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Home My WebLink About; Cannon Road Reach 4; Cannon Road Reach 4; 2005-03-01FINAL PRELIMINARY ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS REPORT FOR THE CANNON ROAD REACH 4 PROJECT Prepared for: The City of Carlsbad 1635 Faraday Avenue Carlsbad, California 92008-7314 Prepared by: EDAW, Inc. 1420 Kettner Boulevard, Suite 620 San Diego, California 92101 March 2005 TABLE OF CONTENTS '** Section Page *a». m PROJECT INFORMATION 1 PROJECT DESCRIPTION 1 ** Purpose and Need 2 •«, Alternatives 2 ^ Northern Alternative 7 Central Alternative 7 Southern Alternative 7 *" No Build Alternative 8 ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL DOCUMENTATION 8•«» SUMMARY STATEMENT 10 t«a SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS 10 MITIGATION 13 PERMITS 13 DISCLAIMER 14 SUMMARY CHECKLIST 15 Environmental Technical Reports or Studies Required 15 DISCUSSION OF TECHNICAL REVIEW 14 Methodology 14 •«« Review of Previous Documents 14 ^ Environmental Issue Analysis 15 Community Impact/ Socioeconomics 16 Socioeconomics 16 Land Use 17 Farmland 21 ••m* Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR Page i ** 04080118CarmonRdReach4PEARrev.doc 3/16/2005 Section 4(f) Evaluation 21 Visual Resources 22 Water Quality 24 Noise 25 Air Quality 28 Climate 28 Regulatory Framework 29 Paleontology 31 Wild and Scenic River Consistency 32 Cultural Resources 32 Hazardous Waste 34 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES 36 Existing Conditions 36 Methodology 36 Vegetation 39 Wildlife 48 Floodplain Evaluation 76 Cumulative Impacts 76 LIST OF PREPARERS 77 REFERENCES 78 APPENDICES A Preliminary Environmental Study Form B Community Impact Assessment Checklist Page ii Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR 040801 IS Camion Rd Reach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/2005 LIST OF FIGURES Figure Page 1 Regional Map 3 2 Vicinity Map 4 3 Alternatives Cannon Road Reach 4 Study Area 5 4 Conservation Areas Cannon Road Reach 4 Study Area 19 5 Hazardous Site Vista Data Search 37 6 Vegetation Within the Cannon Road Reach 4 Study Area 41 7 Sensitive Species Within the Cannon Road Reach 4 Study Area 57 LIST OF TABLES Table Page 1 Vegetation Communities within the Study Area and the Three Alternatives 40 2 Sensitive Plant Species and Potential for Occurrence within the Cannon Road Reach 4 Study Area 59 3 Sensitive Wildlife Species and Potential for Occurrence within the Cannon Road Reach 4 Study Area 65 4 Mitigation Ratios for HMP Habitats 71 5 Direct and Indirect Impacts and Mitigation Requirements for Vegetation Communities for the Three Alternatives 71 Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR Page iii 04080118 Cannon KdReach 4 PEAR rm.doc 3/16/2005 This page intentionally left blank. Page iv Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR 04080118 Cannon Rd Reach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/2005 PROJECT INFORMATION This Preliminary Environmental Analysis Report (PEAR) was prepared by EDAW, Inc., under contract to the City of Carlsbad. It is intended as a preparatory stage for project studies leading to the construction of the final segment of Cannon Road in the City of Carlsbad, referred to as Cannon Road Reach 4. The purpose of the study is to evaluate alternatives for the construction of Cannon Road, which would be extended from its existing terminus from the existing College Boulevard to the city of Oceanside approximately 9,100 feet to the northeast. The project is located within the city of Carlsbad, Caltrans District 11, San Diego County between Interstate 5 and College Boulevard. The purpose of this PEAR is to: • Develop an inventory of environmental resources and a list of potential project issues or impacts that could significantly delay or affect the viability of any project alternative. • Determine additional studies that are needed to complete the environmental processing for the project (noting, as necessary, any seasonal constraints for these studies). • Identify likely necessary mitigation measures and an estimate of time to negotiate with permitting agencies. • Determine the type of environmental document proposed and a tentative schedule for its completion, and identify the Lead Agencies. Development of project alternatives and the review of environmental issues has been conducted by a Project Development Team (PDT) consisting of City of Carlsbad staff, environmental consultants from EDAW, Inc., and consulting engineers from RBF Consulting. PROJECT DESCRIPTION The proposed project site extends from the existing Cannon Road (Reach 3)/College Boulevard intersection in Carlsbad, to the existing segment of Cannon Road to the northeast and east within the city of Oceanside. The proposed project would include the construction of a 102-foot-wide roadway with two 12-foot travel lanes in each direction. Additional design standards for the proposed Cannon Road Reach 4 would include an 18-foot-wide landscape median, curb, gutter, and sidewalk, as well as fire hydrants and streetlights. Funding for the proposed project would Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR Page 1 04080118 Cannon Rd Reach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/2005 be provided by the City of Carlsbad, San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG), state, and federal funds. The proposed project site is located in the city of Carlsbad. Carlsbad is bounded by the city of Oceanside on the north and the northeast, the city of Vista on the northeast, unincorporated areas of San Diego County and the city of San Marcos on the east, the city of Encinitas on the south, and the Pacific Ocean on the west. The proposed project's regional location is shown in Figure 1, and a vicinity map is provided as Figure 2. Purpose and Need The proposed project is needed to complete the final link of Cannon Road as included in the Circulation Element of the Carlsbad General Plan. The connection would provide a link between interior portions of Carlsbad, as well as Oceanside and San Marcos, with the Interstate 5 corridor. Current traffic demands in the proposed project vicinity meet or exceed the lowest acceptable Level of Service (LOS) for Carlsbad (LOS D for peak hours, LOS C for off peak hours). However, traffic volumes are anticipated to increase such that under the No Project scenario, LOS at a number of intersections would be expected to deteriorate to unacceptable conditions at buildtout without mitigation. Alternatives Three build alternatives and a No Build Alternative were chosen for further analysis in this document following a review of candidate alternatives by the PDT. The three build alternatives under consideration are the Northern Alternative, Central Alternative, and Southern Alternative. All three alternatives would comply with the Carlsbad General Plan design standards for major arterial streets and include a 102-foot roadway with two 12-foot travel lanes in each direction; an 8-foot bicycle lane in each direction; an 18-foot-wide landscape median with curb, gutter, and sidewalk; and streetlights. A conceptual drawing showing the proposed plan view layouts for each of the feasible alternatives is included as Figure 3. Cannon Road Reach 4, the segment that extends from the Cannon Road (Reach 3)/College Boulevard intersection across the Carlsbad Unified School District, was certified by the Carlsbad City Council in EIR 98-02 on January 15, 2002. The central alignment is covered by this EIR. However, the Northern and Southern alternatives would need additional environmental review beyond this document. Page 2 Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR 040S0118 Camion Rd Reach 4 PEAR rm.doc 3/16/2005 I I I I ORANGE COUNTY fo I RIVERSIDE COUNTY Rainbow SAN DIEGO COUNTY San Marcos Escondido PROJECT LOCATION _*, Solaha Beach Lake Lakeside Jennings National City A ^\ Otay ReservoirChula Vista (W^ ir San Diego Imperial Beach U^MExico Figure 1 Regional Map No Scale Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR P:\2004\04080II8 Carlsbad Cannon RdEnvironmental Svcs\6Graphics\Figl_rmap.fhll (dbracfy) 12/07/04 Figure 2 Vicinity Map I I I I I I I I Northern Alternative Central Alternative Southern Alternative Overpass Source: Eagle Aerial, Nov 2003; RBF Engineering, 2005 600 300 0 600 Feet Scale: 1:7,200; 1 inch = 600 feet Figure 3 Alternatives Cannon Road Reach 4 Study Area Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR 2004\040801I8 Carlsbad Cannon Rd Eni-ironmcnlal S\TS\5GIS\UxJ\alli'nialives_l Ixl 7.mxd SP83fZ6 1/25/05 Northern Alternative The Northern Alternative would extend to the northeast and east from the existing Cannon Road (Reach 3)/College Boulevard intersection, to the existing southern terminus of Cannon Road within the city of Oceanside. The topographic condition for this alternative changes dramatically as the roadway would traverse steep slopes with elevations ranging from approximately 80 feet above mean sea level (amsl) to approximately 400 feet amsl. In addition to agricultural fields, the Northern Alternative would traverse areas covered by Diegan coastal sage scrub, southern mixed chaparral, Diegan coastal sage scrub/non-native grassland ecotone, and mulefat scrub vegetation communities. Of the three build alternatives, the Northern Alternative would remove the largest portion of the parking area from the New Venture Christian Fellowship Church. The church is located at the existing southern terminus of Cannon Road in Oceanside. Impacts would occur requiring a new parking lot and a pedestrian crossing over/under Cannon Road. Central Alternative The Central Alternative would extend northeast and east from the existing Cannon Road (Reach 3)/College Boulevard intersection to the southern terminus of Cannon Road within the city of Oceanside, roughly as shown in the General Plan. Although the elevation range traveled by the roadway would be similar to the Northern Alternative (approximately 80 feet amsl to 400 feet amsl), the changes in elevation would be more gradual. In addition to agricultural fields, the Central Alternative would traverse eucalyptus woodland, diegan coastal sage scrub, cismontane alkali marsh, southern willow scrub, and southern arroyo willow riparian woodland vegetation communities. The Central Alternative would also encroach on the New Venture Christian Fellowship Church parking area, but to a lesser extent than the Northern Alternative. Parking lot replacement and pedestrian access would remain an issue. •m ,«, Southern Alternative The Southern Alternative would extend northeast and east from the existing Cannon Road (Reach 3)/College Boulevard intersection to the existing Cannon Road within the city of Oceanside. The elevation range for this alternative is the least dramatic of the three. In addition to agricultural fields, the Southern Alternative would traverse Diegan coastal sage scrub, Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR Page 7 040801 IS Cannon Rd Reach -I PEAR rm.doc 3/16/2005 southern mixed chaparral, southern arroyo willow riparian woodland, and southern live oak riparian forest vegetation communities. To minimize potential impacts to the southern live oak riparian forest, two overpasses would be included with the construction of the Southern Alternative. The first overpass would be placed approximately 1,200 feet east of the existing Cannon Road (Reach 3)/College Boulevard intersection at the base of the forest, and the second overpass would be placed approximately 1,500 feet west of the proposed terminus in Oceanside. The overpasses would also serve to minimize potential impacts to an unnamed intermittent tributary that flows from the northeast to the southwest adjacent to the agricultural fields and eventually drains into Agua Hedionda Lagoon. RBF Consulting is currently designing a general plan for the overpasses. No Build Alternative Under the No Build Alternative, the proposed project site would remain in its current condition. No roadway would be constructed. Based on the anticipated growth within the region, roadway traffic volumes within Carlsbad are expected to increase. According to preliminary traffic studies, implementation of the Cannon Road Reach 4 project would allow intersections in the project vicinity to operate at a future LOS C (stable flow restricted by high volume) or better during AM peak hours and LOS E (unstable) or better during PM peak hours (RBF 2004). Without the project, estimated conditions at nearby intersections would be at LOS F (forced flow) or better during AM and PM peak hours. Other improvements to intersections to mitigate impacts associated with the No Build Alternative would need to be addressed in future environmental documents. ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL DOCUMENTATION The proposed project involves the construction of a four-lane roadway. The Circulation Element of the Carlsbad General Plan designates this roadway as a major arterial street. Based on this PEAR, the potential exists for adverse environmental impacts to biological resources, including sensitive species, cultural resources, land use, and visual and scenic resources. Impacts to other environmental resources may become apparent through more detailed environmental analysis. The appropriate level of environmental documentation for the project at this time is regarded as an Environmental Assessment (EA) for the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and an Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Compliance with NEPA is required because federal funding has been requested. The FHWA is Page 8 Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR 04080118 Cannon M Reach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/2005 ;t the Lead Agency for NEPA (with Caltrans acting as their agent providing oversight of the environmental processing and document preparation). The City of Carlsbad is the Lead Agency for CEQA. As the Lead Agency for CEQA and project proponent, the City of Carlsbad would be responsible for providing Caltrans and the FHWA with the reports and technical studies needed to complete the required documentation and approvals under CEQA and NEPA. Compliance would also be required with all other relevant state and federal environmental laws, regulations, and policies. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) issued a Section 10(a) permit to the City of Carlsbad on November 15, 2004 for the Carlsbad Habitat Management Plan (HMP). The permit allows for the incidental take of certain identified species in the proposed project vicinity listed and unlisted as threatened or endangered under the federal Endangered Species Act (ESA) of 1973. As part of the Section 10(a) permit, the USFWS has finalized special terms and conditions for this permit, which are included in the HMP. Many of the permit's conditions pertain specifically to Cannon Road Reach 4. If these conditions are met, potential impacts to threatened or endangered species as a result of the proposed project may be considered less than significant under NEPA. This would presumably result in a determination that an EA is the appropriate documentation. However, the USFWS may disagree with a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI), in which case potential impacts to threatened or endangered species could be considered significant and an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) would be required under NEPA. At this time, preparation of an EA is the appropriate first step for NEPA compliance. The following technical studies are recommended to support a final environmental determination: • Air quality analysis (prepared pursuant to the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) Transportation-Level Carbon Monoxide Protocol, December 1997) • Noise study (prepared pursuant to the Caltrans Traffic Noise Analysis Protocol) • Natural Environment Study (NES) • Biological Assessment • Historic Property Survey Report (HPSR), including an Archaeological Survey Report (ASR) • Visual Impact Assessment (conducted according to Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) Visual Impact Assessment for Highway Projects guidelines) • Initial Site Assessment (i.e., Caltrans Hazardous Materials Study) • Local Hydraulic Study Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR Page 9 04080118 Camion Rd Reach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/2005 • Traffic study • Geotechnical study SUMMARY STATEMENT The appropriate level of environmental documentation for the project has been the subject of discussion at several Project Team meetings. The City of Carlsbad also has environmental review requirements for the project, as it entails public improvements that would require actions and approvals by the City Council. While a definitive determination would be made after review of an Initial Study prepared for the project, the appropriate level of CEQA documentation is almost certainly an EIR. Thus, the actual environmental document publicly circulated would be an EIR/EA or an EIR/EIS. Completion of the Preliminary Environmental Study (PES) form (Appendix A) identified the range of technical studies necessary to support the above environmental documentation. Biological resources in the project vicinity would be documented by the preparation of an NES. The NES requires general biological surveys, as well as focused surveys for a suite of federally listed bird species and several sensitive plants. An ASR and HPSR would be required in order to document cultural resources present within the Area of Potential Effect (APE). A Noise Study Report would be prepared along with Noise Abatement Decision Report (NADR). An Air Quality Technical Study would be required. The project's potential visual impacts would be evaluated in a Visual Impact Assessment prepared in accordance with FHWA procedures. Preparation of a Community Impact Assessment Checklist (Appendix B) resulted in a determination that a Community Impact Analysis would not be required. However, certain community issues such as land use changes associated with the conversion of agricultural lands must be addressed in the NEPA/CEQA document. It is estimated that approximately 18 months will be required for completion of the above technical studies and the EIR/EA. Should an EIS be required for the NEPA component of environmental review, environmental documentation would likely require a minimum of 2 years. Subsequent permits and agreements would likely require an additional 6 months. SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS Project approval and implementation would require compliance with a variety of additional environmentally related federal regulatory processes. Compliance with each of these processes Page 10 Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR 04080118 Cannon RdReach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/2005 must be fulfilled prior to the finalization of NEPA documentation. The regulatory processes stemming from various acts and Executive Orders are discussed below. • Section 4(f) - (Protection of Publicly Owned Park, Recreation Area, Wildlife or Waterfowl Refuge, or Land from Historic Sites) - The Section 4(f) process was established pursuant to the U.S. Department of Transportation Act of 1966 to protect publicly owned parks, recreational areas, wildlife and waterfowl refuges, and lands of a historic site of national, state, or local significance. Section 4(f) requires that an agency demonstrate that there are no prudent or feasible alternatives to the use of such areas. In the case of the Cannon Road Reach 4 project, construction of the proposed roadway would traverse lands that are Open Space Preserves managed by the State of California and would likely require a finding under Section 4(f). • Section 404 of the Clean Water Act - (Protection of Wetlands and Waters of the U.S.) - The Northern and Southern alternatives of the proposed Cannon Road Reach 4 would traverse the mulefat scrub, southern willow scrub, southern arroyo willow riparian woodland, southern coast live oak riparian forest, and cismontane alkali marsh vegetation communities. In addition, the Southern Alternative would traverse an unnamed intermittent tributary. RECON (City of Carlsbad 2001) conducted a wetland determination and delineation of a portion of the current study area and determined that the riparian forest and riparian woodland vegetation communities qualify as wetlands under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE). In addition, for purposes of analysis of the proposed project, a worst-case scenario assumes that the cismontane alkali marsh communities are also ACOE jurisdictional wetlands. Consequently, the proposed project would be subject to regulations protecting wetlands. • Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act - (Protection of Cultural Resources and Historic Properties) - The National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 established a national policy of historic preservation. It established an Advisory Council on Historic Preservation and provided procedures (Section 106) for federal agencies to follow if a proposed action could affect a property that is included, or has been determined to be eligible for inclusion on, the National Register of Historic Places (National Register). It would be necessary for the FHWA to seek the concurrence of the State Historic Preservation Officer concerning the project's avoidance of effects to historic properties listed on, or eligible for listing on, the National Register, for the Cannon Road Reach 4 project. • Endangered Species Act - (Protection of Threatened and Endangered Species) - Take of species listed as Threatened or Endangered by the USFWS is prohibited by Section 9 of the Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR Page 11 1)4080118 Cannon RdReach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/200S ESA. Section 10(a) of the ESA allows "incidental take" of listed species if an approved habitat conservation plan is in effect. The USFWS issued a 10(a) permit to Carlsbad as part of the Carlsbad HMP that was approved in November 2004. The Cannon Road Reach 4 project is included in the approved HMP. Special terms and conditions of the 10(a) permit are included in the HMP. If the special terms and conditions are met, then no additional consultation should be necessary pursuant to Section 7 of the ESA, although this will require future agency confirmation. • Lake and Streambed Alterations - The California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG) is responsible for conserving, protecting, and managing California's fish, wildlife, and native plant resources. To meet this responsibility, the law requires any person, state or local governmental agency, or public utility to notify the CDFG before beginning an activity that will substantially modify a river, stream, or lake. If the CDFG determines that the activity could substantially adversely affect an existing fish and wildlife resource, a Lake or Streambed Alteration Agreement is required. • Clean Air Act - As the implementation of any of the three alternatives would involve expenditure of federal funds, it would be necessary to demonstrate project conformance with the State Implementation Plan (SIP). The purpose of the SIP is to attain and maintain the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS). • Executive Order 11990 - Protection of Wetlands - Any of the three alternatives for the Cannon Road Reach 4 project would involve construction in wetlands. It would be necessary for the FHWA Administrator to make a finding that (1) there is no practicable alternative to construction; and (2) that the proposed action includes all practicable measures to minimize impacts to wetlands resulting from such use. • Executive Order 12898 - Environmental Justice - This Executive Order emphasizes the intent of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. For the Cannon Road Reach 4 project, it would require that the FHWA ensure that the implemented project would not have the effect of (1) excluding persons and populations from participation; (2) denying persons and populations the benefits of federal programs; or (3) subjecting persons and populations to discrimination because of race, color, or national origin. • Executive Order 13112 - Invasive Plant Species - This Executive Order directs federal agencies to expand and coordinate efforts to prevent the introduction and spread of non- native plants and animals. It would be necessary in all phases of environmental Page 12 Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR 04080118 Cannon RdReach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/2005 documentation, project design, and project construction to ensure that FHWA guidance regarding the implementation of this Executive Order is put into effect. MITIGATION Potential mitigation measures (outside of standard specifications or protocols) that may be required as a result of further environmental documentation concerning the impacts are listed below: • Noise - installation of noise abatement barriers near residential areas. • Biological resources - avoidance of breeding and nesting seasons for sensitive bird species, restoration of disturbed displaced habitat, avoidance of indirect effects such as the use of night lighting that would increase predation on native bird species within the study area. • Cultural Resources - excavation of potentially impacted archaeological resources; resource evaluation for potential National Register eligibility. • Paleontology - Paleontological Resources Impact Mitigation Program (PRIMP) preparation and implementation. • Wetlands - restoration of impacted areas and replacement of displaced wetlands. • Visual - potential aesthetic treatments of project hardscape. PERMITS On November 15, 2004, the USFWS issued the City of Carlsbad a Section 10(a) permit approving the City's HMP. The permit allows for the incidental take of species listed as threatened or endangered under the federal ESA. As part of the Section 10(a) Permit, the USFWS has finalized special terms and conditions for this permit, which are included in the HMP. Issuance and compliance with a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit from the Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB) (including developing and implementing a Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan with best management practices) will be required for all of the alternatives to reduce or avoid indirect impacts associated with construction-generated fugitive dust, erosion, sedimentation and runoff and post-construction storm water runoff. Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR Page 13 040SOII8 Cannon RdReach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/200! The CDFG is responsible for conserving, protecting, and managing California's fish, wildlife, and native plant resources. To meet this responsibility, the law requires any person, state or local governmental agency, or public utility to notify the CDFG before beginning an activity that will substantially modify a river, stream, or lake. If the CDFG determines that the activity could substantially adversely affect an existing fish and wildlife resource, a Lake or Streambed Alteration Agreement is required. DISCLAIMER This report is not an environmental document. Preliminary analysis, determinations, and conclusions provided are approximate and are based on cursory analysis of probable effects on the project description provided in this report. The purpose of this report is to provide a preliminary level of environmental analysis to supplement a Project Study Report. Changes in the project scope, alternatives, or environmental laws will require reevaluation of this report and would be addressed in the EIR/EA. DISCUSSION OF TECHNICAL REVIEW Methodology Review of Previous Documents The need for the proposed project area was identified as part of the Carlsbad General Plan Circulation Element. The Carlsbad General Plan last underwent a comprehensive update in 2003. To support growth and development within Carlsbad, the General Plan identifies the infrastructure improvements necessary to maintain adequate service levels to existing and future residents and businesses. As a component of this infrastructure planning, the General Plan Circulation Element establishes an ultimate transportation system configuration intended to accommodate the city's future transportation demands under build-out conditions. The construction of Cannon Road Reach 4 is included in the General Plan Circulation Element. In addition to review of the Carlsbad General Plan, record searches were solicited regarding the presence of biological resources, cultural resources, and hazardous materials in the project vicinity. Page 14 Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR 040801 IS Cannon Rd Reach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/2005 SUMMARY CHECKLIST Environmental Technical Reports or Studies Required Study Community Impact Study Farmland Section 4(f) Evaluation Visual Resources Water Quality Floodplain Evaluation Noise Study Air Quality Study Paleontology Wild and Scenic River Consistency Cumulative Impacts Cultural ASR HSR HASR HPSR Section 106/SHPO Native American Coordination Other: (dependent on if cultural resource sites are found within the project area) Finding of Effect Data Recovery Plan Hazardous Waste ISA (Additional) PSI Other: ADL. UST. and Pesticide Testing Biological Endangered Species (Federal) Endangered Species (State) Species of Concern (CNPS, USFS, BLM, S, F) Biological Assessment (USFWS, NMFS, State) Wetlands Invasive Species Natural Environment Study NEPA 404 Coordination Other: Permits 401 Permit Coordination 404 Permit Coordination 1601 Permit Coordination City/County Coastal Permit Coordination State Coastal Permit Coordination NPDES Coordination US Coast Guard (Section 10) Document • • • N/A • • Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR 04080118 Cannon Rd Reach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/2005 Page 15 Environmental Issue Analysis The Final EIR for the Calavera Hills Master Plan Phase II, Bridge and Thoroughfare District No. 4, and Detention Basins; the final EIR for the Cantarini/Holly Springs Developments; along with field surveys conducted by EDAW staff, form the basis for this PEAR. Environmental topics are discussed below in the order presented by the above Summary Checklist. Existing conditions are briefly described and potential impacts resulting from the Cannon Road Reach 4 project are preliminarily identified. Recommendations, where applicable, are made regarding more detailed studies that should be completed for eventual compliance with the provisions of NEPA, CEQA, and other relevant federal and state environmental laws, regulations, and policies. Community Impact / Socioeconomics An FHWA Community Impact Assessment Checklist has been prepared per Executive Order 12898. Based on a review of this documentation, it was determined that the project would likely have no significant impacts to the community; a discrete Community Impact Assessment is therefore considered unnecessary. The Community Impact Assessment Checklist is included with this document as Appendix B. Socioeconomics The proposed project site is adjacent to several residential areas, recreational/open space areas, and a limited number of commercial developments within Carlsbad. From a regional viewpoint, the proposed project is located in an area that has experienced recent residential development (Calavera Hills). San Diego, the largest urban area in the region, is approximately 56 kilometers (35 miles) south of the proposed project site. Potential construction-related impacts would be mainly associated with the short-term infusion of people, employment, and money into the surrounding communities due to the proposed project, specifically, the extent of employment created; the influx of workers into the local economy; and the availability and adequacy of accommodations, public services, and other facilities to accommodate their presence. The majority of construction-related positions that would be created due to construction of the proposed project are expected to be filled by local workers. However, in relation to the unemployed proportions of the surrounding populations and the temporary nature of the employment, such impacts are anticipated to be relatively minor. It is anticipated that the proposed project would cause a minimal, but positive impact to local unemployment levels during the construction period. While positive, the impacts from spending Page 16 Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR 04080118 Cannon RdReach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/2005 generated by construction workers would be relatively minor. Significant in-migration of construction workers would not be anticipated. It is likely that local contractors and firms would be procured to supply materials and/or services for the proposed project. This is anticipated to represent another incrementally positive economic benefit to the local economy. It is not anticipated that the operation and maintenance of the proposed project would entail the creation of a significant number of permanent positions and would not impact local employment conditions. No displacement of populations or housing would occur due to the proposed project. Portions of the New Venture Christian Fellowship Church parking area in Oceanside may be displaced as a result of the proposed project, however, depending on the alternative selected. Land Use The proposed project site is located in the city of Carlsbad. Carlsbad is bounded by Oceanside on the north and the northeast, Vista on the northeast, Encinitas on the south, and the Pacific Ocean on the west. Existing land uses at the proposed project area include the Calavera Hills residential area to the west and northwest, residential units along the hillside to the east within Oceanside, and the Rancho Carlsbad Mobile Home Park to the southwest. The southwest portion of the proposed project site is currently designated as Open Space in the City's General Plan and is currently used for extensive agriculture. Several structures associated with the extensive agriculture are also located in this vicinity. The preservation of agricultural lands is addressed in the Carlsbad General Plan, Open Space Element. The plan strives to support agricultural activities while planning for the transition to urban uses consistent with policies of the Land Use Element of the General Plan. Each alternative of the proposed Cannon Road Reach 4 would traverse lands owned by the State of California and managed as the Carlsbad Highlands Conservation Bank. A dedicated easement, known as the "Cannon Road Easement," has been established within the Carlsbad Highlands Conservation Bank area, and may serve as an alignment for the future Cannon Road. Construction of Cannon Road within this easement is subject to the conditions set forth in the Carlsbad Highlands Conservation Bank Implementation Agreement of April 1, 1995. The Northern and Central alternatives would also traverse lands owned by Paul K. TR Tchang (Tchang Parcel). The Central and Southern alternatives could traverse lands owned by the Rancho Carlsbad Owners Association. State-owned lands and the Tchang Parcel are currently designated as Open Space by the Carlsbad General Plan. Portions of these lands have been designated as an Existing Hardline Conservation Area or Proposed Hardline Conservation Area by the HMP. Lands owned by the Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR Page 17 040S0118 Cannon Rd Reach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/2005 Rancho Carlsbad Owners Association are currently designated as residential by the Carlsbad General Plan. Portions of these lands have also been designated as Standard Areas by the HMP. Existing Hardline Areas are those that have been conserved for their wildlife value due to previous actions. Examples include on-site open space required to be set aside as part of approval of a development project and areas that have been purchased and set aside as mitigation for project impacts (City of Carlsbad 2004a). When Existing Hardline Areas are potentially removed or reconfigured such that there is a decrease in acreage and/or habitat quality, an amendment to the HMP subject to USFWS and CDFG review is required. However, because Cannon Road Reach 4 was previously considered in the HMP, which includes a 10(a) permit, implementation of the Proposed Project may require additional consultation with USFWS and CDFG. An amendment to the HMP is not anticipated. Proposed Hardline Conservation Areas are those whose conservation and development have been planned as part of the HMP. Development in these areas that substantially conform to the HMP are automatically permitted under the HMP. Standard Areas are those areas comprising some key properties within the city of Carlsbad that have not submitted proposed hardline designs for inclusion in the preserve system at this time. These areas are arranged according to Local Facility Management Zones (LFMZs); 25 LFMZs are within Carlsbad. The HMP includes specific conservation goals and standards for each LFMZ. These conservation goals and standards do not apply to areas considered Existing Hardline Areas, Proposed Hardline Areas, existing take authorization areas (i.e., areas issued a 10(a) permit), or areas designated as development in the HMP. Figure 4 shows the HMP conservation areas. The Carlsbad General Plan has designated portions of the proposed project site for future residential development, including the Cantarini/Holly Spring Developments. Both of these developments are slated for Low-Medium Density Residential (RLM) uses (RLM-0-4 dwelling units per acre). RLM housing anticipates the development of urban medium-density residential areas characterized usually by single-family and planned residential developments (0-4 dwellings per acre). A variety of housing types are permissible as long as the overall density does not exceed 4 dwelling units per acre. The current Cantarini/Holly Springs design plans for the development of approximately 228 units. At the time of this report, the Cantarini/Holly Springs Developments are pending and under review. Page 18 Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR 040S011S Cannon RdReach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/2005 I I I I I Northern Alternative Central Alternative '5 Southern Alternative > Overpass Habitat Management Plan Areas Development Areas Existing Hardline Conservation Areas Not a Part Proposed Hardline Conservation Areas Proposed Standard Areas NOT A PART Source: Eagle Aerial, Nov 2003; RBF Engineering, 2005 600 300 0 600 Feet Scale: 1:7,200; 1 inch = 600 feet Figure 4 Conservation Areas Cannon Road Reach 4 Study Area Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR 2004\04080118 Carlsbad Cannon RJ Environmental S\'cs\5GlS\M.fd\C<mser\'ationareas_I1x17.mxd SPS3/Z6 1/25/05 Farmland Each alternative of the proposed Cannon Road Reach 4 would traverse farmland located to the southwest. Three soil types have been identified within the proposed project's vicinity: CnE2 (Cieneba-Fallbrook rocky sandy loams); HrD (Huerhuero loam); and B1C2 (Bonsall sandy loam) (City of Carlsbad 2001). All three of these soil types have a relatively low suitability for agricultural production. The U.S. Department of Agriculture groups soils into Capability Classes based on their suitability to cultivate various types of field crops. The Capability Classes range from I to VIII with Class I being the most suitable for agricultural production. The three soil types identified at the proposed project site have capability classes of IV, VI, and IV respectively. A small portion of Robertson's Ranch, a group of fields used to grow tomatoes, is located to the southwest of the proposed project site. Construction of the Cannon Road Reach 4 would not significantly impact agriculture because the roadway is already approved in the Carlsbad General Plan Circulation Element. In addition, none of the farmland in the proposed project vicinity is considered prime farmland or farmland of local importance. Section 4(f) Evaluation Section 4(f) of the Department of Transportation Act of 1966, codified in federal law at 49 U.S.C. §303, declares that: "[it]t is the policy of the United States Government that special effort should be made to preserve the natural beauty of the countryside and public park and recreation lands, wildlife and waterfowl refuges, and historic sites." Section 4(f) specifies that the Secretary [of Transportation] "may approve a transportation program or project... requiring the use of publicly owned land of a public park, recreation area, or wildlife and waterfowl refuge of national, State, or local significance, or land of an historic site of national, State, or local significance (as determined by the Federal, State, or local officials having jurisdiction over the park, area, refuge, or site) only if: 1. there is no prudent and feasible alternative to using that land; and 2. the program or project includes all possible planning to minimize harm to the park, recreation area, wildlife and waterfowl refuge, or historic site resulting from the use." Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR Page 21 04080118 Cannon Rd Reach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/2005 In general, a Section 4(f) "use" occurs with a U.S. Department of Transportation-approved project or program when (1) Section 4(f) land is permanently incorporated into a transportation facility; (2) when there is a temporary occupancy of Section 4(f) land that is adverse in terms of the Section 4(f) preservationist purposes as determined by specified criteria (23 CFR §771.135[p][7]); and (3) when Section 4(f) land is not incorporated into the transportation project, but the project's proximity impacts are so severe that the protected activities, features, or attributes that qualify a resource for protection under Section 4(f) are substantially impaired (constructive use) (23 CFR §§771.135[p][l] and [2]). The purpose of this discussion is to address Section 4(f) requirements relative to park, recreational facilities, wildlife refuges, and historical properties in the project vicinity. The proposed Cannon Road Reach 4 would traverse lands that are currently designated as Existing Hardline Conservation Area by the City's HMP. Existing Hardline Areas are considered Open Space lands in that these areas are required to be set aside as part of approval of a development project and/or these areas have been purchased and set aside as mitigation for project impacts. In the case of the proposed project, these lands may be considered wildlife refuges because the State of California has purchased these lands for use as a biological mitigation bank. As such, the FHWA may determine that these lands are subject to Section 4(f). Impacts to Section 4(f) resources would require preparation of a Section 4(f) Evaluation. During the environmental study phase, the FHWA would determine if impacts to the State of California biological mitigation bank or other resources protected under Section 4(f) would occur, and the level of documentation required to comply with FHWA provisions. Visual Resources The proposed project site is surrounded by land that is disturbed and is being used for agriculture, as well as lands that have been designated as Low-Medium Density Residential (RLM) and Open Space (OS) by the Carlsbad General Plan. Agricultural lands make up the majority of the western portion of the proposed project site. The eastern portion contains a mixture of agricultural lands and native vegetation types, including freshwater marsh, alkali marsh, grassland, riparian scrub, and southern willow scrub (City of Carlsbad 2004b). Developed properties in the proposed project area vicinity include the Calavera Hills residential structures to the northwest, residential structures within Oceanside to the east, and several buildings associated with agricultural procedures to the southwest. The proposed Cannon Road Reach 4 would traverse agricultural lands, currently undeveloped properties, and portions of properties owned by the State of California. The State of California has designated these properties as biological mitigation bank lands, which are to remain Open Space lands. Page 22 Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR 04080118 Cannon RdReacli4PEARrev.doc 3/16/2005 Portions of Cannon Road Reach 4 would be visible from El Camino Real, which is located approximately 3,000 feet west of the proposed project area. El Camino Real has been designated a First Priority Scenic Route in the San Diego County General Plan, and Community Theme Corridor in the Carlsbad General Plan. El Camino Real was designated a First Priority Scenic Route because it meets two or more of the following criteria listed in Appendix A of the San Diego County General Plan of 1975 and 1986 amendments: • Routes traversing and providing access to major recreation, scenic, or historic resources; • Routes traversing lands under the jurisdiction of public agencies; • Routes supported by significant local community interest; or • Routes offering unique opportunities for the protection and enhancement of scenic recreational and historical resources. Resources visible from El Camino Real include lagoons, open space, backcountry, and urban activity. The Carlsbad General Plan characterizes Community Theme Corridors as roadways that "connect Carlsbad with adjacent municipalities and present the City of Carlsbad to persons entering and passing through the community" (City of Carlsbad 1994). The goals to preserve and enhance the visual quality of El Camino Real include: • Approve projects adjacent to El Camino Real only if the proposed project is consistent with the El Camino Real Corridor Development Standards. • Enhance the historical heritage of the street by creating a "California-Spanish-Mission" theme for the corridor. • Enhance the visual quality of the street by encouraging the theme-oriented landscaping and street furniture within the corridor. • Emphasize the theme along the corridor by using predominant theme trees throughout the length of the corridor. • Create identifiable and visually pleasing intersections at points where scenic corridors cross. • Emphasize the importance of the El Camino Real Corridor Development Standards. • Encourage special landscape setbacks. Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR Page 23 04080118 Cannon Rd Reach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/2005 •as? The degree of impact from the proposed project would be determined following the preparation of a comprehensive visual impact assessment conducted pursuant to FHWA's Visual Impact Assessment for Highway Projects and other related guidance. In the visual impact assessment, the project viewshed will be delineated, landscape units will be determined, key views will be identified, and sensitive viewers will be described. Potential impacts of each of the alternatives would be determined based on the degree and type of alteration of the existing and planned visual environment, and the possible effects on sensitive viewers. Mitigation measures, if necessary, would be addressed in the assessment. Water Quality The proposed project site is located in the San Diego Hydrologic Region (SDHR) as identified by RWQCB. The SDHR, approximately 3 million acres in size, generally flows west towards the Pacific Ocean and consists of 11 smaller hydrologic units. The proposed project site is within the Carlsbad Hydrologic Unit (CHU). The CHU is approximately 210 square miles (134,400 acres) in area extending from the headwaters above Lake Wohlford in the east to the Pacific Ocean in the west, and from Vista and Oceanside in the north to Solana Beach, Escondido, and the community of Rancho Santa Fe to the south (Project Clean Water 2003). The CHU is divided into six smaller hydrologic areas. Specifically, the proposed project site is within the Aqua Hedionda Hydrologic Area, which encompasses approximately 28 square miles. The Agua Hedionda Hydrologic Area includes Calavera Creek and associated minor streams, and Agua Hedionda Creek, which flows into Agua Hedionda Lagoon located west of the proposed project area. Although the proposed project site is not located within a groundwater basin, the RWQCB has identified various beneficial uses for the Agua Hedionda Hydrologic Area. The RWQCB Water Quality Plan for the SDHR characterizes beneficial uses as: Uses necessary for the survival or well being of man, plants, and wildlife. These uses of water serve to promote the tangible and intangible economic, social and environmental goals of mankind. Examples include drinking, swimming, industrial and agricultural water supply, and the support of fresh and saline aquatic habitats. The RWQCB developed a uniform list and description of beneficial uses in 1972 and updated the list in 1994. Currently, the main pollutant affecting the Agua Hedionda Hydrologic Area is total dissolved solids (TDS) from general existing runoff conditions [2002 Clear Water Act Section 303(d)] Page 24 Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR 04080118 Cannon Rd Reach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/2005 (City of Carlsbad 2004b). TDS may consist of carbonates, bicarbonates, chlorides, sulfates, phosphates, nitrates, magnesium, sodium, iron, manganese, and other substances. High TDS concentrations have the potential to damage plants due to adverse effects on soil permeability. The Agua Hedionda Lagoon and estuary have a medium priority status for bacteria indicators and sedimentation/siltation [2002 Clean Water Act Section 303(d)]. The main concerns associated with excess sedimentation/siltation are abrasion of the surface membranes of aquatic organisms; interference with the respiration of aquatic organisms; interference with sensory perception of aquatic fauna; and a reduction of light penetration, which reduces the ability for photosynthesis in and survival of aquatic flora (City of Carlsbad 2004b). Bacteria indicators can be hazardous to human health through direct contact with polluted water, or through the harvesting of organisms for consumption from polluted waters. Lagoons are susceptible to the build-up of bacteria indicators because they are slow moving and have a low mixing potential. Surface water runoff would be prevented through compliance with the requirements of the San Diego NPDES permit, and the City of Carlsbad Standard Urban Storm Water Runoff Mitigation Plan. Noise The Community Noise Equivalent Level (CNEL) is a 24-hour A-weighted average sound level [(dB(A) Leq] from midnight to midnight obtained after the addition of 5 decibels (dB) to sound levels occurring between the hours of 7:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m., and the addition of 10 dB to sound levels occurring between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. (City of Carlsbad 2001). The