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Home My WebLink AboutGPA 06-09; Muroya Subdivision; General Plan Amendment (GPA) (4)---- - -- - • • • • ·-• BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES TECHNICAL REPORT AND IMPACT ANALYSIS for the MUROYA PROPERTY CITY OF CARLSBAD, CALIFORNIA Prepared for: Taylor Morrison Services, Inc. IS Cushing Irvine, California 92618 Prepared by: DUDEK 605 Third Street Encinitas, California 92024 Tel. 760.942.5147 tL!JfJ~ Anita M. Hayworth, PhD, Senior Biologist FEBRUARY 2010 RECEIVED FEB 1 6 20to CITY OF CARLSBAD PLANNING DEPT • .. .. ... , - - - - .... .. Printed on 30% post-consumer recycled material. ---------------- Section Biological Resources Technical Report and Impact Analysis for the Muroya Property TABLE OF CONTENTS Page No. SUMMARY OF FINDINGS ....................................................................................................... iii 1.0 INTRODUCTION .............................................................................................................. l 2.0 METHODS AND SURVEY LIMITATIONS ................................................................. ! 2.1 Literature Review .................................................................................................... 1 2.2 Field Reconnaissance .............................................................................................. 1 2.2.1 Resource Mapping ....................................... · ............................................... 2 2.2.2 Flora ............................................................................................................ 3 2.2.3 Fauna ........................................................................................................... 3 2.2.4 Sensitive Biological Resources ................................................................... 3 2.3 Survey Limitations .................................................................................................. 4 • 3.0 PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS ......•.............•..•.....•••.••.••••..•.•.•.•......•.••.•.........•...•.•...• 4 -3.1 Site Description ....................................................................................................... 4 • 4.0 RESULTS OF SURVEY ................................................................................................... 9 -4.1 Botany -Plant Communities and Floral Diversity ................................................. 9 4.2 Zoology-Wildlife Diversity ................................................................................ 19 -5.0 ANTICIPATED PROJECT IMPACTS AND SIGNIFICANCE OF IMPACTS .•.••. 24 -6.0 MITIGATION MEASURES ........................................................................................... 37 7.0 ACKNOWLEDGMENTS ............................................................................................... 40 --8.0 LITERATURE CITED ................................................................................................... 40 -APPENDICES -- ----- - A B c D Wetland Delineation Forms List of Plant Species Observed on Site Wildlife Species Observed on Site California Gnatcatcher Focused Survey Report DUDEK 5332-01 February 2010 Biological Resources Technical Report and Impact Analysis for the Muroya Property Page No. LIST OF FIGURES 1 Regionall\.:fap ....................................................................................................................... 5 2 Vicinity Map ........................................................................................................................ 7 3 Biological Resources Map ................................................................................................. 11 4 Biological Resources Map with Proposed Impacts ........................................................... 27 5 Focused Planning Area and Proposed Project ................................................................... 35 LIST OF TABLES 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Survey Dates and Conditions ............................................................................................... 2 Existing Plant Communities/Land Covers on the Muroya Property ................................... 9 Sensitive Plants, Including HMP Species of Concern, and Status or Potential to Occur on Site ...................................................................................................................... 15 Sensitive Wildlife or HMP Species of Concern and Status on Site ................................... 20 Proposed Permanent Impacts to Existing Plant Communities and Land Covers ............. .26 Mitigation Ratios ............................................................................................................... 38 Significant Impacts and Proposed Mitigation Requirement ............................................. .38 Impacts and Mitigation for Disturbed Land and Agriculture ........................................... .39 DUDEK 5332-01 February 2010 , • .. ' " ' • ... • • ---.. - -----.. --- -... -- - ---.. - -• Biological Resources Technical Report and Impact Analysis for the Muroya Property SUMMARY OF FINDINGS The approximately 20-acre Muroya property is located within the City of Carlsbad, San Diego County, California. The study area is physically located along the west side of Black Rail Road, a secondary street off Aviara Parkway. Based on species composition and plant physiognomy, nine plant communities or land covers are present on the site: agricultural lands (7.90 acres), coastal sage scrub (2.03 acres), developed lands (1.11 acres), disturbed land (1.83 acres), native grassland (0.19 acre), ornamental plantings (1.05 acres), southern maritime chaparral (5.39 acres), and southern mixed chaparral (0.77 acre). No wetlands are located within the property; however, a total of 0.02 acre of waters of the U.S. is located within the upland plant communities. No plant species listed as rare, threatened, or endangered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) or the California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG) were detected in the study area. Four special-status plant species designated by the California Native Plant Society (CNPS) were detected in the project area: California Adolphia (Adolphia californica), a CNPS List 2.1 species; Nuttall's scrub oak (Quercus dumosa), a CNPS List 1B.1 species; wart-stemmed ceanothus ( Ceanothus verrucosus), a CNPS List 2.2 species; and Engelmann oak (Quercus engelmannii), a CNPS List 4.2 species. One state-or federally listed endangered or threatened animal species was observed on site: the federally listed threatened coastal California gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica californica). The proposed project is to develop approximately 10.5 acres of mostly agricultural and disturbed lands within the study area into a residential development. The impacts have been designed to be consistent with the City of Carlsbad Habitat Management Plan (HMP) and the California Coastal Commission. The HMP indicates that the project should be clustered in previously disturbed areas within the study area and should not disturb more than 1 0% of coastal sage scrub and southern maritime chaparral. Implementation of the proposed development would result in direct impacts and partial to complete loss of the following vegetation communities and subsequent acreages: agricultural lands (6.66 acres), developed lands (1.11 acres), disturbed land (1.56 acres), ornamental vegetation (0.78 acre), southern maritime chaparral (0.29 acre), and southern mixed chaparral (0.05 acre). A total of approximately 10.45 acres will be impacted as a result of the project, a total of 4.1% of the coastal sage scrub and southern maritime chaparral present on site. Open space has been designated for the balance of the property and includes the following vegetation associations and acreages for areas that are outside of the San Diego Gas and Electric (SDG&E) easement: agricultural lands (0.71 acre), coastal sage scrub (2.03 acres), disturbed land DUDEK iii 5332-01 February 2010 Biological Resources Technical Report and Impact Analysis for the Muroya Property (0.06 acre), native grassland (0.19 acre), ornamental plantings (0.16 acre), southern maritime chaparral (4.64 acres), and southern mixed chaparral (0.72 acre). A total of approximately 8.51 acres is proposed for designated open space for the project, not including areas within the SDG&E easement. Mitigation for the impacts to sensitive biological resources includes on-site restoration. The project must comply with the requirements of the HMP and include restoration of both southern maritime chaparral and southern mixed chaparral at a 1: 1 ratio to account for no net loss of these vegetation communities within the coastal zone. The balance of the mitigation for these vegetation communities (an additional2:1 for southern maritime chaparral) may be through on- site restoration, purchase in a mitigation bank, or mitigation outside the coastal zone. Due to the availability of on-site restoration areas, the applicant will account for the remaining 2:1 mitigation for southern maritime chaparral through restoration. DUDEK iv 5332-01 February 2010 • , .. , • ' • " • • ... • .. • • • • -• .. • • .. ... --------... ------------ • --• -.. -.. --• • 1.0 Biological Resources Technical Report and Impact Analysis for the Muroya Property INTRODUCTION The proposed project on the Muroya property is an approximately 1 0-acre residential development within the approximately 20-acre property. The property falls within the jurisdiction of the City of Carlsbad (City) and is located in the southern portion of the City and is also subject to the Carlsbad Habitat Management Plan (HMP) and the California Coastal Commission regulations. Biological surveys of the property were conducted by Dudek in October and November 2006 following an initial study conducted by Foothill Associates earlier in the year. To provide current information on the existing conditions of the biological resources on the site, Dudek conducted vegetation mapping, a wildlife habitat assessment, focused surveys for special-status plant and animal species, and a wetland delineation. An additional survey was conducted during the appropriate biological window (March-June) for other potential special- status plant species. A recent update and review of existing conditions was conducted in 2009. The purposes of this report are to describe the biological character of the site in terms of vegetation, flora, wildlife, and wildlife habitats; analyze the biological significance of the site considering federal, state, and local laws and policies; provide an analysis of direct effects based on the proposed development scenario; and provide mitigation measures that fully compensate for significant impacts. 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 of which are described in detail below . 2.1 Literature Review Sensitive biological resources present or potentially present on site were identified through a literature search using the following sources: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) (2000), California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG 2006 a-e), and California Native Plant Society's (CNPS's) Inventory of Rare and Endangered Vascular Plants (CNPS 2001), including any revisions provided on http://www.cnps.org/inventory (accessed October 2006). General information regarding wildlife species present in the region was obtained from Unitt (1984) for birds, Bond (1977) for mammals, Stebbins (2003) for reptiles and amphibians, and Emmel and Emmel (1973) for butterflies . 2.2 Field Reconnaissance Biological surveys of the property, including vegetation mapping, a wetland delineation and wildlife and plant surveys were conducted by Dudek biologists Scott M. Boczkiewicz, DUDEK 5332-01 February 2010 Biological Resources Technical Report and Impact Analysis for the Muroya Property Clint J. Emerson, Anita M. Hayworth, PhD, Paul M. Lemons, and Michelle L. Balk (Table 1). Surveys were conducted by foot and the entire property was surveyed and inventoried for biotic components. A focused survey for the coastal California gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica californica) was conducted by Mr. Lemons and Dr. Hayworth. A spring survey for special-status plant species was conducted in April 2007; the fall survey was conducted in October 2006. An update and confirmation of existing biological resources conditions was conducted in July 2009 by Tricia L. Wotipka. Table 1 Survey Dates and Conditions *Survey Key: WD = Wetland Delineation B: = Botanical survey V = Vegetation Mapping CAGN = Focused survey for California gnatcatcher W = Wildlife survey SP = Special status plant survey 2.2.1 Resource Mapping Vegetation communities were mapped in the field directly onto an aerial photograph of the site at 100-scale (1 inch= 100 feet). The vegetation boundaries and locations of sensitive species were digitized by Dudek geographic information system (GIS) technician Martie Clemons using the ArcCAD system. Plant community classifications used in this report follow Holland (1986). Locations of rare or sensitive plant and wildlife species also were mapped. Jurisdictional "waters of the U.S." were mapped within the extent of the study area. Potential wetland areas were examined for hydrology, hydrophytic vegetation, and soils. Where it was feasible soil pits were dug to depths ranging from 10-16 inches, in order to help determine the potential extent of U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE)-jurisdictional areas. Excavated soils were examined for evidence of hydric conditions, including low chroma values and mottling, vertical streaking, and high organic DUDEK 2 5332-01 February 2010 E I I " • ' • " • " • .. -• -• • • • .. • -, • • ------------• --.. .. • -.. -• • • -• --.. --.. Biological Resources Technical Report and Impact Analysis for the Muroya Property matter content in the upper horizon. Munsell Soil Color Charts were used to determine soil chroma colors and value and the indicator status of plant species was determined by using the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service National List of Plant Species that Occur in Wetlands: California (Region 0). Data station forms were completed at each soil pit and are included in Appendix A. The dimensions of non-wetland jurisdictional areas (i.e., incised channels with no wetland vegetation) were transferred to the topographic base as linear features. 2.2.2 Flora Clint J. Emerson and Scott M. Boczkiewicz conducted a floral survey of the entire site in October 2006. A second floral survey was conducted in April 2007 by Michelle L. Balk. All plant species encountered during the field surveys were identified and recorded. Those species that could not be identified on site 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). A list of plant species observed on the property during the surveys is presented in Appendix B. 2.2.3 Fauna Wildlife species detected during field surveys by sight, calls, tracks, scat, or other sign were recorded. Latin and common names of animals follow Stebbins (2003) for reptiles and amphibians, American Ornithologists' Union (2006) for birds, Jones et al. (1997) for mammals, and Emmel and Emmel (1973) for butterflies. A list of wildlife species observed on the property during all visits by the wildlife biologist is presented in Appendix C . 