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HomeMy WebLinkAbout; Carlsbad Blvd Bridge Replacement Encinas Creek; Carlsbad Blvd Bridge Replacement Encinas Creek; 2006-07-20E0AW EDAW INC 1420 KETTNER BOULEVARD SAN DIEGO CALIFORNIA TEL 61 9 233 1454 FAX 619 233 0952 www.edaw.corr UNITED STATES AUSTRALIA July 20, 2006 Mr. Christopher M. Muehlbacher, P.E. Associate Engineer City of Carlsbad, Public Works - Engineering 1635 Faraday Avenue Carlsbad, Cahfomia 92008 .. RE: Encinas Creek Bridge Replacement Biological Resources Survey Dear Mr. Muehlbacher: The purpose of this letter report is to present the findings of the biological resource survey conducted for the Encinas Creek Bridge Replacement Project (project) to the City ofCarlsbad (City). The purpose of the biological survey is to (1) compile a list of plant and animal species that occur within the site, (2) identify plant communities and distribution, (3) summarize jurisdictional wetland delineation, and (4) identify potential opportunities and constiaints during proposed bridge replacement activities. The project is located approximately 0.5 mile south of Palomar Airport Road in Carlsbad, Cahfomia, between Island Way and Solamar Drive (refer to Figures 1 and 2). The survey boundaries were provided digitally by the City on October 18, 2005. The boundary was adjusted per the City's direction to limit the study area to the edge of northbound Carlsbad Boulevard. The study area is approximately 6.15 acres. The survey area, as provided by the City, includes approximately 500 feet north and 300 feet south of the southbound bridge, extending 200 feet east to northbound Carlsbad Boulevard, and extending west to the ocean. This survey provides necessary information to assist the City during the engineering and planning phase for the replacement ofthe southbound bridge. Project Description The existing bridge was built in 1928 and includes two southbound lanes. The bridge is approximately 65 feet wide by 26 feet long. Methodology Prior to conducting the field survey, a review of existing data from the Multiple Habitat Conservation Program's Vegetation Communities with Sensitive Species and Vernal Pools map for the Encinitas Quad (SANDAG n.d.) was performed to determine if there have been any occurrences of biological sensitive resotu-ces previously reported within or adjacent to the study area. In addition, a search of the DESIGN, PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENTS WORLDWIDE EDAW Mr. Christopher M. Muehlbacher, P.E. City of Carlsbad, Public Works -r Engineering July 20', 2006 Page 2 Cahfomia Department of Fish and Game's (CDFG) Califomia Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB) RareFind 3 version 3.0.5 was conducted. The City's 1999 Habitat Management Plan (HMP) and the North County Multiple Habitat Conservation Program (MHCP) were reviewed. Both the HMP and MHCP propose to identify how govemment agencies, in cooperation with federal and state wildlife agencies, can regionally preserve the diversity of species and habitat while allowing for development. Specifically, the HMP provides guidelines to address inipacts to vegetation communities, and plants and wildlife species in Carlsbad. A review of each document was included in the research for. this letter report. EDAW biologists John Messina and John Ko conducted a biological survey on October 26, 2005. The survey was conducted by walking through the site and recording plants and animals observed. Vegetation communities were mapped on a recent, color aerial photograph at a scale of 1 inch = 20 feet. A wetland detennination and delineation was performed pursuant to the Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual (Environmental Laboratory 1987). The survey began at 7:00 a.m. and the weather was slightly overcast with an approximate temperature of 70° F and a shght on-shore breeze, less than five miles per hour. Due to the project schedule, the survey was conducted at the time of year when spring ephemeral plant species and migratory animal species would not have been observable. Vegetation Communities The study area is divided by southbound Carlsbad Boulevard. The west side is predominantly sandy beach and the east side is predominantly normative vegetation with native vegetation concentrated adjacent to Encina Creek and remnant patches scattered throughout. The road is elevated above a trapezoidal profile constmcted of soil and reinforced with riprap on the west side. The ocean reaches the riprap placed at the road foundation during high tides. This portion of Carlsbad Boulevard is a divided road with southbound. lanes separated from the northbound lanes by approximately 200 feet of disturbed native and normative habitats. The road crosses historically low land that has remnant salt marsh species such as pickleweed {Salicornia spp.) and sah grass {Distichlis spicata). Much of the vegetation between the northbound and southbound lanes of Carlsbad Boulevard