HomeMy WebLinkAbout3821; LAKE CALAVERA REMEDIAL/ MITIGATION PROJECT; HABITAT REVEG, MAINT & MONITORING; 2006-10-26FINAL
Habitat Revegetation, Maintenance & Monitoring 1rograrn
0 Calavera Dam Remedial Improvements Project
Carlsbad, California
October 26, 2006
Prepared for
City of Carlsbad
Public Works! Engineering Department
V - 1635 Faraday Avenue
Carlsbad, California
0
•
V •
V Prepared by:
V ' V 0 • V V • PLANNING SYSTEMS
1530 Faraday Avenue
Suite 100
Carlsbad, CA 92008
PSLANNThLGI Iu
FINAL
Habitat Revegetation, Maintenance & Monitoring Program
Calavera Dam Remedial Improvements Project
Carlsbad, California
October 26, 2006
Table of Contents
1.0 Introduction Page 1
Figure 1 - Location Map Page 5
Figure 2 - Project Impacts Map Page 6
Figure 3 - Revegetation Plan (Wetland and Upland Restoration) Page 7
Figure 4 - Coastal Sage Scrub Creation Plan Page 8
Figure 5 - Barrier/Silt Fencing Plan Page 9
2.0 Coastal Sage Scrub Creation and Upland Restoration Page 10
3.0 Wetland Creation Page 16
4.0 Wetland Enhancement Page 22
5.0 Installation Specifications Page 25
6.0 Maintenance Plan Page 28
7.0 Monitoring Plan Page 32
8.0 References Page 40
PLANNING SYSTEMS #031240
LAND USE/ COASTAL PLANNING PLANNING tANDSAE A1CH1TECTUR
SYSTEMS 'POLICY AND PROCESSING
ENVIRONMENTALM1TIGATJON
I530FARADAY AVENUE .. SUITE 100 • CARLSIIAD,CA 92008 (760) 931-0780 .;FAX (760) 931-5744
I FINAL
I . Habitat Revegetation, Maintenance and Monitoring Program
For the Calavera Dam Remedial Improvements Project
Carlsbad, California
October 16, 2006
I -Draft 5 is provided to describe the work necessary to create coastal sage scrub mitigation on
City property at Lake Calavera, and to adjust the cut-slope erosion control seed mix as per
environmental resource agency request.
I 1.0 Introduction
I Currently, the Lake Calavera outlet works are inoperable and are in need of remedial improvements
to restore the operational capacity of the facility. This reservoir (Calavera Dam #1023-002) is under
the jurisdiction of the Department of Water Resources - California Division of Safety of Dams
I (DSOD) for safety as provided in Division 3 of the Water Code. To ensure safety of the reservoir,
and to restore compliance with DSOD requirements, it is necessary to return operations to the dam.
The proposed project restores function of, and DSOD compliance for, the reservoir by replacing the
I outlet tower with a pipeline, including valves, along the interior face of the dam. The new pipeline
will control reservoir levels with the attached valves. Additionally, the construction project will
include spillway apron and channel repairs, and access road upgrade, and the construction of a new
I controller building near the dam
When operational, the reservoir surface will be maintained at an elevation of approximately 208 ft.
I amsl with an operational range from 214 to 194 ft. amsi. Constructed in 1942, the Calavera Dam
stored drinking water until 1957. At present, the primary function of the reservoir is storm water
retention. In maintaining an annual median water surface elevation of approximately 208 ft. amsi it
I will be necessary to accumulate and/or drawdown the reservoir capacity in response to anticipated
rainfall events. Once a natural flow regime is restored, the water surface elevation will return
approximately to the median level.
I Biological investigations and reports have been prepared in conjunction with CEQA review of the
project. A Notice of Intention to Adopt a Mitigated Negative Declaration (IvIND) was prepared and
approved by the City of Carlsbad. This Habitat Restoration, Maintenance, and Monitoring Program
I is provided in compliance with the mitigation measures adopted in conjunction with the approved
CEQA documents.
1.1 Project Related Impacts
A Biological Resources Report (BRR) of the Calavera Dam study area by Merkel & Associates
in 2002 determined that both permanent and temporary impacts to sensitive biological resources
were anticipated by the project. Subsequently, a draft of this mitigation program was crafted,
and distributed for agency review and public comment. As a consequence of review and
comment, the construction approach to the project has substantially changed from the draft
mitigation program circulated. The new facilities will be constructed using a "lift in" coffer dam
construction technique that does not require drawdown of lake water to accomplish the work.
This method differs from a conventional coffer dam technique such that it eliminates the need for
Calavera Dam Habitat Revegetation, Maintenance, and Monitoring Program, 10/26/06 1
driving long piles into the dam face. Because lake water drawdown is not necessary, project
related impacts are significantly reduced from previous project estimates. As of the most recent
biological investigations, project related impacts and mitigation measures have been reassessed,
and are described in Tables 1 and 2 below (source: M&A report).
Table 1 - Coastal Sage Scrub Impacts and Proposed Mitigation Measures
Habitat Per,nanent Permanent Permanent Temporary Temp. Temp. Total
Type Impacts Impacts. Impacts Impacts Impacts Impacts Required
Ratio Mitigation ___________ Ratio Mitigation Mitigation
Diegan 0.52 2:1 1.04 0.17 1:1 0.17 1.21
Coastal
Sage Scrub
TOTAL 0.52 1.04 0.17 0.17 j1.21
Table 2— ACOE Section 404 Mitigation (Wetland Impacts and Proposed Mithation'
Habitat Permanent Permanent Permanent Temporary Temp. Temp. Total
Type Impacts Impacts Impacts Impacts Impacts Impacts Required
Ratio Mitigation Ratio Mitigation Mitigation
Freshwater 0.06 1:1 0.06 0.06
Marsh
Non- 0.40 2:1 0.80 0.01 1:1 0.01 0.81.
wetland
Waters
TOTAL 0.40 0.801 0.07 . 0.07 0.87
1.1.1 Permanent and Temporary CSS Impacts
Permanent project related impacts totaling 0.52 acre will occur to Coastal California gnatcatcher
"occupied" coastal sage scrub. These impacts will occur due to control building construction and
spillway apron and channel improvements.
I Temporary project related impacts totaling 0.17 acre will occur to coastal sage scrub will due to
service road and outlet box construction. Once installation is complete, impacted areas will be
returned to their original grade, and CSS habitat will be restored.
1. 1.2 Permanent and Temporary Wetland Impacts
Permanent project related impacts will occur only to non-wetland waters. These impacts will
I . occur due to construction of the spillway apron and the spillway channel. The combined
permanent wetland impacts for the project total 0.40 acres. All of this impact is within a man-7
I
made drainage structure.
Temporary project related impacts will occur to 0.06 acre of freshwater marsh and 0.01 acre of
non-wetland waters of the U.S. as a result of project construction. Once project work is complete,
temporarily impacted areas will be returned to their original grade and restored to natural habitat.
1.2 Project Mitigation - Creation and Restoration
I The project mitigation requirement has been determined by applying mitigation ratio formulas
described in the Carlsbad Habitat Management Plan (HMP) in consultation with environmental
resource agencies. The goal of this program is to specify improvements that restore temporarily
Calavera Dam Habitat Revegetation, Maintenance, and Monitoring Program, 10/26/06 2
impacted habitats, and to create new habitats where permanent impacts occur. The proposed
revegetation shall be "in kind" mitigation modeled after the non-disturbed communities presently
existing in the study area (Figure 2). The schedule for meeting this goal is between three to ten
years. Project created and restored plant communities are required to achieve growth that falls
within performance standards proposed by this plan. Once the created community meets these
performance standards, a request will be made to the lead permitting agency to conduct final
performance monitoring of revegetated areas, to establish that the permitte has satisfied his
permit obligation.
1.2.1 Mitigation for Permanent and Temporary Coastal Sage Scrub Imnacts
- Mitigation for permanent impacts to 0.52 acre of "occupied" CSS will be accomplished by
"creation" of 1.04 acre of CSS on disturbed lands located on City property south of Lake
Calavera. The installation will be established without the use of supplemental irrigation.
Mitigation for temporary impacts to 0.17 acre of "occupied" CSS will be accomplished by
I restoring 0.17 acre of CSS restoration to areas disturbed during outlet box construction. The
restoration will be accomplished without the use of supplemental irrigation.
I
1.2.2 Mitigation for Permanent and Temporary Wetland Impacts
Mitigation for both permanent and temporary impacts will be achieved through on-site creation
I
. and enhancement of wetland habitat in the near lake vicinity of the project. The project will
create a total of 0.87 acre of wetland habitat.
By agreement, the habitat to be created is not restricted to "in kind" creation. A selection of
I species typically associated with the three habitat types impacted will be installed and allowed to
compete naturally for dominance. Provided that 0.87 acre is created and enhanced by species
typically associated with "wetlands", the project will have met its mitigation obligation.
I 1.3 Environmental Setting
I Lake Calavera is located in northeastern Carlsbad, on the southeastern portion of USGS 1.5 San Luis
Rey Quadrangle (Figures 1). Open space lands of the City of Carlsbad occur to the northeast,
residential housing occurs to the northwest, Robertson Ranch open space occurs to the southwest,
and the Calavera Nature Preserve occurs to the southeast. Lake Calavera is fed by an unnamed
I tributary to Agua Hedionda Creek, locally known as Calavera Creek.
Lake Calavera was created in 1940 to serve as a reservoir for drinking water. In recent years the
reservoir has been used as a water storage facility to retain runoff, and to reduce downstream
flooding. Figure 1 - Location Map. Presently, Lake Calavera is maintained at a constant
elevation because mechanisms to control reservoir elevation have become inoperable. Thus, the
surface water elevation within the reservoir has been relatively constant, (being controlled by the
open valve, the Water elevation drops in the summer and increases in the rainy season),
encouraging somewhat permanent plant community locations in recent years.
As a result of the inoperable nature of the outflow valves, the existing dam facilities are not in
compliance with the requirements of the Division of Safety of Dams (a division of the California
I Dept. of Water Resources). DSOD emergency regulations dictate that dam managers shall have
the ability to draw-down by gravity at least 50% of the volume of the reservoir water within
seven (7) days. While the Calavera Dam does not presently have this ability, implementation of
I
Calavera Dam Habitat Revegetation, Maintenance, and Monitoring Program, 10/26/06 3
the proposed improvements would allow function and control of the dam such that it would
comply with the requirement.
The project study area defined in the BRR is comprised of Lake Calavera, and adjacent riparian
and upland habitats. Over 25 acres of wetland plant communities are supported by the present
reservoir hydrological scheme (Figure 2). Upland habitats in the study area include Coast live
oak riparian forest, native chaparral and scrub communities as well as disturbed uplands such as
non-native grassland, disturbed lands, and urban/developed. Within the study area humans have
impacted upland habitats, and to. a lesser.extent riparian habitats by: recreational uses, by littering,
and by assisting in the dispersal of invasive plants.