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. The focused survey for the California gnatcatcher was conducted on the project site in October and November 2006 by Dudek biologists Anita M. Hayworth, PhD and Paul Lemons (Appendix D). Both Dr. Hayworth and Mr. Lemons hold federal permits (TE781084 and TE051248-2, respectively) to conduct surveys for the gnatcatcher. The survey was conducted following the currently accepted protocol of the USFWS, Coastal California Gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica californica) Presence/Absence Survey Protocol (USFWS 1997). The survey included DUDEK 3 5332-01 February 2010 Biological Resources Technical Report and Impact Analysis for the Muroya Property the typical three-visit survey to all areas of suitable California gnatcatcher habitat at weekly intervals, as required by the protocol in Natural Community Conservative Planning (NCCP)- enrolled areas. All areas of coastal sage scrub vegetation, including all sub-associations were visited during each survey. The route used to survey the habitat varied during each visit and was arranged to ensure complete coverage of the habitat. The entire site was covered thoroughly within an approximately 2-to 3-hour period. A 100-scale (1 inch= 100 feet) aerial photograph of the property was available to map any gnatcatchers detected. Binoculars (10x50) were used to aid in detecting and identifying bird species. The weather conditions were generally pleasant and mild as shown in Table 1. A tape of recorded vocalizations was used frequently in order to elicit responses from the species, if present. The tape was played approximately every 100 feet and if a gnatcatcher was detected, the playing of the tape would cease in order to avoid harassment. A special status plant survey was conducted within the study area by traversing the entire property and visually searching for potential rare species. At the time of the survey, plants that do not require flowering parts for identification and that can be readily identified by leaf and stem parts were found. This first survey was conducted in October 2006. A survey to identify spring-flowering or annual species was conducted in April2007. 2.3 Survey Limitations Limitations of the surveys include a diurnal bias, and the absence of focused trapping for mammals and reptiles. Surveys were conducted during the daytime to maximize visibility for the detection of plants and most animals especially bird species. In contrast, daytime surveys usually result in few observations of mammals, many of which may be active at night. In addition, many species of reptiles and amphibians are secretive in their habits and are difficult to observe using standard meandering transects. 3.0 3.1 PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS Site Description The approximately 20-acre Muroya property is located within the City of Carlsbad, San Diego County, California. The study area is physically located along the west side of Black Rail Road, a secondary street off A viara Parkway (Figure 1 ). The property is situated centrally within the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) 7.5-minute Encinitas quadrangle, T12S, R4W; Section 28 (Figure 2). DUDEK 4 5332-01 February 2010 • .. II -• - II -• -• -• -• -.. -.. lilt • • .. • .. --------... ---- • • -.. -• .. --.. -.. • • ---.. Orange County Oceanside Camp Pendleton La Jolla San Diego Fallbrook Coronado Imperial ! Beach Valley Center Escondido Mexico --==--c::::JMiles 0 4 8 Muroya Property-Biological Resources Technical Report and Impact Analysis I FIGURE I Regional Map 1 DUDEK Biological Resources Technical Report and Impact Analysis for the Muroya Property INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK 6 5332-01 February 2010 • • • • • l. " • • - " .. ,. • " .. • • • • ,. • " ... • illllil .. .. .. .. ... -,. -• .. " - Muroya Property-Biological Resources Technical Report and Impact Analysis I FIGURE ] Vicinity Map 2 DUDEK Biological Resources Technical Report and Impact Analysis for the Muroya Property INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK 8 5332-01 February 2010 ------ - -.. -- ----- ----.. ---.. --- - Biological Resources Technical Report and Impact Analysis for the Muroya Property Approximately 8 acres of the study area is currently being used as a palm tree nursery. This includes shade houses, outbuildings, and associated access roads. A single-family residence is located in the southeastern portion of the property. The remaining area is undeveloped and dominated by native vegetation. Surrounding land use is currently developed as single-family residential homes. The topography on site consists of a flat bench where the nursery and single family home are located. From the bench the topography slopes quickly down into a network of incised ravines that are oriented from east to west/southwest. Elevations range from approximately 50 to 180 feet above mean sea level. The soil types on site, according to the San Diego County Soil Survey (Bowman 1973), include Chesterton fine sandy loam (CfC), 5% to 9% slopes; Chesterton fine sandy loam (CID2), 9% to 15% slopes; and rough broken lands (RuG). Chesterton fine sandy loams occur on coastal ridges and are moderately well drained with a sandy clay subsoil. The soils were formed in material weathered in place from soft ferruginous sandstone. Rough broken land is made up of well drained to excessively drained, steep and very steep land dissected by many narrow v-shaped valleys and divides. Areas of exposed soil, is common within rough broken land making runoff very rapid and creating a high potential for erosion. 4.0 RESULTS OF SURVEY 4.1 Botany-Plant Communities and Floral Diversity Based on species composition and general physiognomy, nine plant communities/land cover types were identified within the study area: southern maritime chaparral, coastal sage scrub, southern mixed chaparral, developed land, native grassland, ornamental plantings, disturbed land, and agricultural lands. The plant communities/land covers are shown in Figure 3 and tabulated in Table 2. Table 2 Existing Plant Communities/Land Covers on the Muroya Property DUDEK 9 5332-01 February 2010 Agriculture Biological Resources Technical Report and Impact Analysis for the Muroya Property Table 2 (Continued) • Acreage may not total exactly due to rounding. Total does not include waters of the U.S. because this feature is located within upland habitat This land cover refers to the part of the study area in which palm trees are actively being grown for retail sale. The area consists of rows of potted palm trees that are anywhere from seedlings to large mature trees and occur under shade houses and in the open. Agricultural lands account for the largest amount ofland within the study area covering 7.90 acres. Coastal Sage Scrub 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 (Eriogonum fasciculatum), and sages (Salvia spp.); with scattered evergreen shrubs, including lemonadeberry (Rhus integrifolia), laurel sumac (Malosma laurina), and toyon (Heteromeles arbutifolia). It typically develops on south-facing slopes and other xeric situations. Two areas of coastal sage scrub were found within the study area. One large area in the southwestern portion of the project is characterized by narrow ridges dissecting incised gullies with exposed barren soils. The second small polygon is along the western portion of the property and occurs on a short steep slope that quickly intergrades into southern maritime chaparral. A total of 2.01 acres of coastal sage scrub were mapped within the study area. DUDEK 10 5332-01 February 2010 ! I ' • ' • ,. • J • I I I " Ill , Ill ' • • • ,. ... , • I 0 Vegetation Communities: AGR =Agriculture CS§ = Coastal Sage Scrub DEV = Developed Land DH = Disturbed Habitat NG = Native Grassland ORN = Ornamental Planting SMC = Southern Maritime Chaparral SMX = Southern Mixed Chaparral Sensitive Animal Species: CAGN = California gnatcatcher urisdictional Waters (1-ft widths) Ac = Adolphia californica Cv = Ceanothus verrucosus Qd = Quercus dumosa Qe = Quercus engelmannii 0 Data Station with Unique ID SDG&E Easement Lines: ---C::=::::::J Feet 100 Muroya Property -Biological Resources Technical Report and Impact Analysis I FIG3RE I Biological Resources Map DUDEK Biological Resources Technical Report and Impact Analysis for the Muroya Property INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK 12 5332-01 November 2009 ------------------------------------- Biological Resources Technical Report and Impact Analysis for the Muroya Property Within the southern portion of the site, there is a small patch of coastal sage scrub dominated by coyote brush (Baccharis pilularis). Baccharis-dominated coastal sage scrub typically develops in drainage bottoms or mesic floodplains following disturbance to the native plant community. This community is dominated by coyote brush, with a few successional elements of the former native community, including California sagebrush, flat-top buckwheat, coast goldenbush (Jsocoma menziesii), or other disturbance-tolerant native plants. The understory usually includes a variety of non-native herbs and grasses. The polygon continues to the south off the property. Within the study area there was 0.02 acre of Baccharis-dominated coastal sage scrub mapped. Developed Lands Developed land is a land cover type which includes areas where vegetation growth is prevented by an existing structure or material, such as a building or road, and ornamental vegetation associated with structures. Areas mapped as developed land on the project site include a single family residence, maintenance buildings associated with the nursery and a portion of Black Rail Road, which is paved. Developed lands cover 1.11 acres of the study area. Disturbed Land Disturbed land refers to areas where vegetation growth is limited as the result of mechanical perturbation causing bare dirt to exist in perpetuity. Disturbed land on site includes all dirt roads that dissect the nursery facility allowing access to transport palm trees. A total of 1.83 acres of disturbed land was mapped within the study area. Native Grassland This vegetation classification occurs in flat basin areas at the termination of narrow channels where giant wild rye (Leymus condensatus) has formed dense thickets and is the only species occurring in the area. The areas appear to be potential wetland sites but soils are not hydric and hydrology indicators are absent. A total of 0.19 acre of native grassland was mapped within the study area. Ornamental Plantings Ornamental plantings within the study area are mostly dominated by iceplant Mesembryanthemum crystallinum) and hottentot-fig (Carpobrotus edulis). It is likely that these areas were not planted with these species but have probably spread and encroached from the original areas where they were planted. There were 1.05 acres of ornamental plantings mapped within the study area. DUDEK 13 5332-01 February 2010 Biological Resources Technical Report and Impact Analysis for the Muroya Property 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 dumosum), and Nuttall's scrub oak (Quercus dumosa). Other shrubs encountered frequently in this community are chamise (Adenostoma fasciculatum), lemonadeberry, laurel sumac, toyon, and summer-holly ( Comarostaphylis diversifolia). Within the study area, southern maritime chaparral consists primarily of Nuttall's scrub oak, wart-stemmed ceanothus, chamise, and mission manzanita (Xylococcus bicolor). Understory species include monkey-flower (Mimulus aurantiacus) and black sage (Salvia mellifera). Southern maritime chaparral is well distributed within the undeveloped portion of the property accounting for a majority of the area. There were 5.39 acres of southern maritime chaparral mapped within the study area. Southern Mixed Chaparral Characterized by broad-leaved sclerophyll shrubs generally 1.5-3 meters tall forming dense impenetrable vegetation dominated by a mix of chamise, lemonade berry, toyon (Arctostaphylos spp.), and Nuttall's scrub oak. It is usually found on north facing slopes in dry rocky areas and is often adjacent to chamise chaparral, southern maritime chaparral, and coastal sage scrub vegetation associations. Within the study area southern mixed chaparral occurs as a large polygon on a steep rocky north facing slope in the southern portion of the site. Dominant species include toyon and lemonade berry. There was 0.77 acre mapped as southern mixed chaparral within the study area. Waters of the U.S. There were seven separate drainages found within the study area where highly incised channels drain water seasonally during high rainfall events. These ephemeral waters do not drain into any wetlands or navigable waters of the U.S. and therefore are not considered jurisdictional wetlands by the ACOE, CDFG, or Regional Water Control Board (RWQCB). Ephemeral waters are waters that are not inundated or saturated for extended periods and generally have surface water only for a very short time (24 hours or less) following a significant rain event. In contrast, intermittent waters have a surface flow that, although not perennial, may be present for relatively long periods (greater than 24 hours) following rainfall events. Intermittent streams may support some vegetation characteristic of wetlands, whereas ephemeral streams typically do not. DUDEK 14 5332-01 February 2010 I I I I I I I I I " • I • • .. • • • Biological Resources Technical Report and Impact Analysis for the Muroya Property Hydrology is indicated ir. these stream channels by the presence of an ordinary high water mark. Mapped waters of the U.S. account for a total of 0.02 acre of the study area and are mapped as linear features in Figure 3, but are not included in the total for the plant communities because they are located within upland plant communities. Special-Status Plants No plant species listed as rare, threatened, or endangered by USFWS or the California CDFG were detected in the project area. Four species designated as sensitive by the CNPS were detected in the project area: California Adolphia (Adolphia californica), a CNPS List 2.1 species; Nuttall's scrub oak (Quercus dumosa), a CNPS List lB.l species; wart-stemmed ceanothus (Ceanothus verrucosus), a CNPS List 2.2 species; and Engelmann's oak (Quercus engelmannii), a CNPS List 4.2 species. These species are discussed in more detail below. Table 3 lists the Carlsbad HMP Species of Concern in addition to sensitive plant species observed on site and their status or potential to occur on site. Table 3 Sensitive Plants, Including HMP Species of Concern, and Status or Potential to Occur on Site Status Species Federal/State/ Common/Scientific Name Other CNPS list San Diego thorn mint 1. 3 FT/SE 18.1 Acanthomintha ilicifolia California Adelphia None/None 2.1 Adolphia californica San Diego ambrosia1,3 FE/None 18.1 Ambrosia pumila Del Mar manzanita1.2,3 FE/None 18.1 Arctostaphylos glandu/osa var. crassifolia DUDEK Habitat/ Location Chaparral, coastal scrub, valley and foothill grassland, vernal pools/clay; elevation 10-935 meters. Annual herb, blooms April-June. Chaparral, coastal scrub, valley and foothill grassland; clay/ shrub/ blooms December-May Chaparral , coastal scrub, valley and foothill grassland, vernal pools; often in disturbed areas; elevation 20-415 meters. Perennial herb (rhizomatous), blooms June-September. Southern maritime chaparral on marine sandstone substrate; elevation 0-365 meters. Shrub (evergreen), blooms December- April. 