addition of 5 dB and 10 dB to the evening and nighttime hours, respectively, accounts for increased human sensitivity to noise during these time periods. For community noise related to land use, the City of Carlsbad General Plan addresses noise in terms of residential and nonresidential land uses. The City of Carlsbad General Plan states that 60 dB(A) CNEL is the exterior noise level to which all residential units should be mitigated, and 45 db(A) is the interior level to which all residential units should be mitigated when openings to the residence are opened or closed. In addition, 65 dB(A) CNEL is the maximum acceptable noise level for residential units subject to noise from McClellan Palomar Airport. Noise levels generated by the proposed project are estimated from the noise exposure map in the City of Carlsbad General Plan, which accounts for the future Cannon Road Reach 4. The map shows db CNEL contours, with values of 60 dB(A) CNEL near the future Cannon Road Reach 4 and 65, 70, 75, and 80 dB(A) CNEL at farther distances from the vicinity of the proposed Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR Page 25 04080118 Cannon Rd Reach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/2005 project. However, the General Plan states that the 70, 75, and 80 dB(A) contour lines only represent aircraft noise from McClellan Palomar Airport. The map shows generalized noise contours and does not account for noise reduction due to topographical barriers or man-made structures. The General Plan states: "While other routes within the City have a lesser impact than does 1-5, many roads will still have significant noise impact potential and new projects should therefore be subject to noise impact evaluation." Based on this, potential impacts to the proposed Cantarini/Holly Springs Developments may occur as a result of the Central Alternative and Southern Alternative. Residential units and the New Venture Christian Fellowship Church within the city of Oceanside are adjacent to the eastern portion of the proposed project site. Potential impacts to the residential units and the church may occur as a result of implementing any of the three alternatives. Noise level standards in Oceanside are expressed in terms of the day-night average sound level (Ldn). The Ljn is a 24-hour weighted average sound level from midnight to midnight similar to the CNEL in that 10 dB is added to sound levels occurring between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m., but different in that no modifications are made to sound levels occurring between 7:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. The General Plan enacted by the City of Oceanside in 1974 establishes a maximum noise level standard for residential use areas of 65 dB(A) Lan. The City of Oceanside General Plan does not specify exterior noise level standards for churches. Potential noise impacts to sensitive wildlife species are detailed in the Biological Resources section of this document. According to Caltrans, a traffic noise impact will occur "when predicted noise levels associated with a project approach within 1 dBA or exceed" the Noise Abatement Criteria (NAC). For example, exterior noises at residences and recreation areas have a NAC of 67 dBA Leq. Therefore, an impact would occur when traffic noise is 66 dBA Leq or greater. A noise increase is substantial "when the predicted noise levels associated with the project exceed existing noise levels by 12 dBA, Leq(h)" (Caltrans 1998). The FHWA and the U.S. Department of Transportation standards are based on the average noise level (Leq) for the noisiest hour of the day. For federally funded Type I projects, an impact is defined, and noise abatement measures must be considered where noise levels approach or exceed the NAC. For residential and parkland areas, the NAC is 67 dBA Leq; for commercial land use, the NAC is 72 dBA Leq; and for churches the NAC 52 dBA Leq. If construction of the proposed project does not include pile driving, daytime construction noise would not likely exceed traffic noise. If construction of the project includes pile driving, or if it Page 26 Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR 040801 IS Cannon Kd Reach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/2005 is determined that construction should occur during the nighttime hours, the potential for adverse noise impact is increased. If noise abatement is necessary, measures could include revised scheduling of certain activities, notification of affected parties, temporary noise barriers at the work site or the receptors, or other actions. A noise study must be prepared in accordance with Caltrans' Traffic Noise Analysis Protocol (the Protocol), and Technical Noise Supplement (TeNS) (Caltrans 1998). The Protocol contains the Department's noise policies, which fulfill the highway noise analysis and abatement/mitigation requirements stemming from state and federal environmental statutes, including 23 CFR Part 772, Procedures for Abatement of Highway Traffic Noise and Construction Noise, NEPA, and CEQA. TeNS is a supplement to the Protocol and contains Caltrans noise analysis procedures and practices. The noise analysis report identifies a range of abatement alternatives, and whether abatement is feasible. The feasibility of a noise abatement measure is defined as an engineering consideration. A minimum 5-dBA noise reduction must be achieved at the affected receivers for the proposed noise abatement measure to be considered feasible. The ability to achieve an adequate noise reduction may be limited by topography, access requirements for driveways and ramps, the presence of local cross streets, other noise sources in the area, and safety considerations. Noise abatement usually must also be "reasonable" to be considered. The determination of reasonableness of noise abatement is considered more subjective than the feasibility criterion. This determination typically requires common sense and good judgment in arriving at a decision to construct noise abatement measures. Noise abatement is only considered where noise impacts are predicted and where frequent human use occurs and a lowered noise level would be of benefit. Subsequently, an NADR would be prepared by the project engineer, in conjunction with the noise engineer (env consultant). The NADR would include the calculated costs of the abatement alternatives and other reasonableness factors. Based on those factors, abatement recommendations are made. If abatement on private property is recommended, the NADR would include results and documentation of public outreach to the affected property owners. Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR Page 27 04080118 Cannon RdReach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/2005 Air Quality Climate The proposed project area is located in the San Diego Air Basin (SDAB), which is contiguous with San Diego County. The SDAB's climate is controlled by the strength and location of a semipermanent, subtropical high-pressure cell over the Pacific Ocean. Climate conditions are characterized by dry and warm summers, mild and occasionally wet winters, moderate daytime onshore breezes, and moderate humidities. In San Diego County, the months of heaviest precipitation are November through April, averaging about 9 to 14 inches annually. The mean temperature is 62.2 degrees Fahrenheit (°F), and the mean maximum and mean minimum temperatures are 75.7°F and 48.5°F, respectively. A common atmospheric condition known as a temperature inversion affects air quality in San Diego. During an inversion, air temperatures get warmer rather than cooler with increasing height. Subsidence inversions occur during the warmer months (May through October) as descending air associated with the Pacific high-pressure cell comes into contact with cool marine air. The boundary between the layers of air represents a temperature inversion that traps pollutants below it. The inversion layer is approximately 2,000 feet amsl during the months of May through October. During the winter months (November through April), the temperature inversion is approximately 3,000 feet amsl. Inversion layers are important elements of local air quality because they inhibit the dispersion of pollutants, thus resulting in a temporary degradation of air quality. Prevailing westerly wind patterns are occasionally interrupted by regional "Santa Ana" conditions. These conditions occur when a strong high-pressure cell develops over the Nevada- Utah area and overcomes the prevailing western winds, sending strong, steady, hot, dry northwesterly winds over the mountains and out to sea. The strong Santa Ana winds tend to direct pollutants over the ocean, producing clear days. When these conditions break down, or, if Santa Ana winds are weak, local air quality may be adversely affected. In these scenarios, emissions from the SDAB to the north are directed over the Pacific Ocean, and low pressure over Baja California draws air pollutants southward. As the high pressure weakens, then prevailing northwesterly winds reassert themselves and send air pollutants ashore in the SDAB. When this occurs, the combination of local and transported air pollutants produce the worst air quality conditions in the basin. Page 28 Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR 04080118 Cannon Rd Reach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/2005 Regulatory Framework Air quality in the SDAB is controlled by federal, state, and regional authorities. The federal Clean Air Act (CAA) was enacted in 1970 and amended in 1977 and 1990 [42 U.S.C. 7506(c) in an effort to protect and enhance national air quality, as well as promote the health, safety, and welfare of the public. At the state level, the Lewis-Presley Air Quality Management Act of 1976 (amended in 1987) and the California Clean Air Act (CCAA) of 1986 set air quality planning and regulatory responsibilities for the SDAB. The California Air Resources Board (CARB) is responsible for coordinating efforts to attain and maintain ambient air quality standards, as well as conducting research into the causes and solutions of air pollution. At the regional level, the San Diego County Air Pollution Control District (APCD) is charged with preparing and amending their Regional Air Quality Strategy (RAQS), which contains strategies to meet state requirements via California's SIP, as well as federal requirements. Federal Regulations In 1971 the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) developed primary and secondary NAAQS for the following criteria pollutants: carbon monoxide (CO), ozone (Os), sulfur dioxide (862), nitrogen dioxide (NOa), inhalable particulate matter (PMio), fine particulate matter (PM2.s), and lead (Pb). The primary NAAQS must "protect public health with an ample margin of safety" and the secondary standards must "protect the public welfare from known or anticipated adverse effects" (Federal CAA 1990: Section 109). Areas are classified under the CAA as either "attainment" or "nonattainment" areas for each criteria pollutant based on whether the standard has been achieved. State Regulations The CCAA, amended in 1992, requires that all state air districts implement strategies to achieve and maintain state ambient air quality standards for CO, Os, SO2, NO2, PMio, PM2.5, and Pb (Criteria Pollutants). California ambient air quality standards are generally more stringent than the federal NAAQS for the same pollutants. Areas are also classified as attainment or nonattainment under the CCAA. Local/Regional Regulations The CCAA requires areas that have not attained CAAQS for any of the criteria pollutants to prepare plans to attain the standard by the earliest practicable date. The San Diego RAQS have Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR Page 29 040801 IS Camion Rd Reach 4 PEAR rm.doc 3/16/2005 been developed pursuant to CCAA requirements to identify feasible methods to comply with state standards. The San Diego APCD is the agency responsible for developing and implementing the RAQS. The RAQS were initially adopted by the San Diego APCD on June 30, 1992, and amended on March 12, 1993, in response to CARB comments. The district began revising the RAQS triennially on December 12, 1995, with the most recent revisions prepared on July 28, 2004 (APCD 2004). Regional and Local Air Quality Specific geographic areas are classified as either attainment or nonattainment areas for each pollutant based on the comparison of measured data with federal and state standards. If an area is redesignated from nonattainment to attainment, the CAA requires a revision to the SIP, called a maintenance plan, to demonstrate how the air quality standard will be maintained for at least 10 years. The SDAB currently meets the federal standards for all criteria pollutants except 63 and meets state standards for all criteria pollutants except 63 and PM2.5. San Diego County completed 3 years within the federal 1-hour 0$ standard on November 15, 2001, becoming eligible for redesignation as an attainment area. Formal redesignation by the USEPA as an 03 attainment area occurred on July 28, 2003, and a maintenance plan was approved. On April 15, 2004, the USEPA issued the initial designations for the 8-hour 63 standard, and the SDAB is classified as "basic" nonattainment. Basic is the least severe of the six degrees of 63 nonattainment. The San Diego APCD must submit an air quality plan to the USEPA in 2007; the plan must demonstrate how the 8-hour O3 standard will be attained by 2009 (APCD 2004). The SDAB is currently classified as a state "serious" 63 nonattainment area and a state nonattainment area for PMio. The SDAB currently falls under a federal "maintenance plan" for CO, following a 1998 redesignation as a CO attainment area. On December 17, 2004, the USEPA issued the initial designations for the PIVb.s standard, and the SDAB was classified as nonattainment. States with nonattainment areas must submit plans by early 2008 that outline how they will meet the PM2.5 standards. They are expected to attain clean air as soon as possible and not later than 2010. USEPA can grant one 5-year extension, to 2015, for areas with more severe problems (USEPA 2004). The 1990 Amendments to the CAA require the USEPA to promulgate rules to ensure that federal actions conform to the appropriate SIP. In November 1993, the U.S. Department of Transportation and the USEPA developed guidance for determining conformity of transportation Page 30 Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR 04080118 Camion Rd Reach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/2005 plans, programs, and projects. This guidance is denoted as the Transportation Conformity Rule (40 CFR §§ 51.390-464 and 40 CFR §§ 93.100-136). Demonstration of conformity is delegated to metropolitan planning organizations. The metropolitan planning organization responsible for the preparation of regional transportation plans and the associated air quality analyses is SANDAG. The regional plans are the Regional Transportation Plan (RTF) and Regional Transportation Improvement Program (RTIP). The proposed project is included in the current RTF and, unless the proposed project is substantially different than what was assumed for the RTF air quality analysis, conformity to the SIP for regional pollutants is presumed. Any new development must also ensure that there would be no localized CO impacts resulting from heavy congestion. The analysis of local CO impact potential will be conducted in accordance with Transportation Project-Level Carbon Monoxide Protocol (UCD ITS 1997). Paleontology RMW Paleo Associates, Inc. (RMW) prepared a paleontological assessment for the proposed project vicinity in June 1991. The study assessed the known and potential paleontological resources within the proposed project area through literature and records, as well as a field survey. These materials indicate that the project area is underlain by the following sedimentary formations, discussed from oldest to youngest. Granite Rock (Cretaceous Epoch). The granite rocks in the proposed project area are approximately 100 million years old. These rocks were formed when molten rock cooled deep within the earth. They are presently exposed due to uplift and erosion associated with the development of the Peninsular Mountain Range. Due to the intrusive formation of these rocks, they typically do not contain fossils. Lusardi Formation (Cretaceous Epoch). This formation consists of sandstones and conglomerates deposited in a shallow sea that covered the region approximately 70 million years ago. Fossils were not encountered in the area during a field study conducted by RMW in June 1991, although this rock unit has a moderate to high potential for containing significant fossils. Santiago Formation (Eocene Epoch). This formation, approximately 35 to 54 million years old, is the youngest bedrock in the proposed project area. This formation has a high potential for containing fossils. There are two recorded occurrences of fossils in the Santiago formation within 1 mile of the proposed project area. Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR Page 31 040801 IS Cannon RJ Reach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/2005 Unnamed River and Stream Deposits (Quaternary Epoch). The Quaternary deposits in the area are undifferentiated deposits of streams and rivers. These deposits have a low to moderate potential for containing fossils. There are no records of fossils within the proposed project site, and no fossils were encountered during the field study. The project must retain a qualified vertebrate paleontologist to develop a PRIMP. The PRIMP must include a field assessment and project-specific measures. The PRIMP must be consistent with guidelines from cities within San Diego County and with guidelines promulgated by the Society of Vertebrate Paleontology. The PRIMP must include, but not necessarily be limited to: • A pre-construction field assessment to locate fossils at surface exposures. Salvage of fossils from known localities, including processing standard samples of matrix for the recovery of small vertebrate fossils, and trackway replication. • Monitoring of excavation by a qualified vertebrate paleontologic monitor to recover paleontological resources. • Preparation of recovered specimens to a point of identification, including washing of sediments to recover small fossil vertebrates. • Identification and curation of specimens into a museum repository with retrievable storage. • Preparation of a report of findings with an appended, itemized inventory of specimens. The report and inventory, when submitted to the Lead Agency, signifies completion of the program to mitigate impacts to paleontological resources. Wild and Scenic River Consistency The project would not impact a Wild and Scenic River. Cultural Resources Cultural resource investigations included archival research. The goal of this effort was to identify whether known cultural resources are present in the project area and would be impacted by the proposed project. EDAW conducted a records search at the South Coastal Information Center at San Diego State University to obtain current survey and cultural resource site distribution data. Site and survey records were requested for resources located within a 1/2-mile radius of the project area. The research also included a historic map review. Information was Page 32 Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR 04080118 Cannon RdReach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/2005 requested for all historic sites over 45 years old and all prehistoric sites. The following inventories were also examined: • National Register • California Historic Landmarks • California Points of Historical Interest No historic architectural resources were identified within a 1/2-mile radius of the proposed project site. The results of the records search revealed that 12 archaeological surveys have been conducted within, or immediately adjacent to, the project area. Prehistoric and historic archaeological sites have been identified within a 1/2-mile radius of the project area. Prehistoric archaeological sites include shell deposits, lithic and tool scatters, groundstone, bedrock milling sites, and metates. The majority of these sites have not been evaluated for the California Register of Historical Resources (California Register) or National Register. Some of the sites have been evaluated; however, none have been recommended eligible for the California Register or the National Register. Historic sites identified include trash pits, concrete foundations, brick stairways, and a farmhouse. None of these historic sites were found to be eligible for the California Register or the National Register. Approximately a third of the area within or immediately adjacent to the project area has not been surveyed. Prior to the preparation of further cultural resource documentation, an APE would be established in consultation with the Caltrans District 11 Heritage Resource Coordinator for review and approval by the FHWA. The entire APE would need to be surveyed for cultural resources, and previously and newly recorded sites would need to be documented. Cultural resource documentation prepared as part of the final environmental documentation for the project would likely consist of an HPSR and an ASR. Cultural resources located within the project APE would be evaluated for their potential eligibility to the California Register and the National Register. Those resources not previously evaluated in connection with adjacent undertakings would need to be evaluated; for archaeological resources, this consists of site investigations. If buildings/structures/objects were identified in the right-of-way that would ultimately have to be acquired to construct the project, then those resources would also have to be evaluated through a Historic Architectural Survey Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR Page 33 04080118 Cannon Rd Reach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/200} Report (HASR) or Historic Resource Evaluation Report (HRER) process. The HPSR may also include archaeological test excavation reports and historic architectural evaluations. Hazardous Waste GeoSoils Inc. (GSI) performed a Phase I Environmental Site Assessment in general conformance with the scope and limitations set forth by the American Society for Testing and Materials in November 2001 (City of Carlsbad 2004b). The Environmental Site Assessment reviews selected government databases for hazards and materials site listings within 1 mile of the proposed project area. The list below summarizes the findings of hazards and hazardous materials associated with the proposed project site: • Based upon historical and current use of portions of the proposed project site for agricultural purposes, there is a potential for the presence of hazardous materials. Certain chemicals (i.e., pesticides) that were once commonplace for agricultural purposes are now considered harmful and have been banned or restricted. Residue from the historic application of certain chemicals may remain near the surface. However, it is unlikely that hazardous concentration levels are present unless chemicals stored were spilled, handled improperly, or illegally disposed of. • There is no evidence of the existence of underground storage tanks (USTs) or above ground storage tanks (ASTs) on the proposed project site. Based on review of agency databases by GSI, there are no listings of permitted USTs or ASTs at the proposed project site. • There were two risk sites identified by the records database search. There is one Leaking Underground Storage Tank (LUST) site located approximately 0.90 mile southwest of the proposed project area. Based on this site's distance from the proposed project area, the fact that this site is located down groundwater gradient from the proposed project area, and the fact the site is listed as "case closed" in agency records, this site is not anticipated to present a significant hazard to the proposed project area. The second identified site is the Narcotics Task Force Laboratory located approximately 1 mile south of the proposed project site. This site is listed as a Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Information (CERCLIS) hazardous waste site currently under review by the USEPA. Based on this site's distance from the proposed project area and its location down groundwater gradient from the proposed project area, it is unlikely that this site would adversely affect the proposed project site. Page 34 Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR 040801 IS Cannon RdReach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/2005 ED AW performed a search for hazardous materials sites within 1 mile of the proposed project area using the Vista database generated by Environmental Database Resources, Inc. (EDR) (Figure 5). EDR refers to federal, state, and local databases to identify sites that generate, store, or transport hazardous materials. The Vista search identified 14 sites within 1 mile of the proposed project site. It should be noted that the results of the Vista search were extracted from year 2001 databases. ED AW was unable to determine the agency databases that listed these sites. The names and addresses of the sites are listed below: • Canterbury, 5175 El Camino Real, Carlsbad, CA 92008 • Dentistry 2000, 3529 Cannon Road, Suite 2G, Oceanside, CA 92056 • Max Cleaners, 3529 Cannon Road, Suite 2F, Oceanside, CA 92056 • Rancho Carlsbad Golf Course, 5200 El Camino Real, Carlsbad, CA 92008 • Sunset Landscape Maintenance, Inc., 4600 Leisure Village Way, Suite B, Oceanside, CA 92056 • City of Oceanside, 4700 1/2 Lake Boulevard, Oceanside, CA 92056 • Henry Gerwig, 1930 Rosewood St., Vista, CA 92083 • Yada Farm, 2980 Valley Street, Carlsbad, CA 92008 • Steindorf Produce, 5003 El Camino Real, Carlsbad, CA 92008 • Shadowridge Orthodontics, 1950 Shadowridge Dr., #A, Vista, CA 92083 • Kato Farm, 3250 Sunny Creek Road, Carlsbad, CA 92008 • Airtouch Cellular, 5220 Sunny Creek Road, Carlsbad, CA 92008 • Carlsbad Municipal Water District, 5208 Sunny Creek Road, Carlsbad, CA 92008 • Maerkle Dam Chlorination Station, 5203 Sunny Creek Road, Carlsbad, CA 92008 ED AW performed a site reconnaissance at the proposed project site on November 17, 2004. The site reconnaissance was performed to assess the presence of hazardous materials on the proposed project site. ED AW observed minor amounts of localized trash/debris throughout the proposed project site. The debris included glass bottles, rubber products, and used lumber in the southwestern portion of the proposed project area. In addition, ED AW observed Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR Page 35 040801 IS Cannon Rd Reach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/2005 wrecked/abandoned automobiles and associated parts as well as abandoned farm equipment in the southwestern portion of the proposed project area. Due to use of portions of the proposed project site for agricultural purposes, it is possible buried/concealed/hidden tanks as well as agricultural by-products exist below and above the ground that were not identified during EDAW's site reconnaissance. Since the proposed project would not involve the demolition of any buildings, an asbestos survey by Caltrans' Hazardous Waste Section would not be required. Additional research would be required to determine whether pesticide use in the agricultural fields would pose a hazardous concern due to portions of each alternative that would traverse existing agricultural lands. Pesticide testing would be conducted, and the results would be incorporated into the impact analysis contained in the NEPA/CEQA document. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES Existing Conditions Methodology On November 17, 2004, ED AW biologists Barbra Calantas and John Messina conducted a brief reconnaissance survey of the Cannon Road Reach 4 study area to document any changes in existing biological conditions since the previous surveys. Surveys were conducted on-foot along existing dirt roads and trails. Vegetation was mapped on a color aerial photograph (1"-200' scale). Several of the parcels (i.e., Holly Springs, Tchang Parcel, and some of the State of California parcels) were not surveyed due to access issues. For these parcels, data were compiled from existing sources, as described below. Focused surveys for rare plants and USFWS protocol level surveys for endangered wildlife were not conducted. However, any sensitive plant or animal species observed during the course of the survey were documented and mapped on the aerial photograph as well. In addition, floral and faunal inventories were compiled; however, as the survey route was restricted to existing trails, these inventories are not comprehensive. Detected wildlife included those directly observed and those indirectly observed through evidence of tracks and scat. In addition, given the seasonal timing of the survey, spring ephemeral plant species and spring migratory bird species, both common and sensitive species, would not have been detectable at this time. Ephemeral vegetation communities such as the seasonal cismontane alkali marsh would also not have been observable due to the timing of the survey. Page 36 Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR 04080118 Cannon Rd Reach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/2005 I i i i • N. -J '-1fpa«SS'?%•,- ••?T'4^f,1' — -' •" LANDSCAPE MAINT INC )•ISURE VILLAGE WY #B ^OCEANSIDE RANCHO CARLSBAD GOLF.COURSE . 5200 EL CAMINO REAL ' :'•.*. 'CARLSBAD Legend Northern Alternative | | Central Alternative Southern Alternative ^J1 Mile Buffer Area Hazardous Site Source: USGS; Encinitas Quad, Rancho Sante Fe Quad; Vista Info 2001. 3,000 1,500 0 3,000 Feet Scale: 1 : 36,000; 1 inch = 3,000 feet Figure 5 Hazardous Site VISTA Data Search Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR P/2004/n40SOl IS Carlsbad Cannon RJ Environmental Svcs/iGIS/Mxd/hazinal.mxu SP83fZ6 (pm) 1/25/05 This page intentionally left blank. Page 38 Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR 04080118 Cannon Ril Reach 4 PEAR nr.Joc 3/16/2005 Data from existing documents are also used in this report, especially for the previously mentioned parcels that were not surveyed. Previous surveys of the Cannon Road extension were conducted by RECON in 1999 and 2000 as part of the Final EIRfor the Calavera Hills Master Plan Phase II, Bridge and Thoroughfare District No. 4, and Detention Basins (City of Carlsbad 2001). A formal wetland determination and delineation was conducted in 1999 and 2000 (City of Carlsbad 2001). The Holly Springs parcels were surveyed by RECON (circa 2002) and data from these surveys are included in the Final EIRfor the Cantarini/Holly Springs Developments (City of Carlsbad 2004b). Additionally, a search within the CDFG's California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB) for sensitive species records within the project area was completed. Lastly, the Multiple Habitat Conservation Plan (MHCP) Vegetation Communities with Sensitive Species and Vernal Pool San Luis Rey quad map (SANDAG n.d.) was used to assess resources on lands not previously surveyed and where access was restricted. Vegetation The vegetation community classification used within this section follows that of Oberbauer (1996). Botanical nomenclature follows that of Hickman (1993). In some instances this classification has been slightly modified to accurately describe the communities within the study area. In several instances, there were some minor discrepancies between the existing vegetation and the previously mapped vegetation. The majority of these discrepancies are attributable to changes in land use patterns either from habitat conversion from native habitat to agricultural use or from the natural succession following cessation of agricultural/grazing practices where coastal sage scrub species are invading grassland and disturbed lands areas. Thirteen vegetation communities were observed within the study area surveyed by EDAW: Diegan coastal sage scrub, Diegan coastal sage scrub/non-native grassland ecotone, southern mixed chaparral, southern coast live oak riparian forest, southern arroyo willow riparian woodland, sycamore riparian woodland, southern willow scrub, mulefat scrub, riparian scrub, non-native grassland, eucalyptus woodland, agriculture, and disturbed lands. RECON (City of Carlsbad 2001) mapped an additional five communities: disturbed Diegan coastal sage scrub, native grassland, cismontane alkali marsh, seasonal cismontane alkali marsh, and freshwater marsh. In addition, areas of permanent structures are mapped as developed. Below is a brief description of these communities. Figure 6 depicts the vegetation communities within the study area. Table 1 summarizes the acreage of the vegetation communities within the study area and within each alternative. Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR Page 39 04080118 Cannon Rd Reach 4 FEAR rev.doc 3/16/2005 Table 1 Vegetation Communities within the Study Area and the Three Alternatives Vegetation Type Study Area Northern Alternative Central Alternative Southern Alternative Uplands Diegan coastal sage scrub Diegan coastal sage scrub (disturbed) Diegan coastal sage scrub (disturbed)/non- native grassland ecotone Southern mixed chaparral Native grassland Non-native grassland Eucalyptus woodland Agricultural 264.07 4.12 19.07 38.72 10.14 73.51 1.21 54.25 16.94 0 0.85 3.80 0 0.12 0 5.32 12.34 0.96 0 0 0 0 0.69 4.85 13.12 0.10 0 4.85 0.04 0 0 1.91 Riparian/Wetlands Southern coast live oak riparian forest Southern arroyo willow riparian woodland Sycamore riparian woodland Riparian scrub Southern willow scrub Mulefat scrub Cismontane alkali marsh Cismontane alkali marsh (seasonal) Freshwater marsh Calavera Hills wetland restoration-site 16.42 9.41 6.50 0.28 0.53 1.16 0.35 1.21 0.27 3.30 0 0 0 0 0 0.45 0 0 0 0 0 0.08 0 0 0.21 0 0 0.02 0 0 0.99 1.24 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Others Disturbed land Developed TOTALS 21.51 23.23 549.26 0 2.84 30.32 0 2.87 22.02 0 5.76 28.01 Uplands Diegan Coastal Sage Scrub Diegan coastal sage scrub is the most common native upland community in the study area. Black sage (Salvia melliferd), California sagebrush (Artemisia californica), California adolphia (Adolphia californica), laurel sumac (Malosma laurind), and lemonade-berry (Rhus integrifolid) are all locally dominant or co-dominant in the sage scrub throughout the study area. California buckwheat (Eriogonum fasciculatum) and coastal wishbone plant (Mirabalis laevis var. crassifolia) are also common. This community occurs on most of the slopes and hillsides throughout the study area. Areas of sparse coastal sage scrub with high cover of invasive exotics such as black mustard (Brassica nigrd), filaree (Erodium spp.), and Russian thistle (Salsola tragus) are mapped and classified as disturbed Diegan coastal sage scrub. Approximately 268.19 acres of this community, including 4.12 acres of disturbed Diegan coastal sage scrub occurs Page 40 Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR 04080118 Camion RdReach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/200S I I I I I I I I I I I I Vegetation and Land Cover Northern Alternative Central Alternative Southern Alternative ™^ Non-Wetland Jurisdictional Waters Vegetation Uplands DCSS = Diegan coastal sage scrub DCSS(D) = Diegan coastal sage scrub (disturbed) DCSS(D)/NNG = Diegan coastal sage scrub (disturbed)/ non-native grassland ecotone SMC = Southern mixed chaparral NG = Native grassland NNG = Non-native grassland EW = Eucalyptus woodland AG = Agricultural DL = Disturbed land DEV = Developed Riparian/Wetlands ORF = Southern coast live oak riparian forest WW = Southern arroyo willow riparian woodland SRW = Sycamore riparian woodland RS = Riparian scrub SWS = Southern willow scrub MFS = Mulefat scrub CAM = Cismontane alkali marsh CAMS = Cismontane alkali marsh (seasonal) FWM = Freshwater marsh Restoration Site = Proposed wetland restoration site for Calavera Hills Source: Eagle Aerial, Nov2003: RBF Engineering, 2005 600 300 0 600 Feet Scale: 1:7,200; 1 inch = 600 feet Figure 6 Vegetation within the Cannon Road Reach 4 Study Area Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR 2004\04080118 Carlsbad Cannon RaEnvironmental Svcs\5GlS\Mxd\Figia-e_Vegelation.mxd SPS3f/6 (JB) 1/19/05 within the study area. Approximately 16.94 acres of this habitat occur within the Northern Alternative, 13.3 acres (0.96 acre of which is disturbed) occur within the Central Alternative, and 13.22 acres (0.10 of which is disturbed) occur within the Southern Alternative. Diegan Coastal Sage Scrub/Non-Native Grassland Ecotone Diegan coastal sage scrub/non-native grassland ecotone occurs in areas that were previously under cultivation that have been left fallow for a long enough period that coastal sage scrub species are now recolonizing these areas. These areas are most prevalent in the northern portion of the Carlsbad Highlands Mitigation Bank. Sagebrush and black sage are the two most common species recolonizing these areas; while wild oats (Avena sp.) and bromes (Bromus spp.) are the grass species anticipated to be present. Approximately 19.07 acres of this community occur within the study area. Approximately 0.85 acre of this community occurs within the Northern Alternative. This community does not occur within the Central or Southern alternatives. Southern Mixed Chaparral Southern mixed chaparral is infrequent within the study area. The largest patches occur in the central portion of the Carlsbad Highlands Mitigation Bank and along the southern boundary of the Holly Springs parcels. Chamise (Adenostoma fasciculatum) and black sage are the two dominants or co-dominants within this community within the study area. Toyon (Heteromeles arbutifolia), mission manzanita (Xylococcus bicolor), and lemonade-berry are also common. This community occurs sporadically throughout the study area and is generally restricted to north-facing mesic slopes. Approximately 38.72 acres of this community occur within the study area. Approximately 3.80 acres of this community occur within the Northern Alternative and 4.85 acres occur within the Southern Alternative. This community does not occur within the Central Alternative. Native Grasslands Native grasslands occur over a wide area on the Holly Springs parcels. This community generally intergrades with coastal sage scrub, occurring in the more open patches within the sage scrub. Purple needlegrass (Nasella pulchrd) is the dominant species with spring ephemerals such as Johnny jump-up (Violapendunculatd), shooting star (Dodecatheon clevelandii) and blue dicks (Dichelostemma capitatum) also present. Non-native grasses such as wild oats, foxtail chess (Bromus madritensis ssp. rubens}, Italian ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum), and soft chess (Bromus hordaceus) are also present. Approximately 10.14 acres of this community occur within the Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR Page 43 04080118 Cannon Rd Reach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/2005 study area. Approximately 0.04 acre of this community occurs within the Southern Alternative. This community does not occur within the Northern or the Central alternatives. Non-Native Grassland Non-native grasslands are the second largest upland community within the study area. The largest areas of this community occur in the northern portion of the Carlsbad Highlands Mitigation Bank. Wild oats, ripgut grass (Bromus diandrus), foxtail chess, Italian ryegrass, and soft chess are the dominant species in this community. Non-native grassland occurs on areas that have been previously cultivated (and previously mapped as agricultural lands) but are now fallow, as well as in openings in sage scrub. Historically, most of the areas supporting this community were either native grasslands or coastal sage scrub. Approximately 73.51 acres of this community occur within the study area. Approximately 0.12 acre of this community occurs within the Northern Alternative. This community does not occur within the Central or Southern alternatives. Eucalyptus Woodland A small patch of eucalyptus woodland occurs in the western portion of the Carlsbad Highlands Mitigation Bank. Blue gum (Eucalyptus globulus) is the sole dominant tree species. The understory consists of individuals of Russian thistle and goldenbush (Isocoma menziesii var. menziesii). Approximately 1.21 acres of this community occur within the study area. Approximately 0.69 acre of this community occurs within the Central Alternative. This community does not occur within the Northern or Southern alternatives. Agricultural Agricultural fields (fallow and active) occur along the western portion of the study area. Crops such as tomatoes and pumpkins were being grown or were recently grown in some of these fields. Approximately 54.25 acres of this community occur within the study area. Approximately 5.32 acres of this community occurs within the Northern Alternative, 4.85 acres occur within the Central Alternative, and 1.91 acres occur within the Southern Alternative. Page 44 Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR 040801 IS Cannon Rd Reach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/2005 Riparian/Wetlands Southern Coast Live Oak Riparian Forest Southern coast live oak riparian forest occurs along an unnamed tributary to Agua Hedionda Creek along the southern boundary of the Carlsbad Highlands Mitigation Bank. This drainage is depicted as an intermittent stream on the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) San Luis Rey quad map. This community barely encroaches onto the Holly Springs parcels along a lateral tributary to the major intermittent stream. Coast live oak (Quercus agrifolid) and arroyo willow (Salix lasiolepis) are the two dominant tree species. Western sycamore (Platanus racemosa) is scattered along the drainage course. Portions of the canopy are not contiguous, especially in the areas where the drainage channel is narrowly constricted. In some portions of the drainage there are only scattered arroyo willows. Mexican elderberry (Sambucus mexicand) is present along the periphery of the canopy in some locations. Generally the understory is sparse, particularly at the time of year the survey was conducted. Poison oak (Toxicodendron diversilobum) is the most conspicuous shrub present, while giant wild rye (Leymus condensatus), umbrella sedge (Cyperus sp.), and in the more alkali areas yerba mansa (Anemopsis californicd) constitute the common herbaceous species. Approximately 16.42 acres of this community occur within the study area. Approximately 0.99 acre of this community occurs within the Southern Alternative. This community does not occur within the Northern or Central alternatives. Southern Arroyo Willow Riparian Woodland Southern arroyo willow riparian woodland occurs along the upper limits of the unnamed tributary to Agua Hedionda on the Carlsbad Highland Mitigation Bank. Arroyo willow is the sole dominant and small patches of cattails (Typha sp.) are interspersed in areas of standing water. Historically, before the build-out of the residential development just inside the Oceanside city limits, oak riparian forest likely occurred here. With development, and subsequent increases in stream flows due to urban runoff, this upstream may have more perennial flows and the wetter conditions may now favor willows over oaks. Approximately 9.41 acres of this community occur within the study area. Approximately 0.08 acre of this community occurs within the Central Alternative and 1.24 acres occur within the Southern Alternative. This community does not occur within the Northern Alternative. Camion Road Reach 4 PEAR Page 45 040801 IS Cannon Rd Reach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/2005 Sycamore Riparian Woodland This community occurs along a small drainage and forms the western boundary of the study area. Western sycamore is the sole dominant and a riparian restoration area for the Calavera Hills project surrounds this community. Approximately 6.5 acres of this community occur within the study area but not within any of the alternatives. Riparian Scrub Riparian scrub is a generic term for riparian communities dominated by shrubby willows or mulefat. This community occurs along the northern boundary of the Carlsbad Highlands Mitigation Bank, but was not field verified due to access and occupies approximately 0.28 acre. This community does not occur within any of the alternatives. Southern Willow Scrub This community occurs sporadically along the streams and drainages in the study area, both on the Carlsbad Highland Mitigation Bank and the Holly Springs parcels. Areas classified as this community are characterized by widely spaced individuals with a noncontiguous canopy. Arroyo willow is the sole tree species present with cattails and umbrella sedge occurring sporadically along the streams also. Approximately 0.53 acre of this community occurs within the study area. This community includes areas previously mapped as freshwater marsh (City of Carlsbad 2001). Approximately 0.21 acre of this community occurs within the Central Alternative. This community does not occur within the Northern or Southern alternatives. Mulefat Scrub This community is restricted to the upper limits of two small drainages, one on the Carlsbad Highlands Mitigation Bank, the other on the Holly Springs parcel. Mulefat (Baccharis salicifolia) is the sole dominant shrub with salt grass (Distichlis spicata) forming a dense understory. Portions of this community exhibit a high density of mulefat, while other areas support only widely spaced individuals. Approximately 1.16 acres of this community occur within the study area. Approximately 0.45 acre of this community occurs within the Northern Alternative. This community does not occur within the Central or Southern alternatives. Page 46 Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR 04080118 Cannon Rd Reach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/2005 Cismontane Alkali Marsh Cismontane alkali marsh occurs sporadically along some of the minor drainages and swales on the Holly Springs parcels. Yerba mansa, salt grass, iris-leaved rush (Juncus xiphioides), spiny rush (Juncus acutus ssp. leopoldii), and spikerush (Eleocharis sp.) are the dominant species. Approximately 0.35 acre of this community occurs within the study area. This community does not occur within any of the alternatives. In addition, seasonal cismontane alkali marsh occurs along some of the swales throughout the Holly Springs parcels. Several small patches of this community also occur in the southern portion of the Carlsbad Highlands Mitigation Bank. Several species of rush (Juncus spp.) dominate this ephemeral community. Approximately 1.21 acres of this community occur within the study area. Approximately 0.02 acre of this community occurs within the Central Alternative. This community does not occur within the Northern or Southern alternatives. Freshwater Marsh Freshwater marsh occurs along one drainage on the Holly Springs parcel. Cattail (Typha latifolid) is the dominant species with yerba mansa, saltgrass, spiny rush, and spikerush also present. Though a small amount of this community was previously mapped on the Carlsbad Highlands Mitigation Bank, this area is included within the southern willow scrub for that site. Approximately 0.27 acre of this community occurs within the study area. This community does not occur within any of the alternatives. Others Disturbed Lands Disturbed lands areas are dominated by invasive, non-native weeds. These areas are regularly disturbed, which favors these exotics. Black mustard is the most conspicuous dominant in these areas. Castor bean (Ricinus communis) is abundant in a localized area in the northern portion of the study area. Filaree is abundant in areas of compacted soil. Approximately 21.51 acres of this community occur within the study area. This community does not occur within any of the alternatives. Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR Page 47 04080118 Cannon Rd Reach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/2005 Developed Developed areas include roads (including the existing Cannon Road), the Carlsbad Municipal Water District reservoir, private residences, and community gardens. Approximately 23.23 acres of this community occur within the study area. Approximately 2.84 acres of this developed lands occur within the Northern Alternative, 2.87 acres occur within the Central Alternative, and 5.76 acres occur within the Southern Alternative. Wildlife The Diegan coastal sage scrub, Diegan coastal sage scrub/non-native grassland ecotone, southern coast live oak riparian forest, southern arroyo willow riparian woodland, sycamore riparian woodland, southern willow scrub, mulefat scrub, cismontane alkali marsh, freshwater marsh, native grasslands, non-native grasslands, and eucalyptus woodland vegetation communities within the Cannon Road Reach 4 project area support a variety of wildlife species. Additionally, agricultural, disturbed lands, and developed cover types within the project area are also capable of supporting wildlife. A discussion of representative wildlife species that occur or have a potential to occur within those vegetation communities and cover types on-site is provided below. Scientific nomenclature conforms to Laudenslayer et al. (1991) for amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals. Representative species of Diegan coastal sage scrub communities detected within the project area include the coastal California gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica californicd), black-chinned sparrow (Spizella atrogularis), and gray fox (Urocyon cinereoargenteus). Another species detected in previous surveys (City of Carlsbad 2001) with a potential to occur is the loggerhead shrike (Lanius ludocicianus). Representative wildlife species detected or with a potential to occur within the Diegan coastal sage scrub/normative grassland ecotone habitat in the project area include California quail (Callipepla californicd), California towhee (Pipilo crissalis), southern California rufous-crowned sparrow (Aimophila ruficeps canescens), and mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus fuliginatd). Within the southern coast live oak riparian forest and sycamore riparian woodland habitats on- site, species detected include the red-winged blackbird (Agelaius phoenicus}, western kingbird (Tyrannus verticalis), Cooper's hawk (Accipiter cooperi) and raccoon (Procyon lotor). Other species detected in previous surveys (City of Carlsbad 2001) with the potential to occur include Page 48 Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR 04030118 Cannon RdReach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/2005 the orange-throated whiptail (Aspidoscelis hyperythra beldingi) and coast patch-nosed snake (Salvadora hexalepis). Representative species of the southern arroyo willow riparian woodland within the project area that were detected include the wrentit (Chamea fasciatd), yellow warbler (Dendroica petechid), and Anna's hummingbird (Calypte anna). Another species with some potential to occur due to previous survey results (City of Carlsbad 2001) is the yellow-breasted chat (Icteria virens). Wildlife species representative of the southern willow scrub and mulefat scrub habitats detected within the project area include the black phoebe (Sayornis nigricans) and house wren (Troglodytes aedori). Other species with the potential to occur include the least Bell's vireo (Vireo belliipusillis), detected in previous surveys (CDFG 2004e), and song sparrow (Melospiza melodid). Within the cismontane alkali marsh and freshwater marsh habitat within the project area, representative wildlife species with the potential to occur include the common white butterfly (Pieris rapae), common yellowthroat (Geothylpis trichas), and cottontail rabbit (Sylvilagus auduboni). Wildlife species detected within the native and non-native grassland habitats include the Behr's metalmark butterfly (Apodemia mormo virgulti), red-tailed hawk (Buteo jamaicensis), northern harrier (Circus cyaneus), cliff swallow (Petrochelidon pyrrhonotd), mountain lion (Felis concolor), and coyote (Cam's latrans). The grasshopper sparrow (Ammodramus savannarum) was detected in previous surveys (City of Carlsbad 2001). Within the eucalyptus woodland habitat on-site, representative species include the red shouldered hawk (Buteo lineatus), acorn woodpecker (Melanerpes formicivorus), and California ground squirrel (Spermophilis beechyi). The agricultural, disturbed lands, and developed cover types, while not considered habitat, also support wildlife species. Representative species that utilize agricultural areas detected on-site include the great blue heron (Ardea herodius) and killdeer (Charadrius vociferus). Developed and disturbed lands cover types may provide perches, roosts, or cover for a variety of urban or disturbance adapted wildlife species. These species include house finch (Carpodacus mexicanus), European starling (Sturnis vulgaris), mourning dove (Zenaida macroura), and common raven (Corvus corax). Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR Page 49 04080118 Cannon Rd Reach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/2005 •Ml Wildlife Corridors In an urban context, a wildlife migration corridor can be defined as a linear landscape feature of sufficient width and buffer to allow animal movement between two patches of comparatively undisturbed habitat, or between a patch of habitat and some vital resources. Regional corridors are defined as those linking two or more large areas of natural open space and local corridors are defined as those allowing resident animals to access critical resource (food, cover, water) in a smaller area that might otherwise be isolated by urban development. The Cannon Road Reach 4 property is not part of a major contiguous linkage between two or more large areas of open space. Portions of the site are within designated open space areas, and the Core #4 linkage area as defined by the Habitat Management Plan for Natural Communities in the City of Carlsbad (2004a). The project area links to the Calavera Nature Open Space Preserve and Calavera Lake to the north. However, the site is bordered by the existing Calavera Hills property to the northwest and west, agriculture to the southwest and south, and the existing developments within Oceanside to the southeast and east. As such, the site currently acts only as a local corridor for various wildlife species. The site would provide stepping-stone connectivity for avian species, to high value resources to the north and south such as Agua Hedionda and Batiquitos lagoons. Regulatory Setting U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pursuant to Section 404 of the Clean Water Act, the ACOE regulates activities that result in the discharge of dredged or fill material into waters of the U.S. Waters of the U.S. are defined in 33 CFR Part 328 as: (1) All waters which are currently used, or were used in the past, or may be susceptible to use in interstate or foreign commerce, including all waters which are subject to the ebb and flow of the tide; (2) All interstate waters including interstate wetlands; (3) All other waters such as intrastate lakes, rivers, streams, (including intermittent streams), mudflats, sandflats, wetlands, sloughs, prairie potholes, wet meadows, playa lakes, or natural ponds, the use, degradation or destruction of which could affect interstate or foreign commerce including any such waters: Page 50 Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR 04080118 Camion Rd Reach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/2005 (i) Which are or could be used by interstate or foreign travelers for recreational or other purposes; or (ii) From which fish or shellfish are or could be taken and sold in interstate or foreign commerce; or (iii) Which are used or could be used for industrial purpose by industries in interstate commerce; (4) All impoundments of waters otherwise defined as waters of the U.S. under the definition; (5) Tributaries of waters identified in paragraphs (1) through (4); (6) The territorial seas; (7) Wetlands adjacent to waters (other than waters that are themselves wetlands) identified in paragraphs (1) through (6). The ACOE (Federal Register 1982) and USEPA (Federal Register 1980) jointly define wetlands as "those areas that are inundated or saturated by surface or ground water at a frequency and duration sufficient to support, and that under normal circumstances do support, a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions. Wetlands generally include swamps, marshes, bogs, and similar areas (33 CFR 328.3{b]; 40 CFR 230.3[t])." The ACOE used this regulatory definition to develop a field method for determining wetland boundaries and published the Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual (Environmental Laboratory 1987) to identify and delineate wetland boundaries for the purpose of Section 404 regulation. This manual uses three parameters (vegetation, soil, and hydrology) to determine if a site is a wetland. The presence of positive indicators of all three parameters, hydrophytic vegetation, hydric soils, and wetland hydrology, is necessary for a site to qualify as jurisdictional wetlands. RECON (City of Carlsbad 2001) conducted a wetland determination and delineation. The RECON report covered the entire Master Plan area, of which a portion of the current study area for Cannon Road Reach 4 (referred to as Cannon Road Alternative 1 and Alternative 3 and the Holly Springs parcels in the RECON report) is included (see Figure 6). The riparian forest and riparian woodland along the USGS intermittent stream as well as the seasonal cismontane alkali marsh were identified as wetlands under the jurisdiction of the ACOE. In addition, non-wetland jurisdictional waters were identified for areas with strong indicators of seasonal flows or ponding Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR Page 51 04080118 Cannon Rd Reach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/2005 and the presence of an ordinary high water mark. As indicated in the RECON (City of Carlsbad 2001) report several of the stream courses and patches of seasonal cismontane alkali marsh do not appear to be hydrologically connected to other waters of the U.S. If these features are indeed "isolated" they would no longer be under the jurisdiction of the ACOE pursuant to Section 404 of the Clean Water Act, based upon the Supreme Courts "SWANNC Ruling" in 2001. For purposes of this analysis, a worst-case scenario is assumed, i.e., these seasonal wetlands are jurisdictional. As such, 0.31 acre of ACOE jurisdictional wetlands occurs within the Central Alternative. In addition, at least six minor lateral drainages to the USGS blue-line stream, identified as waters of the U.S. by RECON, occur within this alternative. No waters of the U.S. or wetland determinations and delineations were conducted for the Northern Alternative. Again assuming a worst-case scenario that all riparian habitat would qualify as such, approximately 0.46 acre of mulefat scrub could potentially qualify as ACOE jurisdictional wetlands. In addition, it is assumed that there are minor intermittent drainages present within the Northern Alternative that would qualify as waters of the U.S. For purposes of this analysis it is assumed that all of the riparian habitat within this alternative qualifies as ACOE jurisdictional wetlands. As such, approximately, 2.23 acres of ACOE jurisdictional wetlands occurs within the Southern Alternative. In addition, it is assumed that there are minor intermittent drainages present within the Southern Alternative that would qualify as waters of the U.S. Migratory Bird Treaty Act The goal of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) is to provide protection for any migratory bird listed in 50 CFR 10. The MBTA makes it illegal to hunt, take, capture, kill, possess, sell, purchase, transport, or carry any migratory bird, including their feathers, parts, or nests. The definition of "take" includes any disturbance that would result in nest abandonment or impaired reproductive efforts. California Department of Fish and Game Under Sections 1600-1607 of the California Fish and Game Code, the CDFG regulates activities that would alter the flow, bed, channel, or bank of streams and lakes. The limits of CDFG jurisdiction are defined in the code as the "... bed, channel or bank of any river, stream or lake designated by the department in which there is at any time an existing fish or wildlife resource or from which these resources derive benefit ..." The California Code of Regulations (14 CCR Page 52 Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR 04080118 Cannon Rd Reach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/2005 1.72) defines a stream as "a body of water that flows at least periodically or intermittently through a bed or channel having banks and supports fish or other aquatic life. This includes watercourses having a surface or subsurface flow that supports or has supported riparian vegetation." In practice, the CDFG usually extends its jurisdictional limit to the top of a stream or lake bank, or at the outer edge of the riparian vegetation, whichever is wider. Since riparian habitats do not always support wetland hydrology or hydric soils, federal Section 404 wetland boundaries sometimes include only portions of the riparian habitat adjacent to a river, stream, or lake. As such, jurisdictional boundaries under Sections 1600-1607 may encompass an area that is greater than that under the jurisdiction of Section 404. All wetlands and waters of the U.S. identified by RECON (City of Carlsbad 2001) are also under the jurisdiction of CDFG under Sections 1600-1607 of the California Fish and Game Code. It was previously mentioned that under the SWANNC decision, isolated wetlands and waters are no longer under the jurisdiction of Section 404 of the Clean Water Act. Conversely, isolated waters and wetlands would still be under the jurisdiction of CDFG pursuant to Sections 1600-1607 of the California Fish and Game Code. Additional CDFG jurisdictional habitat is anticipated to occur elsewhere on the State of California parcels. As mentioned previously, no waters of the U.S. or wetland determinations and delineations were conducted for the Northern Alternative. However, it is expected that the approximately 0.46 acre of mulefat scrub could potentially qualify as CDFG riparian. In addition, it is assumed that there are minor intermittent drainages present within the Northern Alternative that would qualify as state waters. All of the wetland and non-wetland waters of the U.S. identified as ACOE jurisdictional (including those that are considered isolated) by RECON (City of Carlsbad 2001) for the Central Alternative (Reach 4) would also be under the jurisdiction of the CDFG. For purposes of this analysis, it is assumed that all of the 2.23 acres of riparian habitat within the Southern Alternative qualifies as CDFG riparian habitat. In addition, it is assumed that there are minor intermittent drainages present within the Southern Alternative that would qualify as state waters. Regional Water Quality Control Board The RWQCB has primary authority for permit and enforcement activities under the Porter-Cologne Water Quality Control Act (Cal. Water Code 13000-13999.10) and the Clean Water Act. Section 401 of the Clean Water Act requires certification from the state RWQCB Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR Page 53 04080118 Camion RdReach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/2005 that the proposed project is in compliance with established water quality standards. Projects that have the potential to discharge pollutants are required to comply with established water quality objectives. Under Section 401 of the Clean Water Act, the RWQCB implements the water quality certification process for any activity that requires a federal permit or license and that may result in the discharge of pollutants into waters of the U.S., including wetlands. The RWQCB reviews the proposal to determine whether the activity would comply with state water quality objectives and, subsequently, either issues a certification with conditions or denies the certification. Water quality standards, according to the Clean Water Act (40 CFR 131), include beneficial uses, water quality objectives, and the anti-degradation policy. The RWQCB has recently issued a General Order (2004-0004-DWQ) for Dredge or Fill Material to Waters Deemed by the ACOE to be Outside of Federal Jurisdiction to cover those resources that are considered isolated and no longer under ACOE jurisdiction. Multiple Habitat Conservation Plan (MHCP) The City of Carlsbad is a participant in the Multiple Habitat Conservation Program (MHCP), a large multiple jurisdictional habitat planning program designed to develop an ecosystem preserve in northwestern San Diego County. Each jurisdictional participant in the MHCP will prepare a subarea plan, which will serve as a multiple species Habitat Conservation Plan pursuant to Section 10(a)(l)(B) of the federal ESA as well as a Natural Community Conservation Planning (NCCP) plan under the State of California's NCCP Act and the California ESA. The City of Carlsbad's HMP (City of Carlsbad 2004a) represents the City's MHCP Subarea Plan. Under this HMP, the City has identified a preserve system that includes Existing Hardlines, areas which represent areas already conserved for their wildlife value due to actions occurring in the past. In addition, the City has identified Proposed Hardline Areas that constitute properties whose conservation and development areas have been planned as part of the HMP. Each alternative of the proposed Cannon Road Reach 4 would traverse lands that are owned by the State of California and managed as biological mitigation banks. The Northern and Central alternatives would also traverse lands owned by Paul K. TR Tchang (Tchang Parcel). State- owned lands and the Tchang Parcel are currently designated as Open Space by the Carlsbad General Plan. In addition, portions of these lands have been designated as an Existing Hardline Conservation Area or Proposed Hardline Conservation Area by the City's HMP. Page 54 Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR 04080118 Cannon Rd Reach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/2005 Sensitive Habitats Sensitive habitats are those that are considered rare within the region by the CDFG, City of Carlsbad (2004a), and MHCP (SANDAG 2003); known to support sensitive plant or animal species; or receive regulatory protection (i.e., wetlands and waters as defined by the ACOE and CDFG). Sensitive upland communities include Diegan coastal sage scrub, southern mixed chaparral, Diegan coastal sage scrub/non-native grassland ecotone, native grassland, non-native grassland, eucalyptus woodland, and agricultural. Diegan coastal sage scrub (including disturbed sage scrub and sage scrub/non-native grassland), southern mixed chaparral, and native grasslands are sensitive because they are native communities that tend to support a high amount of sensitive species and have been greatly reduced in their extent due to urban and agricultural encroachment. Non-native grasslands are considered sensitive because of their important use as raptor foraging habitat. Eucalyptus woodlands are important for use as raptor nesting habitat. Agricultural lands can provide foraging habitat for wildlife. Sensitive riparian and wetland communities include southern coast live oak riparian forest, southern arroyo willow riparian woodland, sycamore riparian woodland, southern willow scrub, mulefat scrub, riparian scrub, freshwater marsh, and cismontane alkali marsh. These habitats are important for wildlife habitat as well as performing a number of important wetland functions related to water quality. Most of these communities, because they are wetlands and riparian communities, are regulated by the ACOE and/or the CDFG. All of these aforementioned communities are considered sensitive under the HMP (City of Carlsbad 2004a) as they all may require some form of compensation if impacted. Sensitive Plant Species Sensitive plant species are those that are federally listed by the USFWS (1999), are state listed or considered sensitive by the CDFG (2004a, 2004b), occur on the California Native Plant Society's (CNPS) Electronic Inventory of Rare and Endangered Vascular Plants of California (CNPS 2001), or are those that are considered covered species under the MHCP (SANDAG 2003). There are 24 HMP plant species, i.e., MHCP covered species, known from the city of Carlsbad (City of Carlsbad 2003). Based upon the MHCP "Vegetation Communities with Sensitive Species and Vernal Pools" San Luis Rey quad map (SANDAG n.d.), six sensitive plant species Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR Page 55 04080118 Camion Rd Reach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/2005 are known from the study area: thread-leaved brodiaea (Brodiaea filifolid), a federally threatened, state endangered and a MHCP covered and narrow endemic species; Nuttall's scrub oak (Quercus dumosd), a CNPS List IB and MHCP covered species; California adolphia, a CNPS List 2 species; western dichondra (Dichondra occidentalis), a CNPS List 4 species; and southwestern spiny rush (Juncus acutus ssp. leopoldii), a CNPS List 4 species. The sixth sensitive species, Blochman's dudleya (Dudleya blochmaniae), a CNPS List IB and a MHCP covered and narrow endemic species, has a mapped occurrence within the study area based upon the MHCP "Vegetation Communities with Sensitive Species and Vernal Pools" San Luis Rey quad map. However, the Carlsbad HMP states that only one population of this species is known from Carlsbad and occurs on the Hieatt property just north of Palomar Airport Road. The population mapped for the study area does not appear in the Carlsbad HMP or in the Final MHCP Plan (SANDAG 2003). For purposes of this analysis, this locality within the study area is considered erroneous. Of the 10 known populations of thread-leaved brodiaea in Carlsbad, the population on Carlsbad Highlands is considered 1 of at least 5 major populations that are considered critical locations. The Carlsbad Highlands population is proposed for conservation in its entirety (City of Carlsbad 2004a). Thread-leaved brodiaea occurs along the northern boundary of the Carlsbad Highlands Mitigation Bank. California adolphia is very common throughout the study area. Nuttall's scrub oak and western dichondra are known to occur on the Holly Springs parcels (City of Carlsbad 2004b). Southwestern spiny rush occurs along some of the drainages within the study area. Figure 7 depicts the locations of the sensitive species within the study area. California adolphia is common throughout all three of the alternatives. It is the only sensitive plant species currently known from any of the alternatives. In addition to these species, there are 19 other sensitive plant species that could potentially occur within the study area. Table 2 identifies the sensitive plant species, both MHCP covered species and non-covered species, that potentially could occur within the study area. Sensitive Wildlife Sensitive wildlife are those species that are listed as threatened or endangered by the USFWS (1999) and CDFG (2004c), covered under the Bald Eagle Protection Act by the USFWS, fully protected or species of special concern by the CDFG (2004d), and covered under the MHCP (SANDAG 2003). Within the project area, 10 sensitive species were detected by direct Page 56 Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR 040801 IS Cannon RdReach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/2005 I I I I I I I I I I I I O Surveyed Sensitive Species O CNDDB Sensitive Species* • MHCP Sensitive Plant Species D MHCP Sensitive Animal Species BNorthern Alternative Central Alternative Southern Alternative ^Z^ Overpass Sensitive Species AC = California adolphia (Ado/phia californica) BF= Thread-leaved brodiaea (Brodiaea filifo/ia) DO = Western dichondra (Dichondra occidentalis) JA = Southwestern spiny rush (Juncus acutus ssp. leopoldii) QD = Nuttall's scrub oak (Quercus dumosa) RR= Red diamond-back rattlesnake (Crotalus ruber ruber) GE = Golden eagle (Aquila chrystaeos) CH = Cooper's hawk (Accipiter cooper/) BK = White-tailed kite (Elanus leucurus) LH = Loggerhead shrike (Lanius ludocicianus) NH = Northern Harrier (Circus cyaneus) KZ. = Bell's sage sparrow (Amphispiza belli belli) RP= Southern California rufous-crowned sparrow (Aimophila ruficeps canescens) CG = Coastal California gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica californica) ML= Mountain lion (Felis concolor) MD = Southern mule deer (Odocoileus hemonious fuliginata) Provided by CDFG Source: Eagle Aerial, Nov 2003; RBF Consulting, 2005; CNDDB, 2004: MSCP, 2000 600 300 0 600 Feet Scale: 1:7,200; 1 inch = 600 feet Figure 7 Sensitive Species within the Cannon Road Reach 4 Study Area Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR 2004\04080118 Corlsbtxl Cannon Rd Environmental Svcs\5GlS\Mxd\f'igure_Sensitive Species.mxd SP83ft6 2/16/05 t i Table 2 Sensitive Plant Species and Potential for Occurrence within the Cannon Road Reach 4 Study Area Common Name/ Scientific Name Status Designation1 Habitat and Distribution Probability of Occurrence Activity/Breeding/ Blooming Period San Diego thornmint (Acanthomintha ilicifolid) USFWS: Threatened CDFG: Endangered CNPS List IB MHCP: Covered/Narrow Endemic San Diego thornmint occurs on heavy clay soils generally in grassland habitats, but also in open areas of sage scrub and chaparral. The closest known population is from habitat just northeast of the intersection of Palomar Airport Road and El Camino Real. This species has not been detected within the study area. This species has a moderate to high potential for occurrence within the study area. This annual blooms from April to June. California adolphia (Adolphia californicd) CNPS List 2 California adolphia occurs in sage scrub and grassland communities on clay soils. This species is known to occur in relatively high numbers on both the Carlsbad Highlands Mitigation Bank and Honey Springs parcels. This shrub blooms from December to April. San Diego ambrosia (Ambrosia pumild) USFWS: Endangered CNPS List IB MHCP: Covered/Narrow Endemic San Diego ambrosia occurs along creek beds and seasonally dry drainages and floodplains. The closest known populations occur along the San Luis Rey River in Oceanside. This species is not known from Carlsbad. This species has not been detected within the study area. Potential habitat occurs along the intermittent stream on the Carlsbad Highlands Mitigation Bank. This species is not expected to occur within the study area. This herbaceous perennial blooms from June to September. Del Mar manzanita (Arctostaphylos glandulosa ssp. crassifolid) USFWS:Endangered CNPS List IB MHCP: Covered/Narrow Endemic Del Mar manzanita occurs on sandstone formations in southern maritime chaparral. The closest known population of this species is just southwest of the intersection of El Camino Real and Palomar Airport Road. This species has not been detected within the study area. This species is not expected to occur within the study area, due to the lack of suitable habitat and soils. This shrub blooms from December to April. San Diego sagewort (Artemisia palmeri) CNPS List 4 San Diego sagewort occurs in riparian scrub or along intermittent drainages in sage scrub and chaparral habitats. This species is known from Carlsbad. This species has not been detected within the study area. This species has a moderate potential to occur within the riparian habitats within the study area. This perennial blooms from July to September. Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR 04080118 Cannon RdReach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/2005 Page 59 Table 2. Continued Common Name/ Scientific Name Status Designation1 Habitat and Distribution Probability of Occurrence Activity/Breeding/ Blooming Period Encinitas baccharis (Baccharis vanessae) USFWS: Threatened CDFG: Endangered CNPS List IB MHCP: Covered/Narrow Endemic In coastal areas this species occurs on marine sandstone formations in southern maritime chaparral. Only one population is known from Carlsbad, just north of Batiquitos Lagoon. This species has not been detected within the study area and is not expected to occur within the study area. This shrub blooms from August through November. Thread-leaved brodiaea (Brodiaea fllifolld) USFWS:Threatened CDFG: Endangered CNPS List IB MHCP: Covered/Narrow Endemic Thread-leaved brodiaea occurs in grasslands and vernal pools on heavy clay soils. This species occurs within the study area near the northwest corner of the Carlsbad Highlands Mitigation Bank near its boundary with the Calavera Heights Mitigation site. This herbaceous perennial blooms from May to early June. Orcutt's brodiaea (Brodiaea orcuttii) CNPS List IB MHCP: Covered Orcutt's brodiaea generally occurs along mesic swales and within vernal pools. The closest known population of this species is from Agua Hedionda Creek just west of the study area. This species has not been detected within the study area. This species has a low to moderate potential for occurrence along some of the intermittent drainages within the study area. This herbaceous perennial blooms from April through July. Wart-stemmed ceanothus (Ceanothus verrucosus) CNPS List 2 MHCP: Covered In coastal areas wart-stemmed ceanothus occurs on marine sandstone formations within southern maritime chaparral. The closest known population of this species is from just east of Agua Hedionda Lagoon. This species has not been nor expected to occur within the study area. This shrub blooms from February to April. Orcutt's spineflower (Chorizanthe orcttiana) USFWS: Endangered CDFG: Endangered CNPS List IB MHCP: Covered/Narrow Endemic This species occurs in very sandy openings in coastal chaparral communities. Only two extant populations of this species are known, Oak Crest Park in Encinitas and at the Point Loma Naval Base. This species has not been nor is it expected to occur within the study area. This spring annual blooms from March to April. Page 60 Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR 04080118 Cannon RdReach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/2005 i i t Table 2. Continued Common Name/ Scientific Name Summer holly (Comarostaphylis diversifolia ssp. diversifolid) Western dichondra (Dichondra occidentalis) Blochman's dudleya (Dudleya blochmaniae) Sticky dudleya (Dudleya viscidd) Cliff spurge (Euphorbia misera) Status Designation1 CNPS List IB MHCP: Covered CNPS List 4 CNPS List IB MHCP: Covered CNPS List IB MHCP: Covered CNPS List 2 MHCP: Covered Habitat and Distribution This species occurs on mesic north-facing slopes and along intermittent streams in chaparral communities. The closest known population of summer holly is near Agua Hedionda Creek northeast of the intersection of Palomar Airport Road and El Camino Real. Western dichondra occurs in sage scrub, chaparral, and woodland communities. This species occurs in coastal sage scrub habitat. A population of this species is indicated on the MHCP Vegetation Communities with Sensitive Species and Vernal Pools for the Honey Springs parcels. However, this location is not mentioned in the MHCP Plan, the Carlsbad HMP, nor the Cantarini and Holly Springs EIR. The only population recorded from Carlsbad in the HMP is from the Hieatt Property north of Palomar Airport Road. This species occurs on steep rocky cliffs. The closest known population and only Carlsbad population is along San Marcos Creek. This species occurs on coastal bluffs in maritime succulent scrub, coastal sage scrub and coastal Probability of Occurrence This species has not been detected within the study area and but has a moderate potential to occur in small numbers along the steep north-facing slopes along the southern boundary of the Carlsbad Highlands Mitigation Bank. This species has been detected on both the Carlsbad Highlands Mitigation Bank and the Honey Springs parcels. This species has not been detected within the study area and has a low to moderate potential for occurrence within the study area. This species has not been detected nor is it expected to occur within the study area due to the lack of suitable habitat. This species has not been detected nor is it expected to occur within the study area due to the lack of suitable habitat. Activity/Breeding/ Blooming Period This large shrub blooms from April to June. This herbaceous perennial blooms from March to May. This herbaceous perennial blooms from April to June. This herbaceous perennial blooms from May to June. This shrub blooms from January to August. Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR 04080118 Cannon RdReach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/200! Page 61 Table 2. Continued Common Name/ Scientific Name Status Designation1 Habitat and Distribution Probability of Occurrence Activity/Breeding/ Blooming Period bluff scrub, communities. A population along the coast in Carlsbad, just north of Agua Hedionda Lagoon, is the only known locality within the MHCP. This species has not been detected nor is it expected to occur within the study area due to its known range. Coast barrel cactus (Ferocactus viridescens) CNPS List 2 MHCP: Covered Coast barrel cactus occurs in coastal sage scrub and chaparral communities. Only one population is known from Carlsbad, along the coast, north of Palomar Airport Road. This species blooms from April to May. Palmer's grappling hook (Harpagonella palmeri) CNPS List 4 This species occurs in grasslands, sage scrub, and chaparral communities generally on clay soils. This species is known from several localities in Carlsbad including Calavera Hills. This species has a high potential for occurrence within the study area, especially in the large areas underlain by Altamont clay soils in the western portion of the Carlsbad Highlands Mitigation Bank. This annual blooms from March to April. Southwestern spiny rush (Juncus acutus ssp. leopoldii) CNPS List 4 Southwestern spiny rush occurs in a variety of riparian and marsh communities throughout San Diego County. This species is fairly common in the freshwater marsh and cismontane alkali marsh on the Holly Springs parcels, as well as a drainage in the northwestern portion of the Carlsbad Highlands Mitigation Bank. This herbaceous perennial blooms from May to June. Del Mar sand aster (Lessingia ^Corethrogyne filaginifolia var. linifolia) CNPS List IB MHCP: Covered/Narrow Endemic A revision of the genus Corethrogyne about 10 years ago combined the genus Corethrogyne with the genus Lessingia. This revision eliminated several varieties of the Corethrogyne filaginifolia complex including the Del Mar sand aster. However, many local botanists and the MHCP still recognize Del Mar sand aster as a sensitive taxa. This species occurs in sandy areas of This species has not been detected within the study area and would have a low potential for occurrence within the study area. This species blooms from June to August. Page 62 Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR 04080118 Camion RdReach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/2005 I i I a 1 Table 2. Continued Common Name/ Scientific Name San Diego goldenstar (Muilla clevelandii) Nuttall's scrub oak (Quercus dutnosa) Status Designation1 CNPS List IB MHCP: Covered/Narrow Endemic CNPS List IB MHCP: Covered Habitat and Distribution coastal chaparral and sage scrub communities. The closest reported population is along El Camino Real south of Palomar Airport Road. San Diego goldenstar occurs in grasslands and on vernal pool mima mounds. Large populations of this species are known from southwestern Carlsbad along San Marcos and Encinitas creeks. Nuttall's scrub oak occurs near the coast on sandstone soils in chaparral and sage scrub communities. Probability of Occurrence Though potential habitat exists on both the Carlsbad Highlands Mitigation Bank and Honey Springs parcels, the study area is well north of the northernmost known locality for this species. As such, this species would have a low potential for occurrence within the study area. A few individuals of this species occur in the western portion of the Honey Springs parcels. Activity/Breeding/ Blooming Period This herbaceous perennial blooms from April to May. This large shrub/small tree flowers from February to March. 'Sensitivity Status Codes U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS): Endangered: Species listed as endangered under the federal Endangered Species Act (FESA); Threatened: Species listed as threatened under FESA. California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG): Endangered: Species listed as endangered under the California Endangered Species Act (CESA); Threatened: Species listed as threatened under CESA. California Native Plant Society (CNPS) IB: Plants rare, threatened, or endangered in California and elsewhere; 2: Plants rare, threatened, or endangered in California, but more common elsewhere; 3: Plants more information is needed for; 4: Plants of limited distribution - a watch list. Multiple Habitat Conservation Program (MHCP) Covered: Species that will be covered under the take authorization for the MHCP. Narrow Endemic: Native species with restricted geographic distributions, soil affinities, and/or habitats and have important populations within the MHCP Plan area, such that a substantial loss of these populations or habitats might jeopardize the continued existence or recovery of that species. Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR 04080118 Cannon RdReach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/2005 Page 63 observation, scat, or other sign during 2004 general wildlife surveys of the project area. These species include the northern red-diamond rattlesnake (Crotalus ruber ruber), Cooper's hawk (Accipiter cooperi), northern harrier (Circus cyaneus), white-tailed kite (Elanus leucurus), coastal California gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica californicd), southern California rufous- crowned sparrow (Aimophila ruficeps canescens), Bell's sage sparrow (Amphispiza belli belli), black-chinned sparrow (Spizella atrogularis), San Diego black-tailed jackrabbit (Lepus californicus), and mountain lion (Felis concolor). Due to suitable habitat conditions, and previous recorded occurrences provided by the CDFG in the CNDDB (2004e), MHCP Biological Resource Map 4, and City of Carlsbad 2001, an additional 10 species were determined with some potential for occurrence. A list of these species, their sensitivity listing, habitat preferences, and potential for occurrence are detailed in Table 3. Figure 7 depicts the locations of the sensitive species within the study area. Within the project area, there are approximately eight coastal California gnatcatcher individuals within or directly adjacent to the southern alignment, three individuals directly adjacent to the central alignment, and two individuals within or adjacent to the northern alignment. Impact Analyses This section identifies impacts to biological resources from the build-out of Cannon Road Reach 4. Direct impacts were assessed based on the alternative footprints provided by RBF Consulting. Impacts to biological resources can be direct (a loss of the resource) or indirect (the resource was not lost but its quality has been adversely affected due to the adjacent impacts). Impacts can be permanent (irreversible loss) or temporary (resources have potential for recovery for a pre- impact condition once the impact has ceased). The Central Alternative corresponds to the alternative previously assessed by RECON (City of Carlsbad 2001), which traverses the southern portion of the Carlsbad Highlands Mitigation Bank. The Southern Alternative would traverse the Holly Springs parcels and the Northern Alternative would traverse the northern portion of the Carlsbad Highlands Mitigation Bank. Direct Impacts Vegetation For purposes of this analysis, it is assumed that all areas within the alternative footprints would be impacted. Pursuant to the HMP (City of Carlsbad 2004a), mitigation ratios for Diegan coastal Page 64 Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR 04080/18 Cannon Rd Reach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/2005 I I Table 3 Sensitive Wildlife Species and Potential for Occurrence within the Cannon Road Reach 4 Study Area Common Name (Scientific Name)Sensitivity Listing1 Habitat Preferences Potential for Occurrence Invertebrates Quino checkerspot butterfly (Euphydryas editha quino) USFWS: Endangered MHCP: Covered Native and normative grasslands, coastal sage scrub, open chaparral, and other open plant community types supporting host plant species such as dwarf plantain (Plantago erectd), owl's clover (Castilleja exserta), and others. Not expected. Due to limited historic distribution and negative results from 1 999 focused protocol- level surveys on the Holly Springs Parcel, this species is not expected to occur within the study area. Reptiles Coast horned lizard (Phrynosoma coronatum blainvillei) Belding's orange-throated whiptail (Aspidoscelis hyperythra beldingi) Northern red-diamond rattlesnake (Crotulus ruber ruber) Coast patch-nosed snake (Salvadora hexalepis) CDFG: Species of Special Concern CDFG: Species of Special Concern MHCP: Covered CDFG: Species of Special Concern MHCP: Covered CDFG: Species of Special Concern A variety of habitats including sage scrub, chaparral, coniferous, and broadleaf woodlands (Stebbins 1985). Found on sandy or friable soils with open scrub. Requires open areas, bushes, and fine loose soil. Sage scrub that covers about 50 percent of the ground without dense grasses in between. Also dense to extremely open stands of sage scrub as well as chamise chaparral and floodplain areas. Chaparral, coastal sage scrub, along creek banks, and in rock outcrops or piles of debris. Habitat preferences include dense vegetation in rocky areas. Utilizes a variety of habitats including coastal sage scrub, chaparral, riparian, grasslands, and agricultural fields (CDFG 1988). Prefers open habitats with friable or sandy soils, burrowing rodents for food, and enough cover to escape predation. Detected: This species was previously documented as occurring on the Holly Springs Parcel. High: This species was previously documented as occurring immediately west of the study area. Detected. Two individuals were observed along the northern boundary of the study area. Moderate potential. Suitable chaparral, scrub, and riparian habitats are present within the study area. Birds Golden eagle (Aquila chrystaeos) USFWS: Bald Eagle Protection Act CDFG: Fully Protected, Species of Special Concern Uncommon resident that forages over grassland and broken chaparral or sage scrub. Nests on high cliffs. High potential. Suitable foraging habitat occurs within the study area. In addition, this species was observed in previous surveys to the north of the study area. Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR 041)80118 Cannon RdReach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/2005 Page 65 Table 3. Continued Common Name (Scientific Name) Cooper's hawk (Accipiter cooperi) Northern harrier (Circus cyaneus) Sharp-shinned hawk (Accipiter striatus) White-tailed kite (Elanus leucurus) Loggerhead shrike (Lanius ludovicianus) Least Bell's vireo (Vireo bellii pusillus) Coastal California gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica californicd) Southern California rufous- crowned sparrow (Aimophila ruficeps canescens) Bell's sage sparrow (Amphispiza belli belli) Sensitivity Listing1 CDFG: Species of Special Concern CDFG: Species of Special Concern CDFG: Species of Special Concern CDFG: Fully Protected CDFG: Species of Special Concern USFWS: Endangered CDFG: Endangered USFWS: Threatened CDFG: Species of Special Concern MHCP: Covered CDFG: Species of Special Concern CDFG Species of Special Concern Habitat Preferences Usually in oak woodlands, but occasionally in willow or eucalyptus woodlands. Occurs in grasslands and agricultural fields during migration and in winter. Visitor to woodlands, parks, and residential areas. This species occurs in coastal and valley lowlands and is rarely found away from agricultural areas. Inhabits herbaceous and open stages of most habitats, mostly in cismontane California. Occurs in semi-open country with utility posts, wires, and trees to perch on. Riparian woodland with understory of dense young willows or mulefat and willow canopy. Nests often placed along internal or external edges of riparian thickets (USFWS 1986). Diegan coastal sage scrub dominated by California sagebrush (Artemisia californicd) and flat-topped buckwheat (Eriogonum fasciculatum) below 1 ,000 feet elevation along the coastal slope; generally avoids steep slopes above 25 percent and dense, tall vegetation for nesting. Grassy or rocky slopes with open scrub at elevations from sea level to 600 meters. Occurs mainly in coastal sage scrub. Occurs mainly in coastal sage scrub and chaparral habitats Potential for Occurrence Detected. Observed perched adjacent to the southern boundary of the study area and soaring continuously over the study area. Detected. Pair observed frequently flying over the study area. Detected. This species was previously documented as occurring on the Holly Springs Parcel. Detected. This species was observed perched adjacent to the northern boundary of the study area and was seen flying over the northern portion of the study area. Detected. This species was detected within the study area during previous surveys. Moderate potential. One individual is known historically along the southwestern boundary of the study area, and suitable habitat is present within the study area. Detected. Two individuals were observed along the western boundary of the study area, and one individual was detected in the southern portion of the study area. Detected. This species was detected on the northern portion of the study area. Detected. This species was previously documented as occurring within the study area. Page 66 Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR 04080118 Cannon RdReach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/2005 Table 3. Continued Common Name (Scientific Name) Black-chinned sparrow (Spizella atrogularis) Western burrowing owl (Athene cunicularia) Sensitivity Listing1 CDFG: Species of Special Concern CDFG: Species of Special Concern MHCP: Covered Habitat Preferences Occurs mostly on sloping ground in mixed chaparral, chamise-redshank chaparral, sagebrush, and similar brushy habitats, including those in understory of sparse pinyon-juniper, juniper, and other conifer habitats. Also frequents shrub stands of mixed species. Burrowing owl inhabit open areas such as grasslands, pastures, coastal dunes, desert scrub, and the edges of agriculture fields (Unitt 1984) Potential for Occurrence Detected. Observed during general wildlife surveys in chaparral habitat throughout the southern portion of the study area. Not expected. Marginal suitable habitat is present within the project area and no occurrences are known in the vicinity of the study area. Mammals San Diego black-tailed jackrabbit (Lepus californicus bennettii) Mountain lion (Felis concolor) Southern mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus fuliginatd) CDFG: Species of Special Concern MHCP: Covered MHCP: Covered MHCP: Covered Typical habitats include early stages of chaparral, open coastal sage scrub, and grasslands near the edges of brush. Found in nearly all habitats, except xeric regions of the Mojave and Colorado deserts that do not support mule deer populations. Occur most frequently in riparian areas, and brushy stages of most habitats. Typical habitat includes early to intermediate successional stages of most forest, woodland, and brush habitats. Prefers a mosaic of various-aged vegetation that provides woody cover, meadow and shrubby openings, and free water. Detected. This species was observed in chaparral habitat on the western portion of the study area. Detected. Sign of this species was found at the southern portion of the study area. Detected. This species was observed in previous surveys of the project area and suitable habitat occurs within the study area. 'Sensitivity Status Codes U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS): Endangered: Species listed as endangered under the federal Endangered Species Act (FESA); Threatened: Species listed as threatened under FESA; Bald Eagle Protection Act: Species protected under the Bald Eagle Protection Act. California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG): Endangered: Species listed as endangered under the California Endangered Species Act (CESA); Species of Special Concern: Species who because of declining population levels, limited ranges, and/or continuing threats have made them vulnerable to extinction; Fully Protected: Species that may not be taken or possessed without a permit from the Fish and Game Commission. Multiple Habitat Conservation Program (MHCP) Covered: Species that will be covered under the take authorization for the MHCP. Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR 04080118 Cannon Rd Reach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/200} Page 67 sage scrub differ depending upon whether the habitat impacted is occupied by the coastal California gnatcatcher. Recent protocol-level surveys for this species have not been conducted for the alternatives; however, for purposes of this analysis, all patches of this habitat that historically supported this species (i.e., previous surveys by RECON, MHCP mapping) are considered occupied. In addition, any patches of high-quality Diegan sage scrub that are contiguous with the known occupied patches, but for which no records of historical use are known, are also considered occupied or potentially occupied. Lower-quality habitat, i.e., Diegan coastal sage scrub (disturbed)/non-native grassland ecotone or disturbed Diegan coastal sage scrub, is considered unoccupied. This assumption only affects a small bit of habitat (0.85 acre of presumed unoccupied habitat) within the Northern Alternative. If this habitat is indeed occupied, the additional mitigation requirement would not substantially alter this analysis, as the northern alignment already impacts the most occupied gnatcatcher habitat relative to the other two alternatives. The Northern Alternative would directly impact a total of 16.94 acres of coastal California gnatcatcher-occupied Diegan coastal sage scrub, 0.85 acre of unoccupied Diegan coastal sage scrub (disturbed)/non-native grassland ecotone, 3.80 acres of southern mixed chaparral, 0.12 acre of non-native grassland, 0.45 acre of mulefat scrub, 5.32 acres of agricultural land, and 2.84 acres of developed lands. Under the HMP, impacts to all of these communities (with the exception of developed lands) would be significant and would require some form of mitigation, either habitat compensation or payment of an in-lieu fee. The Central Alternative would directly impact 12.34 acres of coastal California gnatcatcher- occupied Diegan coastal sage scrub, 0.96 acre of unoccupied disturbed Diegan coastal sage scrub, 0.69 acre of eucalyptus woodland, 0.08 acre of southern arroyo willow riparian woodland, 0.21 acre of southern willow scrub, 0.02 acre of seasonal cismontane alkali marsh, 4.85 acres of agricultural land, and 2.87 acres of developed lands. Under the HMP, impacts to all of these communities (with the exception of developed lands) would be significant and would require some form of mitigation, either habitat compensation or payment of an in-lieu fee. The Southern Alternative would directly impact a total of 12.66 acres of coastal California gnatcatcher occupied Diegan coastal sage scrub, 0.10 of unoccupied Diegan coastal sage scrub, 4.85 acres of southern mixed chaparral, 0.04 acre of native grassland, 0.52 acre of southern coast live oak riparian forest, 0.87 acre of southern arroyo willow riparian woodland, 1.91 acres of agricultural lands, and 5.76 acres of developed lands. Under the HMP impacts to all of these communities (with the exception of disturbed and developed lands) would be significant as they would require some form of mitigation, either habitat compensation of payment of an in lieu fee. Page 68 Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR 04080118 Cannon Rd Reach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/2005 «* •m Sensitive Plants All three alternatives would directly impact individuals of California adolphia. These impacts would be significant. Sensitive Wildlife The Northern Alternative would directly impact 16.94 acres of occupied coastal California gnatcatcher habitat and approximately one coastal California gnatcatcher individual. In comparison to the Central and Southern alternatives, the Northern Alternative impacts a larger acreage of occupied habitat, but the smallest number of individuals. These impacts would be considered significant. The Central Alternative would directly impact 12.34 acres of occupied coastal California gnatcatcher habitat and approximately two coastal California gnatcatcher individuals. The Central Alternative would impact less occupied habitat compared within the Northern and Southern alternatives. This alternative would impact one more individual than the Northern Alternative, but five less individuals relative to the Southern Alternative. These impacts would be considered significant. The Southern Alternative would directly impact 13.12 acres of occupied coastal California gnatcatcher habitat and approximately three pairs of coastal California gnatcatchers. Relative to the Northern and Central alternatives, the Southern Alternative would result in the most impacts to individual coastal California gnatcatchers. These impacts would be considered significant. Wildlife Corridors The proposed project would impact local wildlife movement within