HomeMy WebLinkAbout; Carlsbad Golf Course; Carlsbad Golf Course Mitigation Plan; 1998-09-02MITIGATION PLAN
CARLSBAD GOLF COURSE
CITY OF CARLSBAD
SAN DIEGO COUNTY, CALIFORNIA
Prepared for:
CITY OF CARLSBAD
2075 Las Palmas Drive
Carlsbad, California 92009-1576
Contact: John Cahill
Telephone: 760-438-1161
Prepared by:
P&D ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES
401 West "A" Street, Suite 2500
San Diego, California 92101
Contact: Betty Dehoney
Telephone: 619-232-4466
September 2, 1998
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION PAGE
1.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION 1
2.0 EXISTING CONDITIONS 2
3.0 IMPACTS 5
4.0 MITIGATION 7
4.1 Upland Mitigation 8
Carlsbad Golf Site 9
California Gnatcatcher Summary 14
Calavera Lake Site 17
4.2 Wetland Mitigation 18
5.0 METHODOLOGY 20
LIST OF FIGURES
1 Regional and Vicinity Map 3
2 Existing Resources on the Project Site 4
3 Potential Impacts of the Project 6
4 Preserved Habitat Within Designated Corridors 11
5 Revegetation on the Project Site 12
6 Final Conditions on the Project Site 13
7 Calavera Lake Off-Site Mitigation Location 19
LIST OF TABLES
1 Upland Impact and Mitigation Requirements 7
2 Wetland Impact and Mitigation Requirements 8
3 Proposed Upland Mitigation 8
4 Summary of On-Site Mitigation for Carlsbad Golf Course 10
5 Summary of California Gnatcatcher Impacts 16
6 Coastal Sage Scrub seed Mix 23
7 Native Grass Seed Mix 23
8 Wetland Seed Mix 28
City of Carlsbad Golf Course Project Team 29
City of Carlsbad Carlsbad Golf Course Mitigation Plan
Page i
_ 1.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
In 1989, Carlsbad voters approved a 2 percent increase in Transient Occupancy Taxes through
m Proposition M for the acquisition of land and the construction of an 18-hole golf course. The
M golf course was identified as a priority for utilization of the recreation funds derived from
Proposition M. In addition to the 18-hole championship golf course, the proposed project
* includes a clubhouse, maintenance facility, driving range, conference center, and pads for
ti industrial/golf related uses. An outdoor police shooting range will be relocated from its
location in the northeastern portion of the site to a location in the western portion of the site.
I* The 418-acre site is located in the northwestern quadrant of the City of Carlsbad. Palomar
Airport Road forms the southern boundary of the site, Hidden Valley Road forms the eastern
boundary, and the southern edge of grading for the future extension of Faraday Avenue forms
the northern boundary (Figure 1).
p
^ Prior to purchasing and designing the project, the City conducted a biological reconnaissance
and initiated consultation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and the California
p» Department of Fish and Game (CDFG) to determine the feasibility of constructing a golf
jn course on the project site. Indications from the USFWS were that the project appeared to be
feasible. Subsequently, the engineering design program incorporated information from
**• numerous biological focused surveys, which included sensitive habitat, animal, and plant
te species locations, in designing the course.
"*" To reduce the significant impacts to biological resources, this mitigation plan is proposed.
*•« The mitigation plan has been designed in consultation with the USFWS and CDFG.
From the outset this course was designed to minimize impacts to the sensitive resources on the
*"" project site. Prior to any public presentation of this design many initial design features or
^ course modifications were incorporated to reduce or eliminate impacts to known sensitive
resources. The following measures were taken to reduce impacts to sensitive biological
resources prior to, and during the golf course design process:
• Identified the agency preferred wildlife corridors.
• Agencies requested 600-foot wide corridor in the north and 800-foot wide corridor in the
*» south. The project was designed to preserve as much native habitat as possible in these
m areas. Areas within the corridors that required temporary disturbance or were occupied
by non-native will be revegetated with coastal sage scrub.
m • Extensive gnatcatcher surveys were conducted over multiple years.
Hi • Staked and surveyed riparian corridor and designed the project to minimize impacts to the
corridor.
• Conducted engineers on reconnaissance to facilitate design that impacted non-native and
** disturbed habitats first and reduced impacts to sensitive resources.
• Riparian cart crossing to hole #13 minimized to reduce impacts to Cannon Road riparian
^H
k»
City of Carlsbad Carlsbad Golf Course Mitigation Plan
Pagel
mitigation area.
p, • Fairway rough on hole #2 reduced in width to increase native vegetation and corridor
width following revegetation.
• Fairway rough on hole #2 reduced in width to increase native vegetation and corridor
m width following revegetation.
M • Fairway rough on hole #11 reduced in width to increase native vegetation and corridor
width following revegetaton.
* • Fairway on hole #13 pulled back to widen buffer around Cannon Road riparian mitigation
m area.
• Riparian cart crossing utilized existing agricultural access road.
* • Firing range rotated and redesigned to widen preserved corridor.
*" • Industrial pad redesign to reduce impact and increase corridor width following
revegetation.
if • Eliminated 3rd Tee on hole #5 to increase corridor width at crossing of College Avenue.
• Moved cart path around green # 15 to avoid gnatcatcher site #11.
jP
fa 2.0 EXISTING CONDITIONS
P»
^ There are five principal habitats located within the project site; in some cases, these habitats
can be further broken down into distinct forms of the primary habitats. Historically, the site
** has been used for agricultural purposes and the habitats are generally in various successional
ita stages. Native habitats are interspersed in non-native grasslands resulting in a mosaic pattern
on the site. Figure 2 illustrates the existing habitats on the project site.
<•* There are 80.2 acres of coastal sage scrub habitat present on the site. The functions and values
of the coastal sage scrub within the impact area vary greatly. The habitat ranges from a high
i quality, floristically diverse, native habitat to a lower quality, less diverse habitat with an
** abundance of non-native weedy species. The sensitive wildlife species present in the coastal
City of Carlsbad Carlsbad Golf Course Mitigation Plan
Page 2
t
c
c
I
I
I
I
i
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
E
^\/~A v>
..i>.':T\^j;., _ "/•""
XM^VXA VT^y j~= -.j "X •. •••> .-. \b'# -rVrK/*V^£'*ft&>\«*,-,2c/!\S r<; •.^;¥°"" i- "V'* -L_,\ V^--5--*-
.}' H"i»'i.-». t 5 '* '
"^^rs^-l NG-.'