15 Status on Site Low potential to occur on site; lack of appropriate soils. Not detected during spring 2007 survey. A total of three individuals were observed on site within the southern portion of the property. Low potential to occur on site; lack of appropriate soils. Not detected during spring 2007 survey. Not present. Would have been observed if present during Fall 2006 survey. 5332-01 February 2010 Biological Resources Technical Report and Impact Analysis for the Muroya Property Status Species Federal/State/ Common/Scientific Name Other Encinitas baccharis, ,2.3 FT/SE Baccharis vanessae Thread-leaved brodiaea, ,2.3 FT/SE Brodiaea filifo!ia Orcutt's brodiaea 1 ,2.3 None/None Brodiaea orcuttii Wart-stemmed ceanothus1.2 None/None Ceanothus verrucosus Orcutt's spineflower1,3 FE/SE Chorizanthe orcuttiana Summer holly1.2 None/None Comarostaphylis diversifolia ssp. diversifolia Sea dahlia2 None/None Coreopsis maritima Del Mar Mesa sand aster1.3 None/None Corethrogyne filaginifolia var. linifolia (Lessingia filaginifolia var. incana) DUDEK Table 3 (Continued) Habitat/ CNPS List Location 18.1 Southern maritime, southern maritime, and chamise chaparral on metavolcanic and marine sandstone soils; elevation 60- 720 meters. Shrub (deciduous), blooms August-November. 18.1 Chaparral, coastal scrub, playas, clay soils in valley and foothill grasslands; elevation 40-1 ,220 meters. Perennial herb (bulbiferous), blooms March- June. 18.1 Chaparral, clay soils in grasslands and near vernal pools; elevation 30-1 ,615 meters. Perennial herb (bulbiferous), blooms May-July. 2.2 Sandstone and metavolcanic soils in mixed chaparral and chamise chaparral; elevation 1- 380 meters. Shrub (evergreen), blooms December-April. 18.1 Chaparral (maritime), closed- cone coniferous forest, coastal scrub/sandy openings; elevation 3-125 meters. Annual herb, blooms March-May. 18.2 Chaparral; elevation 30-550 meters. Shrub (evergreen), blooms April-June. 2.2 Coastal bluff scrub, coastal scrub; elevation 5-150 meters. Perennial herb, blooms March- May. 18.1 Southern maritime and mixed chaparrals on marine sandstone soils; elevation 3-115 meters. Perennial herb, blooms May- September. California Natural Diversity Database (CNDD8) record for Point Lorna. 16 Status on Site Not present. Would have been observed if present during Fall 2006 survey. Low potential to occur on site; lack of appropriate soils. Not detected during spring 2007 survey. No potential to occur on site; lack of appropriate soils/vernal pool habitat. 14 individuals found within southern maritime chaparral in the study area in fall 2006. Not detected during spring 2007 survey. Not present. Would have been observed if present. 2006 survey was negative. Moderate potential to occur on site. Not detected during spring 2007 survey. High potential to occur on site. Fall 2006 did not locate any sites. No Corethrogyne species were detected during spring 2007 survey. 5332-01 February 2010 Biological Resources Technical Report and Impact Analysis for the Muroya Property Status Species F ederai/State/ Common/Scientific Name Other 81ochman's dudleya 1,3 None/None Dudleya blochmaniae Sticky dudleya 1 None/None Dudleya viscida San Diego button-celery1.3 FEISE Eryngium aristulatum var. parishii Cliff spurge 1. 2 None/None Euphorbia misera San Diego barrel cactus1. 2 None/None Ferocactus viridescens Orcutt's hazardia1.3 None/None Hazardia orcuttii San Diego marsh-elder1 None/None Iva hayesiana San Diego goldenstar1,3 None/None Muil/a clevelandii Little mousetail1.3 None/None Myosurus minimus ssp. apus DUDEK Table 3 (Continued) Habitat/ CNPS list Location 18.1 Southern maritime chaparral on Linda Vista Formation (marine sandstone) soils, coastal scrub/Torrey sandstone; elevation 5-450 meters. Perennial herb, blooms April- June. 18.2 Coastal sage scrub, chamise chaparral, vernal pool habitats on clayey or metavolcanic soils; elevation 10-550 meters. Perennial herb, blooms May- June. 18.1 Vernal pools/mesic, coastal scrub; elevation 20-620 meters. Annual/perennial herb, blooms April-June. 2.2 Coastal bluff scrub, coastal scrub/rocky; elevation 10-500 meters. Shrub, blooms December-August. 2.1 Coastal sage scrub, chaparral, and grassland , vernal pools; elevation 3-450 meters. Shrub (stem succulent), blooms May- June. 18.1 Chaparral, coastal scrub/ often clay soils; elevation 85-185 meters. Shrub (evergreen), blooms August-October. 2.2 Marshes and swamps, playas; elevation 1 0-500 meters. Perennial herb, blooms April- September. 18.1 Grassland, chaparral and coastal sage scrub on clay soils; elevation 50-465 meters. Perennial herb (bulbiferous), blooms May. 3.1 Valley and foothill grassland, vernal pools (alkaline); elevation 20-640 meters. Annual herb, blooms March-June. 17 Status on Site Low potential to occur on site; lack of appropriate soils. Not detected during spring 2007 survey. Low potential to occur on site; lack of appropriate soils. Not detected during spring 2007 survey. No potential to occur on site; lack of appropriate soils and vernal pool habitat. Low potential to occur on site. Would have been observed if present. 2006 survey was negative. Not present. Would have been observed if present. 2006 survey was negative. Low potential to occur on site; lack of clay soils. Would have been observed if present. 2006 survey was negative. Low potential to occur on site; lack of appropriate habitats. Not detected during spring 2007 survey. Very low potential to occur on site; lack of clay soils. Not detected during spring 2007 survey No potential to occur on site; lack of appropriate habitaV vernal pool. 5332-01 February 2010 Biological Resources Techn ical Re port and Impact Analysis for the Muroya Property Table 3 (Continued) Status Species F ederai/State/ Common/Scientific Name Other CNPS List Spreading navarretia1,3 FT/None 18.1 Navarretia fossa/is California Orcutt grass1,3 FEISE 18.1 Orcuttia californica Torrey pine1.2 None/None 18.2 Pinus torreyana ssp. torreyana Nuttall's scrub oak1,2 None/None 18.1 Quercus dumosa Engelmann oak1.2 None/None 4.2 Quercus engelmannii Parry's tetracoccus1 None/None 18.2 Tetracoccus dioicus 1 Carlsbad HMP Species of Concern 2 Perennial species that would have been observed if present 3 Narrow endemic species for the Carlsbad HMP Legend: FE = Federally listed as endangered FSC = Federal species of concern FT = Federally listed as threatened PFE = Proposed for federal listing as endangered SCE = State candidate for listing as endangered SE = State-listed as endangered SR = State rare Habitat/ Location Vernal pools and depressions on clay soils, chenopod scrub; elevation 30-1 ,300 meters. Annual herb, blooms April-June. Long-duration vernal pools; elevation 15-660 meters. Annual herb, blooms April-August. Southern maritime chaparral on marine sandstone soils; elevation 75-160 meters. Tree (evergreen). Closed-cone coniferous forest, chaparral, coastal scrub/ sandy, clay loam soils; elevation 1 ~00 meters. Shrub (evergreen), blooms February-April. Chaparral, cismontane woodland, riparian woodland, valley and foothill grassland; elevation 120- 1,300 meters. Tree (deciduous), blooms March-May. Southern mixed and chamise chaparrals on gabbro soils; elevation 165-1 ,000 meters. Shrub (deciduous), blooms April- May. Status on Site No potential to occur on site; lack of vernal pool habitat. No potential to occur; lack of appropriate vernal pool habitat. Not present. Would have been observed if present. 2006 survey was negative. Approximately 16 individuals scattered throughout southern maritime chaparral within the study area. One individual tree located on the edge of the palm tree nursery and a polygon of southern mixed chaparral. No potential to occur on site; suitable soils not present. California adolphia was found in a small clump of three individuals within the southern portion . of the site. This species is considered somewhat endangered in California but is common and stable outside of the state. Nuttall's scrub oak was found growing in southern maritime chaparral and is a key species indicating that vegetation association. Approximately 16 Nuttall's scrub oaks were found DUDEK 18 5332-01 February 2010 Biological Resources Technical Report and Impact Analysis for the Muroya Property scattered throughout the study area (Figure 3). Nuttall's scrub oak is known only from southern California and northern Baja California and is very rare and threatened by development. Wart-stemmed ceanothus is also a species indicator of southern maritime chaparral and was found scattered throughout the vegetation association within the study area. Approximately 14 individual shrubs were found scattered throughout the study area. Wart-stemmed ceanothus is rare and somewhat endangered in California but is common and stable outside of the state. One old and large Engelmann oak tree was found on the property. The tree is located on the edge of a bench that slopes quickly down into a ravine in a transition area between agricultural and southern mixed chaparral. Engelmann oak is a watch list species because it has a limited distribution but is fairly common within the area where it occurs. 4.2 Zoology -Wildlife Diversity Birds A total of 25 bird species were recorded during the general field survey of the site. Two pairs of California gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica californica) were observed within coastal sage scrub on the project site. Additional species commonly observed on site included western scrub- jay (Aphelocoma californica), Anna's hummingbird (Calypte anna), California towhee (Pipilo crissalis), song sparrow (Melospiza melodia), and northern mockingbird (Mimus polyglottos). A complete list of bird species observed during the field surveys are listed in Appendix C. Reptiles and Amphibians No amphibian species were observed on site. One reptile species was observed on site and included western fence lizard (Sceloporus occidentalis). Mammals Five mammal species were observed or detected during the surveys, including California ground squirrel (Spermophilus beecheyi), coyote (Canis latrans), brush rabbit (Sylvilagus bachmani), woodrat (Neotoma sp.), and mouse (Peromyscus sp.). Sensitive Wildlife One state-or federally listed endangered or threatened animal species was observed on site: the federally listed threatened coastal California gnatcatcher. Two California gnatcatcher pairs were observed on site, one pair in the southern portion of the site and one pair in the central portion of DUDEK 19 5332-01 February 2010 Biological Resources Technical Report and Impact Analysis for the Muroya Property the site. Table 4 lists the potentially occurring sensitive wildlife species and Carlsbad HMP wildlife species and their status on the project site. Table 4 Sensitive Wildlife or HMP Species of Concern and Status on Site Regulatory Species Status Common/Scientific Name F ederai/State Arroyo toad FE/CSC Anaxyrus californicus Southwestern pond turtle None/CSC Actinemys marmorata pal/ida Orange-throated whiptail NoneiCSC Aspidoscelis hyperythra beldingi San Diego horned lizard NoneiCSC Phrynosoma coronatum blainvillei Cooper's hawk None/WL Accipiter cooperii Tricolored blackbird BCC/CSC Agelaius tricolor Southern California rufous-None/WL crowned sparrow Aimophila ruficeps canescens Bell's sage sparrow BCC/WL Amphispiza belli belli Golden eagle None/WL, P Aquila chrysaetos Coastal cactus wren BCCICSC Campylorhynchus brunneicapillus cousei DUDEK Habitat/Location Amphibians Stream channels (second and third order streams) for breeding and adjacent terraces for wintering Riparian , freshwater marshes, lakes, and ponds Reptiles Coastal sage scrub, chaparral, grassland, juniper and oak woodland Coastal sage scrub, annual grassland, chaparral, oak and riparian woodland, coniferous forest Birds Riparian and oak woodlands, montane canyons Nests near fresh water, emergent wetland with cattails or tules; forages in grasslands, woodland, agriculture Grass-covered hillsides, coastal sage scrub, chaparral with boulders and outcrops Coastal sage scrub and dry chaparral along coastal lowlands and inland valleys Open country, especially hilly and mountainous regions; grassland, coastal sage scrub, chaparral, oak savannas, open coniferous forest Southern cactus scrub, maritime succulent scrub, cactus thickets in coastal sage scrub 20 Status on Site No potential to occur on site due to lack of suitable habitat. No potential to occur on site; lack of appropriate soils. Moderate potential to occur on site. Moderate potential to occur on site. Moderate potential to occur on site for foraging but not likely to breed on site due to lack of preferred riparian nesting habitat. No potential to occur on site due to lack of suitable habitat. Moderate potential to occur on site. Low potential to occur on site due to surrounding urbanization. Very low potential to occur on site due to surrounding urbanization. Would not breed on site due to lack of suitable nesting habitat. Unlikely to forage due to overall dense habitat. Low potential to occur on site due to very limited cactus scrub habitat present on site. 5332-01 February 2010 Biological Resources Technical Report and Impact Analysis for the Muroya Property Species Common/Scientific Name Western snowy plover Charadrius alexandrinus nivosus Northern harrier Circus cyaneus Southwestern willow flycatcher Empidonax traillii extimus American Peregrine falcon Fa/co peregrinus ana tum Yellow-breasted chat /cteria virens Long-billed curlew Numenius americanus Osprey Pandion haliaetus Belding's savannah sparrow Passerculus sandwichensis beldingi Large-billed savannah sparrow Passerculus sandwichensis rostratus California brown pelican Pelecanus occidentalis californicus DUDEK Table 4 (Continued) Regulatory Status Federal/State Habitat/location FT, BCC/CSC (only Nesting habitat along coast coastal nesting includes sandy or gravelly beaches; population is listed) inland nesting habitat is barren or sparsely vegetated ground at alkaline or saline lakes, reservoirs, ponds, riverine sand bars, and sewage, salt-evaporation and agriculture waste-water ponds None/CSC Open wetlands (nesting), pasture, old fields, dry uplands, grasslands, rangelands, coastal sage scrub FE/SE Riparian woodlands along streams and rivers with mature, dense stands of willows or alders; may nest in thickets dominated by tamarisk BCC/SE, P Nests on cliffs, buildings, bridges; forages in wetlands, riparian, meadows, croplands, especially where waterfowl are present None/CSC Dense, relatively wide riparian woodlands and thickets of willows, vine tangles and dense brush. BCC/WL Saltmarsh, mud flats, grassland, fallow agricultural fields None/WL Large waters (lakes, reservoirs, rivers) supporting fish ; usually near forest habitats, but widely observed along the coast None/SE Saltmarsh, pickleweed None/CSC Saltmarsh, pickleweed FE/delisted Open sea, large water bodies, coastal bays and harbors 21 Status an Site No potential to occur on site due to lack of suitable habitat. Low potential to occur on site due to surrounding urbanization. No potential to occur on site due to lack of suitable habitat. Moderate potential to forage on site or fly overhead due to presence of a wintering peregrine nearby. Most likely, the species would forage in nearby lagoons where more suitable prey is present. No suitable breeding habitat is located on site. No potential to occur on site due to lack of suitable habitat. No potential to occur on site due to lack of suitable habitat. No potential to occur on site due to lack of suitable habitat. No potential to occur on site due to lack of suitable habitat. No potential to occur on site due to lack of suitable habitat. No potential to occur on site due to lack of suitable habitat. 