HomeMy WebLinkAboutSDP 01-01; Pacifica Palomar Office Building; Site Development Plan (SDP) (3)eoviromnentBl plennifig, iiic.
8100 La Mesa Blvd., Suite 150 ^000 SHA-01
La Mesa, CA 91941-6452
fax (619) 462-0552 Mr. Ali Shapouri, AlCP
/^fnw^o Shapouri & Associates phone (619) 462-1515 „ ^ . „ , ^ . .
16085 San Dieguito Road, Suite E-1
Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067-6221
Subject: Biological Conditions and Constraints at the Pacific
Enterprises Site
Dear Ali:
Based on surveys conducted by HELIX Environmental Planning (HELIX),
this letter report describes existing biological conditions and addresses
potential project biological constraints for the 17.0-acre Pacific Enterprises
property in the City of Carlsbad, Califomia (City). This analysis includes
information that w^ould satisfy review of site development under the federal
Clean Water Act (including Section 401 vv^ater quality certification
requirements with the Regional Water Quality Control Board), federal and
state Endangered Species Acts (ESAs), California Fish and Game Code, Draft
North Cotmty Multiple Habitat Conservation Program (MHCP) and the City
of Carlsbad Habitat Management Plan (HMP). This report also addresses
applicable requirements of the City of Carlsbad Local Coastal Program
(LCP).
INTRODUCTION
The Pacific Enterprises property consists of two parcels totaling
approximately 17.0 acres in the City of Carlsbad, in northwestem San Diego
County, California (Figure 1). The site is located approximately 0.75 mile
southwest of McClellan Airport and just south of the Palomar Airport
Road/Aviara Parkway intersection (Figure 2). South of the site is
undeveloped, as is land to the east and north (i.e. beyond Palomar Airport
Road).
The majority of the Pacific Enterprises property is level, with one main
drainage traversing tlie soutiiem portion of the eastern parcel and the
northern portion of the western parcel. This drainage flows westward for
several miles before draining into the Pacific Ocean. The majority of the site
consists of disturbed habitat, with native vegetation communities (including
freshwater marsh, southem willow scmb and southem mixed chaparral)
existing along the length of the drainage and on the steep slope along the
southem boundary of the eastem parcel. On-site elevations range from
approximately 100 feet to 160 feet above mean sea level.
I RIVERSIDE
COUNTY
NOT TO SCALE
Regional Location IVlap
PACIFIC ENTERPRISES
Figure 1
Scale: 1" = 2000'
Source: USGS T.Smln Quadrangles; Encinitas, San Luis Rey «N
HELIX
Project Vicinity l\/lap
PACIFIC ENTERPRISES
Figure 2
Letter Report to Mr. Ali Shapouri
May 18, 2000
Page 2
Two soil types are present on the Pacific Enterprises property. The majority
of the site consists of Visalia sandy loam (2 to 5 percent slopes), typically
found in alluvial fans and floodplains, while Diablo clay (15 to 30 percent
slopes) is located on steep slopes in the southern portion of the eastem
parcel. Although neither of these soil types is listed as hydric (USDA 1992),
inundated and/ or saturated conditions that meet the mirumum requirements
for hydric soils, and the accompanying establishment of wetland vegetation,
has occurred in portions of the main drainage.
From a regional standpoint, the Pacific Enterprises Property is part of the
City of Carlsbad's Habitat Management Plan (HMP; 1999) area and the
northem San Diego County draft Multiple Habitat Conservation Plan
(MHCP) study area. These plans propose to preserve open space in a viable
network of large blocks and cormecting linkages in northwestem San Diego
Coimty. This project site is located within the Local Facility Management
Zone (LFMZ) Number 5 of the City of Carlsbad HMP. The project site is also
within the Mello II Segment of the Carlsbad LCP.
METHODS
Two site visits were conducted to map vegetation, identify plant species
present, record wildlife species observed, identify additional focused survey
requirements, and perform a jurisdictional delineation. Field work was
conducted on April 12 and 13, 2000, by W. Larry Sward and Sally Tmka.
Vegetation was mapped on a topographic map at a scale of 1 inch equals 100
feet.
The general botanical survey was performed by walking portions of all
habitat types present on site and noting all of the plant species that were
observed. Sensitive plant species were searched for opportunistically during
the general survey. Additional potentially-occurring plcuit species were
determined by conducting a habitat-based analysis of the knovm distribution
of sensitive species in the City of Carlsbad.
Wildlife survey techniques included searching all habitats for anticipated
wildlife species that could occur. All habitat types were searched for wildlife
presence or sign and all observations were noted during the surveys.
Additional potentially-occurring animal species were detenrdned by
conducting a habitat-based analysis of the knovm distribution of sensitive
species in the City of Carlsbad.
A jurisdictional delineation was also conducted within the project site,
following methods prescribed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE,
Environmental Laboratory 1987). Potential jiirisdictional areas were
Letter Report to Mr. Ali Shapouri
May 18, 2000
Page 3
investigated for evidence of vegetation, hydrology, and soils that are
characteristic of wetland areas. In addition to identifying wetiand areas,
non-wetland Waters of the U.S. within drainages were determined by the
ordinary high water mark (OHWM) and bed and bank topography.