Cal avera Dam Habitat Revegetation, Maintenance, and Monitoring Program, 10/26/06 . . 4
1
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I Figure 1
Location',m-
LAKE , CALAVERA REMEDIAL IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT
Ccirlsbad. California
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10/26/06
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liii u/t/iyilt///llill HLII\\\\'
MAPPING NOTE:
MAPPING BY PLANNING SYSTEMS, INTERPRETED FROM tAXE CALAVERA BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES MAP. MERIEL &
ASSOCIATES, MAY I, 2003.
Ci ppRo.mCfI\L.AXE dALAVERA\CAL DAP BXIØII' COND 101204,DWc
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Figure
( / 1 EXISTING HABITAT TYPES
I Cis montane Alkali Marsh
I I Coyote Bush Scrub
Diegan Coastal Sage Scrub
)
Disturbed Land
Diegan Coastal Sage Scrub-Revegetation
( L........J1 Non-native Vegetation (Exotic)
Coastal and Valley Freshwater Marsh
j Southern Mixed Chaparral
I Mule Fat Scrub
I Non-native Grassland
I I Coast Live Oak Riparian Forest
I Open Water
I I Coastal Sage-Chaparral Scrub
Southern Willow Scrub
Urban/Developed
Valley Needlegrass Grassland
.'
Imoacts
I000CI Permanent Impacts
I Temporary Impacts
Prciec,.t Tmnat
Habitat Type Permanent Permanent Permanent Temporary Temp. Temp. Total
Impacts Impacts Impacts Impacts Impacts impacts Required
Ratio Mitigation Ratio Mitigation Mitigation
Freshwater 0.06 1:1 0.06 0.06
Marsh
Non-wetland 0.40 2:1 0.80 0.01 1:1 0.01 0.81
Waters
Coastal Sage 0.52 2:1 1.04* 0.17 1:1 0.17 1.21
Scrub
TOTAL 0.92 1.84 0.24 0.24 2.08
To be mitigated for through purchase of credits in an approved mitigation bank.
PS#031240 October 26, 2006 Project Impacts 0 150 O 600 FT
Lake Calavera Remedial Improvements Project J) I I
Carlsbad, California . NORTH SCALE: -1' = 300
DO
iI
20ftJ
___
PROPOSED REVEGETATION
Wetland Creation
IlIllIllIllIHIl Cut-slope restored with
native seed mix
[•:•:•: Wetland Enhancement
IN
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'4 WW•UII &!W'
F',
): M c A 4
EXISTING HABITAT TYPES
I I Cis-montane Alkali-Marsh
I Diegan Coastal Sage Scrub
I Disturbed Land
I 1 Non-native Vegetation (Exotic)
I ] Coastal and Valley Freshwater Marsh
Southern Mixed Chaparral
I Mule Fat Scrub
I Non-native Grassland
I' I Coast Live Oak Riparian Forest
I 1 Open Water
I Southern Willow Scrub
I I Urban/Developed
PLAN NOTE
THIS PLAN ESTIMATES PLOT LOCATIONS AND SIZES FOR RE VEGETATION
OF WETLANDS AND UPLANDS AS REQUIRED OF THE LAKE CALA VERA
REMEDIAL IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT. THE AS-BUILT PLOT LOCATIONS,
SIZES AND CONFIGURATIONS WILL BE MAPPED AND DISTRIBUTED TO
RESOURCES AGENCIES IN THE POST-INSTALLLATION REPORT.
SURVEY NOTE:
FIELD SURVEYED ON AUGUST 26, 2004, AND AGAIN ON
FEBRUARY 20, 2006 FOR RE VEGETATION OPPORTUNITIES.
MAPPING BY PLANNING SYSTEMS, INTERPRETED FROM
LAKE CALA VERA BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES MAP', MERKEL
& ASSOCIATES, MAY 1,2003.'
PS#031240 October 26,2006
0 100 200 400 FT
NORTH SCALE: - 1 = 200'
Plot
1 2 3 4 5 6 acres
0.09
0.04
0.17
0.05
0.08
0.04
0.05
0.03
0.08
0.04
0.40
0.47
0.20
0.40
acres 0.13 1 0.22 10.12 I 0.08 1 0.12 1 0.40 1 1.0fl
AA P
Wetland Revegetation Plan
Lake Calavera Remedial Improvements Project
Carlsbad, California
F1gure3
-
L -
g .s. -••\ 'i t
:• T4.: J2•;'
FIgure4
Plot
7 1 8 9 10 acres
— 0.88 0.16 1.04
0.17
0.01 _
—0.17
0.01
PROPOSED REV EGETATION
I I CSS Creation for Permanent Impacts
I I CSS Restoration for Temp. Impacts
I i Marsh Restoration for Temp. Impacts
racres 1 0.01 1 0.17 1 0.881 0.16 1 1.22
;c' •,;._1( J I. EGEND
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CALAVERA HEIGHTS PIot9O88ac
.1 lMmGAT1ON SITE
• CARLSBAD HIGHLANDS1
MITIGATION BANK 81-
CSS Ro'evegetati on Plan
Lake Calavera Remedial Improvements Project
Carlsbad, California
P8#031240 October 26, 2006
rn 0 200 400 800 FT
L18DI
NORTH SCALE: - 1 ' = 400'
BARRIER / SILT FENCING
BARRIER FENCING SHALL BE USED TO DISCOURAGE PEDESTRIAN ACCESS TO REYEGETA11ON SITES.
6X6"X6 WELDED WIRE MESH FENCING A1TACHED 'TO 4')(4" POSTS WILL BE PLACED ACROSS ANY TRAIL
TO BE EXCLUDED FROM PUBLIC USE. BARRIER FENCING WILL ALSO EXTEND ALONG THE SIDES OF TRAILS
AS NECESSARY TO DISCOURAGE UNDESIRED ACCESS. SILT FENCING CAN ALSO BE USED IN COMBINATION
WITH BARRIER FENCING' TO CONTROL EROSION AS DIRECTED BY THE RESTORATION ECOLOGIST.
TO CONTROL EROSION WHEN BARRIER PROTECTION IS NOT NECESSARY, SILT FENCING MAY BE INSTALLED
USING I 'X2 STAKES, SPACED 4 FT. O.C.
TO MARK A CONSTRUCTION AREA WHEN A PEDESTRIAN BARRIER IS NOT NECESSARY, 4 Fr. TALL ORANGE'
CONSTRUCTION FENCING MAY BE INSTALLED USING 1"X2" STAKES AT 4 FT. O.C.
1. SET POSTS AND EXCAVATE A
4 BY IN (10 BY 10 CM)
TRENCH UPSLOPE FROM AND,
ALONG THE LINE OF POSTS.
2. STAPLE 6X6 WWM FENCING TO
THE POSTS.
3. ATTACH THE SILT FENCING TO
THE WIRE FENCE AND EXTEND IT
INTO THE TRENCH.
4. BACKFILL AND COMPACT THE
EXCAVATED SOIL.,
Figure 5 ' L - II
1O ?&RDAY £VW WIT ICC. CACCB&A CA u200C (710) CC1-0710 VAX (700) 0-6?44 Barrier / Silt Fencing
LAKE CALAVERA REMEDIAL IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT 10/26/OS Carlsbad, California PS NO. 031240
I 2.0 Coastal Sage Scrub Creation and Upland Restoration
I All project related impacts to upland habitats occur to coastal sage scrub. The project will
impact CSS both. permanently and temporarily. Permanent impacts will be mitigated for through
the creation of new CSS habitat in the study area. Temporary impacts will be mitigated for
I through the restoration of CSS at the construction site where the impacts are proposed to occur,
once construction is complete (see figure 4 for CSS mitigation sites).
I The proposed mitigation site to create new CSS is an unauthorized trail complex located several
hundred yards southeast of Lake Calavera. New CSS habitat will be established via non-irrigated
hydroseed on the unauthorized trail system. Trails areas where CSS creation is to occur
I
.presently support highly disturbed land. Fencing, erosion 'control devices, and signage will be
installed to encourage- conditions necessary to establish new habitat. Section 2.1 fully describes
the proposed CSS creation work.
I CSS restoration will occur at locations where CSS was temporarily impacted during outlet box
construction along Calavera Creek. Any grades modified to implement the construction work
will be returned to their pre-construction grade. Habitat will be restored using containers and
I hydroseed of species presently existing on the site. No supplemental irrigation will be used to
establish the restored CSS. Some temporarily impacted species are wetland species supported on
moisture discharged from the primary outfall channel of the dam. The project proposes to restore
I areas previously occupied by wetland vegetation with a combination of impacted wetland species
and CSS species. Native species will be allowed to compete for dominance. Fencing, erosion
control devices and signage will be installed if determined to be necessary by the restoration
I
ecologist. Section 2.2 fully describes the proposed CSS restoration work.
Planting palettes and seed mixes shall be composed of species locally obtained, listed by species,
size, and number/acre. The upland plant palette proposed shall include native species
I . specifically associated with the habitat type(s). Only locally native species (no cultivars)
obtained within North Coastal San Diego County shall be used. The source and proof of local
nativeness of all plant material and seed shall be provided.
2.1 Coastal Sage Scrub Creation
I Creation as applied to this document means the installation of a new plain community where bare
ground presently exists. CSS creation will be accomplished via hydroseed on disturbed lands
occurring on City-owned property south of Lake Calavera (see Figure 4). The creation site is an
I unauthorized trail system tht has been highly disturbed by unauthorized bike uses. Landforms
of the creation site have been significantly damaged by erosive processes and artificially created
mounding. Most or all of the topsoil of the mitigation plots has been lost. The creation sites
must first be re-contoured to repair significant landlorm damage prior to soil preparation and
I hydroseeding.
Landform re-contouring should be timed to occur after seasonal rains have moistened soils. If
I grading occurs when soils are dry, inadequate site preparation may result, adversely affecting
seed establishment, if directed by the restoration ecologist, temporary erosion control devices
may be utilized during the installation process. If winter rains are delayed
I
beyond January 15,
grading work will begin even if soils are dry, so that seeding has occurred no later than February
1.
Calavera Dam Habitat Revegetation, Maintenance, and Monitoring Program, 10/26/06 10
CSS habitat Creation will involve the following activities:
I
i) Soil testing
Remedial Grading and Site preparation
Imprinting and/or Hydroseeding
I
4) Fencing, Erosion Control,' and Signage
2.1.1 CSS Creation Soil Sampling and Analysis
Soil samples will be taken to evaluate soil fertility and structure. The amendments recommended
by the soil lab will be incorporated into creation site soils.
