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HomeMy WebLinkAbout3184; CANNON ROAD WEST; ENVIRONMENTAL REPORTS; 1997-08-18'ml TETRA TECH, INC.. 691 Camino do la Rein. Suits 640 San Diego, California 92108 Telephone (619) 718-9676 FAX (619) 718-9698 August 18, 1997 Ms. Sherri Howard Engineering Department City of Carlsbad 2075 Las Palmas Dr. Carlsbad, California 92009-1576 Dear Ms Howard: During a survey conducted on August 15, 1997, two individual Del Mar nianzanita shrubs were. located (Map 1). These individuals are growing in a small drainage approximately 60 feet east of the SDG&E access road which crosses the canyon and approximately 340 feet southeast of the Cannon Road Reach 1 limits of disturbance as mapped by O'Day Consultants (June 1997). The distance between planned project activities suggests that the two Del Mar manzanita shrubs Would not be removed by the construction of the project. Two Del Mar manzanita plants occurring near the Cannon Road Reach 1 alignment would not be removed by project implementation. Thank you for the opportunity to provide the City with the services reported in this letter. If you have questions regarding.this matter please contact meor Ms Betty Dehoney at (619) 718-9676. I Sincerely, Tetra Tech,* I Philip M. Bunch Principal Biologist REVISION rir Alibillm 4Jac Vi. - Cp \1/ jJ4':' I'J) '.:-& . Z .WJ I J - 1/ •t i - •i&bi i to ___ • • . • low ____ -- . , .• .-' ____ 'I (.. 10 b I ILL : : '' -to r -4 -'' • -- ____ low. 64 CL - ______ • 4' _____ 2 - - .. . •. fic ___ p,4 . -' . , / - --.-.•I •;- •... ••- / CD An 4 .. -. •• \ -)( p.- V. .c K - . ( •.r7'•iTi .i \ \/ \ I "• 1".• G. / .•j c-- /___ / -. \ . X _4_ : •jj;•1 •--: ( 7 .. A \ "i.4e -•- ' ) 0 • - 'i -'.•,,•••, - -. . . .-. - • -- ...- - • :-. - - • Go Co .1 V '.,_ . ,.,'c...•_pj _-- - C\J CQ : CID TETRA TECH, INC. 591 Camino d. I. Relna SuIte 640 San Diego, California 92108 Telephone (619) 718-9676 FAX (619) 718-9698 August 18, 1997 Ms. Sherri Howard Engineering Department City of Carlsbad 2075 Las Palmas Dr. Carlsbad, California 92009-1576 Dear Ms Howard: On August 15, 1997 Tetra Tech, Inc biologist, Phil Bunch, conducted a survey to delineate wetland and riparian areas that may be affected by the construction of Cannon Road Reach 1 project. The survey area included areas within and adjacent to the footprint of Cannon Road between Stations 49+00 and approximately Station 60+00. This portion of Cannon Road Reach 1 will bridge the upper reach of a small unnamed Canyon (Map 1). The survey was conducted at the request' of the City to answer questions raised by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service(USFWS) in regard to possible impacts from the construction of Cannon Road Reach 1 on Del Mar manzanita and riparian woodland vegetation mapped as occurring in the canyon on San Diego Gas and Electric Company (SDG&E) property. Riparian and Wetland Delineation The affected area was carefully surveyed for evidence of riparian habitat and waters and wetlands that may be under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) or California Department and Fish and Game (CDFG). Each area potentially representing riparian or wetland habitat was mapped (Map 1) and a wetland delineation using the methods specified in the Corps 1978 Wetland Delineation Manual (1987) was conducted on an area with potential to represent a jurisdictional wetland. The upper portion of the survey area is a residential area characterized by small shelters built of scrap materials and probably occupied by local agricultural workers. Ms. Sherri Howard August 18, 1997 Page 2 The habitat of primary concern to the USFWS in the survey area is a 0.24 acre woodland with a tree story dominated by arroyo willow (Salix lasiolepis) that extends for approximately 260 feet along the drainage. Much of this habitat is located above and along the south edge of the main axis of the canyon. Its elevation above the bottom of the canyon is estimated to greater than 6 feet over most of its extent. Only the upper most trees are located directly on the lowest portion of canyon floor. The canyon bottom adjacent to this willow woodland and north to the SDG&E access road is not characterized by the presence of bed and bank associated with jurisdictional waters. The water shed of this drainage is small (Map 1) and it appears that when surface flows occur in this portion of the canyon they are not confined to a distinct channel. Willow woodland typically occurs along stream channels but arroyo willow may also occur where ground water reaches the surface as seeps or springs. The shrub layer and understory of this habitat was characterized to determine if seeps or springs are providing water for the willows. The most abundant shrubs associated with the willows in the upper portion of the habitat include Mexican elderberry (Santhucus mexicanus) and lemonade berry (Rhus integrifolia). This elderberry is a facultative (FAC) species (Reed 1988) and its presence suggests that portions of this habitat may represent wetlands. Lemonade berry is not a wetland indicator species. A small patch of the facultative wetland (FACW-) mule fat (Baccharis salicifolia) occurs near the upper limit of this habitat. This small area is characterized by arroyo willow, elderberry and mule fat and may represent a jurisdictional wetland supported by surfacing groundwater. It is located approximately 200 feet above the Cannon Road Reach 1 limits of disturbance and would not be adversely 'affected by the project. Closer to the affected area the' shrub story of the willow woodland is characterized by a predominance of upland shrubs including California sage bush (Artemisia ca1fomica), laurel leaf sumac (Malosma laurina), black sage (Salvia mellifera) and coyote bush (Baccharis pilularis). These species are associated with coastal sage scrub vegetation and generally do not occur in wetlands. Mexican elderberry also occurs in this area but it is not as abundant as the upland species. The herbaceous understory in this area is disturbed by human activity and the majority of the understory herbs are upland species. The shrub and understory of this woodland is composed of predominantly upland species several of which are intolerant of saturated soils. Therefore it is unlikely that groundwater currently reaches the upper layers of the soil in these areas. No portions of the lower portion of this habitat appear to have either the hydrological or vegetative characteristics associated with wetlands and are unlikely to represent jurisdictional wetland habitat. Ms. Sherri Howard August 18, 1997 Page 3 Map 1 shows the location of the disturbance footprint of Cannon Road Reach 1 in the study area. This disturbance footprint is adjacent to the willow woodland but does not indicate that willows would be removed by project activities. Adjacent to the SDG&E access road a 0.03 acre patch of grassland vegetation dominated by giant wildrye (Leynus condensatus) occurs in the canyon bottom behind a small (approximately 8 inch) berm. A wetland delineation was conducted within this grassland habitat. In order to be classified as a wetland under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers a habitat must have a predominance of wetland vegetation, hydric soils and wetland hydrology. Under normal circumstances all three criteria must be met. The field data form for wetland determinations is attached. The vegetation characterizing this grassland habitat does not meet the criteria for a jurisdictional wetland. Giant wildrye, a facultative upland (FACU) species, dominates this habitat and has greater than 100% cover over much of its areal extent. Scarlet pimpernel (Anagallis arvensis), a facultative (FAC) indicator species has a dominance estimated to be less than 5%. The remaining species which have cover values estimated to be greater than 1 % are black mustard (Brassica nigra), white-stem filaree (Erodiurn moschatum), and mesa bush mallow (Malacotlzamnusfasciculatus) seedlings. None of these are wetland indicator species. In order to be considered a wetland a least 50% of the dominant species must be obligate (OBL), facultative wetland (FACW) or FAC indicator species. The only truly dominate species in this habitat is wildrye (FACU). Even if the non-dominate species are considered only scarlet pimpernel is a FAC species and only 20%. of the top five species are FAC or better. Therefore this habitat does not meet the vegetation criteria-for Corps jurisdictional wetland. It should be noted that a fire occurred adjacent to and within this area within the last few years. The slopes on the south side of the canyon burned and crown sprouting chamise is present. The stem of a burned shrub occurs within the upper end of the wildrye dominated area. It is likely that the delineated area was also affected by the fire. The U.S. Soil Conservation Service (Bowman 1979) mapped soils on the area as Las Flores loamy fine sand. While this soil type is not listed as a hydric soil, the soils of the wildrye dominated habitat have characteristics of a hydric soil. All soil colors were determined after moistening the sample and waiting for the surface sheen to dissipate. Soil colors were determined using the Munsell Soil Color Chart at approximately 1330 under cloudy conditions. The upper ½ inch of the soil is characterized as recently deposited sediments including approximately 1/4 inch of light brownish gray sand (10YR 7/2) and approximately 1/4 inch of charcoal and carbonized plant Ms. Sherri Howard August 18, 1997 Page 4 remains (10YR 2/1). The surrounding habitat burned within the last few years and these upper layers are probably derived from sediments carried by runoff from the nearby slopes. The A horizon is approximately 3 inches deep and is a coarse sand with some clay. Its matrix color is 7.5 YR 3/3 with approximately 40% mottles of varying color as light as 10 YR 6/4. At approximately 8 inches the B horizon is a black (7.5 YR 2.5/1), clayey sand with no mottles and is slightly moist. Between 3 inches and 8 inches the soil is black (7.5 YR 2.5/1) clayey sand and dry. The low chroma characterizing the B horizon indicates that this is a hydric soil. While mottles in the A horizon are not necessarily a hydric soil indicator they suggest the presence of saturated conditions associated with a fluctuating water table during some portion of the year. The low chroma of the B horizon suggests that this soil has been constantly saturated for long periods at some point in its history. Several indicators of wetland hydrology are present at the sample location. The low berm along the SDG&E access road appears to be high enough to create a basin topography. While it is not known how long this berm has been present the City of Carlsbad Orthophoto topographic map of the area (Map 1) indicates that this road has been there since at least 1988 and probably was constructed many years before that. This habitat is also located in the bottom of a relatively flat portion of the drainage and any surface flow reaching this point would be likely to remain ponded behind the berm. This location may also represent an area where groundwater surfaces. At lower elevations in the canyon three areas with nearly 100 % cover of mariposa rush (Juncus dubius) (FACW) and deer grass (Muhienbergia rigens) (FACW) occur on gently sloping to relatively flat terrain on the canyon floor. Areas dominated by mariposa rush extend to elevations as much as 10 feet above the lowest adjacent portion of the canyon. The soils on these areas vary from sandy to clayey and water must be present near the surface for extended periods to allow FACW species to dominate the habitat. These areas probably represent vernal seeps where surfacing groundwater and/or surface flows create wetland conditions. A small excavation (6-8 inches deep) has been dug along a portion of the south edge of the delineated area. It appears to have been dug this year since little or no vegetation was rooted in it. The excavation does not appear to be extensive enough to effectively drain this area and is located at an elevation at least 6 inches above the lowest portion of the area and the berm does not appear to have been breached. Ms. Sherri Howard August 18, 1997 Page Normal Conditions Several potential indicators of atypical conditions are present. These include: the berm along the road, the excavation along the south edge of the delineated area, and evidence of tire adjacent to and within the wildrye dominated area. The shallow berm along the SDG&E access road is the result of human activity and probably increases the period of inundation within the wildrye dominated area. This feature increases the water available to the area but it is not known how long the berm has been in place. The very low cbroma of the area's soil and its location on a relatively flat portion of the canyon floor suggest that this area may have had a wetland hydrology prior to the placement of the berm. The presence of the excavation along the south edge