~S_. r'
A f'.H
X 1*~~ ^-v »j)if''""'" v^ ~ • ,./ -- .y'v ir'"-T—-•-" . ~ . \~x?j —;« •-. »^•--v,,.,,^,../ .^••Ki^.,,-^>,.% ,... :>J>^u>!t^!\ v U.--
- ^-^^ r'/; " :<^^^-E3^^^C.-,. " • --..I J •-- .^v
^ /-.J" V ^S^^
XV-. 'v... >& •<•;• ^'- \ f »rr VI*. ,r.™ • . . *
^.VV-V; \"r '„ " "'• ''•*.„''^:>^^^^^^'^'^^^^^'^. i$>iiA
1| ^OJi^SITE^J^^^^
•?- %-:V-^ ^--^^-^--^^^^^^^^M^^ $^~^ ^>A^
\ % ^^2=^te'^ ' -^ r¥:^ - J^ISBS:^^%^"
""" T^&i ^&*& f-":^W^Sr~fe 4! —-^i4Q^"^£«*
•f ^ "i»'feX Vv''^ r'? ' T^^t? ~
v; ', '• ''• *\V^*f»*
Figure 1
Vicinity Map
Scale: 1"=4800'
Source: U.S.G.S. 15'Quadrangles; San Luis Rey,
Photorevised 1975; Encinitas, Photorevised 1975.
P&D Environmental Services
City of Carlsbad BEST ORIGINAL
Carlsbad Coif Course Mitigation Plan
I
I
I
I
CSS CWSMl SW SCRUBCSS-0 OOTJRSED OHSHl S*Sf SOWcss-«! oxsnt s«f scRus/wme txts/vs mm OUSSUMDSOMC soumew iwonuc ctw>ntRu.
SUC SOUIHERN UXtD OVfUXRM.
HUG WW-AHmC OUSSMM7
!F TOTHEy HHC (PUNTED)BJC BXHUPWS WCVDiJWD OISWKKD MIXACUWsueSOUIHERH muew SCRUB
RtPAKUH AND WETLANDS
RS PPHWI SCKUBUK H1W> RPUWrm FxcsmuER UVISHnr nupOKM. WCHAHDS
UKCC
CALIFORNIA GNKTCATCHER LEGEND
CMJFORNH OUT CmHDt SKHma
PREPARED BY:
RsD PAD CONSUL TANTS, INC.
401 WEST "A ' STREET, SUITE 2500
SAN DIEGO. CALIFORNIA 92101
TELE: (619) 232-4466 FAX 2J4-J022
EXISTING RESOURCES ON THE PROJECT SITE CITY OF CARLSBAD GOLF COURSE
18 HOLE CHAMPIONSHIP GOLF COURSE
CARLSBAD, CA SHEET I (V
sage scrub include the California gnatcatcher, orange-throated whiptail, and California rufous-
crowned sparrow.
Southern mixed chaparral occupies 4.99 acres of the proposed project site. The habitat present
on the project site is quite limited in extent and diversity. The chaparral is dominated by
chamise, which is the most common indicator of chaparral habitats throughout the state. The
area that will be impacted by the proposed project does not support a diverse assemblage of
species normally indicative of southern mixed or southern maritime chaparral. Southern
maritime chaparral is also located on the project site (1.77 acres); however, the project has
been designed to avoid this sensitive resource and it has been incorporated into a wildlife
corridor.
Grasslands occupy 201 acres of the project site including both non-native grass and native
components. The grasslands present are dominated by non-native species including slender
wild oat, ripgut brome, soft chess, red brome, perennial ryegrass, and foxtail fescue. The
native grasses are represented by small-flowered needlegrass and purple needlegrass with
several other species having very limited distributions on the site. There are approximately 2
acres of native grassland found on the site which are well integrated into the non-native
grasslands and do not function as a separate habitat.
.Disturbed areas including fallow and actively used agricultural lands and other unnatural
vegetation types occupy 104.95 acres of the site. These areas range from having no native
habitat to being dominated by non-native ruderal species with some recruitment of native
species. The areas designated as disturbed or agricultural have little or no habitat value for
native wildlife.
Wetlands and riparian habitats are limited to the streamcourse found on the project site.
Riparian woodlands dominate the riparian habitats with willow species being the most
abundant trees species. Some minor pockets of riparian scrub are located in isolated canyons
on the site. In a few areas where water collects and ponds, emergent riparian species occur,
including cattails, rushes, and sedges. In total riparian habitats occupy 25.09 acres of the
project site.
3.0 IMPACTS
The total grading footprint of the project covers 234.62 acres or 56 percent of the site (see
Table 1.). Based on the biological report prepared by Merkel and Associates, Inc. (Oct. 1997),
the project will impact 40.66 acres of Diegan coastal sage scrub, 3.2 acres of southern mixed
chaparral, 1.5 acres of native grassland, and 2.35 acres of wetland and riparian habitats. An
additional 181.05 acres of non-sensitive habitats will be impacted, including non-native
grasslands (164.64 acres), and agricultural and disturbed lands (24.89 acres). Figure 3 illustrates
the potential impacts of the proposed project.
City of Carlsbad Carlsbad Golf Course Mitigation Plan
Page 5
UPLANDS
CSS COfSOi SMX SCRUB
CSS-D OGWRKV OMSHi SMC SCRUBCSS-HO CQtSTM. SMX SOHIB/NUNE GKASSLWD
HB HX1NC OUSSUW!
sueHHG
IPCUCD
ACmnost/s
somem HKB> awuvw.
NON-kOM dUSSLMD
TOtXT PKC (HAIO&)
eiKH.1fJVS WOOHANO
HSKCULWML LANDSLtms&ftsotmenH miow SCRUB
RfAHMI AND WETLANDS
RS
UKrmtTW
RlPMtWI SCRUB
UKCD OPMtN
FKSHWIB1 UIXSH
TBtPWi KE7WMB
ItXBl RPtKHH
CAUFORHIA GMKXTCHfR LEGEND
CVJFORNU UNfiT OmHBI SKH7WO
_•_ • C/UfDmit OUT C4TCHB! SPOT
E3
PREPARED BY:
RsD P&D CONSUL TANTS, INC.
