HomeMy WebLinkAboutCT 97-15; Lohf Property; Tentative Map (CT) (12)I
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BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES REPORT
AND IMPACT ANALYSIS
FOR THE POINSETTIA LANE ALIGNMENT
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WITHIN ZONE 21
CITY OF CARLSBAD
SAN DIEGO COUNTY, CALIFORNIA
Prepared for:
I WESTERN PACIFIC HOUSING
2385 Camino Vida Roble, Suite 107
- Carlsbad, CA 92009
Contact: Scot Sandstrom
_ (760) 929-1600
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Prepared by:
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Contact: Anita M. Hayworth, Ph.D.
• (760) 942-5147
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10 August 1998
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DUDEK & ASSOCIATES, INC.
605 Third Street
Encinitas, California 92024
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Section Page
SUMMARY OF PROJECT FINDINGS iv
1.0 INTRODUCTION 1
2.0 METHODS AND SURVEY LIMITATIONS 1
2.1 Literature Review 1
2.2 Field Reconnaissance 1
2.2.1 Resource Mapping 1
2.2.2 Flora 2
2.2.3 Fauna 2
2.2.4 Sensitive Biological Resources 2
3.0 PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS 3
3.1 Site Description 3
4.0 RESULTS 3
4.1 Botany - Plant Communities and Floral Diversity 3
4.1.1 Southern Mixed Chaparral 6
4.1.2 Southern Maritime Chaparral 6
4.1.3 Southern Coast Live Oak Riparian Forest 8
4.1.4 Eucalyptus Woodland 8
4.1.5 Disturbed/Developed Habitat 9
4.1.6 Floral Diversity 9
4.2 Zoology - Wildlife Diversity 9
4.2.1 Birds 9
4.2.2 Reptiles and Amphibians 9
4.2.3 Mammals 10
4.3 Sensitive Biological Resources 10
4.3.1 Sensitive Plant Species 10
4.3.2 Sensitive Wildlife Species 12
4.3.3 Sensitive Habitats 13
4.3.4 Wildlife Corridors and Habitat Linkages 13
4.4 Regional Resource Planning Context 14
5.0 ANTICIPATED PROJECT IMPACTS 15
5.1 Explanation of Determination of Significance 15
5.2 Impacts to Plant Communities 15
5.3 Impacts to Sensitive Plant Species 18
5.4 Impacts to Sensitive Animal Species 18
5.5 Summary of Significant Direct and Indirect Impacts 19
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• TABLE OF CONTENTS (continued)
• Section Page
I 6.0 RECOMMENDED MITIGATION MEASURES 19
6.1 Subregional Planning Context 19
6.2 Mitigation Measures 20
• 7.0 ACKNOWLEDGMENTS 20
• 8.0 LITERATURE CITED 20
• LIST OF FIGURES
• Figure 1 Regional Map 4
Figure 2 Vicinity Map 5
_ Figure 3 Biological Resources Map with Proposed Grading 7
I LIST OF TABLES
Table 1 Acreages by Habitat Type .............................. 6
Table 2 Impact and Open Space Acreage for the Dove Lane Property ........ 17
LIST OF APPENDICES
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A. Vascular Plant Species Observed on the Project Site
I B. Wildlife Species Observed or Detected on the Project Site
C. Species Sensitivity Categories
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Biology Report for the Poinsettia Lane Alignment in Zone 21
SUMMARY OF FINDINGS
The Poinsettia Lane alignment located within Zone 21 is an approximately 21-acre area that
traverses the area from Aviara Phase 2 to El Camino Real, City of Carlsbad in the western
portion of San Diego County, California. The area is located west of El Camino Real, south
of Camino Vida Roble, east of the Aviara development and north of Aviara Parkway. The area
is surrounded by agriculture, open space/native habitat and some areas of residential
development. Topographically, most of the site consists of moderate to steep slopes with a major
drainage, some agricultural/greenhouse use and contains a portion of one residences. The
elevations onsite vary from about 190 to 270 feet above mean sea level. Most of the western
portion of the survey area is represented by slopes leading to a drainage containing oak riparian
habitat. The slopes containing native habitat both east and west of the Lohf property are
primarily composed of chaparral vegetation. Based on species composition and general
physiognomy, five plant communities or habitat types were identified onsite: southern mixed
chaparral (<0.1 acre), southern maritime chaparral (7.9 acres), coastal sage scrub (0.1 acre),
southern coast live oak riparian forest (1.2 acres), and disturbed/developed habitat (12.0 acres).
One species of plant listed as endangered by the California Department of Fish and Game
(CDFG) and proposed for listing as endangered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS)
was detected onsite: Del Mar manzanita (Arctostaphylos glandulosa ssp. crassifolia). One
additional plant species considered sensitive by various resource agencies also were observed:
Nuttall's scrub oak (Quercus dumosa).
No animal species listed as rare, threatened, or endangered by the USFWS or CDFG were
observed onsite. No species formerly recognized as a Category 2 candidates for listing by the
USFWS or recognized as sensitive by resource agencies were observed.
The majority of the site supports disturbed/developed habitat which would not be considered
sensitive by the resource agencies. However, native communities onsite, including southern
maritime chaparral, coastal sage scrub, and coast live oak riparian forest, are considered
sensitive and impacts to these vegetation communities are regulated by the resource agencies.
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Biology Report for the Poinsettia Lane Alignment in Zone 21
1.0 INTRODUCTION
The Poinsettia Lane alignment located within Zone 21 is an approximately 21-acre area that
traverses the area from Aviara Phase 2 to El Camino Real, City of Carlsbad in the western
portion of San Diego County, California. The alignment traverses approximately 1800 feet of
land from Aviara Phase 2 to the Lohf property. The alignment continues through the Lohf
property, for which a current biological technical report has been prepared (DUDEK, date), and
then continues for approximately 300 feet east of the eastern property boundary of the Lohf
property. The survey area is located west of El Camino Real, south of Camino Vida Roble,
east of the Aviara development and north of Aviara Parkway. The area is surrounded by
agriculture, open space/native habitat and some areas of residential development. Biological
surveys of the property were conducted in March, 1998, to assess the existing conditions of the
biological resources. The surveys augmented the existing data base accumulated through
previous survey work (e.g., SANDAG 1994). The purposes of this report are to describe the
biological character of the site in terms of vegetation, flora, wildlife, and wildlife habitats; and
analyze the biological significance of the site in view of federal, state, and local laws and
policies.
2.0 METHODS AND SURVEY LIMITATIONS
Data regarding biological resources present on the project site were obtained through a review
of pertinent literature and through field reconnaissance; both are described in detail below.
2.1 LITERATURE REVIEW
Sensitive biological resources present or potentially present onsite were identified through a
literature search using the following sources: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (1989,1990, 1991,
1993), California Department of Fish and Game (1980, 1986, 1987), California Native Plant
Society's Inventory of Rare and Endangered Vascular Plants (Skinner and Pavlik 1994), Murphy
(1990), and the vegetation and sensitive species mapping performed for the North County
Wildlife Forum's Multiple Habitat Conservation Program (SANDAG 1994). General
information regarding wildlife species present in the region was obtained from Unitt (1984) for
birds, Bond (1977) for mammals, and Stebbins (1985) for reptiles and amphibians.