of the delineated area may have the potential to increase the depth at which extended soil saturation occurs. However, it is apparently of recent origin and shallow depth that would not be expected to have created conditions sufficient for wildrye to completely replace species dependent on wetland conditions. The occurrence of a fire on the delineated area in the recent past may have had the potential to alter the vegetation by removing wetland dependent species. However the absence of any water dependent species and only one facultative species combined with the very high cover and density of wildrye suggests that wildrye has probably dominated this area for an extended period of time. The presence of low chroma soils suggest that this area has functioned as a wetland in the past. The source of sufficient water to create hydric soils is not however obvious. The presence of a nearby willow dominated woodland with a well developed upland shrub story and upland understory suggests that more water at or near the surface may have been present in the canyon in the past. Whether this was naturally occurring groundwater or resulted from the agricultural operations on the relatively flat terrain above the canyon is unknown. In any case, the strong upland component of the willow woodlands understory suggests that changes in the total amount of available water probably occurred many years ago. It is likely that the existing vegetation and hydrology has not changed significantly in the last five years. This is interpreted to indicate that the existing conditions are normal circumstances for the delineated area. Ms. Sherri Howard August 18, 1997 Page 6 Pre-jurisdictional Wetland Determination While the hydric soil and hydrology criteria for a wetland habitat are met in the delineated area, the vegetation criteria is not met. In addition, sufficient evidence of an atypical situation is not present. Therefore, the delineated area does not appear to represent a wetland under the jurisdiction of the Corps. The presence of hydric soils and indicators of wetland hydrology do however suggest that this area represents waters of the United States. Summary A 0.24 acre willow woodland located in an unnamed canyon between Station 49+00 and Station 60 + 00 does not represent a jurisdictional wetland nor would it be adversely affected by the Cannon Road Reach 1 project. In addition a pre-jurisdictional delineation of a wildrye dominated grassland that would be removed by construction of the Cannon Road Reach 1 project indicates that this habitat does not represent a wetland under the jurisdiction of the Corps but may represent waters of the United States. Thank you for the opportunity to provide the City with the services reported in this letter. If you have questions regarding this matter please contact me or Ms Betty Dehoney at (619) 718-9676. Sincerely, Tera Te 7pM.Lnh/ Principal Biologist DATA FORM ROUTINE WETLAND DETERMINATION 0987 COE Wetlands Delineation Manual) Project/Site: C 1-rL-...]' Date: Applicant/Owner: (' 'y ( A 6,.4 r1 County: Investigator: Pk; I )t.', zc4 State: c,, I.- Do Normal Circumstances exist on the site? 6j> No Community ID: Is the site significantly disturbed (Atypical Situation)? Yes Transect ID: Is. the area a potential Problem Area? No Plot ID: (If needed, explain on reverse.) I VEGETATION Dominant Plant Species Stratum Indicator Dominant Plant Species Stratum Indicator i. e . FP-c.t 9. - 10. 3. ci'v,..-'r l'e 4.&vdi..-..--'_cL,it _t&a - 12. S. D.5(.CLI, k1 — 13. 6. 14. 7._________________________________ 8. 16. Percent of Dominant Species that are .08L. FACW or FAC (excluding FAC•). Remarks: i. 2. - c &%-(. _.....-Z. lo.zr re. ves.AL S. p - HYDROLOGY Recorded Data (Describe in Remarks): - Wetland Hydrology Indicators: -Stream, Lake, or Tide Gauge Primary Indicators: - Aerial Photographs Inundated Other . - -Saturated in Upper 12 Inches No Recorded Data Available - - Water Marks Drift Lines Sediment Deposits• Field Observations: . . j Drainage Patterns in Wetlands Secondary Indicators (2 or more required): Depth of Surface Water: (in.) - Oxidized Root Channels in Upper 12 Inches - Water-Stained Leaves Depth to Free Water in Pit: (in.) - Local Soil Survey Data - FAC-Neutral Test Depth to Saturated Soil: (in.) Other (Explain in Remarks) Remarks: S.i-,-s-LQ 7op6 y -\2L - CI } 'd 3-3 EEEEE' I — er,. t ' 1 -. I 4I p' • $ 4. ..ajp.41 " .E — • 4 1 t .. - 41 -. . V "its 4 1~4 ç - III I * cjl S lQ94g5O I IF 4 S - .L• • rn / - •. -#-: f x`1 I • 2 - t '4 45 4 J 4 t, I • • Jt Af IL .. • . 71% .. ? • -- — P- Ole As ¼ ' - . '•.' '' \ X 181. 0 " \ N 199. 0 • '. ,. . N I. 72 0 100 200 300 73 74 GRAPHIC SCALE . -- - 1 82 83 84 Aerial Photo Date Sept.- O. 1988. Aerial Photo scale - 1: 9600 ( This map was compiled by photogrammetric methods and meets nat0 map standard accuracy specifications. Horizontal Control is Based On the California coord inate DATUM hi An R Vertir.l Control ,s Based On the 1929 MEAN SEA LEVEL . . . ..'. • :s. it TETRA TECH, INC. 591 Camino do la Reina, Suite 640 San Diego, California 92108 Telephone (619) 718-9676 FAX (619) 718-9698 July 4, 1998 RECEIVED JUL - 8 199 ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT Ms. Sherri Howard Engineering Department, City of Carlsbad 2075 Las Palmas Drive Carlsbad, California 92009-1576 Re: Results of 1997 Endangered Species Field Surveys, Cannon Road, City of Carlsbad Dear Sherri, In this letter, Tetra Tech, Inc. presents the data gathered during the 1997 endangered species surveys conducted along the proposed alignment of Cannon Road and within Macario Canyon. Both areas are located within the same general area of the City of Carlsbad; northeast and east of Agua Hedionda Lagoon, south and southwest of El Camino Real, north of Palomar Airport Road, and west of College Avenue. Included in these have been focused surveys for least Bell's vireo (Vireo belliipusillus), southwestern willow flycatcher (Empidonax traiiii extimus), and arroyo toad (Bufo microscaphus calfornicus). This information was presented in a letter report to Mr. Jeff Manning of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, dated 22 July 1997. This current letter is being provided for your files, and represents fulfillment of our contractual responsibilities so that our outstanding invoice for conducting these surveys can be authorized by the City. Endangered Riparian Bird Surveys The results of intensive riparian bird surveys conducted at the proposed Cannon Road bridge crossing of Agua Hedionda Creek, as well as the entire stretch of Macario Canyon are presented herein. In addition, results of 'spot surveys' conducted along Agua Hedionda Creek in riparian habitat adjacent to the proposed Cannon Road alignment, but not subject to direct disturbance from the project are summarized. These riparian bird surveys focused on the detection of least Bell's vireo and willow flycatcher, and were conducted by Ms. Karen Miner under valid Section 10(a)(1)(A) permit number PRT-8 14222. Ms. Miner was assisted by Tetra Tech Principal Biologist Mr. Brian Arnold. Both Ms. Miner and Mr. Arnold have been trained in survey protocol and have experience surveying for endangered species including least Bell's vireo and willow flycatcher. Birds detected during Ms. Sherri Howard 4 July 1998 Page 2 these surveys are presented in Table 1. The approximate locations of least Bell's vireo and migrant willow flycatchers in the intensive survey areas were provided to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service on the attached hand marked USGS 7.5-minute topo map-based figure. Agua Hedionda Creek Area Intensively Surveyed: El Camino Real Bridge to about 600 feet down stream Survey Dates: 31 May, 6 June, 27 June, and 11 July 1997 Habitat: Willow-cottonwood riparian Endangered Species Results: Least Bell's vireo (11 July) Surveys were conducted for at least one hour between 0600 and 1030 each survey date using taped vocalizations of least Bell's vireo and willow flycatcher. No responses from either of these species were recorded within the intensive survey area during the 31 May, 6 June, and 27 June surveys. On 6 June, three territorial male least Bell's vireos and two yellow-breasted chats (Icteria virens) were detected during 'spot surveys' along Agua Hedionda Creek, between approximately 0.25 and 0.35 miles downstream of the El Camino Real Bridge. In addition, two singing male grasshopper sparrows (Ammodramus savannarum) were also observed in the non-native annual grassland just east of the dirt road at this location. These observations indicate that populations of these three species exist within the area. On 11 July, an attempt was made to find the nearest least Bell's vireo territory to the El Camino Real Bridge. At approximately 700 feet downstream of the bridge on the west side of the creek, an unbanded adult male vireo responded to solicitation and then proceeded to follow the researcher back to within 500 feet of the bridge, to a location visited on each of the three previous survey days without detection of a vireo. It is possible that territorial boundaries were more lax on this day due to the lateness of the season. It is also possible that an earlier survey may have found this male defending a territorial boundary that extended to within 500 feet of the bridge. In addition, brown-headed cowbirds (Mololhrus ater) were observed in this intensive survey area. Mouth of Macario Canyon Area Intensively Surveyed: Riparian area across mouth of Macario Canyon (underneath transmission lines), including all mulefat scrub at the west end near the concrete apron and extending up canyon approximately 300 feet (surveyed contiguous with Macario Canyon survey). Survey Dates: 31 May, 6June, and 11 July 1997 Habitat: Willow-cottonwood riparian Endangered Species Results: Least Bell's vireo Surveys were conducted for 0.5 hour to 1.5 hours between 0600 and 1030 using taped vocalizations of least Bell's vireo and willow flycatcher. No responses from willow flycatchers were observed Ms. Sherri Howard 4 July 1998 Page 3 within the survey area. The only least Bell's vireo observed was an unbanded, male young-of-the-year on the last survey date in July after about 1.5 hours of intensive survey effort. It was identified as a fledgling male based on its bright plumage and the fact that it was singing a very rudimentary song. Based on the experience of the principal surveyor with least Bell's vireos, males produced during the first breeding attempt of the season may begin ranging from their natal territory and practicing territorial song by July. This behavior has been previously observed by Ms. Miner with banded birds. On those past occasions, the locations where the juvenile males"sang"had always been unoccupied by breeding vireos that season. Other birds observed in this area include a territorial yellow-breasted chat and several brown-headed cowbirds. Macario Canyon Area Intensively Surveyed: Survey Dates: Habitat: Endangered Species Results: Riparian woodland in Macario Canyon from the mouth to upstream of the shooting range. 