is dominated by the nonnative plant species Hottentot fig {Carpobrotus edulis). Encina Creek crosses under the portion of the bridge proposed for replacement. DESIGN, PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENTS WORLDWIDE EDAW Mr. Christopher M. Muehlbacher, P.E. City of Carlsbad, Public Works - Engineering July 20, 2006 " , Page 3 The habitat communities within the study boundary include beach, open water, disturbed salt marsh, disturbed coastal and valley freshwater m.arsh, disturbed wetlands,' disturbed southerii coastal bluff scmb, and disturbed habitat. In addition, developed areas occur within the study area. Each of the plant communities is described in detail below and depicted in Figure 3. Table 1 lists the acreage of each of these communities within the study area. See Appendix A for a list of individual plant species observed within the study area. Beach and Open Water ^ . The beach west of Carlsbad Boulevard is devoid of vegetation because of pubhc use. The open water is devoid of vegetation due tb permanent inundation. Disturbed Southem Coastal Salt Marsh Distiirbed southem coastal salt marsh is dominated by pickleweed, salt grass, alkali heath {Frankenia salina), and Hottentot-fig. Other species include Parish's glasswort {Salicornia subterminalis), pineapple weed {Amblyopappus pusillus), grass poly {Lythrum hyssopifolium), rash {Juncus sp.), annual beardgrass {Polypogon monspeliensis), coast goldenbush {Isocoma menziesii var. vernonoides), sweetclover {Melilotus sp.), and coyote bush {Baccharis pilularis). The plant community is identified as disturbed because of the possibility of fill dirt and encroachment by Hottentot-fig throughout the fill slopes and constmction of the northbound and southbound lanes ofCarlsbad Boulevard. Disturbed Coastal and Valley Freshwater Marsh The disturbed coastal and valley freshwater marsh is limited to the lower banks of the open water channel associated with Encina Creek. The freshwater marsh vegetation varies in width between 5 and 15 feet on either side of the open water. The plant community is dominated by broad-leave cattail {Typha latifolia), salt marsh fleabane {Pluchea odorata), and cocklebur {Xanthium strumarium). Pickleweed, giant reed {Arundo donax), and common celery {Apium graveolens) were also present, but in smaller numbers. This plant community is considered disturbed because of its relatively small size (0.5 acre) and encroachment by Hottentot-fig and trash washed from upstream, covering as much of the ground as the vegetation. DESIGN, PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENTS WORLDWIDE EDAW Mr. Christopher M. Muehlbacher, P.E. City of Carlsbad, Public Works - Engineering July 20, 2006 Page 4 Disturbed Wetlands The disturbed wetlands occur at a small swale, approximately 3 feet wide, that is approximately 50 feet east of the southbound bridge. The swale begins south ofthe study area at a culvert under northbound Carlsbad Boulevard and drains north into Encina Creek. For most of its length, within the study area boundary, the limits of the swale are difficult to discern because of the dense mat of Hottentot-fig. In some areas, the flow of this swale may be strictly subsurface. Curly dock {Rumex crispus) and spotted spurge {Chamaesyce maculata) are the two most common species in the swale. Other less common species are s'alt heliotrope {Heliotropium curassavicum), salt marsh fleabane, and cocklebur. Disturbed Southem Coastal Bluff Scmb Disturbed southem coastal bluff scmb is limited to a small patch of windswept lemonadeberry {Rhus integrifolia). Other species typical of this community were scattered in the disturbed areas within and immediately adjacent to the study area. These included saltbush {Atriplex sp.) and a single individual of Califomia desert- thom {Lycium californicum). This plant community is considered disturbed because of its extremely small size (less than 0.1 acre) and surrounding nonnative vegetation. Disturbed Habitat Disturbed habitat is the most prevalent plant community within the study area. This plant community is dominated by Hottentot-fig, which is the predominant cover throughout the study area. Other species present as minor components include crystalline iceplant {Mesembryanthemum crystallinum), Russian thistle {Salsola tragus), Australian saltbush {Atriplex semibaccata), common stock {Matthiola incana), pampas grass {Cortaderia sp.) and sea rocket {Cakile maritima). Several native species were scattered throughout the manufactured slopes such as Califomia buckwheat {Eriogonum fasciculatum ssp. fasciculatum), coastal cholla {Cylindropuntia prolifera), Califomia croton {Croton californicus), and ephedra {Ephedra sp.). These native species were extremely sparse, consisting of a few individuals each, and appeared to have only recently invaded the manufactured slopes, rather than represent remnant patches of historical habitat, as the sah marsh species seem to do. These patches of natives