2.1.2 CSS Creation Remedial Grading and Site Prenaration
Creation plots will be clearly identified and walked by the restoration ecologist and the
- contractor prior to initiation of work. All plot areas will be graded using mechanized equipment
and/or hand work to return the disturbed lands to a stable condition. The object of grading will
be to fill eroded channels and rills, to remove artificially created landforms, and to create a
gentler, more stable landlorm condition. Once necessary grading has been accomplished, the
surface will be ripped where possible with a small track loader to a minimum depth of 6". In
places where ripping is not possible, hand work will used to break up surface soils.
Once initial the surface has been adequately ripped / cultivated, amendments shall be added per
soil lab recommendation. All areas to be seeded will be left in a rough condition suitable for
seed to establish.
2.1.3 CSS Creation Imprinting and/or Hydroseeding
Planting will be accomplished via imprinting machine or hydroseed. A seed imprinting process
will be used if the restoration ecologist and contractor determine that it is feasible to utilize the
imprinting machine on at least one-half of the creation site. If imprinting is not possible,
hydroseed will be applied.
Table 3— CSS Creation Target Composition
scientific name common name % vegetated
at 5 yrs
Salvia melifera Black sage
Hazardia squarrosa Sawtooth goldenbush
Helianthemum scoparium Peak rush-rose 30%
Nassella lepida Foothill needlegrass
Artemesia californica Coast sagebrush
Deinandra fasciculata Fascicled Tarweed
Eriogonum fasciculatum Coast California buckwheat
Isocoma menziesii Spreading Goldenbush 30%
Lotus scoparius Coastal Deerweed
Mimulus aurantiacus Monkey flower
Nassella pulchra Purple needlegrass
TOTAL required to install 1.04 acre =30 lbs. target seed 60%
Calavera Dam Habitat Revegetation, Maintenance, and Monitoring Program, 10/26/06 11
Table 4- Mix A: CSS Creation Seed Mix
% Pur/Germ lbs/acre scientific name common name
15 60 2 Artemesia californica Coastal sagebrush
20 80 2 Deinandra fasciculata Fascicled Tarweed
50 20 6 Eriogonum fasciculatum Coast California buckwheat
15 30 3 Hazardia squarrosa Sawtooth goldenbush
98 80 1 Helianthemum scoparium Peak rush-rose
40 30 2 Isocoma menziesii Spreading Goldenbush
90 60 3 Lotus scoparius COastal Deerweed
5 70 2 Mimulus aurantiacus Mohkey flower
70 60 1 Nassella lepida Foothill needlegrass
70 60 2 Nassella pulchra Purple needlegrass
85 50 3 Salvia mellifera Black sage
98 75 20 Plantago insularis Plantago
47.0 Total pounds per acre
- 2.1.5 CSS Creation Fencing, Erosion Control, and Signae
I The CSS creation plots are presently used for unauthorized activities that are damaging existing
vegetation. To discourage continuance of these unauthorized uses, barrier fencing will be
installed at locations where plot access is most likely. Barrier fencing will be installed at each
I location where an existing trail intersects a creation plot, and for the first fifty feet along the
sides of the plot. Fencing material will be sturdy, constructed of 4"x4" posts and 4 foot tall
6"x6"x6" welded wire mesh fencing (see Figure 5). Given the remote location of the creation
I plots, it will not be easy to discourage people who persist in using the plots for unauthorized
activity. However, installing this sturdy barrier is likely to discourage most users. Regular
monitoring of the creation plots during the early establishment period will provide the monitor
I
the opportunity to recommend fencing repairs as necessary. If it is determined that additional
measures will be required to secure the creation plots, the monitor may make recommendations
to the City and resources agencies via annual reports.
I Extensive use of erosion control devices is anticipated. Straw waddles should be liberally
applied on all moderately to steeply sloping areas at a rate of at least one per 40 linear feet of
trail. Secure waddles by a method least likely to injure users if they were to trip over or fall onto
I the waddle. Silt fencing should also be applied where any threat of erosion is particularly high.
Construction fencing (4 feet tall) shall be installed at all points of entry and continue at least 40
feet along the sides of trails nearest points of entry. Secure fencing with a strong, 6-foot long T-
I post. Signage describing the mitigation work shall be installed on T-Posts at all points of entry.
Signage shall be installed at likely trail access points to discourage creation plot encroachment.
Signage shall provide language such as: "TRAIL CLOSED for Sensitive Habitat Restoration
per" (followed by permit numbers and a City contact telephone number).
It is likely that erosion will continue to be a problem during plant establishment, due to either the
I steeply sloping terrain, or to continued unauthorized bike use of the creation site. Both the
restoration ecologist and contractor should make recommendations at the first sign that erosion
problems are occurring, and not wait until small problems become big ones.
I
Calavera Dam Habitat Revegetation, Maintenance, and Monitoring Program, 10/26/06 12
2.1.6 Community Outreach
If the monitor determines that community outreach is necessary to reduce damage to revegetation
plots, he may recommend that the City engage the public. Recommended activities may include
but not be limited to 1) posting literature at areas where damage is repeatedly occurring, 2)
mailing informational literature to homes nearby to encourage a change in destructive behavior,
3) conducting informational sessions with nearby residents.
2.2 Coastal Sage Scrub Restoration
Restoration as applied to this document means re-establishing native habitats that occupied the
site before construction (see Figure 4). Restoration work to be accomplished is similar to
creation of new habitat, but is discussed separately here to fully describe the work anticipated.
Restoration will involve the following activities:
Site Preparation
Grading
Fencing, Erosion Control, and Signage
Soil Sampling and Analysis
Plant Installation
Hand Seeding
2.2.1 CSS Restoration Site Preparation
Prior to initiation of outlet box project impacts, fencing and erosion control devices will be
I . installed at the perimeter of the construction area. Brushing will then occur along the access
road to the outlet box construction site. Grubbing of the access road shall be avoided to the.
maximum extent possible. The outlet box construction area will then be brushed and grubbed as
I necessary to clear the construction. Once all outlet box construction is complete, construction
debris and spoils will be completely removed from the construction site.
I 2.2.2 CSS Restoration Site Grading
All temporarily impacted areas shall be returned to pre-construction finish elevations, especially
I
any potions of the channel bottom that have been impacted. All portions of the site that have
been subjected to compaction by vehicular equipment must be ripped or tilled prior to restoration
planting.
I 2.2.3 CSS Restoration Fencing, Erosion Control, and Signage
Environmental fencing installed prior to initiation of work shall be repaired if damaged. Silt
I . fencing shall also be installed if necessary to insure that soil remains confined to the restoration
plot. Additional erosion control devices may be necessary as determined by the restoration
ecologist.
I Signage shall be installed at likely access points to discourage restoration area encroachment.
Signage shall provide language such: "DO NOT ENTER, Native Plant Restoration Area"
(followed by permit numbers and a City contact telephone number.
I
Calavera Dam Habitat Revegetation, Maintenance, and Monitoring Program, 10/26/06 13
2.2.4 CSS Restoration Soil Sampling and Analysis
The restoration ecologist shall communicate with the construction supervisor of the project to
determine if the restoration site was polluted during construction activities. He shall also inspect
the site to determine if construction debris (concrete, oils spills, etc.) appears to be mixed in with
restoration soils. If the restoration ecologist is certain that plot soils are substantially clean and
devoid of pollutants, the planting can commence without the need to sample plot soils. if,
however, soil pollution is known or expected, soil testing shall occur, and testing lab
recommendations shall be implemented.
2.2.5 CSS Restoration Plant Installation
A combination of container planting, and seeding are proposed to provide the breath of species
representative of the habitat to be created. Species and planting rates are selected based upon
research, and experience with these habitats locally. All species to be utilized occur local to the
restoration site, with the exception of the non-native cover crops used for erosion control during
the establishment period. Because this installation will not use an automatic irrigation system,
plant quantities are more densely specified than an irrigated installation to account for
anticipated losses. The restoration ecologist shall evaluate establishment failures of plants and
seed, and determine the appropriate remedial actions.
Table 5— CSS Restoration Target Composition
scientific name common name percent containers! # of containers!
seed/ac seed per 0.182 ac.
Artemesia californica Coast sagebrush 30% 200, seed (36) 1 gal, seed
Baccharis pilularis Coyote brush 20% 130, seed (24) 1 gal, seed
Baccharis salicifolia Mulefat 7% 50 (10) 1 gal
Eriogonum fasciculatum Flat-top buckwheat 7% 50, seed (10) 1 gal, seed
Salvia melifera Black sage 7% 50, seed (10) 1 gal, seed
Leymus condensatus Giant wild rye 7% seed seed
Salix lasiolepis Arroyo willow 7% 50 (10) 1 gal
Isocoma menziesii Goldenbush 5% seed seed
Malosma laurina Laurel sumac 5% 30 (10) 1 gal
Rhus integrifolia I Lemonadeberry 5% 15 (5) 1 gal
TOTAL required to install 0.182 acre 100% 615 1 gal (115) igal
1. 24 lbs. seed 1 4.4 lbs. seed
Table 6 - Mix B: CSS Restoration Seed Mix
% Pur/Germ lbs/acre scientific name common name
15 60 4 Artemesia californica Coast sagebrush
2 40 2 Baccharis pilularis Coyote brush
50 20 4 Eriogonum fasciculatum Flat-top buckwheat
40 30 3 Isocoma menziesii Goldenbush
70 80 2 Leymus condensatus Giant wild rye
90 60 3 Lotus scoparius Deerweed
70 60 3 Nassella pulchra Purple needlegrass
85 50 3 Salvia melifera Black sage
98 75 20 Plantago insularis Plantago
44.0 Total pounds per acre
Cal avera Darn Habitat Revegetation, Maintenance, and Monitoring Program, 10/26/06 14
2.2.6 CSS Restoration Hand Seedin
After container installation has occurred, hand seed all areas with exposed soil in the
construction area. Install jute over any areas that maybe subject to potential erosion. if directed
by the restoration ecologist, top dress the seed with an organic topper.
All seed utilized by this project must be obtained from north coastal San Diego County, an area
from the Orange County line south to Sorrento Valley, and eastward to 1-15. if seed is not
available from a supplier, it must be collected from within the target collection area. The
installation contractor shall verify seed availability to the City within two weeks of being
awarded the installation contract by the City. If seed of any required species is not readily
available, the contractor must immediately initiate arrangements to procure all required seed.
I All seed shall be delivered to the project site in a sealed container. The seed shall be labeled
according to state and federal laws. The Sealed container shall bear the seed supplier's tags
I which shall indicate the container weight, seed type (genus and species), seed purity %, seed
germination %, date seed tested, and place of collection. The restoration ecologist must be
notified no less than 24 hours in advance of seeding to observe seed container opening process,
and the beginning of seed dispersal.
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Calavera Dam Habitat Revegetation, Maintenance, and Monitoring Program, 10/26/06 15
3.0 Wetland Creation
The project proposes to create 0.47 acre of wetland habitat on sites now occupied by non-native
grassland (see Plots 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 on Figure 3). Five revegetation plots have been chosen for
wetland habitat creation because they are situated next to existing wetland habitat, and can be
graded low enough to allow establishing revegetation access to lake-fed ground water.