31 May, 6 June, 27 June, and 11 July 1997 Willow scrub Southwestern willow flycatcher (migrants, 31 May and 6 June) Surveys were conducted for one to two hours between 0600 and 1030 using taped vocalizations of least Bell's vireo and willow flycatcher. Two willow flycatchers responded on the first two survey dates, but not on the last two survey dates. They were located upstream of the existing gated creek road crossing, and approximately 300 feet apart on either side of the creek. Based on the dates they were observed and not observed, and the fact that their crown appeared to be slightly browner than their back, it is likely that they belonged to the migratory subspecies (Empidonax traillii brewsteri). Brown-headed cowbirds were also observed within this stretch of Macario Canyon. Arroyo Toad Surveys Agua Hedionda Creek and Macario Canyon Surveys to evaluate the presence of arroyo toad were conducted following the March 7, 1995 Survey Protocols for Arroyo Toads developed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The surveys were conducted by Mr. Brian Arnold, Tetra Tech Principal Biologist during the evenings of 19, 20, 21, and 23 May, and 1 June 1997. These surveys were conducted at various times between one hour after dusk and midnight. Agua Hedionda Creek was surveyed on 19 and 21 May, and 1 June, and Macario Canyon was surveyed on all survey nights. No arroyo toad calls were detected during the surveys. Calls, larva and adult Pacific tree frog (Pseudacris regilla) were recorded, as were larval western toad (Bufo boreas). Ms. Sherri Howard 4 July 1998 Page 4 It has been a pleasure providing these biological resources services in support of the Canon Road Project. Please free to call me at (619) 718-9676, extension 105 should you have any questions about these results. Sincerely, 214'/ Brian W. Arnold Principal Biologist TABLE 1: Birds Observed During Riparian Surveys Conducted in Macario Canyon May, June, and July 1997 Scientific Name Common Name Agua 1-Tedionth Macario Canyon Ardea herodias Great blue heron X Egretta thula Snowy egret X Butorkies virescens Green heron X Anas plasyrhynchos Mallard X Cathartes aura S Turkey vulture X Elanus leucurus White-tailed kite X X Buteo lineatus Red-shouldered hawk X Buteojamaicensis Red-tailed hawk X' Callipepla caljfornica California quail X X Charadrius vocferus Killdeer X X Recurvi rostra americana American avocet X Larus occidentalis Western gull X Zenaida macroura Mourning dove X X Aeronautes saxatalis White-throated swift X X Calypte anna Rufous hummingbird X X Selasphorus rufus Downey woodpecker X Picoides pubescens Downey woodpecker X Colaptes auratus Northern flicker X Empidonax traillii Willow flycatcher X Empidonax dfficilis Pacific-slope flycatcher X X Sayornis nigricans Black phoebe X X Myiarchus cinerascens Ash-thro ated flycatcher X Hirundo pyrrhonota Cljff swallow X X Canon Road Endangered Bird Surveys Hirundo rustica Barn swallow X Aphelocoma calfornica Western scrub-jay X Corvus corax Common raven X X Psaltriparus minimus Bushtit X X Thyromanes bewickii Bewick's wren X X Troglodytes aedon House wren X Cistothorus palustris Marsh wren X Polioptila calfornica calfornica Coastal California gnatcatcher X Chamaeafasciata Wrentit X Mimus polyglottos Northern mockingbird X Toxostoma redivivum California thrasher X Vireo bellii pusillus Least Bell's vireo X X Vermivora celata Orange-crowned warbler X Dendroica petechia Yellow warbler X Geothlypis trichas Common yellowthroat X X' Wilsonia pusilla Wilson's warbler 0 X X Icteria virens Yellow-breasted chat X X Pheucticus melanocephalus Black-headed grosbeak X X Gui raca caerulea Blue grosbeak X Pipilo maculatus Spotted towhee X X Pipilo crissalis California towhee X X Ammodrammus savannarum Grasshopper sparrow X Melospiza melodia Song sparrow X X Agelaius phoeniceus Red-winged blackbird X Molothrus ater Brown-headed cowbird X X Carduelis psaltria Lesser goldfinch X Carduelis tristis American goldfinch X Carpodacus mexicanus House finch X X Canon Road Endangered Bird Surveys op 0 ,? Cler N an i /O . ) \ dp)al C if 5y I 6 Gr4eI I' I Pit I yi ? / }( 7/ •1 •. - If co all IS Av os: intor Agua 30 Zo if EP mt / I 00 ua if :. \. ,aypit PU 328 (ENCINITAS) 472 17'30" 473 474 . 0 iITEIiOflG0OLOG 2550 SE SCALE 1:24000 IPte.s;vI St*Pv.4, Ax r-4 0 1 MILE ROAD oTi 00 3000 4000 5000 6000 7000 FEET I Heavy-duty 0 1 KILOMETER L13'I teL&T 3eU5 vfl,.. Medium-duty ........ )UR INTERVAL 20 FEET Stui b,,Ur..4 1te4cterstate F REPRESENT 10-FOOT CONTOURS )DETIC VERTICAL DTUM OF 1929 GS IN FEET—DATU:M IS MEAN LOWER LOW WATER CALIF ;ENTS THE APPROXIMATE LINE OF MEAN HIGH WATER NGE OF TIDE IS APP,RÔXIMATELV 4 FEET QUADRANGLE LOCATION WITH NATIONAL IiIAP ACCURACY STANDARDS Y, DENVER, COLORADO 80225, OR RESTON, VIRGINIA 22092 1PHIC MAPS AND SYMBOLS IS AVAILABLE ON REQUEST cAAJ Lu;J _14_If_ TETRA TECH, INC. 591 Camino do la Rome Suite 640 San Diego, California 92108 Telephone (619) 718-9676 FAX (619) 718-9698 August 18, 1997 Ms. Sherri Howard Engineering Department City of Carlsbad 2075 Las Palmas Dr. Carlsbad, California 92009-1576 Dear Ms Howard: On August 15, 1997 Tetra Tech, Inc biologist, Phil Bunch, conducted, a survey to delineate wetland and riparian areas that may be affected by the construction of Cannon Road Reach 1 project. The survey area included areas within and adjacent to the footprint of Cannon Road between Stations 49+00 and approximately Station 60+00. This portion of Cannon Road Reach 1 will bridge the upper reach of a small unnamed Canyon (Map 1). The survey was conducted at the request of the City to answer questions raised by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service(USFWS) in regard to possible impacts from the construction of Cannon Road Reach 1 on Del Mar manzanita and riparian woodland vegetation mapped as occurring in the canyon on San Diego Gas and Electric Company (SDG&E) property. 0 Riparian and Wetland Delineation The affected area was carefully surveyed for evidence of riparian habitat and waters and wetlands that may be under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) or California Department and Fish and Game (CDFG). Each area potentially representing riparian or wetland habitat was mapped (Map 1) and a wetland delineation using the methods specified in the Corps 1978 Wetland Delineation Manual (1987) was conducted on an area with potential to represent 0 0 a jurisdictional wetland. The upper portion of the survey area is a residential area characterized by small shelters built of scrap materials and probably occupied by local agricultural workers. Ms. Sherri Howard August 18, 1997 Page 2 The habitat of primary concern to the USFWS in the survey area is a 0.24 acre woodland with a tree story dominated by arroyo willow (Salix lasiolepis) that extends for approximately 260 feet along the drainage. Much of this habitat is located above and along the south edge of the main axis of the canyon. Its elevation above the bottom of the canyon is estimated to greater than 6 feet over most of its extent. Only the upper most trees are located directly on the lowest portion of canyon floor. The canyon bottom adjacent to this willow woodland and north to the SDG&E access road is not characterized by the presence of bed and bank associated with jurisdictional waters. The water shed of this drainage is small (Map 1) and it appears that when surface flows occur in this portion of the canyon they are not confined to a distinct channel. Willow woodland typically occurs along stream channels but arroyo willow may also occur where ground water reaches the surface as seeps or springs. The shrub layer and understory of this habitat was characterized to determine if seeps or springs are providing water for the willows. The most abundant shrubs associated with the willows in the upper portion of the habitat include Mexican elderberry (Sambucus mexicanus) and lemonade berry (Rhus integrfolia). This elderberry is a facultative (FAC) species (Reed 1988) and its presence suggests that portions of this habitat may represent wetlands. Lemonade berry is not a wetland indicator species. A small patch of the facultative wetland (FACW-) mule fat (Baccharis saliafolia) occurs near the upper limit of this habitat. This small area is characterized by arroyo willow, elderberry and mule fat and may represent a jurisdictional wetland supported by surfacing groundwater. It is located approximately 200 feet above the Cannon Road Reach 1 limits of disturbance and would not be adversely affected by the project. Closer to the affected area the shrub story of the willow woodland is characterized by a predominance of upland shrubs including California sage bush (Artemisia ca4fomica), laurel leaf sumac (Malosma laurina), black sage (Salvia me1lfera) and coyote bush (Baccharis pilularis). These species are associated with coastal sage scrub vegetation and generally do not occur in wetlands. Mexican elderberry also occurs in this area but it is not as abundant as the upland species. The herbaceous understory in this area is disturbed by human activity and the majority of the understory herbs are upland species. The shrub and understory of this woodland is composed of predominantly upland species several of which are intolerant of saturated soils. Therefore it is unlikely that groundwater currently reaches the upper layers of the soil in these areas. No portions of the lower portion of this habitat appear to have either the hydrological or vegetative characteristics associated with wetlands and are unlikely to represent jurisdictional wetland habitat. S Ms. Sherri Howard August 18, 1997 Page 3 Map 1 shows the location of the disturbance footprint of Cannon Road Reach 1 in the study area. This disturbance footprint is adjacent to the willow woodland but does not indicate that willows would be removed by project activities. Adjacent to the SDG&E access road a 0.03 acre patch of grassland vegetation dominated by giant wildrye (Leymus condensatus) occurs in the canyon bottom behind a small (approximately 8 inch) berm. A wetland delineation was conducted within this grassland habitat. In order to be classified as a wetland under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers a habitat must have a predominance of wetland vegetation, hydric soils and wetland hydrology. Under normal circumstances all three criteria must be met. The field data form for wetland determinations is attached. The vegetation characterizing this grassland habitat does not meet the criteria for a jurisdictional wetland. Giant wildrye, a facultative upland (FACU) species, dominates this habitat and has greater than 100% cover over much of its areal extent. Scarlet pimpernel (Anagallis arvensis), a facultative (FAC) indicator species has a dominance estimated to be less than 5%. The remaining species which have cover values estimated to be greater than 1 % are black mustard (Brassica nigra), white-stem filaree (Erodium moschatum), and mesa bush mallow (Malacothamnus fasciculatus) seedlings. None of these are wetland indicator species. In order to be considered a wetland a least 50% of the dominant species must be obligate (OBL), facultative wetland (FACW) or FAC indicator species. The only truly dominate species in this habitat is wildrye (FACU). Even if the non-dominate species are considered only scarlet pimpernel is a FAC species and only 20% of the top five species are FAC or better. Therefore this habitat does not meet the vegetation criteria for Corps jurisdictional wetland. It should be noted that a fire occurred adjacent to and within this area within the last few years. The slopes on the south side of the canyon burned and crown sprouting chamise is present. The stem of a burned shrub occurs within the upper end of the wildrye dominated area. It is likely that the delineated area was also affected by the fire. The U.S. Soil Conservation Service (Bowman 1979) mapped soils on the area as Las Flores loamy fine sand. While this soil type is not listed as a hydric soil, the soils of the wildrye dominated habitat have characteristics of a hydric soil. All soil colors were determined after moistening the sample and waiting for the surface sheen to dissipate. Soil colors were determined using the Munsell Soil Color Chart at approximately 1330 under cloudy conditions. The upper /2 inch of the soil is characterized as recently deposited sediments including approximately 1/4 inch of light brownish gray sand (10YR 7/2) and approximately 1/4 inch of charcoal and carbonized plant Ms. Sherri Howard August 18, 1997 Page 4 remains (10YR 2/1). The surrounding habitat burned within the last few years and these upper layers are probably derived from sediments carried by runoff from the nearby slopes. The A horizon is approximately 3 inches deep and is a coarse sand with some clay. Its matrix color is 7.5 YR 3/3 with approximately 40% mottles of varying color as light as 10 YR 6/4. At approximately 8 inches the B horizon is a black (7.5 YR 2.5/1), clayey sand with no mottles and is slightly moist. Between 3 inches and 8 inches the soil is black (7.5 YR 2.5/1) clayey sand and dry. The low chroma characterizing the B horizon indicates that this is a hydric soil. While mottles in the A horizon are not necessarily a hydric soil indicator they suggest the presence of saturated conditions associated with a fluctuating water table during some portion of the year. The low chroma of the B horizon suggests that this soil has been constantly saturated for long periods at some point in its history. Several indicators of wetland hydrology are present at the sample location. The low berm along the SDG&E access road appears to be high enough to create a basin topography. While it is not known how long this berm has been present the City of Carlsbad Orthophoto topographic map of the area (Map 1) indicates that this road has been there since at least 1988 and probably was constructed many years before that. This habitat is also located in the bottom of a relatively flat portion of the drainage and any surface flow reaching this point would be likely to remain ponded behind the berm. This location may also represent an area where groundwater surfaces. At lower elevations in the canyon three areas with nearly 100 % cover of mariposa rush (Juncus dubius) (FACW) and deer grass (Muhienbergia rigens) (FACW) occur on gently sloping to relatively flat terrain on the canyon floor. Areas dominated by mariposa rush extend to elevations as much as 10 feet above the lowest adjacent portion of the canyon. The soils on these areas vary from sandy to clayey and water must be present near the surface for extended periods to allow FACW species to dominate the habitat. These areas probably represent vernal seeps where surfacing groundwater and/or surface flows create wetland conditions. A small excavation (6-8 inches deep) has been dug along a portion of the south edge of the delineated area. It appears to have been dug this year