Califomia Department of Fish and Game (CDFG) jurisdictional areas were
determined based on the presence of wetland vegetation or a stieambed.
Complete details of the ACOE and CDFG delineation efforts are provided in
a separate jurisdictional delineation report (HELIX 2000).
Nomenclature for this report is from Hickman, ed. (1993) for scientific plant
names; Beauchamp (1986) for common plant names; Holland (1986) for
vegetation communities; Opler (1999) for butterflies; Collins (1990) for
reptiles and amphibians; the American Ornithologist's Union (1998) for
birds; and Jones et al. (1992) for mammals. Sensitive plant and animal status
is taken from Califorrua Department of Fish and Game (CDFG) compiled
Usts (1999, 2000a, and 2000b).
EXISTING CONDITIONS
Vegetation
The site supports three native vegetation communities: freshwater marsh;
southem willow scmb (including disturbed); and southem mixed chaparral,
as well as disturbed habitat and non-wetland Waters of the U.S. (ephemeral
drainage, see Figure 3 and Table 1).
Table 1
VEGETATION COMMUNITIES
Vegetation Community Acreage
Wetlands
Freshwater marsh 0.2
Southem willow scmb 2.0
Southem willow scmb - disturbed 0.3
Uplands
Southern mixed chaparral 2.0
Disturbed habitat 12.2
Other
Ephemeral drainage 0.3
TOTAL 17.0
150 150 300 Feet
Note:
This map is based on site conditions as observed at the time of our field
investigations. The information presented herein was developed by visual
inspection and/or aerial photograph interpretation. Note that both site
conditions and applicable regulatory requirements may change. Job No: SHA-01 Date: 5/15/00
HELIX
Existing Conditions
PACIHC ENTERPRISES
Figure 3
Letter Report to Mr. Ali Shapouri Page 4
May 18, 2000
Wetlands
Freshwater Marsh
Coastal and valley freshwater marsh is dominated by perennial, emergent
monocots which reach a height of 12-15 feet. This vegetation type occurs
along the coast and in coastal valleys near river mouths and around the
margins of lakes and springs. These areas are permanently flooded by fresh
water yet lack a significant current (Holland 1986). Characteristic species
include riparian monocots such as cattails {Typha sp.), spike sedge {Eleocharis
sp.), msh (Juncus sp.), and umbrella sedge {Cyperus sp.). On site vegetation
in this habitat is dominated by bulmsh [Scirpus sp.) and cattails {Typha sp.).
Approximately 0.2 acre of freshwater marsh occurs along the drainage in the
westem parcel.
Southem Willow Scmb
Southem willow scmb is a riparian plant community that is dominated by
willows {Salix sp.). The dominant species within this habitat on site include
arroyo willow {Salix lasiolepis) and Fremont cottonwood {Populus fremontii).
Approximately 2.0 acres of southern willow scmb and an additional 0.3 acre
of disturbed southern willow scmb occur along the drainage within the
eastem parcel.
Uplands
Southem Mixed Chaparral
Southem mixed chaparral is composed of broad-leaved, sclerophyllous
shrubs (i.e., containing leaves with a thick waxy coat to reduce water loss
from evapo-transpiration) that grow to about 6 to 10 feet tall and form dense
often nearly impenetrable stands. This habitat occurs on dry, rocky, often
steep north-facing slopes with little soil. As conditions become more mesic
(or drier), broad-leaved, sclerophyllous shmbs that resprout from
imderground root crowns become dominant. On-site dominant plant species
observed within this habitat include toyon {Heteromeles arbutifolia) and
lemonadeberry {Rhus integrifolia). Other species observed include coyote
bush {Baccharis pilularis), fuschia-flowered gooseberry {Ribes spedosum), and
Califomia encelia {Encelia californica). Approximately 2.0 acres of southern
mixed chaparral occur on site.
Disturbed Habitat
Disturbed areas occur where native habitat has recently been disced, cleared,
or otherwise altered. Some disturbed areas contain little, if any, vegetation.
epifoninfiiita
Letter Report to Mr. Ali Shapouri
May 18, 2000
Page 5
Other areas include mderal vegetation dominated by non-native, weedy
species. Many of the species characteristic of disturbed habitat also occur in
non-native grassland, but disturbed habitat is dominated by invasive species
other than grasses. On site disturbed habitat occurs on all level portions of
the site. This habitat is presumed to have been created during non-irrigated
agricultural activities common to the local area. Vegetation is dominated by
a variety of annual forbes including mustard {Brassica sp.), filaree {Erodium
spp.) and iceplant {Mesembryanthemum spp.), and to a lesser extent by non-
native grasses such as wild oat {Avena spp.), brome {Bromus spp.) and
ryegrass {Lolium perenne). Approximately 12.2 acres of disturbed habitat
occur on site.
Other
Ephemeral Drainages
Ephemeral drainages consists of non-vegetated channels that conduct
ephemeral water flows, mostly during the winter rainy season. On site, one
main ephemeral drainage tiaverses the site from east to west. This drainage
is largely smooth-bottomed with sandy soils and a defined bed and bank
topography created by periodic water flow and scouring during storm
events. The drainage averages between 8 and 12 feet in width along its
length. At fhe time of the site surveys portions of the drainage contained
water, likely resulting as mnoff from recent rainfall events. Approximately
0.3 acre of ephemeral drainage occurs on site.