401 WEST "A" STREET, SUITE 250O
SAN DIEGO. CALIFORNIA 92101
'TELE: (619) 2J2-4466 FAX 234-3022
POTENTIAL IMPACTS OF THE PROJECT CITY OF CARLSBAD GOLF COURSE
18 HOLE CHAMPIONSHIP GOLF COURSE
CARLSBAD, CA
4.0 MITIGATION
The mitigation plan will consist of an upland and wetland component. Mitigation for upland
resources will follow the plan presented in the City of Carlsbad Draft Habitat Management
Plan (HMP). The plan follows the requirements recommended by the USFWS for
preservation of sensitive habitats. If the Draft HMP is not implemented, the mitigation will
be appropriate for the site. The wetland component will follow generally accepted ratios for
similar projects impacting wetlands. According to the Draft HMP, impacts and mitigation
requirements for the upland habitats are as follows:
Table 1
Upland Impact and Mitigation Requirements
Upland Habitat
Diegan Coastal Sage Scrub
Southern Mixed Chaparral
Non-native Grassland
Native Grassland
Disturbed/ Agricultural
Total
v Impacted
40.66
3.2
164.64
1.5
24.89
234.62
Ratio
2:1
1:1
0.5:1
2:1
0
Mitigation
81.32
3.2
82.32
3
0
169.84
According to the Draft HMP and proposed habitat management plans, mitigation should
include a combination of on-site and off-site preservation and/or enhancement. This project
includes a combination of both and is detailed in Section 4.1.
Mitigation for "Waters of the U.S.," wetland, and riparian impacts is also planned. This
report will briefly discuss wetland and riparian habitat mitigation measures and the critical
elements of the riparian mitigation plan. However, a detailed riparian mitigation plan will be
prepared for subsequent permitting programs based on the requirements of the individual 404
Permit, Section 1601 Agreement, and 401 Water Quality Certification.
The wetland mitigation plan will be based upon the following ratios:
City of Carlsbad Carlsbad Golf Course Mitigation Plan
Page/
Table 2
Wetland Impact and Mitigation Requirements
"Wetland" Habitat
Southern Willow Scrub
Mule Fat Scrub
Freshwater Marsh
Riparian Herb
Non-Wetland Waters
Total
Impacted
.82
1.26
.03
.24
.66
2.35
Ratio
2:1
1:1
1:1
1:1
1:1
Mitigation
1.64
1.26
.03
.24
.66
3.83
4.1 Upland Mitigation
The impacts to upland habitats, including Diegan coastal sage scrub, will be mitigated as
specified in this document, which will be consistent with, or better than the requirements of
the City's Draft Subregional Habitat Management Plan. Thus, should the HMP be delayed or
eliminated, the mitigation will still be appropriate for the project.
The mitigation plan for uplands will consist of preservation and enhancement at the Carlsbad
Golf and Calavera Lake sites. The details of each program are described below. This table
shows over 341 acres mitigation. The on-site preservation and enhancement acreage totals
211.70 acres. This includes the 105 acres in the agency reviewed corridors, as well as 106.70 acres
which was not disturbed or revegetated. This 106.70 acres, although "credit" is not being
received, is a valuable contribution to the overall mitigation. Some of these areas are located
between holes or are located in smaller pockets. Because the project is a golf course (versus and
industrial development) these areas will provide some wildlife value (e.g. wildlife migration). As
discussed earlier, the mitigation requirements for the project entail 170 acres. This plan proposes
the following upland mitigation (Table 3.):
Table 3
Proposed Upland Mitigation
Location
On-site Preservation and Enhancement
Calavera Lake Preservation and Enhancement
Total
Mitigation
211.70 acres
130.00 acres
341.70 acres
The mitigation identified in Table 3 presents all of the preserved and/or enhanced habitats for
both the on-site and Lake Calavera components. This table identifies approximately 340 acres
City of Carlsbad Carlsbad Golf Course Mitigation Plan
Page 8
** of "mitigation"; however, the "mitigation acreage" does not equate on a one to one basis
related to the requirements for mitigation credits, as identified in Table 1. The difference
between the "mitigation acreage" and the "mitigation credits" is due to a difference in quality
and contiguousness/connectivity of the mitigation areas. The resources agencies have
jp, indicated that "mitigation credits" for the on-site component will be allowed for large
, contiguous blocks of habitats. A meeting was held with the resources agencies to identify
those areas which would receive "credit". These areas are delineated on Figure 4. The acreage
pi within those blocks of habitat is 105 acres; therefore, the on-site credit for mitigation totals
jy 105 credits. The mitigation requirement for the project is 170 credits (Table 1). The deficit
between the requirement and the on-site mitigation is 65 acres (170 credits-105 acres). Off-site
* mitigation of 65 credits is necessary. The City has decided to provide the off-site mitigation at
ll Lake Calavera. The site has a limited number of California gnatcatcher pairs (2-3 pairs);
however, the site does support the sensitive plant species Adolphia and provides important
* corridors to both Agua Hedionda and Buena Vista Lagoon. Due to the potentially lower
^ habitat quality at Lake Calavera, it was determined that a 2:1 mitigation ratio was necessary to
offset the values at the proposed golf course site. Because the project needs 65 credits off-site,
130 acres (2:1 ratio) is being proposed for mitigation. Although a total of 341.70 acres are
being preserved and/or enhanced both on-site and at Lake Calavera, this equates to 170
m credits.
** Carlsbad Golf Site
«•
Ig On-site mitigation will be in accordance with the plans found at the rear of this report. The
summary of actions is that at various locations within the proposed golf course, 48.3 acres of
«* coastal sage scrub will be preserved in major blocks of contiguous habitat and 49.34 acres
m impacted or non-native habitats will be revegetated to coastal sage scrub for mitigation credit.
In addition, 29 acres of natural upland habitat and non-native grasslands will not be impacted
** by site development. In total, 211.70 acres of the project site will be preserved and/or
*» restored. Table 4 details habitat preservation and restoration proposed on the project site.
Figure 4 illustrates habitat preservation areas within designated corridors on the project site.