Revegetation sites will be re-graded to elevations that are anticipated to support key species
associated with the three wetland habitats common to Lake Calavera, freshwater marsh, southern
willow scrub, and mulefat scrub. However; once installed, the species revegetated will be
allowed to naturally compete for dominance. The project will have satisfied its mitigation
requirement provided that wetland habitat of some kind is created within the plots.
A by-product of making new revegetation plots from disturbed upland areas is that new slopes
created that must be re-planted. These slopes will be restored with a native seed mix.
3.1 Anticipated Hydrology of the Wetland Revegetation Plots
The work proposed at Calavera Dam will allow the reservoir to function once again as a flood
control facility. In general, standard water management practice at a flood control facility is to
lower the surface elevation at the beginning of the rainy season to accommodate storm events.
During the rainy season the water level will rise due to entering runoff, and water levels will fall
during the dry season due to evaporation. Successful implementation of the proposed mitigation
measures requires an appreciation of the role this post-construction hydraulic regime will play in
sustaining existing and proposed plant communities. Given that reservoir surface elevations will
once again fluctuate, it is anticipated that habitat boundaries will recede and advance in step with
lake hydrology. Periodic movement in near-shore plant community boundaries is likely to occur
as long as reservoir elevations are artificially manipulated.
Both prolonged inundation and a lack of moisture can convert wetland habitats. Prior to project
implementation, the dynamics of revegetation plot hydrology is at best a guess. It is known that
post-construction reservoir surface elevations could fluctuate between 194 to 214 feet MSL, a
range of twenty feet. Storm water runoff flowing near the proposed wetland creation plots may
assist in hydrologically supporting the proposed plantings, but it is clear that lake water
availability will be the most important determining factor in successful revegetation
establishment. To minimize lack of moisture as a cause for revegetation failure, revegetation
plot elevations will be excavated to a low point elevation near the perennial water table. In
concept, wetland revegetation plot surface elevations are proposed to be established between 211
feet MSL and 230 feet MSL. These elevations are anticipated to readily support most wetland
species occurring in areas impacted by the project, with the possible exception of freshwater
marsh species, which typically require continuously saturated soils to persist. However, before
plot site elevations are decided upon, test pits will be dug to assess actual water availability at the
revegetation plots. Plot surface elevations will then be selected in terms of providing the most
adventitious elevations to encourage wetland habitat establishment.
Restoration planning is often focused on plant association (community) based restoration models.
Baseline sampling of an existing plant association is utilized as a model to craft a plant palette
designed to replicate the desired association. This restoration strategy is generally successful
when the desired plant community's environmental needs can generally be predicted at the
restoration site. But with this project, site hydrology may fluctuate such that typical plant
association based restoration planning is problematic. Existing wetland associations supported
exclusively by reservoir water may be dramatically affected by advancing and receding water
Calavera Dam Habitat Revegetation, Maintenance, and Monitoring Program, 10/26/06 16
levels. Both existing wetland plant communities and proposed wetland revegetation may expand
and contract as each individual plant association's water requirements dictate. To successfully
revegetate wetlands under such a constantly variable hydrologic regime requires that the
restoration effort focus on the broad category of "wetland" establishment, and not on plant
association replication. Under these hydrologic circumstances, a sustainable wetland installation
is more likely to be created by planting with a single, diverse planting palette representative of all
the various wetland as desired. This method will allow natural selectionbased on
water availability to determine which species persist.
3.2 Wetland Creation Site Selection
Five sites have been selected to create new wetlands, Plot #1- Plot #5 (Figure 3). The sites were
I chosen because they provide as good an opportunity as is available in the study area to establish
new wetland in close proximity to supplemental irrigation. Creation plots were selected based on
the following criteria:
I 1) Existing Habitat - proposed plots support non-native grassland habitat
2) Adjacent Habitat - proposed plots occur adjacent to existing wetlands
I 3) agiLs - proposed plot soils support all habitat types proposed for creation.
4) Topography - proposed plot topography allows for less excavation to lower the sites
to desired elevations
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S) Vehicular Access - proposed plots are located near an unpaved roadway that will
allow equipment on-site without damage to existing desirable habitat. Only Non-
native grassland will be crossed to reach the revegetation sites.
6) Irrigation Water - proposed plots are located near a local street where reliable water
I is available
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3.3 Wetland Creation Plant Palette Selection
Project revegetation will target three plant communities, Southern Willow Scrub, Mulefat Scrub,
and Freshwater marsh. These communities are subject to hydrologic needs varying from
I saturated soil to species requiring little more than natural rainfall. To encourage the broadest
opportunity for successful establishment of wetlands, a single wetland plant palette will be
crafted from species typical of the plant communities impacted. Species to be revegetated
I include those proposed for impact as well as species anticipated to readily establish on the
proposed plots.
3.4 Wetland Creation Grading Concept
Test pit excavation and evaluation shall direct as-built plot finish surface elevations. Test pit
sampling should occur when the post-construction water elevation is at 208 feet MSL. At least
I one pit should be dug in each plot to a depth where ground water is encountered. The elevation
where ground water is found should represent the "average" ground water elevation of each plot,
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without seasonal adjustment.
It is anticipated that the low elevation of each plot be established at approximately 211 feet MSL,
and gradually rise to an elevation up to 216 msl. The shape of post-graded plots should be a
I bowl, with 2:1 manufactured slope on the upper elevation sides. These side slopes should be
replanted with native seed mix of understory plantings.
Calavera Dam Habitat Revegetation, Maintenance, and Monitoring Program, 10/26/06 17
I Excavation shall be accomplished without compacting revegetation plot soils. Digging
equipment used inside the plot should be rubber-tired. if the restoration ecologist determines that
I compaction or unsuitable soil is an issue, additional work may be directed to prepare acceptable
plot soils.
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Because of the possibility of variable ground water elevations, during the revegetation plot
establishment period, it is recommended that at least one piezometer be installed in a
revegetation plot as located per the restoration ecologist.
3.5 Wetland Creation Channeling
Channels may be cut as directed by the restoration ecologist to assist the movement of water
I across the revegetation plots. Channels may be cut toward the lake to assist in. capturing moisture if existing cover is not unduly damaged in the process. Maximum channel depth shall
be two feet. All excavated material shall be removed from the site. Machinery or hand
shoveling may be used as directed by the restoration ecologist.
3.6 Wetland Creation Implementation
"Creation" as applied to this document means establishment of a native plant community on a
site essentially devoid of natives. "Creation" will involve the following activities: site grading,
soil preparation, irrigation installation, weed eradication, container and seed installation, at least
five years of maintenance, and at least five years of performance monitoring.
The creation plots are located such that equipment and access to the sites should not disturb
existing native vegetation. However, non-native grassland may be affected, and an effort to
select the least impacting route will be made. if non-native grassland habitat is impacted during
the installation phase of the project a program to restore the impacted vegetation will be
implemented. This program may include temporary irrigation of temporarily impacted non-
native grassland. As-built drawings of the creation project will record where the impacts and
remedial restoration (if any) occurs. A description of all installation activities will be included in
the 1St annual report to resources agencies.
Wetland habitat creation work will typically include the following activities:
Fencing and Signage
Initial Ground Water Elevation Testing
Grading
Soil Sampling and Analysis
Irrigation Installation
Weed Abatement
Wetland Plant Installation
Non-native grassland Installation
I 3.6.1 Wetland Creation Fencing and Signage
During construction, pubic, access to work areas including creation areas shall be restricted.
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Post-construction lakeside access to creation plots shall continue to be restricted.
Environmental fencing shall be installed to differentiate work zones from existing vegetation to
be protected in place. Silt fencing shall be installed on the down-hill perimeter of each
Calavera Dam Habitat Revegetation, Maintenance, and Monitoring Program, 10/26/06 18
restoration plot. On the uphill side of each restoration plot, environmental fencing shall be
installed to discourage access to the creation plots (Figure 3).
Signage shall be installed at likely access points to discourage creation plot encroachment.
Signage shall provide language such: "DO NOT ENTER, Native Plant Restoration Area"
(followed by permit numbers and a City contact telephone number.
3.6.2 Initial Groundwater Elevation Testing
Using a backhoe or other rubber tired vehicle, dig at least one pit in a location selected by the
restoration ecologist. The restoration ecologist must be present at the time pits are dug to
observe soil moisture.
3.6.3 Wetland Creation Grading
Grading shall be accomplished with as small a tractor as feasible to reasonably accomplish the
soil removal process. A rubber tired vehicle shall be used so that soil compaction is kept to a
minimum. All spoils will be removed from the site and disposed of at a location suitable to the
City. Final surface elevations will be established by the restoration ecologist. Elevations may be
spot checked by a survey team prior to irrigation installation. Finish surfaces shall be left in a
rough state so that water can percolate rapidly into the soil without sheet draining to low points.
If requested by the restoration ecologist, ripping of the finish surface will be accomplished with
12" blades. If subsurface soils are exposed that are determined to be unsuitable to support the
desired plants, the restoration ecologist may request a work stoppage until a solution is agreed
upon.
3.6.4 Wetland Creation Soil Sampling and Analysis
Soil samples shall be collected after final grading of the plots has been accomplished. The
contractor shall collect at least one soil sample from each plot. Each sample shall be comprised
of soil taken from a minimum of three locations in each plot. Soil shall be taken from a depth of
8' to 12" below the finish grade of the creation plot. The three soil sub-samples shall be mixed
together to form one sample from each plot, and submitted to a testing lab for a complete
analysis. The soil sample shall be labeled with the habitat.type to be grown. Testing results shall
be provided to the restoration ecologist prior to planting activity. Soil testing lab
recommendations shall be implemented. As-built construction drawings approved by the City of
Carlsbad will document creation area configuration changes if unacceptable soil conditions are
discovered, and plots must be relocated.
3.6.5 Wetland Creation Irrigation Installation
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Install a below-grade mainline from a meter on Tamarack Avenue to the creation plots. The
mainline shall be located on or adjacent to dirt or asphalt roadways. The route chosen must not
disturb native habitat. Lateral lines shall be above-grade brown-line over non-native grassland or
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Disturbed Lands. The irrigation system shall be approved acceptable by the restoration
ecologist.
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3.6.6 Wetland Creation Weed Abatement
At least one cycle herbicide application shall occur prior to planting of wetland creation plots.
Herbicide shall be a chemical approved for use in wetland habitats, applied by a state licensed
Calavera Dam Habitat Revegetation, Maintenance, and Monitoring Program, 10/26/06 19
applicator. The restoration ecologist shall determine if a second cycle of pre-planting
herbiciding is necessary.