Plants
No sensitive plant species were observed on site during the botanical survey,
although a total of 17 sensitive species were determined to have the potential
to occur (Attachment 1). These species include one federal- and state-listed
endangered species (Orcutt's spineflower [Chorizanthe orcuttiana]), and two
federal-listed threatened and state-listed endangered species (thread-leaved
brodiaea [Brodiaeafilifolia] and San Diego thommint [Acanthomintha ilicifolia]).
Sensitive species listed in this report include Federal- and State-listed species,
NCCP Target Species, Carlsbad HMP Covered Species, and priority plant
species in the draft MHCP (SANDAG 1997).
A rare plant survey will be conducted in May 2000 to search the site for
potentially occurring sensitive plant species.
Animals
No sensitive animal species were observed on site during the general
zoological survey although a total of 28 sensitive species were determined to
Letter Report to Mr. Ali Shapouri
May 18, 2000
Page 6
have the potential to occur on site (Attachment 2). These species include two
federally-listed endangered species (southwestern willow flycatcher
[Empidonax traillii extimus] and least Bell's vireo [Vireo bellii pusillus]).
Sensitive species listed in this report include Federal- and State-listed species.
Target Species or Other Sensitive Species in the Carlsbad HMP, and priority
plant species in the draft MHCP (SANDAG 1997).
A focused survey for the least Bell's vireo is in progress, with this species not
observed on site to date. As part of the ongoing surveys for the vireo, the site
has also been assessed for potential as southem willow flycatcher habitat.
The potential habitat areas along the on-site drainage are considered to be
poor quality and the probability that fhe flycatcher would use this area is
very low.
Jurisdictional Areas
Wetland habitats are considered sensitive by local (City of Carlsbad 1999),
state (CDFG [Holland 1986]), and federal [ACOE]) agencies. They are
regulated by the ACOE under Section 404 of the Clean Water. Act and by fhe
CDFG under the Section 1600 of the Califomia Fish and Game Code. Details
of the jurisdictional delineation results are summarized below, with specific
information provided in the referenced wetland delineation report (HELIX
2000).
Federal (ACOE) jurisdictional areas on the Pacific Enterprises property are
present within and along the perimeter of the main on-site drainage. ACOE
jurisdictional areas consist of approximately 0.2 acre of wetlands as
freshwater marsh and 0.3 acre of non-wetland Waters of the U.S. as
ephemeral drainage.
State (CDFG) jurisdictional areas on the project site total 2.8 acres and
include all ACOE jurisdictional areas (wetlands and non-wetiand Waters of
the U.S.), as well as additional riparian habitat that meets CDFG jurisdiction
vegetation requirements. CDFG jurisdictional areas consist of 0.2 acre of
freshwater marsh, 2.3 acre of southem willow scmb (including disturbed),
and 0.3 acre of stieambed.
REGIONAL CONTEXT
The City of Carlsbad HMP is a Natural Communities Conservation Planning
Act (NCCP) subarea plan, addressing potential impacts to native species and
habitats while at the same time providing mitigation options that satisfy the
federal and state ESAs. The primary objective of fhe HMP is to identify and
maintain a preserve system that allows for the sustained existence of animals
Letter Report to Mr. Ali Shapouri
May 18, 2000
Page 7
and plants at both the local and regional levels. The HMP preserve is a
network of large habitat blocks with intercormecting linkages.
The Pacific Enterprises property is not located within any City of Carlsbad
HMP designated Focus Planning Areas, Linkages, or Special Resource Areas.
The project site is, however, located immediately north and west of Linkage
Area F. This linkage connects Core 6 and Core 8 FPA's and is intended to
serve primarily as a stepping-stone linkage for birds. The linkage consists
mainly of coastal sage scrub and chaparral habitats.
The project site is located within the Mello II Segment of the Carlsbad LCP,
with the principal objectives of this plan including protection of coastal
waters and associated tiibutaries.
ANTICIPATED CONSTRAINTS AND MITIGATION REQUIREMENTS
The primary constiaint on the Pacific Enterprises Property is the presence of
ACOE and CDFG jurisdictional areas, as well as associated setback (buffer)
requirements related to federal, state and local criteria. A total of 0.2 acre of
ACOE jurisdictional wetlands and 0.3 acre of ACOE jurisdictional non-
wetland Waters of the U.S. occur on site. CDFG jurisdictional areas include
all ACOE jurisdictional areas, as well as an additional 2.3 acres of southem
willow scmb habitat.
Impacts to ACOE jurisdictional areas are regulated by the ACOE under
Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (33 U.S.C. 1344). Wetland areas are
regulated under a "no net loss" policy by the ACOE, and any impacts to
ACOE jurisdictional wetlands areas would require mitigation at appropriate
ratios. The currently proposed development of the Pacific Enterprises
property would avoid direct impacts to all ACOE wetiands and non-wetland
Waters of the U.S.
Any impacts to CDFG jurisdictional areas are regulated tmder Fish and
Game Code Section 1603 and would require a Stieambed/Lake Alteration
Agreement. The proposed development of the Pacific Enterprises property,
however, would not directly impact any CDFG jurisdictional habitat and
jurisdictional stieambed areas.