5332-01 February 2010 Biological Resources Techn ica l Report and Impact Analysis for th e Muroya Property Species Common/Scientific Name White-faced ibis Plegadis chihi Coastal California gnatcatcher Polioptila californica californica Western bluebird Sia/ia mexicana Light-footed clapper rail Rallus longirostris levipes Burrowing owl Athene cunicularia hypugaea California least tern Sterna antillarum browni Elegant tern Sterna elegans Least Bell's vireo Vireo be/Iii pusillus Mountain lion Puma concolor San Diego black-tailed jackrabbit Lepus ca/ifornicus bennettii Southern mule deer Odocoi/eus hemionus fliginata DUDEK Table 4 (Continued) Regulatory Status Federal/State Habitat/location None/WL Nests in marsh; winter foraging in shallow lacustrine waters, muddy ground of wet meadows, marshes, ponds, lakes, rivers, flooded fields and estuaries FT/CSC Coastal sage scrub, coastal sage scrub-chaparral mix, coastal sage scrub-grassland ecotone, riparian in late summer None/None Open forests of deciduous, coniferous or mixed trees, savanna, edges of riparian woodland FE/SE, P Coastal saltmarsh BCC/CSC Grassland, lowland scrub, agriculture, coastal dunes and other artificial open areas FE/SE, P Coastal waters, estuaries, large bays and harbors, mudflats; nests on sandy beaches BCC/CSC Coastal waters, estuaries, large bays and harbors, mudflats FE/SE Nests in southern willow scrub with dense cover within 1-2 meters of the ground; habitat includes willows, cottonwoods, baccharis, wild blackberry or mesquite on desert areas Mammals None/None Coastal sage scrub, chaparral, riparian , woodlands, forest; rests in rocky areas, and on cliffs and ledges that provide cover None/CSC Arid habitats with open ground; grasslands, coastal sage scrub, agriculture, disturbed areas, rangelands None/None Coastal sage scrub, chaparral, riparian, woodlands, forest; often browses in open areas adjacent to cover 22 Status on Site No potential to occur on site due to lack of suitable habitat. Two pair observed on site during focused surveys. Moderate potential to occur on site as a foraging bird especially during winter but unlikely to breed on site due to lack of suitable riparian/woodland habitat. No potential to occur on site due to lack of suitable habitat. Low potential to occur on site. No suitable burrows were located. No potential to occur on site due to lack of suitable habitat. No potential to occur on site due to lack of suitable habitat. No potential to occur on site due to lack of suitable habitat. No potential, due to surrounding urbanization, and lack of connectivity. Low potential, due to surrounding urbanization; would have been readily detected during surveys. No potential due to surrounding urbanization; would have been readily detected during surveys. No scat observed. 5332-01 February 2010 Biological Resources Technical Report and Impact Analysis for the Muroya Property Table 4 (Continued) Regulatory Species Status Common/Scientific Name Federal/State San Diego fairy shrimp FE/None/HMP Branchinecta sandiegonensis narrow endemic Harbison's dun skipper None/None Euphyes vestris harbisoni Hermes copper None/None/HMP Lycaena hermes narrow endemic Salt marsh skipper None/None Panoquina errans Riverside fairy shrimp FE/None/HMP Streptocepha/us woottoni narrow endemic Federal Designations: FE = Federally listed Endangered FS = Forest Service Region 5 Sensitive Species BCC = Fish and Wildlife Birds of Conservation Concern State Designations: Habitat/Location Invertebrates Small, shallow vernal pools, occasionally ditches and road ruts Restricted to wetland, riparian, oak woodlands, and chaparral habitats supporting host plan Carex spissa Coastal sage scrub, southern mixed chaparral supporting at least 5% cover of host plant Rhamnus crocea Salt marsh from Los Angeles to Baja, Mexico Deep, long-lived vernal pools, seasonal ponds, stock ponds; warm water pools that have low to moderate dissolved solids P = California Department of Fish and Game Fully Protected Species SE = State-listed as Endangered ST = State-listed as Threatened WL = Watch list Regional Planning Context Status on Site No potential to occur on site due to lack of suitable habitat. No potential to occur on site due to lack of suitable habitat. No potential to occur on site due to lack of suitable habitat and lack of host plant. No potential to occur on site due to lack of suitable habitat. No potential to occur on site due to lack of suitable habitat. The City of Carlsbad HMP is a comprehensive, citywide conservation program whose purpose is to identify and preserve sensitive biological resources within the City while allowing for additional development consistent with the City's General Plan and Growth Management Plan. Specific biological objectives of the HMP are to conserve the full range of vegetation types remaining in the City, with a focus on protecting rare and sensitive habitats and species. The Muroya property is located within the Local Facilities Management Zone 20 and is designated as a Standards Area in the HMP. t is located approximately in the central portion of Linkage Area F which is part of a stepping stone linkage connecting Core Areas 4, 6, and 8 and contains significant amounts of coastal sage scrub acting as a corridor for movement for the gnatcatcher and other avian species. The property is somewhat isolated from other patches of native habitat except for the southern boundary which lies adjacent to a southern willow scrub riparian area and Baccharis scrub vegetation association. However A viara Parkway lies adjacent DUDEK 23 5332-01 February 2010 Biological Resources Technical Report and Impact Analysis for the Muroya Property to those habitats and fragments any potential corridors. Section 7-14 of the HMP states that Assessor Parcel 215-040-03 (Muroya property) should cluster development within existing disturbed areas to the maximum extent feasible and that a maximum of 10% impact may occur to coastal sage scrub and southern maritime chaparral. The HMP also identifies the need for buffers and fuel modification zones to be provided between preserve areas and proposed development within the study area. The HMP identifies that a 100-foot buffer is required between development and wetlands, 50 feet for riparian areas and that a 20-foot buffer is required between development and native vegetation such as coastal sage scrub, southern maritime chaparral, and southern mixed chaparral. Buffers may be reduced if enhancement is proposed and the USFWS, California Coastal Commission, and the City give concurrence. 5.0 ANTICIPATED PROJECT IMPACTS AND SIGNIFICANCE OF IMPACTS This section addresses direct, indirect, and cumulative impacts to biological resources that would result from implementation of the proposed project. Direct impacts were quantified by overlaying the proposed plan impact limits, including brush management zones and the 20-foot HMP buffer, on the biological resources map of the site. For purposes of this assessment, all biological resources within the areas to be cleared were considered directly impacted. Indirect impacts primarily result from adverse "edge effects" as either short-term indirect impacts related to maintenance activities or long-term, chronic indirect impacts associated with increased noise due to the proximity of houses to open space areas. During maintenance activities, indirect impacts may include dust and noise which could temporarily disrupt habitat and species vitality and maintenance-related runoff. However, all project work will be subject to the typical restrictions and requirements that address erosion, runoff, and water quality, including the federal Clean Water Act and National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES). Cumulative impacts refer to incremental individual environmental effects over the long-term implementation of the project when considered together with other impacts from other projects in the area. These impacts taken individually may be minor, but collectively significant as they occur over a period of time. Explanation of Findings of Significance Impacts to sensitive habitats, sensitive plants, and sensitive wildlife species must be quantified and analyzed to determine whether such impacts are significant under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). CEQA Guidelines section 15064(b) states that an ironclad DUDEK 24 5332-01 February 2010 Biological Resources Technical Report and Impact Analysis for the Muroya Property definition of "significant" effect is not possible because the significance of an activity may vary with the setting. Appendix G of the Guidelines, however, does provide "examples of consequences which may be deemed to be a significant effect on the environment" (Guidelines section 15064[ e ]). 'fhese effects include substantial effects on rare or endangered species of animal or plant or the habitat of the species. Guidelines section 15065(a) is also helpful in defining whether a project may have "a significant effect on the environment." Under that section, a proposed project may have a significant effect on the environment if the project has the potential to: ( 1) substantially degrade the quality of the environment; (2) substantially reduce the habitat of a fish or wildlife species; (3) cause a fish or wildlife population to drop below self- sustaining levels; (4) threaten to eliminate a plant or animal community; (5) reduce the number or restrict the range of a rare or endangered plant or animal; or ( 6) eliminate important examples of the major period of California history or prehistory. The evaluation of whether or not an impact to a particular biological resource is significant must consider both the resource itself and the role of that resource in a regional context. Substantial impacts are those that contribute to, or result in, permanent loss of an important resource, such as a population of a rare plant or animal. The severity of an impact is the primary determinant of whether or not that impact can be mitigated to a level below significant. Direct Impacts Vegetation Communities The proposed project has been designed to concentrate development in areas already disturbed by agricultural practices within the study area. This will leave a significant portion of the area covered by native vegetation undisturbed. In addition the connection with off-site habitat to the south will remain intact. Access will be gained from Black Rail road and will not require grading though native vegetation or natural areas. Implementation of the proposed project would result in the direct and complete loss of all vegetation communities/land covers presented in Table 5 and shown in Figure 4. Approximately 10.45 acres would be impacted as a result of the main development on lot number 1 as well as the second lot to be used for the Muroya residence. The brush management zone (BMZ) established adjacent to development in order to provide protection for structures will be kept mostly clear of vegetation and therefore is considered a direct impact. A 20-foot-wide HMP buffer is designated adjacent to the open space preserve to provide protection from indirect effects of the development. In some areas, the Zone 3 BMZ and the 20-foot-wide HMP buffer coincide. The buffer and the Zone 3 BMZ are considered impacts and are not considered part of the open space preserve. The buffer design includes a modified buffer area (approximately 186 feet or 12% of the total length) where the proposed buffer area, varying from 20 to 40 feet in width is located in the HOA lot within the proposed grading limits. DUDEK 25 5332-01 February 2010 Biological Resources Technical Report and Impact Analysis for the Muroya Property This modified buffer area is proposed to be landscaped with native plants that will achieve the purposes of the buffer as defined in the Carlsbad HMP. The area will also be covered by a restriction prohibiting development, grading or alterations including clearing of vegetation except for fuel modification associated with Zone 3 BMZ. The modified buffer will reduce impacts to southern maritime chaparral by approximately 7000 square feet. All of the buffer areas and Zone 3 BMZ areas will be planted with a coastal sage scrub seed mix per the landscape plans and in accordance with the HMP if the area is not currently a native habitat type. Table 5 Proposed Permanent Impacts to Existing Plant Communities and Land Covers (Acres) 20-foot HMP Plant Buffer Community/Land Existing Area Cover Acreage• Ompact)** Native Grassland 0.19 Southern Maritime 5.39 Chaparral Waters of the U.S. 0.02 Coastal Sage 2.03 Scrub Southern Mixed 0.77 Chaparral Disturbed Land 1.83 Agriculture 7.90 Developed 1.11 Ornamental 1.05 Plantings Total 20.27 SDG&E = San Diego Gas and Electric HOA = Home Owners' Association - 0.03 - - - 0.13 0.18 - 0.06 0.40 20-foot Additional HMP Buffer HMP withinBMZ Buffer Zone3 (impact) (impact)*** GroupB -- 0.04 0.11 9 linear feet - Group C - - GroupO -0.03 GroupF -0.04 -0.12 Other Lands -- -0.01 0.04 0.31 Impacts from Proposed Grading Open Proposed (including Space in Project SDG&Eand Total SDG&E Open HOA lot) Impacts Easement Space - - -0.19 0.11 0.29 0.46 4.64 9 linear feet 91inear 1771inear 6021inear feet feet feet ---2.03 0.02 0.05 -0.72 1.39 1.56 0.21 0.06 6.36 6.66 0.53 0.71 1.11 1.11 0.0 0.0 0.71 0.78 0.11 0.16 9.70 10.45 1.31 8.51 • Acreage may not total exactly due to rounding. Total does not include waters of the U.S. that are included within upland plant communities. •• Upland buffer widths include a 20-foot zone around the edge of the development adjacent to coastal sage scrub, southem maritime chaparral, and southem mixed chaparral. In some areas, the 20-foot buffer overlaps Zone 3 of the BMZ; where this occurs, the 20-foot buffer has been included in the impacts of the BMZ. ***BMZ stands for "brush management zone," which is put in place around proposed developments, as per the HMP, in order to reduce fire risk to homes. In some areas, the 20-foot buffer overlaps Zone 3 of the BMZ; where this occurs, the 20-foot buffer has been included in the impacts of the BMZ. DUDEK 26 5332-01 February 2010 ~~ 0 .. a. E + a. .. :::;: 0 iii .j-.2' LL <5 iD Ci. .. E ~ .!!! ~ "' "' ll) ~ u I .!!!, e \ \ Q.. -I ' ' ' ;;:j BASE TOPO: Hunsaker, Sept. 2006 -IMPACTS: Hunsaker, October 2009 AGR \ 'AGR ' \ . 