
One individual was reported from the southern portion of the study area. Suitable
habitat and clay soils suggest that this species is more abundant than was indicated
by the single sighting.
Coast Scrub Oak [Quercus dumosa Nutt. in part]
Listing:
Distribution:
Habitat:
CNPS List lB R-E-D Code 2-3-2
State/Fed. Status --/Species of Concern FAGACEAE Feb.-Mar.
Global Rank G2 State Rank SI. I
San Diego County, Orange County, Santa Barbara County; Baja California, Mexico
Coastal chaparral with a relatively open canopy cover is the preferred habitat in flat
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Merkel & Associates, Inc. # 97-104-06 December 1, 2000
terrain; on north-facing slopes this shrub may grow in dense stands. Chesterton fine
sandy loams are mapped for the Miramar Naval Airbase population. It often has a •
rounded, almost "pruned" aspect which is quite different than the more erect
growing Quercus berberidifolia. In addition, the leaves tend to be smaller, more
spinose, and quite undulate. Associates: Ceanothus verrucosus, Xylococcus
bicolor, Arctostaphylos glandulosa ssp. crassifolia.
Known Sites: Coast Scrub Oak occurs at a variety oflocales such as Point Loma and Torrey Pines
State Park along the immediate coast. Occasionally it occurs inland such as on the
Miramar Naval Airbase where it grows in considerable numbers,· in the hills at
Camp Elliott, and on the northwestern slopes ofOtay Mesa. Numerous populations
are now isolated in the urban canyons of San Diego City neighborhoods north of
Mission Valley such as Linda Vista and Clairemont. This oak is locally common
near Del Mar, on the northern flanks of Soledad Mountain in La Jolla, and on north-
facing slopes in Rancho Santa Fe. The largest population is within the Penasquitos
Canyon Preserve where it is often a dominant shrub and occurs by the tens of
thousands. Shrubs in the canyon south of Paseo de! Lago in Carlsbad show some
hybrid traits, while plants just west of 1-5 in San Elijo County Park clearly show
intermediate traits with Q. berberidifolia.
Status: Coast Scrub Oak is substantially declining in San Diego County due to urban
expansion along the coast. Taxonomic work is necessary to determine the frequency
of intergradation between this species and the common Quercus berberidifolia.
Obvious hybrids between the Coast Scrub Oak and Quercus engelmannii are found
at a number of locations in coastal San Diego County. Sizeable portions of larger
populations are recommended for protection.
Project Site: Assessing the extent of the on-site population of this species is especially difficult •
because it is the dominant and defining shrub for the on-site Southern maritime
chaparral/Nuttall's scrub oak phase vegetation. As many as 37,000, individuals are
estimated to occur in the study area.
Sensitive Plant Species Potentially Occurring On-Site
A number of additional sensitive plants are known from the region. Small-flowered Microseris
(Microseris douglasii var. platycarpha) and Palmer's Grapplinghook (Harpagonella palmeri) all grow
on cracked clay soils such as those present in the study area. The first of these species flowers very
poorly during years of low rainfall and is potentially present on site; presence would be significant.
Blochman's Dudleya (Dudleya blochmaniae ssp. blochmaniae) is found at the northwest corner of the
Palomar Airport property, but most populations occur in proximity to the immediate coast and this
species is not expected to occur on-site.
Not seen were conspicuous shrubs such as Coast White Lilac (Ceanothus verrucosus) and San Diego
Marsh Elder (Iva hayesiana), as well as vernal pool endemics.
Sensitive Wildlife Species Identified On-Site
San Diego Horned Lizard (Phrynosoma coronatum blainvillii)
Listing: USFWS -Species of Concern
CDFG -Species of Special Concern, Protected
Carlsbad HMP -Not presently covered, but may be added under the MHCP
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Distribution: The San Diego Horned Lizard ranges from southern Kern County, southern Ventura
County and the Los Angeles basin southward through Orange, San Bernardino,
Riverside, and San Diego counties into northern Baja California, Mexico.
Habitat: Chaparral, sage scrub, montane forest, oak woodlands, and grasslands are all utilized
by this lizard. Generally it is found in relatively level or gently sloping terrain. It
sometimes occurs along seldom used dirt roads where native species of harvester
ants, its typical prey item, are particularly prevalent.
Status: Horned lizards in coastal San Diego County are declining, primarily due to habitat
destruction and habitat degradation. Also, the expansion of non-native ant species,
at the expense of native ant species, may be another factor in the local decline of
Horned Lizards.
Study Area: On-site chaparral and sage scrub are well suited to horned lizards,' and this species'
principal prey item (harvester ants) is common on the property. Despite the site's
apparent relatively high use by mountain bikers and hikers, several sightings were
made of horned lizards on the dirt roads and trails, generally in the more northern
portions of the study area.
Orangethroat Whiptail (Cnemidophorus hyperythrus)
Listing: USFWS -Species of Concern
CDFG -Species of Special Concern, Protected
Carlsbad HMP -Covered Species
Distribution: Limited in its California distribution, this lizard ranges northward to Corona Del Mar
in Orange County and Colton in San Bernardino County, then southward to western
Riverside County, San Diego County, and to Loreto in southern Baja California,
Mexico.
Habitat: Areas of sage scrub, open chaparral, and peripheral edges of riparian zones and
washes are all utilized by this lizard.
Status: This species is still relatively common in areas where good habitat occurs; however,
vast areas of former habitat in the coastal lowlands have been converted to urban and
agricultural development.
Project Site: Observations suggest that the Orangethroat Whiptail is present in moderate numbers
in the study area. Sightings were predominantly made in sage scrub and chaparral
vegetation, but this species is also expected in other shrub land and woodland habitats.
Coast Patchnose Snake (Salvadora hexalepis virgultea)
Listing: USFWS -Species of Concern
CDFG -Species of Special Concern
Carlsbad HMP -none
Distribution: The Coach Patchnose Snake ranges from the Santa Barbara area south to near the San
Quentin region in Baja California, Mexico. It is found from the western desert edge
to the coast.
Habitat: This diurnal to crepuscular snake is found in sage scrub and chaparral from the coast
up to approximately 6000 feet in elevation. Lizards, especially whiptails
(Cnemidophorus sp.) are a favored prey item.
Status: As it is uncommonly encountered, the abundance is not well known for this species.
Reportedly this snake is most active late in the afternoon and early evening when few
surveys are in progress.
Study Area: The Patchnose Snake was observed in the study area in 1997 (M&A 1997). Due to
Faraday Avenue Extension, Agua Hedionda Sewer, and Carlsbad Oaks North Business Park 33
Merkel & Associates, Inc. # 97-104-06 December 1, 2000
high levels of human use and adjacent habitat loss, only a small population of
Patchnose Snake is expected on-site. •
Northern Red Diamond Rattlesnake (Crotalus ruber ruber)
Listing: USFWS -Special Concern Species
CDFG -Species of Special Concern
Carlsbad HMP -none
Distribution: Within its limited United States range, this species is confined primarily to areas from
the Peninsular Ranges westward to the coast. Northern Red Diamond Rattlesnakes
are found from extreme southern Los Angeles County and near Pioneertown in
Morongo Valley, southward into Baja California, Mexico.
Habitat: This snake typically occupies rocky outcrops and areas of heavy brush or rugged
terrain in chaparral, sage scrub or desert scrub on both coastal and desert slopes,
usually below 4000 feet.
Status: The Northern Red Diamond Rattlesnake is still fairly common where extensive areas
of habitat remain. This species is considered sensitive due to its limited U.S. range.
Project Site: The Northern Red Diamond Rattlesnake was observed during previous on-site
investigations by Dudek (1997). The chaparral and sage scrub vegetation,
particularly in the more northern portions of the site where there is more substantial
composition of rock outcrop.
Northern Harrier (Circus cyaneus)
Listing: USFWS -none
CDFG -Species of Special Concern
Carlsbad HMP -Not presently covered, but may be added under the MHCP
Distribution: Northern Harriers are widespread across North America, but are a very localized
breeder.
Habitat: Preferred habitats are generally low-growing vegetation types such as marshes,
grasslands, and agricultural fields.
Status: The Northern Harrier is still a relatively common wintering species in southern
California, but breeding has greatly declined in southern California due to loss of
suitable breeding habitat.
Study Area: A pair of Northern Harriers successfully nested and fledged two young on-site in
2000. This confirmed breeding is the only recent known location within the City of
Carlsbad; no breeding locations were known during the preparation of the Carlsbad
HMP (Wayne Spencer, Conservation Biology Institute, personal communication).
Although the most characteristic harrier foraging habitat on-site consists of grassland
and marshes, predominantly occurring in the southern half of the study area, the
adults were seen flying over much of the eastern half of the property over the course
of the spring and summer site visits.
Cooper's Hawk (Accipiter cooperii)
Listing:
Distribution:
USFWS-none
CDFG -Species of Special Concern
Carlsbad· HMP -Covered Species
Cooper's Hawks are found throughout the United States.
Habitat: Cooper's Hawks are primarily found in native riparian, oak, or coniferous woodlands,
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and less commonly in eucalyptus. In the non-breeding season, Cooper's Hawks may
be found in a variety of lower quality woodland, scrub land, and grassland habitats.
Status: This hawk has declined throughout California as a breeding species (Remsen 1978).
Project Site: Cooper's Hawks were frequently observed in or near the oak/riparian woodland just
downstream of the confluence of Agua Hedionda Creek and the unnamed drainage,
in the northwestern portion of the study area. This species is believed to have nested
in this general area, but a specific nest site was not identified. Cooper's Hawks were
also observed in this general vicinity during prior biological surveys (KEA 1998;
Dudek 1999b ), and in the regional data base also reports Cooper's Hawk in this area.
In 2000, Cooper's Hawks were also seen flying over other portions of the study area,
but less consistently, and only a single pair is believed to be resident to the property.
Sharp-shinned Hawk (Accipiter striatus)
Listing: USFWS -none
CDFG -Species of Special Concern
Carlsbad HMP -none
,
Distribution: Fairly common winter resident in southern California; possibly breeds in northern
California.
Habitat: The Sharp-shinned Hawk is ·primarily associated with mixed woodlands, but during
its winter period in southern California it may be found foraging in most habitat
types.
Status: This species formerly nested in southern California mountain ranges. It may still nest
in the San Jacinto Mountains, although summer sightings are rare, and its breeding
status is uncertain .
Project Site: Sharp-shinned Hawks were observed during prior surveys by Dudek (1999b ), and are
expected to be an uncommon but regular winter visitor to the study area.
White-tailed Kite (Elanus leucurus)
Listing: USFWS -none
CDFG -Protected (also formerly a Special Animal)
Carlsbad HMP -none
Distribution: Central Valley and coastal California; extensions north into Oregon and south into
northern Baja California, Mexico.