the project site. Construction of the road would bisect the existing habitat and impede wildlife movement across the road in a north-south direction. These impacts would be considered significant. Indirect Impacts Vegetation and Sensitive Plants The Southern Alternative design includes two bridge crossings of the unnamed USGS blue-line stream. Permanent indirect impacts from shading would occur to approximately 0.46 acre of Diegan coastal sage scrub, 0.46 acre of southern coast live oak riparian forest, and 0.37 acre of Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR Page 69 04080118CannonRdReach4PEARrev.doc 3/16/2005 southern arroyo willow riparian woodland. Additional permanent indirect impacts would occur from habitat fragmentation, as all of the alternatives would divide existing contiguous native habitat and increased storm water runoff from the new impervious surfaces. These impacts would be significant. Temporary indirect impacts to sensitive vegetation and plant populations could also arise from construction-generated fugitive dust, erosion, and sedimentation. These impacts are anticipated to be quite similar for each of the three alternatives but would only occur through the construction period and are thus considered temporary. These impacts could be significant depending upon the extent of the impact and the affected resource. Sensitive Wildlife Indirect impacts to wildlife could also occur from the bridge shading, which could reduce the quality of the impacted habitat. Approximately 0.46 acre of coastal California gnatcatcher occupied Diegan coastal sage scrub and 0.83 acre of riparian habitat (0.46 acre of southern coast live oak riparian forest, and 0.37 acre of southern arroyo willow riparian woodland) would be indirectly impacted from the bridge shading. These impacts would be significant. Indirect impacts to sensitive wildlife could arise from habitat fragmentation, construction- generated noise within 300 feet of occupied habitat in excess of 60 dBA (A-weighted decibels) during the breeding season of the coastal California gnatcatcher (February 15-August 31) or other sensitive species covered by the MBTA. These species also include the various raptor species within the project area. These impacts would be significant. Indirect impacts from construction of the Central and Southern alternatives would result in indirect impacts to eight coastal California gnatcatcher individuals. Also, relative to the Northern Alternative, a larger acreage of high-quality breeding and nesting habitat (i.e., eucalyptus woodland, oak riparian forest) for various raptors exists in the vicinity of the Central and Southern alternatives. Therefore, one golden eagle, two Cooper's hawks, and a northern harrier may also be indirectly impacted by construction of the Central or Southern alternatives. These impacts would be considered significant. Page 70 Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR 040801 IS Cannon RdReach 4 PEAR rev.Joc 3/16/2005 Mitigation All three alternatives would impact sensitive resources. Table 4 below reflects the mitigation ratios for impacts to Carlsbad HMP habitats and is a refinement of Table 11 in the HMP to be consistent with the resources in the Cannon Road Reach 4 study area. Table 4 Mitigation Ratios for HMP Habitats Habitat Type Group A: Southern coast live oak riparian forest, southern arroyo willow riparian woodland, southern willow scrub, mulefat scrub, cismontane alkali marsh, and freshwater marsh Group B: Native grassland Group C: Coastal California gnatcatcher occupied Diegan coastal sage scrub Group D: Unoccupied Diegan coastal sage scrub and southern mixed chaparral Group E: Non-native grassland Group F: Disturbed lands, eucalyptus woodlands, and agricultural lands Mitigation Ratio/Requirement No net loss goal (mitigation ratio varies by type of replacement habitat) 3:1 2:1 In-lieu mitigation fee of $7897/acreJ In-lieu mitigation fee of $3,989/acre' In-lieu mitigation fee of $790/acre1 1 Although the exact amount of in-lieu mitigation fee for these groups has not as yet been approved by the City Council, these fee schedules represent the fees recommended in the HMP's Implementing Agreement (City of Carlsbad 2004a). Table 5 lists the impacts and potential mitigation compensation requirements based on the ratios in Table 4. Table 5 Direct and Indirect Impacts and Mitigation Requirements for Vegetation Communities for the Three Alternatives Vegetation Type Mitigation Ratiou Northern Alternative Impacts | Mitigation Central Alternative Impacts Mitigation Southern Alternative Impacts Mitigation Uplands Diegan coastal sage scrub Diegan coastal sage scrub (disturbed) Diegan coastal sage scrub (disturbed)/non- native grassland ecotone 2:1 In-lieu fee of $7897/acre In-lieu fee of $7897/acre 16.94 0 0.85 33.88 N/A $6,713 12.34 0.96 0 24.68 $7,581 N/A 13.123 0.10 0 26.243 $790 N/A Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR 04080118 Cannon Rd Reach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/2005 Page 71 >m TableS. Continued Vegetation Type Southern mixed chaparral Native grassland Non-native grassland Eucalyptus woodland Agricultural Mitigation Ratiou In-lieu fee of $7897/acre 3:1 In-lieu fee of $3,949/acre In-lieu fee of $7897/acre In-lieu fee of $790/acre Northern Alternative Impacts 3.80 0 0.12 0 5.32 Mitigation $30,009 N/A $474 N/A $4,203 Central Alternative Impacts 0 0 0 0.69 4.85 Mitigation N/A N/A N/A $5,449 $3,832 Southern Alternative Impacts 4.85 0.04 0 0 1.91 Mitigation $38,300 0.12 N/A N/A $1,509 Riparian/Wetlands Southern coast live oak riparian forest Southern arroyo willow riparian woodland Sycamore riparian woodland Riparian scrub Southern willow scrub Mulefat scrub Cismontane alkali marsh Cismontane alkali marsh (seasonal) Freshwater marsh 3:12 3:12 3:12 2:12 2:12 2:12 2:12 2:12 2:12 0 0 0 0 0 0.46 0 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A 0.92 N/A N/A N/A 0 0.08 0 0 0.21 0 0 0.02 0 N/A 0.24 N/A N/A 0.42 N/A N/A 0.04 N/A 0.993 1.243 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2.973 3.723 N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Others Disturbed land Developed TOTALS In-lieu fee of $790/acre N/A N/A 0 2.84 30.32 N/A N/A 34.80 ac. $41,399 0 2.87 22.02 N/A N/A 25.38 ac. $16,862 0 5.76 28.01 N/A N/A 33.05 ac. $40,599 1 Mitigation ratios are based upon the Carlsbad HMP. Section 404 of the Clean Water Act and/or Section 1600 of the California Fish and Game Code. The ratios presented herein are estimates based upon expected ratios the resource agencies would require given the quality of the habitats. Though the eventual mitigation ratios may change, these assumptions allow for a comparison of the three alternative sites. Impacts for the Southern Alternative include indirect impacts from bridge shading. Mitigation ratios for indirect impacts from bridge shading may be lower; however, these ratios will be determined during the review process under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act and/or Section 1600 of the California Fish and Game Code. The ratios presented herein are estimates based upon expected ratios the resource agencies would require given the quality of the habitats. Page 72 Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR 04080118 Cannon RdReach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/2005 As currently designed and based upon this preliminary analysis, the Northern Alternative would require approximately 33.88 acres of off-site Diegan coastal sage scrub mitigation, 0.92 acre of off-site mulefat scrub mitigation, and $41,399 paid as in-lieu mitigation fees. As currently designed and based upon this preliminary analysis, the Central Alternative would require approximately 24.68 acres of off-site Diegan coastal sage scrub mitigation, 0.24 acre of off-site southern arroyo willow riparian woodland mitigation, 0.42 acre of off-site southern willow scrub mitigation, 0.04 acre of seasonal cismontane alkali marsh mitigation, and $16,862 paid as in-lieu mitigation fees. As currently designed and based upon this preliminary analysis, the Southern Alternative would require approximately 26.24 acres of off-site Diegan coastal sage scrub mitigation, 0.12 acre of off-site native grassland, 2.97 acres of southern coast live oak riparian forest; 3.72 acres of off- site southern arroyo willow riparian woodland mitigation, and $40,599 paid as in-lieu mitigation fees. Mitigation for the Diegan coastal sage scrub, native grassland, and riparian/wetland habitats shall occur within Carlsbad, principally in the Focused Planning Areas unless the City Council authorizes mitigation outside the city. For habitat Groups D, E, and F in Table 4 above, a mitigation fee shall be paid to the City in lieu of off-site mitigation in an amount to be determined by the City Council. The amount of the fee shall be adequate to cover the cost of any acquisition of land in the MHCP core area, which is the responsibility of the City of Carlsbad and for which funding has not previously been provided. The fee may also be used to provide for overall management and maintenance of the preserve system (City of Carlsbad 2004a). All unavoidable wetland impacts (both temporary and permanent) will need to be analyzed and mitigation will be required in consultation with the resource agencies (ACOE and CDFG). Mitigation should be based on the impacted type of wetland habitat. Higher-quality habitats such as the southern coast live oak riparian forest and southern arroyo willow riparian woodland are anticipated to have higher mitigation ratios than habitats such as riparian scrub (i.e., southern willow scrub and mulefat scrub) and marshes (i.e., cismontane alkali marsh and freshwater marsh). In all of these instances the mitigation ratio would have to be at a minimum of 1:1 to ensure a no net loss of habitat function and values. Road or utility projects that must cross a wetland will be required to demonstrate that the crossing will occur at the narrowest and/or least sensitive location and that all feasible minimization measures have been employed. Impacts to habitats under the jurisdiction of the ACOE pursuant to Section 404 of the Clean Water Act would require issuance of a Department of Army Permit as well as certification from the Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR Page 73 04080118 Cannon Rd Reach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/200S RWQCB pursuant to Section 401 of the Clean Water Act. Impacts to habitats under the jurisdiction of the CDFG pursuant to Sections 1600-1607 of the California Fish and Game Code would require issuance of a streambed alteration agreement. Waters of the U.S. and wetland determinations and delineation would be required for areas of the alternative that may not have been previously delineated for the Cannon Road Reach 4 alignment and the Holly Springs parcels, especially the Northern Alternative. Projects located in an Existing Hardline Area, Proposed Hardline Areas, or Standard Area shall be reviewed by City staff to ensure compliance with the HMP. If the project complies with the HMP, it would go through normal City review and, if approved, the City would issue a "take" permit. Significant impacts to sensitive plant species would be mitigated through the habitat compensation measures described above. Direct impacts to sensitive wildlife species and wildlife corridors may be avoided or minimized to below a level of significance through implementation of USFWS Section 10(a) Permit conditions as outlined in the following subsection, along with the habitat compensation discussed above. Indirect impacts to sensitive wildlife from construction-generated noise and loss of habitat will be avoided or minimized through the USFWS conditions to the City's Section 10(a) Permit as described in the following subsection. Indirect impacts to vegetation from habitat fragmentation will be minimized through the USFWS conditions to the City's Section 10(a) Permit as described in the following subsection. Issuance and compliance with an NPDES permit from the RWQCB (including developing and implementing a Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan with best management practices) will be required for all of the alternatives to reduce or avoid indirect impacts associated with construction-generated fugitive dust, erosion, sedimentation, and runoff, as well as post- construction storm water runoff. Lastly, sensitive rare plant surveys and protocol level wildlife surveys should be conducted to assess the "take" of covered species under the City's Section 10(a) Permit from this project. Page 74 Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR 04080118 Cannon Rd Reach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/200} USFWS Section 10(a) Permit Conditions The City of Carlsbad's Subarea HMP has just been recently approved (November 9, 2004) and the Implementation Agreement signed by the USFWS, CDFG, and City of Carlsbad for issuance of a Section 10(a) Permit and an NCCP Permit. As part of the Section 10(a) Permit, the USFWS has finalized special terms and conditions for this permit and these are included in the HMP. Many of the conditions pertain to Cannon Road Reach 4 and are summarized below. Final Permit Condition 5 states that "In order to reduce the potential take of eggs or chicks of the coastal California gnatcatcher, the permitee shall not allow any clearing and grubbing activities in known and potentially occupied coastal California gnatcatcher habitat during the breeding season which extends from February 15 through August 31." Final Permit Condition 6 states that "In order to minimize impacts to the coastal California gnatcatcher, California rufous-crowned sparrow, and orange-throated whiptail to the maximum extent practicable, the City shall ensure that if they proceed with their plans to construct Cannon Road Reach 4 or Marron Road through the Sherman Property, the City will consult with the Wildlife Agencies on the preparation of a draft Environmental Impact Report to ensure that all potential alternatives to construction of these roads are fully considered. Any alternatives that include the construction of these roads shall meet the following standards unless otherwise agreed to by the USFWS and CDFG due to new information from scientific studies: a. A wildlife study that gathers wildlife movement data for at least one full year shall be conducted preceding the design of any road undercrossings. b. Noise within the underpasses shall be less than 60dBA during the time of day that animals use it. Sound walls shall also be considered along portions of the road that pass over underpasses in order to reduce noise levels, as increased traffic volume may decrease the frequency at which a species uses the underpass. c. Shield corridors from artificial lighting. Use skylight openings within the underpass to allow vegetation cover within the underpass. d. Design underpasses or culverts to be at least 30 feet wide by 15 feet high with a maximum 2:1 length to width ratio. A more important variable is the openness of the underpass, which takes into consideration the height, width, and length of the underpass (H*W/L). The openness value shall be greater than 0.6. Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR Page 75 040801 IS Cannon RdReach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/2005 e. Avoid co-locating human trails with wildlife movement corridors/crossings. Underpasses shall be situated along primary travel routes away from areas containing noise and light pollution and serve only wildlife needs since human presence and/or recreational activities can deter wildlife activity. In order to prevent attempts in at-grade crossings by the target species, it is critical that fencing be installed to complement the underpasses. Fencing shall be used to funnel wildlife away from at-grade road crossings and toward undercrossings. Fencing shall be at least 8 feet high (measured from the ground up) and placed along portions of the road that bisect the natural open space to prevent end runs. Coyotes and deer are infamous for end runs, which mean they will continue to shift their movements to go around the end of a fence instead of using an underpass. Furthermore, the fencing shall also have mesh that is less than 10 cm x 15 cm and be seated at least 15 cm into the ground to prevent the animals from exploiting any weaknesses, which would allow them access to the road. Finally, the fencing shall be installed to 'funnel' the animals towards each underpass using wing fencing on both sides of the culvert. f. Screen undercrossing openings with natural vegetation. Native vegetation shall surround all underpass entrances and replace any proposed rock fill slope protection. g. To maximize the width of the culvert available for wildlife movement, the water drainage area in the base of each culvert shall be as narrow as possible and placed to the side, rather than the center. Concrete V-ditches shall be eliminated to allow for natural stream flows, which provide the elements critical for the movement of sensitive reptile and amphibian species." Floodplain Evaluation The proposed project area is not within a 100-year floodplain and hazards as a result of flooding are considered minimal. The 100-year floodplain for Agua Hedionda Creek is located to the southwest of the proposed project area. Cumulative Impacts Cumulative impacts are determined in terms of long-term projections of growth and development contained in local general plans and regional plans for the affected areas, and for identified planned projects in the project's region of influence. The EIR/EA will identify planned projects in proposed project vicinity. Page 76 Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR 040801 IS Cannon RdReach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/2005 The Cannon Road Reach 4 project, when added to other past, present, and reasonable foreseeable future actions, could potentially have a cumulative impact on land use, agricultural resources, visual quality, noise, air quality, and biological resources. A detailed analysis of each resource area will be conducted in respective technical reports and in the EIR/EA. More definitive cumulative impacts will be identified at that time. LIST OF PREPARERS Personnel responsible for preparation of this PEAR include the following: EDAW, Inc. 1420 Kettner Boulevard, Suite 620 San Diego, California 92101 William Graham, Principal-in-Charge Valarie Yruretagoyena, Senior Environmental Specialist, Project Manager Anthony K. Rogers-Wright, Environmental Analyst John Messina, Senior Biologist Barbra Calantas, Wildlife Biologist Jennifer Hirsch, Senior Archaeologist Eric Coughlin, GIS Specialist Dan Brady, Graphics Specialist Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR Page 77 040801 IS Cannon RdReach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/2005 REFERENCES California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG). 1988. California Statewide Wildlife Habitat Relationships System. Volume 1: Amphibians and Reptiles. David Zeiner, W. Laudenslayer, and K. Mayer, eds. The Resource Agency. Sacramento. 269 pp. California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG). 2004a. California Department of Fish and Game Wildlife Habitat Data Analysis Branch. California Natural Diversity Database. State and Federally Listed Endangered, Threatened, and Rare Plants of California. October 2004. 14pp. California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG). 2004b. California Department of Fish and Game Wildlife Habitat Data Analysis Branch. California Natural Diversity Database. Special Plants List. July 2004. 88pp. California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG). 2004c. California Department of Fish and Game Wildlife Habitat Data Analysis Branch. California Natural Diversity Database. State and Federally Listed Endangered, Threatened, and Rare Animals of California. November 2004. 10pp. California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG). 2004d. California Department of Fish and Game Wildlife Habitat Data Analysis Branch. California Natural Diversity Database. Special Animals List. August 2004. 48 pp. California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG) 2004e. California Department of Fish and Game. RareFind 3 computer program. California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB) Search for Cannon Reach 4 Project Area. California Department of Fish and Game, State of California Resources Agency. Sacramento, California. California Native Plant Society (CNPS). 2001. Inventory of Rare and Endangered Plants of California (sixth edition). Rare Plant Scientific Advisory Committee, David P. Tibor, Convening Editor. California Native Plant Society. Sacramento, CA. x+388 pp. California Department of Transportation (Caltrans). 1998. Traffic Noise Analysis Protocol for New Highway and Reconstruction Projects, including Technical Noise Supplement. October. Page 78 Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR 04080118 Cannon Rd Reach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/2005 City of Carlsbad. 2001. Calavera Hills Master Plan Phase II, Bridge and Thoroughfare District No. 4, and Detention Basins Final Environmental Impact Report and Technical Appendices EIR 98-02. SCH No. 99111082. Prepared by RECON. November 2001. City of Carlsbad. 2004a. Habitat Management Plan for Natural Communities in the City of Carlsbad. June 2003 with addenda. City of Carlsbad. 2004b. Final Environmental Impact Report for the Cantarini/Holly Springs Developments EIR 02-02. Prepared by Mooney and Associates. October 2004. City of Carlsbad General Plan. 1994. April. Environmental Laboratory. 1987. Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual. Technical Report Y-87-1. U.S. Army Engineer Waterways Experiment Station. Vicksburg, Miss. Hickman, J. (ed.). 1993. The Jepson Manual: Higher Plants of California. University of California Press. Berkeley, California. 1,400pp. Laudenslayer, William F., Jr., W.E. Grenfell, Jr., and D. Zeiner. 1991. A check-list of the amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals of California. The Resources Agency: 77(3):109-141. Oberbauer, T. 1996. Terrestrial Vegetation Communities in San Diego County, based on Holland's descriptions. February 1996. Project Clean Water. 2003. Annual Update-Carlsbad Hydrologic Unit. Available at http://www.projectcleanwater.org/html/ws_carlsbad.html. RBF Consulting. 2004. Preliminary Traffic Study for the Cannon Road Reach 4 Project. November 2004. SANDAG. 2003. Final Multiple Habitat Conservation Program Biological Analysis and Permitting Conditions. March 2003. SANDAG. n.d. Multiple Habitat Conservation Program Vegetation Communities with Sensitive Species and Vernal Pool San Luis Rey quad map. Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR Page 79 04080118 Cannon Rd Reach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/16/2005 San Diego County Air Pollution Control District (APCD). 2004. 8-Hour Ozone Nonattainment Designation. April 14. Available at http://www.sdapcd.co.san-diego.ca.us/info/ notices/8_hour_ozone.pdf. Stebbins, R.C. 1985. A field guide to western reptiles and amphibians. Second edition. Houghton Mifflin Co., Boston. 336 pp. University of California, Davis, Institute of Transportation Studies (UCD ITS). 1997. Transportation Project-Level Carbon Monoxide Protocol (UCD-ITS-RR-97-21). December. Unitt, P. 1984. The Birds of San Diego County. Memoir 13, San Diego Society of Natural History. 276 pp. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA). 2004. 2004 PM2.5 Designations. Available at http://www.epa.gov/pmdesignations/. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 1986. Endangered and threatened wildlife and plants; Least Bell's vireo; Determination of endangered status, and reopening of comment period in the proposed critical habitat designation. Federal Register 51(85): 16474- 16483. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 1999. Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants. 50 CFR 17.11 and 17.12. December 31, 1999. Page 80 Cannon Road Reach 4 PEAR 040801 IS Cannon RdReach 4 PEAR rev.doc 3/I6/200S APPENDIX A PRELIMINARY ENVIRONMENTAL STUDY FORM EXHIBIT 6-A PRELIMINARY ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES (PES) FORM PRELIMINARY ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES (PES) FORM TO: Local Assistance Engineer Caltrans District FEDERAL PROJECT NUMBER: N/A CITY OF CARLSBAD PROJECT NUMBER: 3814 FROM: City of Carlsbad 1635 Faraday Avenue Carlsbad, CA 92008-7314 Attn: Sherri Howard ph. 760-602-2756 FINAL DESIGN: Is this project "ON" the State Highway System? Q Yes E3 No IF YES, STOP HERE and contact the District DLAE regarding the completion of other environmental documentation FSTIP: N/A FY for which each Project Component is programmed for delivery in the FSTIP: PE FY _/ ROW FY / CONST FY / N/A (to be completed upon inclusion in FTIP) PROJECT DESCRIPTION AS SHOWN IN FSTIP: N/A DETAILED PROJECT DESCRIPTION: logical termini and independent utility) (Include scope of work, project limits, purpose and need, Scope of Work and Project Limits: The City of Carlsbad is proposing to construct the final segment of Cannon Road. Cannon Road Reach 4 will be extended from its existing terminus at College Boulevard and is classified as a major arterial in the Carlsbad Circulation Element. The proposed Cannon Road Reach 4 alignment would traverse properties owned by Carlsbad Unified School District, the State of California, and Paul K. Tchang. The remaining land consists of native vegetation that is protected under a Mitigation Bank or the City of Carlsbad Habitat Management Plan (HMP). The proposed typical section of the alignment would include two vehicle lanes and one bicycle lane in each direction, curb, gutter, sidewalk, and an 18-foot-wide landscape median. The project currently includes streetlights. Dry utilities are not included and storm drain facilities will be required. The project will be a multi-phased project. Purpose: Cannon Road currently exists between Interstate 5 and College Boulevard. The Cannon Road Reach 4 will complete the final link between Interstate 5 and the Carlsbad city boundary and is included in the Carlsbad Circulation Element. Need: The project is needed to complete the final link of Cannon Road in Carlsbad, relieve regional congestion, and accommodate the significant population and employment growth being experienced in the region. Current traffic demand in the project area meets or exceeds roadway capacity for many of the arterial roadways, and traffic growth is anticipated to continue such that, under the No Project scenario, Levels of Service (LOS) at a number of intersections would be expected to deteriorate to unacceptable conditions in the long term. The project will connect logical termini. The extension of Cannon Road, approximately one mile to the east of its existing termini will complete the final link between Interstate 5 and the Carlsbad city boundary. Preliminary traffic analysis has been completed and includes analysis of surrounding intersections and roadways and demonstrates a sufficient area of interest to address environmental matters on a broad scope. The preliminary traffic analysis also demonstrated that the proposed Cannon Road Reach 4 has independent utility. Based on the preliminary data the proposed alignment will operate at acceptable LOS at buildout and in year 2020 even if no additional transportation improvements in the area are made. PRELIMINARY DESIGN INFORMATION Does the project involve any of the following? Please check the appropriate boxes and delineate on an attached map, plan, or layout including any additional pertinent information Yes No El l~~l Any vegetation removal El [H Bridge work (If yes, discuss bridge type/approach work) Bridge design will take into consideration wildlife movement and will be at least 30 feet wide by 15 feet high with a maximum 2:1 length width ratio. The openness value will consider the height, width, and length (H8W/L) and will be greater than 0.6. 2 _ H S El G Construct access roads Disposal/borrow site(s) Drainage/culverts 3 CH Equipment staging _| IX] Flooding §LH Capacity Increasing |XJ Ground disturbance (outside of existing cut slope and all work outside the toe of fill) _] 1X1 Material site(s) g_: H New alignment Off-pavement detour _J IX| Will increase number of through lanes Yes No BEI Railroad E E El aaEI1*1 E a El Ramp closure B Realignment Removal of trees R/W acquisition (If yes, attach map/APN#'s) El Road cut(s) 1X1 Temporary road/Detour B Sound walls Stream channel work | | Temporary easements f utility relocation Widen existing roadway IXI Part of larger or adjacent project REQUIRED ATTACHMENTS: IXl Regional Map ^ Project Location Map Q Project Footprint Map (Showing Existing/Proposed ROW) l~~l Engineering drawings (Existing and Proposed Cross Sections), (if available) [U Borrow/Disposal Site Location Map (if applicable) Note: All maps should be at a minimum scale of 1" — 200' (1" = 60.96 meters) Maps may be ordered online at http://mapping.usgs.gov/ Exhibit 6-A, continued EXAMINE FOR POTENTIAL EFFECTS ON THE ENVIRONMENT, DIRECT OR INDIRECT, AND ANSWER THE FOLLOWING QUESTIONS (Utilize the notes page at the end of the PES Form to document conclusions) To Be A. The Physical Environment Yes Determined No 1. Is the project a Type I project as defined in 23 CFR 772.5(h); "construction on new location or the physical alteration of an existing highway, which significantly changes either the horizontal or vertical alignment or increases the number of through-traffic lanes"? E3 D D 2. Are there water resources (rivers, streams, bays, inlets, lakes, drainage sloughs) within or immediately adjacent to the project area? E3 fl [~1 3. Is project within a designated sole-source aquifer? I I fl E3 4. Is project within the State Coastal Zone? DDK 5. Is the construction area located within a regulatory floodway or within the base floodplain (100-year) elevation of a watercourse or lake? I I 53 [~l 6. Is the project within or immediately adjacent to a Wild and Scenic River System? D D E3 7. Is there a potential for a federally listed, threatened, or endangered species or their critical or sensitive habitat within the construction area? C>3 I I l~~l 8. Is there a potential for wetlands within the construction area? E3 CU CH 9. Is there a potential for agricultural wetlands within the construction area? I I l~l E3 10. Air Quality a. Transportation Conformity (Air) Does Transportation Conformity apply? E3 I II I b. Is the project exempt from the requirement to determine conformity (40 CFR 93.126)? D D S 11. Air Quality: Does the project have the potential for adverse emission impacts? EH 13 O 12. Is there a potential for prime or unique farmlands within or immediately adjacent to the construction area? DDK 13. Is there a potential for hazardous materials (including underground tanks) or hazardous material remains within or immediately adjacent to the construction area? IS D D Exhibit 6-A, continued To Be B. The Social and Economic Environment Yes Determined No 14. Are there any publicly owned public parks, recreation areas, or wildlife or waterfowl refuges [Section 4(f)] within construction area? [~l E3 l~1 15. Are there any aesthetically visual resources within the project area? CD H CD 16. Will the project require any right-of-way, including partial or full takes? Consider construction easements and utility relocations. I I E3 l~l 17. Is the project inconsistent with plans and goals adopted by the community? [~l |~] E>3 18. Will the project result in the need for public services, including utilities other than those presently available or proposed? l~l l~l E3 19. Will the project involve changes in access control? CD EH ^ 20. Will project involve the use of a temporary road, detour or ramp closure? CD K CD 21. Will the project reduce available parking? DSD 22. Will the project require future construction to fully utilize the design capabilities included in the proposed 23. Will the project generate public controversy based on potential environmental effects? [Xl l~l l~l 24. Will project construction encroach on State or federal Lands? E3 D D 25. Are there National Register listed or potentially eligible historic properties or archaeological resources [Section 106, Section 4(f)] NOTE: CT PQS DETERMINES APPLICABILITY OF .__. QUESTION #25. CD K CD 26. Is there a potential for the introduction or spread of invasive species? CD El CD Exhibit 6-A, continued SECTION C, D & E - CHECK APPROPRIATE BOX TO INDICATE REQUIRED TECHNICAL STUDIES, COORDINATION, PERMITS OR APPROVALS C. H N U U U U IXI H H U D REQUIRED TECHNICAL STUDIES NOISE STUDY X Traffic Related X Construction Related WATER QUALITY STUDY Discharge Dredged/Fill material (US waters) X_Construction in Navigable Waters Construction of Bridges/Causeways Across Navigable Waters ^Construction of Bridge X Stream or Lake Alteration NEP A/404 MOU SOLE SOURCE AQUIFER COASTAL ZONE FLOODPLAIN STUDY * WILD & SCENIC RIVERS BIOLOGY STUDY * WETLANDS STUDY * Agricultural Wetlands AIR QUALITY STUDY* FARMLANDS STUDY HAZARDOUS MATERIAL STUDY (Cleanup of Hazardous Material Sites) D. X X x~ X x — — — — X X x~ X — — COORDINATION E. FHWA FHWA U.S. Army Corps of Engineers X U.S. Army Corps of Engineers U.S. Coast Guard _ California Regional Water Quality X Control Board California Department of Fish & Game X FHWA EPA (S.F. Regional Office) _ State Coastal Zone Management agency (California Coastal Commission (CCQ) Federal Emergency Management Agency FHWA U.S. Department of Interior Heritage Conservation/Recreation Service FHWA _ California Department of Fish & Game X FHWA/EPA _ U.S. Fish & Wildlife U.S. Army Corps of Engineers X National Marine Fisheries Service Natural Resources Conservation Service FHWA _ Natural Resources Conservation Service U.S. Army Corps of Engineers I.CALIF. EPA; Department of Toxic Substances Control, Biennial Reports, Lists of Active Annual Work plan Sites 2. CALIF. Office of Planning and Research; Hazardous Wastes & Substances Sites List, List of Contaminated Sites 3. LOCAL; Health & Human Services Dept., Hazardous Waste Operations Div PERMIT/APPROVALS Issues Section 404 Permit Section 10 Permit Approves Plans Water Quality Certification Section 1601/03 Permit Contamination Threat Coastal Zone Consistency Floodplain Finding Sec 7 Consultation Incidental Take Permit Wetlands Findings Verifies juris, wetlands Verifies agri. wetlands Conformity Finding Verifies prime/unique Approves Conversions FHWA has responsibility for consultation under regulation or interagency agreement or FHWA has responsibility for a finding or determination required by law, regulation or Executive Order. Exhibit 6-A, continued c. m n Kl n D KI ixi REQUIRED TECHNICAL STUDIES SECTION 4(f) EVALUATION * SECTION 6(f) EVALUATION VISUAL IMPACT STUDY (AESTHETICS) RELOCATION IMPACTS STUDY SOCIO-ECONOMIC STUDY TRAFFIC SECTION 106 STUDY * Exempt Undertaking X_APE Map X Historic Property Survey Report (HPSR) D. X — x — — X x X X Xx x CONSTRUCTION/ENCROACH ON STATE LANDS Under State Lands Commission Jurisdiction X Under Caltrans Jurisdiction X CONSTRUCTION/ENCROACHMENT ON FEDERAL LANDS Additional COORDINATION E. FHWA X Public Official w/Jurisdictional Responsibility. SHPO/ACHP (as appropriate) DOI/DOA/HUDAJSDA (as appropriate) Park Official DOI FHWA State & Local Planning Departments Airports, Schools, State and Local Planning Departments FHWA Caltrans (PQS & DLAE approve APE) _ Caltrans Caltrans X Local Preservation groups and/or Native American Tribes FHWA X SHPO X State Lands Commission Caltrans X U.S. Bureau of Reclamation Private Land Owner studies may be required for other federal agencies. PERMIT/APPROVALS <UH Makes Determination MK* •ft WH*- %&. . ,, WP Determines whether project qualifies as exempt "** Determines applicability of Minimal APE ***' Approves document Provides comment on ** concerns with project Concurs or Consults with """ SHPO/ACHP Concurs *" M> General Permit/Revise General Plans ** Encroachment Permit wfe Encroachment Permit Right-of-Entry Permit "^ F. Public Hearing and Public Availability Not Required Notices of Availability Environmental Document ONLY X Opportunity for a Public Hearing Public Hearing Required FHWA has responsibility for consultation under regulation or interagency agreement or FHWA has responsibility for a finding or determination required by law, regulation or Executive Order. Exhibit 6-A, continued G. Preliminary Environmental Document Classification (NEPA) Based on the evaluation of the project, the environmental document to be developed should be: X Environmental Impact Statement Environmental Assessment Categorical Exclusion, with required technical studies (involving federal action) Programmatic Categorical Exclusion, without required technical studies Programmatic Categorical Exclusion, with required technical studies (not involving federal action) LOCAL AGENCY STAFF or CONSULTANT SIGNATURE Prepared by: Date Telephone #: LOCAL AGENCY PROJECT ENGINEER SIGNATURE: This document was prepared under my supervision, in accordance with the Local Assistance Procedures Manual, Exhibit 6-B, "Instructions for Completing the Preliminary Environmental Study Form." Signature local agency: Date: Telephone #: THE FOLLOWING SIGNATURES ARE REQUIRED FOR ALL PCEs, REGULAR CEs, EAs, AND EISs CALTRANS DISTRICT ENVIRONMENTAL OFFICE CHIEF (EOC) OR DESIGNEE SIGNATURE I have reviewed this Preliminary Environmental Study (PES) form and determined that the submittal is complete and sufficient. I concur with the studies to be performed and the recommended level of environmental document (if required). Signature EOC (or designee): Date: Telephone #: CALTRANS DISTRICT PROFESSIONALLY QUALIFIED STAFF (PQS) SIGNATURE I I Project does not meet definition of an "undertaking." No further review is necessary under Section 106. ("No" Sec B, #25) I I Project meets the definition of an "undertaking," involves the types of activities listed in Attachment 2 of the Section 106 PA, and, based on the information provided in the PES Form, does not have the potential to affect historic properties. ("No" Sec B, #25) l~l Project meets the definition of an "undertaking" and involves the types of activities listed in Attachment 2 of the Section 106 PA, but the following additional procedures or information is needed, to determine the potential for effect: ("To Be Determined" Sec B, #25) D Records Search D D D | I The proposed undertaking is considered to have the potential to affect historic properties. Further studies for 106 compliance are indicated in Sections C, D and E of this PES Form.c'Yes" SK B, «s> Signature PQS: Date: Telephone #: DLAE SIGNATURE: I have reviewed this Preliminary Environmental Study (PES) form and determined that the submittal is complete and sufficient. I concur with the studies to be performed and the recommended level of environmental document (if required). Signature DLAE: Date: Telephone #: THE FOLLOWING SIGNATURE IS REQUIRED FOR EAs, EISs, AND (WHEN RECOMMENDED BY THE EOC (or DESIGNEE), OR DLAE) FOR REGULAR CEs: FHWA SIGNATURE: I concur with the studies to be performed and the recommended level of environmental document. Signature FHWA: Date: Telephone #: Distribution: Original: District Local Assistance Engineer Copy: Local Agency Project Files, District EOC (or designee), District PQS PRELIMINARY ENVIRONMENTAL INVESTIGATION NOTES TO SUPPORT THE CONCLUSIONS OF THIS CHECKLIST The project consists of the extension of Cannon Road. It is located within the city of Carlsbad in San Diego County. The attached figures depict the regional and local settings of the project area. The Preferred Alternative Cannon Road alignment will extend from College Boulevard, northeast to existing Cannon Road in Oceanside. The project includes full width grading, four paved lanes, landscaped medians, bicycle lanes, sidewalks, drainage improvements, and environmental mitigation measures. The Cannon Road Reach 4 extension is needed to reduce congestion on several surrounding intersections as well as serve the proposed Calavera Hills Phase II development, which provides for a maximum of 781 residential units and 2 new community facility sites. Additionally, the proposed project will provide a direct connection to Oceanside. Currently, motorists traveling on Cannon Road must use El Camino Real or College Boulevard/Cannon Road to access Oceanside. In addition to providing a direct connection to Oceanside and relieving congestion on surrounding intersections, the extension of Cannon Road will have the following additional benefits: • Improve regional traffic circulation • Improve safety and traffic operations • Improve projected 2020 and 2030 traffic operation at: Melrose Drive and Cannon Road Melrose Drive and Sycamore Avenue Melrose Drive and Faraday Avenue Melrose Drive and Palomar Airport Two additional Build Alternatives for the Cannon Road Reach 4 Extension are under consideration. 04080118 PESform rev ORANGE / COUNTYS / P-A 71 / \ -• ,x:?' /,.'•-...RIVERSIDE COUNTY Rainbow SAN DIEGO COUNTY PROJECT LOCATION National City i Otay ReservoirChula Vista sWs Figure 1 Regional Map No Scale Cannon Road Reach 4 PES P:\2004~04080118 Carlsbad Cannon Rd Environmental Svc^6Graphkffigl_rmap.lhll (dbrady) 12/07/04 Cannon Road PROJECT LOCATION Figure 2 Vicinity Map APPENDIX B COMMUNITY IMPACT ASSESSMENT CHECKLIST APPENDIX B COMMUNITY IMPACT ASSESSMENT CHECKLIST 1.0 SOCIAL IMPACTS 1.1 Would people be displaced from their homes? No residential displacement would occur as a result of the proposed project. However, the proposed Cannon Road Reach 4 may potentially displace portions of the New Venture Christian Fellowship Church located at 4000 Mystra Drive in Oceanside, CA. 1.2 Would the availability of affordable housing be reduced? There are no affordable housing developments (existing or proposed) in the vicinity of the proposed project. The proposed project would not prevent the construction of any future affordable housing. 1.3 Would the community or neighborhood be significantly altered? No displacements of persons or residences are anticipated due to the proposed project. The New Venture Christian Fellowship Church parking area may be altered due to the proposed project. Impacts related to displacement of businesses would be limited to the removal of agricultural lands. The analysis of impacts with respect to visual quality, noise, and hazardous materials are currently not finalized. The proposed project would likely impact biological resources as it is currently scheduled to traverse lands designated as Existing Hardline Conservation Areas by the City of Carlsbad Habitat Management Plan. 1.4 Would minority or low-income populations be disproportionately affected? The proposed project's census tract, 198.06, has a significantly lower total minority population than that of San Diego County, which is 55 percent (Census 2000). The total minority percentage for tract 198.06 is 18.4 percent. Based on 2000 Census data for the geographic location of the proposed project with respect to median household income ($63,781), and the City of Carlsbad low income standard ($34,250), it is not anticipated that populations that are considered low income will be present in the community surrounding the proposed project area. Therefore, no disproportionate impacts to either minority or low-income populations are anticipated as a result of the proposed project. B-1 1.5 Would those who gain from the project be different from those who pay the costs and/or bear the effects? The project would be constructed using federal, state, and local funds. Specifically, the City of Carlsbad is attempting to secure federal funding via Local Assistance through FHWA and Caltrans. The proposed roadway would serve communities in the direct vicinity as well as commuters traveling to and from Oceanside. The commuters as well as the residents in the vicinity of the proposed project area contribute taxes of which a portion is applied specifically to transportation projects. A major goal of the proposed project is to reduce congestion, which is a benefit to both residents and commuters. 1.6 Would health, safety, or crime become worse? Given the historical presence of existing, heavily used roadways (Interstate 5 and State Route 78) in the vicinity of the proposed project area, no adverse changes in the areas of health, safety, or crime are anticipated as a result of the proposed project. In addition, the reduction of congestion as a result of the proposed project would potentially contribute to safer traffic flow, as well as the reduction of vehicle emissions in the vicinity of the proposed project. 1.7 Would public service delivery, such as fire, medical, police, or education be disrupted? No disruption to existing emergency services is anticipated given that the goal and anticipated result of the proposed project are to relieve existing traffic congestion and to improve access between Carlsbad and Oceanside. 1.8 Would aesthetics (including landscaping, lighting, noise, and odor) be noticeably altered? El Camino Real, which is located west of the proposed project, is considered a Scenic Roadway in the Carlsbad General Plan. Specific visual quality, landscaping, and noise issues are discussed in depth in the PEAR for the proposed project. 1.9 Would property values and/or the quality of life deteriorate? The proposed project was considered in two Environmental Impact Reports (EIRs) for housing developments within the city of Carlsbad, the Calavera Hills, and Catarini/Holly Springs. Neither EIR anticipates impacts to property values in the proposed project area. Anticipated property value impacts are related to the potential removal of agricultural lands. Given the nature of the proposed project, potential quality of life impacts are not anticipated to be substantial. B-2 ECONOMIC IMPACTS 2.1 Would businesses be removed? Impacts related to the removal of businesses would involve the removal of portions of agricultural land leased from Carlsbad Unified School District, and a portion of the New Venture Christian Fellowship Church parking area. 2.2 Would parking be substantially reduced? No parking spaces would be lost in the vicinity of the proposed project; however, a portion of the parking area for the New Venture Christian Fellowship Church may be relocated as a result of the proposed project. 2.3 Would businesses gain or lose opportunities because of changes in traffic patterns or visibility? Traffic patterns (both freeway and non-freeway) would remain similar to current conditions aside from the lessening of existing traffic congestion. No business would suffer from any visibility limitation. However, access impacts may occur due to relocation of a portion of the New Venture Christian Fellowship Church parking area 2.4 Would jobs or opportunities be changed? A limited number of construction job opportunities would be created during the period of construction. Permanent impacts to surrounding employment or commerce/economic patterns would be limited to leased farmland on property owned by Carlsbad Unified School District. 2.5 Would the tax base be altered (with secondary effects on public services)? The minor right- of-way acquisitions associated with the proposed project may slightly impact the surrounding tax base. No effects to public services are anticipated as a result of said acquisitions. 2.6 Would construction of the project affect the local economy? Impacts to the local economy through the construction or operation of the proposed project would be solely limited to the removal of portions of leased farmland on property owned by Carlsbad Unified School District. In addition, the local economy would remain unchanged during both construction and operational phases of the project. The use of local labor and the local procurement of materials, goods, and services would have an incrementally positive effect on the economy. B-3 PLANNING AND GROWTH IMPACTS 3.1 Would the project affect (or be inconsistent with) any relevant state, regional, or local plans? The proposed project would not be inconsistent with state or local plans in that it was included in the Circulation Element of the Carlsbad General Plan. However, because the proposed project would traverse lands designated as hardline preserve areas, consultation between California Department of Fish Game, United States Fish and Wildlife Service, and the City of Carlsbad is required to determine if local plans would need to be amended to further account for the proposed project. 3.2 Would the population increase significantly as a result of the project? No population growth is anticipated as a result of the proposed project. The proposed project will not open up an area for growth by increasing housing supply because it is located in an area surrounded by state and federal lands where development of housing is either very limited or prohibited. 3.3 Would the housing supply increase as a result of the project? As outlined in question 3.2, the housing supply would not increase as a result of the proposed project. 3.4 Would employment or business activity increase? For the duration of construction activities, the use of local labor and the local procurement of materials, goods, and services would have a temporary, incrementally positive effect on local employment and business activity. No permanent increase in employment or business activity within the surrounding areas is anticipated to result from the proposed project. 3.5 Would development opportunities be enhanced? No additional lands would be opened for development as a result of the proposed project. 3.6 Would the location of where growth occurs shift? The proposed project is not anticipated to alter any local or regional forecasted patterns of growth. 3.7 Would through-traffic in a neighborhood increase? Through traffic currently within the residential neighborhoods east of the project site, in Oceanside, and west of the project site, in Carlsbad, are a result of vehicles accessing B-4 the existing Cannon Road in Carlsbad via College Boulevard and El Camino Real. The proposed project would provide a direct route to the existing Cannon Road and thus reduce through traffic in these residential neighborhoods. The Southern Alternative would be in close proximity to the proposed Holly Springs Development, which would result in through traffic near the proposed residential development. 3.8 Would the project result in a loss of prime farmland, unique farmland, or farmland of state or local importance, or lands covered by the Williamson Act? The proposed project could potentially result in a loss of acreage from Carlsbad Unified School District. Given the limited nature of this loss in comparison to the total acreage of farmland of local importance in the county, and that the farmland in question is zoned for a school, the impacts, while adverse, are not anticipated to be significant. 3.9 Would the capacity of other services such as utilities or schools be pressured as a result of growth? As outlined in question 3.8, no growth is anticipated as a result of the proposed project. B-5