0 Data Station with Unique ID Sensitive Plant Species (with counts): Ac : Adolphia californica CV : Ceanothus verrucosus Qd: Quercus dumosa Qe : Quercus engelmannii Sensitive Animal Species: CAGN = California gnatcatcher SDG&E Easement Lines: _ ... .,._. __ Jurisdictional Waters (1-ft widths) 0 Vegetation Communities: AGR =Agriculture CSS = Coastal Sage Scrub DEV = Developed Land DH = Disturbed Habitat NG = Native Grassland ORN = Ornamental Planting SMC = Southern Maritime Chaparral SMX =Southern Mixed Chaparral f2t HMP 20-Foot Buffet LOT, IMPACTS 0 Proposed Development Lot & HOA Lot -Developed Proposed HOA Lot -BMZ 1 & 2 Proposed HOA Lot -HMP 20-Ft Buffer & BMZ3 0 Proposed HOA Lot-HMP 20-Ft Buffer only • Proposed HOA Lot -Additional HMP Buffer 0 Proposed OS Lot-Project Preserve 0 Proposed OS Lot-SDG&E NCCP Governed Preserve 0 Muroya Residence • Muroya Residence -HMP 20-Ft Buffer ' ' 0 •••-===::::::JFeet -0 100 Muroya Property -Biological Resources Technical Report and Impact Analysis I FIG~RJ Biological Resources Map with Proposed Impacts DUDEK Biological Resources Technical Report and Impact Analysis for the Muroya Property INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK 28 5332-01 February 2010 -----... - -... - ---... - - ---• • • .. -.. -.. Biological Resources Technical Report and Impact Analysis for the Muroya Property In order to support the slope and walls required for the proposed development, a certain amount of unconsolidated slope needs to be remediated and recompacted. This recompaction will impact a total of 9 linear feet of waters of the U.S. This will require coordination with the resource agencies and may require obtaining a waste discharge permit from the RWQCB and may require the submittal of a post construction notification to ACOE. The actual process will not be determined until the impacts are discussed with the resource agencies. Since this remediated slope will also be planted with a coastal sage scrub mix and will contain no further development features, the 20-foot HMP buffer has been designated on a portion of this slope where the Zone 3 BMZ is designated. There are three small, approximately 0.04 acre, additional areas of coastal sage scrub planting that extend beyond the Zone 3 BMZ. These areas are designated additional HMPbuffer. Sensitive Plant Species The proposed project does not directly impact any special status plant species currently listed by the HMP or other listing authority. Four species of special status plants, California adolphia, wart-stemmed ceanothus, Nuttall's scrub oak, and Englemann oak were found within the study area but all occurrences are within areas proposed for open space under the project proposal. No negative direct impacts will occur to any of these species as a result of the project. Sensitive Wildlife Species The proposed development of the Muroya property results in an open space area that totals 8.51 acres. The federally listed threatened California gnatcatcher likely uses the entire area designated for open space. No other special status wildlife species were found on site. Because almost all of the native habitat on site is proposed to be preserved, no impacts are expected to occur to the gnatcatcher . Indirect Impacts Vegetation Communities Indirect impacts to vegetation communities primarily would result from adverse "edge effects." During construction of the project, edge effects may include dust which could disrupt plant vitality in the short term and/or construction-related soil erosion and runoff. However, it is assumed that typical construction practices, including dust control, erosion control, and water quality protection measures, will be implemented and will reduce these effects. Long-term indirect impacts on vegetation communities may result due to maintenance activities such as the trampling of vegetation by humans during project implementation and invasion of exotics due to soil disturbance. However, the City HMP includes adjacency standards and proposes buffers to DUDEK 29 5332-01 February 2010 Biological Resources Technical Report and Impact Analysis for the Muroya Property avoid and minimize impacts to sensitive vegetation communities within conservation areas that are adjacent to developed areas. Adjacency standards addressed in the City HMP include fire management, erosion control, landscaping restrictions, fencing, signs and lighting, and predator and exotic species control and are discussed in detail below. Implementation of these adjacency standards are expected to reduce indirect impacts to vegetation communities to a level below significant. Sensitive Plant Species Most of the indirect impacts to vegetation communities cited above can also affect sensitive plants off site. During construction of the project, indirect effects may include dust which could disrupt plant vitality in the short term and/or construction-related soil erosion and drainage runoff. However, it is assumed that typical construction practices, including dust and erosion control and water quality Best Management Practices (BMPs), will be implemented and will reduce these effects. Long-term edge effects could include possible trampling of individual plants during maintenance activities. Implementation of the adjacency standards addressed in the City HMP (fire management, erosion control, landscaping restrictions, fencing, signs and lighting, and predator and exotic species control) are expected to reduce indirect impacts to sensitive plants to a level below significant. Sensitive Wildlife Species Most of the indirect impacts to vegetation communities and sensitive plants cited above can also affect sensitive wildlife. In addition, wildlife may be indirectly affected in the short-term and long-term by noise, which can disrupt normal activities. Also, adverse indirect impacts to vegetation communities, such as trampling of vegetation, can cause degradation of habitat quality. Implementation of the adjacency standards addressed in the City HMP (fire management, erosion control, landscaping restrictions, fencing, signs and lighting, and predator and exotic species control) are expected to reduce indirect impacts to sensitive wildlife to a level below significant. Indirect impacts to nesting California gnatcatchers will also be avoided by avoiding clearing ofvegetation from February 15 through August 30. Adjacency Standards In order to prevent negative effects of the proposed development to the conserved habitat area, the Muroya project proposes to comply with the adjacency standards that have been outlined in the HMP. DUDEK 30 5332-01 February 2010 ~ • • I I I I I I • • • • • • • • • • • • • -• • • • -----------------------• • .. • -• -• -• -.. Fire Management Biological Resources Technical Report and Impact Analysis for the Muroya Property Fire management has been addressed for the project through the designation of the Brush Management Zones as shown in Figure 4. The project has identified potential fuel reduction zones. The zones occur at the top of the slope as recommended in the HMP. The zone will be established using hand clearing and trimming of the vegetation. No prescribed burning is recommended for the open space area due to the small size of the preserved area. All brush management areas are incorporated within the development boundaries and have been evaluated as impacts for the proposed project. Erosion Control Erosion control, for some areas of the City, is needed where there are erodible soils, steep slopes, soils with low water-holding capacity, sparse to no vegetation, and hydrologic condition of the soils. The Muroya property open space contains potentially erodible soils due to the sandstone nature of the soil. This erosion potential is naturally occurring and is a feature of this region and lends to the beauty of the natural landscape. Erosion from the proposed development will be address through the development of an erosion control plan designed to prevent human-caused erosion from the proposed development. Standard Best Management Practices will be implemented to slow surface flow and dampen initial precipitation flow. Areas designated as Brush Management Zones will be hand cleared rather than bare surface graded. Areas designated for restoration will be adequately stabilized by using a binder, straw cover, or straw wattles after planting in order to minimize surface erosion. In addition, no new surface drainage is proposed to be directed into the open space areas . Landscaping Restrictions Landscape practices may be of concern where landscaping is in conflict with the management and maintenance of open space areas. Landscape planting palettes for the project will not use non-native, invasive plant species within the areas adjacent to the proposed open space. In addition, because the site is within the Coastal Zone, no invasive plant species will be used within the landscaping of the development. These plant species are identified within the HMP . Irrigation of the landscaping will be designed and scheduled to avoid runoff into the proposed open space. This will also prevent movement of fertilizer and pesticides into the open space area. Fencing, Signs, and Lighting Currently there is no fencing within the open space area. In order to prevent entry into the open space by people and pets, the open space area will be fenced in accordance with requirements of the City and resource agencies. Typically a 5-foot chain-link fence is acceptable for protecting DUDEK 31 5332-01 February 2010 Biological Resources Technical Report and Impact Analysis for the Muroya Property open space areas. Signs will be attached to the fence at intermittent intervals to alert the residents of the sensitive nature of the open space area. In addition, for the restoration areas, signs will be used to notify that restoration is underway. No lighting is proposed for the areas adjacent to the open space. Lighting that may potentially intrude into the open space area will be shielded or directed away from the open space area. Predator and Exotic Species Control Similar to the issue described above for landscaping, there are concerns related to non-native species when native areas are adjacent to development areas. The home owners association for the proposed development will alert the residents to the potential effects that domestic animals may have on the native fauna and flora. The management plan for the open space will include a monitoring and removal task for feral or domestic animals within the preserved area. The open space area will be fenced to discourage the entry of domestic animals into the open space. The open space manager will monitor and document occurrences of cowbirds and selected native predators and mesopredators and will implement a cowbird trapping program is cowbirds are deemed to be a problem. Finally, the open space manager will monitor the exotic plant species within the open space area and initiate an eradication program if deemed necessary. Cumulative Impacts 0 Cumulative impacts to sensitive upland habitat, sensitive plant species and sensitive wildlife species within the Multiple Habitat Conservation Program (MHCP) Subarea would occur through the proposed project, in the absence of the implementation ofthe HMP, and specifically the adjacent preserve system. However, implementation of the HMP provides mitigation for these cumulative impacts because the plan has anticipated region-wide impacts and has adopted a preserve system that mitigates for these impacts. The proposed project is consistent with the guidelines set forth within the MHCP and City HMP. Therefore, there will be no significant cumulative impacts to sensitive uplands, sensitive plant species, and sensitive wildlife species. Regional Resource Planning Context -Compliance Review The City of Carlsbad is a member of the North County MHCP and has adopted an HMP (City of Carlsbad 1999, finalized 2004). The MHCP is a comprehensive, multiple jurisdictional planning tool designed to create, manage, and monitor an ecosystem preserve in northwestern San Diego County (San Diego Association of Governments 2001). Under the HMP, a portion of the project area, as well as surrounding lands, are within a Focused Planning Area (FPA) of the City. FPA boundaries were created based on the existing distribution of vegetation communities and DUDEK 32 5332-01 February 2010 ' • I I I I ' .. • • • .. • • • -• - • - ----- Biological Resources Technical Report and Impact Analysis for the Muroya Property .., sensitive species. The FP As were further broken down into HMP cores, linkages and Special --------.. -... -• • • • • .. • • • -- Resource Areas. The Muroya property is located within the Local Facilities Management Zone 20 and is designated as a Standards Area in the HMP. It is located approximately in the central portion of Linkage Area F which is part of a stepping stone linkage connecting Core Areas 4, 6 and 8 and contains significant amounts of coastal sage scrub acting as a corridor for movement for the gnatcatcher and other avian species. The property is somewhat isolated from other patches of native habitat except for the southern boundary. However, Aviara Parkway lies adjacent to those habitats and fragments any potential corridors resulting in a stepping stone linkage. Figure 5 provides an overview of surrounding development, adjacent preserve areas and provides the compliance review with the HMP. As a standards area, the Muroya property goals and standards for preservation have been identified according to the Local Facilities Management Plan. These standards, as applicable to this specific property, include avoiding impacts to southern maritime chaparral and narrow endemic plant species, minimizing impacts to coastal sage scrub, providing continuous habitat connectivity within the zone, but allowing reasonable development with a focus on the lower habitat quality areas. The Citywide standard for the narrow endemic species is to conserve 100% within preserve areas and conserve at least 80% outside preserve areas. Section 7-14 of the HMP states that Assessor Parcel 215-040-03 (Muroya property) should cluster development within existing disturbed areas to the maximum extent feasible and that a maximum of 10% impact may occur to coastal sage scrub and southern maritime chaparral. The HMP also identifies the need for buffers and fuel modification zones to be provided between preserve areas and proposed development within the study area. The HMP identifies that a 1 00-foot buffer is required between development and wetlands, 50 feet for riparian areas and that a 20-foot buffer is required between development and native vegetation such as coastal sage scrub, southern maritime chaparral, and southern mixed chaparral. The proposed development of the Muroya Property conforms to all of the identified goals and standards outlined in the HMP. The project is clustered within existing disturbed areas in the study area to the maximum extent feasible. Impacts to coastal sage scrub are zero and to southern maritime chaparral is less than 10% of the total on site, totaling 5.6%. There are no narrow endemic species present on site, thus the project does not impact any narrow endemic plant or animal species and therefore meets the 80% criteria. Buffers of 20 feet in width are proposed for areas where development will be adjacent to sensitive vegetation associations. Brush management zones are proposed adjacent to development where necessary. DUDEK 33 5332-01 February 2010 Biological Resources Technical Report and Impact Analysis for the Muroya Property The development of the site is consistent with the HMP with respect to the covered species of the HMP. Currently one HMP-covered plant species (Nuttall's scrub oak) and one HMP-covered wildlife species (California gnatcatcher) are found to be present on site. Two plant species that are covered contingent on other subarea plans are also found on site, including wart-stemmed ceanothus and Englemann oak. The HMP management and conservation goals for these species are discussed below. Wart-Stemmed Ceanothus Conservation goals for this species include conserving 300 acres of southern maritime chaparral and 700 acres of other chaparral habitat within the City. The goals also include conserving substantial percentages of major populations in the City. The proposed development of the Muroya property complies with the conservation goals. 100% of the wart-stemmed ceanothus is preserved and 94.3% of the southern maritime chaparral habitat is preserved. Management for this species includes minimizing edge effects, preventing disturbance, and protecting against potentially catastrophic fires. The proposed development of the Muroya property complies with the management goals for this species. The project proposes to establish a buffer to protect the preserved habitat, provide fencing to prevent human intrusion, and to provide habitat management to protect against catastrophic fires. Nuttall's Scrub Oak Conservation goals for this species include conserving 300 acres of southern maritime chaparral, conserving 100% of the two major populations and conserving 60% of the other small populations within the City. The proposed development of the Muroya property complies with the conservation goals. 