Habitat: White-tailed Kites occur in grasslands, agricultural fields, and shrublands of
California's coastal valleys and plains. Marshes and grassy bottomlands where large
clumps of trees are adjacent to foraging habitat are favored sites for winter roosts.
Status: The centers of abundance for these raptors in southern California are the coastal
valleys and plains of San Diego,·Orange, and western Riverside counties, which are
the areas which are currently undergoing large-scale and rapid habitat conversion due
to residential development. While historic population fluctuations have made their
present status difficult to determine, the numbers of breeding individuals are thought
to be declining locally in some areas, and wintering populations may be diminishing
as well due to loss of winter foraging habitat and roost sites.
Project Site: White-tailed Kites were observed on nearly every site visit, and in 2000 were
observed nesting in oak woodland in the southeast portion of the study area. They
were previously identified in oak woodland near the southwest corner of the study
area ( downslope and east of the current termination of Faraday A venue). Though
only one pair was found to be resident during 2000, there is potential for the site to
support a second pair. The site may also receive additional use by kites in the
fall/winter season.
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American Peregrine Falcon (Falco perewinus anatum)
Listing: USFWS -none (formerly endangered but recently de-listed) •
CDFG -Fully Protected (formerly endangered but de-listed in 1999)
Carlsbad HMP -Covered Species
Distribution: Peregrine Falcons occur aiong the Pacific and Atlantic coasts, and have an irregular
distribution from.Arizona/New Mexico northward to southern Montana.
Habitat: Peregrine Falcons can be found foraging over estuaries, coastlines, mountains, open
fields, and coastal scrub in California. This species is generally regarded as a bird of
open wetlands, often near cliffs or other prominent perches. Generally a fall and
winter visitor ( early September through April) to San Diego, a small population is
now resident in the region and breeding in low numbers. Up tot.en pairs formerly
nested in San Diego County; documented sites were at San Onofre, Pala, Escondido,
San Pasqual, La Jolla, and Point Loma (Unitt 1984). Currently, this species is most
frequently seen near the coast such as about Mission Bay and San Diego Bay, where
nesting pairs have established (e.g., Coronado Bridge).
Status: A small local population has stabilized and may be slowly increasing. This falcon
had severely declined as a breeding species in California due largely to the use of
DDT and possibly other pesticides .. Peregrine Falcons were recently de-listed from
Endangered Species status due to population stability and increases, but this remains
a rare species in southern California.
Project Site: A Peregrine Falcon was observed over the study area in October 2000. Occasional
site use is expected, but it is unlikely that the site receives intensive foraging use by
this falcon. This is a rare but regular winter visitor to the region, with most
observations made near the coastal lagoons and bays which attract concentrated •
shorebird/waterbird activity. The closest known nesting Peregrine Falcons occur in
the vicinity of San Diego Bay.
California Horned Lark (Eremophila alpestris actia)
Listing: USFWS -none
CDFG -Species of Special Concern
Carlsbad HMP -none
Distribution: Several subspecies of Horned Larks occur throughout North America. Although
several other subspecies are reported to occur and may breed in San Diego County,
E.a. actia is reported to be the most common on the coastal slope.
Habitat: Sandy shores, bare ground, grassland, open agricultural land, and open scrubland.
Status: The Horned Lark is a common breeding resident, abundant migrant, and winter
visitor in southern California.
Project Site: Horned Larks were observed on the dirt roads and open agricultural fields at the
northwest corner of the study area. There is only limited potential for nesting in this
area due to ongoing agricultural activities.
Coastal California Gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica californica)
Listing: USFWS -Threatened (Date listed: March 25, 1993)
CDFG -Species of Special Concern
Carlsbad HMP -Covered Species _
Distribution: Currently occurs in San Diego, Riverside, and Orange counties south to Baja •
California, Mexico. It has largely been extirpated from Ventura, Los Angeles, and
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San Bernardino counties .
Habitat: Primary habitat of the California Gnatcatcher is Coastal Sage Scrub, but Maritime
Succulent Scrub and open chaparral are also used.
Status: California Gnatcatchers have seriously declined due to loss of habitat. Between 85%
and 90% of this species' habitat has been lost to urban or agricultural development.
Within the United States, San Diego County is to be the center of abundance for this
species.
Project Site: Four California Gnatcatcher territories were identified in the study area (refer Figure
2 or map pocket). Two territories were recorded by KEA in more western portions
of the study area, but no California Gnatcatchers were observed in these areas during
the 2000 season. Habitat in these areas is at least marginally suited to gnatcatchers,
and there is good potential for them to become occupied at some point in the future.
Yellow Warbler (Dendroica petechia brewsteri)
Listing: USFWS -none
CDFG -Species of Special Concern
Carlsbad HMP -none
Distribution: The Yellow Warbler is occasional in the summer throughout the western United
States (except in desert areas, where sometimes a migrant), and is also in the north-
central and northeastern U.S. and Canada. This was formerly a widespread breeder
in riparian habitats throughout California. The population declines over the past few
decades is believed to be caused by habitat loss and possibly brood parasitism by
Brown-headed Cowbirds .
Habitat: Although this species can be found in a variety of riparian woodland/scrubland
habitats during migration, breeding populations are usually associated with mature
riparian woodlands.
Status: Yell ow Warblers have severely declined due to both destruction of riparian woodland
and a population explosion among Brown-headed Cowbirds. This warbler has been
identified as one of the three species most frequently parasitized by cowbirds (Ehrlich
et. al. 1988). In the past few years, this numbers of this species appear to be
increasing. It could be that this species is benefitting from efforts to control Brown-
headed Cowbirds.
Study Area: Five Yellow Warblers were identified (by sight and/or song) in riparian woodlands
of Agua Hedionda Creek. This species is presumed to be breeding on-site.
Yellow-breasted Chat Ucteria virens auricollis)
Listing: USFWS -none
CDFG -Species of Special Concern
Carlsbad HMP -Covered Species
Distribution: Chats are found throughout much of the United States in the summer, but avoid the
more arid deserts. This species winters southward to Panama.
Habitat: Yell ow-breasted Chats nest in riparian woodland and scrub, generally with a dense
undergrowth component. They also may be found on the periphery of swamps and
freshwater marshlands.
Status: Once fairly common in riparian habitats throughout California, chat populations have
greatly declined in southern California due to h_abitat destruction and cowbird
parasitism. In recent years, this species also appears to have significantly benefitted
from the cowbird trapping programs targeting Least Bell's Vireo breeding areas.
Faraday Avenue Extension, Agua Hedionda Sewer, and Carlsbad Oaks North Business Park 37
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Study Area: During 2000, two Yellow-breasted Chat territories were identified on the creek in the
southern portion of the study area. •
Southern California Rufous-crowned Sparrow (Aimophila ruficeps canescens)
Listing: USFWS -Species of Concern
CDFG -Species of Special Concern
Carlsbad HMP -Covered Species
Distribution: This subspecies of Rufous-crowned Sparrow occupies a relatively narrow range of
coastal southern California from Santa Barbara County south into Baja California.
Habitat: Typical habitat of the Rufous-crowned Sparrow is sparse, low scrub or chaparral,
sometimes mixed with grasses and/or rocky slopes.
Status: This species is usually present where good quality sage scrub and/or' open chaparral
vegetation is present. It is considered an uncommon to fairly common but localized
resident in San Diego County (Unitt 1984).
Study Area: Rufous-crowned Sparrows are relatively common in both sage scrub and chaparral
habitats on-site.
San Diego Black-tailed Jackrabbit (Lepus californicus bennettii)
Listing: USFWS -Species of Concern
CDFG -Species of Special Concern
Carlsbad HMP -Not presently covered, but may be added under the MHCP
Distribution: This subspecies of jackrabbit occurs from Point Conception-Mount Pifios
east/southeast to Pasadena, western Anza-Borrego Desert, Jacumba south to San
Quintin Baja California, Mexico. •
Habitat: The San Diego Black-tailed Jackrabbit is generally found in open or semi-open
vegetation, including grasslands and open sage scrub.
• Status: This jackrabbit is believed to be declining. In coastal San Diego County it is
primarily found only in relatively large habitat blocks.
Project Site: Droppings of jackrabbits were observed in the more southern portion of the property.
The grasslands and areas of open sage scrub offer suitable habitat; however, much of
the property is covered by vegetation more dense than that typically occupied by this
species. Only a small population is expected on-site.
San Diego Desert Woodrat (Neotoma lepida intermedia)
Listing: USFWS -Species of Concern
Distribution:
Habitat:
Status:
Study Area:
CDFG -Species of Special Concern
Carlsbad HMP -none
This subspecies of Desert Woodrat ranges from San Luis Obispo south to San
Bernardino Mountains, Redlands, continues south through Julian and Dulzura, and
on into Baja California, Mexico to the Sierra San Pedro Matir. A disjunct population
also is reported from the Porterville area in Tulare County.
Various native vegetation types are inhabited by the San Diego Desert Woodrat,
including sage scrub, chaparral, and oak woodland. This species is often associated
with rock outcrop and cactus patches.
Unknown, but believed to be declining due to loss of habitat.
Stick nests and droppings of woo drats were observed throughout the property. Where
such sign was noted in areas of sage scrub and rock outcrop, it is likely indicative of
the San Diego Desert Woodrat. Larger stick nests located in oak woodlands and
Faraday Avenue Extension, Agua Hedionda Sewer, and Carlsbad Oaks North Business Park 38
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more mesic environments is more likely due to the similar, but non-sensitive, Dusky-
footed W oodrat.
Sensitive Wildlife Species Potentially Occurring On-Site
Harbison's Dun Skipper (Euphyes vestris harbisoni)
Listing: USFWS -none
Distribution:
Habitat:
Status:
Project Site:
CDFG -none, formerly Special Animal
Carlsbad HMP -none
Occurs in scattered, isolated colonies in San Diego and Orange counties.
Oak riparian. Usually found in moist areas on San Diego Sedge (Clfrex spissa).
Declining. Has a narrow, restricted range within cismontane habitat from Santa Ana
Mountains to Tecate Peak. Habitat has experienced declines in recent years due to
human encroachment and remaining colonies now consist of small isolated
populations.
This species has moderate potential to occur on-site. Host plant is common in the
oak riparian understory.
Ouino Checkerspot Butterfly (Euphydryas editha quino)
Listing: USFWS -Endangered (Date Listed: January 16, 1997)
CDFG-none
Carlsbad HMP -none
Distribution: Principally found among foothills and coastal mesas of western Riverside and San
Diego counties; south to northern Baja California, Mexico.
Habitat: Larva utilize native Plantago species, particularly Plantago erecta. Populations may
also feed on, and utilize as larval hosts, plants in the family Scrophulariaceae.