since little or no vegetation was rooted in it. The excavation does not appear to be extensive enough to effectively drain this area and is located at an elevation at least 6 inches above the lowest portion of the area and the berm does not appear to have been breached. Ms. Sherri Howard August 18, 1997 Page 5 Normal Conditions Several potential indicators of atypical conditions are present. These include: the berm along the road, the excavation along the south edge of the delineated area, and evidence of fire adjacent to and within the wildrye dominated area. The shallow berm along the SDG&E access road is the result of human activity and probably increases the period of inundation within the wildrye dominated area. This feature increases the water available to the area but it is not known how long the berm has been in place. The very low chroma of the area's soil and its location on a relatively flat portion of the canyon floor suggest that this area may have had a wetland hydrology prior to the placement of the berm. The presence of the excavation along the south edge of the delineated area may have the potential to increase the depth at which extended soil saturation occurs. However, it is apparently of recent origin and shallow depth that would not be expected to have created conditions sufficient for wildrye to completely replace species dependent on wetland conditions. The occurrence of a fire on the delineated area in the recent past may have had the potential to alter the vegetation by removing wetland dependent species. However the absence of any water dependent species and only one facultative species combined with the very high cover and density of wildrye suggests that wildrye has probably dominated this area for an extended period of time. The presence of low chroma soils suggest that this area has functioned as a wetland in the past. The source of sufficient water to create hydric soils is not however obvious. The presence of a nearby willow dominated woodland with a well developed upland shrub story and upland understory suggests that more water at or near the surface may have been present in the canyon in the past. Whether this was naturally occurring groundwater or resulted from the agricultural operations on the relatively flat terrain above the canyon is unknown. In any case, the strong upland component of the willow woodlands understory suggests that changes in the total amount of available water probably occurred many years ago. It is likely that the existing vegetation and hydrology has not changed significantly in the last five years. This is interpreted to indicate that the existing conditions are normal circumstances for the delineated area. Ms. Sherri Howard August 18, 1997 Page 6 Pre-jurisdictional Wetland Determination While the hydric soil and hydrology criteria for a wetland habitat are met in the delineated area, the vegetation criteria is not met. In addition, sufficient evidence of an atypical situation is not present. Therefore, the delineated area does not appear to represent a wetland under the jurisdiction of the Corps. The presence of hydric soils and indicators of wetland hydrology do however suggest that this area represents waters of the United States. Summary A 0.24 acre willow woodland located in an unnamed canyon between Station 49+00 and Station 60+00 does not represent a jurisdictional wetland nor would it be adversely affected by the Cannon Road Reach 1 project. In addition a pre-jurisdictional delineation of a wildrye dominated grassland that would be removed by construction of the Cannon Road Reach 1 project indicates that this habitat does not represent a wetland under the jurisdiction of the Corps but may represent waters of the United States. Thank you for the opportunity to provide the City with the services reported in this letter. If you have questions regarding this matter please contact me or Ms Betty Dehoney at (619) 718-9676. Sincerely, Wa unch7fr Principal Biologist 90UTI NE DATA FORM WETLAND DETERMINATION• 0987 COE Wetlands Delineation Manual) Project/Site: O ng,9 (o-eL- Date: 9 / / f/'7 Applicant/Owner: c r-j r'n. y ( llf1 ri County: Investigator: Pj; i 'p L. State: cc, 1,* Do Normal Circumstances exist on the site? tj1> No Community ID: A14,jivk rayAzL Is the site significantly disturbed (Atypical Situation)? Yes c6 7 Transect ID: Is the area a potential Problem Area? No Plot ID: (If needed, explain on reverse.) I VEPTATION Dominant Plant Species Stratum Indicator 1.1.. c . K FAc lr.'JV4 4 c.Ji , c-.sc ltpi.J, #4c ke.i - Wt ,, L(• DominantPlantSpecies Stratum Indicator 16. Percent of Dominant Species that are .OBL. FACW or FAC (excluding FAC-). . Remarks: (- 1. - 2. - w 2C. Sf e.C- c- . 1L-. L- HYDROLOGY - Recorded Data (Describe in Remarks): - Stream. Lake, or Tide Gauge — Aerial Photographs — Other - No Recorded Data Available Wetland Hydrology Indicators: Primary Indicators: - Inundated - — Saturated in Upper 12 Inches Water Marks Drift Lines Sediment Deposits L Drainage Patterns in Wetlands Field Observations: Secondary Indicators (2 or more required): Depth of Surface Water: (in.) - Oxidized Root Channels in Upper 12 Inches - Water-Stained Leaves Depth to Free Water in Pit: (in.) — Local Soil Survey Data - FAC-Neutral Test Depth to Saturated Soil: (in.) Other (Explain in Remarks) Remarks: 3-3 SOILS Map Unit Name (Series and Phase): L,1. (t -t cz Drainage Class: Field Observations Taxonomy (Subgroup): Confirm Mapped Type? Yes Profile Description: Depth Matrix Color Mottle Colors Mottle Texture. Concretions, (inches) Horizon (Munsell Moist) (Munsell Moist) Abundance/Contrast Structure. etc. /0 y7/Z A- /6 tI2/1 ?.c'rr3/3 lo '1O1f CIo- 3-I Hydric Soil Indicators: - Histosol - Concretions Histic Epipadon - High Organic Content in Surface Layer in Sandy Soils Sulfidic Odor - Organic Streaking in Sandy Soils Aquic Moisture Regime - Listed on Local Hydric Soils List - Reducing Conditions Listed on National Hydric Soils List Glayed or Low•Chroma Colors - Other (Explain in Remarks) Remarks: r S go C L .S ii • ° F (- WETLAND DETERMINATION Hydrophytic Vegetation Present? Yes aw (Crcla) (Circle) Wetland Hydrology Present? No Hydric Soils Present? No Is this Sampling Point Within a Wetland? Yes Remarks: 1L a. ; -p h 3-4 i*7I.1']'iJJi!4J'Uir CITY ArrrcLv 0. . •'. om • . C.. *4 •1 - * - . .. - .' . . / OF5 . . . . :-.. :V Jov " Ii II Uf - •... . ... : . . - .•• -- r 'I t 1• 1 - * S..V' - - 5' •r•, - -• .m - - - - * '7.0 IF sf; :. ,, _..• I- • 1''__ - 4' ,; I - - - . •?••44K . •'-- __j •- .... •- . . . . '- S ••,. . -. S. ite -I ..• 4.. :i ••.•- -I .. .5• I- • . .: 1. — f Jo ' a ,1 ik • d X 46 45, IV ' .t _.. - - d.5 E.- -- ). • •. : .' - :.. • . -. -• • •-i• -- - e-'- -S. • - . :.:;,: .. • '. 040 -0 ____ -•, 1 - -, -,'--. ,..- - --_ _0 - - - -- - - -• )• -' - -.• - - I - - £7 - - _ ----- - -- - :-: -r.. •.-' '77,• .f: ; - . ; -:T.T•. - - . S.. - •• : • -- .. - • -5-...................-. -.5 ... S •. . • - - -S • -- ---- - 5-- -54 g! ; CD c a) - E-6 • c - ) CD - C C") ;/••.. ,. aC/) .3 - OEO CL •t ,-_ .= u)O.c 0) o CD CY• W sy .S?O Eom o 1 ou ., I E> ° o -- o (l) C CL Q < ma v co JUN-1e-g7 12r55 FROMTETRA TECH ID'6197199G98 PAGE 1/I I Tetra Tech, Inc. 591 Camino de la Reina. Suite 640 San Diego CA 92108 Telephone (619) 718-9676 Fox (619)718-9698 10 Shem Howard FROM Betty Deboney DATE June 16, 1997 RE Sensitive Species Surveys Least Bell's vireos have not been sighted in Macarto Canyon as of this date. Three singing males have been sighted approximately 03 miles south of the El Camino Real Bridge in the Reach 2 vicinity. At this time no nesting has occurred on either Reach 1 or Reach 2. Willow flycatchers (2) have been sighted in Macarm Canyon; howeve r , their breeding status is unknown at this time. Arroyo toad surveys were negative for both Macario Canyon and El Camino Real drainages. Surveys for Pacific pocket mice for the Carlsbad Golf Course were also negative TECH io TETRA TECH, INC. 591 Camino do b Reia. Suite €40 San Diego. Calilofflin 92102 Telephone (619) 718-9676 FAX (619) 718.9698 April 16, 1997 Mr. Richard Freeland Asaro, Keagy, Freeland & McKinley 3170 Fourth Avenue - Fourth Floor San Diego, CA 92103 ft Re: Biological survey results of the Asaro Property Dear Mr. Freeland, Tetra Tech, Inc. conducted a survey of the parcel located at the intersection of El Camino Real and Olivellh2in Road in the City of Carlsbad on March 19, 1997 (Attachment A). This parcel is bounded by these streets on the south and west, by aSan Diego Gas and Electric right-of--way (ROW) on the east and by a recently graded area on the north. Since the boundaries of the site were not staked at the time of the survey, Tetra Tech estimated the location of the northern boundary line from mapped information. The survey included all habitat potentially within the property. Vegetation Three vegetation/habitat types occur on the property (Attachment A)- A band of non-native grassland is located adjacent to Olivenhain Road and extends a short distance around the steep slope above El Camino Real. Southern maritime chaparral occurs along t h e n o r t h e r n a n d eastern boundaries extending south to the non-native grassland and west nearly to El Camino Real., A parch of Diegan coastal sage scrub is located between the southern maritime chaparral and El Canino Real while another is located between the chapa r r a l v e g e t a t i o n and non-native grasslancL Non-native grassland occurs on soils mapped as Altamont clay. The dom i n a n t s p e c i e s a r e wild car, coyote thistle, red brome, tip-gut brome black mustard and f s c i c l e d t a r w e e d , a n d others (Attachment B). While none of the species observed in non-native grassland are listed JUL-29-97 0746 FROM;TETRA TECH M.-61971eBBSe PAGE 'I as threatened or: endangered by thë.U.S. Fish and Wildlife (Service) or California' Dparttiient of Fish and Game (Department), a potential exists for thread-leafed brodiaea to our on Altamont clay soils with non-native grassland cover in the Carlsbad area. Thread- leafedbrôdiaea is listed as endangered ,by the Department and is proposed for listing as thretened by the ) On the site, Southern maritime chaparral occurs on thin soils over sandstone. Portions have relatively low cover dominated by ch2mise and extensive open areas between the shrubs. Other portions of southern inanthne chaparral on the site have higher shrub cover and a more diverse species composition. 1pical shrub species include, toyon, red xnonker flower, scrub oak and San Diego honeysucide. A sparse understory of grasses and forba is present betwàën and beneath the shrubs Typil species include California bee plant, wild hyacinth, blue witch and foothill stipL Three Del Mar mamamta shrubs occur in Southern maritime chaparral on the ridge line running in a southwest direction across the site. One Del Mar m2n7n1ra was observed at about the mid-point of the northern study area boundary. It ii not clear If this shrub is within the property boundary or is on the adjoining parcel. This species is listed as endangered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Diegan cstaLsage scrub is dominated by California sagebrush on this sit. Other shrubs include poison oak, red monkey flower, coyote bush and lemonade berry. The understory is dotninaredby non-native herbs and grasses including coyote thistle, foxtail and red bzvmó. The native California bee plant is one of the more abundant native forbs. - -. A roa4 has been. graded along the south facing slope of the property. It traverses non-native grassland for most of its length but turns north near El Camino Real and climbs the slope into the Southern maritime chaparral. Wildlife . The majority of the wildlife species observed on-site were birds (Attachment C). In addition, western fence frzanl, side-blotch lizard and California ground squirrel also occur on the site. All are considered to be representative of the wildlife habitat present No sensitive faunJ species were detected during the survey. Due to the occurrence of coastal sage scrub an the site, special attention given to the possible presence of the coastal California gnatcatcher. None were detected. Constraints and Opportunities Southern maritime cba$rzal and Diegan coastal sage scrub are sensitive habitat types. They arecovered by the City of Carlsbad's Draft Habitat Management Plan (DHMP). Loss Of these habitat types would require mitigation. Mitigation would likely entail acquisition and preservation of off-site resources. - . JUL-29-97 074E FROM.TETRA TECH ID-SIS718SSSB FACE 4/8 Del Mar manzanita is listed as endangered and consultation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is recenunend if development is contemplated prior, to acceptance and implementation of the DHMP. Since this population is sinail and o=rs in fragmented habitat it is expected that the Service will have a low priority for cu-site preservation. Mitigation may include purchase and preservation of southern maritime chaparral habitat on which a larger