Figure 5 illustrates the areas that will be revegetated with coastal sage scrub, either by
** conversion of non-native habitats or restoration of impacted areas. This relatively large area
of preserved and/or restored open space will provide substantial habitat value and habitat
linkages to local wildlife species. As discussed in the EIR, "These connections could continue
to exist in a modified form, which is capable of being substantially enhanced with site sensitive
«• revegetation and environmentally sensitive golf course planning."
g§
The open space preserve areas are generally located along the creek channel that connects to
*» Agua Hedionda lagoon in the west. This arrangement of open space will facilitate its use as a
IB wildlife corridor as several adjacent habitat types provide diversity and continuity. The open
space corridor system provides connectivity with habitat to the south, albeit necessitating
*• crossing Palomar Airport Road as well as the connection of Agua Hedionda lagoon. Figure 3
fef illustrates the preserved open space corridors on the project site. Figure 6 illustrates the
proposed final condition of the project site following habitat restoration.
p
*City of Carlsbad Carlsbad Golf Course Mitigation Plan
Page 9
P
Table 4
Summary of On-site Mitigation for Carlsbad Golf Course
Habitat Types
Coastal Sage Scrub
Southern Mixed
Chaparral
Southern Maritime
Chaparral
Non-Native Grasslands
Native Grassland
Disturbed/Agricultural
"WetlandVRiparian
Torrey Pine
Landscaped
Developed
Total
Within Open Space
Corridor System*
Preserved Not
Enhanced
35.6
2.04
1.77
10.85
0.09
1.48
0.11
0.15
0
0.75
52.84
Supplemental
Revegetation
49.34
2.82
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
52.16
Outside Open Space
Corridor System
Preserved Not
Enhanced
12.70
0.36
0
13.74
0
6.48
22.63
0
0.57
4.24
60.72
Revegetated
31.77
3.21
0
0
0
11
0
0
0
0
45.98
Total After
Revegetation
129.41
8.43
1.77
24.59
0.09
18.96
22.74
0.15
0.57
4.99
211.70
Note: *Corridor System was designed in coordination with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and California
Department of Fish and Game.
City of Carlsbad Carlsbad Golf Course Mitigation Plan
Page 10
I
I
LEGEND
UPLANDS
CSS COASTAL SAOf SOWSCSS-0 DtSWaCD COASTAL SASC SCRUB
CSS-HG CMSTAL SASf SCftJB/mWt GRASSLAND
IK HOK GRASSLANDScuc some* uAime CHAPARRALsue samm urns CHVAMAL
1?OKDASmmsws
rORKT Ptg (JVOTBWCIKM.1PWS WOOOiAND
osnaaai Mas
tOSKULTUKH. LHCS
soumESN wm.aw SCRUB
RIPMUN UP HfTLWDS
KS
UKnma
aiPMUH satus
JfUKKAL KMNOSUKCB RPARHH
CMJFORNU GHATCATCHfR LEGEND
CAUFOKHA oar armo? siOHme
GfUPHIC SCAX- I""
PREPARED BY:
PAD CONSUL TANTS, INC.
401 WEST "A" STREET, SUITE 2500
SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA 92101
'TELE: (619) 232-4466 FAX 2J4-J022
RsD PRESERVED HABITA T WITHIN DESIGNA TED CORRIDORS CITY OF CARLSBAD GOLF COURSE
18 HOLE CHAMPIONSHIP GOLF COURSE
CARLSBAD, CA
ankdor
I
I
LEGEND
UPLANDS
CSSCSS-0
CSS-HGm
sue
HNC7Fcue0mIAMOSWS
COWHt S*Cf SCRUBmsniKBen count s*sf sews
CO4SW. S»fiC SOKB/Wmt GRASSUNCiMU't fifttSSUMBsotmefiN mame avfuwisaunas uact> ctw/naw.HOH-tUMf iMSSUNDroam me (flAHIOtl
OBWKDM&S
ASHCULKHIM. LtNDSUWSOftSOUmCMt WHLOW SCRUB
AND WETLANDS
RSUP nPNWM SCRUBUKCD WMVI
meow, wnuvcsUIXSE Hpmvn
CAUFORHIA GHATCATCHER LEGEND
OUT CATCHER s/SHmc
GMDINC momtn
PREPARED BY:
RsD P&D CONSUL TANTS, INC.
401 WEST "A" STREET, SUITE 2500
SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA 9210!
' TELE: (619) 232-4466 FAX 2J4-3022
REVEGETA TION ON THE PROJECT SITE CITY OF CARLSBAD GOLF COURSE
18 HOLE CHAMPIONSHIP GOLF COURSE
CARLSBAD, CA
O4fT S/J/98
SHEET 1 OF
avnunr
LEGEND
UPLANDS
COASTAL SWf SCRUBDKTUHSCD COASTAL SAG£ SCTi/SCOASTAL SAX scxw/wmc OXASSUMOmmf GKASSUNDsoummj ummue CHAPAHW.SOUWCXH uxec CWPUW.
HCf,-fUWE ORtSSUWO
HOOOLWO
CSS
CSS-0
CSS-NGmSaUCsue
HHCTP
RK
DASLANS
SWS
RIPARIAN AND HfTLANDS
SOWHSW HUOW SCRUB
K
UK
fWU
Kifuwi sens
UKCD RIPfOfM
FReSHHAlER UtKSH
WIPORH. WUIMIDS
UIKOJ RPMttW
OLfOlWIA ONATCATCHER LEGEND
CXJVRHU OW CATCHER SKtHTKC
PREPARED BY:
RsD PAD CONSUL TANTS, INC.
10t WEST "A" STREET, SUITE 2500
SAN DIEGO. CALIFORNIA 92101
TELE: (619) 232-4466 FAX 2J4-3022
FINAL CONDITIONS ON THE PROJECT SITE CITY OF CARLSBAD GOLF COURSE
18 HOLE CHAMPIONSHIP GOLF COURSE
CARLSBAD, CA
** Carlsbad Golf Course California Gnatcatcher Summary
Seventeen California gnatcatcher active use areas (AUAs) were documented during recent field
programs. Eleven of those active use areas are preserved by the current golf course design.
m Following revegetation, it is expected that recruitment into new habitat will create new active
gg use areas on the golf course site. Based on the revegetation of 82 acres of non-native grass and
developed areas to coastal sage scrub and the spatial orientation on the existing pairs, it is
* likely the site could support 13 gnatcatcher pairs. Table 5 presents a synopsis of all of the
H California gnatcatcher use areas and design efforts conducted to avoid and/or minimize
impacts to occupied coastal sage scrub habitat. Figure 6 illustrates the ultimate proposed
* condition of the site in relation to California gnatcatcher AUAs.