Potential indirect impacts (e.g., light and noise) to jurisdictional areas would
be mitigated through incorporation of a proposed minimum 25-foot buffer
from federal jurisdictional boundaries (pursuant to federal Clean Water Act
Section 404 regulations), with this buffer extending approximately 5 to 30
feet beyond the mapped CFDG jurisdictional habitat (see "Jurisdictional
Buffer" on Figure 3). The City of Carlsbad LCP, however, requires a 50-foot
wide buffer area extending "...around all identified riparian areas, unless the
Letter Report to Mr. Ali Shapouri
May 18, 2000
Page 8
applicant demonstiates that a buffer of lesser width will protect identified
resources, based on site-specific information." The boimdaries of a buffer
extending 50 feet beyond "identified riparian areas" are shown as the "LCP
Buffer" on Figure 3. Based on field investigation and analysis of onsite
resources, the "Jurisdictional Buffer" shown on Figure 3 is considered
adequate to protect the ftmctions and values of identified biological
resources within and downstieam of the Pacific Enterprises site for the
following reasons: 1) all additional areas contained within the "LCP buffer"
(i.e., beyond the "Jurisdictional Buffer") contain disturbed habitat supporting
exotic, primarily weedy, species. One of the principal objectives of
establishing buffers around riparian zones is to increase the diversity of
contiguous habitat types and attendant species. Because the site does not
contain native habitat within the additional buffer area identified under the
Carlsbad LCP, this objective would not be served by increasing the buffer
width. 2) A second major objective for establishing buffer zones is to protect
water quality and associated biological resources by providing a filtering
mechanism for runoff before it enters the riparian zone. Because of the
disturbed nature of the area in question, the value in terms of mnoff and
water quality benefits to the adjacent riparian zone is questionable. The
applicant has proposed to implement a number of measures to reduce
impacts to riparian areas from onsite runoff, including locating parking areas
away from riparian/buffer zones to the maximum extent feasible, and
grading the project site such that all associated drainage is subjected to onsite
Best Management Practices (BMPs) prior to discharge. Specific BMPs to be
employed onsite would include the use of grease and oil tiaps, fossil filters
and sediment basins in applicable locations, as well as the placement of
landscaping between development and riparian areas (i.e., within the buffer
zone). Such landscaping would incorporate native species and would
provide an additional filtering mechanism for onsite runoff. The
implementation of such measures would substantially reduce potential water
quality impacts to onsite riparian areas, and, considering the disturbed
nature of the site, would afford better protection to regional and local
biological resources than the establishment of larger buffers without such
measures. 3) An additional objective of establishing protective buffers is to
reduce indirect impacts associated with onsite light and noise generation.
The project applicant has proposed a number of design measures to reduce
potential impacts from light and noise, including (as noted above) locating
parking areas away from riparian/buffer zones wherever feasible,
minimizing lighting in areas adjacent to riparian/buffer zones, and use of
low sodium light fixtures and shielding to reduce/direct illumination.
Based on the above discussions, implementation of the proposed project
design would effectively mitigate potential indirect impacts to identified
biological resources, and the implementation of additional buffer zones (as
noted in the Carlsbad LCP) is considered unnecessary. The decision
Letter Report to Mr. Ali Shapouri
May 18, 2000
Page 9
regarding the need for additional buffers will be made by the City as part of
the project approval process.
Although the project lies outside any of the City's proposed HMP open space
areas, any impacts to upland habitats would likely require mitigation.
Impacts to southem mixed chaparral habitat would likely require a fee of
3,000-10,000 dollars per acre. Impacts to disturbed habitat may also require
the payment of a fee, although it would be much smaller than that required
for chaparral habitat. The proposed development of the Pacific Enterprises
property would not impact southem mixed chaparral, but would impact the
majority of the disturbed habitat on site. Actual payment requirements for
this impact will need to be worked out in consultation with the City of
Carlsbad.
To date, no rare plant or animal species have been observed during field or
focused surveys. Although sensitive plant species are not anticipated to
occur on site, if a highly sensitive species (i.e. any of the three federal- and
state-listed threatened or endangered species with potential to occur) is
located on site during the rare plant survey, it may pose a constiaint to
project development. In addition, if the least Bell's vireo is located on site
during the focused surveys for this species, it may pose additional
constiaints to project development. The southem willow flycatcher has not
been observed during any of the field visits to date, and is not anticipated to
occur on site due to the low quality of the riparian habitat. If located, none of
the other sensitive plant or animal species with potential to occur on site (see
Attachments 1 and 2) would pose a significant constiaint to project
development because of their lower sensitivity or more widespread
distiibution.
SUMMARY AND RECOMMENDATIONS
The Pacific Enterprises Property supports 0.2 acre of freshwater marsh, 2.3
acres of southem willow scmb (including disturbed), 2.0 acres of southem
mixed chaparral, 12.2 acres of disturbed habitat, and 0.3 acre of ephemeral
drainage. Of these habitats, 0.2 acre is ACOE jurisdictional wetlands, and 0.3
acre is ACOE jurisdictional non-wetland Waters of the U.S. In addition,
CDFG jurisdictional areas include all ACOE jurisdictional areas as well as an
additional 2.3 acres of riparian habitat (southem willow scmb).