2.2 FIELD RECONNAISSANCE
Biological surveys of the property were conducted by Dudek and Associates, Ing., biologist
Anita M. Hayworth, Ph.D., Sherri Miller, and Howie Wier during March and June, 1998. All
surveys were conducted by foot; the entire property was surveyed and inventoried for biotic
components.
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Biology Report for the Poinsettia Lane Alignment in Zone 21
2.2.1 Resource Mapping
Plant communities were mapped in the field directly onto a clear acetate on a 200-scale
(1"=200') aerial photograph of the area from Aerial Fotobank, flown 18 January 1997.
Vegetation boundaries and locations of sensitive species were transferred onto a 200-scale
topographic map of the site from Hunsaker and Associates. These boundaries and locations were
digitized by DUDEK CIS technician Martie demons using the ArcCadd system at DUDEK.
Plant community classifications used in this report follow Holland (1986), with modifications
to accommodate the lack of conformity of the observed communities to those of Holland.
Locations of rare or sensitive plant and wildlife species also were mapped, and the numbers
present were estimated.
2.2.2 Flora
All plant species encountered during the field surveys were identified and recorded. Those
species that could not be identified immediately were brought into the laboratory for further
investigation. Latin and common names of plants follow the Jepson Manual (Hickman 1993).
Where not listed in Hickman (1993), common names are taken from Beauchamp (1986) or
Abrams (1923). A list of plant species observed on the property is presented in Appendix A.
2.2.3 Fauna
Wildlife species detected during field surveys by sight, calls, tracks, scat, or other sign were
recorded. Binoculars (10 x 50 power) were used to aid in the identification of observed animals.
Records from previous biological studies and accounts from local residents also were consulted.
In addition to species actually observed, expected wildlife use of the site was determined by
known habitat preferences of local species and knowledge of their relative distributions in the
area. A list of wildlife species observed or detected onsite is presented in Appendix B.
Latin and common names of animals follow Stebbins (1985) for reptiles and amphibians,
American Ornithologists' Union (1983, 1989) for birds, Jones et al. (1992) for mammals.
2.2.4 Sensitive Biological Resources
Sensitive biological resources are those defined as follows: (1) species that have been given
special recognition by federal, state, or local conservation agencies and organizations due to
limited, declining, or threatened population sizes; (2) species and habitat types recognized by
local and regional resource agencies as sensitive; (3) habitat areas or plant communities that are
unique, are of relatively limited distribution, or are of particular value to wildlife; and 4)
wildlife corridors and habitat linkages.
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Biology Report for the Poinsettia Lane Alignment in Zone 21
During the field surveys a special effort was made to examine more thoroughly those areas
suspected to support sensitive resources. Considerably more time was spent in the chaparral
vegetation and in drainages onsite. A formal wetland delineation was conducted of the major
drainage that the roadway will traverse.
3.0 PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS
3.1 SITE DESCRIPTION
The Poinsettia Lane alignment is a 21.2-acre area situated within Zone 21 of the City of
Carlsbad in western San Diego County, California (Figure 1). It is bordered to the south by the
Aviara residential development and open space, and to the north, west, and east by undeveloped
areas, most of which contains native vegetation. The area lies approximately 3 miles east of
Interstate Highway 5 and about 1.3 miles north of La Costa Avenue, and 0.2 mile west of El
Camino Real. It is in the northeastern corner of the USGS 7.5 minute Encinitas quadrangle,
Sections 23 and 26, T.12S., R.4W. (Figure 2).
Topographically, most of the site consists of moderate to steep slopes with a major drainage,
some agricultural/greenhouse use and a portion of one residence. The elevations onsite vary
from about 190 to 270 feet above mean sea level. Most of the western portion of the survey
area is represented by slopes leading to a drainage containing oak riparian habitat. The slopes
containing native habitat both east and west of the Lohf property are primarily composed of
chaparral vegetation.The drainage forms an unnamed tributary of Batiquitos Lagoon, and
traverse the central portion of the survey area in a roughly southwest direction. The drainage
supports somewhat well developed oak riparian forest that extends offsite to the southwest but
terminates at the Aviara Development.
According to Bowman (1973), the following soils are present onsite: Huerhuero loam (HrD2),
Corralitos loamy sand (CsC), and Loamy alluvial land-Huerhuero complex (LvF3).
Soils of the Huerhuero series consist of moderately well drained loams that have a clay subsoil.
These soils developed in sandy marine sediments. Huerhuero loam (HrD2) occurs on 9 to 15
percent slopes. Because of moderate sheet erosion, the soil has an effective rooting depth of 20
to 40 inches. Loamy alluvial land consists of somewhat poorly drained, very deep, very dark
brown to black silt loams and sandy loams. Areas of this land were formerly wet meadows that
were subsequently drained by head cutting of gullies. The gullies eventually formed drainage
ditches and thus lowered the water table. The loamy alluvial land-Huerhuero complex occurs
on 9 to 50 percent slopes and occurs on old coastal ridges. The landscape is one of strongly
sloping to steep, severely eroded soils and alluvial fill along drainageways. Corralitos loamy
sand (CsC) consists of somewhat excessively drained, very deep loamy sands that formed in
alluvium derived from marine sandstone. The soil is moderately sloping at 5 to 9 percent slope.
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| Poinsettia Lane Alignment Within Zone 21 - Biological Resources Report & Impact Analysis
Vicinity Map
BASE MAP SOURCE: USGS 7.5 Minute Series, Encinitas Quadrangle
Poinsettia Lane Alignment Within Zone 21 - Biological Resources Report & Impact Analysis
Vicinity Map
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Biology Report for the Poinsettia Lane Alignment in Zone 21
4.0 RESULTS OF SURVEY
4.1 BOTANY - PLANT COMMUNITIES AND FLORAL DIVERSITY
Based on species composition and general physiognomy, five plant communities or habitat types
were identified onsite: southern mixed chaparral (< 0.1 acre), southern maritime chaparral (7.9
acres), coastal sage scrub (0.1 acre), southern coast live oak riparian forest (1.2 acres), and
disturbed/developed habitat (12.0 acres).
These habitat types are described below, their acreages are presented in Table 1, and their
spatial distribution is presented in Figure 3.