The species of primary focus in the discussions with the wildlife agencies has been the
y threatened California gnatcatcher. Merkel and Associates (MA) reported a total of 17 pairs on
and adjacent to the site. This appears to be a relatively large number of gnatcatchers for a site
-I that is composed of a large amount of ruderal habitat and relatively small patches of suitable
^ habitat. The past couple of years have been very productive years for gnatcatchers due to the
good weather conditions. Additionally, recent habitat loss due to development activities west
p and south of the site may have forced gnatcatchers into using smaller than normal patches and
H lower quality habitat. It is likely in the next couple of years that the number of pairs onsite
will "relax" to a lower population size. This population dynamic phenomenon has been noted
•P on other sites where habitat loss in adjacent areas has forced pairs to pack into the remaining
II habitat. Irregardless of whether the site population is artificially inflated for a short period,
the site supports a lot a gnatcatcher pairs and the impact and proposal to mitigate for the
** impact needs to be addressed.
to
Ten (10) pairs clearly appeared to be using habitat patches that are within the site, i.e., pairs 1,
2, 3, 4, 7, 8, 9, 13, 14 and 17. Seven (7) pairs appeared to be using habitat patches that are on
the site periphery and extend offsite, or are offsite altogether but may occur onsite
^ occasionally in defense of their territory. Because, based on the surveys it appeared the total
of 17 pairs may not all belong on the property, MA conducted a specific "scatter study" at the
City's direction to determine the use characteristics of many of the edge pairs.
M
^ The mitigation plan includes a summary of the impacts to California gnatcatchers on a
location-by-location basis. We believe that by coupling this pair-by-pair analysis with an
m analysis of the mitigation plan for the site, that a reasonable estimate of the range of impacts
Hi can be obtained. Following is our explanation of this analysis.
** Of the 17 pairs reported by MA, three (pairs 1, 2, 3) occur in small habitat patches that will be
II 100% lost. There is no habitat anywhere in the immediate vicinity that these pairs may move
into. The scatter studies indicate that six (6) pairs, i.e., 5, 6, 10, 11, 12, 15, occur
* predominantly offsite, and we conclude that there would be minimal direct impacts to these
™ pairs. Of the remaining eight (8) pairs, i.e., 4, 7, 8, 9, 13, 14, 16, and 17, the habitat is
adequately conserved or that project design modifications probably will result in adequate
^^igjd
City of Carlsbad Carlshad Golf Course Mitigation Plan
Page 14
*" habitat conservation in a configuration and patch size that will allow some of them to persist.
Pairs 8, 13 and 16 would be lost and pairs 4, 7, 9, 14, and 17 would persist because a
combination of factors including: impacts are very small in comparison to overall assumed
use area size, habitat enhancement will occur, and the pairs use at least some habitat offsite.
m One pair, pair 9, will be impacted somewhat by the project and may be considered to be
m "taken". It appears that here will be adequate habitat within in the vicinity of the territory to
support this pair, the conservative analysis may conclude the pair is lost. Therefore, to
m summarize, we believe that based on this type of analysis, six (6) to seven (7) pairs would be
m lost.
** To accompany this type of analysis, the existing density of gnatcatchers, distribution of
il habitat patches, size of habitat patches and habitat connectivity were evaluated. We believe
the results are complimentary. Currently, California gnatcatchers are using approximately 80
ft acres of coastal sage scrub habitat on the site. Other habitats occur on the property as well,
™ and these probably are used to some degree, however we have no method to estimate the
amount used. Therefore, this is a fairly conservative estimate. Based on the existing 80 acres
1 of coastal sage scrub habitat and discounting the six that are entirely or predominantly offsite,
there are 11 pairs using 80 acres of coastal sage scrub. This is 7.3 acres per pair. Following
p» project completion, there will be 95 acres of coastal sage scrub in contiguous patches.
i Additional grassland, riparian and chaparral habitats also will occur. Based on the after-
project 95 acres of coastal sage scrub and a density of 7.3 acres per pair, not including the
^ additional habitats and not discounting the amount of habitat that would be used by the
y peripheral pairs, one would expect 13 pairs of California gnatcatcher to occupy the site, plus
those that occur at the periphery. Although this method is not without problems, the result
f* suggests that onsite restoration would result in a significant number of gnatcatchers remaining
fc» on the site after development.
City of Carlsbad Carlsbad Golf Course Mitigation Plan
Page 15
Pairs
1-3
•ft
m
mm
M
mm
6-7
8-9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
Table 5
Summary of California Gnatcatcher Impacts
Impacts and Avoidance Strategy
These pairs are located in the southwest corner of the proposed golf course near Hidden Valley Road
and Palomar Airport Road. These pairs could not be avoided.
This pair is located within the intact parcel of coastal sage scrub (CSS) in the northwest portion of the
golf course. This area is adjacent to a large area of non-native grasslands (NNG) that will be
revegetated with CSS to increase the corridor with and provide more habitat for the gnatcatchers.
This pair occupies the northwest corner of the proposed golf course, north of a large area of preserved
CSS and south of a large plot of NNG. The plot of NNG will be revegetated with CSS to provide the
birds that are being displaced by the project an opportunity to relocate. A survey was conducted to
determine the habitat use area for the pair. Throughout the survey, this pair consistently used the off-
site habitat to the west and a portion of the NNG on the site. This site will not be impacted by
construction and will be enhanced to encourage future gnatcatcher occupation.
These pairs are located in the northwest corner of the proposed golf course in existing NNG north of
a patch of CSS. These sites will not be impacted but enhanced. The NNG area will be revegetated
with CSS to create and widen the corridor of CSS for birds to use during migration to adjacent sites.
These pairs are located in the central area of the proposed golf course north of College Boulevard.