do not provide more than 10 percent cover and are therefore not considered native habitat. DESIGN, PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENTS WORLDWIDE EDAW Mr. Christopher M. Muehlbacher, P.E. City of Carlsbad, Public Works - Engineering July 20, 2006 Page 5 Developed Developed areas include areas of the road and shoulder that do not support any biological resources. Table 1 Vegetation Communities and Acreages within the Encinas Creek Bridge Study Area Vegetation Community ; Acreage Beach 0.90 Open water 1.36 Disturbed southem coastal salt marsh 0.58 Disturbed coastal and valley freshwater marsh 0.50 Disturbed wetlands 0.01 Disturbed southem coastal bluff scmb 0.04 Disturbed habitat 2.12 Developed 0.64 Totals 6.15 Wildlife Wildlife species within the study area are limited due to the lack and disturbed nature of the habitat. As discussed earlier, the habitat on the east and west sides of the bridge is distinctly different. A majority of vegetated areas, and hence wildlife habitat, occurs east ofthe bridge. The sandy beach occurs west ofthe bridge and as mentioned previously is devoid of vegetation. Bird species observed east of the bridge included great blue heron {Ardea herodias), black phoebe {Sayornis nigricans), song sparrow {Melospiza melodia), house finch {Carpodacus mexicanus), northem harrier {Circus cyaneus), red-winged black bird {Agelaius phoeniceus), mouming dove {Zenaida macroura), and common raven {Corvus corax). Califomia ground squirrel {Spermophilus beecheyi) burrows were also observed east of the bridge. Bird species observed west ofthe bridge included brown pelican {Pelecanus occidentalis), sanderlings {Calidris alba), and semipalmated plover {Calidris pusilla). Bird species such as northem harrier and common raven were only observed flying overhead, and the brown pelicans were observed flying over the incoming surf and not necessarily utilizing the study area. (See Appendix. B for a complete list of wildlife species observed within the study area.) DESIGN, PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENTS WORLDWIDE EDAW Mr. Christopher M. Muehlbacher, P.E. City of Carlsbad, Public Works - Engineering July 20, 2006 Page 6 Sensitive Vegetation Communities Sensitive vegetation communities are those regulated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE) pursuant to Section 404 ofthe Clean Water Act and Section 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act; regulated by CDFG pursuant to Sections 1600-1616 of the Califomia Fish and Game Code; regulated by the Califomia Coastal Commission (CCC) pursuant to the Califomia Coastal Act and federal Coastal Zone Management Act; or considered sensitive under the City's HMP (1999). The open water, salt marsh, coastal and valley freshwater marsh, and disturbed wetland habitats are all considered sensitive habitats regulated by the ACOE, CDFG, and CCC. These habitats are also considered sensitive by the City. The coastal bluff scmb is considered sensitive by the City (1999) and the beach is regulated by the CCC. In' addition, certain areas of the disturbed habitat are considered sensitive by the CDFG and CCC because these areas meet their definition of wetiands. By definition, wetiands have to meet three criteria (vegetation, hydrology, and soil) to be considered ACOE wetlands but only need to meet one of three criteria to be considered wetiands by the CDFG. Though the CCC extent of wetiands conforms to the limits of ACOE wetiands, the CCC takes jurisdiction of an additional 100 feet measured outward from the edge of the wetlands as a wetland buffer. Several areas of the disturbed habitat meet the hydric soil criteria and are thus considered wetlands by the CDFG and but not the ACOE. Portions of these disturbed areas also fall within the CCC 100-foot wetland buffer. Refer to fhe Wetiand Delineation Report for a more detailed description. Lastly, the CCC takes jurisdiction of all areas 500 feet inland of any beach habitat, which would include the entire study area. The project is located in Carlsbad and is subject to the City's Habitat Management Plan for Natural Communities in the City of Carlsbad (1999). The study area is not designated by the HMP as a Core, Linkage, or Special Resource Area. The study area faUs within Local Facility Management Zone 22 and the HMP vegetation map designates the study area as "disturbed" vegetation. In addition, the study area is not considered an Existing or Proposed Hardline Conservation Area or Proposed Standards Area as defined by the HMP. Sensitive Plant and Wildlife Species Sensitive species are those that are; • listed as endangered, threatened, or proposed for listing as endangered by the U.S. Fish and Wildhfe Service (USFWS); DESIGN, PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENTS WORLDWIDE EDAW Mr. Christopher M. Muehlbacher, P.E. City of Carlsbad, Public Works - Engineering July 20, 2006 Page 7 listed as endangered, threatened, or rare by the CDFG (2005a, b); considered "special vascular plants, bryopytes, or hchens" (CDFG 2005); on the Califomia Native Plant Society (CNPS) Inventory of Rare and Endangered Plants of California (CNPS 2001); considered "Special Animals" (CDFG 2004); or HMP "Covered Species" or "Narrovv Endemics" known from the City (City of Carlsbad 1999). Califomia desert-thom, a CNPS List 4 species, was the only sensitive plant species observed within the study area during the survey. CNPS List 4 species are species with "limited distribution or infrequent throughout a broader area in Califomia, and their vulnerability or susceptibility to threat appears relatively low at this time" (CNPS 2001). Only one individual was observed within the study area. The study area was surveyed extensively and the potential for other individuals occurring within the study area is considered low. The northem harrier, a CDFG "Califomia Special Concem species," and the great blue heron, a CDFG "Special Animal," were the two sensitive animals observed within the study area. There are many sensitive plant and animal species known from coastal communities within Carlsbad. Appendix C lists the sensitive plant and animal species known from the vicinity of the study area that could potentially occur within, or use the study area, based upon the presence of suitable habitat. Appendix D includes the USFWS concurrence letter regarding the listing of sensitive plant and covered species. None of these species were observed during the survey. Most of these species are either not expected to occur or have a low potential of occurrence due to the disturbed nature of the habitats within the study area. The sandy beach immediately west of the bridge is subject to ocean surf and tides. This area may provide habitat for gmnion {Leuresthes tenuis). Gmnion spawn between March and September depending upon the lunar and tidal cycles, with peak spawning mns between late March and early June. Gmnion is. a game species regulated by CDFG. The Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918 protects all migratory birds and most resident birds of North America, including bird species identified during the. survey. Some of DESIGN, PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENTS WORLDWIDE EDAW Mr. Christopher M. Muehlbacher, P.E. City of Carlsbad, Public Wiarks - Engineering July 20, 2006 Page 8 these common birds could potentially nest within the study area; however, the potential is relatively low due to the disturbed nature of the site. Wetland Delineation The study area does contain areas that are under the jurisdiction ofthe ACOE, CDFG, and CCC. Figure 3 depicts the areas of each jurisdiction. Areas under ACOE jurisdiction include nonwetland waters of the U.S. and wetlands within and immediately adjacent to Encina Creek: Areas under CDFG and CCC jurisdiction are inclusive of, but extend beyond the limits of ACOE jurisdiction (Figure 3). The Wetland Determination and Delineation Report for Encinas Creek Bridge Replacement is included as a separate attachment and describes in detail the results of the wetland determination and delineation. Approximately 2.3 acres of ACOE jurisdictional waters of the U.S. and 0.6 acre of wetiands, 3.6 acres of CDFG jurisdictional wetland habitat, and 5.0 acres of CCC jurisdictional wetlands (including the wetland buffer) occur within the study area. The acreages of CDFG and CCC jurisdictional wetlands include the 2.3 acres of ACOE jurisdictional waters ofthe U.S. and 0.6 acre of wetlands. The delineation report is subject to review and approval by the resource agencies (ACOE, CDFG, and CCC). Potential Biological Resources Constraints The sensitive habitats described above, (i.e., beach, open water, disturbed southem coastal salt marsh, disturbed coastal and valley freshwater marsh, disturbed wetlands, and disturbed southem coastal bluff scmb), especially those regulated by the ACOE, CDFG and CCC, pose the most likely constraint to the proposed project, because these resources are immediately adjacent to the bridge. Any potential impacts to these regulated habitats would require regulatory authorizations from these agencies and compensatory mitigation. Impacts to the Califomia desert-thom, which is located more than 100 feet from southbound Carlsbad Boulevard and the bridge, are not likely to pose a constiaint given the low population number, the relatively low sensitivity status of this species, and the very disturbed condition of its habitat. Though the surveys were conducted at a time of year when ephemeral sensitive plant species would not have been observable, it is anticipated that other sensitive plant species are absent from the study area due to its highly disturbed condition. 