100% of the Nuttall's scrub oak is preserved and 94.3% of the southern maritime chaparral habitat is preserved. Management for this species includes minimizing edge effects, preventing disturbance, and protecting against potentially catastrophic fires. The proposed development of the Muroya property complies with the management goals for this species. The project proposes to establish a buffer to protect the preserved habitat, provide fencing to prevent human intrusion, and to provide habitat management to protect against catastrophic fires. DUDEK 34 5332-01 February 2010 I • ---• -• -• -• • • -• -• -• ---• • , O \/IDA ROBLE 1'-~~e;_,. ,--" AG AG s& "' ~ Proposed Development Q HMPCore IZ:J Linkages HMP Conservation Areas: ! ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~: ~ j Proposed Standards Area 18888 Existing Hardline Conservation Area ~ Proposed Hardline Conservation Area HMP Vegetation Communities: Chaparral Agriculture .. Oak Woodland Coastal Sage Scrub -Disturbed Habitat -Eucalyptus Woodland -Maritime Succulent Scrub Native Grassland Non-native Grassland Riparian Scrub/Forest Southern Maritime Chaparral Urban/Developed MSCP Species: AC • California adolphia AG • Del Mar manzanita AR = San Diego sage wort 80 • Orcutt's brodiaea CG • California gnatcatcher CL = Del Mar Mesa sand aster CN = San Diego sand aster CV • Wart-stemmed ceanothus HL =San Diego homed lizard HP = Palmer's grappling hook LN = Nuttall's lotus OW= Orange-throated whip tail QD = Nuttall's scrub oak QE • Engelmann oak SC =Ashy spike-moss SY = Summer holly TV= Turkey Vulture ~ •••-===::J Feet ~ 0 1,000 Muroya Property · Biological Resources Technical Report and Impact Analysis I FIGURE I Focused Planning Area and Proposed Project 5 DUDEK Biological Resources Technical Report and Impact Analysis for the Muroya Property INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK 36 5332-01 February 2010 ---------.. -• - • • --.. • .. .. • • -.. Engelmann Oak Biological Resources Technical Report and Impact Analysis for the Muroya Property Conservation goals for this species include conserving oak woodland, assuring no net loss of oak woodland, and conserving 4 of the 5 mapped individuals within the City. The proposed development of the Muroya property complies with the conservation goals. 100% of the Engelmann oak is preserved. The oak tree occurs as a single occurrence and is not located within oak woodland. Management for this species includes preventing disturbance, and protecting against potentially catastrophic fires. The proposed development of the Muroya property complies with the management goals for this species. The project proposes to provide fencing to prevent human intrusion, and to provide habitat management to protect against catastrophic fires. California Gnatcatcher Conservation goals for this species include conserving 2,000 acres of coastal sage scrub, conserving 75% of mapped gnatcatcher locations within conserved habitat, and maintain the regional linkages. The proposed development of the Muroya property complies with the conservation goals. 100% of the coastal sage scrub is preserved. All of the gnatcatcher locations on site are conserved within the open space. Although the focused surveys were done in 2006 and the typical "shelf life" of a focused survey is one year, because the surveys were positive and no change has occurred to the habitat, there is little reason to be concerned that the occupation of the site by the gnatcatcher has changed. This report assumes that the entire area of native habitat is occupied by the gnatcatcher. The project complies with the HMP in conserving the native habitat on site in order to provide a linkage function. Management for this species includes minimizing edge effects, controlling cowbirds and predators, preventing livestock overgrazing and preventing human disturbance. Other management goals are directed toward development of a City fire management plan and restoring coastal sage scrub. The proposed development of the Muroya property complies with the management goals for this species. The project proposes to provide fencing to prevent human intrusion, to provide a buffer to minimize edge effects, and provide habitat management to address cowbirds and predators. No livestock grazing has occurred or will occur on site. No impacts are proposed to coastal sage scrub, thus no restoration is proposed. Protection of nesting of the gnatcatcher will be provided by avoiding project vegetation clearing of occupied habitat from February 15 through August 30. 6.0 MITIGATION MEASURES The following plant communities are not considered sensitive and do not require mitigation: ornamental plantings and developed lands. The following will require mitigation in the form of an in-lieu mitigation fee in order to fund the acquisition of the MHCP core area: disturbed land and agriculture land. The following habitat types are considered sensitive and require mitigation: DUDEK 37 5332-01 February 2010 Biological Resources Technical Report and Impact Analysis for the Muroya Property southern maritime chaparral and southern mixed chaparral. Table 6 depicts the mitigation ratios for these sensitive plant communities in accordance with the Carlsbad HMP. Plant Community/Land Cover Southern Maritime Chaparral Southern Mixed Chaparral Table 6 Mitigation Ratios HMP Habitat Type B D Mitigation Ratio 3:1 1:1 Impacts to the plant communities as a result of the proposed development are summarized in the following Table 7. Plant communities or land covers that do not require mitigation or that are not proposed to be impacted are not included. The California Coastal Commission, in the HMP, has required that there be no net loss of these sensitive plant communities within the coastal zone. Thus, revegetation, substantial enhancement, or creation must account for at least 1: 1 of the mitigation. In addition, within the coastal zone, on-site mitigation by preservation is not allowed. Thus, all mitigation will need to be through purchase of off-site land or through revegetation of very disturbed lands as outlined in the HMP. The project proposes to conduct on-site restoration of suitable disturbed, agriculture or other non-functional habitat within the coastal zone for all of the impacts. Table 7 Significant Impacts and Proposed Mitigation Requirement (Acres) Existing Total Impacts from Proposed Mitigation Mitigation Habitat Acrea e Development, BMZ and 20-foot Buffer Ratio Requirement -+~~~-+~~~~~~~~-------+--------~r-~----~ Southern Maritime Chaparra_l-+-_5_.3_9_--l-------0._29_-,-___ --l----3_:1 __ -+-__ 0_.8_7_--l Southern Mixed Chaparral 0.77 0.05 1:1 0.05 ~---~------------~----~----~ The mitigation for the southern mantime chaparral and southern mixed chaparral will be accomplished through the on-site restoration of non-native habitat. These areas currently do not function as native habitat and have no native plant species present. A total of 0.87 acre of southern maritime chaparral will be restored. A total of 0.05 acre of southern mixed chaparral will also be restored. Within the on-site open space, and outside of the San Diego Gas and Electric (SDG&E) easement, there is sufficient acreage of potential restoration areas to satisfy the mitigation requirement. This acreage suitable for restoration totals 0.93 acre. The bulk of the potential restoration areas are in the southern portion of the site currently mapped as agriculture. If needed the northern portion of agriculture land will also be restored. If the restoration biologist feels it is more appropriate to restore all of the required mitigation area to southern maritime chaparral, this will satisfy the requirement for the southern mixed chaparral mitigation. Prior to DUDEK 38 5332-01 February 2010 Biological Resources Technical Report and Impact Analysis for the Muroya Property implementing the restoration activities, conceptual mitigation plans will be prepared and approved by the City and resource agencies. These plans will identify the location of the on-site restoration, the plant palette to be used and the goals and success criteria of the mitigation. A total of 8.51 acres of predominantly native habitat will be preserved within the on-site preserve area outside of the SDG&E easement. This preserve area will be managed in perpetuity by a habitat manager approved by the City and resource agencies. A non-wasting endowment will be provided for the purposes of the management of the habitat. A total of 1.31 acres of habitat will be located within the SDG&E easement that is not proposed to be impacted. This habitat will be preserved in its existing state through the implementation of the SDG&E Subregional Natural Community Conservation Plan (SDG&E 1995). t is possible that the impact to the 9 linear feet of the Waters of the U.S. will require mitigation. This will be determined during the resource agency confirmation of the delineation and possible permitting process. This will be determined during the permitting process. There is suitable enhancement opportunity within the proposed open space of the project. Other Mitigation Measures or Requirements Impacts to disturbed land are required to be mitigated through the payment of an In-Lieu Mitigation Fee (Table 8). At the time of the preparation of the HMP, the mitigation fee amount had not been set. The city will determine the amount for this fee. A total of 1.56 acres of disturbed land will be impacted and will require mitigation in the form of payment of this fee. Impacts to agriculture land due to the conversion of 7.90 acres will be subject to the Mello II Segment of the Local Coastal Program Agricultural Conversion Mitigation Fee. The Agricultural Conversion Mitigation fee is presently set at $10,000 per net converted acre of agricultural land. Table 8 Impacts and Mitigation for Disturbed Land and Agriculture Existing Total Impacts from Proposed Development, Habitat Acreage BMZ, 20-foot Buffer, and Restoration Activity Mitigation Requirement Disturbed Land 1.83 1.56 In-Lieu Mitigation Fee Mello II Segment of the Local Coastal Agriculture 7.90 7.90 Program Agricultural Conversion Mitigation Fee; $10,000 per acre In order to avoid impacting breeding and nesting birds in accordance to the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, a breeding/nesting bird survey shall be conducted prior to construction activities if they are to occur during the nesting season (February 15-August 31 ). Nests that are detected DUDEK 39 5332-01 February 2010 Biological Resources Technical Report and Impact Analysis for the Muroya Property within the proposed impact areas will be avoided until nesting is completed. A buffer zone of 500 feet will be established around any identified nests in coordination with the monitoring biologist. In order to avoid impacts to nesting California gnatcatchers, a pre-construction survey will be conducted. If the gnatcatcher is determined to be nesting on site, in order to avoid impacts to them, no vegetation removal will take place during the breeding season, February IS-August 30. The open space area will need to be protected by a conservation easement and a non-wasting endowment will need to be established for permanent management of the area. Title to the open space parcel will need to be transferred to an appropriate land trust entity. 7.0 ACKNOWLEDGMENTS The biological technical report was prepared by Clint J. Emerson and Paul M. Lemons; editing, revisions, and oversight was provided by Anita M. Hayworth, PhD; word processing was provided by Julie Corrales; graphics and GIS were provided by Martie Clemons. Field studies were provided by Clint Emerson, Scott Boczkiewicz, Michelle Balk, Tricia Wotipka, Anita Hayworth, and Paul Lemons. Resource agency coordination was provided by Anita Hayworth. 8.0 LITERATURE CITED American Ornithologists' Union. 2006. American Ornithologists' Union Check-List of North American Birds, Seventh Edition. Accessed at: http://www.aou.org/aou/birdlist.html. Beauchamp, M.R. 1986. A Flora of San Diego County, California. Sweetwater River Press, National City, CA Bond, S.I. 1977. 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. Carlsbad, City of. 1999. Habitat Management Plan for Natural Communities in the City of Carlsbad. Finalized in 2004. CDFG (California Department ofFish and Game). 2006a. Natural Diversity Data Base.Rarefind. Version 3.0.5. Computer database. March 3, 2006. DUDEK 40 5332-01 February 2010 r• ... --• • • -.. ---• -• -• -• -• -• -- -------.. .. .. -• IIIII • • - ... • • • IIIII • -• -• .. • -• Biological Resources Technical Report and Impact Analysis for the Muroya Property CDFG. 2006b. Natural Diversity Data Base.Special Animals. Biannual publication, mimeo. February 2006. 55 pp. CDFG. 2006c. Natural Diversity Data Base. Natural Diversity Data Base.Special Vascular Plants, Bryophytes, and Lichens List. Biannual publication, mimeo. May 2006. 96 pp. CDFG. 2006d. Natural Diversity Data Base. State and Federally Listed Endangered and Threatened Animals of California. Biannual publication, mimeo. April2006. 12 pp . CDFG. 2006e. Natural Diversity Data Base.State and Federally Listed Endangered and Threatened, and Rare Plants of California. Biannual publication, mimeo. May 2006 . 14 pp. CNPS (California Native Plant Society). 2001.lnventory of Rare and Endangered Plants of California. Special Publication No. 1 (6th Edition), Scientific Advisory Committee, California Native Plant Society, David P. Tibor, Convening Editor, Sacramento, California . CNPS. 2006.lnventory of Rare and Endangered Plants (online edition, v7-06d). California Native Plant Society. Sacramento, California. Accessed at: http://www .cnps.org/inventory Emmel, T.C. and J.F. Emmel. 1973. The Butterflies of Southern California. Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, Science Series 26:1-148 . Hickman, J.C. 1993. The Jepson Manual: Higher Plants ofCalifornia. University ofCalifornia Press, Berkeley. 1,400 pp . Holland, R.F. 1986. Preliminary descriptions of the terrestrial natural communities of California. Nongame-Heritage Program, California Department ofFish and Game. 156 pp . Jones, K.K. Jr., D.C. Carter, H.H. Genoways, R.S. Hoffman, and D.W. Rice. 1997. Revised Checklist of North American Mammals North of Mexico. Occasional Papers of the Museum of Texas Tech University, no. 143. San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG). 2001. Multiple Habitat Conservation Plan . SDG&E (San Diego Gas and Electric Company). 1995. Subregional Natural Community Conservation Plan. Real Estate Operations Natural Resource Group, DUDEK 41 5332-01 February 2010 Biological Resources Technical Report and Impact Analysis for the Muroya Property Stebbins, R.C. 2003. A Field Guide to Western Reptiles and Amphibians. Houghton Mifflin Co., Boston, Mass. Unitt, P.A. 1984. Birds of San Diego County. Memoir 13, San Diego Society ofNatural History. USFWS (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service). 1997. Coastal California Gnatcatcher (Polioptila califomica califomica) Presence/Absence Survey Protocol. July 28. USFWS. 