3.6.7 Wetland Creation Plant Installation
A combination of cuttings, container planting, and seeding are proposed to establish species
representative of the wetland habitats to be created. All the species listed in the hydroseed and
container planting lists were identified on site as associated to an impacted plant community,
with the exception of the non-native cover crops used for erosion control during the
establishment period.
Table 7 - Wetland Creation Target Composition
Hab; scientific name common name percent containers! # of containers!
type seed/ac seed per 0.47 ac.
SWS Salix lasiolepis Arroyo willow 40% 300 (141) 18" cut'g
MS Baccharis salicifolia Mulefat 10% 150 (7 1) 1 gal
SWS Salix gooddingii Black willow 10% 80 (38) 18" cut'g
SWS Salix exigua Sandbar willow 10% 100 (47) 1 gal
FM Scirpus robustus California rush 7% 75 (35) 1 gal, seed
FM Juncus dubius Mariposa rush 5% seed seed
MS Ambrosia psilostachya Western ragweed 7% seed seed
FM Typha latifolia Southern cattail 4% seed seed
SWS Juncus acutis Spiny rush 4% 50 (24) 4" pots
SWS sphaerocarpus San Diego sedge 2% 50 (24) 4" pots
CSM Carex spissa Saltgrass 2% 150 (71) 4" pots
SWS Disticlis spicata Saltmarsh fleabane 2% seed seed
Pluchea odorada
TOTAL required to install 0.47 acre 100% (17 9) 18" cut'g
(272) containers
11 lbs. native seed
Table 8 - Mix C: Wetland Creation Seed Mix
% Fur/Germ lbs/acre scientific name common name I 98 60 5.0 Scirpus robustus California bulrush
95 75 1.0 Juncus dubius Mariposa rush
80 50 1.0 Typha latifolia Southern cattail
20 30 3.0 Ambrosia psilostachya I Western ragweed
20 50 1.0 Pluchea odorata Marsh fleabane
40 30 3.0 Isocoma menziesii Goldenbush
98 75 15.0 Plantago insularis I Plantago
29.0 Total pounds per acre
3.6.8 Wetland Creation Cut-slope Erosion Control Planting Palette
A by-product of excavating soil to create wetland plots are the cut slopes that will be created on
I at least the uphill side of the new plots. These cut slopes will be restored with native upland
plants known for their soil holding characteristics and quick establishment.
Calavera Dam Habitat Revegetation, Maintenance, and Monitoring Program, 10/26/06 20
Table 9 - Mix D: Cut-slope Erosion Control Seed Mix
%Pur/Germ lbs/acre scientific name commOn name
15 60 3 Artemesiacalifornica Coast sagebrush
2 40 2 Baccharis pilularis Coyote brush
95 80 2 Bromus carinatus Native California brome
40 30 3 Isocoma menziesii Coast goldenbush
90 60 2 Lotus scoparius Deerweed
90 60 2 Melica imperfecta Coastrange melic
70 60 1 Nassella lepida Foothill needlegrass
70 60 1 Nassella pulchra Purple needlegrass
98 75 20 Plantago insularis Plantago
36.0 Total pounds per acre
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Cal avera Dam Habitat Revegetation, Maintenance, and Monitoring Program, 10/26/06 21
4.0 Wetland Enhancement
The project proposes to enhance 0.40 acre to meet the remainder of its Non-wetland Waters, of
the U.S. mitigation obligation. The proposed enhancement site is part of a canyon bottom
draining into Lake Calavera that presently supports both coyote brush scrub and wetland
associated species (see Plot 6 on Figure 3). Soils of the enhancement site are moist at the surface
in most locations (field verified July 2006 by Planning Systems), and heavily crusted with
accumulated salt deposits (probably accumulated from past agricultural runoff). Approximately
40% to 50% of the coyote brush that once densely occupied the site 'is dead;" woody tissue
remains in place. To date, approximate cover (estimated qualitatively), is 40% coyote brush,
10% native, wetland associated species, 5% ruderal wetland indicator species, and 45% bare soil.
Wetland associated species of the plot include: Mariposa rush (Juncus dubius), Mexican rush
(Juncus mexicana), Saltgrass, (Distichlis spicata), Deergrass (Muhlenbergia rigens) and Salt
marsh fleabane (Pluchea odorata, among others. Ruderal wetland indicator species include
Pampas grass (Cortaderia selloana), Bristly ox-tongue (Picrus echioides), Annual beard grass
(Polypogon monspeliensis) and Dock (Rumex sp.) among others. This site supports a
transitional community between wetland and upland habitats. The upland species appear to be
receding, providing an opportunity for native wetland and/or ruderal wetland species to occupy
and potentially dominate the site.
The proposed enhancement is to remove dead coyote brush biomass and seed in native wetland
I associated species now establishing through natural recruitment. No grading of the site is
proposed. A temporary irrigation system is proposed support seedling establishment. All non-
natives will be removed from the enhancement site for a period of five years. Once seed has
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been initially established, all native species will be allowed to naturally compete for dominance.
The goal of this project is to re-establish native cover suitable to present site conditions while
removing ruderal species that are competing for dominance.
4.1 Wetland Enhancement Implementation
"Enhancement" as applied to this project means establishment of a native plant community on a
I site supporting less than 50% native plants. "Enhancement" will involve the following activities:
irrigation installation, weed eradication, seed installation, at least five years of maintenance, and
at least five years of performance monitoring..
I The work to be performed will not disturb living natives on the plot. No grading is proposed.
As-built drawings of the enhancement project will record where the enhancement occurs. A
I description of all installation activities will be included in the 1St annual report to resources
agencies.
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Enhancement work will typically include the following activities:
Fencing and Signage
Soil Sampling and Analysis
I 3) Irrigation Installation
Weed Abatement
Seed Installation
I .
Calavera Dam Habitat Revegetation, Maintenance, and Monitoring Program, 10/26/06 22
4.2 Wetland Enhancement Fencing and Signage
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Pubic access to work areas including enhancement areas shall be restricted. Environmental
fencing shall be installed to differentiate work zones from existing vegetation to be protected in
place and to discourage access to the enhancement plots (Figure 3). Signage shall be installed at
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likely access points to discourage enhancement plot encroachment. Signage shall provide
language such: "DO NOT ENTER, Native Plant Restoration Area" (followed by permit numbers
and a City contact telephone number.
4.3 Wetland Enhancement Soil Sampling and Analysis
The contractor shall collect at least two soil samples from the plot. Each sample shall be
comprised of soil taken from a minimum of three locations in the plot. Soil shall be taken from a
depth of 8' to 12" below the finish grade of the creation plot. The three soil sub-samples shall be
mixed together to form one sample from each plot, and submitted to a testing lab for a complete
analysis. The soil sample shall be labeled with the habitat type to be grown. Testing results shall
be provided to the restoration ecologist prior to planting activity, if the soil test results indicate
conditions adverse to the establishment of the proposed seed mix, the biologist will recommend
an alternative seed mix (provided that an alternative seed mix is approved by the lead
environmental agency).
4.4 Wetland Enhancement Irrigation Installation
A temporary above-grade irrigation system will be installed to support seed establishment. The
systems will be operated the minimum amount required to establish seed. Excessive irrigations
will be avoided, so that existing natives will not be adversely affected. Lateral lines shall be
above-grade brown-line. The installed irrigation system shall be approved acceptable by the
restoration ecologist prior to use. No overspray onto areas outside of the plot will be permitted.
4.5 Wetland Enhancement Weed Abatement
Prior to seeding an intensive weed eradication campaign will be implemented. The least
impacting method of weed removal will be employed. Hand weeding will be employed as a
preferred method if it is likely to result in successful eradication. If better results are likely to
occur through the use of herbicide, then application(s) may occur, but only as scheduled under
the immediate observation of the restoration ecologist. Herbicide shall be a chemical approved
for use in wetland habitats, applied by a state licensed applicator. The restoration ecologist shall
determine if a second cycle of pre-seeding weed removal / herbiciding is necessary.
4.6 Wetland Enhancement Hydroseed Installation
Hydroseeding is proposed to establish species representative of the habitat to be created. All
species to be established occur in the immediate vicinity of the enhancement plot, with the
exception of the non-native cover crop used for erosion control during the establishment period.
Calavera Dam Habitat Revegetation, Maintenance, and Monitoring Program, 10/26/06 23
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Table 10- Mix E: Wetland Enhancement Seed Mix
% Pur/Genn lbs/acre scientific name common name
90 70 1.0 Distichlis spicata Saltgrass
95 75 0.5 Juncus a. sphaerocarpus - Spiny rush
95 75 1.0 Juncus dubius Mariposa rush
90 75 1.0 Juncus mexicanus Mexican rush
20 30 3.0 Ambrosia psilostachya Western ragweed
40 30 3.0 Isocoma menziesii Goldenbush
70 60 1.0 Muhlenbergia rigens Deergrass
20 50 1.0 Pluchea odorata Salt marsh fleabane
98 75 15.0 Plantago insularis Plantago
26.5 Total pounds per acre
Calavera Dam Habitat Revegetation, Maintenance, and Monitoring Program, 10/26/06 24
I 5.0 Installation Specifications
I if landscape construction documents are drafted, these specifications shall guide their scope and
intent, if a conflict becomes apparent in the field between the landscape constructióh docUments
and this plan, it shall be resolved as intended by this plan.
5.1 Irrigated Plots
Above grade, overhead irrigation shall be installed in creation/enhancement plots, and utilized
for seed and container plant establishment. Irrigation spray heads and nozzles will be selected to
match the areas of revegetation and shall be adjusted so as not to over spray to adjacent native
vegetation. The contractor shall provide adequate personnel to operate the system as required for
proper seed germination and plant growth. Irrigation scheduling will be accomplished in
consultation with the restoration ecologist. Initial operating times will be provided to the
installation contractor. The initial schedule will be an approximate, and adjustment will be
required according to actual field conditions, soil moisture, and weather. At the time that the
above-grade irrigation system is no longer deemed necessary by the City, all irrigation
components will be dismantled and removed form the site by the long term maintenance
contractor.
5.2 Container Planting
This program is a guide for revegetation installation. The seed mix type and quantities of
container material described in this plan must be replicated in the landscape construction
documents, and verified adequate by the restoration ecologist prior to contractor installation, if
plantings are installed that are substantially different from these specifications, the restoration
ecologist must report these changes in a post-installation report to resource agencies.
Container plants must be procured from a nursery located within a 50-mile radius of the project
site. The project shall install container plants grown from source material local to the North San
Diego County coastal zone, unless plants are not available at the time revegetation plots are
ready for installation. All plants shall arrive at the restoration site in a healthy condition, with at
least one plant of each species provided with a grower's identification label listing species and
source material collection area. No plants may be off-loaded to the restoration site until they are
inspected by the restoration ecologist, if any plant is found to be diseased or found transporting
undesirable pests such as Argentine ants, the entire truckload is subject to rejection by the
restoration ecologist or City personnel.