Impacts to the habitat of pair 8 could not be avoided. However, there is suitable habitat east of the
site to provide an opportunity for the bird to relocate. This area is a mix of CSS, NNG, and
eucalyptus. The NNG area will be revegetated with CSS to provide the birds with more habitat and
create a corridor. The AUA of pair 9 will be partially impacted. This site is predominately CSS that
has been developed in the past. As previously stated, the area to the east of the site will be enhanced
and expand the area of appropriate habitat for the birds to relocate. Based on existing preserved
habitat amd futures revegetation it appears that two pairs will be supported.
This pair occupies the very edge of the northeast corner of the proposed golf course. The AUA will
not be impacted.
Pair 11 is located in the northeast corner of the golf course south of pair 10. A survey was conducted
to determine the area utilized by the pair. The on-site part of the habitat utilized by this pair could
not be avoided. However, most of the habitat utilized by the pair is located off-site, and the project
will have a minimal effect on the pair due to the redesign of the golf can path.
The AUA of this pair is located on the southeast central edge of the property in CSS habitat and north
of College Boulevard. A survey was conducted and determined the pair was predominately utilizing
habitat adjacent to the site. There will be minimal impacts to the pair and the revegetation of the
manufactured slope will provide supplemental habitat availability.
This pair occupies habitat located adjacent to the northeast end of College Boulevard where it exits the
property. This habitat could not be avoided. There is unoccupied habitat northwest of the AUA
providing a relocation opportunity for the pair.
This pair occupies the existing corridor of CSS south of College Boulevard. The temporarily impacted
area north of the CSS will be revegetated with CSS to expand the corridor area.
The pair is located in the far southeast portion of the property.
that will not be impacted.
The territory is dominated by CSS
The pair is located in previously disturbed CSS. This territory could not be avoided. The survey
showed the pair utilizing habitat adjacent to the property and a portion of the developed area. Even
though the on-site habitat will be impacted, there is habitat east of the territory that the pair currently
utilizes, and may use to relocate.
The pair occupies the southwest portion of the property south of College Boulevard. The territory
will be minimally impacted. However, the CSS corridor north of the territory will be expanded to
support more birds.
City of Carlsbad Carlsbad Golf Course Mitigation Plan
Page 16
Calavera Lake Site
*•>
** The proposed off-site mitigation area is a portion of a 266-acre parcel that surrounds Calavera
Lake in northeast Carlsbad, San Diego County, California. It is in an unsectioned area of
Township 11 South, Range 4 West, San Bernardino Baseline and Meridian on the USGS San
Luis Rey 7.5-minute quadrangle map. The approximate latitude and longitude of the site is
m 33°10'20" and 117°17.' The mitigation site location is illustrated on Figure 1.
m
Calavera Lake is part of the City of Carlsbad's emergency water storage system, which will
if supply potable water during water shortages. The lake will continue to serve this function. At
tt the present time, all of the land offsite to the north and west is developed or being developed
for residential uses. The land to the south and east is presently open and undeveloped. The
m immediately adjacent land will remain undeveloped in the near future. If this mitigation plan
Mi is adopted, the area around the lake will be preserved as open space. Without the preservation
provided in this plan, the City of Carlsbad has indicated that it would likely develop the site.
One of the primary contributing factors to using this site for revegetation and mitigation is
jp, the diversity of habitat types present and planned on the mitigation site. Calavera Lake has
about 16 acres of open water that is surrounded by emergent riparian species or freshwater
marsh and riparian woodland. Calavera Creek to the north of the lake also supports a
«m corridor of riparian vegetation. In all, there are 42 acres of riparian vegetation present on the
site. The remaining 208 acres of the parcel are occupied by upland habitats consisting of
coastal sage scrub (54 acres), southern mixed chaparral (94 acres), mixed coastal sage
*•» scrub/chaparral (14 acres), non-native grassland (13 acres), and disturbed areas (33 acres). At
DP present, this diversity provides the framework on which to build a highly functional natural
open space preserve. Upon completion of the restoration program, this variety of habitat
** types, with extensive ecotones between habitats, will greatly increase floral and faunal
•» diversity on the mitigation site. Additionally, the property provides a portion of the corridor
extending from the Carlsbad Highlands Mitigation Bank to Buena Vista Lagoon.
*-l At this time, the City proposes to place a conservation easement over 130 acres at the Calavera
Lake site to supplement the on-site mitigation program. At the present time, most of the
upland habitats on-site are highly degraded. On the north side of the lake, the coastal sage
** scrub is highly degraded with a substantial component of non-native ruderal species, but still
*. supports some California gnatcatchers. The chaparral on the north side of the lake is similarly
degraded. The remainder of the upland area within the mitigation zone is disturbed but was
probably once occupied by coastal sage scrub. The disturbed area is regularly disced and
*» supports very little vegetation. The vegetation present in this area is largely ruderal with an
m occasional element of the coastal sage scrub attempting to recruit into the area. At present the
site is not subject to any official usage. Most of the activity on the site is limited to
** recreational jogging. There is also substantial evidence of fishing in the lake. Off-road
«to vehicles use the north side of the site extensively. The chaparral mapped on the south side of
the lake has burned in the recent past. Some areas are showing active crown sprouting but
City of Carlsbad Carlsbad Golf Course Mitigation Plan
Page 17
other areas show very little recovery. Previous mapping shows a large stand of California
adolphia within the chaparral habitat that would be preserved under this plan.
The restoration effort will concentrate on the 33 acres of disturbed lands and 13 acres of non-
native grasslands present within the mitigation site. As discussed, much of the existing coastal
sage scrub habitat is also highly disturbed. Wherever possible, these areas will be revegetated
with coastal sage scrub as described above. Any areas within 100 feet of existing residences
will be restored with native grasslands. In these areas, the coastal sage scrub seed mix will be
replaced with the native grass seed mix specified. This measure will provide additional habitat
diversity on-site and some degree of fire protection for the adjacent residences. A management
plan will be prepared providing long-term management of the property. Issues to be
addressed include fencing, maintenance, monitoring and responsibilities. In the management
plan, any issues related to passive recreation (i.e. trails, picnicking, parking, restroom) will be
identified. The Calavera Lake site and the proposed restoration areas are illustrated on Figure
7.
4.2 Wetland Mitigation
The wetland restoration project will be located within the channel of a natural streamcourse
and will have sufficient year-round water to establish and support a willow woodland. The
project will rely on this natural water source to sustain the riparian plant community.