Proposed development of the Pacific Enterprises project site would only
impact disturbed habitat. Mitigation in the form of a fee payment for each
acre of disturbed habitat impacted would need to be worked out in
consultation with the City of Carlsbad.
Letter Report to Mr. Ali Shapouri Page 10
May 18, 2000
The current project proposes to avoid direct impacts to all ACOE and CDFG
jurisdictional areas during constmction. In addition, the proposed project
design would minimize indirect impacts to ACOE and CDFG jurisdictional
areas with the incorporation of the proposed "Jurisdictional Buffer" where
grading would not occur. This buffer, along with proposed design measures
to reduce indirect effects to water quality, light and noise, is considered
adequate to effectively protect identified riparian resources vvithin and
downstieam of the project site. Given these avoidance -and protection
measures, no permits for wetland impacts would be required from the ACOE
or CDFG for the proposed project. While additional buffer areas identified in
the Carlsbad LCP are not considered necessary to protect biological resources
(as described above), the final determination of onsite buffer requirements
will be made by the City as part of the project approval process.
A rare plant survey will be conducted in May 2000 to search the project site
for potentially occurring sensitive species. Additional mitigation may be
required if sensitive plant species are located within proposed impact
boundaries during this survey.
A focused survey for the least Bell's vireo is in progress, pursuant to U.S.
Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) requirements. Additional mitigation for
indirect impacts during constmction may be required if this species is
located on site. A focused survey for the southem willow flycatcher is not
recommended at this time, due to the poor quality of onsite habitat and the
low probability for the occurrence of this species.
Please let me know if you have any questions or need any additional
information.
Sincerely,
Dennis Marcin
Envirorunental Specialist
Attachments: Figure 1 Regional Location Map
Figure 2 Project Vicinity Map
Figure 3 Existing Conditions
Attachment 1 Listed or Sensitive Plant Species with Potential
to Occur on Site
Attachment 2 Listed or Sensitive Animal Species with
Potential to Occur on Site
Attachment 3 Explanation of Status Codes for Plants and
Animals
Letter Report to Mr. Ali Shapouri
May 18, 2000
LITERATURE CITED
Page 11
American Ornithologists' Union. 1983. Checklist of North American Birds
(6th Edition). American Ornithologists' Union, 877 pp. Updated
every two years.
Beauchamp, R.M. 1986. A Flora of San Diego County, Califomia.
Sweetwater Press, National City, Califomia, 241 pp.
Bond, S. 1977. An annotated list of the mammals of San Diego County,
Califomia. San Diego Society of Natural History, Trans. 18(14):229-
248, 29 April 1977.
Califomia Department of Fish and Game (CDFG). 1993. Natural
Community Conservation Planning Process Guidelines.
Unpublished.
1999. Special Status Plants, Animals and Natural Communities of San
Diego County. Califomia Department of Fish and Game Natural
Diversity Database. April.
2000a. Designated Endangered, Threatened, or Rare Plants and Candidates
with Official Listing Dates. Califomia Department of Fish and Game,
Natural Diversity Data Base. January.
2000b. Special Animals. California Department of Fish and Game,
Natural Diversity Data Base. January.
City of Carlsbad. 1999. Habitat Management Plan for Natural Communities
in the City of Carlsbad. April.
Collins, J. T. 1990. Standard common and current scientific names for North
American amphibians and reptiles (3rd Edition). Society for the Study
of Amphibians and Reptiles, Herpetological Circular No. 19,44 pp.
Environmental Laboratory. 1987. "Corps of Engineers Wetiands Delineation
Manual," Technical Report Y-87-1, U.S. Army Engineer Waterways
Experiment Station, Vicksburg, Mississippi. 100 pp. plus Appendices
A through D.
Hickman, J. C. (Ed.). 1993. The Jepson Manual, Higher Plants of Califomia.
University of Califomia Press, Berkeley, 1400 pp.
il Letter Report to Mr. Ali Shapouri Page 12
May 18, 2000
finvifoiinieiital plsniilpg, inc.
Holland, R. F. 1986. Preliminary descriptions of the terrestiial natural
communities of Califomia. Nongame-Heritage Program, Califomia
Department of Fish & Geime.
HELIX Environmental Planning. 2000. Pacific Enterprises. Draft
Jurisdictional Delineation. 6 pp.
Jones, J. K., R. S. Hoffman, D. W. Rice, C. Jones, R. J. Baker, and M. D.
Engstiom. 1992. Revised checklist of North American mammals
north of Mexico. Occasional Papers of the Museum, Texas Tech
University, 146:1-23.
Opler, P. A. 1999. A Field Guide to Westem Butterflies. Second Edition.
The Peterson Field Guide Series. Houghton Mifflin Company, Boston /
New York. pp. 540.
SANDAG. 1997. Preliminary Biological Analysis for MHCP Priority Species.
Unpublished draft SANDAG Board Report.
USFWS. 1997. Coastal Califomia gnatcatcher {Polioptila californica californica)
Presence/ Absence Survey Guidelines. Unpublished.
Attachment 1
LISTED OR SENSITIVE PLANT SPECIES WITH POTENTIAL TO OCCUR ON SITE
SPECIES STATUS* HABITAT BLOOMING
PERIOD
POTENTIAL
TO OCCUR
San Diego thommint
{Acanthom-intha ilicifolia)
FT/SE
CNPS List IB
R-E-D 2-3-2
NCCP TS^
HMP CS2
Annual herb associated with
gabbro or clay soils in
chaparral, coastal sage scrub,
grasslands, and vernal pools.