amount of Del Mar 1n2nita grows. Transplantation of the individuals could also be required. The presence of potential habitat for thread-leaf brodiaea indicates that a survey for this species should be conducted during the May blooming period. Thread-leaf brodiaea is very difficult to detect before or after blooming. Weather during March has been considerably warmer than normal. If this trend continues, brodiaea is likely to bloom early in May. A cooler than normal April could delay the bloom peri&l until later in the month. If thread-leaf brodiaea is determine to oair on the site, mitigation would likely be similar to that required for Del Mar maxiianita. Tetra Tech. Inc. appreciates the opportunity to work With you on this project. If you have any questions on this matter please contact me or Betty Dehoney at (619) 718-9676. Sincerely, TETRA TEca, INC Philip M. Bunch Principal Biologist NORTHWESTERN PACIFIC RAILROAD APN 255-023-01 1! oft wman ACREAGE .127 ac. .375 ac. NNG (TOTAL) 2.10 ac. NNG (MINUS NEW OLIVENHAIN RD.) 943 ac. SMC 2.05 ac. SMC (OUTSIDE LIMITS OF GRADING) 1.83 ac. AGC 025 ac. JUL-29-97 ø8OB FROM -TETRA TECH bi'B Atichment B-Plant species observed on the study area. Scientific Name : Common ne Dicotyledons Adenostomafasciculaiwn Ambrosia psilostachya western ragweed Amthzclda meiwzesri var. intermedia ranchea's reweed Anagallir €'ersis1 scarlet pimpernel Anlizrhinwn nuttalliwrwi sap. subsessile. Nuttall's snapdragon Apias#zon wigusfoliwn mock parsley ArctostaphylosgLmthdosa ssp crasszfalia costa. baja irthL4. Artemisia californica Caliibrtha sagebrush 4frip1ex semibaccala' Australian saitbush Baccharispilutwis coyote brush Brassica nigra' black mustard Calytegia macrostegia sap. lenusfolia narrow-leaf morning-glory Camissonia bistoria %Califonia sun cup Cordionema ramosissirman tread lightly Castilleja ccww ssp. amm mrple owl's-clover Centawaa inelitensis' tocalote Cenâzwn vemistion canchalagna Ozorizanthefimbriata varflnthriata flinged spineflower co"WIM1W Wven3W bindweed Ojpiantha cleveLwdii Qevelañd's cryptantha C)noracaramcukd cardóon Encelia athfamica Califirnna encelia EmocaptgenLr doveweed FAogonnfc.ccic'ftnn var.fiaslazmr flat-top buckwheat Fjiop/ryllwn crtflcnan var. conferhjlorwn golden-.yarrow &odiwn moschm .wblstem filaree Fikzgo cciiformca California Llago Focnialum vulgare' Galiwn ni4tnllil sap. nuitaWl Nuttalls bedstaw Galiwn aparineZ goose wass Gnapluzliwn cane=m sap. beneolens hagrant everlasting Hazard/a squarrosa sap. rindelioldes saw-toothed goldenbush Hen izonia fasciculata fided tarweed Heterotheca grw*ñY7onu telegraph weed HrscJf1dia incond S short-pod mustard Isocoma menzieszi var. menzfesii goldenbush Jepsoniapo27yi coast jepsonia Lactuca seiriold wild lettuce Lssingiafilagimfolia var. filaginifolia cudweed aster Lonicera spic-siavaz dmudata San Diego honeysuckle spods 3ud Aeu-UON - I. S1UOWJ4 ;yMowats7wpz22.1Z tn1( OA1O}4 ?M2PIY' 'ZA 3ISJ p3xOJ MnsaY 7"A mzni(zU v4n4 sst.a-pA.onjq zwzjpq zwizpLqdS7g ssjpaaugqooj vpidaz 2,Jpm,N ssE12L1 ueflj 1UflJOl1#P" '°W°7 __ 1UizJIWj dss swiuwiw zwzapioH pU pjlM ZW1W#&o *dSS =M*o VUWLa7SO13lP!7 nTA 3nd1 rmfuw S72WOJ woiq pal 1suaq1u dss S U •4IVUL SflWO4ff SSt 3J0S r"'9P2°'! smuog no PWA iapurS pwqwq vuMy 20 ppa T JVU24V uopaj4o30uoic IzLugW uoissiw .iojo;q s'°'oz4X TSU72 V3042 o-uosod uzsa, uqofLtJMç uo.ua'po!xo.z uou=oo fg73U1 VLLZ7fV Lznids-pucs spuo=ng qJLOO.Oq vuz1niadg MOS UOWUIOO 1S1Za3VJaO S71P1t0S tj32At OlIN W7L12Jlfl3qW7Z UOWJS AUPM uouiwoo .izijp2 duJJS wqd =qv!moM vpW2qu0j[JeA v paqqvz' vuvpaqdog apwvs OI*J 11LV £77ZUD' Gs 3pm zwfiujau vztjvg £iiaqapuouia • • • 1S,M#11VS71UVX/thW • 1O qtuS v.qofiyLwq"q S,JanO wd auoqqsua ImlOJl3 UflUJOJ1DD s77iqvJ iaoiuom pal oaiu us W1OJ t S720DP1W.DW 57177iW!jlf spGSO1DUI fl&tO flI VyizLzIfvJd &s wj2nop suasoijij • • • a&opmq inuoJq vqLtzow4od o2v'apij punoqo1oI 1aIrpl4t LWUqZJJJVJjT S7idiVOJVW -jzA SntZWOc22DW Z/ZWJ MOfltU-fl1J VSOJJf97 DJ7aItJVJ4T 3WnS PMR • VUDWI VUdY1/Vfr%J auidni Ouu 5m4dn7 TE15 3 SilL OX itsyjz,doos .S7Z1O7 • H33.L 8ø8O Ls JUL729-97 0809 FROM:TETRA TECH ID61g7199Gg8 PACE 8/8 Attachment C - Wildlife Species observed at the Study Ara Birds ientfk Name Common Name guilsp. Zenaida maaowu Mourning dove Geococcyxcalifonzianrss greaterroadnmn Ca'ft mm Anna's hummingbird Twwvnis wrcalis wesrn idagbird Stelgidopteiyx northern rough-winged &wallow Psaibiparl4s mifllmtLr bushtit ch7meafzq - Mimuspolygloffos northern inockmgbird Toxostoma rerEvivWfl Caiifbmia thiasher Sturnus Vulgw7S European starling Pipilo crfszalis Califimia, towhee Melarpiza melocila song sparrow AgeiaEusphoenicus red-winged blackbird Carpodacus mcwius house finch Additional species obswed. jetific Name Common Name OmWffnwphiIus hewheW C ground s(pirTci Sce1op"us occidentalis western fence lizard Utastrmthruiwra side-blotched lizard Pieris rapae cabbage butterfly Vant93 atatw#a red admiral butterfly it TETRA TECH, INC. 565 Pearl Street, Suite 200 La Jolla. California 92037 Telephone (619) 454-2313 FAX (619) 454-4616 September 4, 1996 Ms. Sherri Howard City of Carlsbad Engineering Department 2075 Las Palmas Drive Carlsbad CA 92009-1576. RE: Cannon Road Reach I Least Bell's Vireo Surveys - Spring 1996 Dear Ms. Howard: The purpose of this letter is to provide information on use of the habitat within Cannon Road Reach I and adjacent Macario Canyon by the state and federally endangered least Bell's vireo ( Vireo bellii pusillus). This information is intended to be used to determine appropriate mitigation for permit processing. The project area (Cannon Road Reach I alignment and Macario Canyon) was surveyed eight times throughout the spring of 1996. General surveys were conducted to relocate the least Bell's vireo sighting made in 1995, and to document the occurrence of birds in 1996. Survey information is provided in Table 1 below. One pair of least Bell's vireo and one single male vireo were identified within the survey area. The pair was located early in the survey schedule and occupied riparian habitat in the northern portion of Macario Canyon, just south of the limits of the agricultural fields (see attached map). A closer look at the female revealed she was a banded bird from the San Luis Rey River. This pair was late in nesting, and when they finally did attempt a nest, it was abandoned within two weeks. The pair was never seen after this, and it is presumed that they either moved out of the area, or one or both died. The single male vireo was located within the Cannon Road Reach I alignment; its territory occupying the area to the northwest of the dirt road (see attached map). A female was never seen with this male, even though at times the male did behave as if he was paired. During the last two surveys this male was observed vocalizing and triangulating, which is indicative of advertisement to a female. He was also using a larger territory than he had in the past, which included the pairs' identified territory. These vireos were very difficult to follow and as nesting was not successful, it is difficult to determine the final results of the 1996 breeding season. Great numbers of brown-headed cowbirds (Molothrus ater) were present during all surveys and these birds are known to parasitize vireos, resulting in nest abandonment and unsuccessful ficdging. The initiation of the cowbird trapping program specified in the Biological Opinion should commence if this site is to be used as riparian and least Bell's vireo mitigation for the Cannon Road impacts. TErRA TECH, INC. Ms. Sherri Howard Page 2 September 4, 1996 In addition, three southwestern willow flycatchers (Empidonax trailli extimus) were observed foraging in the northwestern portion of Macario Canyon. The southwestern willow flycatcher is listed as both federally and state endangered. These birds prefer willow thickets in mature riparian woodlands for breeding and nesting. The flycatchers were observed only once on 7 June 1996, indicating they were probably just using the area as a stopover while moving through the area.. The 1996 spring survey data also revealed five to six yellow-breasted chats (Icteria virens) and four pairs of blue grosbeaks (Guiraca caerulea). This birds are considered regionally sensitive by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service and are listed as Species of Special Concern by the California Department of Fish and Game. In addition, many species of warblers and raptors were observed foraging and nesting onsite. Attached with this letter is a orthotopographic map with specific marked locations of both the least Bell's vireos and the southwestern willow flycatchers during the 1996 spring surveys. In addition, a complete list of animal species observed during the surveys is included in Table 2. If you have any questions or comments regarding the above information please do not hesitate to call me at 454-2313 (x105). Sincerely, Kim Miller Biologist Ms. Sherri Howard Page September 4, 1996 Table 1 Survey Schedule Date Time Weather Conditions I_ Surveyors 12 April 1996 0700-1100 58°F-73°F Kim Miller Partly cloudy Patrice Ashfield Winds Beaufort 0-1 18 April 1996 0750-1110 62°F-72°F Kim Miller Sunny Patrice Ashfield Winds Beaufort 0-1 26 April 1996 0710-1100 65°F-72°F Kim Miller Overcast Patrice Ashfield Winds Beaufort 0-1 03 May 1996 0645-1000 65°F-72°F Kim Miller Overcast Patrice Ashfield Winds Beaufort 0-1 Table 2 Animal Species Observed at the Proposed Cannon Road Reach 1 Site - Macario Canyon Scientific Name Common Name Birds Ardea herodias great blue heron Egrerra (hula snowy egret Butorides srriatus green-backed heron Anas platyrhynchos mallard Cathartes aura turkey vulture Elanus caeruleus black-shouldered kite Accipiter striarus sharp-shinned hawk Accipiter cooperii Cooper's hawk Buteo lineatus red-shouldered hawk Buteojamaicensis red-tailed hawk (nest and fledgling) Falco sparverius American kestrel Callipepla californica California quail Charadrius vociferus killdeer Larussp. Gull sp. Zenaida macroura mourning dove Aeronautes saxatalis white-throated swift Calypte costae Costa's hummingbird Calypte anna Anna's hummingbird Selasphorus rufus rufous hummingbird Picoides nurtallii Nuttall's woodpecker Contopus sordidulus western wood-pewee Empidonax trailiii extimus southwestern willow flycatcher Myiarchus cinerascens ash-throated flycatcher Sayornis nigri cans black phoebe Empidonax difficilis pacific-sloped flycatcher Eremophila alpesrris horned lark Tachvcineta bicolor tree swallow Scientific Name Common Name Birds cont'd Stelgidopteryx serripennis northern rough-winged swallow Hirundo pyrrhonota cliff swallow Hirundo rustica barn swallow Garrulus californicus western scrub-jay Corvus corax common raven Psaltriparus minimus bush tit Chamaeafasciata wrentit Thyromanes bewickii Bewick's wren Troglodytes aedon house wren Cistothorus palustris marsh wren Polioptila californica caltfornica coastal California gnatcatcher Mimus polyglottos northern mockingbird Toxostoma redivivum California thrasher Sturnus vulgaris European starling Vireo bellii pusillus least Bell's vireo Vireo gilvus warbling vireo Vermivora celata orange-crowned warbler Ver,nivora ruficapilla Nashville warbler Dendroica petechia yellow warbler Dendroica coronata yellow-rumped warbler Oporornis tohniei S MacGillvray's warbler Wilsonia pusilla Wilson's warbler Geothlypis trichas common yellowthroat lcteriO virens 0 yellow-breasted chat Pheucticus melanocephalus black-headed grosbeak Guiraca caerulea blue grosbeak Pipilo maculatus spotted towhee Pipilo crissalis California towhee Melospiza melodia song sparrow Zonotrichia leucophrvs white-crowned sparrow Scientific Name Conunon Name Birds cont'd Sturnella neglecta European starling Agelaius phoeniceus red-winged blackbird Molothrus ater brown-headed cowbird Icterus bullockii northern "Bullocks" oriole Icterus cucullatus hooded oriole Carduelis tristis American goldfinch Carduelis psaltria lesser goldfinch Carpodacus mexicanus house finch Invertebrates Anthocharissara Sara's orange-tip butterfly Papilio rutulus western tiger swallowtail Pieris rapae cabbage butterfly Mammals Canis latrans coyote (scat) Otospermophilus beecheyi California ground squirrel Procyon lotor raccoon (tracks) Sylvilagus bachmanii S brush rabbit Reptiles Cnemidophorus hyperythrus beldingii orange-throated whiptail lizard Sceloporus occidentalis western fence lizard 1:0 TETRA TECH, INC. 565 Peed Street. Sufte 200 La JoUa. CalIfornia 92037 Telephone (619) 464-2313 FAX (619) 454-4616 July 10, 1996 Ms. Sherri Howard City of Carlsbad Engineering Department 2075 Las Palmas Drive Carlsbad CA 92009-1576 RE: Cannon Road Reach I Least Bell's Vireo Surveys - Spring 1996 Dear Ms. Howard: The purpose of this letter is to provide information on use of the habitat within Cannon Road Reach I and adjacent Macario Canyon by the state and federally endangered least Bell's vireo ( Vireo belliipusillus). This information is intended to be used to determine appropriate mitigation for permit processing. The project area (Cannon Road Reach I alignment and Macario