Container plants shall be planted just prior to seeding. The actual placement and spacing of
container plant materials shall be done in a semi-random, drift type pattern, in the quantities and
species specified. A grid pattern shall be avoided. The landscape architect or restoration
ecologist will direct the location of container material within each revegetation plot.
These planting procedures shall be exercised when planting container stock:
For irrigated sites, soil shall be moistened to 12" deep prior to digging planting holes.
Dig plant holes as deep and twice as wide as plant container.
Mix native soil with amendments if specified by soil lab per City specifications, (assume
no amendments are required for bid purposes).
Calavera Dam Habitat Revegetation, Maintenance, and Monitoring Program, 10/26/06 25
Plant so that rootball is 1" higher than the surrounding soil surface (For non-irrigated
sites, water must be delivered by water truck to the plot and holes must be filled TWICE
before containers are installed).
Irrigate per restoration ecologists schedule.
5.3 Hydroseeding (for hand seeding see Section 2.1.6)
After container installation has occurred, hydroseed in the designated areas. Hydroseeding shall
consist of a hydraulic application of a slurry mixture of water, seed, fertilizer, organic soil -.
stabilizer and mulch. The mix specified below may be amended per soil lab direction, after soil
sampling of revegetation plots has been accomplished per City specifications.
For bid purposes, apply the following materials in a one step hydroseed application:
2000 lbs/acre Cellulose Wood Fiber
100 lbs/acre Gaur (J3000 by Ranteck), Organic Soil Binder or equal
300 lbs. 15-15-15 (or as specified by soil lab)
Seed mix as specified
I All seed utilized by this project must be obtained from north coastal San Diego County, an area
from the Orange County line south to Sorrento Valley, and eastward to I-iS. If seed is not
available from a supplier, it must be collected from within the target collection area. The
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installation contractor shall verify seed availability to the City within two weeks of being
awarded the installation contract by the City. If seed of any required species is not readily
available, the contractor must immediately initiate arrangements to procure all required seed.
All seed shall be delivered to the project site in sealed containers. All seed shall be labeled
according to state and federal laws. Each sealed container shall bear the seed supplier's tags
which shall indicate the container weight, seed type (genus and species), seed purity %, seed
germination %, date seed tested, and place of collection.. Samples of each seed mix may be
drawn at the time of delivery to the site by the restoration ecologist. Samples shall be tested to
assure compliance with the seed specifications. The restoration ecologist must be notified no
less than 24 hours in advance of application of the hydroseed to observe seed delivery and the
seed container opening process.
5.4 Installation Sequence
The following sequence will be generally followed to establish revegetation onsite (for
enhancement sequence see Section 4.1 - Section 4.6). The precise schedule may be adjusted as
required by the restoration ecologist.
Fence areas to be preserved, and fence a work operations area.
Locate signage for preserve areas and work operations area.
Excavate plot to the satisfaction of the restoration ecologist.
Sample soil and implement recommendations if any.
Install irrigation (if applicable)
Implement weed grow and kill program to the satisfaction of the restoration
ecologist (for irrigated sites only).
Install containers
Seed
For non-irrigated sites, install topper or jute as directed by restoration ecologist.
Irrigate
Calavera Dam Habitat Revegetation, Maintenance, and Monitoring Program, 10/26/06 26
5.5 Construction Schedule•
I A final implementation schedule is provided below that indicates when all upland habitat and
riparian/wetland impacts, as well as creation/restoration/enhancement grading, planting and
irrigation shall begin and end. Upland habitat and riparian/wetland
I creation/restoration/enhancement grading, planting and irrigation shall be completed during the
concurrent or next planting season (i.e., late fall to early spring) after finishing grading within the
creation/restoration/enhancement area.
I The target schedule for implementing improvement is as follows:
Riparian/Wetland Impacts February 1, 2007
I Wetland Restoration/Enhancement Grading and Site Preparation Summer 2007
Irrigation Installed September 1, 2007
Grow and Kill September 5, 2007
I Container Planting November 1, 2007
Hydroseeding November 15, 2007
Germination Period-(30 days) - Nov. 15 - Dec. 15 2007
I Establishment Period- Dec 15-.Feb. 15 2007
Re-Seed, if needed January 15, 2008
Final Acceptance of Installation - (120 days) - February 15, 2008
I 5.5.1 Delayed Performance
Any temporal loss of upland habitat or wetland/riparian habitat caused by delays in upland
I habitat or wetland/riparian creation/restoration/enhancement shall be offset through upland
habitat or wetland/riparian creation/restoration/enhancement at a 0.5:1 ratio for every 6 months
of delay (i.e., 1:1 for 12 months delay, 1.5:1 for 18 months delay, etc.). In the event that the
I project applicant is wholly or partly prevented from performing obligations under the final plans
(causing temporal losses due to delays) because of unforeseeable circumstances or causes beyond
the reasonable control, and without the fault or negligence of the .project applicant, including but
I not limited to natural disasters (e.g., earthquakes, etc.), labor disputes, sudden actions of the
elements (e.g., further landslide activity), or actions by Federal or State agencies, or other
governments, the project applicant shall be excused by such unforeseeable cause(s).
I
Calavera Dam Habitat Revegetation, Maintenance, and Monitoring Program, 10/26/06 27
6.0 Maintenance Plan
I Maintenance is divided into two distinct contractual obligations, Establishment Maintenance and
Long Term Maintenance. A different company from the installation contractor may be employed
by the owner to perform long term maintenance, if desired. Establishment maintenance activities
I shall begin from the first day of container planting though the seeding, for a period no less than
120 days, until the restoration ecologist determines that the installation is "complete".
Establishment maintenance activities shall include irrigation, fertilization, intensive weeding and
I . plant replacement, delivering to the owner an installation that is weed free, and 100% complete
per the construction documents.
Long Term Maintenance shall begin at "Final Acceptance" of the installation, and continue for a
I period of from three to ten years until such time as the project has received official written notice
that project permit conditions have been satisfied.
I 6.1 Establishment Maintenance
The contractor shall be staffed and equipped adequately to provide sufficient personnel to
I maintain the revegetation to a high standard, including early morning hours and on weekends.
6.1.1 Irrigation
An initial schedule will be prepared as an approximate schedule for the application of
supplemental water. The schedule shall be adjusted as required by field conditions, plant growth
and weather, in coordination with the restoration ecologist.
Irrigation shall begin 24 hours after the hydroseeding is completed. Maintain even moisture on
the soil surface at all times. Depending on the weather and soils this may require short duration
applications as often as three times per day during warm sunny days. Do not create soggy
conditions by over watering. Schedule irrigation to occur in early morning hours (5 a.m. to
8:a.m.) during minimal wind. Use a soil probe to check soil moisture once a week during the
establishment period. As the seeds germinate and an even coverage of seedlings (two to three
inches in height) is realized, the frequency of irrigation should be gradually reduced and the
duration increased.
After initial establishment, infrequent deep irrigation is recommended. To obtain deep water
penetration and thoroughly moistened the soil to a depth of one to two feet it may be necessary to
cycle the irrigation system several times in one twenty-four hour period. Repair of manufactured
slopes and plantings due to erosion is a component of the establishment maintenance contractor's
responsibility.
6.1.2 Fertilizer
Fertilizer applications shall be applied by hand broadcasting at 45 days, and again 90 days after
the hydroseeding. Additional fertilization may be directed by the Restoration Ecologist.
6.1.3 Weed Abatement
The restoration ecologist shall initiate weed eradication activities so that a training session can be
scheduled to discuss weed removal procedures. All maintenance personnel involved in the
Calavera Dam Habitat Revegetation, Maintenance, and Monitoring Program, 10/26/06 28
weeding process must attend this start-up meeting. The. contractor must designate a weed crew
manager who will be the contact supervisor for weed removal information.
No weeds shall be allowed to set seed during the 120-day installation maintenance period unless
allowed by the restoration ecologist. The contractor must make a weeding crew available to
perform all weeding requested within one week of the restoration ecologist's request. Weeding
shall be by hand-pulling unless specifically directed otherwise by the restoration ecologist.
If mass herbiciding is allowed, the restoration ecologist shall be on-site to observe the beginning
of the work. The contractor must utilize techniques acceptable to the restoration ecologist. The
herbicide to be used shall be a chemical approved for use in wetland habitats, applied by a state
licensed applicator. The restoration ecologist shall determine if a second cycle of herbiciding is
necessary.
If it is determined that contractor negligence is responsible for excessive weed growth or for loss
.I of natives due to poor weeding practices, the contractor shall be responsible for replacement
plantings as determined to be necessary by the restoration ecologist.
I
6.1.4 Pest and Disease Control
In most cases pests will be tolerated, and pesticide application will not be required during a 120
I
establishment period. Only in circumstance of extreme plant duress, will pesticides be
authorized for use. Pesticides must only be applied by a state of California licensed applicator,
in strict adherence to all applicable state and federal law.
In the case of plant disease, the restoration ecologist will determine whether container plants will
U be replaced. Fungicides and bactericides are not preferred treatments. If the contractor is
directed to replace diseased plants, a new location for a hole must be selected. A healthy plant
shall not be replanted in a hole where a diseased plant has been removed. If damping-off of I seedlings has occurred due to excessively wet conditions, a cultural remedy may include
cultivation, or the addition of gypsum.
I 6.1.5 Inspection and Replacements
Uniform germination is essential throughout all seeded areas where irrigation is being delivered.
I Seeded areas without uniform growth may be the result of too much or too little water.
Regardless, re-seeding will be required in irrigated areas until a uniform cover of seedlings is
established. Hand seeding will be allowed for small areas, but species diversity must be similar
I to that in well establishing hydroseeded areas.
Container plants which, in the opinion of the restoration ecologist are dead or unhealthy shall be
I replaced according to original specifications. All replacement container plants will be located
with a flag, color coded to a particular species. A planting with 100% survival of container
plants must be delivered to the Owner at the end of the establishment maintenance period.
I In non-irrigated plots, remedial replanting will be necessary when establishment failure threatens
to drop the installation below acceptable performance standards (see Section 7.3.1, Table 10).
The restoration ecologist will determine the methods and the species to be replanted.
I
Calavera Dam Habitat Revegetation, Maintenance, and Monitoring Program, 10/26/06 29
6.1.6 Inspection Schedule
The landscape contractor shall walk the project with the restoration ecologist once a week until
acceptance of the revegetation, a minimum of 120 days.
6.2 Long Term Maintenance
Newly installed revegetation areas are subject to at least four years and eight months of long term
maintenance. The long term maintenance duration is dependent On when revegetation
performance standards are met. Upon final acceptance of the contractor's installation, at the end
of the establishment maintenance period, a maintenance contractor will be chosen by the owner
to implement the guidelines summarized in this section. To ensure that the installation is
adequately maintained, a restoration ecologist will observe maintenance activities, and make
recommendations to the owner. The restoration ecologist must have authority from the Owner to
observe all maintenance activities occurring onsite.