Status: This subspecies has severely declined from its historic numbers and distribution.
Native habitats have been eliminated by development and habitat modification (e.g.,
increase in non-native grasses) may have made otherwise available habitat unsuitable.
The elimination of small, isolated colonies due to these factors adversely affects the
entire subspecies through the loss of island patches between larger colonies which
serve in dispersal. This also limits the ability to re-establish open patches of nearby
habitat. Annual fluctuations in numbers make quantitative assessment difficult, but
the limited number of individuals observed over the last decade suggests the that
southern California subspecies may be near extinction.
Study Area: The study area is outside of the known distribution of Quino Checkerspot, such that
focused surveys were not required under the USFWS Year 2000 survey protocol
(USFWS 2000). This species is not expected to occur on-site. Primary larval host
plant, Dot-seed Plantain, is lightly distributed throughout much of the property, and
found in greatest concentrations in pockets of clay soils.
Hermes Copper (Lycaena hermes)
Listing:
Distribution:
USFWS -Species of Concern
CDFG-none
Carlsbad HMP -Covered Species
Western San Diego County to northwestern Baja California, Mexico.
Habitat: Colonies are strongly associated with the larval host plant Spiny Redberry (Rhamnus
Faraday Avenue Extension, Agua Hedionda Sewer, and Carlsbad Oaks North Business Park 39
Merkel & Associates, Inc. # 97-104-06 December 1, 2000
crocea). Adults feed on nectar from Flat-top Buckwheat and other species.
Status: Declining. Colonies appear to be stable, but the species now occupies only half of •
its former range. Fire and development in San Diego County threaten existing and
additional colonies. Due to its very limited United States range, this species is
believed to have good potential for future federal listing as threatened or endangered.
Project Site: The larval host plant, Spiny Redberry, was not documented on-site during the current
surveys or past site investigations by Dudek; but may occur in low numbers. Based
on the absence or dearth of the host plant, Hermes Copper is not expected on-site.
Western Spadefoot (Scaphiopus hammondii}
Listing: USFWS -Species of Concern
CDFG -Species of Special Concern
MSCP-none
Distribution: Mostly Central Valley, bordering foothills and Coast Ranges south of San Francisco
Bay into northwestern Baja California, Mexico.
Habitat: The Western Spadefoot is primarily found in the lowlands (below 3,000 feet),
frequenting washes, river floodplains, alluvial fans, playas, alkali flats, and ranges
into the foothills ;md mountains. It appears to prefer sandy or gravelly soil in
grasslands, sage scrub, open chaparral, and pine-oak woodlands. Breeding typically
occurs in seasonal water pools, including vernal pools and road ruts.
Status: Populations are believed to be declining and likely suffering from effects of
fragmentation.
Project Site: Moderate potential exists for the presence of the Western Spadefoot.
Arroyo Toad (Buro californicus)
Listing: USFWS -Endangered ( date listed: December 16, 1994)
CDFG -Species of Special Concern
Carlsbad HMP-Not presently covered, but may be added under the MHCP
Distribution: Coast Range from near Santa Margarita, San Luis Obispo County, south into
northwestern Baja California, Mexico; Transverse Mountains. Desert population
along Mojave River in San Bernardino County. •
Habitat: Found in washes, streams and arroyos in semi-arid lowlands. Prefers sandy banks
with willows, cottonwoods, or sycamores.
Status: Not well known; appears to be uncommon with a spotty distribution; much of its
former habitat, sandy river floodplains, has been disturbed. South of Ventura, only
a dozen or so extant populations have been recently documented. The expansion of
non-native, predatory Bullfrogs is a possible factor in the decline of Arroyo Toads.
Study Area: Arroyo Toads are not expected within the study area. The more southerly of the two
on-site drainages lacks sandy substrate and relatively open conditions favored by this
species, and the intermittent creek appears to be primarily supported by urban run-off.
Agua Hedionda Creek is not known to support this species and the on-site segment
is disturbed by illegal immigrant encampments and rural land uses. A dense canopy
of Coast Live Oak overlaps the lower riparian segment of the study area, and this
species typically prefers a relatively open canopy near its breeding habitat.
Faraday Avenue Extension, Agua Hedionda Sewer, and Carlsbad Oaks North Business Park 40
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Southwestern Pond Turtle (Clemmys marmorata pallida)
Listing: USFWS -Species of Concern
CDFG -Species of Special Concern
December 1, 2000
Carlsbad HMP -Not presently covered, but may be added under the MHCP
Distribution: This subspecies, C. m. pallida, occurs from the Monterey area south into Baja
California, Mexico.
Habitat: Highly aquatic, prefers ponds, creek pools, and marshes with rocky or muddy
bottoms.
Status: Declining. In southern California, i.e., Los Angeles County south, this turtle is
becoming quite rare due to the general destruction of lowland riparian areas and
human disturbance. The expansion of non-native, predatory fish ~nd Bullfrogs are
additional probable factors in the decline of Southwestern Pond Turtles.
Study Area: This species is given low potential for on-site presence. The riparian areas offer only
marginal habitat due to the lack of suitable plunge pools and basking sites.
Coronado Skink (Eumeces skiltonianus interparietalis)
Listing: USFWS -Species of Concern
CDFG -Species of Special Concern
Carlsbad HMP -none
Distribution: This subspecies of Western Skink has a very limited range within the United States.
It occurs in coastal San Diego and Orange counties and into the Los Angeles region,
as well as northwest Baja California, Mexico including the Coronado Islands.
Habitat: Coronado Skinks occupy many habitat types including grasslands, sage scrub,
chaparral, oak and pine woodlands; however, they are difficult to detect except
beneath debris or leaf litter following rain events.
Status: The Coronado Skink has a limited range and much of its coastal habitat has been
developed for urban uses. Nevertheless, it is still believed to be common where
suitable habitat persists.
Project Site: Coronado Skinks are expected to be present in low to moderate numbers on-site,
based on the availability of suitable habitat (sage scrub, chaparral, grassland,
woodlands).
Coastal (Western) Whiptail (Cnemidophorus tigris multiscutatus)
Listing: USFWS -Special Concern Species
CDFG-none
MSCP-none
Distribution: This subspecies is found from Santa Barbara County southward through the northern
two-thirds of Baja California, Mexico.
Habitat: Semi-open areas and sunny microhabitats in sage scrub, chaparral, open woodlands,
peripheral edges of riparian zones and washes, as well as desert and other arid
habitats are all utilized by this whiptail.
Status: This species is relatively common in areas where good habitat occurs; however, vast
areas of former habitat in the coastal lowlands have been converted to urban and
agricultural development.
Project Site: The Coastal Whiptail is not documented from the study area, and is generally more
common at more xeric, inland locations, often where there is a more sparse coverage
of shrubs. If present on-site, only a small population of Coastal Whiptails is
expected.
Faraday Avenue Extension, Agua Hedionda Sewer, and Carlsbad Oaks North Business Park 41
Merkel & Associates, Inc. # 97-104-06
Silvery Legless Lizard (Anniella pulchra)
Listing: USFWS -Species of Concern
CDFG -Species of Special Concern
Carlsbad HMP -none
December 1, 2000
Distribution: This legless lizard ranges along coastal California from San Francisco south to
northern Baja California.
Habitat: This nocturnal lizard is seldom seen on the surface. It shows a preference for areas
of leaf litter and loose soil along washes, beach sand dunes, open scrub and
woodland, and sandy benches along alluvial fans.
Status: The status of the Legless Lizard is poorly understood, but believed to be declining
due to habitat loss. ,
Study Area: Areas near and along drainages, offering loose soils and/or oak leaf litter, provide
good potential habitat for the Legless Lizard. It is given a good potential for
occurrence within the study area.
Two-striped Garter Snake (Thamnophis hammondii)
Listing: USFWS -none
CDFG -Species of Special Concern, Protected
MSCP-none
Distribution: This garter snake ranges north as far as the Carmel Valley, then into the South Coast
Ranges west of the San Joaquin Valley, further south to the Peninsular Range and the
southern California coast, and into Baja California, Mexico.
•
Habitat: Although aquatic habitats (creeks, rivers, freshwater marshes, and vernal pools) are •
the typical habitat, this species is occasionally found in peripheral upland habitats
such as chaparral, sage scrub, and woodlands.
Status: Once common in southern California; at present, this. garter snake is declining due
to wetland habitat disturbance. Predation of young snakes by· Bullfrogs and non-
native fish (e.g., Largemouth Bass) may also affect population levels.
Study Area: Two-striped Garter Snakes are given good overall potential to occur on-site; however,
only a small population is expected.
Ferruginous Hawk (Buteo regalis)
Listing:
Distribution:
Habitat:
Status:
Study Area:
USFWS -Species of Concern
CDFG -Species of Special Concern
MSCP -Covered Species
Western United States
The Ferruginous Hawk is associated with large expanses of grassland or agricultural
fields.
Declining. This species is an uncommon but regular winter visitor to mountain areas
and coastal fields.
The Ferruginous Hawk has low potential to occur as a migrant or winter visitor to the
site. This is an uncommon species in urbanizing coastal areas, and is usually found
in much more extensive tracts of grassland or open fields. •
Golden Eagle (Aguila chrysaetos)
Listing: USFWS -protected under the Bald Eagle Act ( 1940)
CDFG -Species of Special Concern, Fully Protected
Faraday Avenue Extension, Agua Hedionda Sewer, and Carlsbad Oaks North Business Park 42
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Merkel & Associates, Inc. # 97-104-06 December l, 2000
Distribution:
Habitat:
Status:
Study Area:
Carlsbad HMP -Not presently covered, but may be added under the MHCP
Golden Eagles range throughout the western United States and southern Canada.
Golden Eagles typically nest in tall, rugged, inaccessible cliff habitat and sometimes
. in tall trees. Foraging habitat consists of extensive tracts of undeveloped land in the
vicinity of nest sites.
Once a common breeding bird, the Golden Eagle population has greatly declined due
to loss of, and disturbance at, nest sites in southern California, particularly San Diego
County. Urban encroachment and loss of foraging habitat are additional probable
factors in the decline of this species.
Recon (1984) recorded an eagle observation the north-central portion of the study
area, which is probably the same site record as in the regional database for the
Carlsbad HMP. No eagle nesting habitat occurs on-site, and tne ·closest known
Golden Eagle breeding territory is near Lake Hodges/Mt. Israel, approximately eight
miles to the east. Golden Eagles are known to forage over very wide ranges, but it
is unlikely that a foraging territory would regularly extend this far westward due to
the intervening urban development. Much of this development has occurred in the
past IO years. The site is not expected to provide important habitat to Golden Eagles,
but there is low potential that the site would be used by a dispersing individual or
during migration.