1 DESIGN, PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENTS WORLDWIDE EDAW Mr. Christopher M. Muehlbacher, P.E. City of Carlsbad, Public Works - Engineering July 20, 2006 Page 9 In addition, the area immediately west ofthe bridge is a sandy beach subject to ocean surf and tides. This area may provide habitat for gmnion. Gmnion spawn between April and August depending upon the lunar and tidal cycles. Gmnion are a game species regulated by the CDFG. It is anticipated that the CCC will also need to be consulted regarding potential effects to gmnion spawning.. Although somewhat limited, the study area potentially provides habitat for nesting migratory birds. Most of the area covered by Hottentot-fig is not suitable for nesting. Measures to Reduce Potential Impacts The following measures are preliminary and will be refined upon completion of engineering plans for the proposed bridge realignment and subsequent discussions with the resource agencies. Impacts to resources such as jurisdictional waters and wetlands, native habitat, and potential gmnion spawning areas should be avoided to the maximum extent practical during design and constinction. There is a paved shoulder on the east side of the road (south of the bridge) that could be. used for a staging area. In addition, any ofthe Hottentot-fig that is not considered jurisdictional can be used during constmction without constraint. Additional measures to reduce potential impacts are listed below. 1. Impacts to ACOE jurisdictional habitats would require the issuance of a Department of Army Permit (Nationwide Permit 14 for Linear Transportation Crossings is anticipated as the impacts to jurisdictional habitats are expected to be below the one-third-acre , threshold of tidal waters and non-tidal adjacent wetlands. Impacts to CDFG jurisdictional habitats would require a 1602 Streambed Alteration Agreement. Impacts to CCC jurisdictional areas would require a Coastal Development Permit. Issuance of a Department of Army 404 Nationwide Permit would require a Section 401 Certification from the Cahfortiia Regional Water Quality Control Board. Impacts to any jurisdictional wetiand habitats would require compensatory mitigation. The exact compensation requirements would be negotiated with the appropriate resource agencies (e.g., ACOE, CDFG, and CCC) during the permitting process.- However, federal, state, and local agencies generally require a no net loss goal of wetland habitat. It is assumed that the required mitigation ratios would vary depending upon the type of replacement habitat. 2. Appropriate Best Management Practices (BMPs) will need to be developed to minimize impacts to water quality. DESIGN, PLANNING AND E N V1 RO N M E N T S W 0 R L D WID E EDAW Mr. Christopher M. Muehlbacher, P.E. . City of Carlsbad, Public Works - Engineering July 20, 2006 Page 10 3. Though other sensitive plant species have a low potential for occurrence within the study area, if the area of potential impacts extends beyond the existing bridge footprint or beyond the limits of the manufactured slopes of the existing roadway, a spring rare plant survey should be conducted to verify the presence of sensitive plant species. 4. To verify if nesting birds are present during constraction, a qualified biologist should perform preconstmction surveys, prior to clearing of vegetation. 5. If grading impacts resulted in the loss of beach and/or southem coastal bluff scmb, the project would require compensation of habitat at a 3:1 mitigation ratio as required by the City's HMP. 6. Fee compensation is also required for the loss of the disturbed habitat, as required by the City's HMP. 7. Migratory nongame native birds are protected by the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918 (50 C.F.R. Section 10.13). To be in comphance with this Act, vegetation clearing should occur outside of the nesting season, generally March 1 through August 31. However, raptors can be active earlier (Febmary) and, if present, vegetation clearing would be restricted as early as Febmary. The resource agencies (USFWS and CDFG) require that direct and indirect impacts to nesting/breeding bird species be avoided. The agencies typically require a 500-foot buffer from constmction where nesting activities would have to be monitored. Potential harm to native avian species during this time frame can be avoided by confirming nesting birds, are not present prior to performing clearing and grabbing of vegetation. Once the vegetation is cleared, nesting birds are unlikely be an issue. 8. Minimize impact to beach sand during the gmnion spawning season (March - September). Since the gmnion spawning mns are influenced by tides, the CDFG publishes the "Expected Gmnion Run" on its website where it lists the expected dates and- times of the spawning rans. The affected beach area should be monitored by a qualified professional biologist. 