TABLE 1
ACREAGES BY HABITAT TYPE
Southern Mixed Chaparral < 0.1 acre
Southern Maritime Chaparral 7.9 acres
Southern Coast Live Oak Riparian Forest 1.2 acres
Coastal Sage Scrub 0.1 acres
Disturbed/developed Habitat 12.0 acres
TOTAL 21.2 acres
4.1.1 Southern Mixed Chaparral
Southern mixed chaparral is a drought- and fire-adapted community of woody shrubs, 1.5-3.0
meters tall, frequently forming dense, impenetrable stands. It develops primarily on mesic
north-facing slopes and in canyons, and is characterized by crown- or stump-sprouting species
that regenerate following burns or other ecological catastrophes. This association is typically
a mixture of chamise (Adenostoma fasciculatuni), mission manzanita (Xylococcus bicolof),
ceanothus (Ceanothus sp.), Nuttall's scrub oak (Quercus dumosa), laurel sumac (Malosma
laurind), and black sage.
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A small amount of southern mixed chaparral occurs onsite along the eastern, northern, and
western edges of the property. Much of the area mapped as southern mixed chaparral onsite is
dominated by chamise. There are also scattered individuals of mission manzanita, laurel sumac,
chamise, black sage (Salvia mellifera), and California sagebrush (Artemisia californica). A total
of less than 0.1 acre of southern mixed chaparral is present onsite. Due to the very small
Vegetation Types:
| SMC | Southern Maritime Chaparral
JSMXI Southern Mixed Chaparral
Sensitive Plant Species:
Ag Arctostaphylos glandulosa
Qd Quercus dumosa
NOTE: Numbers indicate individual plant
counts at that location.
ORF
DH
Coast Live Oak Riparian Forest
Disturbed Habitat
ACOE/CDFG Jurisdictions! Wetland
Dsi Soil Sampling Data Station
400'-wide Mapping Corridor
BASE TOPO/GRADING SOURCE: Hunsoker it Associates. 1998
Poinsettia Lane Alignment Within Zone 21- Biological Resources Report & Impact Analysis
Biological Resources & Jurisdictional Wetland Map With Proposed Road Grading
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Biology Report for the Poinsettia Lane Alignment in Zone 21
amount present within the study area, the amount has not been included in the total acreage for
the study area.
4.1.2 Southern Maritime Chaparral
Southern maritime chaparral is similar to southern mixed chaparral but is restricted to coastal
localities within the fog belt and typically develops on sandstone soils. This community is
characterized by several shrubs of limited distribution, including Del Mar manzanita
(Arctostaphylos glandulosa var. crassifolia), wart-stemmed ceanothus (Ceanothus verrucosus),
coast spicebush (Cneoridium dumosuni), and Nuttall's scrub oak (Quercus dumosd). Other
shrubs encountered frequently in this community are chamise, lemonadeberry, laurel sumac,
toy on, and summer-holly. There is some question regarding the definition of this community,
and considerable disagreement exists among those who map plant communities. For purposes
of this study, any mixed chaparral community that had Del Mar manzanita as one of the shrub
components was included in this category. Patches of chaparral in which Nuttall's scrub oak
occurs, contained no other species characteristic of this community and did not occupy sandstone
soils; hence, these were considered southern mixed chaparral. Likewise, although scrub oak is
considered characteristic of southern maritime chaparral, the presence of scrub oak alone was
not considered diagnostic for this community.
Within the property, the full complement of southern maritime chaparral species is found in this
community. Southern maritime chaparral, 7.9 acres, has a limited distribution on the property;
it is restricted to the southwestern portion of the study area.
Southern maritime chaparral is recognized as a sensitive plant community owing to its limited
distribution and depleted nature. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service recently reviewed a
proposal to list as endangered six plant species characteristic of this community; among these,
Del Mar manzanita and Del Mar Mesa sand-aster were proposed as endangered.
4.1.3 Southern Coast Live Oak Riparian Forest
Southern coast live oak riparian forest is an open to locally dense evergreen sclerophyllous
riparian woodland dominated by coast live oak (Quercus agrifolia). According to Holland
(1986) it is richer in herbs and poorer in understory shrubs than other riparian communities.
It typically occurs in bottomlands and outer floodplains along larger streams, on fine grained,
rich alluvium.
Onsite this community is represented by a band of coast live oak, a total of 1.2 acres, with
scattered individuals of arroyo willow, and an understory that includes poison-oak
(Toxicodendron diversilobuni), California rose (Rosa californica), mugwort (Artemisia
douglasiand), and several annuals.
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Biology Report for the Poinsettia Lane Alignment in Zone 21
Riparian habitats such as southern coast live oak riparian forest and southern willow scrub
represent high quality wildlife habitat, providing structural diversity and water during much of
the year. They are important sites of primary productivity and play a vital role in nutrient
recycling and maintenance of water quality. Many species of animals that are resident hi
adjacent scrub habitat forage in riparian areas during the drier tunes of the year.
4.1.5. Coastal Sage Scrub Habitat
Coastal sage scrub is a native plant community composed of a variety of soft, low, aromatic
shrubs, characteristically dominated by drought-deciduous species such as California sagebrush
(Artemisia californica), flat-top buckwheat (Eriogonumfasciculatwri), and sages (Salvia spp.),
with scattered evergreen shrubs, including lemonadeberry (Rhus integrifolid), laurel sumac
(Malosma laurind), and toyon (Heteromeles arbutifolia). It typically develops on south-facing
slopes and other xeric situations. A very small amount of coastal sage scrub habitat occurs
within the study area, 0.1 acre, at the eastern end of the proposed alignment, near El Camino
Real.
4.1.5 Disturbed/Developed Habitat
Disturbed habitat refers to areas that lack vegetation entirely. These areas generally are the
result of severe or repeated mechanical perturbation. Developed land refers to areas that include
homes, yards, ornamental landscaping, corrals, and other highly modified lands that support
structures, land use, or vegetation associated with dwellings. Within the property,
disturbed/developed habitat includes dirt roads, trails, plowed land, residential dwellings and
outbuildings, and ornamental landscape. A total of 12.0 acres of disturbed/developed habitat
is present onsite.
4.1.6 Floral Diversity
A total of 67 species of vascular plants - 44 native species (66 percent) and 23 non-native (34
percent) - was recorded from the site (Appendix A).
4.2 ZOOLOGY - WILDLIFE DIVERSITY
4.2.1 Birds
Twenty-two (22) species of birds were observed during the recent survey work (se,e Appendix
B). The avifauna is comprised of a moderately diverse assemblage of species associated with
coastal sage scrub and chaparral. The most commonly observed species include California quail
(Callipepla californica), mourning dove (Zenaida macrourd), Anna's hummingbird (Calypte
anna), common raven (Corvus corax), wrentit (Chamaea fasciatd), California thrasher
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Biology Report for the Poinsettia Lane Alignment in Zone 21
(Toxostoma redivivum), rufous-sided towhee (Pipilo erythrophthalmus), and California towhee
(Pipilo crissalis).
4.2.2 Reptiles and Amphibians
Two species of reptiles were observed onsite, including side-blotched lizard (Ufa stansburiand)
and Great Basin fence lizard (Sceloporus occidentalis). Other reptiles common in the area and
likely to occur onsite include southern alligator lizard (Gerrhonotus multicarinatus webbii),
coastal western whiptail (Cnemidophorus tigris multiscutatus), San Diego horned lizard
(Phrynosoma coronata blainvillei), orange-throated whiptail (Cnemidophorus hyperythrus),
gopher snake (Pituophis melanoleucus), northern red-diamond rattlesnake (Crotalus ruber ruber),
and common kingsnake (Lampropeltis getulus). No amphibians were observed onsite.