Prairie Falcon (Falco mexicanus)
Listing: USFWS -none
CDFG -Species of Special Concern
MSCP-none
Distribution: The Prairie Falcon occurs throughout the western United States. It is an uncommon
winter visitor to southern California and a rare breeding resident in San Diego
County. It winters southward into northern Mexico. Approximately twenty nest sites
are known for this falcon in San Diego County, but this species sometimes has weak
nest tenacity. Most nests are concentrated in the desert, but a limited population
reportedly still breeds on the coastal slope (Unitt 1984).
Habitat: Prairie Falcons are typically seen in open, arid country such as grasslands, deserts,
and interior valleys supporting agricultural and fallow fields. During the winter it
may also be found foraging near mudflats and extensive fields near the coast.
Status: This species is extremely rare as a breeding species in southern California, but
collection records indicate this falcon was never common in the area, even prior to
widespread urban development. The coastal population is nearly extirpated.
Project Site: Prairie Falcons could occur on-site as migrants, but significant use of the property by
this species is not expected.
Southwestern Willow Flycatcher (Empidonax traillii extimus)
Listing:
Distribution:
Habitat:
Status:
Study Area:
USFWS -Endangered (Date listed: February 27, 1995)
CDFG-Endangered (Date listed: January 3, 1991)
Southwest United States and northwest Mexico.
Summer resident only. This subspecies typically breeds in willow riparian woodland,
but Coast Live Oak riparian woodland is used along the San Luis Rey River.
Seriously declining subspecies .
Tape recordings of the Southwestern Willow Flycatcher were played in suitable
habitat during the focused Least Bell's Vireo surveys. One individual responded to
Faraday Avenue Extension, Agua Hedionda Sewer, and Carlsbad Oaks North Business Park 43
Merkel & Associates, Inc. # 97-104-06 December 1, 2000
the tape on May 23, 2000; however, no individuals were detected during the
remainder of the season. The observed individual is therefore assumed to have been •
a migrant. Due to its migratory status, the observed Willow Flycatcher could belong
to another of the willow flycatcher subspecies which are known to migrate through
the region. That is, the observation cannot conclude that the observed bird was the
state and federally listed subspecies (E.t. extimus).
Loggerhead Shrike (Lanius ludovicianus)
Listing: USFWS -Species of Concern
CDFG -Species of Special Concern
Carlsbad HMP -none
Distribution: Occurs throughout the United States, south-central Canada and northern Mexico.
The northern populations are migratory.
Habitat: Typical habitat is open country with scattered trees or other perch sites.
Status: The Loggerhead Shrike is continuing to decline throughout its range (Graham 1990).
Resident populations are augmented by an influx of wintering individuals.
Project Site: The grassland areas and agricultural fields offer suitable foraging habitat, but this
species has not been reported on the property. It is given a high potential to occur on-
site at some point in the future.
Tricolored Blackbird (Agelaius tricolor)
Listing: USFWS -Species of Concern
CDFG -Species of Special Concern
Carlsbad HMP -Not presently covered, but may be added under the MHCP •
Distribution: The Tricolored Blackbird is endemic to California and a small area of extreme
southern Oregon.
Habitat: This species typically breeds in large colonies in extensive freshwater marshes.
During the non-breeding months it is somewhat nomadic and forages widely in
cultivated fields and variable open habitats.
Status: Tricolored Blackbirds are believed to be declining due to habitat loss, particularly in
the Central Valley. This species was proposed for State Endangered status but was
rejected.
Study Area: Moderate potential exists for the Tricolored Blackbird to breed in the cat-tail marsh
in the south/central part of the study area, or in the marsh surrounding the small pond.
Bell's Sage Sparrow (Amphispiza belli belli)
Listing: USFWS -former Species of Concern
CDFG -former Species of Special Concern
Carlsbad HMP -Not presently covered, but may be added under the MHCP
Distribution: Bell's Sage Sparrow has been treated as a distinct species (Amphispiza belli) from the
more widespread Sage Sparrow (Amphispiza nevadensis) (Rising 1996). It ranges
from Trinity County along the coastal slope southward to northwestern Baja
California, Mexico.
Habitat: Bell's Sage Sparrow is resident in both sage scrub and chaparral vegetation, but is
, generally found only in large habitat blocks.
Status: Bell's Sage Sparrow is believed to be declining due to habitat loss throughout its •
California range, particularly in coastal southern California. Preliminary findings
Faraday Avenue Extension, Agua Hedionda Sewer, and Carlsbad Oaks North Business Park 44
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Merkel & Associates, Inc. # 97-104-06 December I, 2000
from the San Diego Breeding Bird Atlas indicate that this species has not persisted
well in areas fragmented by development (Phil Unitt, personal communication).
Project Site: Bell's Sage Sparrow was not observed or heard calling on-site, and was not
documented during other investigations overlapping the study area. The sage scrub
and chamise-dominated areas on-site offer suitable habitat for this species. It is given
a low potential for occurrence.
Grasshopper Sparrow (Ammodramus savannarum)
Listing: USFWS -none
CDFG-none
Carlsbad HMP -none
Distribution:
Habitat:
Audubon Blue List (Tate 1986)
Local -Everett (1979)
North America, Central America, and parts of South America in grasslands.
This species uses both native and non-native grasslands with scattered shrubs.
Status: This is an uncommon breeding species in southern California with highly localized
population.
Project Site: Grasshopper Sparrows were not detected on the property. Low-to-moderate potential
exists for this species to occur on-site, with the more suitable habitat being the
grasslands at the southern end of the study area.
Pallid Bat (Antrozous pallidus)
Listing: USFWS -none
CDFG -Species of Special Concern
MSCP-none
Distribution: Found throughout California with the exception of the northwest portion of the state
and the higher elevation~ of the Sierra Nevada Mountains above 6000 feet.
Habitat: Occupies a variety of habitats. These relatively large bats typically feed on large
terrestrial arthropods. The coastal subspecies prefers grassland and oak woodlands
for foraging. Roosting may occur in crevices in trees, rocks, and buildings.
Status: Pallid Bats are believed to be declining, possibly due to disturbance/loss of roost sites
and/or the loss of foraging habitat.
Project Site: Suitable roosting habitat is quite limited on-site, but there is some potential for this
species to use the very mature oaks in the downstream portion of the study area. This
species has a moderate potential to forage on-site.
Pacific Pocket Mouse (Perognathus longimembris pacificus)
Listing: USFWS -Endangered
CDFG -Species of Special Concern
Distribution: Restricted to the coastal strip of southern California from the vicinity of the
U.S./Mexico border northward to El Segundo, Los Angeles County (Williams 1986).
Habitat: Areas of fine, sandy substrate.
Status: Declining. Presumably has suffered considerable amounts of habitat loss due to
urbanization of coastal areas. •
Project Site: Present and historically occupied habitat of the Pacific Pocket Mouse occur within
approximately 4-5 kilometers of the coast. The study area exceeds this distance, and
generally does not exhibit the characteristic habitat and sandy soils occupied by this
species. This species is not expected to occur on-site.
Faraday Avenue Extension, Agua Hedionda Sewer, and Carlsbad Oaks North Business Park 45
Merkel & Associates, Inc. # 97-104-06
Northwestern San Diego Pocket Mouse (Chaetodipus fa/lax fa/lax)
Listing: USFWS -Species of Concern
CDFG -Species of Special Concern
Carlsbad HMP -none
December 1, 2000
Distribution: This subspecies is reported to occur from San Onofre north to Claremont, northeast
to Banning, then south to Jacumba and on into Baja California to San Quintin,
Mexico.
Habitat: Habitats occupied by the San Diego Pocket Mouse include sage scrub, chaparral, and
oak woodland.
Status: Due to extensive urban and agricultural development, this species has presumably
suffered a considerable loss of occupied habitat. However, small ~ammal trapping
studies routinely capture this species within suitable habitat. •
Project Site: The San Diego Pocket Mouse is expected to be common in the sage scrub, oak
woodlands, and possibly chaparral habitat on-site.
Dulzura California Pocket Mouse (Chaetodipus californicus femoralis)
Listing: USFWS -Species of Concern
CDFG -Species of Special Concern
Carlsbad HMP-none
Distribution: Coastal southern California from the north of the Santa Margarita River, north to
Temecula, south to Aguanga, Dulzura, and on into Baja California, Mexico.
Habitat: This species is most commonly associated with chaparral and oak woodland habitats
•
Status: Due to extensive urban and agricultural development, this species has presumably •
suffered a considerable loss of occupied habitat. Small mammal trapping studies
routinely capture this species within suitable habitat.
Project Site: The California Pocket Mouse is given moderate potential to occur on-site, with most
likely areas of habitation being the chaparral habitats.
American Badger (Taxidea taxus)
Listing: USFWS -none
CDFG -Species Animal
Carlsbad HMP -none
Distribution: From Alberta and Saskatchewan, Canada, southward through central and western
United States and into Baja California and central Mexico. In California, Badgers
occur throughout the State except in the northwestern corner. Areas of greatest
abundance are in the northeastern region and along the south central coast area with
moderate populations occurring in the southeastern desert areas, eastern southern
Sierra Nevada, and southern San Joaquin Valley.
Habitat: Found in grasslands, open scrub, and mountain meadow habitats with friable soils.
Status: Current status unknown but the species has experienced drastic declines in California
within the last century. Agriculture and urban developments have been the primary
causes of decline and extirpation of populations in California.
Project Site: The better suited habitat (i.e., grassland) for Badgers primarily occurs in the more
southern portions of the study area. These areas are often more disturbed and receive
, highly levels of human use (biking, etc.). No evidence or recent historic sightings •
have been documented on the property. It is given a low potential for occurrence to
• be resident in the study area.
Faraday Avenue Extension, Agua Hedionda Sewer, and Carlsbad Oaks North Business Park 46
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Mule Deer (Odocoileus hemionus)
Listing:
Distribution:
Habitat:
Status:
Study Area:
USFWS-none
CDFG-none
Carlsbad HMP -Not presently covered, but may be added under the MHCP
Mule Deer occur throughout California.
Mule Deer use a wide variety of habitat types including sage scrub, chaparral,
riparian, grassland, and woodlands. During daylight hours, Mule Deer are more
inclined to remain in dense vegetation such as chaparral, taller sage scrub, or wooded
areas, but at night this species can be found foraging in more open habitats.
Mule Deer are common in San Diego County, but their numbers along the coast have
been significantly reduced due to habitat conversion for agricµlture and urban
development. •
Mule Deer sign was not observed on-site, and this species has apparently been absent
from the adjacent University of California reserve property (adjacent to the north) for
many years (Isabel Kay, U .C. Reserve, personal communication). On-site vegetation
quality appears highly suited to Mule Deer, but direct and indirect effects of
human/urban encroachment ( e.g., illegal immigrant encampments) may make the site
unsuitable .