9. There is a foot path that leads from the housing development northeast ofthe project site to an area approximately 100 feet north ofthe bridge. The CCC reviews coastal access and may require this trail to stay open or be rerouted during and after constraction activities. DESIGN, PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENTS WORLDWIDE EDAW Mr. Christopher M. Muehlbacher, P.E. City of Carlsbad, Public Works - Engineering July 20, 2006 Page 11 We can meet to discuss the results of the biological survey and mapping information at your convenience. Please feel firee to contact me at (619) 233-1454. Sincerely, Teresa Wilkinson Senior Project Manager Attachments: Figure 1-Regional Map Figure 2 - Vicinity Map Figure 3 - Biological Resources Appendix A - Plant Species List Appendix B - Animal Species List Appendix C - List of Sensitive Species within Project Vicinity Appendix D - USFWS Threatened/Endangered Species Letter, . April 2006 05080171 Carlsbad Bridge Bio Survey DESIGN, PLANNING ANO ENVIRONMENTS WORLDWIDE Literature Cited Califomia Departinent of Fish and Game (CDFG). 2003. Califomia Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB) RareFind 3. Califomia Department of Fish and Game (CDFG). Califomia Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB). 2005a. State and Federally Listed Endangered and Threatened Animals of California. January 2005. 11pp. Califomia Departinent of Fish and Game (CDFG). Califomia Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB). 2005b. State and Federally Listed Endangered, Threatened, and Rare Plants of California. April 2005. 14pp. Califomia Department of Fish and Game (CDFG). Califomia Natiaral Diversity Database (CNDDB). 2005c. Special Vascular Plants, Bryophytes, and Lichens List. April 2005. 88pp. Califomia Department of Fish and Game (CDFG). Califomia Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB). 2004. Special Animals. August 2004. 47pp. California Native Plant Society (CNPS) 2001. Inventory of Rare and Endangered Plants of California (sixth edition). Rare Plant Scientific Advisory Committee, David Tibor, Convening Editor. Califomia Native Plant Society. Sacramento, CA x + 388pp. City of Carlsbad. 1999. Habitat Management Plan for Natiiral Communities in the City of Carlsbad. Environmental Laboratory. 1987. Corp of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual. Technical Report Y-87-1. U.S. Army Engineer Waterways Experiment Station. Vicksburg, Mississippi. Hickman, J. (ed.). 1993. The Jepson Manual: Higher Plants of Cahfomia. University of Califomia Press. SANDAG. n.d. Vegetation Communities with Sensitive Species and Vernal Pools map for the Encinitas Quad. ORANGE COUNTY. RIVERSIDE COUNTY Rainbow SAN DIEGO COUNTY Figure 1 Regional Map Encinas Creek Bridge Replacement 2005\OSOaO171 South CarlsbadBMBridge\6Gr<^hia\Figuns\RegionalUap.fliU (P. Moreno) 11/23/05 Source: USGS 7.5-Minute Quadrangle, Encinitas Calif. (1975) 2000 1000 0 2000 Feet ^"•^ Scale: 1:24,000; 1 inch = 2,000 feet Figure 2 Vicinity Map Encinas Creek Bridge Replacement 200S\0Simt71 South CaHsbad Bridge\ClS\mxd\vicinlty map.mxd California Slate Plan, zone VI (P. Moreno) 11/22/05 Legend Vegetation Jurisdictional Waters and Wetlands CBS-d = Disturbed souttiern coastal bluff scrub ACOE jurisdictional waters of the U.S. CVFWM-d = Disturbed coastal and valley freshwater marsh SHH ACOE jurisdictional wetlands SM-d = Disturbed southem coastal salt marsh CDFG & CCC jurisdictional wetlands DW = Disturbed wetland cs: CCC Wetland Buffer OW = Open water • DP 1 -5 = Data Points with Data Forms DH - Disturbed habitat o Additional soil pits without Data Forms Beach = Beach Sensitive Species DEV = Developed O California Desert Thorn DEV = Developed (Lycium californicum) ORN = Ornamental Source: Aerial, contours, and project limit - City of Cartsbad ©50 25 0 Scale: 1:6C0; 1 inch = 50 feet 50 Feet Figure 3 Biological Resources Encinas Creek Bridge Replacement 2005\050S0ni South Carlsbad Bridge\GlS\mxitibiological resources.m.<d California Stale Plan, zone VI IP Moreno) 11/31/05 APPENDIX A PLANT SPECIES LIST APPENDIX A VASCULAR PLANT SPECIES OBSERVED The following vascular plant species were observ|ed in the study area by EDAW biologists John Messina and John Ko during site surveys conducted on October 26, 2005. * Introduced, nonnative species GYMNOSPERMAE C0NE-BEARING PLANTS Cupressaceae Cupressus macrocarpa Ephedraceae Ephedra sp. ANGIOSPERMAE: DICOTYLEDONAE Cypress Family : . Monterey cypress j Ephedra Family Mormon tea DICOT FLOWERING PLANTS Aizoaceae * Carpobrotus edulis * Mesembryanthemum crystallinum Anacardiaceae Rhus integrifolia Apiaceae * Apium graveolens Asteraceae Baccharis pilularis Baccharis salicifolia^ * Centaurea melitensis * Amblyopappus pusillus Gnaphalium californicum Heterotheca grandiflora Isocoma menziesii var. vernonioides Pluchea odorata Xanthium strumarium . Carpet-weed Family j Hottentot-fig j Crystal ice plant I Sumac Family I Lemonade berry cJrrot Family \ Common celery i . i ' . Sunflower Family I Coyote bush I Mulefat j Tocalote \ Pineapple weed j Califomia everlasting I Telegraph weed j Coastal goldenbush Marsh fleabane i Common cocklebur Boraginaceae Heliotropium curassavicum Borage Family Sah heliotrope Observed outside of study area. A-l Brassicaceae * Cakile