2000. Carlsbad Fish and Wildlife Office. Occurrence Information for Multiple Species within Jurisdiction of the Carlsbad Fish and Wildlife Office (CFWO): U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Carlsbad Fish and Wildlife Office, Carlsbad, California, USA. DUDEK 42 5332-01 February 2010 • • -• ------------- • --• -.. -.. -.. -.. -• -• - -~------------------------------------------------~ --- • • • .. .. .. .. Ill • .. ' Ill • • • 1111 .. • .. .. APPENDIX A Wetland Delineation Forms -~----------------------------------------------~ ---.. - 1111 ill -.. • • • IIIII ill • Ill IIIII Ill Ill • IIIII .. Data Form Routine Wetland Determination (1987 COE Wetlands Delineation Manual) Project/Site: Muroya Property Date: 10/2/06 Applicant/Owner: Mr. and Mrs. Muroya County: San Diego Investigator: Emerson/Bocskiewicz State: CA Do Normal Circumstances exist on the site? ~ Yes D No Community ID: Is the site significantly disturbed (Atypical Situation)? D Yes ~ No Transect 10: Is the area a potential Problem Area? D Yes ~ No PlotiD: 1 (If needed, explain on reverse side.) VEGETATION inant Plant Species I Stratum I Indicator Dominant Plant Species I Stratum I Indicator Leymus condensatus H FACU Percent of Dominant Species that are OBL, FACW or FAC (excluding FAC-). <50% Remarks: HYDROLOGY 0 Recorded Data (Describe in Remarks): D Stream, Lake, or Tide Gauge D Aerial Photographs D Other 1Zl No Recorded Data Available Field Observations: Depth of Surface Water 0 Depth to Free Water in Pit >18 Depth to Saturated Soil: >12 in. in. in. Wetland Hydrology Indicators: Primary Indicators: D Inundated D Saturated in Upper 12 inches D Water Marks D Drift Lines 0 Sediment Deposits 0 Drainage Patterns in Wetlands Secondary Indicators 0 Oxidized Root Channels in Upper 12 inches 0 Water-Stained Leaves 0 Local Soil Survey Data 0 FAC-Neutral Test 0 Other (Explain in Remarks) Remarks: The data station occurs within a small flat area that appears to have very infrequent hydrologic activity but from other indicators (veg, soil) it seems likely there is not any hydrology present. Plot 10: 1 SOILS Map Unit Name (Series and Phase: Chesterton fine sandy loam (CfC), 5 to Drainage Class: well drained 9 percent Field Observations Taxonomy (Subgroup): Confirm Mapped Type? ~Yes 0No Profile Description Depth Matrix Mottle Colors Mottle Texture, Concretions, (inches) Horizon (Munsell Moist) (Munsell Moist) Abundance/Contrast Structure, etc. 0-8 A 10YR 6/5 none Sandy loam 8-B 10YR 5/5 none Sandy loam • 15 • • • • - - Hydric Soil Indicators: -D Histosol 0 Concretions 0 Histic Epipedon 0 High Organic Content in Surface Layer in Sandy Soils .. 0 Sulfidic Odor 0 Organic Streaking in Sandy Soils - 0 Aquic Moisture Regime 0 Listed on Local Hydric Soils List .. 0 Reducing Conditions 0 Listed on National Hydric Soils List 0 Gleyed or Low-Chroma Colors 0 Other (Explain in Remarks) - Remarks -.. WETLAND DETERMINATION -Hydrophytic Vegetation Present? 0 Yes ~ No Wetland Hydrology Present? 0 Yes 181 No .. Hydric Soils Present? 0 Yes 181 No Is this Sampling Point Within a Wetland? 0 Yes 181 No - Remarks: .. -.. - -• ---• • • • • • .. II • • Ill • .. • • • • II Project/Site: Data Form Routine Wetland Determination (1987 COE Wetlands Delineation Manual) Muroya Property Date: 10/2/06 Applicant/Owner: Mr. and Mrs. Muroya County: San Diego Investigator: Emerson/Bocskiewicz State: CA Do Normal Circumstances exist on the site? ~ Yes D No Community ID: Is the site significantly disturbed (Atypical Situation)? D Yes ~ No Transect 10: Is the area a potential Problem Area? D Yes ~ No PlotiD: 2 (If needed, explain on reverse side.) VEGETATION Dominant Plant Species I Stratum I Indicator Dominant Plant Species I Stratum J Indicator Leymus condensatus H FACU Percent of Dominant Species that are OBL, FACW or FAC (excluding FAC-). <50% Remarks: HYDROLOGY D Recorded Data (Describe in Remarks): D Stream, Lake, or Tide Gauge 0 Aerial Photographs 0 Other 1:83 No Recorded Data Available Field Observations: Depth of Surface Water 0 Depth to Free Water in Pit >18 Depth to Saturated Soil: >12 in. in. in. Wetland Hydrology Indicators: Primary Indicators: 0 Inundated D Saturated in Upper 12 inches D Water Marks 0 Drift Lines 0 Sediment Deposits 0 Drainage Patterns in Wetlands Secondary Indicators 0 Oxidized Root Channels in Upper 12 inches 0 Water-stained Leaves 0 Local Soil Survey Data 0 FAC-Neutral Test 0 Other (Explain in Remarks) Remarks: The data station occurs within a small flat area that appears to have very infrequent hydrologic activity but from other indicators (veg, soil) it seems likely there is not any hydrology present. Plot 10:2 SOILS Map Unit Name (Series and Phase: Chesterton fine sandy loam (CfC), 5 to Drainage Class: well drained 9 percent Field Observations Taxonomy (Subgroup): Confirm Mapped Type? ~Yes 0No Profile Description Depth Matrix Mottle Colors Mottle Texture, Concretions, (inches) Horizon (Munsell Moist) (Munsell Moist) Abundance/Contrast Structure, etc. 0-8 A 10YR 5/5 none Sandy loam 8-B 10YR 4/5 none Sandy loam 15 Hydric Soil Indicators: D Histosol D Concretions D Histic Epipedon D High Organic Content in Surface Layer in Sandy Soils D Sulfidic Odor D Organic Streaking in Sandy Soils D Aquic Moisture Regime D Listed on Local Hydric Soils List D Reducing Conditions D Listed on National Hydric Soils List D Gleyed or Low-Chroma Colors D Other (Explain in Remarks) Remarks WETLAND DETERMINATION Hydrophytic Vegetation Present? D Yes ~ No Wetland Hydrology Present? D Yes ~ No Hydric Soils Present? D Yes ~ No Is this Sampling Point Within a Wetland? DYes ~No Remarks: • • • • - • - • ----- IIIII - IIIII - IIIII - IIIII - - IIIII - -.. -.. -.. -.. - IIIII - ---.. -- -------.. -• .. .. • Ill .. • Ill IIIII - Project/Site: Data Form Routine Wetland Determination (1987 COE Wetlands Delineation Manual) Muroya Property Date: 10/2/06 Applicant/Owner: Mr. and Mrs. Muroya County: San Diego Investigator: Emerson/Bocskiewicz State: CA Do Normal Circumstances exist on the site? ~ Yes 0 No Community ID: Is the site significantly disturbed (Atypical Situation)? D Yes ~ No Transect ID: Is the area a potential Problem Area? D Yes ~ No Plot ID: 3 (If needed, explain on reverse side.) VEGETATION Dominant Plant Species I Stratum I Indicator Dominant Plant Species l Stratum l Indicator Foeniculum vulgare H FACU Xy/occocus bicolor SH UPL Sambucus Mexicana SH FACU Percent of Dominant Species that are OBL, FACW or FAC (excluding FAC-). <50% Remarks: HYDROLOGY D Recorded Data (Describe in Remarks): Wetland Hydrology Indicators: D Stream, Lake, or Tide Gauge Primary Indicators: 0 Aerial Photographs 0 Inundated D Other D Saturated in Upper 12 inches 181 No Recorded Data Available D WaterMarks D Drift Lines Field Observations: D Sediment Deposits Depth of Surface Water 0 in. D Drainage Patterns in Wetlands Secondary Indicators Depth to Free Water in Pit >18 in. D Oxidized Root Channels in Upper 12 inches D Water-Stained Leaves Depth to Saturated Soil: >12 in. D Local Soil Survey Data D FAC-Neutral Test D Other (Explain in Remarks) Remarks: A narrow channel occurs in the basin of the draw and it is likely that water travels through the area during high rainfall events for very short periods of time. Plot ID: 3 SOILS Map Unit Name Series and Phase: Chesterton fine sandy loam (CfC), 5 to Drainage Class: well drained 9 percent Field Observations Taxonomy (Subgroup): Confirm Mapped Type? ~Yes 0No Profile Description Depth Matrix Mottle Colors Mottle Texture, Concretions, (inches) Horizon (Munsell Moist) (Munsell Moist) Abundance/Contrast Structure, etc. 0-8 A 10YR 6/4 none Sandy loam 8-B 10YR 5/5 none Sandy loam 15 Hydric Soil Indicators: 0 Histosol D Concretions D Histic Epipedon D High Organic Content in Surface Layer in Sandy Soils D Sulfidic Odor D Organic Streaking in Sandy Soils D Aquic Moisture Regime 0 Listed on Local Hydric Soils List D Reducing Conditions D Listed on National Hydric Soils List D Gleyed or Low-Chroma Colors D Other (Explain in Remarks) Remarks WETLAND DETERMINATION Hydrophytic Vegetation Present? D Yes ~ No Wetland Hydrology Present? D Yes ~ No Hydric Soils Present? D Yes ~ No Is this Sampling Point Within a Wetland? DYes ~No Remarks: II • I I < .. .. -.. ------- • -• • ---• • • • .. .. .. ,.. i fill l ... Ill II - - Data Form Routine Wetland Determination (1987 COE Wetlands Delineation Manual) Project/Site: Muroya Property Date: 10/2/06 Applicant/Owner: Mr. and Mrs. Muroya County: San Diego Investigator: Emerson/Bocskiewicz State: CA Do Normal Circumstances exist on the site? ~ Yes D No Community ID: Is the site significantly disturbed (Atypical Situation)? D Yes ~ No Transect 10: Is the area a potential Problem Area? D Yes ~ No PlotiD: 4 (If needed, explain on reverse side.) VEGETATION Dominant Plant Species I Stratum I Indicator Dominant Plant Species I Stratum I Indicator Adenostoma fasciculatum SH UPL Artemisia califomica SH UPL Percent of Dominant Species that are OBL, FACW or FAC (excluding FAC-). <50% Remarks: HYDROLOGY 0 Recorded Data (Describe in Remarks): Wetland Hydrology Indicators: 0 Stream, Lake, or Tide Gauge Primary Indicators: D Aerial Photographs D Inundated D Other D Saturated in Upper 12 inches ~ No Recorded Data Available D WaterMarks D Drift Lines Field Observations: D Sediment Deposits Depth of Surface Water 0 in. D Drainage Patterns in Wetlands Secondary Indicators Depth to Free Water in Pit >18 in. D Oxidized Root Channels in Upper 12 inches D Water-Stained Leaves Depth to Saturated Soil: >12 in. D Local Soil Survey Data D FAC-Neutral Test D Other (Explain in Remarks) Remarks: A narrow channel occurs in the basin of the draw and it is likely that water travels through the area during high rainfall events for very short periods of time. Plot ID: 4 SOILS Map Unit Name Series and Phase: Chesterton fine sandy loam (CfC), 5 to Drainage Class: well drained 9 percent Field Observations Taxonomy (Subgroup): Confirm Mapped Type? ~Yes 0No Profile Description Depth Matrix Mottle Colors Mottle Texture, Concretions, (inches) Horizon (Munsell Moist) (Munsell Moist) Abundance/Contrast Structure, etc. 0-8 A 10YR 5/5 none Sandy loam 8-B 10YR 5/4 none Sandy loam 15 Hydric Soil Indicators: 0 Histosol 0 Concretions 0 Histic Epipedon 0 High Organic Content in Surface Layer in Sandy Soils 0 Sulfidic Odor 0 Organic Streaking in Sandy Soils 0 Aquic Moisture Regime 0 Listed on Local Hydric Soils List 0 Reducing Conditions 0 Listed on National Hydric Soils List 0 Gleyed or Low-Chroma Colors 0 Other (Explain in Remarks) Remarks WETLAND DETERMINATION Hydrophytic Vegetation Present? 0 Yes 181 No Wetland Hydrology Present? 0 Yes 181 No Hydric Soils Present? 0 Yes 181 No Is this Sampling Point Within a Wetland? 0 Yes 181 No Remarks: • .. • -• .. Ill .. • - - - --- • - --- - - - • - ' • I -~----------------------------------------~ ----- -.. -.. • -.. • I I • • = APPENDIX B List of Plant Species Observed on Site -~----------------------------------------~ ------ ... • • • .. • • • -.. -.. APPENDIX B List of Plant Species Observed on Site ANGIOSPERMAE (DICOTYLEDONES) ANGIOSPERMS (DICOTS) AIZOACEAE-FIG-MARIGOLD FAMILY * Carpobrotus edulis-hottentot-fig * Mesembryanthemum crystal/inurn -crystalline iceplant ANACARDIACEAE-SUMAC FAMILY Malosma laurina-laurel sumac Rhus integrifolia -lemonadeberry APIACEAE-CARROT FAMILY * Foeniculum vulgare-fennel ARALIACEAE-GINSENG FAMILY * Hedera helix-English ivy ASTERACEAE-SUNFLOWER FAMILY Ambrosia psilostachya -western ragweed Artemisia californica -California sagebrush Baccharis pilularis -chaparral broom, coyote brush Baccharis salicifolia-mulefat, seep-willow, water-wally Carduus pycnocephalus-Italian thistle Conyza canadensis -horseweed Heterotheca grandiflora-telegraph weed Deinandra [ =Hemizonia]fasciculata-fascicled tarweed Encelia californica-California encelia Gnaphalium californicum -California everlasting Jsocoma menziesii ssp. menziesii-spreading goldenbush Pluchea odorata-salt marsh fleabane Stephanomeria virgata ssp. virgata -virgate wreath-plant BRASSICACEAE-MUSTARD FAMILY * Brassica nigra-black mustard * Lobularia maritima -sweet alyssum * Raphanus sativus -radish DUDEK B-1 5332-01 February 2010 APPENDIX B (Continued) CACTACEAE-CACTUS FAMILY Opuntia littoralis-coastal prickly-pear Opuntia prolifera -coast cholla CAPRIFOLIACEAE-HONEYSUCKLE FAMILY Sambucus mexicana -Mexican elderberry CARYOPHYLLACEAE-PINK FAMILY Loejlingia squarrosa var. squarrosa-California loeflingia CHENOPODIACEAE-GOOSEFOOT FAMILY * Atriplex semibaccata-Australian saltbush * Chenopodium album -pigweed, lamb's quarters * Sa/sola tragus -Russian thistle, tumbleweed CRASSULACEAE-STONECROP FAMILY Dudleya edulis -ladies' fingers Dudleya pulverulenta-chalky live-forever ERICACEAE-HEATH FAMILY Xylococcus bicolor-mission manzanita EUPHORBIACEAE-SPURGE FAMILY Chamaesyce albomarginata -rattlesnake weed Eremocarpus setigerus -doveweed Ricinus communis -castor bean FABACEAE-PEAFAMILY Lotus scoparius var. scoparius-deerweed FAGACEAE-OAK FAMILY Quercus agrifolia var. agrifolia -coast live oak Quercus dumosa-Nuttall's scrub oak Quercus engelmannii-Engelmann oak or mesa oak HYDROPHYLLACEAE-WATERLEAF FAMILY Eriodictyon crassifolium var. crassifolium -thickleaf yerba santa LAMIACEAE-MINT FAMILY Salvia mellifera -black sage DUDEK B-2 • • E .. .. .. -.. -.. --------- • .. .. -----------,. • 5332-01 February 2010 • .. - -• -.. .. • -• • • .. • • • .. • APPENDIX B (Continued) POLYGONACEAE-BUCKWHEAT FAMILY Eriogonum fasciculatum var. foliolosum -California buckwheat * Rumex crispus -curly dock RHAMNACEAE-BUCKTHORN FAMILY Ceanothus verrucosus -wart-stemmed ceanothus ROSACEAE-ROSE FAMILY Adenostoma fasciculatum -chamise Heteromeles arbutifolia-toyon, Christmas berry SALICACEAE-WILLOW FAMILY Salix lasiolepis -arroyo willow SCROPHULARIACEAE-FIGWORT FAMILY Mimulus aurantiacus -coast monkey flower, bush monkey flower Scrophularia californica var. jloribunda-California figwort SOLANACEAE-NIGHTSHADE FAMILY * Nicotiana glauca-tree tobacco Solanum xanti -chaparral nightshade ANGIOSPERMS (MONOCOTS) LILIACEAE-LILY FAMILY Yucca schidigera-Mohave yucca POACEAE-GRASS FAMILY * A vena barbata -slender wild oat * Bromus diandrus -ripgut grass * Cortaderia selloana -pampas grass Leymus condensatus -giant wild rye Melica imperfecta-coast range melic * Schismus barbatus -Mediterranean schismus * Vulpia myuros var. myuros -rattail fescue * signifies introduced (non-native) species DUDEK B-3 5332-01 February 2010 • • APPENDIX B (Continued) • .. Ill! -----• ------- INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK ---- • -• ---.. ---.. --- DUDEK 8-4 5332-01 February 2010 ,. .. -~------------------------------------------~ ----• -• -• -... --APPENDIX C --Wildlife Species Observed on Site .. - -• -• • i -~------------------------------------------~ -------.. -.. -----• • - • • • • APPENDIX C Wildlife Species Observed on Site VERTEBRATES REPTILES IGUANIDAE-IGUANID LIZARDS Sceloporus occidentalis -western fence lizard BIRDS PHASIANIDAE-PHEASANTS AND QUAILS Callipepla californica -California quail COLUMBIDAE-PIGEONS AND DOVES * Columba Iivia-rock dove TROCHILIDAE-HUMMINGBIRDS Calypte anna-Anna's hummingbird PICIDAE-WOODPECKERS Colaptes auratus -northern flicker TYRANNIDAE-TYRANTFLYCATCHERS Sayornis nigricans -black phoebe Tyrannus vociferans -Cassin's kingbird CORVIDAE-JAYS AND CROWS Aphelocoma californica -western scrub-jay Corvus brachyrhynchos -American crow Corvus corax-common raven AEGJTHALIDAE-BUSHTITS Psaltriparus minimus -bushtit TROGLODYTIDAE-WRENS Thryomanes bewickii -Bewick's wren Troglodytes aedon -house wren REGULIDAE-KINGLETS Regulus calendula-ruby-crowned kinglet DUDEK C-1 5332-01 February 2010 APPENDIX C (Continued) SYLVIIDAE-GNATCATCHERS Polioptila californica-California gnatcatcher TIMALIIDAE-LAUGHINGTHRUSH AND WRENTIT Chamaea fascial a-wrentit MIMIDAE-THRASHERS Mimus polyglottos -northern mockingbird STURN/DAB-STARLINGS * Sturnus vulgaris -European starling PARULIDAE-WOOD WARBLERS Dendroica coronata -yellow-romped warbler EMBERIZIDAE-BUNTINGS AND SPARROWS Chondestes grammacus -lark sparrow Melospiza melodia -song sparrow Pipilo crissalis -California towhee Pipilo maculatus -spotted towhee Zonotrichia leucophrys -white-crowned sparrow FRINGILLIDAE-FINCHES Carpodacus mexicanus -house finch Carduelis psaltria -lesser goldfinch MAMMALS LEPORIDAE-HARES AND RABBITS Sylvilagus bachmani-brush rabbit SCIURIDAE-SQUIRRELS Spermophilus beecheyi -California ground squirrel MURIDAE-RATS AND MICE Neotoma sp. -woodrat (midden) Peromyscus sp.