Faraday Avenue Extension, Agua Hedionda Sewer, and Carlsbad Oaks North Business Park 47
Merkel & Associates, Inc. # 97-104-06 December I, 2000
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California. Technical Report Y-87-1. U.S. Army Engineers Waterways Experiment Station,
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Beauchamp, R. M. 1986. A Flora of San Diego County, California. Sweetwater River Press, National
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Bowman, Roy H. 1973. Soil Survey of the San Diego Area, California, Part I. U.S. Department of
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California Department of Fish and Game. 2000. List of Special Animals. July 2000.
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Threatened Animals of California. July 2000.
•
California Department of Fish and Game, Natural Heritage Division. 1998. Rarefind, California •
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City of Carlsbad. 1997. Habitat Management Plan for Natural Communities in the City of Carlsbad.
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Collins, Joseph T. 1990. Standard Common and Current Scientific Names for North American
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Everett, W. T. 1979. Threatened, Declining and Sensitive Bird Species in San Diego County. Audubon
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•
•
Garth, John S. and J.W. Tilden. 1986. California butterflies. California Natural History Guides: 51.
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Jennings, Mark R. and Marc P. Hayes. 1994. Amphibian and Reptile Species of Special Concern in
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• Oberbauer, T. 1993. Vegetation Communities in San Diego County Based on Holland's Descriptions.
Unpublished list.
Opler, Paul A. 1999. A Field Guide to Western Butterflies, 2nd Edition (Peterson Field Guide series).
Illustrated by Amy Bartlett Wright. Sponsored by the National Audubon Society, the National
Wildlife Federation, and the Roger Tory Peterson Institute. Houghton Mifflin Company ..
Reiser, Craig H. 1994. The Rare Plants of San Diego County. Aquafer Press. I 75 pp .
Recon (Regional Environmental Consultants). 1984. Biology Report for Carlsbad Oaks.
Faraday Avenue Extension, Agua Hedionda Sewer, and Carlsbad Oaks North Business Park 49
Merkel & Associates, Inc. # 97-104-06 December 1, 2000
Remsen, J. V., Jr. 1978. Bird Species of Special Concern in California. California Department of
Fish and Game, Sacramento, California. 54 p. •
Rising, James D. 1996. The Sparrows of the United States and Canada. Academic Press. 365pp.
Rogers, Thomas H. 1973. Geologic Map of California, Santa Ana Sheet. California Division of Mines
and Geology, Sacramento, California.
San Diego Non-Game Wildlife Subcommittee. 1976. Proposed List of Species and Habitats Requiring
Special Protection and Study in San Diego County. Memorandum to San Diego County
Environmental Quality Division.
Skinner, M.W. and B.M. Pavik. 1994. Inventory of Rare and Endangered Plants of California.
California Native Plant Society Publication No. 1, 5th Edition. Sacramento.
Sogge, Mark K., Robert M. Marshal, Susan J. Sferra, and Timothy J. Tibbitts. 1997. A Southwestern
Willow Flycatcher Natural History Summary and Survey Protocol. Technical Report
NPS/NAUCPRS/NRTR-97/12. May 1997.
Tate, James, Jr. 1986. The Blue List for 1986. American Birds 40(2)':227-236.
Unitt, P. 1984. The Birds of San Diego County. San Diego Soc. Nat. Hist. Memoir No. 13.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 1997. Survey Protocol for the Coastal California Gnatcatcher. Revised •
July 28, 1997.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 1988. National List of Plant Species that Occur in Wetlands: California
(Region 0). Biological Report 88(26.10). May 1988.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 1999. Least Bell's Vireo Survey Guidelines. April 8, 1999.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2000. Quino Checkerspot Butterfly (Euphydryas editha quino) Year
2000 Survey Protocol.
Williams, Daniel F. 1986. Mammalian Species of Special Concern in California. Wildlife
Management Division Administrative Report 86-1. California Department of Fish and Game.
June 1986.
Faraday Avenue Extension, Agua Hedionda Sewer, and Carlsbad Oaks North Business Park 50
•
•
APPENDIX!
FLORAL CHECKLIST OF SPECIES OBSERVED
•
•
APPENDIX 1. FLORAL CHECKLIST OF THE FARADAY SITE
Habitats: A = Cismontane Alkali Marsh B = Coyote Brush Scrub
F = Freshwater Marsh D = Diegan Coastal Sage Scrub
s = Freshwater Seep C = Southern Mixed Chaparral
E = Emergent Wetland • M = Southern Maritime Chaparral
T = Disturbed Wetland u = Mule Fat Scrub
G = Non-native Grassland w = Southern Willow Scrub
V = Valley Needlegrass Grassland R = Cottonwood/Willow Forest
0 = Oak Forest and Oak Woodlands
X = Exotic Vegetation (includes residential plantings, Pampas Grass, and Eucalyptus)
SCIENTIFIC NAME
CRYPTOGAMS
Pteridaceae -Brake Family
Pellaea mucronata var. mucronata
Pentagramma triangularis ssp. triangularis
Selaginellaceae -Spike-Moss Family
Selaginella cinerascens
DICOTYLEDONS
Aizoaceae -Carpet-weed Family
* Carpobrotus edulis
* Mesembryanthemum nodiflorum
Amaranthaceae -Amaranth Family
* Amaranthus blitoides
Anacardiaceae -Sumac Family
Malosma laurina
Rhus integrifolia
* Schinus molle
Toxicodendron diversilobum
Apiaceae -Carrot Family
Apiastrum angustifolium
* Apium graveolens
* Conium maculatum
* Foeniculum vulgare
Lomatium dasycarpum ssp. dasycarpum
Sanicula arguta
Sanicula crassicaulis
Asclepiadaceae -Milkweed Family
Asclepias fascicularis
Floral List
COMMON NAME
Bird's-foot Fem
California Goldenback Fem
Ashy Spike-moss
Hottentot-Fig
Slender-leaved l9eplant
Prostrate Amaranth
Laurel Sumac
Lemonadeberry
Peruvian Pepper Tree
Western Poison Oak
Mock Parsley
Celery
Common Poison Hemlock
Fennel
Woolly-fruit Lomatium
Sharp-tooth Sanicle
Pacific Sanicle
Narrow-leaf Milkweed
A-1
HABITAT
D
D
C,D
X
X
R
D
D
X
0
D
R
R
G
C
D
D
0
1
•
•
SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME HABITAT
• Asteraceae -Sunflower Family
Ambrosia psilostachya Western Ragweed R
Artemisia califomica California Sagebrush D
Artemisia douglasiana Mugwort R
Artemisia dracunculus Tarragon R
Artemisia palmeri San Diego Sagewort 0
Baccharis emoryi Emory's Baccharis D
Baccharis pilularis Coyote Brush B,D
Baccharis salicifolia Mule Fat R,U
Brickellia califomica California Brickellbush D
* Carduus pycnocephalus Italian Thistle X
* Centaurea melitensis Tocalote G
Chaenactis artemisiaefolia Artemisia Pincushion D
Chaenactis glabriuscula var. glabriuscula Yell ow Pincushion D
Cirsium occidentale var. californicum California Thistle D
* Cirsium vulgare Bull Thistle R
* Conyza canadensis Horse weed X
* Cotula australis Australian Brass-buttons X
* Cotula coronopif olia Brass-buttons F
* Cynara cardunculus Cardoon G
Encelia californica California Encelia D
Erigeronfoliosus var.foliosus Leafy Daisy D
• Eriophyllum confertiflorum var. confertiflorum Golden-yarrow D
Filago californica California Filago D
* Filago gallica Narrow-leaf Filago G
Gnaphalium bicolor Bicolor Cudweed D
Gnaphalium californicum California Everlasting D
Gnaphalium canescens ssp. beneolens Fragrant Everlasting C
Gnaphalium palustre Lowland Cudweed F
Gnaphalium straminium Cotton-batting Plant D
Grindelia camporum var. camporum Big Gumplant V
Hazardia squarrosa ssp. grindelioides Saw-toothed Goldenbush D
* Hedypnois cretica Crete Hedypnois G
Hemizonia fasciculata Fascicled Tarplant G
Heterotheca grandiflora Telegraph Weed G
* Hypochoeris glabra Smooth Cat's-ear D
Isocoma menziesii var. menziesii Golden bush V
Isocoma menziesii var. decumbent Goldenbush Decumbent D
* La,ctuca serriola Wild Lettuce w
Lessingia filaginifolia var. filaginifolia Cudweed Aster V
Osmadenia tenella Osmadenia D
* Picris echioides Bristly Ox-tongue w
Pluchea odorata Salt Marsh Fleabane s
Porophyllum gracile Odora D
Psilocarphus tenellus Dwarf Wooly-headed D • Rafinesquia califomica California Chicory D
* Senecio vulgaris Common Groundsel G
* Silybum marianum Milk-thistle G
Floral List A-1 2
SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMONNAME HABITAT
* Sonchus asper Prickly Sow Thistle G • * Sonchus oleraceus Common Sow Thistle G
Stephanomeria virgata ssp. virgata Virgate Wreath-plant D
Stylocline gnaphalioides Everlasting Nest Straw D
* Tragopogon porrifolius Purple Salsify G
Uropappus lindleyi Silver Puffs D
* Xanthium strumarium Cocklebur E
Boraginaceae -Borage Family
Amsinckia menziesii var. intermedia Rancher's Fireweed D
Cryptantha intermedia Nievitas, Cryptantha D
Heliotropium curvassavicum Salt Heliotrope A
P lagiobothrys acanthocarpus Adobe Popcornflower D
Plagiobothrys collinus var. gracilis Small California Popcornflower D
Brassicaceae -Mustard Family
* Brassica nigra Black Mustard G
* Hirschfeldia incana Short-pod Mustard G
* Raphanus sativus Radish G
* Rorippa nasturtium-offtcinale Water Cress F
Cactaceae -Cactus Family
* Opuntia ficus-indica Indian-fig X • Opuntia littoralis Coast Prickly-pear D
Capparaceae -Caper Family
lsomeris arborea Bladderpod D
Caprifoliaceae -Honeysuckle Family
Lonicera subspicata var. denudata San Diego Honeysuckle D
Sambucus mexicana Blue Elderberry D
Caryophyllaceae -Pink Family
Cardionema ramosissimum Tread Lightly D
* Cerastium glomeratum Mouse-ear Chickweed G
* Silene gallica Common Catchfly G
* Spergula arvensis Stickwort Starwort G
Spergularia marina Salt Marsh Sand-spurry A
Chenopodiaceae -Goosefoot Family
Atriplex canescens ssp. canescens Four-wing Saltbush D
Atriplex lentiformis Quail Saltbush G
* Atriplex semibaccata Australian Saltbush G
Atriplex triangularis Spearscale Saltbush A
* Chenopodium album Lamb's Quarters G
Chenopodium ambrosioides Mexican Tea w • Salicomia virginica Pickleweed A
* Salsola tragus Russian Thistle G
Floral List A-1 3
SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMONNAME HABITAT
• Cistaceae -Rock-Rose Family
Helianthemum scoparium Peak Rush-rose D
Convolvulaceae -Morning-Glory Family
Calystegia macrostegia ssp. intermedia Morning-glory D
* Convolvulus arvensis Bindweed G
Convolvulus simulans Clay Bindweed V
Dichondra occidentalis Western Dichondra D
Crassulaceae -Stonecrop Family
Crassula connata Dwarf Stonecrop D
Dudleya lanceolata Coastal Dudleya D
Cucurbitaceae -Gourd Family
Marah macrocarpus var. macrocarpus Wild Cucumber D
Cuscutaceae -Dodder Family
Cuscuta califomica var. califomica Witch's Hair D
Ericaceae -Heath Family
Arctostaphylos glandulosa ssp. zacaensis Eastwood Manzanita C
Comarostaphylis diversifolia ssp. diversifolia Summer-Holly M • Xylococcus bicolor Mission Manzanita C,M
Euphorbiaceae -Spurge Family
Chamaesyce polycarpa Small-seed Sandmat D
Eremocarpus setigerus Doveweed G
* Ricinus communis Castor-bean A
Fabaceae -Pea Family
* Cercidium sp. Palo Verde C
Lathyrus vestitus ssp. alefeldii San Diego Sweetpea D
Lotus hamatus Grab Lotus D
Lotus scoparius ssp. brevialatus Deerweed D
Lotus scoparius var. scoparius Coastal Deerweed D
Lupinus bicolor Miniature Lupine D
Lupinus succulentus Arroyo Lupine G
* Medicago polymorpha California Burclover G
* Melilotus albUs White Sweetclover R
* Melilotus indicas Sourclover G
Vicia americana var. americana American Vetch 0
Fagaceae -Oak Family
Quercus agrifolia Coast Live Oak 0
Quercus engelmannii Engelmann Oak 0 • Quercus berberidifolia Scrub Oak C
Quercus dumosa Nuttall's Scrub Oak M
Floral List A-1 4
SCIENTIFIC NAME
Gentianaceae -Gentian Family
Centaurium venustum
Geraniaceae -Geranium Family
* Erodium brachycarpum
* Erodium cicutarium
* Erodium moschatum
Geranium carolinianum
• Grossulariaceae -Currant Family
Ribes speciosum
Lamiaceae -Mint Family
Acanthomintha ilicifolia
* Marrubium vulgare
Salvia columbariae
Salvia mellifera
Stachys ajugoides var. rigida
Trichostema lanatum
Lythraceae -Loosestrife Family
* Lythrum hyssopifolia
Malvaceae -Mallow Family
M alacothamnus f asciculatus
Sidalcea malvaeflora ssp. sparsifolia
Myrtaceae -Myrtle Family
* Eucalyptus sp.