4.2.3 Mammals
Four species of mammals were recorded from the site, including cottontail rabbit (Sylvilagus
sp.), California ground squirrel (Spermophilus beecheyi), woodrat (Neotoma sp.), coyote (Canis
latrans). Other mammal species likely to be present include striped skunk (Mephitis mephitis),
Virginia opossum (Didelphis virginica), and raccoon (Procyon lotof).
4.3 SENSITIVE BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES
The following resources are discussed in this section: (1) plant and animal species present in
the project vicinity that are given special recognition by federal, state, or local conservation
agencies and organizations owing to declining, limited, or threatened populations, that are the
results, in most cases, of habitat reduction; and (2) habitat areas that are unique, are of relatively
limited distribution, or are of particular value to wildlife. Sources used for determination of
sensitive biological resources are as follows: wildlife ~ U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
(USFWS 1989, 1991), California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG 1980, 1986), Remsen
(1978), Everett (1979), McGurty (1980), and Murphy (1990); plants - USFWS (1990, 1993),
CDFG (1987), and Skinner and Pavlik (1994); and habitats - Holland (1986).
4.3.1 Sensitive Plant Species
One species of plant listed as endangered by the California Department of Fish and Game
(CDFG) and proposed for listing as endangered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS)
was detected onsite: Del Mar manzanita (Arctostaphylos glandulosa ssp. crassifolid). One
additional plant species considered sensitive by various resource agencies also was observed:
Nuttall's scrub oak (Quercus dumosd). These species are discussed below and their locations
are illustrated in the biological resources map (Figure 3). The listing authorities and explanation
of listing categories are presented in Appendix C. Although the USFWS recently eliminated its
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Biology Report for the Poinsettia Lane Alignment in Zone 21
Category 2 candidate (C2) status, these are retained below because C2 species currently are
under further review.
Arctostaphylos glandulosa ssp. crassifolia - Del Mar manzanita
USFWS: Endangered
CDFG: None
CNPS: List IB, 3-3-2
Del Mar manzanita represents the coastal form of San Diego County's common burl-forming
manzanita, and it is one of several sensitive plants that are indicators of the unique and depleted
southern maritime chaparral habitat. In his recent treatment of Arctostaphylos in the Jepson
Manual (Hickman 1993), Wells considers ssp. crassifolia as a valid taxon representing those
populations in coastal San Diego County and adjacent northern Baja California.
Within the proposed alignment, Del Mar manzanita typically occurs in small localized patches
within southern maritime chaparral. It is concentrated in the area near the oak riparian forest
habitat. Approximately 20 individuals are present in the proposed alignment.
Quercus dumosa - Nuttall's scrub oak
USFWS: former Category 2 candidate
CDFG: None
CNPS: List IB, 2-3-2
It was proposed (Hickman 1993) that the common, widespread species formerly known as scrub
oak (Quercus dumosa) actually represents two closely related species — Nuttall's scrub oak
(Quercus dumosa) and "interior" scrub oak (Quercus berberidifolia). Although interior scrub
oak is widely distributed throughout southern California in chaparral habitats, Nuttall's scrub oak
is restricted to the narrow coastal strip, and hence, has been severely affected by development.
This species was one of eight native plants included in a "southern maritime chaparral listing
package" circulated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in 1993.
Nuttall's scrub oak occurs as scattered individuals within the southern maritime chaparral
habitats onsite. Approximately 12 individuals were observed and it is likely that more
individuals are present within the dense vegetation.
4.3.2 Sensitive Wildlife Species
No animal species listed as rare, threatened, or endangered by the USFWS or CDFG were
observed onsite. No species formerly recognized as the former Category 2 candidates for
listing by the USFWS or recognized as sensitive by resource agencies were observed. The
listing authorities and explanation of listing categories are presented in Appendix C.
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Biology Report for the Poinsettia Lane Alignment in Zone 21
4.3.3 Sensitive Habitats
Sensitive habitats are those that are considered rare within the region, support sensitive plant
and/or wildlife species, or function as corridors for wildlife movement. Habitat types found
onsite that are considered sensitive include southern maritime chaparral, coastal sage scrub, and
southern coast live oak riparian forest.
4.3.4 Wildlife Corridors and Habitat Linkages
Wildlife corridors are linear features that connect large patches of natural open space and
provide avenues for the immigration and emigration of animals. Wildlife corridors contribute
to population viability in several ways: (1) they assure the continual exchange of genes between
populations which helps maintain genetic diversity; (2) they provide access to adjacent habitat
areas representing additional territory for foraging and mating; (3) they allow for a greater
carrying capacity; and (4) they provide routes for colonization of habitat lands following local
populations extinctions or habitat recovery from ecological catastrophes (e.g., fires).
Habitat .linkages are patches of native habitat that function to join two larger patches of habitat.
They serve as connections between habitat patches and help reduce the adverse affects of habitat
fragmentation. Although individual animals may not move through a habitat linkage, the linkage
does represent a potential route for gene flow and long-term dispersal. Habitat linkages may
serve as both habitat and avenues of gene flow for small animals such as reptiles and
amphibians. Habitat linkages may be represented by continuous patches of habitat or by nearby
habitat "islands" that function as "stepping stones" for dispersal.
A habitat linkage/wildlife corridor extends through the site predominantly within the oak riparian
forest and the surrounding patches of southern maritime chaparral, within the Zone 21 area. A
potential linkage also is present as a narrow band of native habitat along the eastern portion of
the alignment adjacent to El Camino Real.
4.4 DELINEATION OF WETLANDS AND "WATERS OF THE U.S."
The purposes of this delineation are to determine the boundaries of ACOE and CDFG
jurisdiction within the project site and to determine what permits or approvals would be required
prior to disturbance of all or a parts of the jurisdictional areas within the proposed .project site.
For the purposes of this wetland determination and impact assessment, the survey area for the
project was the entire 21.2-acre survey area.
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4.4.1 Methods
A wetland determination was conducted as a separate task by Sherri Miller, a certified wetland
delineator. During the survey, notes were taken on the plant communities present, and
boundaries of wetland communities and waters of the U.S. were mapped on a 200-scale (1" =
200') aerial photograph and (1" = 200') topographic map of the site.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual (1987) was used to determine
whether jurisdictional wetlands occurred within the study area. The manual requires that
positive indicators of hydric soils, wetland hydrology, and hydrophytic vegetation all be present
to classify an area as a jurisdictional wetland. Other "waters of the United States," as defined
by the ordinary high water mark of streams or drainages, also were identified and mapped in
the field.