maritima * Matthiola incana Mustard Family Sea-rocket Common stock Cactaceae Cylindropuntia prolifera Cactus Family Coastal cholla Chenopodiaceae Goosefoot Family Atriplex sp. Atriplex semibaccata Salicornia subterminalis Salicornia virginica Salsola tragus Saltbush Australian saltbush Parish's pickleweed Common woody pickleweed Russian-thistle Convolvulaceae * Calystegia sp. Morning-glory Family Moming glory Euphorbiaceae * Chamaesyce maculata Croton californicus Spurge Family Spotted spurge Califomia croton Fabaceae Lotus scoparius var. scoparius * Melilotus indica Legume Family Coastal deerweed Yellow sweetclover Frankeniaceae Frankenia salina Frankenia Family Alkali heath Lythraceae * Lythrum hyssopifolium Loosestrife Family Grass poly Nyctaginaceae Mirabilis californica Four O'clock Family Califomia wishbone bush Polygonaceae Eriogonum fasciculatum * Rumex crispus Buckwheat Family Califomia buckwheat Curly dock Solanaceae Lycium californicum * Nicotiana glauca Solanum americanum Nightshade Family Cahfomia box thom Tree tobacco White nightshade A-2 ANGIOSPERMAE: MONOCOTYLEDONAE MONOCOT FLOWERING PLANTS Cyperaceae Cyperus sp. Juncaceae Juncus sp. Sedge Family : Nutsedge Rush Family i Rush Poaceae * Arundo donax * Bromus diandrus * Bromus madritensis ssp. rubens * Cortaderia sp. Distichlis spicata * Polypogon monspeliensis Typhaceae Typha latifolia Grass Family ; Giant reed ! Ripgut grass ] Foxtail chess j Pampas grass Saltgrass ! Rabbitfoot grass I Cat-tail Family Broad-leaved cat-tail Taxonomy and scientific nomenclature conform to Hickman (1993). A-3 APPENDIX B i I ANIMAL SPECIES LIST APPENDIX B ANIMAL SPECIES OBSERVED This is a list of the conspicuous aerial insects, bony fishes, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals noted in the study area by LSA biologists. Presence may be noted if a species is seen or heard, or identified by the presence of tiacks, scat, or other signs. Species not native to the study area AVES BIRDS Pelecanidae Pelecanus occidentalis Pelicans Brown pelican Ardeidae Ardea herodias Herons, Bitterns, and Allies Great blue heron Accipitridae Circus cyaneus Hawks, Kites, Eagles, and Allies Northem harrier Charadriidae Charadrius semipalmated Plovers and Lapwings Semipalmated plover Scolopacidae Calidris alba Sandpipers, Phalaropes, and Allies Sanderling Columbidae Zenaida macroura Pigeons and Doves Mouming dove Tyrannidae Sayornis nigricans Tyrant Flycatchers Black phoebe Corvidae Corvus corax Crows and Jays Common raven Emberizidae Melospiza melodia Emberizids Song sparrow Icteridae Agelaius phoeniceus Blackbirds Red-wiriged blackbird Fringillidae Carpodacus mexicanus Fringilline and Cardueline Finches and Allies House finch B-1 MAMMALIA MAMMALS Sciuridae Squirrels, Chipmunks, and Marmots Spermophilus beecheyi^ Califomia ground squirrel Burrows observed. B-2 APPENDIX C LIST OF SENSITIVE SPECIES WITHIN PROJECT VICINITY APPENDIX C SENSITIVE SPECIES POTENTIALLY OCCURRING WITHIN THE STUDY AREA Species Status Potential for Occurrence Onsite Plants South coast saltscale {Atriplex pacified) CNPS List IB This aimual occurs in coastal bluff habitats. This species was not observed during the survey, which coincided with its traditional blooming period. This species is not expected to occur within the study area due to the lack of appropriate habitat and general disturbed condition of the study area. Lewis' evening primrose {Camissonia lewisii) CNPS List 3 This annual occurs in coastal grasslands. This species was not observed during the survey which did not coincide with its traditional blooming period (Mar.-April). This species is not expected to occur within the study area due to the lack of appropriate habitat. Orcutt's pincushion {Ciiaenactis glabriuscula var. orcuttiana) CNPS List IB This atmual occurs in sandy areas along the coast. This species was not observed during the survey which was conducted outside of its traditional blooming period (Mar.-May). This species has a low potential for occurrence within the study area. Sea dahlia {Coreopsis maritima) CNPS List 2 . This herbaceous pereimial occurs in scrub habitats along the coast. This species wis not observed . during the survey which was conducted outside of its traditional blooming period (Mar.-May). This species is not expected to occur within the study area due to the limited amount of appropriate habitat and the disturbed coiidition of that habitat. Del Mar Mesa sand aster {Coretiirogyne filaginifolia var. linifolia) CNPS List IB HMP Covered HMP Narrow endemic This herbaceous pereimial occurs in sandy, sometimes disturbed habitats along the coast. This species was not observed during the survey which was conducted outside of its traditional blooming period (July-Sept.). This species has a low potential for occurrence within the study area. Cliff spurge {Euphorbia misera) CNPS List 2 HMP Covered This shrub species occurs in scrub habitats along the coast. This species was not observed during the survey and is not expected to occur within the study area. Nuttall's lotus {Lotus nuttallianus) CNPS List IB This aimual occurs in sandy areas and beaches along the coast. This species was not observed during the survey which was conducted outside of its traditional blooming period (Mar.