April-June Moderate. Has
been observed
in the local area.
Calif ornia spinebush
{Adolphia californica)
-V-
CNPS List 2
R-E-D 1-2-1
Deciduous shrub typically
found on clay soils in dry
canyons and washes in coastal
sage scrub, chaparral, and
grasslands. Occurs below
1,000 ft. in elevation in westem
San Diego County and
northwestem Baja Califomia,
Mexico.
December-
April
Moderate. Has
been observed
in the local area.
Thread-leaved brodiaea
{Brodiaea filifolia)
FT/SE
CNPS List IB
R-E-D 3-3-3
HMPCS
Perennial herb (bulbiferous)
occurring in coastal sage scmb,
cismontane woodlands,
grasslands, and vernal pools
with clay soils. Range includes
coastal San Diego County to
central Baja Califomia.
March-June Low. Would
have been
observed if
present. Has
been observed
in the local area.
Orcutt's brodiaea
{Brodiaea orcuttii)
FSC/~
CNPSListlB
R-E-D 1-3-2
NCCPTS
HMPCS
Perennial herb (bulbif erous)
occurring in closed-cone
coniferous forests, chaparral,
cismontane woodlands,
grasslands, and vernal pools
on clay soils. Range extends
from Riverside and San
Bernardino Counties through
San Diego County into Baja
California.
May-July Low. Due to the
small size of
potential habitat
on site.
Wart-stemmed
ceanothus
(Ceanothus verrucosus)
FSC/-
CNFSList2
R-E-D 1-2-1
HMPCS
Evergreen shmb occurring in
chaparral. Range includes
coastal San Diego Coimty to
central Baja Califomia.
January-
April
Low. Would
have been
observed if
present.
Orcutt's spineflower
{Chorizanthe orcuttiana)
FE/SE
CNPS List IB
R-E-D 3-3-3
HMPCS
Annual herb occurring in
closed-cone coniferous forests,
chaparral, and coastal sage
scrub near the coast. Range is
limited to San Diego County.
March-April Low. Due to the
small size of
potential habitat
on site.
Attachment 1 (cont.)
SPECIES STATUS* HABITAT BLOOMING
PERIOD
POTENTIAL
TO OCCUR
Summer holly
{Comarostaphylis
diversifolia ssp. diversifolia)
FSC/~
CNPS List IB
R-E-D 2-2-2
HMPCS
Evergreen shmb occurring on
north-facing slopes and
drainages in chaparral.
Scattered locations below
approximately 2,300 feet in
elevation from the foothills to
the coast in Orange and San
Diego counties and south into
Baja Califomia, Mexico.
April-June Moderate. Has
been observed
locally in
southem mixed
chaparral.
Westem dichondra
{Dichondra occidentalis)
--/-
CNPS List 4
R-E-D 1-2-1
NCCP TS
Perennial herb occurring in the
understory of chaparral, coastal
sage scmb, valley and foothill
grasslands, and cismontane
woodlands. Range extends
from Marin and Sonoma
Counties to San Miguel Island
and Baja California.
March-May Moderate.
Sticky-leaved liveforever
{Dudleya viscida)
FSC/~
CNPS List IB
R-E-D 3-2-3
NCCPTS
HMPCS
Perennial herb occurring in
coastal sage scmb and
chaparral of bluffs and rocky
cliffs. Range includes southem
Orange Coimty to central San
Diego County.
May-June Low. Due to the
small size of
potential habitat
on site.
San Diego barrel cactus
{Ferocactus viridescens)
FSC/~
CNPS List 2
R-E-D 1-3-1
HMPCS
Succulent occurring in coastal
sage scmb, chaparral, and
grass-lands within coastal San
Diego County.
May-June Low. Due to the
small size of
potential habitat
on site.
Palmer's grapplinghook
{Harpagonella palmeri)
FSC/~
CNPS List 2
R-E-D 1-2-1
NCCP TS
Aimual herb occurring on clay
soils in chaparral, coastal sage
scmb, and grasslands. Range
includes southem California
from Los Angeles County
southward, Arizona, and
northem Baja Califomia.
March-April Low. Clay
inclusions are
not expected on
the steep slopes
containing
chaparral.
San Diego marsh elder
{Iva hayesiana)
Fse/~
CNPS List 2
R-E-D 2-2-1
HMPCS
Perennial herb occurring in
playas, riparian areas, and
along ephemeral streams.
Range includes coastal San
Diego County to central Baja
Califomia.
April-
September
Low.
Southwestern spiny msh
(Juncus acutus var.
leopoldii)
-/-
CNPS List 4
R-E-D 1-2-1
Perennial herb occurring in
coastal dunes, meadows,
alkaline seeps, and freshwater
and saltwater marshes. Range
extends from San Luis Obispo
and San Bemardino Counties
to central Baja Califomia.
May-June Low.
Attachment 1 (cont.)