Canyon) was surveyed eight times throughout the spring of 1996. General surveys were conducted to relocate the least Bell's vireo sighting made in 1995, and to document the occurrence of birds in 1996. Survey information is provided in Table 1 below. One pair of least Bell's vireo and one single male vireo were identified within the survey area. The pair was located early in the survey schedule and occupied riparian habitat in tie northern portion of Macario Canyon, just south of the limits of the agricultural fields (see attached map). A closer look at the female revealed she was a banded bird from the San Luis Rey River. This pair was late in nesting, and when they finally did attempt a nest, it was abandoned within two weeks. The pair was never seen after this, and it is presumed that they either moved out of the area, or one or both died. The single male vireo was located within the Cannon Road Reach I alignment; its territory. occupying the area to the northwest of the dirt road (see attached map). A female was never seen with this male, even though at times the male did behave as if he was paired. During the last two surveys this male was observed vocalizing and triangulating, which is indicative of advertisement to a female. He was also using a larger territory than he had in the past, which included the pairs' identified territory. These vireos were very difficult to follow and as nesting was not successful, it is difficult to determine the final results of the 1996 breeding season. Great numbers of brown-headed cowbirds (Molothrus ater) were present during all surveys and these birds are known to parasitize vireos, resulting in nest abandonment and unsuccessful fledging. The presence of these birds may have contributed to the observed unsuccessful nesting. The initiation of the cowbird trapping program specified in. the TETRA TECH. INC. Ms. Sherri Howard Page 2 July 10, 1996 Biological Opinion should commence in-the 1997 season if this site is to be used as riparian and least Bell's vireo mitigation for the Cannon Road impacts. In addition, three southwestern willow flycatchers (Empidonax trailli extimus) were observed foraging in the northwestern portion of Macario Canyon. The southwestern willow flycatcher is listed as both federally and state endangered. These birds prefer willow thickets in mature riparian woodlands for breeding and nesting. The flycatchers were observed only once on 7 June 1996, indicating they were probably just using the area as a stopover while moving through the area.. The 1996 spring survey data also revealed five to six yellow-breasted chats (Icteria virens) and four pairs of blue grosbeaks(Guiraca caerulea). This birds are considered regionally sensitive by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service and are listed as Species of Special Concern by the California Department of Fish and Game. In addition, many species of warblers and raptors were observed foraging and nesting onsite. Macario Canyon, even though extensively disturbed, does provide habitat for many species of birds and also may serve as an important migratory overlay for the southwestern willow flycatcher. Attached with this letter is a orthotopographic map with specific marked locations of both the least Bell's vireos and the southwestern willow flycatchers during the 1996 spring surveys. In addition, a complete list of animal species observed during the surveys is included in Table 2. If you have any questions or comments regarding the above information please do not hesitate to call me at 454-2313 (x105). Sincerely, Kim Miller Biologist Table 1 Survey Schedule Date Time Weather Conditions Surveyors 12 April 1996 0700-1100 580F-73°F Kim Miller Partly cloudy Patrice Ashfield Winds Beaufort 0-1 18 April 1996 6750-i 110 62°F-72°F Kim Miller Sunny Patrice Ashfield Winds Beaufort 0-1 26 April 1996 0710-1100 650F-72°F Kim Miller Overcast Patrice Ashfield Winds Beaufort 0-1 03 May 1996 0645-1000 650F-72°F Kim Miller Overcast Patrice Ashfield Winds Beaufort 0-1 10 May 1996 0655-1030 65°F-77°F Kim Miller Partly cloudy Patrice Ashfield Winds Beaufort 0-1 24 May 1996 0720-1000 620F-65°F Kim Miller Overcast, slight drizzle Patrice Ashfield Winds Beaufort 2-3 + 07 June 1996 0820-1205 650F-78°F Kim Miller Partly cloudy Patrice Ashfield Winds Beaufort 1-2 21 June 1996 0745-1030 62°F-72°F Kim Miller - Partly Cloudy Patrice Ashfield • Winds Beaufort 1-2 . Table 2 Animal Species Observed at the Proposed Cannon Road Reach 1 Site - Macario Canyon Scientific Name Common Name Birds Ardea herodias great blue heron Egretta thula snowy egret Butorides striatus green-backed heron Anas platyrhynchos mallard Cathartes aura turkey vulture Elanus caeruleus black-shouldered kite Accipiter striarus sharp-shinned hawk Accipiter cooperii Coopers hawk Buteo lineatus red-shouldered hawk Buteojwnaicensis red-tailed hawk (nest and fledgling) Falco sparverius American kestrel Callipepla californica California quail Charadri us vociferus killdeer Larus sp. Gull sp. Zenaida macroura mourning dove Aeronautes saxatalis white-throated swift Calypte costae Costa's hummingbird Calypte anna Anna's hummingbird Selasphorus rufus rufous hummingbird Picoides nuttallii Nuttall's woodpecker Conropus sordidulus western wood-pewee Empidonax traillii e.xti,hus southwestern willow flycatcher Myiarchus cinerascens ash-throated flycatcher Sayornis nigricans black phoebe Empidonax dJficilis pacific-sloped flycatcher Eremophila alpestris horned lark Tachycineta bicolor tree swallow Scientific Name - Common Name Birds cont'd S Stelgidopteryx serripennis - -- . northern rough-winged swallow Hirundo pyrrhonota S cliff swallow Hirundo rustica - barn swallow Garrulus californicus - 5- western scrub-jay -' - Corvus corox - common raven Psaltriparus minimus -- . bushtit - - - Chamaeafasciata - wrentit -- . - Thyromanes bewickii - - - Bewick's wren Troglodytes aedon - - house wren Cistothorus palustris marsh wren Polioptila calfornica californica - -. coastal California gnatcatcher S - Mimus polyglottos northern mockingbird - Toxostoma redivivum . - S - California thrasher Sturnus vulgaris - - European starling Vireo belliipusillus least Bell's vireo ' -- -- - - Vireo gilvus - warbling vireo Vermivora celata - - - - - orange-crowned warbler - - - Vermivora ruficapilla - Nashville warbler - - Dendroica petechia -. - yellow warbler Dendroica coronata - -, - , - yellow-rumped warbler - - - -. Oporornis tolrniei 5- MacGillvray's warbler - S Wilsoniapusilla - ------------- Wilson's warbler - S Georhlypis trichas -- 5- common yellowthroat Icteria virens - - - - yellow-breasted chat Pheucticus melanocephalus black-headed grosbeak - - Guiraca caerulea blue grosbeak - - - - -. Pipilo maculatus - S - spotted towhee Pipilo crissalis S - California towhe& Melospiza melodia - song sparrow Zonotrichia leucophrys . S - white-crowned sparrow - 5-- - _SS _•• - 5-.. - * . - 5- -. -- S - . •-:: - - - - S. 5- - -S 5- ---• - • -I - Scientific Name Common Name Birds cont'd Sturnella neglecta European starling Agelaiusphoeniceus red-winged blackbird Molothrus.ater brown-headed cowbird Icterus bullockii northern "Bullocks" oriole Icterus cucullatus hooded oriole Carduelis tristis American goldfinch Carduelis psaltria lesser goldfinch Carpodacus mexicanus house finch Invertebrates S Anthocharis sara Sara's orange-tip butterfly Papilzo rutulus western tiger swallowtail Pieris rapae cabbage butterfly Mammals Canis latrans coyote (scat) Otospermoplzllus beecheyi California ground squirrel Procyon lotor raccoon (tracks) Sylvilagus bachmanii brush rabbit Reptiles Cnemidophorus hyperythrus beldingii orange-throated whiptail lizard Sceloporus occidentalis western fence lizard 7- : RECEIVED TETRA TECH,. INC. 565 Pearl Street, Suite 200 Là Jolla, CA 92037 Telephone (619) 454-2313 FAX (619) 4544616 September 14, 1995 Ms Sherri Howard City of Carlsbad 2075 TA Palins Carlsbad CA 92019 Subject California Gnatcatcher Mitigation Site Analysis Per Ms. Howard, The following information summarizes the results of a study for California gnatcatcher mitigation forCannn, Road Reach 1. Cannon Road Reach 1 would impact approximately 5.5 acres of occupied habitat (2A acres of coastal sage scrub and 3.1 acres of chaparral habitat) affecting five California gnatcatcher pairs This letter report serves to assist the City in the decision making process for the mitigation for this species and its associated habitat. Introduction The coastal sage scrub onsite is heavily influenced by chaparral species. The proposed habitat impacted encompasses both chaparral and coastal sage scrub habitat, however, the California gnatcatcher occupies both of these habitats onsite.- This analysis assumes that mitigation is required 'for the total acreage impacted of gnatcatcher occupied habitat. The occupied habitat which would be impacted is described below adapted from the EIR for Cannon Road Rëaóh, 1 (March 1989): Ms. Howard I S September 14, 1995 Page "The southern mixed chaparral and the Diegan coastal sage scrub covered the rugged slopes to the west of the Macario Canyon outlet. Patches of coastal sage scrub, also occur on the slopes to the east of the canyon. The mixed chaparral is composed of a variety of large shrubs. including toyon, scrub oak, laurel leaf sumac and coastal white lilac. The Diegan coastal sage scrub is dominated by coastal sage brush with a scattering of other shrubs including California encelia, lenwnadeberry, and prickly pear. Small open areas of native grassland also occur, with needle grass and wildflowers such as checkerbloom, coast jepsonia, wild hyacinth, and blue- eyed grass." The California gnatcatcher has undergone severe population declines in recent years. As of 1990 populations, were estimated at approximately 1200 to 2000 pairs of gnatcatchers (Atwood 1990). Reasons for this species' decline have been attributed to loss and degradation of its preferred habitat, such as development, agricultural conversion, and fuel modification for fire control. Thus the California gnatcatcher was proposed for listing as a federal endangered or threatened species in September, 1991 and designated a federally threatened species in March, 1993, by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). = The City of Carlsbad initiated focused surveys for the California gnatcàtchers for Reach 1 of Cannon Road in 1993. Five pairs of California gnatcatchers were found in the survey area (Figure 1). One of the pairs was located on the east side of the bridge at the bridge abutment (California gnatcatchers were previously identified at this location in both 1989 and possibly 1983). It was noted by the field biologist that a pair existed at this location during the 1992 and 1993 least Bell's vireo studies conducted for the Cannon Road bridge project. The remaining four pairs were occupying sage scrub and chaparral habitat on the slopes of several slopes between Macario Canyon and the agricultural fields to the west. During this survey the biologists mapped a "use area" for each pair. This does not necessarily indicate the gnatcatcher's territory but was the area in which the bird was observed for a period of time. This would indicate that the "use area" is at least a part of the territory for that particular pair. Studies conducted in 1994 revealed that California gnatcatchers are still present onsite and are within the same general use areas. Based on the 1993 maps, it appears that two potential territories would be impacted by the road alignment (territories 4 and 5) directly through the loss of a large portion of the use area, whereas the remainder will be slightly impacted with only a minimal loss of gnatcatcher habitat lost on the outer perimeter of the use area. The proposed road alignment will divide territories 2 and 4 to the north from 1 and 3 to the south. Habitat on this western ridge of Macario Canyon continues to'wrap around on the lagoon side to the north. In Cannon Road Reach 1 California Gnatcatcher Mitigation Ms. Howard I S September 14, 1995 Page addition, suitable gnatcatcher habitat, and known gnatcatcher territories, exist to the southeast. Territory 5, on the east side of Macario Canyon would be bisected by the proposed road alignment. This may have an increased negative effect on this pair of birds. It could be anticipated that this pair may abandon the southern portion of this territory and try to increase to the north. Any impact to a federally listed species or its habitat is considered significant and requires consultation with the USFWS. It is anticipated that this project will utilize the 4D process when consulting with the USFWS. This process allows for some take of habitat within the City of Carlsbad, as long as mitigation is consistent with the City's Habitat Management Plan. Although impacts to federally listed species habitat is considered significant, it is not anticipated that this project would result in a loss of individual birds. The proposed alignment of Cannon Road Reach 1, impacts only the very edges of the