-June). This species has a low potential for occurrence within the study area due to the disturbed condition of any appropriate habitat. Coast wooly-heads {Nemacaulis denudata var. denudata) CNPS List IB This annual occurs in sandy areas and beaches along the coast. This species was not observed during the survey which was conducted outside of its traditional blooming period (April-Sept.). This species has a low potential for occurrence within the study area due to the disturbed condition of any appropriate habitat. C-1 Species Status Potential for Occurrence Onsite Estuary seablite {Suaeda esteroa) CNPS List IB This pereimial subshrub occurs in coastal salt marsh habitats. This species was not observed during the survey, which coincided with its traditional blooming period. This species is not expected to occur within the study area due to the disturbed condition ofthe appropriate habitat. Animals Westem snowy plover {Ciiaradrius alexandrinus nivosus) FT CSC This species nests in sandy areas typically along beaches. This species was not observed during the survey and is not expected to nest or breed in the study area due to the high recreational use ofthe beach. Least Bell's vireo {Vireo bellii pusillus) EE/FT Summer resident of low riparian growth (southem willow scrub) in the vicinity of water or dry river bottoms. Since there is no habitat present in the study area, the species would not be expected to occur. Belding's savannah sparrow {Passerculus sandwichensis beldingi) SE HMP Covered This species occurs in salt marsh habitats. This species was not observed during the survey and not expected to occur within the study area, due to the disturbed condition ofthe salt marsh habitat. Califomia least tem {Sterna antillarum browni) FE SE HMP Covered This species nests in sandy areas typically along beaches. This migrant would not have been observable during the survey. However, this species is not expected to nest or breed in the study area due to the high recreational use of the beach. Mexican long-tongued bat {Choeronycteris mexicana) CSC This species could potentially roost imder the bridge but was not observed during the siu^ey. This species is not expected to occur within the study area. Status Listings U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS): FE = Federal endangered; FT = Federal threatened Califomia Department of Fish and Game (CDFG): SE = State endangered; CSC .= Species of Special Concem Califomia Native Plant Society (CNPS): List IB: Plants rare, threatened, or endangered in Califomia and elsewhere List 2: Plants Rare, threatened, or endangered in Califomia, but more common elsewhere List 3: Plants about which we need more information - a review list City of Carlsbad Habitat Management Plan (HMP): Covered = Species that are covered under the Take Authorization of the HMP Narrow Endemic = Species that have a very narrow distribution C-2 APPENDIX D USFWS THREATENED/ENDANGERED SPECIES LETTER, APRIL 2006 1 United States Department of the Interior FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE Ecological Services Carlsbad Fish and WUdlife Office 6010 Hidden Valley Road Carlsbad, Califomia 92011 In Reply Refer To: SDG-FWS-4834.1 Mr. Christopher M. Muehlbacher, P.E. City of Carlsbad, Public Works 1635 Faraday Avenue Carlsbad, Cahfomia 92008-7314 APR 05 2006 ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT APR 0 1 2006 Re: Request for Candidate, Proposed, Threatened, or Endangered Species for the Carlsbad Boulevard Encinas Creek Bridge Replacement (Project No. 3919), Carlsbad, San Diego County, Califomia Dear Mr. Muehlbacher: The U.S. Fish and Wildhfe Service (Service) has reviewed the information provided in your March 24, 2006, letter to assess the potential presence of federally listed threatened, endangered, or proposed species at the above-referenced proposed project site. We do not have site-specific infonnation for your project area. However, the least Bell's vireo (Vireo bellii pusillus) and the westem snowy plover {Charadrius alexandrinus nivosus) are federally hsted endangered or threatened species that are known to occur in the general project area. No designated or proposed critical habitat occurs in tiie project area. I You should also contact die California Departinent of Fish and Game for State-hsted and sensitive species that may occur in the area of die proposed project. Please note tiiat State-listed species are protected under the provisions of tiie Cahfomia Endangered Species Act. i Should you have any questions regarding this letter or your responsibihties under the Act, please call Marci Koskiofmystaffat (760) 431-9440. ' Therese O'Rourke Assistant Field Supervisor TAKE PRIDE