Typically, where a predominance of hydrophytic vegetation is present, additional data on soils
and hydrology are collected, and a wetland data form is completed. However, owing to the
presence of distinct topographic changes between upland habitats and the incised wetland
channels/floodplains (indicating U.S. waters) and the observation of well-defined indicators of
the ordinary high water mark along channel banks in all areas dominated by hydrophytic
vegetation, no soil pits were excavated and one data form was completed. To determine whether
specific plant communities meet the hydrophytic vegetation criterion, the dominant species are
listed along with their wetland indicator status from the National List of Plant Species That
Occur in Wetlands: Region 0 (Reed 1988). If 50% or more of the dominant plant species at a
specific site are categorized as obligate wetland, facultative wetland, or facultative, as described
in the list, the site is determine to meet the hydrophytic vegetation criterion.
When determining whether hydric soils are present, a pit usually is dug to a depth of 16 inches.
The texture, moisture content, and color of the soil are noted for each pit. The soil survey for
San Diego County (Bowman 1973) was reviewed to determine mapped soil types. The National
List of Hydric Soils also was reviewed to determine if mapped soil series occurred on the list.
The definition applied by the CDFG to determine the presence of wetlands is less objective than
that of the ACOE. Per CDFG, wetlands are defined as "a body of water that flows at least
periodically or intermittently through a bed or channel having banks and supports fish or other
aquatic life." "This includes water courses having a surface or subsurface flow that supports
riparian vegetation." Any area that met these criteria also was identified and mapped.
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4.4.2 Results
GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF WETLAND HABITAT
Areas under the jurisdiction of the ACOE and/or the CDFG are illustrated in Figure 3.
Jurisdictional areas onsite include the oak riparian forest in the central portion of the survey
area. The wetland habitats (oak riparian forest) are described above in Section 4.1.
WETLAND DETERMINATION
ACOE Jurisdiction
A total of 1.2 acres of ACOE Jurisdictional wetlands are present onsite composed of oak
riparian forest.
CDFG Jurisdiction
CDFG jurisdiction was calculated based upon the area of riparian vegetation or channel located
within the survey area. Thus a total of 1.2 acres of CDFG Jurisdictional habitat are present
onsite.
WETLAND FUNCTIONS AND VALUES
Wetland habitat within the study area is expected to have a moderate value as wildlife habitat
owing to the presence of patches of riparian habitat. The drainage has seasonally flowing waters
and may have numerous abiotic functions, such as removal of toxic material form the water,
nutrient recycling, etc. Birds species observed most commonly include house finch (Carpodacus
mexicanus), mourning dove (Zenaida macroura), scrub jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens), Anna's
hummingbird (Calypte anna), common raven (Corvus corax), and California towhee (Pipilo
crissalis).
No species of mammals were detected within the vicinity of the drainage. Mammals likely to
be present include those species adapted to disturbed or urbanized landscapes, including Virginia
opossum (Didelphis virginica), cottontail (Sylvilagus sp.), striped skunk (Mephitis mephitis),
California ground squirrel (Spermophilus beecheyi), and introduced rats (Rattus sp.).
4.5 REGIONAL RESOURCE PLANNING CONTEXT
In San Diego County, three major, coordinated conservation planning efforts currently are in
progress with the long-term goal of identifying a system of preserves that will protect native
habitat lands and their associated biota. The three efforts are (1) the City of San Diego's
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Multiple Species Conservation Program (MSCP), administered by the Metropolitan Wastewater
Department, focused on biological resource planning for the southwestern one-fourth of the
County; (2) the San Diego Association of Government's (SANDAG) Multiple Habitat
Conservation Program (MHCP), funded by a consortium of jurisdictions in northern San Diego
County known as the North County Wildlife Forum, focusing on the northwestern one-fourth
of the County; and (3) the County of San Diego Open Space Plan, which focuses on the portion
of the County east of the MSCP and MHCP study areas. The ultimate goal of these plans is the
establishment of biological reserve areas in conformance with the State of California's Natural
Community Conservation Program (NCCP). These programs are moving forward under the
regulatory influence of the 4(d) Rule pursuant to the Endangered Species Act, which allows for
the interim loss of 5 % of existing coastal sage scrub until the preserves (NCCPs) are formalized.
The most important biological feature of the Poinsettia Lane alignment is the oak riparian forest
habitat within the patch of southern maritime chaparral habitat. This drainage may provide
wildlife movement through the area and the maritime chaparral habitat contains the federally
listed endangered plant species Del Mar manzanita.
To maintain connection for wildlife species from one side of Poinsettia Lane to the other within
the riparian habitat, a wildlife crossing is needed. The ultimate design of the roadway should
incorporate a wildlife crossing to provide connection within the exiting riparian corridor.
5.0 ANTICIPATED PROJECT IMPACTS
This section addresses potential impacts to biological resources that would result from
implementation of the proposed project, and provides analyses of significance for each potential
impact. Impacts were quantified by overlaying the limits of project grading on the biological
resources map of the site (Figure 4). For purposes of this assessment, all biological resources
within the limits of grading for development are considered 100 percent lost.
Impacts to biological resources can be direct - resulting from the permanent removal of habitat,
or indirect - resulting from changes in land use adjacent to natural habitat (e.g., increased light,
noise, and urban runoff, interruption of wildlife movement, etc.). Both of these types of impacts
and their levels of significance are discussed in this section.
5.1 EXPLANATION OF DETERMINATION OF SIGNIFICANCE
For this section, the following criteria are used to determine the significance of an impact:
Substantial effect on a rare or endangered species plant or animal or habitat of
that species is considered a significant impact.
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| - Substantial interference with the movement of any resident or migratory fish or
wildlife species is considered a significant impact.
I - Substantial reduction of habitat for fish, wildlife, or plants is considered a
significant impact.
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5.2 IMPACTS TO PLANT COMMUNITIES
Direct Impacts
Implementation of the proposed project would result in the direct loss of 9.5 acres (see Table
2), including impacts to the following habitat types:
0.0 acre of coastal sage scrub — less than significant
™ -3.7 acres of southern maritime chaparral - significant
• 0.6 acre of southern coast live oak riparian forest, jurisdictional wetland ~
significant
• — 5.2 acres of disturbed/developed habitat — less than significant.
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• TABLE 2
§ IMPACT AND OPEN SPACE ACREAGE FOR THE POINSETTIA LANE
ALIGNMENT WITHIN ZONE 21
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Direct Impact
I Coastal Sage Scrub 0.0 acres
Southern Maritime Chaparral 3.7 acres
Southern Coast Live Oak Riparian Forest 0.6 acres
• Disturbed/developed Habitat 5.2 acres
TOTAL 9.5 acres
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Indirect Impacts
Indirect impacts from the proposed development include the following:
— Reduction in carrying capacity of adjacent native habitats as a result of noise and
lighting associated with development.
— Inadvertent potential increase of feral rat, cat, and other small predator populations
in native habitats adjacent to proposed development areas.