Nyctaginaceae -Four-O'Clock Family
Mirabilis californica
COMMON NAME
Canchalagua
Short-beak Filaree
Red-stem Filaree
White-stem Filaree
Carolina Geranium
Fuchsia-flowered Gooseb~rfy
San Diego Thorn-mint
Horehound
Chia
Black Sage
Hedge Nettle
Woolly Blue-curls
Grass Poly
HABITAT
D
G
G
R
R
D
V
G
D
D
R
G
A
Mesa Bush Mallow, Chaparral Mallow D
Checker-bloom D
Eucalyptus X
California Wishbone Plant D
Onagraceae -Evening-Prin1.rose Fan1.ily
Epj]objun1 cjhatun1 ssp. cjhatun1 Willow Herb s
Oxalidaceae -Wood-Sorrel Family
Oxalis albicans ssp. califomica
* Oxalis pes-caprae
Pinaceae -Pine Family
* Pinus sp.
Plantaginaceae -Plantain Family
Plantago erecta
* Plantago lanceolata
* Plantago major
Floral List
California Wood-sorrel
Bermuda-buttercup
Ornamental Pine
Dot-seed Plantain
English Plantain
Common Plantain
A-1
D
G
X
D
R
R
5
•
•
•
SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME HABITAT • Platanaceae -Sycamore Family
Platanus racemosa Western Sycamore R
Plumbaginaceae -Leadwort Family
* Limonium perezii Perez Rosemary G
Polemoniaceae -Phlox Family
Eriastrum filifolium Thread-leaf Woolly-star D
Navarretia atractyloides Holly-leaf Skunkweed D
Navarretia hamata Hooked Skunkweed D
Polygonaceae -Buckwheat Family
Chorizanthe fimbriata var. fimbriata Fringed Spineflower C
Erio gonum fasciculatum var. foliolosum Interior Flat-top Buckwheat D
* Polygonum arenastrum Common Knotweed G
* Rumex crispus Curly Dock E
Portulacaceae -Purslane Family
Claytonia pe,foliata ssp. pe,foliata Common Miner's-lettuce n·
Primulaceae -Primrose Family
* Anagallis arvensis Scarlet Pimpernel G • Dodecatheon clevelandii ssp. clevelandii Padre's Shooting Star D
Ranunculaceae -Crowfoot Family
Thalictrum fendleri var. polycarpum Fendler's Meadow-rue D
Rhamnaceae -Buckthorn Family
Adolphia californica California Adelphia D
Ceanothus tomentosus Ramona Ceanothus C
Rhamnus ilicifolia Holly-leaf Redberry C
Rosaceae -Rose Family
Adenostoma f asciculatum Chamise C,M
Cercocarpus minutiflorus San Diego Mountain-Mahogany C,M
Heteromeles arbutifolia Toyon C,D
Potentilla glandulosa ssp. glandulosa Sticky Cinquefoil 0
Rosa californica California Rose o,w
Rubiaceae -Madder Family
Galium angustifolium ssp. angustifolium Narrow-leaf Bedstraw D
* Galium aparine Goose Grass 0
Galium nuttallii ssp. nuttallii Nuttall's Bedstraw D
• Salicaceae -Willow Family
Salix gooddingii Goodding's Black Willow R,W
Salix lasiolepis Arroyo Willow R,W
Salix lucida ssp. lasiandra Lance-leaf Willow R,W
Floral List A-1 6
SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME HABITAT
Saururaceae -Lizard-tail Family • Anemopsis californica YerbaMansa A
Saxifragaceae -Saxifrage Family
J epsonia parryi Coast Jepsonia D
Scrophulariaceae -Figwort Family
Cordylanthus rigidus ssp. setigerus Dark-tip Bird's-beak D
Mimulus aurantiacus San Diego Monkeyflower D
Mimulus pilosus Downy Monkeyflower R
Penstemon spectabilis Showy Penstemon ' C
Scrophularia californica ssp. floribunda California Figwort D
Solanaceae -Nightshade Family
Datura wrightii Western Jimsonweed G
* Nicotiana glauca Tree Tobacco X
Solanum douglasii Douglas' Nightshade D
Solanum parishii Parish's Nightshade C
Tamaricaceae -Tamarisk Family
* Tamarix sp. Tamarisk T
Verbenaceae -Verbena Family • Verbena lasiostachys var. lasiostachys Western Vervain w
Violaceae -Violet Family
Viola pedunculata Johnny-jump-up D
Viscaceae -Mistletoe Family
Phoradendron villosum Oak Mistletoe R
MONOCOTYLEDONS
Arecaceae -Palm Family
* Washingtonia robusta Thread Palm R
Cyperaceae -Sedge Family
Carex spissa San Diego Sedge 0
Cyperus eragrostis Tall Flatsedge F,R
* Cyperus involucratus Umbrella Flatsedge F
Eleocharis montevidensis Dombey's Spike-sedge A,S
Scirpus californicus California Bulrush F
Scirpus robustus Prairie Bulrush F
lridaceae -Iris Family • Sisyrinchium bellum Blue-eyed-grass V,G
Floral List A-1 7
SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME HABITAT
• Juncaceae -Rush Family
Juncus acutus ssp. leopoldii Spiny Rush A
Juncus bufonius var. bufonius Toad Rush w
Juncus dubius Mariposa Rush w
Juncus mexicanus Mexican Rush F,S
Liliaceae -Lily Family
* Asphodelus fistulosus Hollow-stem Asphodel G
Bloomeria crocea Common Goldenstar V,G
Brodiaea filifolia Thread-leaved Brodiaea V
Brodiaea jolonensis Mesa Brodiaea V
Calochortus splendens Splendid Mariposa D
Chlorogalum parviflorum Small-flower Soap-plant C,M
Dichelostemma capitatum ssp. capitatum Wild Hyacinth D,G,V
Yucca schidigera Mojave Yucca C,M
Yucca whipplei Our Lord's Candle D
Zigadenus fremontii Fremont's Camas V
Poaceae -Grass Family
Achnatherum coronatum Giant Needlegrass C
* Arundo donax Giant Reed R
* Avena barbata Slender Wild Oat D,G • Bothriochloa barbinodis Cane Bluestem D
Bromus carinatus var. carinatus California Brome D
* Bromus diandrus Ripgut Grass D,G
* Bromus hordeaceus Soft Chess D,G
* Bromus madritensis ssp. rubens Red Brome G
* Cortaderia jubata Pampas Grass X
* Cynodon dactylon Bermuda Grass G,W
Distichlis spicata Saltgrass A,W
* Gastridium ventricosum Nut Grass G
Hordeum brachyantherum Meadow Barley V,G
Hordeum murinum ssp. leporinum Hare Barley G
* Lamarckia aurea Golden-top D
Leptochloa uninervia Dense-flower Sprangle-top R
Leymus condensatus Giant Wild Rye D,G
* Lolium multiflorum Italian Ryegrass G
* Lolium temulentum Darnel G
Melica imperfecta Coast Range Melic D
Muhlenbergia rigens Deergrass w
Nassella lepida Foothill Needlegrass D,V
Nassella pulchra Purple Needlegrass G,V
* Pennisetum setaceum Fountain Grass X
* Phalaris canariensis Mediterranean Canary Grass G
* Piptatherum miliaceum Smilo Grass 0 • * Poa annua Annual Bluegrass G
* Polypogon monspeliensis Annual Beard Grass E
* Rhynchelytrum repens Natal Grass D
Floral List A-1 8
SCIENTIFIC NAME
* Schismus barbatus
* Sorghum halepense
* Vulpia myuros var. hirsuta
Typhaceae -Cat-Tail Family
Typha latifolia
* -Denotes non-native plant taxa
Floral List
COMMONNAME
Mediterranean Schismus
J ohnsongrass
Foxtail Fescue
Broad-leaved Cattail
HABITAT
0 • 0
D,G
F
•
•
A-1 9
APPENDIX2
FAUNAL CHECKLIST OF SPECIES DETECTED
•
•
APPENDIX 2. WILDLIFE SPECIES OBSERVED OR DETECTED
HABITATS: A = Agricultural Field C = Chaparral ( all types)
D = Disturbed Areas E = Exotic Vegetation
F = Ayover G = Grasslands (Native and Non-native)
M = Freshwater/ Alkaline Marsh 0 = Oak Woodlands
p = Ponded Water s = Coastal Sage Scrub
R = Riparian Woodlands (sycamores, willows)
ABUNDANCE CODES:
A = Abundant: Almost always encountered in moderate to large numbers in suitable habitat
and the indicated season.