SPECIES STATUS* HABITAT BLOOMING
PERIOD
POTENTIAL
TO OCCUR
Cleveland's goldenstar
{Muilla clevelandii)
FSC/~
CNPSListlB
R-E-D 2-2-2
HMPCS
Perennial herb occurring on
clay soils on dry mesas and
hillsides in coastal sage scrab,
chaparral, grasslands, and
vemal pools. Range includes
Orange and San Diego
Counties and Baja California.
May Low. Most
potential habitat
on site is too
dense for this
species.
NuttaU's scrab oak
{Quercus dumosa)
FSC/~
CNPS List IB
R-E-D 2-3-2
HMPCS
Evergreen shmb occurring in
chaparral and coastal scmb
with sandy or clay loam soils.
Range includes Baja Califomia,
Mexico; and San Diego,
Orange, and Santa Barbara
counties in Califomia.
Febmary-
March.
Moderate. Has
been observed
locally in
southem mixed
chaparral.
Ashy spike-moss
(Selaginella dnerascens)
-/-
CNPS List 4
R-E-D 1-2-1
Perennial herb (rhizomatous)
occuning in open coastal sage
scmb and chaparral. Range
includes Orange County to
northern Baja Califomia.
Fertile in
March
Moderate.
Common in the
surrounding
area.
San Diego County
viguiera
{Viguiera laciniata)
~/~
CNPSList4
R-E-D 1-2-1
NCCP
Perennial shmb occurring in
coastal sage scmb and
chaparral. Range includes
coastal San Diego County to
central Baja Califomia.
Febmary-June Low. Typically
occurs further
south.
*See Explanation of Status Codes for Plants and Animals (Attachment 3)
^Natural Community Conservation Program target species.
•^Covered Species of the Carlsbad HMP.
Attachment 2
POTENTIALLY OCCURRING SENSITIVE ANIMAL SPECIES
SPECIES STATUS* POTENTIAL TO OCCUR
INVERTEBRATES
Quino checkerspot
{Euphydryas editha quino)
FE; MHCP
priority
species
Low; larval host plant {Plantago erecta) not observed on
site. Not expected to occur on site and outside of
USFWS required survey area.
Harbison's dun skipper
{Euphyes vestris harbisoni)
HMPCS Low; inhabits riparian habitats and chaparral; host plant
San Diego sedge {Carex spissa) not observed on site.
Hermes copper
{Lycaena hermes)
HMPCS Low; inhabits southem mixed chaparral and coastal
sage scrub in more inland areas. Host plant {Rhamnus
crocea) may occur on site.
VERTEBRATES
Reptiles
Orange-throated whiptail
{Cnemidophorus hyperythrus
beldingi)
FSC/CSC
MHCP priority
species
HMPCS
Moderate; favored food (termites [Hesperis sp.]) not
observed but likely present.
Coronado Island skink
{Eumeces skiltonianus
interparietalis)
FSC CSC Moderate; prefers coastal sage scmb, grassland, and
mderal habitats.
San Diego homed lizard
{Phrynosoma coronatum
hlainvillei)
FSC/CSC
HMPCS
Moderate; favored food source (harvester ants
[Pogonomyrmex sp.]) not observed but may be present
nearby.
Western patch-nosed snake
{Salvadora hexalepis virgultea)
FSC/CSC Moderate; preferred food source (whiptails) most likely
occur on site.
Birds
Cooper's hawk
{Accipiter cooperii)
-/CSC
HMPCS
Moderate; In San Diego County tends to inhabit
lowland riparian areas and oak woodlands in
proximity to suitable foraging areas such as scmblands
or fields. Occurs throughout the continental U.S.
excluding Alaska, parts of Montana, and parts of the
Dakotas. Winters south to Mexico and Honduras.
Observed in the locail area.
Sharp-shinned hawk
{Accipiter striatus)
-/CSC Low; would only occur during winter as a visitor.
Tricolored blackbird
{Agelaius tricolor)
FSC/ CSC Low; foraging habitat (marsh) is found on site, but the
species would likely only occur as a winter visitor.
Southem Califomia
rufous-crowned sparrow
{Aimophila ruficeps canescens)
-/CSC
HMPCS
Low; due to the small amount of potential habitat
(southem mixed chaparral) on site. Observed in the
local area.
Bell's sage sparrow
{Amphispiza belli belli)
-/CSC Low; would have been observed if present.
Burrowing owl
{Athene cunicularia)
FSC/CSC
HMPCS
Low; would have been observed if present.
Attachment 2 (cont.)
SPECIES STATUS* POTENTIAL TO OCCUR
VERTEBRATES (cont.)
Birds (cont.)
Northem harrier
{Circus cyaneus)
-/CSC Moderate; would have been observed if present.
Prefers coastal, salt, and freshwater marsfilands,
grasslands and prairies. Widespread throughout the
temperate regions of North America and Eurasia.
Winters and migrates throughout Califomia from
below sea level in Death Valley to an elevation of 9,800
feet. Known breeding areas in San Diego County
include Torrey Pines, the Tijuana River VaUey, and
Camp Pendleton. Observed in the local area.
Yellow warbler
{Dendroica petechia brewsteri)
-/CSC Moderate; prefers riparian habitats. On-site riparian
habitat has potential to support, especially considering
adjacent riparian areas.
White-tailed kite
{Elanus leucurus)
-/CSC Low; Nesting tj^ically occurs in riparian or oak
woodlands adjacent to grasslands where small
mammals are hunted. Breeds in the Pacific U.S.