This project specifies the use of locally native riparian plant species that are already found in
the immediate vicinity. The site will be dominated by willows grown from cuttings obtained
from trees in the surrounding area. The herbaceous riparian understory will be seeded with
species also found in the vicinity.
The riparian habitat restoration location will be protected from unauthorized entry. The
wetland mitigation area is within the golf course and will be adjacent to areas of play. The
wetland will be clearly marked as an "out of bounds" zone. The margins of the wetlands will
be planted with species that discourage intrusion such as wild rose, blackberry, and
southwestern spiny rush. Frequently, a combination of measures is required to adequately
protect the riparian habitat.
City of Carlsbad Carlsbad Golf Course Mitigation Plan
Page 18
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
REVfGETATION AREAS -
700' o' 300'
EUCALYPTUS WOODLAND
DISTURSCD WETLAND
NATURAL FLOOD CHANNEL/STREAU BED
MARINE
AGRKULTUREMARITIME SUCCULENT SCRUB
COASTAL SAGE SCRUBCHAPARRAL
SOUTHERN MARITIME CHAPARRAL
COASTAL SAOf CHAPARRAL SCRUB
GRASSLAND
SALT WATER MARSH
ALKALI MARSH
FRESH WATER MARSHRIPARIAN FOREST
RIPAHAN WOODLAND
OAK WOODLAND
COASTAL UVE OAK WOODLAND
TORREY PINE FOREST
OPEN WATER
DISTURBED LAND
URBAN / DEVELOPED
PREPARED BY:
RsD P&D CONSULTANTS, INC.
401 WEST "A" STREET. SUITE 2500
SAN DIEGO. CALIFORNIA 92101
TELE: (619) 232-4466 rAX 2J4-J022
CAL VERA LAKE OFF-SITE MITIGA TION LOCA TION CITY OF CARLSBAD GOLF COURSE
18 HOLE CHAMPIONSHIP GOLF COURSE
CARLSBAD, CA
7
SHCCT 1 OF I
•*»
Regular monitoring until the plants are established will allow early detection of areas of poor
growth or cover, dying plantings, weed invasion, and erosion problems. These problems can
then be addressed and appropriate corrective actions taken. The monitoring will be performed
in conjunction with a long-term maintenance program.
Several additional management program factors will improve the habitat value of the restored
riparian habitats, including a cowbird trapping program, education program identifying the
sensitive resources, and light control.
One of the most important threats to native songbirds, especially those that nest in riparian
woodlands, is nest parasitism by the brown-headed cowbird. A requirement of the golf course
operation will be a permanent cowbird trapping program, and will be implemented to ensure
increased songbird nesting success in the restored and preserved riparian woodlands.
An educational program will be designed to inform the golfers of the presence and importance
of the sensitive resources on the project site. Signage for those sensitive areas where ingress
needs to be restricted will be identified.
The on-site restored and preserved riparian habitat could be affected by the additional lighting
if precautionary measures are not taken. These measures include shielding light sources so that
light is not directed toward the riparian habitat and directing all high-intensity lighting away
from the riparian habitat. These measures are incorporated into the design and overall
management program for the Golf Course.
5.0 METHODOLOGY
There are seven primary requirements for the success of a habitat restoration effort:
1. Select an appropriate location for the restoration effort
2. Removal of non-native ruderal species that compete with desired
species.
3. Soil preparation, including topsoil importation and/or mycorrhizal
fungi inoculation if necessary.
4. Seeding or planting with appropriate plant species for the location
and microclimate.
5. Protect the site from further disturbance.
6. Monitor success and make changes to the program if necessary.
7. Maintain the site during the plant establishment period. This may
include weeding, trash removal, irrigation and barrier repair.
City of Carlsbad Carlsbad Golf Course Mitigation Plan
Page 20
Upland Enhancement
To provide the best opportunity for success, this proposed plan contains all of these elements;
more detailed discussions of each follow.
Site Selection
Upland habitat enhancement will take place on the project site and at the Calavera Lake
mitigation site. Both sites previously supported coastal sage scrub and southern mixed
chaparral habitats. This indicates that the sites are appropriate for the reestablishment of these
plant communities.
Weed Removal
Most of the proposed revegetetation site presently supports a healthy stand of non-native ruderal
species, with dominant non-native grasses and mustards. Non-native annual species are very
detrimental to the success of any revegetation effort. It is essential that a weed removal program
be initiated as soon as weeds begin to sprout after the first rain. The first step in the removal
program involves spraying the non-native species with a growth hormone-type herbicide such as
Roundup. A week after the herbicide treatment, the area should be disced. New growth will
likely appear after the site is disced. Discing will have to be repeated before the new weed
growth matures. This measure may have to be repeated several times before the fall native plant
seeding.
Soil Preparation
Many coastal sage scrub plant species require a symbiotic relationship with mycorrhizal fungi
in order to thrive. The most efficient way to accomplish mycorrhizal inoculation is to import
topsoil that contains mycorrhizae. Soil from the impacted coastal sage scrub habitats are
likely to be the best available source of mycorrhizal inoculant. Topsoil relocation applies
only to the on-site restoration areas.
Prior to implementation of these guidelines, both the borrow and placement sites must be
surveyed and staked or flagged by the project biologist. The purpose of staking the borrow
site is to limit the borrow to areas where a relatively undisturbed coastal sage scrub habitat
occurs. This will help to limit the importation of non-native weedy species into the
revegetation area that is proposed to be later impacted by the project. The delineation of the
revegetation site will help to insure that the surrounding undisturbed vegetation is not
impacted by the revegetation operation.
The grubbing, mulch/topsoil removal, and respreading of topsoil should occur in the fall
(September 21-December 21), preferably the early fall (September 21-October 21), during the
time the plant material is dormant.
City of Carlsbad Carlsbad Golf Course Mitigation Plan
Page 21
1) First, the existing coastal sage scrub vegetation to be impacted will be driven over
numerous times with a large tractor to crush the vegetation material.
2) The crushed vegetation and topsoil 6 inches below grade will be removed simultaneously
and loaded into the back of trucks to be transported to the revegetation site and dumped
within the previously staked boundaries of the revegetation area.
Another option is to remove the vegetation, using standard grubbing techniques, then
"chip it" and mix the resulting mulch with the topsoil as it is spread.
3) The volume of mulch/soil collected can be spread over two times the area from which it
was collected.