C = Common: Usually encountered i~ proper habitat at the given season.
U Uncommon: Infrequently detected in suitable habitat. May occur in small numbers or
only locally in the given season.
R = Rare: Applies to species which are found in very low numbers.
X = Reported by others on-site or in similar, contiguous habitat
(M&A 1997; Dudek 1997, 1999a, 1999b; KEA 1998)
'Numbers' indicate the number of individuals observed during the recent survey work
STATUS CODES (BIRDS ONLY):
M. = Migrant: Uses the site for brief periods of time, primarily during the spring and fall
months.
R = Year-round resident: Probable breeder on-site or in the vicinity.
S = Spring/summer resident: Probable breeder on-site or in the vicinity.
T = Transient: Uses site regularly but unlikely to breed on-site.
W = Winter visitor: Does not breed locally.
Fauna/ List A-2-1
•
•
•
•
•
•
APPENDIX 2. WILDLIFE OBSERVED OR DETECTED
COMMONNAME SCIENTIFIC NAME ABUNDANCE STATUS HABITAT
BUTTERFLIES
Papilionidae (Swallowtail Butterflies)
Western Tiger Swallowtail Papilio rutulus u R
Anise Swallowtail Papilio zelicaon u F,R
Pieridae (White, Orange-tip, and Sulfur Butterflies)
Checkered White Pontia protodice C G
Cabbage White Pieris rapae C , __ G
Sara Orangetip Anthocharis sara sara u R
Gray Marble Anthocharis lanceolata X
Lycaenidae (Hairstreak, Copper, and Blue Butterflies)
Sylvan Hairstreak Satyrium sylvinus X
Hedgerow Hairstreak Satyrium saepium X
Brown Elfin Callophrys augustinus u c,s
Western Pigmy-Blue Brephidium exile u G,S
Marine Blue Leptotes marina u G,S
Edward's Blue Hemiargus ceraunus gyas u s
Bernardino Dotted-Blue Euphilotes bernardino X
Acmon Blue Icaricia acmon u s
Riodinidae (Metalmarks)
Behr's Metalmark Apodemia virgulti C s
Nymphalidae (Brush-footed Butterflies)
Mourning Cloak Nymphalis antiopa u R
Painted Lady Vanessa cardui X
West Coast Lady Vanessa anabella u F
Common Buckeye Junonia coenia C G
Lorquin's Admiral Basilarchia lorquini u R
California Sister Adelpha bredowii californica u 0
Common Ringlet
Hesperiidae (Skipper Butterflies)
Funereal Duskywing
White Checkered-Skipper
Rural Skipper
FISHES
Poeciliidae (Livebearers)
Mosquitofish
Faunal List
Coenonympha tuilla
Erynnis funeralis
Pyrgus albescens
Ochlodes agricola
Gambusia affinis
A G
C c,s
R G
C G,O
C p
A-2-2
COMMONNAME SCIENTIFIC NAME ABUNDANCE STATUS HABITAT
AMPIDBIANS • Bufonidae (True Toads)
California Toad Bufo boreas halophilus tadpoles p
Hylidae (Chorus Frogs and Relatives)
Pacific Chorus Frog Pseudacris regilla C R
Ranidae (True Frogs)
Bullfrog Rana catesbeiana X p
REPTILES
Phrynosomatidae
Western Fence Lizard Sceloporus occidentalis C C,G,O,R,S
San Diego Homed Lizard Phrynosoma coronatum blainvillii U c,s
Teiidae (Whiptails and Relatives)
Orangethroat Whiptail Cnemidophorus hyperythrus C c,s
Anguidae (Alligator Lizards and Relatives)
Southern Alligator Lizard Elgaria multicarinata R D • Colubridae (Colubrids)
California Striped Racer Masticophis lateralis lateralis R D
Coast Patchnose Snake Salvadora hexalepis virgultea X s
San Diego Gopher Snake Pituophis catenifer annectens X
California Kingsnake Lampropeltis getula califomiae R s
Viperidae (Vipers)
No. Red Diamond Rattlesnake Crotalus ruber ruber X s
BIRDS
Pelecanidae (Pelicans)
American White Pelican Pelecanus erythrorhynchos X assumed flyover
Ardeidae (Herons and Bitterns)
Great Blue Heron Ardea herodias u T p
Black-crowned Night Heron Nycticorax nycticorax X
Cathartidae (AmericanVultures)
Turkey Vulture Cathartes aura u T F
Anatidae (Swans, Geese, and Ducks) • Mallard Anas platyrhynchos u y R
Cinnamon Teal Anas cyanoptera X
Faunal List A-2-3
COMMONNAME SCIENTIFIC NAME ABUNDANCE STATUS HABITAT
• Accipitridae (Hawks, Old World Vultures, and Harriers)
White-tailed Kite Elanus leucurus C y O,R
Northern Harrier Circus cyaneus C y G,S
Sharp-shinned Hawk Accipiter striatus X w F
Cooper's Hawk Accipiter cooperii u y O,R
Red-shouldered Hawk Buteo lineatus C y O,R
Red-tailed Hawk Buteo jamaicensis C y G,O,R,S
Falconidae (Caracaras and Falcons)
American Kestrel Falco sparverius u y F,G,S
Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus R ,M F
Phasianidae (Quails, Pheasants, and Relatives)
California Quail Callipepla californica A y c,s
Rallidae (Rails, Gallimiles, and Coots)
Sora Porzana carolina X y M
Charadriidae (Plovers and Relatives)
Killdeer Charadrius vociferus C y A,D
Columbidae (Pigeons and Doves)
Rock Dove Columba livia C y F • Mourning Dove Zenaida macroura C y F,O,R,S
Cuculidae (Typical Cuckoos)
Greater Roadrunner Geococcyx califo_rnianus C y s
Tytonidae (Barn Owls)
Barn Owl Tyto alba X y
Strigidae (Typical Owls)
Western Screech-Owl Otus kennicottii X y 0
Great Homed Owl Bubo virginianus R y O,R
Caprimulgidae (Goatsuckers)
Common Poorwill Phalaenoptilus nuttallii R M? s
Apodidae (Swifts)
White-throated Swift Aeronautes saxatalis u y F
Trochilidae (Hummingbirds)
Anna's Hummingbird Calypte anna ·C y C,E,O,R,S
Costa's Hummingbird Calypte costae C s C,R,S
Rufous/ Allen's Hummingbird Selasphorus sp . R M s
• Picidae (Woodpeckers and Wrynecks)
Acom Woodpecker M elane rpes formicivorus X 0
Red-breasted Sapsucker Sphyrapicus ruber R M R
Fauna[ List A-2-4
COMMON NAME SCIENTIFIC NAME ABUNDANCE STATUS HABITAT
Nuttall's Woodpecker Picoides nuttallii C y R • Downy Woodpecker Picoides pubescens R y R
Northern Flicker Colaptes auratus R y O,R
Tyrannidae (Tyrant Flycatchers)
Willow Flycatcher Empidonax traillii 1 observation M R
Pacific-slope Flycatcher Empidonax difficilis C s R,O
Black Phoebe Sayornis nigricans C y E,G,S
Say's Phoebe Sayornis saya X w D,G
Ash-throated Flycatcher Myiarchus cinerascens C s R,O
Cassin's Kingbird Tyrannusvociferans u , ,y G,S,O
Western Kingbird Tyrannus verticalis X
Vireonidae (Typical Vireos)
Hutton's Vireo Vireo huttoni u y R,O
Corvidae (Jays, Magpies, and Crows)
Western Scrub-Jay Aphelocoma californica C y C,O,S
American Crow Corvus brachyrhynchos C y A,F,O
Common Raven Corvus corax C y A,F,O,R
Alaudidae (Larks)
Homed Lark Eremophila alpestris C Y? A • Hirundinidae (Swallows)
Northern Rough-winged Swallow Stelgidopteryx serripennis C s F
Cliff Swallow Petrochelidon pyrrhonota C s F·
Baro Swallow Hirundo rustica R Y? F
Aegithalidae (Bushtit)
Bushtit Psaltriparus minimus C y C,O,R,S,
Troglodytidae (Wrens)
Bewick's Wren Thryomanes bewickii C y c,s
House Wren Troglodytes aedon C y 0
Regulidae (Kinglets)
Ruby-crowned Kinglet Regulus calendula X w
Sylviidae (Old World Warblers and Gnatcatchers)
Blue-gray Gnatcatcher Polioptila caurulea X M!W
California Gnatcatcher Polioptila californica 4 territories y s
Turdidae (Bluebirds and Thrushes)
American Robin Turdus migratorius X M/W
Timaliidae (Wrentit) • Wrentit Chamaea fasciata C y c,s
Fauna/ List A-2-5
COMMON NAME SCIENTIFIC NAME ABUNDANCE STATUS HABITAT
• Mimidae (Mockingbirds and Thrashers)
Northern Mockingbird Mimus polyglottos u y E,S
California Thrasher Toxostoma redivivum C y c,s
Sturnidae (Starlings)
European Starling Sturnus vulgaris C y R
Parulidae (Warblers)
Orange-crowned Warbler Vermivora celata C MIS R,O
Yell ow-rumped Warbler Dendroica coronata X w
Black-throated Gray Warbler Dendroica nigrescens u , ,M R
Common Yellowthroat Geothlypis trichas C y M,R
Wilson's Warbler Wilsonia pusilla u M R
Yellow-breasted Chat Icteria virens 2 s R
Emberizidae (Sparrows, Blackbirds and Relatives)
Spotted Towhee Pipilo maculatus C y C,O,R,S
California Towhee Pipilo crissalis A y c,o,s
So. Ca. Rufous-crowned Sparrow Aimophila ruficeps canescens C y c,s
Song Sparrow Melospiza melodia C y M,R
White-crowned Sparrow Zonotrichia leucophrys X w
• Cardinalidae (Grosbeaks, Buntings, and Relatives)
Black-headed Grosbeak Pheucticus melanocephalus u s O,R
Blue Grosbeak Guiraca caerulea u s R
lcteridae (Blackbirds, Meadowlarks, Orioles, and Relatives)
Red-winged Blackbird Agelaius phoeniceus C y M,R
Western Meadowlark Sturnella neglecta u Y? G
Brown-headed Cowbird Molothrus ater u s R
Hooded Oriole lcterus cucullatus u s E,R
Bullock's Oriole Icterus bullockii u s R
Fringillidae (Finches)
House Finch Carpodacus mexicanus C y C,O,R,S
Lesser Goldfinch Carduelis psaltria C y G,M,R
American Goldfinch Carduelis tristis u y R
Passeridae (Weaver Finches)
House Sparrow Passer domesticus X
MAMMALS
Leporidae (Rabbits and Hares) • Desert Cottontail Sylvilagus audubonii C s
San Diego Black-tailed Jackrabbit Lepus californicus bennettii droppings G
Fauna/List A-2-6
COMMONNAME SCIENTIFIC NAME ABUNDANCE STATUS HABITAT
Sciuridae (Squirrels, Chipmunks, and Marmots)
California Ground Squirrel Spermophilus beecheyi
Geomyidae (Pocket Gophers)
Botta's Pocket Gopher Thomomys bottae
u
burrows
Muridae (Rats, mice, and voles)
San Diego Desert Woodrat
Dusky-footed Woodrat
Neotoma lepida intermedia stick nests, droppings
Neotoma fuscipes stick nests, droppings
Canidae (Foxes, Wolves, and Relatives)
Coyote Canis latrans
Gray Fox Urocyon cinereoargenteus
Procyonidae (Raccoons and Relatives)
Raccoon Procyon lotor
Mustelidae (Weasels, Badgers, and Relatives)
Striped Skunk Mephitis mephitis
Felidae (Cats)
Bobcat
FaunalList
Felis rufus
scats
scats
tracks
scent
scat
D,G
G,S
c,s
O,R
C,G,S
c,o,s
R
0
c,s
A-2-7
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APPENDIX3
PLANT AND ANIMAL SENSITIVITY GUIDELINES
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Faraday Avenue Extension, Asua Hedionda Trunk Sewer, Carlsbad Oaks North December 26, 2000
PLANT AND ANIMAL SENSITIVITY GUIDELINES
Listings by USFWS and CDFG carry regulatory authority, while other listings herein are generally
advisory in nature and serve to monitor and inform.