These impacts probably are most severe within the first 50 feet of development. Because the
I first 50 feet already is considered 100 percent impacted from the brush management zones, and
indirect impacts from these sources are minimal beyond 50 feet, these impacts are consider less
than significant. Nonetheless certain measures should be implemented to inhibit additional
• indirect impacts. These are discussed below under mitigation.
5.3 IMPACTS TO SENSITIVE PLANTS
I Direct Impacts
Implementation of the proposed project would result in the direct loss of the following sensitive
plant species:I
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I — Approximately 16 individuals Del Mar manzanita (Arctostaphylos glandulosa var.
crassifolius) - significant
- Approximately 6 individuals of Nuttall's scrub oak (Quercus dumosa) - less than
significant
| Although Nuttall's scrub oak will be directly affected by the proposed project, the impact is
considered less than significant due to the overall low status and small amount of each of these
I plant species affected. Additionally, it is expected that additional amounts of each of this plant
species is present within the area.
• Indirect Impacts
Indirect impacts may result in the intrusion of non-native plant species within the first 50 feet
• of the proposed development. However, due to the density of the habitat and high percent cover
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by native plant species, this intrusion will probably be negligible. These indirect impacts are
considered less than significant.
5.4 IMPACTS TO SENSITIVE ANIMALS
Direct Impacts
No impacts would occur to sensitive animal species.
Indirect Impacts
Indirect impacts may result in the reduction of the carrying capacity of the southern maritime
chaparral plant community, however, the patch of habitat onsite is connected to additional habitat
offsite. These indirect impacts are considered less than significant.
5.5 JURISDICTIONAL WETLAND/WATERS IMPACTS
A limited amount of impacts to wetlands would result from the implementation of the project
(Figure 3). Although most of the wetland areas are avoided due to the design of the project the
project .would encroach into limited jurisdictional area and patches of riparian habitat in the
central portion of the property.
5.5.1 ACOE Impacts
Approximately 0.6 acre of ACOE jurisdictional area would be permanently lost by project
implementation. The area is represented by 0.6 acre of oak riparian forest.
5.5.2 CDFG Impacts
Approximately 0.6 acre of CDFG jurisdictional wetlands would be permanently lost by project
implementation. The area is represented by the oak riparian forest.
5.5.3 Regulatory Requirements
The discharge of dredge or fill material (temporary or permanently) into areas delineated as
"waters of the United States" requires authorization from the ACOE pursuant to Section 404 of
the Clean Water Act. "Waters of the U.S." as defined in CFR 328.2 includes all waters or
tributaries to waters, including wetlands, streams, dry washes, seasonal drainages, and other
aquatic habitats. Activities that involve regulated discharge of dredge or fill material include
grading, placing of riprap for erosion control, pouring concrete, laying sod, and stockpiling
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excavated material. Activities that generally do not involve regulated discharge, if performed
in a manner to avoid discharge, include driving pilings and some methods of vegetation clearing.
Total ACOE jurisdiction to be impacted is 0.6 acre. The ACOE has 36 nationwide or general
permits (NWPs) that pre-authorize specific minor discharges. Generally, use of these NWPs
does not require review by the ACOE or other federal agencies. If endangered species or
significant cultural resources occur on the property and are not adequately mitigated, the activity
is not considered pre-authorized and ACOE has the discretionary authority to require an
individual permit. Because the impact is greater than 1/3 acre and the area contains endangered
species, it is likely an individual permit will be required. The individual permit process involves
public comment on the proposed activity and can last 180 days or longer. Because impacts to
ACOE jurisdiction would be associated with impacts to a federally-listed species, and the project
impacts more than 1/3 acre of wetland, coordination with ACOE is necessary and an individual
permit may be required.
The applicant must obtain a Section 401 water quality certification (or waiver) from the
California Regional Water Quality Control Board, and the ACOE should be notified in writing
for concurrence that the proposed fill is authorized.
CDFG jurisdiction to be impacted within the study area is 0.6 acre. The CDFG defines a stream
as "a body of water that flows at least periodically or intermittently through a bed or channel
having banks and supports fish or other aquatic life. This includes water courses having a
surface or subsurface flow that supports riparian vegetation." A CDFG 1603 agreement will be
required prior to any alteration of the wetland within CDFG jurisdiction. An application for a
1603 agreement can occur only after an environmental impact report or negative declaration has
been certified or under a categorical exemption. The CDFG generally requires that any impacts
to streambeds or adjacent riparian habitats be fully mitigated at a ratio of a minimum of 1:1, and
more usually 3:1, by area. A streambed alteration application must be submitted to CDFG. It
normally takes 30 days for the CDFG to process a 1603 application.
5.6 SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT DIRECT AND INDIRECT IMPACTS
The following impacts associated with implementation of the proposed development plan are
considered significant:
a) Loss of 3.7 acres of southern maritime chaparral.
b) Loss of 0.6 acre of oak riparian forest/jurisdictional wetland,
b) Loss of 13 individuals of Del Mar manzanita.
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Biology Report for the Poinsettia Lane Alignment in Zone 21
6.0 RECOMMENDED MITIGATION MEASURES
The mitigation measures presented below are based on the analysis outlined above. The impacts
that require mitigation are the loss of southern maritime chaparral, loss of oak riparian
forest/jurisdictional wetland, and Del Mar manzanita.
6.1 SUBREGIONAL PLANNING CONTEXT
In a regional context, the sensitive biological resources present within the Poinsettia Lane
alignment are regionally important due to the limited distribution of southern maritime chaparral
habitat and the connectivity of the southern maritime chaparral habitat onsite with additional
habitat off site as well as the wildlife corridor present within the drainage.
6.2 MITIGATION MEASURES
The project will require mitigation for direct impacts to southern maritime chaparral and the
sensitive plant species that occur within this habitat. Due to the presence of sensitive plant
species within the southern maritime chaparral habitat and the limited distribution of this habitat
type, it is likely that mitigation will be required at a 2:1 ratio. The project will also require
mitigation for the impact to the jurisdictional wetland/oak riparian forest. Typically, impacts
to the wetland habitats require mitigation at a 3:1 ratio by creation of new habitat.
7.0 ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
This report was prepared by DUDEK biologist Anita M. Hay worth, Ph.D. Graphics were
provided by Martie A. demons; Tonette S. Foster provided word processing assistance.
8.0 LITERATURE CITED
Abrams, L. 1923. Illustrated flora of the Pacific States. Stanford University Press, Stanford,
California.
American Ornithologists' Union. 1983. The Check-list of North American Birds, 6th edition.
Allen Press, Lawrence, Kansas.
American Ornithologists' Union. 1989. Thirty-seventh Supplement to the American
Ornithologists' Union Check-List of North American Birds. The Auk 106:332-538.
Atwood, J. L. 1990. Status review of the California gnatcatcher (Polioptila californicd).
Unpublished technical report, Manomet Bird Observatory, Manomet, Massachusetts. 79
pp.
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Beauchamp, R. M. 1986. A flora of San Diego County, California. Sweetwater Press,
National City, California. 241 pp.