mapped "use areas" except area number 5. The gnatcatchers tended to stay at the lower elevations within the small canyons and draws of this area In addition, the area is greatly disturbed through numerous SDG&E easements, illegal encampments, and access roads. It appears that the gnatcatcher use areas are currently separated by an existing access road alignment which is used by SDGE. Mitigation Site Alternatives Introduction After discussions with City staff, three mitigation site alternatives were selected for review. The goal of the mitigation site is to replace the same quality of habitat impacted by the Cannon Road Reach 1 offsite but within a conservation area. It is anticipated that if the same quality of habitat is located that a mitigation ratio (based on acreage) would be 1:1 replacement. If habitat is located which is less than optimal but meets other criteria such as presence of California gnatcatchers, consistency with the city HMP, and protection status, that these areas may also be suitable mitigation plans at a 1:1 replacement ratio. If less than suitable habitat is located and does not meet one of the above three criteria than a higher ratio would be required. The ratio would be based on the quality of habitat present. Generally habitat dominated by California sage brush with other species such as flat-topped buckwheat and encelia are of highest quality. The influence of black sage as a co-dominant component makes an area generally moderate quality. The sole dominance of black sage or a large component of chamise, would classify the area as low quality for use by the California gnatcatcher. These definitions are based on current literature for this Cannon Road Reach 1 California Gnatcatcher Mitigation Ms. Howard I September 14, 1995 Page 4 species but are still somewhat subjective. Consultation with the resource agencies would have to be conducted to determine the actual mitigation ratio required. Site 1: Macario Canyon The Macario Canyon Site is located within City owned property within Macario Canyon and north of the creek (Figure 2). No areas south or west of the existing creek were surveyed. The majority of Macario Canyon is under active agriculture. The higher elevations of Macario Canyon support native vegetation, and these areas were the focus of the field surveys. The areas that support native vegetation would be best classified as chaparral, dominated by chamise and manzanita, lemonadeberry, adoiphia and buckwheat. Minimal coastal sage brush occurs in this area. Gnatcatchers were not observed nor heard in this area. Based on the lack of suitable habitat and the lack of gnatcatcher habitation, this area would not be suitable for mitigation of coastal sage scrub for Cannon Road Reach 1. Site 2 Calavera Lake Calavera Lake is located south of Lake Boulevard within the City of Carlsbad. Within the boundaries of Ca!averas lake there are 40 acres of coastal sage scrub habitat present (figure 3). The coastal sage scrub habitat onsite has been intensively surveyed in the past as part of the proposed Carlsbad Golf Course. During that survey the habitat quality and species composition was noted: "On the Calavera Lake site, this habitat represents approximately 40 acres and occurs in three successional phases. A portion of this habitat (generally on the flatter area) is in a degraded and disturbed state. These areas are characterized by very open scrub with California sagebrush, goldenbush, and flat-topped buckwheat spaced approximately 20 feet apart, while the understory is characterized by non-native grass and herb species. The disturbance appears to have been caused by off-road traffic, trash dumping and an SDG&E easement. The second successional phase of Diegan coastal sage scrub on the Calaveras Lake site is dominated by black sage and laurel sumac. California sagebrush occurs in this habitat but to afar lesser degree. This habitat is very dense and generally does not support a diversity of wildlife. The third and final phase of Diegan sage scrub onsite is dominated by California sagebrush with laurel sumac and flat-topped buckwheat. This phase of Diegan sage scrub occurs onsite in only afew small areas within Cannon Road Reach 1 California Gnatcatcher Mitigation -k p NO '*$ NM WU 00 go WHOM Noulk gil ii Ms. Howard S September 14, 1995 Page 5 disturbed zones and on the northwest border where it continues offsite. This habitat is considered high quality and is valuable to species such as the California gnatcatcher, coast horned lizard and orange-throated whiptail." In addition to true coastal sage scrub, Calavera Lake also support a coastal sage scrub-chaparral scrub habitat. This community supported one pair of gnatcatchers during the previous surveys and is discussed below: "Coastal sage scrub-chaparral scrub, which occurs on the north side of a large drainage on the eastern portion of the project site, is a mix of woody chaparral species and drought deciduous sage scrub species (approximately 15 acres). This is apparently a post fire successional community. Characteristic shrubs include chamise, California sage brush, and black sage. This habitat will likely regenerate to Diegan sage scrub due to the south facing nature of the topography." Calavera Lake is currently designated open space by the City of Carlsbad. Calavera Lake is designated as a Core Area within Preserved Planning Area 2 of the City of Carlsbad's Draft Habitat Management Plan. The City may open discussions with the agencies to obtain "credits" from Calavera Lake for City projects. The USFWS and the CDFG would need to agree with the use of Calavera Lake as a mitigation area and establish a "credit" rating for the site. This may be a time consuming process and negotiations should begin immediately. Site 3 Carlsbad Highlands Mitigation Bank The Carlsbad Highlands site is located in the northeastern corner of the City just south of Calavera Lake (figure 4). The proposed property equals 270 acres and is currently being sold as a mitigation bank. This property contains future Cannon Road Reach 4. An easement to protect the future alignment and provide connectivity of Cannon Road was established. Eighty three acres of this parcel has been sold to Caltrans (leaving approximately 180 acres remaining for purchase). Purchase of land within this conservation bank would add to the overall City's goal for habitat conservation. The current rate for acquisition of land from this conservation bank is approximately $13,000 per acre (or per credit). The Cannon Road Reach 1 project would require 5.5 acres (or 5.5 credits). The total mitigation cost would be $71,500 for this purchase. Since the USFWS and the CDFG have already approved Carlsbad Highlands as a conservation bank, this process may be cost effective and less time consuming than obtaining approval of Calavera Lake as a mitigation credit for the city. Cannon Road Reach 1 California Gnatcatcher Mitigation Carlsbad Highlands Conservation Bank TETRA TECH INC. t Figure 4 Ms. Howard I S September 14, 1995 Page 6 Summary In summary, it appears that purchase of land from the Carlsbad Highlands Mitigation Bank would be the most efficient in terms of timing, but would involve, an expenditure of City funds. The Macario Canyon site is not appropriate habitat for mitigation, and Calavera Lake would require extensive consultation and agreement from the resource- agencies. Use of Lake Calavera would be the least expensive since the land is already owned by the City, but it may be a somewhat more time conuming process. If you have any questions or require any additional information please do not hesitate to call. Sincerely, Elyssa K. Robertson Principal Biologist Cannon Road Reach 1 California Gnatcatcher Mitigation JUN 9 1 95 7:24 FROM TETRA—TECH—SDO PAGE .eol LI TETRA TECH, INC. 565 Peal Street, Suite 200 La Jolla, CA 92037 Telephone (619) 454-2313 FAX (619) 4544618 June 7, 1995 City of Carlsbad - 2075 Las Palmas - Cai1sbad,CA 92019 Subject: Least Bell Vireo Survey on Cannon Road Dear M& Howard, Tetra Tech has completed the least Belt's vireo surveys, for Cannon Road Bridge project The riparian habitat on site is described as a riparian woodland dominated by a mixture of tree and shrub willow species. The dominant tree species is the black willow (Sal lx goodingil), while the most common shrubby willow species is the arroyo willow (Salix lasiolepsis). Surveys were completed on May 19 and 26 between the hours of 7:00am and 11:00am by Tricia Skellenger. Weather on those days was overcast in the mornings with an average temperature of 62' F and clear in the afternoon with an average temperature, of 75' E The entire riparian habitat was surveyed on foot using taped vocalizations and binoculars. Results from these surveys show the presence of four least Bell's vireos on the property. One pair of least Bell's vircos were located near the mouth of Macario Canyon. The pair was observed feeding a juvenile and therefore considered to be nesting in the area. On both days individual birds were noted in the chaparaJicoastal sage scrub adjacent to the riparian habitat. One non-territorial male least Bell's vireo was observed higher up the canyon and to the east of the pair of vireos. This male is assumed to be a single non-breeding male due to the infrequency of singing and the lack of a female. If you have any questions or require additional information, please call me at (619) 454- 2313. V Sincere!) Tncia Skellenger Biologist V ** TOTAL PAGE.01 ** TETRA TECH, INC. 6405 Mira Mesa Blvd., Suite 100 S. San Diego; CA 92121 Telephone (619) 450-0365 FAX (619) 450-0626 March 27,1995 Ms. Sherri Howard City of Carlsbad Engineering Department 2075 Las Palmas Drive Carlsbad CA 92009-1576 Subject: Cannon Road Reach 1 California Gnatcátcher Dear Ms. Howard, The following letter report summarizes the historic and existing conditions of the Cannon Road Reach 1, habitat for the California gnatcatcher. This report is in compliance with Task 1, for Reach 1, of our scope of work. Introduction The purpose of this report is to provide information on changes in use of the Cannon Road easement by the California gnatcatcher since 1983, and the current conditions onsite This information will be utilized to determine appropriate mitigation and permit processing. The information provided within this letter is generated from current surveys as well as other pertinent reports. These reports include: Reach 1 Final Environmental Impact Report and Biological Technical Report; Kelly Ranch FEIR and Biological Technical Report; Macario Canyon Least Bell's Vireo letter report; Reach 2 Sewer Supplemental EIR; and California gnatcätcher specific survey (letter report P&D 1993). The project area was surveyed in 1994 to confirm the sightings of 1993. General surveys t relocate each pair were conducted. Once the pair was sighted in the general area of the previously. mapped territory, no additional surveying was conducted. Surveys were conducted on December 14 and December 30 respectively. Conditions were clear and cool. Vocalizations were difficult to elicit, however all pairs were located by the second visit. The California gnatcatcher has undergone severe population declines in recent years. As of 1990. populations were estimated at approximately 1200 to 2000 pairs of gnatcatchers (Atwood 1990). •. Reasons for this species' decline have been attributed to loss and degradation of its preferred habitat, such as development, agricultural conversion, and fuel modification for fire control. Thus the California gnatcatcher was proposed for listing as a federal endangered or threatened species in • - September, 1991 and designated a federally threatened species in March, 1993, by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). . - Ms. Sherri Howard March 27, 1995 Page Background Eastern Side of Macario Canyon 1983: Reach 2 of Cannon Road was assessed as part of the overall Kelly Ranch General Plan Amendment in 1983. Reach 2 extends from the eastern edge of Macario Canyon to its terminus at El Camino Real (Figure 1). Two locations of California gnatcatchers were noted during this survey (although it is unclear if they are pairs or individuals). One sighting was between the proposed bridge abutment and the sewer lie easement in Hidden Valley Road. The second sighting was approximately half way to El Camino Real. The first sighting listed here was noted again in 1989 during further studies for the sewer (see below). The other gnatcatcher sighting will be further assessed during Reach 2 biological studies. It was noted during the 1983 study that" the black-tailed gnatcatcher occurs in coastal sage scrub vegetation along the lagoon's perimeter and was detected at several localities on all sides of the lagoon". 