FEDERALLY LISTED AND CANDIDA TE SPECIES
FE Federal Endangered Species
Ff Federal Threatened Species
FC Federal Candidate Species
FSC Federal Special Concern Species
FPE Federal Proposed Endangered
FPT Federal Proposed Threatened
CALIFORNIA LISTED AND CANDIDATE SPECIES
CE California Endangered Species
CT California Threatened Species
CP California Fully Protected Species
Merkel & Associates # 97-106-06
Listed as Endangered by the federal government
under the Endangered Species Act of 1973. Taxa
that are in danger of becoming extinct throughout
all or a significant portion of thei~ r~nge.
Listed as Threatened by the federal government
under the Endangered Species Act of 1973. Taxa
which are likely to become Endangered in the
foreseeable future in the absence of special
protection.
Taxa for which the USFWS has sufficient biological
information to support a proposal ·to list as
endangered or threatened.
Applies to taxa for which information may exist to
possibly support listing, but for which substantial
biological information is lacking to support a
proposed rule.
Taxa which have been officially proposed for
federal endangered status, but the biological
information to make such a determination is
currently under review.
Taxa which have been officially proposed for
federal endangered status, but the biological
information to make such a determination is
currently under review.
A native California taxa which is in serious danger
of becoming extinct throughout all or a significant
portion of its range (Fish & Game Code 2062).
A native California taxa which, although not
presently threatened with extinction, is likely to
become an endangered species in the foreseeable
future in the absence of special protection and
management efforts (Fish & Game Code 2067) .
Taxa which fall under special protection within the
A-3 -1
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Faraday Avenue Extension, Agua Hedionda Trunk Sewer, Carlsbad Oaks North December 26, 2000
CSA California Special Animals
csc CDFG Species of Special Concern
Fish & Game Codes (3511, 3700, 4800, 4900, 5000,
5050, 5515).
Taxa listed as Special Animals fall into one or more
of the following categories:
• Taxa that are biologically rare, very
restricted in distribution, or declining
throughout their range.
• Population(s) in California that may be
peripheral to the major portion of a taxon's
range, but which are ,th,reatened with
extirpation within California.
• Taxa closely associated with a habitat that is
declining in California rapidly
( e.g., wetlands, riparian, old growth forests).
Taxa for which sufficient information exists which
warrants concern over that species status and may
warrant future listing as threatened or endangered.
Protective status falls under State Government Code
66474.
CALIFORNIA NATIVE PLANT SOCIETY R-E-D CODE
R (Rarity)
1 Rare, but found in sufficient numbers and distributed widely enough that the potential for
extinction of extirpation is low at this time.
2 Occurrence confined to several populations or to one extended population.
3 Occurrence limited to one or a few highly restricted populations, or present in such small
numbers that it is seldom reported.
E (Endangerment)
1 Not endangered.
2 Endangered in a portion of its range.
3 Endangered throughout its range.
D (Distribution)
1 More or less widespread outside of California.
2 Rare outside California.
3 Endemic to California.
List lB:
List 2:
List 3:
Plants rare, threatened, or endangered in California or elsewhere
Plants rare or endangered in California, but more common elsewhere.
Plants about which more information is needed.
List 4: Plants of limited distribution.
A "?" under Rarity/Endangerment/Distribution is given when information to allocate a code is
incomplete .
NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL SENSITIVITY LISTINGS
Merkel & Associates# 97-106-06 A-3 -2
Faraday Avenue Extension, Agua Hedionda Trunk Sewer, Carlsbad Oaks North December 26, 2000
BL
CITES
IUCN
Audubon Society Blue List
(Tate 1986)
National listing of species which are showing
patterns of decline over all or part of their natural
range.
Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wildlife Fauna and Flora
(1976)
International Union for the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources
LOCAL SENSITIVITY LISTINGS (SAN DIEGO COUNTY)
SDHS San Diego Herpetological Society (1980)
Threatened Species or subspecies which have dramatically declined and could
potentially reach the level of endangered in San Diego County.
Endangered Species which are in immediate danger of extirpation in all or major
parts of their range in San Diego County.
SDNGWS San Diego Non-Game Wildlife Subcommittee (1986)
Ev
Sensitive Species Species warranting special concern and protection and may be
recommended for further study.
Everett (1979)
Threatened
Declining
Sensitive
Considered sensitive in San Diego County.
A species or subspecies which has undergone dramatic, non-cyclic,
long-term population declines, to the point where the situation has
reached the critical level throughout their range. Many of these species
have been recognized and protected by state or federal legislation.
A species whose local breeding populations have been steadily reduced,
or in some cases extirpated.
A species for which declines have not been documented, but are
regarded as sensitive because of: 1) extremely localized or limited
distribution, 2) sensitivity to disturbance, 3) actual or impending
destruction of essential habitat, or 4) lack of sufficient data on current
or past status which significantly increased the potential for serious
reduction of a local population.
Merkel & Associates# 97-106-06 A-3 - 3
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APPENDIX4
WETLAND DATA FORMS
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Project/Site:
Applicant/Owner:
Investigator:
DATA FORM
ROUTINE WETLAND DETERMINATION
(1987 COE Wetlands Delineation Manual)
Faraday Avenue Extension Date:
County:
Kyle L. Ince, Navroop K. Jassal State:
Do normal circumstances exist on the site? 181 Yes □No Community ID:
Is the site significantly disturbed (Atypical Situation)? □Yes 181 No Transect ID:
Is the area a potential Problem Area? □Yes 181No Plot ID:
(If needed, explain on reverse.)
, .
VEGETATION
Dominant Plant Species Stratum Indicator Dominant Plant Species
1. Eleocharis montevidensis H FACW 9.
2 Polypogon monspeliensis H FACW 10.
3. Picris echioides H FAC IL
4. 12.
5. 13.
6. 14.
7. 15.
8. 16.
:\, Percentage of Dominant Species that are OBL, FACW or PAC (excluding PAC-). 100%
,, .. 1i•
Remarks: Cismontane Alkali Marsh
HYDROLOGY
181 Recorded Data (Described in Remarks): Wetland Hydrology Indicators:
□ Stream, Lake, or Tide Gauge Primary Indicators:
181 Aerial Photographs □ Inundated
□ Other □ Saturated in Upper 12 inches
□ No Recorded Data Available 0 Water Marks
□ Drift Lines
Field Observations: □ Sediment Deposits
Depth of Surface Water: -(in.) 181 Drainage Patterns in Wetlands
Depth to free Water in Pit -(in.) Secondary Indicators (2 or more required):
8-30-00
San Diego
CA
CAM
DP19
PP13
Stratum Indicator
Depth of Saturated Soil: -(in.) 181 Oxidized Root Channels in Upper 12 Inches
□ Water-Stained Leaves
□ Local Soil Survey Data
□ PAC-Neutral Test
□ Other (Explain in Remarks)
Remarks: Two secondary indicators.
so-as
Map Unit Name ·
(Series and Phase): Cieneba coarse sandy loam Drainage Class: excessively drained
Field Observations
Taxonomy (Sub~oup): Typic Xerorthents Confirm Maooed Type? □Yes 181No
Profile Descri12tion:
Depth Matrix Color Mottle Colors Mottle , ,,
(inches) Horizon (Munsell Moist) <Munsell Moist) (Abundance/Contrast) Texture, Concretions, Structure, etc.
0-6 7.SYR 4/3 --sandy loam
Hydric Soil Indicators:
D Histosol □ Concretions
D Histic Epipedon □ High Organic Content in surface layer in Sandy Soils
□ Sulfidic Odor □ Organic Streaking in Sandy Soils
□ Aguie Moisture Regime □ Listed on Local Hydric Soils List D Reducing Conditions □ Listed on National Hydric Soils List_ .,,
□ Gleyed or Low-Chroma Colors □ Other (Explain in Remarks) ?-.... , ~
Remarks; Unable to dig more than 6 inches because of very hard ground.
WETLAND DETERMINATION
Hydrophytic Vegetation Present? Yes 181 No □
Wetland Hydrology Present? Yes □ No 181
Hydric Soils Present? Yes □ No 181 Is this Sampling Point Within a Wetland? Yes □ No 181
Remarks: Upland vegetation adjacent to Southern willow Scrub vegetation.
Approved by HQUSACE 3/92
• • .)
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APPENDIX5
PHOTO POINTS