-mouse (sign) CANIDAE-WOLVES AND FOXES Canis latrans -coyote DUDEK C-2 • • • • Ill -• -,. • , .. " ... • -• ---• .. • -• -----------5332-01 February 2010 -- ------• --.. .. • • • Ill • • Ill APPENDIX C (Continued) WILDLIFE SPECIES -INVERTEBRATES BUTTERFLIES AND MOTHS PIERIDAE-WHITES AND SULFURS Pieris rapae rapae -cabbage butterfly Pontia sisymbrii-California white LYCAENIDAE-BLUES, HAIRSTREAKS, AND COPPERS Glaucopsyche lygdamus -southern blue NYMPHAL/DAB-BRUSH-FOOTED BUTTERFLIES Junonia coenia-buckeye Vanessa cardui -painted lady * signifies introduced (non-native) species DUDEK C-3 5332-01 February 2010 ' • APPENDIX C (Continued) I • • • • • -• ---.. -.. - INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK .. -.. -.. -----.. ------- DUDEK C-4 5332-01 February 2010 -- -~--------------------------------------------~ ---.. .. • 111111 .. APPENDIX D .. California Gnatcatcher Focused Survey Report . ~--------------------------------------------~ -- ----.. .. 41111 DUDEK COt\f!C~.:..,i[ Of?:,:-;: e(J5 l!-"l;:~· s r 'th· November 13,2006 U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Attn: Recovery Permit Coordinator 6010 Hidden Valley Road Carlsbad, California 92009 5332-01 Subject: 2006 Focused Presence-Absence California Gnatcatcher Survey Report for the Muroya Property, City of Carlsbad, San Diego County, California. Permit #'s TE-781084 and TE-051248-2 Dear Recovery Permit Coordinator: This report documents the results of three protocol-level presence/absence surveys for the coastal California gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica californica; CAGN) which were conducted at the approximately 20-acre Muroya property by Dudek biologists in October and November 2006. The surveys were conducted in all areas of suitable habitat. The CAGN is a federally-listed threatened species and a California Department of Fish and Game species of special concern. It is closely associated with coastal sage scrub habitat and typically occurs below 950 feet elevation and on slopes less than 40% (Atwood 1990), but CAGN have been observed at elevations greater than 2,000 feet. The species is threatened primarily by loss, degradation, and fragmentation of coastal sage scrub habitat and is also impacted by brown-headed cowbird (Molothrus ater; cowbird) nest parasitism. LOCATION AND EXISTING CONDITIONS The Muroya property is jurisdictionally located within the City of Carlsbad, San Diego County, California. The study area is physically located along the west side of Black Rail Rd., a secondary street off A viara Parkway (Figure 1). The property is situated centrally within the USGS 7.5 minute Encinitas quadrangle, T12S, R4W; Section 28 (Figure 2). Approximately 8 acres of the study area is currently being used a palm tree nursery. This includes shade houses, outbuildings and associated access roads. A single family residence is located in the southeastern portion of the property. The remaining area is undeveloped and dominated by native vegetation. Surrounding land use is currently developed as single family residential homes. Recovery Permit Coordinator Re: 2006 Focused Presence-Absence California Gnatcatcher Survey Report for the Muroya Property, City of Carlsbad, San Diego County, California. Permit #'s TE-781084 and TE-051248 The topography onsite consists of a flat bench where the nursery and single family home are located. From the bench the topography slopes quickly down into a network of incised ravines that are oriented from east to west/southwest. Elevations range from approximately 50 to 180 feet above mean sea level (AMSL). The soil types onsite, according to the San Diego County Soil Survey (Bowman 1973), include Chesterton fine sandy loam (CfC), 5 to 9 percent slopes; Chesterton fine sandy loam (CfD2), 9 to 15 percent slopes; and rough broken lands (RuG). Chesterton fine sandy loams occur on coastal ridges and are moderately well drained with a sandy clay subsoil. The soils were formed in material weathered in place from soft ferruginous sandstone. Rough broken land is made up of well-drained to excessively drained, steep and very steep land dissected by many narrow v- shaped valleys and divides. Areas of exposed soils is common making runoff very rapid and creating a high potential for erosion. VEGETATION COMMUNITIES Based on species composition and general physiognomy, two native plant communities or habitat types with potential to support California gnatcatcher were identified in the project study area: coastal sage scrub and baccharis scrub. Areas of southern maritime chaparral and southern mixed chaparral occurring onsite also were surveyed for CAGN. These four habitat types are described below. The quantity of each of the vegetation communities is shown in Table I. TABLE 1 ACREAGES OF EXISTING VEGETATION COMMUNITIES SUITABLE FOR CALIFORNIA GNATCATCHER FOR THE MUROYA PROPERTY I Coastal Sage Scrub I Baccharis Scrub I Southern Maritime Chaparral I Southern Mixed Chaparral DUDEK 2 2.0 0.02 5.4 0.8 5332-01 November 2006 Recovery Permit Coordinator Re: 2006 Focused Presence-Absence California Gnatcatcher Survey Report for the Muroya Property, City of Carlsbad, San Diego County, California. Permit #'s TE-781084 and TE-051248 Coastal Sage Scrub 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 (Eriogonum fasciculatum), and sages (Salvia spp.); with scattered evergreen shrubs, including lemonadeberry (Rhus integrifolia), laurel sumac (Malosma laurina), and toyon (Heteromeles arbutifolia). It typically develops on south-facing slopes and other xeric situations. Two areas of coastal sage scrub were found within the study area. One large area in the southwestern portion of the project is characterized by narrow ridges dissecting incised gullies with exposed barren soils. The second small polygon is along the western portion of the property and occurs on a short steep slope that quickly intergrades into southern maritime chaparral. A total of 2.0 acres of coastal sage scrub were mapped within the study area. Baccharis Scrub Baccharis scrub is an upland community that is most closely related to coastal sage scrub. Although not listed as a native plant community by Holland (1986), it is recognized by SANDAG as a subtype of coastal sage scrub. Baccharis scrub typically develops in drainage bottoms or mesic floodplains following disturbance to the native plant community. This community is dominated by coyote brush (Baccharis pilularis), with a few successional elements of the former native community, including California sagebrush, flat-top buckwheat, coast goldenbush (Isocoma menziesii), or other disturbance-tolerant native plants. The understory usually includes a variety of non-native herbs and grasses. A small polygon of Baccharis scrub was found along the southern boundary of the study area. The polygon continues to the south off of the property. Within the study area there were 0.02 acres of Baccharis scrub mapped. 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 dumosum), and Nuttall's scrub oak (Quercus dumosa). Other DUDEK 3 5332-01 November 2006 Recovery Permit Coordinator Re: 2006 Focused Presence-Absence California Gnatcatcher Survey Report for the Muroya Property, City of Carlsbad, San Diego County, California. Permit #'s TE-781084 and TE-051248 shrubs encountered frequently in this community are chamise (Adenostoma fasciculatum), lemonadeberry, laurel sumac, toyon, and summer-holly (Comarostaphlyis diversifolia). Within the study area, southern maritime chaparral consists primarily of Nuttall's scrub oak, wart-stemmed ceanothus, chamise, and mission manzanita (Xylococcus bicolor). Understory species include monkey-flower (Mimulus aurantiacus) and black sage (Salvia mellifera). Southern maritime chaparral is well distributed within the undeveloped portion of the property accounting for a majority of the area. There were 5.4 acres of southern maritime chaparral mapped within the study area. Southern Mixed Chaparral Southern mixed chaparral is characterized by broad-leaved sclerophyll shrubs generally 1.5-3 meters tall forming dense impenetrable vegetation dominated by a mix of chaparral, lemonade berry, toyon, manzanita species and Nuttall's scrub oak. It is usually found on north facing slopes in dry rocky areas and is often adjacent to chamise chaparral, southern maritime chaparral and coastal sage scrub vegetation associations. Within the study area southern mixed chaparral occurs as a large polygon on a steep rocky north facing slope in the southern portion of the site. Dominant species include toyon and lemonade berry. There were 0.8 acres mapped as southern mixed chaparral within the study area. METHODS Surveys were conducted under the authorization of permits TE78l 084 (Dr. Anita M. Hayworth; AMH) and TE051248-l (Paul M. Lemons; PML) according to the schedule provided in Table 2. The survey followed the most current protocol established by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Coastal California Gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica californica) Presence/A bsence Survey Protocol (July 28, 1997). Suitable habitat within the project was surveyed three times for the CAGN and included coastal sage scrub and baccharis scrub onsite. Southern maritime chaparral and southern mixed chaparral occurring onsite was also surveyed for CAGN. The route selected ensured complete coverage of all suitable habitat within the study area (Figure 3). A topographic map of the site (scale l"= 100') overlain with vegetation polygons was used for the survey. Weather conditions during surveys are provided in Table 2. Binoculars (7x50) were used to aid in detecting and identifying bird species. Taped gnatcatcher vocalizations were played frequently in order to DUDEK 4 5332-01 November 2006 Recovery Permit Coordinator Re: 2006 Focused Presence-Absence California Gnatcatcher Survey Report for the Muroya Property, City of Carlsbad, San Diego County, California. Permit #'s TE-781084 and TE-051248 elicit a response from the species, if present. The tape was played approximately every 50-100 feet within suitable habitat. When a gnatcatcher was detected, playing of the tape ceased in order to avoid harassment and the gnatcatcher location was recorded on the site map. TABLE 2 2006 MUROYA PROPERTY COASTAL CALIFORNIA GNATCATCHER SURVEYS 0810-1035 0% cloud cover; wind 3-5 mph ; 62-69 degrees F Approximately 8.2 0715-1045 80%-5% cloud cover, wind 0-4 mph; 61-70 Approximately 8.2 degrees F RESULTS Two CAGN pairs were observed onsite. One pair was observed in the southern portion of the site and one pair was observed in the central portion of the site. Both pairs were observed foraging within coastal sage scrub and southern maritime chaparral. Thirty-seven (3 7) species of wildlife were observed during the surveys. A full list of wildlife species observed during the survey is provided in Appendix A. I certify that the information in this survey report and attached exhibits fully and accurately represents my work. Please feel free to contact me at (760) 479-4238 with questions or if you require additional information. Very truly yours, Paul M. Lemons Wildlife Biologist TE051248-2 att: Figures I through 3 DUDEK 5 5332-01 November 2006 Recovery Permit Coordinator Re: 2006 Focused Presence-Absence California Gnatcatcher Survey Report for the Muroya Property, City of Carlsbad, San Diego County, California. Permit #'s TE-781084 and TE-051248 cc: Taylor Woodrow Homes, Inc.-April Tornillo Anita Hayworth-Dudek REFERENCES Atwood, J.L. 1990. Status revtew of the California gnatcatcher (Polioptila california). Unpublished technical report, Manomet Bird Observatory, Manomet, Massachusetts. 79 pp. Atwood, J.L., D.R. Bontrager, M. Fugagli, R. Hirsch, D. Kamada, M. Madden, C. Reynolds, S. Tsai, and P.A. Bowler. 1998. Population dynamics, dispersal, and demography of California gnatcatchers and cactus wrens in coastal southern California (1997 progress report). Unpublished report, Manomet Center for Conservation Sciences, Manomet, Massachusetts and University of California, Irvine, Irvine, California. 41 pp. + 5 appendices. Bowman, R. H. 1973. Soil Survey, San Diego Area, California, Part 1. United States Department of the Agriculture. 104 pp. + appendices. Holland, R. F. 1986. Preliminary descriptions of the terrestrial natural communities of California. Nongame-Heritage Program, California Department ofFish and Game. USFWS. 1993. Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Determination of Threatened Status for the Coastal California Gnatcatcher. Final Rule. Federal Register Vol. 58, No. 59: 16742-16757. DUDEK 6 5332-01 November 2006 -------.. ... .. • • .. WILDLIFE SPECIES -VERTEBRATES REPTILES IGUANIDAE -IGUANID LIZARDS Sceloporos graciosus -sagebrush lizard Sceloporos occidentalis -western fence lizard BIRDS PHASIANIDAE -PHEASANTS & QUAILS Callipepla califomica -California quail COLUMBIDAE-PIGEONS & DOVES * Columba Iivia -rock dove TROCHILIDAE -HUMMINGBIRDS Calypte anna -Anna's hummingbird PICIDAE -WOODPECKERS Colaptes auratus -northern flicker TYRANNIDAE-TYRANTFLYCATCHERS Sayomis nigricans -black phoebe Tyrannus vociferans -Cassin's kingbird CORVIDAE-JAYS & CROWS Aphelocoma californica -western scrub-jay Corvus brachyrhynchos -American crow Corvus corax -common raven AEGITHALIDAE -BUSHTITS Psaltriparos minimus -bushtit TROGLODYTIDAE -WRENS Thryomanes bewickii -Bewick's wren Troglodytes aedon -house wren DUDEK 5332-01 November 2006 WILDLIFE SPECIES -VERTEBRATES REGULIDAE -KINGLETS Regulus calendula -ruby-crowned kinglet SYLVIIDAE-GNATCATCHERS Polioptila californica -California gnatcatcher TIMALIIDAE -LAUGHINGTHRUSH AND WRENTIT Chamaea fascia fa -wrentit MIMIDAE-THRASHERS Mimus polyglottos -northern mockingbird STURNIDAE-STARLINGS * Sturnus vulgaris -European starling PARULIDAE-WOOD WARBLERS Dendroica coronata -yellow-romped warbler EMBERIZIDAE-BUNTINGS & SPARROWS Chondestes grammacus -lark sparrow Melospiza melodia -song sparrow Pipilo crissalis -California towhee Pipilo maculatus -spotted towhee Zonotrichia leucophrys -white-crowned sparrow FRINGILLIDAE -FINCHES Carpodacus mexicanus -house finch Carduelis psaltria -lesser goldfinch MAMMALS LEPORIDAE -HARES & RABBITS Sylvilagus bachmani-brush rabbit SCIURIDAE-SQUIRRELS Spermophilus beecheyi -California ground squirrel DUDEK 2 • ... -... -... .. .. ------------------... ------- • .. 5332-01 November 2006 ... - WILDLIFE SPECIES -VERTEBRATES MURIDAE-RATS & MICE Neotoma sp. -woodrat (midden) Peromyscus sp. -mouse (sign) ,,.._ CANIDAE-WOLVES & FOXES • Canis latrans -coyote '" • • .. • • .. WILDLIFE SPECIES -INVERTEBRATES BUTTERFLIES AND MOTHS PIERIDAE -WHITES AND SULFURS Pieris rapae rapae -cabbage butterfly Pontia sisymbrii -California white LYCAENIDAE -BLUES, HAIRSTREAKS, & COPPERS Glaucopsyche lygdamus -southern blue NYMPHALIDAE -BRUSH-FOOTED BUTTERFLIES * Junonia coenia -buckeye Vanessa cardui -painted lady signifies introduced (non-native) species DUDEK 3 5332-01 November 2006