Bond, S. I. 1977. An annotated list of the mammals of San Diego County, California. Trans.
San Diego Soc. Nat. Hist. 18: 229-248.
Bowman, R. H. 1973. Soil Survey, San Diego Area, California, Part 1. United States
Department of the Agriculture. 104 pp. + appendices.
Bury, B. 1971. Status report on California's threatened amphibians and reptiles. California
Department of Fish and Game, Inland Fisheries Administrative Report #72-2.
California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG). 1980. At the Crossroads: A Report on the
Status of California's Endangered and Rare Fish and Wildlife. State of California
Resources Agency, Sacramento. California.
California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG). 1986. Endangered, Rare, and Threatened
Animals of California. State of California Resources Agency, Sacramento, California.
California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG). 1987. Designated Endangered or Rare
Plants. Summary list from Section 1904 Fish and Game Code (Native Plant Protection
Act). State of California Resources Agency, Sacramento, California.
Everett, W. T. 1979. Sensitive, threatened and declining bird species of San Diego County.
San Diego Audubon Society Sketches 29:2-3.
Grinnell, J. and A. Miller. 1944. The distribution of the birds of California. Pacific Coast
Avifauna 27: 1-608.
Hickman, J. C. 1993. The Jepson manual: Higher plants of California. University of
California Press, Berkeley. 1400 pp.
Holland, R. F. 1986. Preliminary descriptions of the terrestrial natural communities of
California. Nongame-Heritage Program, California Department of Fish and Game. 156
pp.
Jones, J. K., Jr., D. C. Carter, H. H. Genoways, R. S. Hoffman, and D. W. Rice. 1992.
Revised Checklist of North American Mammals North of Mexico. Occasional Papers
of the Museum of Texas Tech University, no. 143.
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McGurty, B. M. 1980. Survey and status of endangered and threatened species of reptiles
natively occurring in San Diego, California. San Diego Herpetological Society.
Munz, P. 1974. A flora of Southern California. University of California Press, Berkeley,
California. 1086 pp.
Remsen, J. V. 1978. Bird species of special concern in California: An annotated list of
declining or vulnerable bird species. Administrative Report No. 78-1. Nongame
Wildlife Investigations, Wildlife Management Branch, California Department of Fish and
Game.
SANDAG (San Diego Association of Governments). 1994. Vegetation and sensitive species
maps prepared for the North County Wildlife Forum.
Skinner, M. W. and B. M. Pavlik. 1994. California Native Plant Society's Inventory of
Rare and Endangered Vascular Plants of California. Special Publication No. 1 (5th
Edition), California Native Plant Society, Sacramento, California. 338 pp.
Smith, J. P., Jr., and K. Berg. 1988. California Native Plant Society's Inventory of Rare and
Endangered Vascular Plants of California. Special Publication No. 1 (4th Edition),
California Native Plant Society, Sacramento, California. 168 pp.
Stebbins, R. C. 1985. A field guide to western reptiles and amphibians. Houghton Mifflin
Co., Boston, Mass.
Stewart, G. R. 1971. Rare, endangered, and depleted amphibians and reptiles in California.
Herpetology 5:29-35.
United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 1989. Federal Register, Part 4, Endangered
and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Animal Notice of Review. 50 CFR Part 17.
Department of the Interior.
United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 1990. Federal Register, Part 4, Endangered
and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Review of Plant Taxa for Listing as Endangered or
Threatened Species, Notice of Review. 50 CFR Part 17. Department of the Interior.
United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 1991. Federal Register, Part 8, .Endangered
and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Animal Candidate Review for Listing as Endangered
or Threatened Species, Proposed Rule. 50 CFR Part 17. Department of the Interior.
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| United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 1993. Federal Register, Part 8, Endangered
and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Review of Plant Taxa for Listing as Endangered or
• Threatened Species. 50 CFR Part 17. Vol. 58. No. 188. Department of the Interior.
Unitt, P. A. 1984. Birds of San Diego County. Memoir 13, San Diego Society of Natural
• History. 287 pp.
Wiggins, I. L. 1980. A flora of Baja California. Stanford University Press. 1025 pp.
• Willet, G. 1933. Revised list of birds of southwestern California. Pacific Coast Avifauna
21:1-204.
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APPENDICES
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APPENDIX A
VASCULAR PLANT SPECIES OBSERVED
ON THE PROJECT SITE
SELAGINELLALES
ANGIOSPERMAE (DICOTYLEDONES)
AIZOACEAE - CARPET-WEED FAMILY
* Carpodbrotus edulis - Hottentot-fig
ANACARDIACEAE - SUMAC FAMILY
Malosma laurina - laurel sumac
Rhus integrifolia - lemonadeberry
Toxicodendron diversilobum - poison-oak
APIACEAE - CARROT FAMILY
* Foeniculum vulgare - sweet fennel
ASCLEPIADACEAE - MILKWEED FAMILY
Asclepias fascicularis - narrow-leaf milkweed
ASTERACEAE - SUNFLOWER FAMILY
Ambrosia psilostachya - western ragweed
Artemisia californica - coastal sagebrush
Artemisia douglasiana - mugwort
Baccharis pilularis - coyotebush
* Carduus pycnocephalus - Italian thistle
* Centaurea melitensis - tocalote
Cirsium occidentale - California thistle
Eriophyllum confertiflorum - golden-yarrow
Gnaphalium canescens - everlasting
Hazardia squarrosus - saw-toothed goldenbush
Hemizonia fasciculata - fascicled tarweed
Heterotheca grandiflora - telegraph weed
Isocoma menziesii - coastal goldenbush
* Lactuca serriola - prickly lettuce
BORAGINACEAE - BORAGE FAMILY
Cryptantha intermedia - common popcorn flower
BRASSICACEAE - MUSTARD FAMILY
* Brassica nigra - black mustard
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* Raphanus sativus - wild radish
I CACTACEAE - CACTUS FAMILY
Opuntia littoralis - coast prickly-pear
I CAPPARACEAE - CAPER FAMILY
Isomeris arborea - bladder-pod
• CAPRIFOLIACEAE - HONEYSUCKLE FAMILY
Sambucus mexicanus - Mexican elderberry
• CHENOPODIACEAE - GOOSEFOOT FAMILY
* Salsola tragus - Russian-thistle
• CISTACEAE - ROCK-ROSE FAMILY
_ Helianthemum scoparium - rush-rose
CONVOLVULACEAE - MORNING-GLORY FAMILY
. Calystegia macrostegia - morning-glory
CUCURBITACEAE - GOURD FAMILY
« Marah macrocarpa - manroot
ERICACEAE - HEATH FAMILY
I Arctostaphylos glandulosa ssp. crassifolia - Del Mar Manzanita
Xylococcus bicolor - mission manzanita
EUPHORBIACEAE - EUPHORB FAMILY