Maintenance activities will include: irrigation scheduling and monitoring of the irrigation
schedule, weed control, trash removal and vandalism control, erosion control, horticultural
recommendations, and replacement of vegetation that fails to meet survival parameters.
6.2.1 Irrigation
Supplemental irrigation will assist wetland creation plot plant establishment for the duration
required to produce a self-supporting plant community. Irrigation scheduling will be the adjusted
per plant cultural requirements by the restoration ecologist in consultation with the maintenance
contractor. When it is determined by the restoration ecologist, in consultation with the owner, and
his representatives that the installation is self-sustaining, written notice will be provided to
permitting agencies that cessation of supplemental irrigation has occurred. Upon completion of the
monitoring phase of the project, the irrigation system will either be dismantled and/or abandoned.
6.2.2 Trash Removal and Vandalism Control
Pruning or removal of native vegetation may occur only if approved by the restoration ecologist.
All weeds be removed from the property and disposed of at a recognized disposal site. Trash
removal must be performed by hand at least twice a year during the monitoring period. Vandalism
of plantings, irrigation, and/or other revegetation associated equipment shall be reported in writing
by the maintenance contractor and/or other owner's representatives to the owner within 3 working
days of discovery. Replacement of poorly performing or vandalized equipment must be
accomplished immediately to ensure proper plant growth. Plantings damaged by lack of proper
irrigation are the responsibility of the contractor, even if vandalism is the cause. The contractor
will be required to replace planting that die due to lack of proper irrigation.
6.2.3 Weed Abatement - see Section 6.1.3.
6.2.4 Erosion Control
Repair of manufactured slopes and plantings due to erosion is part of the long term maintenance
contractor's responsibility. The maintenance contractor is required to repair small erosion
problems as noticed when they are small, and not to allow them to become major problems.
After repaired, seeding and or container planting of the problem area will occur, as directed by
the restoration ecologist.
Calavera Dam Habitat Revegetation, Maintenance, and Monitoring Program, 10/26/06 30
6.2.5 Horticultural Recommendations
No fertilizer will be applied by the maintenance contractor unless directed by the restoration
ecologist. Various chemical treatments such as hormones, pesticides, fungicides, and herbicides
will not be applied unless a severe threat to the installation is imminent, and must first be
approved by the restoration ecologist. All minor pest infestations will be tolerated.
6.2.6 Replacement of Vegetation
Replacement of missing or poorly performing plants will occur as directed by the restoration
ecologist. Plantings specified will have a composition similar to the plant material specified in
the original installation, unless previous establishment failures suggest otherwise. Timing of the
installation and supplemental irrigation procedures will be determined by the restoration
ecologist. If replacement vegetation areas become adequately established on, the site, and do not
cause the plant community evaluation to fall below acceptable final performance standards, no
extension to the monitoring and maintenance program is required.
6.2.7 Level of Maintenance and Inspection Schedule
A minimum five years of maintenance of riparian/wetland creation/restoration/enhancement
areas shall take place, unless success criteria are met earlier and all artificial water supplies have
been off for at least two years.
The level of maintenance necessary to establish revegetation that meets performance standards
will vary from year to year and will also depend upon variables that are unique to the
revegetation site. In general, year dne maintenance activity will occur once a week. Years two
and three will require less maintenance than year one, and may require maintenance only once
every two weeks. However, during the five year establishment period, maintenance personnel
must inspect the revegetation site at least once a month, and must notify the restoration ecologist
if a problem threatening performance standard compliance is observed. A log of maintenance
activity must be kept by the maintenance contractor during the entire five year period, and made
available to the restoration ecologist upon request.
The maintenance contractor shall walk the project with the restoration ecologist, every quarter
during qualitative monitoring inspections for the first three 'years of the project, or until
supplemental irrigation has been turned off. During year four and year five annual inspections,
the maintenance contractor will walk the revegetation site with the restoration ecologist.
Calavera Dam Habitat Revegetation, Maintenance, and Monitoring Program, 10/26/06 31
7.0 Monitoring Plan
The monitoring contractor shall employ personnel with previous revegetation monitoring
experience to observe, make recommendations, and report project status as directed by this plan.
7.1 Performance Monitoring
This section provides direction for the performance monitoring of revegetation. The revegetation
effort will be deemed successful when the performance standards specified in this plan have been
met, and the project has received written confirmation that all habitat permit requirements have
been met: These standards are designed to anticipate a period when the plantingsare self-
sustaining and no longer require extensive weed control. A minimum five years of monitoring of
riparian/wetland creation/restoration/enhancement areas shall take place, unless success criteria
are met earlier and all artificial water supplies have been shut off for a least two years. This
period is anticipated to be five years following planting for created wetland, upland restoration,
and enhancement plots. Erosion control of cut-slopes created by the wetland restoration will be
monitored by visual estimate only, primarily to insure that erosion is controlled so wetland plot
elevations are maintained as excavated.
Two types of performance monitoring shall occur, qualitative monitoring and quantitative
monitoring. Qualitative monitoring provides a general visual assessment of project growth,
health, maintenance and recommendations. Quantitative monitoring provides revegetation area
data as measured by transect protocols.
Monitoring will assess species survivorship, coverage and composition, use and health of the
habitat, and remedial measures necessary to facilitate compliance with performance measures.
A map of proposed sampling locations will be provided. Photo points shall be used for
qualitative monitoring and stratified-random sampling shall be used for all quantitative
monitoring.
7.2 Qualitative monitoring
At the time of final acceptance of the contractors installation (scheduled for 120 days after
installation), performance monitoring shall commence. During the first year, qualitative
monitoring shall occur once a month during months five through twelve. For year two,
monitoring will occur once every three months. For years three, four and five, monitoring will
occur once every six months. Each revegetation area will be observed, and notes will document
area status. Qualitative surveys will consist of a comprehensive walk and observation of each
plot. Monitoring observation notes shall be distributed to the owner and to the maintenance
contractor. A summary of qualitative monitoring will be incorporated into project quarterly and
annual status reports.
Calavera Dam Habitat Revegetation, Maintenance, and Monitoring Program, 10/26/06 32
I The following categories will be assessed during each quarterly site walkover:
Irrigation system I i)
Trash I Vandalism
Weed growth! status
Erosion
Pests / Disease
Survival of contractor installed containers and cuttings (until visually indistinct from
seed grown materials)
I 6) Vegetative cover of key vegetation
Percent cover of key species
Observations / Recommendations (general health, cultural issues, maintenance
I recommendations, project compliance recommendations, animal use of the habitat).
7.2.1 Photodocumentation
I Photodocumentation stations will be established at locations where views best capture the
project. The same photo stations will be used throughout the project. Project reports will
include a current photo of each photo station for that reporting period. Annual reports will I include baseline and current photographs for the year for each photo station.
73 Quantitative Monitoring of Created / Enhanced Wetlands
Quantitative data will be collected once each year (between the months of January and June) to
measure project growth. California native Plant Society data sampling protocols will be
employed to generate data. Transect data will then be averaged to provide a composite sample
that will be compared to performance standards listed in Section 7.4. One SOm transect will be
located for each wetland habitat plot. For native grassland restoration, a qualitative assessment
will be provided, but no transect data will be collected. If the revegetated habitat does not meet
or exceed the performance standards for that year, remedial measures will be recommended to
the owner for implementation during the next growing season.
7.3.1 Performance Standards for Created / Enhanced Wetland Habitat
Performance standards will determine if the restoration / revegetation areas have satisfied permit
conditions, and shall be released from further mitigation requirements.
I
I
.1
I
I
Calavera Dam Habitat Revegetation, Maintenance, and Monitoring Program, 10/26/06 33
Table 11— Created I Enhanced Wetland Habitat Performance Standards
120 Day
Performance Standards:
95% survival of contractor installed container material. 85% survival of
contractor installed cutting material
Uniform germination of seed
1st Year Standards: 80% survival of installed container/cutting material. Replace all dead
plants unless their function and value has been replaced by natural
recruitment
20% vegetative cover of key vegetation. '
2nd Year Standard: 80% survival of installed container/cutting material. Replace all dead
plants unless their function and value has been, replaced by natural
recruitment
40% vegetative cover of key vegetation
3rd Year Standards:' 60% vegetative cover of key vegetation.'
By year-end, shut off supplemental irrigation.
4th Year Standards: 75% vegetative cover of key vegetation
Allow no supplemental irrigation.
5th Year Standards: 85% vegetative cover of key vegetation, including:
-tree overstory cover = 55% minimum
-shrub midstory cover = 15% minimum
-herbaceous understory cover = 15% minimum
Evidence of natural recruitment of multiple species for all habitat types
0% coverage for all Cal-IPC species
No more than 10% cover for other exotic/weed species
7.3.2 Assessing Wetland Creation Species Composition
For this project, the target habitat is "wetlands", a compositional unit not based on a single plant
community. Site hydrology is anticipated to favor dryer adapted wetland species, so facultative
wetland plants associated with Southern Willow Scrub and Mulefat Scrub are likely to dominate
the revegetation plots. Obligate wetland species may establish weakly, particularly at higher
elevations of the revegetation plots. Still, successful wetland establishment for this project
should be measured in terms of survivorship of the species installed. To this end it is proposed
that the species installed should combine to represent at least 50% of the ultimate vegetative
cover, based on quantitative monitoring results at the time the project petitions to be released
from its monitoring obligation.
The target list of wetland species to equal 50% composition at project release includes:
Salix lasiolepis
Baccharis salicifolia
Salix gooddingii
Salix exigua
Scirpus robustus
Juncus acutis sphaerocarpus
Ambrosia psilostachya
Arroyo willow
Mulefat
Black willow
Sandbar willow
California rush
Spiny rush
Western ragweed
The remaining cover may be comprised of facultative or obligate wetland species occurring in
wetlands local to the study area.
Calavera Dam Habitat Revegetation, Maintenance, and Monitoring Program, 10/26/06 34
I Sampling will provide data on ultimate vegetative cover of key vegetation, and percent survival
of key species. Vegetative cover of key vegetation refers to the percentage of cover of native
I plants appropriate to the habitat type being revegetated in the sample. With overlapping
canopies of vegetation, over one-hundred percent cover is possible. Covers other than
appropriate native species are bare, litter, and exotic species. Consistent sampling techniques
will be used throughout the monitoring process to ensure accurate comparisons. Results will be
included in the project annual reports submitted to the resource agencies.
I .
73.3 Wetland Delineation . . . . .
A wetland delineation shall be done to confirm that Corps jurisdictional wetlands have been
successfully created/restored prior to final approval of creation/restoration sites.
7.3.4 Other Wetland Creation I Enhancement Test Conditions
I .Non-native grasses shall be ignored in the samples, and removed from the data sets. The reason
is that control of these grasses will only be possible when the cover is dense enough to inhibit
grass growth. Density of canopy is a function of the age of the restored/ revegetated area. Since
I these communities may be relatively young when sampled, they may be well enough established
to thrive indefinitely, but not as dense as old growth stands that have been sampled as reference
areas. If non-native grasses are controlled by herbicide, loss of desirable species is sure tooccur.