Winters to South America as far south as Chile.
Observed in the local area.
Southwestern willow
flycatcher
(Empidonax traillii extimus)
FE/~
MHCP priority
species
HMPCS
Low; prefers riparian habitats. Surveys are not
recommended as habitat is not appropriate.
C£difomia homed lark
{Eremophila alpestris actio)
~/CSC Moderate; Prefers sandy beaches, agricultural fields,
grasslands, and open areas. Occurs on coastal slopes
and lowlands from Sonoma County to northem Baja
Califomia, Mexico. Flocks observed in the local area in
disturbed/agricultural areas.
Yellow-breasted chat
{Icteria virens)
-/CSC
HMPCS
Moderate; prefers riparian habitats. On-site habitat has
potential to support, especially considering adjacent
riparian areas in the southeast comer.
Loggerhead shrike
{Lanius ludovicianus)
~/CSC Moderate; Prefers open habitats including grasslands,
scmblands, and mderal areas with adequate perching
locations. Widespread, but declining, throughout
North America. Winters south to Central America.
Observed in the local area.
Least Bell's vireo
{Vireo bellii pusillus)
FE /SE
MHCP priority
species
HMPCS
Low; prefers riparian habitats. Although this species
has very high sensitivity, surveys are not -
recommended as habitat is not appropriate.
Attachment 2 (cont.)
SPECIES STATUS* POTENTIAL TO OCCUR
VERTEBRATES (cont.)
Mammals
San Diego
black-tailed jackrabbit
{Lepus californicus)
FSC/CSC Moderate; occurs primarily in open habitats including
coastal sage scmb, chaparral, grasslands, croplands,
and open, disturbed areas if there is at least some scmb
cover present. Observed in the local area.
Dulzura Califomia
pocket mouse
{Chaetodipus californicus
femoralis)
-/CSC Moderate; found in chaparral and mule fat. Such
habitat occurs on site.
San Diego pocket mouse
{Chaetodipus fallax fallax)
FSC/CSC Moderate; prefers open, sandy land with weeds. Such
habitat occurs on site.
Calif ornia mastiff bat
{Eumops perotis californicus)
-/CSC Moderate; may use site for foraging, but roosting sites
likely elsewhere.
Desert woodrat
{Neotoma lepida intermedia)
FSC/CSC Moderate; nests are usually observed if present, but
may have escaped view in thicker vegetated areas.
Southem grasshopper mouse
{Onychomys torridus ramona)
-/CSC Moderate; this species is not restrictive in its habitat
requirements (Bond 1977).
Townsend's westem
big-eared bat
{Plecotus townsendii
townsendii)
-/CSC Moderate; may use site for foraging, but roosting sites
likely elsewhere.
*See Explanation of Status Codes for Plants and Animals (Attachment 3).
Attachment 3
EXPLANATION OF STATUS CODES FOR PLANTS AND ANIMALS -
U.S. nSH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE (USFWS)
FE Federally-listed endangered
FT FederaUy-Iisted threatened
FPE Federally-proposed endangered
FPT Federally-proposed threatened
FPD Federally-proposed for delisting
FC Federal candidate species (former Category 1 candidates)
FSC Federal special concem species (a "term of art" for former Category 2 candidates)
MBTA Migratory Bird Treaty Act
CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF nSH AND GAME (CDFG)
SE State-listed endsmgered
SR State-listed rare
ST State-listed threatened
SCE State candidate for listing as endangered
SCT State candidate for listing as threatened
CSC Califomia special concem species
Fully Protected Fully protected and Protected species may not be taken or possessed without a permit
and Protected from the Fish and Game Commission and/or the Department of Fish and Game
WATCH LIST
The Watch List (compiled by the Audubon Society and Partners in Flight) identifies species aie those faced with population decline,
limited geographic range, and/or threats such as habitat loss on their breeding and wintering grounds serving as an early warning
system that focuses attention on at-risk bird species before they become endangered.
CALIFOiyvIIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT
For plants with no current state or federal legal standing, "CEQA" refers to the fact that under the Act, impacts to species may be
found significant under certain circumstances (e.g., uniqueness due to size, age, or regional sensitivity).
CALIFORNIA NATIVE PLANT SOCIETY (CNPS)
LISTS
lA = Presumed extinct.
IB = Rare, threatened, or endangered in
CaUfomia and elsewhere. Eligible
for state Usting.
2 = Rare, threatened, or endangered in
Califomia but more common
elsewhere. Eligible for state listing.
3 = Distribution, endangerment,
and/or taxonomic information
needed.
4 = A watch list for species of limited
distribution. Needs monitoring for
chimges in population status.
R-E-D CODE
R (Rarity)
1 = Rare but found in sufficient numbers and distributed widely enough that
potential for extinction is low at ttiis time.
2 = Occurrence confined to several populations or to one extended
population.
3 = Occurrence limited to one or a few highly restricted populations, or
present in such small numbers that it is seldom reported.
E (Endangerment)
1 = Not endangered
2 = Endangered in a portion of its range
3 = Endangered tttfoughout its range
D (Distribution)
1 = More or less widespread outside Califomia
2 = Rare outside Califomia
3 = Endemic to Califomia