1989: To supplement the 1983 Kelly Ranch EW additional CEQA analysis was conducted to include a proposed sewer line. The sewer line was proposed within the existing Hidden Valley Road. As part of this Supplemental EIR biological studies were conducted revealing three California gnatcatcher sightings in the vicinity (Figure 2). One was in the same approximate location as the 1983 study. Another sighting was located in the abandoned desiltation basin just north of the proposed eastern bridge abutment, and a third just north of the proposed bridge abutment. It is unclear from the reports if the sighting at the bridge abutment and the desilt basin were one pair or two separate pairs. Mitigation for impacts to these pairs was avoidance of construction during the nesting season (Mid-march to early August). West Side of Macario Canyon 1988: The EW for Reach 1 of Cannon Road included observations of California gnatcatchers on the west side of Macario Canyon (Figure 3). The pairs identified were not mapped nor were the numbers observed noted. The biological graphic depicts coastal sage scrub (2.4 acres) and southern mixed chaparral (3.1 acres) impacted by Reach 1. Impacts to these two habitats were considered significant but mitigable through revegetation of the manufactured slopes at a 1:1 ratio. 1993: The City of Carlsbad initiated focused surveys for the California gnatcatchers for Reach 1 of Cannon Road. Five pairs of California gnatcatchers were found in the survey area (Figure 4). One of the pairs was located on the east side of the bridge at the bride abutment (previously sighted in both 1989 and possibly 1983). It was noted by the field biologist that this pair existed during the 1992 and 1993 least Bell's vireo studies conducted for the Cannon Road bridge. The remaining four pairs were occupying sage scrub habitat on the slopes of several small drainages between Macario Canyon and the agricultural fields to the west. During this survey the biologists mapped a "use area" for each pair. This does not necessarily indicate the gnatcatcher's territory but was the area in which the bird was observed for a period of time. This would indicate that the use area is at least a part of the territory for that particular pair. Existing Conditions Based on the 1993 information gathered, a 1994 survey for California gnatcatchers was conducted. The survey's primary focus was to determine if the 1993 data was still accurate. The surveys focused on re-locating each pair that was previously identified. No attempt was made to map territory boundaries. After two site visits, each pair was relocated. The attached graphic depicts the location of each pair identified in relation to the 1993 information (figure 4). No additional pairs or individuals were located in the Cannon Road easement or within 100 feet Ms. Sherri Howard O March 27, 1995 Page 3 outside the proposed construction width. All pairs previously identified were relocated within proximity to the previous noted locations. Conclusion Biological studies conducted in and around the Cannon Road proposed easement have documented California gnatcatcher sightings. Recent documentation (1993) depict an approximate "use area" for each pair identified associated with Reach 1 of Cannon Road. Studies conducted in 1994 revealed that these birds are still present onsite and are within the same general area. Based on the 1993 maps, it appears that two potential territories would be impacted by the road alignment (territories 4 and 5) directly through the loss of a large portion of the use area, whereas the remainder will be slightly impacted with only a minimal loss of gnatcatcher habitat lost on the outer perimeter of the use area. The proposed road alignment will divide territories 2 and 4 to the north from 1 and 3 to the south. Habitat on this western ridge of Macario Canyon continues to wrap around on the lagoon side to the north. In addition, suitable gnatcatcher habitat, and known gnatcatcher territories, exist to the southeast. Any impact to a federally listed species or its habitat is considered significant and requires consultation with the USFWS. It is anticipated that this project may utilize the 4D process when consulting with the USFWS. This process allows for some take of habitat within the City of Carlsbad, as long as mitigation is consistent with the City's Habitat Management Plan. Although impacts to federally listed species habitat is considered significant, it is not anticipated that this project would result in a loss of individual birds. The proposed alignment of Cannon Road Reach 1, impacts only the very edges of the mapped "use areas". The road alignment tends to stay at a higher elevation than the documented gnatcatcher areas. In addition, the area is greatly disturbed through numerous SDG&E easements and access roads. It appears that the gnatcatcher use areas are currently separated by the existing access road alignments. Territory 5, on the east side of Macario Canyon would be bisected by the proposed road alignment. This may have an increased negative effect on this pair of birds. It could be anticipated that this pair may abandon the southern portion of this territory and try to increase to the north. If you have any questions or comments regarding the above information please do not hesitate to call me at 622-2275. Sincerely, Elyssa 1obertson Manager, Natural Resources Division attachments g_ L__.. a___ L._ L-_ I_. l__ L.... L.- L. 1-. L- L- s— i—. .. VEGETATION AND LAUD CiSC CATEGORIES SENSITIVE ORGANISM LOCATIONS e AF - Alluvial Fan ®. Adoiphia californici CU - Chaparral (nj- Beldings Savannah Sparrow Cu - Cultivated (tI- Ceanothus verrucosus 01 - Disturbed ?)- Black-tailed Gnat catcher -(unconflrwd sighting ) CA - Acids Grove ()- California Least Tern EX Excavated (H)- Red-tailed Hawk nest - ELI - Euc1yptus Grove ®- Light-footed Clapper Rail ;.. FA - Fallow Fields c- Least Bill's Vireo Fl Fill - fll - Freshwater Marsh DEVELOPMENT AREAS -• --'. CL. - Annual Grassland ZR - Irrigated Pasture - - - - KS - Karitir. Sage Scrub OR - Orchard OS - Open, sandy areas '-.-' FA RI - Pine Plantation .' RE - Residence -. RI - Riparian lSoodland ' P SM - Coastal Salt Marsh ,;/. ' FA IF - Tidal Flat RE FW R,I FA r RI •• / 'IuI In FW Sm Cu Cu •-•.'-:-:je • • : RI -. :M :•th1. • 5 .' I - FW PP .- C14 t - . . ..• - 4,4#,*, CU, F4 - at. - SM TF F $14 04 Alf TF os tu ® • G -ç S Cu - -. - •.CH. . SOURCE; SUPPLEMENTAL KELLY RANCH ST U O I E 8 , U L T R A 8 T E M 3 WE&EU&M Figure 1. 1983 Kelly Ranch Biological R s o u c e s KELLY RANCH Map City of Carlsbad MBA EXHIBIT in Aa PROPOSED - -- - __ ...... S_ -- I \\'\\\- - - - 1 V-21 -- - . .....--.-- N. ,- )z* DIEGAN COASTAL SAGE SCRUB / .55//l / ' T I SOUTHERN WILLOW SCRUB MULE FAT SCRUB COASTAL SALT MARSH / COASTAL AND VALLEY FRESHWATER MARSH NON—NATIVE GRASSLAND B CALIFORNIA BLACK—TAILED GNATCATCHER .. 0 200 .feet J i S BELDING S SAVANNA SPARROW (0) INDICATES NUMBER OF INDIVIDUALS W DOWNY WOODPECKER / . .,...-..... FIGURE 5. EXISTING VEGETATION AND LOCATIONS OF. SENSITIVE BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES RECØN R-2048E 8/89 . Figure 2 1989 Supplemental EIR, Cannon Road Sewer. Biological Resources S S 0 200 Proposed V N Pump 1statb01 I/- I - - :f .....-s -• -• , - ' '-?' .• -'-±. - --tj -...--- — — )(, ' a - -:-- -- - / - \ \< I 2 To I \ , .1 I. ."•' 5.-.'---.5- -. ,',... ... .\ . l... .•- - .'r . ..L_...____ . .. ... . •, . - .5.... / . /•. .. . . . -S.-. .. . - . - . . .41 .. -. S . . .- - p -I--?_ S. J. -. .. .. . • - /j _T-._...__.. -._ •-- . .:- . -j-- -. •.•- . - ,'.- . .•--- .. MIXED. CHAPARRAL COASTAL SAGE SCRUB WILLOW SCRUB/FRESHWATER IF MARSH M. COASTAL SALT MARSH 1-. - \ J J 1. " I. \ P-..., \ \\ flrVfle1r1rn.rrfl.J_L ' 3 - - COASTAL BRACKISH MARSH GRASSLAND - - - DISTURBED FIGURE 3. VEGETATION MAP ._- •. __________________________________ RECWN- R—i739 8 Figure 3 -. 1988 Cannon Road Reach 1 Vegetation - - Map. *: ---• ---: - Figure 1 0' 400' Cannon Road California _______ Gnatcatcher Survey Wi _____ Figure 4 1.993 California gnatcatcher information 1994 California gnatcatcher locations b [1 S it RECEIVED SEP 16 1994 TETRA TECH, INC. ENGINEERING 6405 Mira Mesa Blvd., Suite 100 DEPARTMENT San Diego, CA 92121 Telephone (619) 450-0365 FAX (619) 450-0626 September 9, 1994 Mr. Al Virgilio City of Carlsbad 2075 Las Palmas Drive Carlsbad CA 92009 Subject: Cannon Road Least Bell's Vireo Survey Results Dear Mr. Virgilio Tetra Tech has completed surveys for the least Bell's vireo in Macario Canyon, as part of the Cannon Road Bridge project. Ten surveys were conducted within the riparian habitat of Macario Canyon. This letter includes the methodology, results, and conclusions of the surveys for the 1994 least Bell's vireo season. - Introduction The least Bell's vireo (Vireo -belliipusillus) is a small gray migratory song bird which breeds and nests in Southern California. This species is a state and federally endangered species protected under both the U.S. and California Endangered Species Acts. The least Bell's vireo is limited to willOw woodlands for nesting and foraging Least Bell's vireo populations are most abundant within the large willow woodland habitats within the major drainages and rivers of San Diego County. Several populations are known to occur, however, outside of these river systems in smaller creeks and streams. The least Bell's vireo generally arrives in the San Diego region in mid to late March and migrates south into Baja California in late September. As part of the on-going planning and final design of the Cannon Road bridge project, the US Fish and Wildlife Service and US Army Corps of Engineers requires annual least Bell's vireo surveys. These surveys are required, not only within the proposed impact zone of the bridge, but also within the adjacent willow woodland. Survey Methodology The project site consists of both the proposed bridge footprint, construction corridor and the entire willow woodland habitat within Macario Canyon.. Surveys were conducted by Mr. Adam Welchel on the following dates May 18, 1994 June 24, 1994 May 25, 1994 July 14, 1994 June 2, 1994 July 21, 1994 June 9, 1994 July 29, 1994 June 16, 1994 August 4, 1994 S Surveys for each date above commenced at approximately 0700 hours and were completed by 1030 hours and the entire area was survyed on each date. Weather conditions of light fog and mist in the early morning giving way to sunny skies by the end of the observation period, were consistent throughout the survey period. Wind remained minimal and ambient noise conditions included local air traffic and infrequent use of the police shooting range. The area surveyed included all riparian habitat from the end of existing Faraday Street to the edge of the interior portion of Agua Hedionda Lagoon. Birds were identified through direct observations and vocalizations. No taped vocalizations were utilized during this survey. Results No least Bell's vireos were observed or heard onsite. Numerous bird species common to high quality riparian woodland habitats were observed. A complete list of bird species observed is included as an attachment to this letter. The riparian habitat within Macario Canyon is considered a high quality habitat based on plant species composition, diversity, and canopy strata. In addition, the bird species observed onsite are indicative of high quality woodland such as yellow warbler, yellow-breasted chat, and blue grosbeak. These species are typically found in the same habitat as least Bell's vireo, although the occurrence of one does not indicate the presence of least Bell's vireo. In addition to typical riparian bird species, cowbirds continue to inhabit the area. The cowbird has been observed within this habitat during past surveys and is known to be a critical contributor to the overall decline of least Bell's vireo population regionwide. The surveys conducted were adequate to determine that least Bell's vireo did not nest within Macario Canyon habitat during the 1994 breeding season. The on-going presence of cowbirds, a brood parasitic bird species, may preclude the use of this area by the least Bell's vireo for successful nesting. If you have any questions or comments regarding the results of this least Bell's vireo survey, please do not hesitate to call. Sincerely, Elyssa K. Robertson Principal Biologist ATTACHMENT The following is a list of bird species observed in riparian habitat of Macario Canyon for the Cannon Road Extension Project (Reach 1) during Spring 1994 surveys. Black Phoebe Black-shouldered Kite Blue Grosbeak Brown Towhee Brown-headed Cowbird Bushtits California Quail Cliff Swallow Common Yellowthroat Flycatcher sps. Gilded Flicker House Finch Marsh Wren Mockingbird Mourning Dove Red-Tailed Hawk Red-winged Blackbird Rufous-sided Towhee Scrub Jay Song Sparrow Virginia Rail Yellow Breasted Chat Yellow Warbler Sayornis nigri cans Elanus caeruleus Guiraca caerulea Pipilo fuscus Molothrus ater Psaltriparus ininimus Callipepla calfornica Hirundo pyrrhonota Geothlypis trichas Empidonax sp Colaptes auratus Carpodacus rnexicanus Cistothorus palustris Mimus polyglottos Zenaida macroura Buteo jamaicensis Agelaius phoeniceus Pipilo erythrophthalmus Aphelocoina coerulescens Melospizia melodia Rallus liinicola Icteria virens Dendroica petechia