1 If a habitat type(s) fails the final performance test, and other type(s) successfully pass
performance testing, those types that have successfully tested will not require re-testing.
However, all habitats must successfully test, or other measures must be arranged, prior to release
I of the mitigation obligation. Additionally, final performance monitoring shall not occur until:
1) at least two years has passed since supplemental irrigation has been utilized
I 2) at least three years since seed or plants have been installed
3) all permit special conditions have been met
I 7.4 Quantitative Monitoring of Created I Restored CSS Habitat and Native Cut-
Slope Revegetation
Quantitative data will be collected once each year (between the months of January and June) to
measure project growth. Both point-intercept line transect sampling and fixed 1 meter quadrats
will be used to generate data. Two .25 meter transects and two 1 meter quadrats will be located
within the restoration plot(s). If the revegetated habitat does not meet or exceed the performance
standards for that year, remedial measures will be recommended to the owner for implementation
during the next growing season.
7.4.1 Performance Standards for Created and Restored CSS Habitat and Native Cut-Slope
Revegetation
Performance standards will determine if the restoration area(s) las satisfied permit conditions,
and shall be released from further mitigation requirements.
i
I
Calavera Dam Habitat Revegetation, Maintenance, and Monitoring Program, 10/26/06 35
I
I
I
Table 12— Created and Restored CSS Habitat and Cut-Slope Revegetation Performance
Standards
120 Day Uniform germination of seed.
Performance Standards:
1St Year 5% vegetative cover of key vegetation
Performance Standards: non-natives not to exceed 15% ultimate cover
2nd Year 10% vegetative cover of key vegetation
Performance Standards: non-natives not to exceed 20% ultimate cover•
3rd Year 20% vegetative cover of key vegetation -
Performance Standards: non-natives not to exceed 20% ultimate cover 4th Year 35% vegetative cover of key vegetation
Performance Standards: non-natives not to exceed 15% ultimate cover
5th Year 60% vegetative cover of key vegetation for created areas
Performance Standards: 50% vegetative cover of key vegetation for restored areas
40% to 65% ultimate vegetative cover for native cut-slope revegetation
7.4.2 Assessing CSS Creation and Restoration Species Composition
For this project, the target habitat is species typically associated with coastal sage scrub, and also
any other native species that volunteer in the restoration plot(s). Given that this restoration is
non-irrigated, native cover is anticipated to establish slowly. Still, successful upland
establishment for this project should be measured in terms of survivorship of the species
installed. At least one-half of the species installed should combine to represent over 50% of the
ultimate vegetative cover, based on quantitative monitoring results at the time the project
petitions to be released from its monitoring obligation.
For a list of CSS Creation species to equal 60% composition at project release, See Table 3, page
9.
For a list of CSS Restoration species to equal 50% composition at project release, see table 4,
page 11.
7.4.3 Other Upland Restoration Test Conditions
Weed control will be a particularly important function in upland restoration plots to
discourage non-natives from out-competing native seedlings. Strict monitoring and
control of non-natives is required. No more than 10% coverage for other exotic/weed
species and 0% coverage for Cal-JPC List A and B species will be allowed.
Spot herbicide treatments will be utilized to control weeds. The restoration shall
authorize herbiciding as necessary to control weed establishment.
Evidence of natural recruitment of multiple species.
7.5 Bird Monitoring
If maintenance of a wetland area is occupied by vireos and/or flycatchers between March 15 and
September 15.'a biologist permitted by the Service will survey for vireos and/or flycatchers
within the creation/restoration/enhancement area, access paths to it, and other areas susceptible
to disturbances by site maintenance. Surveys will consist of three visits separated by two weeks
starting April 1 of each maintenance/monitoring year. Restoration work will be allowed to
continue on the site during the survey period. However, if vireos and/or flycatchers are found
Calavera Dam Habitat Revegetation, Maintenance, and Monitoring Program, 10/26/06 36
during any of the visits, the applicant will notify and coordinate with the Agencies to identify
measures to avoid and/or minimize effects to the vireo and/or flycatcher (e.g., nests and an
I .appropriate buffer will be flagged by the biologist and avoided by the maintenance work).
If maintenance of a coastal sage scrub creation/restoration/enhancement area is necessary
I
between February 15 and August 31, a biologist permitted by the Service will survey for
gnatcatchers within the creation/restoration/enhancement area, access paths to it, and other areas
susceptible to disturbances by site maintenance. Surveys will consist of three visits separated by
two weeks starting March 1 of each-maintenance/monitoring year. Work will be allowed to
I
continue on the site during the survey period. However, if gnatcatchers are found during any of
the visits, the applicant will notify and coordinate with the Agencies to identify measures to
avoid and/or minimize effects to the gnatcatcher (e.g., nests and an appropriate buffer will be
flagged by the biologist and avoided by the maintenance work.
I
7.6 Record Keeping
Project records will be kept on file with the restoration ecologist. Data collected during the
project will be distributed to the project owner, the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers, and other
I
resource agencies no later than December 1 of each sampling year. Records of both positive and
negative results from both qualitative and quantitative sampling efforts will be incorporated into
the yearly status reports to be submitted to resource agencies.
I 7.7 Reporting
Project reports shall be submitted quarterly to resources agencies as required by permit.
I
Qualitative monitoring reports will be submitted two to three times a year, and annual reports
will be submitted once a year, detailing quantitative monitoring. Annual reports will include:
I
i) a summary of the project with appropriate maps,
a summary of qualitative monitoring for the year,
quantitative data sampling results,
I
4) photo documentation
a summary of methodology and results for revegetation areas,
other information required by permit.
I 7.7.1 Monitoring and Reporting Schedule
The information to be provided and the schedule for providing project reports to the U. S. Army
I Corps of Engineers and other resources agencies, and is as follows:
Table 13— Agency Reporting Schedule
Month Monitoring Objective Action Report to ACOE
0 a complete installation has Notice agencies that the Win 1 week of
been delivered to the owner. monitoring period has begun. installation
acceptance
4 meet 120 day performance Submit report documenting w/in one month of
standard, and confirm installation. Make maintenance monitoring
uniform seed germination / recommendations. Prescribe
growth, photo remedial planting
Calavera Dam Habitat Revegetation, Maintenance, and Monitoring Program, 10/26/06 37
6 monitor per qualitative Make maintenance Win one month of
standards, observe remedial recommendations, to owner / monitoring
establishment if necessary, maintenance contractor.
photo Report status to agencies.
9 monitor per qualitative Make maintenance Win one month of
standards, photo. recommendations. to owner / monitoring
maintenance contractor.
Report status to agencies.
12 Conduct quantitative Make maintenance w/in 75 days -of
monitoring. Evaluate data in recommendations. to owner I monitoring
terms of performance maintenance contractor.
standards. Recommend remedial planting if
necessary. Report status to
agencies.
15 monitor per qualitative Make maintenance Win one month of
standards, observe remedial recommendations. to owner / monitoring
establishment if necessary, maintenance contractor.
photo Report status to agencies.
18 same as month nine same as month nine same as month nine
21 same as month nine same as month nine same as month nine
24 same as month twelve same as month twelve same as month 12
32 same as month nine same as month nine same as month nine
36 same as month twelve, same as month twelve same as month 12
Determine if establishment
merits discontinuing
supplemental irrigation.
42 1 same as month nine same as month nine same as month nine
48 same as month twelve same as month twelve same as month 12
54 same as month nine Submit report documenting Win one month of
findings. Ask lead agency for monitoring.
final monitoring to occur.
60 Quantitative monitoring will Submit report documenting Win 75 days of
be conducted by an findings. Ask for release of monitoring
independent contractor obligation if performance
suitable to the CDFG and the standards have been met. Submit
ACOE. remedial mitigation plan if
performance standards have not
been met.
7.8 Final Performance Monitoring
Final performance monitoring shall be conducted by an independent contractor acceptable to the
lead agency, and funded by the applicant/owner. Final performance monitoring will take place
upon the applicant's request to the lead agency, but no sooner than four years after the
installation is completed, as dated by the restoration ecologist's written notice to the contractor
that a complete installation has been delivered to the owner. If the performance standards are not
met after ten years, the applicant shall submit a remediation plan as an amendment to the
environmental permits.
Calavera Dam Habitat Revegetation, Maintenance, and Monitoring Program, 10/26/06 38
I 7.9 Contingency Measures
I If all project performance standards have not been met by six years after the initial installation,
and if the project biologist believes that further attempts to create riparian habitat on the
mitigation plots will continue to be unsuccessful, the City may request that the Corps allow the
I
adoption of a contingency measure(s) in partial satisfaction of the project mitigation requirement.
The Corps shall have complete discretion in accepting or rejecting any proposed contingency
measures. Possible contingency measures may include the following:
Provided that a minimum of 0.47 acre ofwetland habitat has been created on the
I mitigation plots (equivalent to a no-net-loss of habitat), then purchase of mitigation
credits may be considered for the remaining 0.40 acre of mitigation requirement.
Provided that a minimum of 0.47 acre of wetland habitat has been created on the
I mitigation plots (equivalent to a no-net-loss of habitat), then enhancement of degraded
existing habitat may be considered as a substitute for the remaining mitigation
requirement.
I 3) An alternative mitigation site may be considered to create willow riparian habitat for
the remaining mitigation requirement.
I 7.8.1 Alternative Locations for Contingency Compensatory Mitigation
No alternative sites for compensatory mitigation are proposed at this time.
I 7.8.2 Funding Mechanism
Funding for contingency measures shall be the obligation of the City of Carlsbad.
7.8.3 Responsible Parties
Applicant: City of Carlsbad
Engineering Department
1635 Faraday Ave.
• Carlsbad, CA 92008
Contact: Chris Muehlbacher
Calavera Dam Habitat Revegetation, Maintenance, and Monitoring Program, 10/26/06 39
8.0 References
Bossard, C.C., Randall, J.M., and Hoshovsky, M.C., Editors, 2000, Invasive Plants of California
Wildlands. University of California Press, Santa Rosa, CA. 360 pp.
California Coastal Commission, 2001, Coastal Development Permit No. 6-84-617-A. San Diego,
Hickman, J.C., Editor, 1993, The Jepson Manual, Higher Plants of California. University of
California, Berkeley, CA, pp. 1392.
I Holland, .R.F., 1986, Preliminary Description of the Terrestrial Natural Communities of
California, Unpublished technical report. State of California, The Resources Agency,
Department of Fish and Game, Natural History Division, Sacramento, CA.
Faber, P.M., and Holland, R.F., 988, Common Riparian Plants of California. Pickleweed Press,
Mill Valley, CA. pp. 140.
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