Ricinus communis - castor-bean
FABACEAE - PEA FAMILY
* Acacia melanoxylon - blackwood acacia
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* Acacia bailey ana - acacia
• Lotus scoparius - deerweed
FAGACEAE - OAK FAMILY
I Quercus dumosa - Nuttall's scrub oak
Quercus agrifolia - coast live oak
• LAMIACEAE - MINT FAMILY
• * Marrubium vulgare - horehound
Salvia mellifera - black sage
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MALVACEAE - MALLOW FAMILY
• Malacothamnus fasciculatus - bush mallow
MYRTACEAE - MYRTLE FAMILY
• * Eucalyptus sp. - eucalyptus
POLYGONACEAE - BUCKWHEAT FAMILY
I Eriogonum fasciculatum - flat-top buckwheat
*
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* Rumex crispus - curly dock
PRIMULACEAE - PRIMROSE FAMILY
* Anagallis arvensis - scarlet pimpernel
• ROSACEAE - ROSE FAMILY
™ Adenostoma fasciculata - chamise
Heteromeles arbutifolia - toyon
• SALICACEAE - WILLOW FAMILY
Salix lasiolepis - arroyo willow
• SAURURACEAE - LIZARD-TAIL FAMILY
_ Anemopsis californica - yerba mansa
SCROPHULARIACEAE - FIGWORT FAMILY
. Mimulus aurantiacus - bush monkeyflower
SOLANACEAE - NIGHTSHADE FAMILY
I * Nicotiana glauca - tree tobacco
* Solanum douglasii - Douglas' nightshade
I ANGIOSPERMAE (MONOCOTYLEDONES)
LILIACEAE - LILY FAMILY
Bloomeria crocea - common golden-stars
• Chlorogalwn parviflorum - small-flowered soap-plant
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Yucca schidigera - Mojave yucca
POACEAE - GRASS FAMILY
* Avena barbata - slender wild oat
* Bromus diandrus - ripgut grass
* Bromus hordeaceus - soft chess
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* Bromus madritensis var. rubens - red brome
I * Cortaderia dioica - pampas grass
* Cynodon dactylon - Bermuda grass
Leymus condensatus - giant ryegrass
• Melica imperfecta - coast range melic
• * signifies introduced (non-native) species
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I WILDLIFE SPECIES OBSERVED OR
DETECTED ON THE PROJECT SITE
TERRESTRIAL VERTEBRATESI
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REPTILES AND AMPHIBIANS
IGUANIDAE - IGUANID LIZARDS
Scleroporus occidentalis - Great Basin fence lizard
Ufa stansburiana - side-blotched lizard
BIRDS
ACCIPITRIDAE - HAWKS
Buteo jamaicensis - red-tailed hawk
PHASIANIDAE - PHEASANTS & QUAILS
Callipepla californica - California quail
COLUMBIDAE - PIGEONS & DOVES
Zenaida macroura - mourning dove
TROCHILIDAE - HUMMINGBIRDS
Calypte anna - Anna's hummingbird
PICIDAE - WOODPECKERS
Colaptes auratus - northern flicker
Picoides nuttallii - Nuttall's woodpecker
TYRANNIDAE - TYRANT FLYCATCHERS
Sayornis nigricans - black phoebe
Tyrannus verticalis - western kingbird
CORVIDAE - JAYS & CROWS
Aphelocoma coerulescens - scrub jay
Corvus corax - common raven
Corvus brachyrhynchos - American crow
AEGITHALIDAE - BUSHTITS
Psaltriparus minimus - bushtit
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MIMIDAE - THRASHERS
I Toxostoma redivivum - California thrasher
Mimus polyglottos - northern mockingbird
I EMBERIZIDAE - WOOD WARBLERS, TANAGERS, BUNTINGS & BLACKBIRDS
Pipilo erythrophthalmus - rufous-sided towhee
Pipilo crissalis - California towhee
I Melospiza melodia - song sparrow
FRINGILLIDAE - FINCHESIcarpodacus mexicanus - house finch
/^"Vi»v/tiy»/i o n t*n1l-vin 1 a.c*no>t* rr/-*1/^-finr»l-»
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TROGLODYTIDAE - WRENS
Thryomanes bewickii - Bewick's wren
MUSCICAPIDAE - KINGLETS, GNATCATCHERS, THRUSHES & BABBLERS
Chamaea fasciata - wrentit
Carduelis psaltria - lesser goldfinch
MAMMALS
I LEPORIDAE - HARES & RABBITS
Sylvilagus sp. - cottontail rabbit
| SCIURIDAE - SQUIRRELS
Spermophilus beecheyi - California ground squirrel
CRICETIDAE - NEW WORLD RATS & MICE
Neotoma sp. - woodrat
CANIDAE - WOLVES & FOXES
Canis latrans - coyote
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APPENDIX C
SPECIES SENSITIVITY CATEGORIES
Federal (1993)
Endangered. Taxa threatened throughout all or a significant portion of their range.
Threatened. Taxa likely to become endangered in the foreseeable future.
Category 1. Taxa for which the USFWS currently has on file substantial information on
biological vulnerability and threat(s) to support the appropriateness of proposing to list them as
endangered or threatened species.
Category 2. Taxa for which information now in possession of the USFWS indicates that
proposing to list them as endangered or threatened is appropriate but for which substantial data
on biological vulnerability and threat(s) are not known or on file to support the immediate
preparation of rules.
Category 3. Taxa that were once considered for listing as endangered or threatened, but are
currently not receiving such consideration. These taxa are included in one of the following three
subcategories.
Subcategory 3A: Taxa presumed to be extinct.
Subcategory 3B: Taxa whose names do not meet the Endangered Species Act's
legal definition of species.
Subcategory 3C: Taxa now considered to be more widespread that originally
thought.
Note: The taxa in Categories 1 and 2 are candidates for possible addition to the list of
endangered and threatened species. The USFWS encourages their consideration in
environmental planning.
State of California (1990)
Endangered. Taxa which are in serious danger of becoming extinct throughout all, or a
significant portion, of their range due to one or more causes including loss of habitat, change
in habitat, over exploitation, predation, competition, or disease (Section 2062 of the Fish and
Game Code).
Threatened. Taxa which, although not presently threatened with extinction, are likely to become
endangered species in the foreseeable future (Section 2067 of the Fish and Game Code).
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APPENDIX C (continued)
Rare. Taxa which, although not presently threatened with extinction, are present in such small
numbers throughout their range that they may become endangered if the present environment
worsens (Section 1901 of the Fish and Game Code).
Candidate. Taxa which the Fish and Game Commission has formally noticed as being under
review by the Department in addition to the list of threatened and endangered species.
California Native Plant Society (1994)
Lists
1A: Presumed Extinct in California
IB: Rare or Endangered in California and Elsewhere
2: Rare or Endangered in California, More Common Elsewhere
3: Need More Information
4: Plants of Limited Distribution
Note: Plants on CNPS list IB meet California Department of Fish and Game Criteria for
Rare or Endangered listing.
R-E-D code
R (Rarity)
1- Rare, but found in sufficient numbers and distributed widely enough that the potential
for extinction or 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