4) The dumped soil/mulch will then be spread evenly over the surface 2 to 4 inches deep
within the designated area.
Following spreading of the soil/mulch, it will be bonded into place using a heavy studded
(sheep-foot) roller-compactor or equivalent equipment. This process presses some of the
mulch into the soil, helping to secure it to the substrate.
Seeding
The hydroseed mix will include the designated seed mix and a light mulch (Tables 6 and 7).
The hydroseed mix should be spread over the site to protect the seed from predators, wind,
rain erosion, and help retain moisture. The mulch should be made of 93 percent wood
cellulose/fiber matrix with 7 percent organic soil stabilizer. This mix utilizes the most
common plants found on the site that are available commercially. The seeds for these mixes are
available at several native seed suppliers.
Site Protection
Protection from further disturbance and the resultant degradation of habitat values is essential.
Almost all disturbance to preserved natural habitat areas is a result of unauthorized entry into
the preserve area. The worst damage is generally from off-road vehicles. The exclusion of off-
road vehicles is the most important factor in preserving the integrity of a natural habitat
restoration. The site will be protected by construction of vehicle-resistant fencing or walls at
all points of current unauthorized entry. The site will also be fenced in the same way where it
abuts the new development to the west along the extension of Tamarack Avenue and any
other future developments adjacent to the preserve area.
City of Carlsbad Carlsbad Golf Course Mitigation Plan
Page 22
Table 6
Coastal Sage Scrub Seed
Common Name
California Brome
Purple Needlegrass
Small-flowered Needlegrass
Black Sage
White Sage
Deerweed
Golden Yarrow
Arroyo Lupine
California Bush Sunflower
Sticky Monkeyflower
California Sagebrush
Laurel Sumac
California Buckwheat
California goldenbush
Scientific Name
Bromus carinatus
Nasella pulchra
Nasella lepida
Salvia mellifera
Salvia apiana
Lotus scoparius
Eriophyllum confertifolium
Lupinus succulentus
Encelia califomica
Mimulus auranticus
Artemisia califomica
Malosma laurina
Eriogonum fasciculatum
Isocoma menzezii
Lbs/Acre
10
8
4
4.5
1
5
3
4
4
3
4
6
12
3
P/G
95/80
70/60
60/60
70/50
70/50
90/60
30/60
98/85
40/60
2/55
15/50
95/60
10/65
20/40
Notes: P = % Purity, G - % Germination
Table 7
Native Grass Seed Mix for Fire Protection Area Around Structures
{"'" , ,:.-r'""-l^oipti|Qonf'Name; :
California Brome
Purple Needlegrass
Small-flowered Needlegrass
Blue Wild Rye
^Scientific Name
Bromus carinatus
Nasella pulchra
Nasella lepida
Elymus glaucus
* " Lbs/Acre -K"
8.5
16
5
9
,, . ,-f-P/G " '
95/80
70/60
60/60
90/80
Notes: P - % Purity, G = % Germination
Maintenance
The revegetation areas will require regular maintenance, primarily consisting of inspection of
the site for erosion problems, weed invasion, herbivory, unhealthy or dying plantings,
removal of trash, and taking actions necessary to prevent illegal dumping and entry in the
restoration area. If these disturbances occur, repairs will be made in a timely manner. These
maintenance activities will be implemented throughout the monitoring/responsibility period.
A detailed maintenance manual will be developed prior to completion of the construction
documents and specifications. A biologist experienced in horticultural practices and native
plant communities will be the primary author of the maintenance manual.
City of Carlsbad Carlsbad Golf Course Mitigation Plan
Page 23
IM> Weeding. Weed species determined by the biological monitor to be inconsistent with the
revegetation goals will be hand-removed by the revegetation contractor on a continuing basis
for the five-year maintenance period. Weedy species should be removed before they are 12
*" inches in height. Weeds and their roots systems should be completely removed. Weeds
should be cleared monthly during the first two years of maintenance and every two months
thereafter, or as deemed necessary by the biological monitor, for the remainder of the
minimum five-year maintenance period.
m
jg Pruning and Leaf Litter. No pruning or leaf litter removal will take place within the
mitigation site since the mitigation goal is to create a naturally occurring habitat. Therefore,
pi all dead branches will be left on the shrubs and trees, and all leaf litter and fallen branches will
|g not be cleared away from the plantings. Dead branches and leaf litter provide habitat for a
variety of species.
«•
fc» Pest Control. Pest control will generally consist of horticultural and biological methods.
Pesticide use will be as recommended by an agricultural pest control advisor and authorized
by the maintenance supervisor. However, if plantings are infected, pesticides may be spot
** sprayed. Rodent control will be restricted to methods recommended by the maintenance
supervisor.
Irrigation. In general, irrigation is not desired because the young plants need to acclimate to
,_ natural watering regimes. If the revegetation plantings become dependent on irrigation they
i may develop shallow root systems that will not allow the plants to survive under natural
conditions after irrigation is discontinued.
i^ Fertilization. Chemical fertilization will not be used in the mitigation area. Since native
plants have adapted to conditions of natural nutrient availability, fertilization is generally not
^" necessary. Also, the application of excess fertilizer tends to favor the establishment of weedy
ta» species.
""* Protective Measures Against Herbivory. Animal herbivory is a common problem in
*• revegetation programs. Animals, including gophers and rabbits, forage on new plantings,
roots, and leaves to the point where they can kill the plantings. Therefore, protective
measures often need to be incorporated during the time of planting and during the replanting
** of lost plants.
Trash Removal. Trash will be removed from the mitigation site on a regular basis (at least
once a month or as needed based on the rate of illegal dumping).
^ Plant Health and Survival. Maintenance crews will report unhealthy or dying plants, or
sprouting failure in the seeded areas. This will assist the biological monitor in developing
*"" immediate remedial measures, such as implementing irrigation or replacing plant material to
m correct the problem.
City of Carlsbad Carlsbad Golf Course Mitigation Plan
Page 24
Replacement of Dead or Diseased Plant Materials. Seeded areas will be quantitatively
assessed for seedling success at 120 days after seeding and annually thereafter for a 5-year
period. Seeded areas determined by the biological monitor not to have obtained 50 percent
coverage or better are to be reseeded at the expense of the contractor at 120 days, and annually
thereafter if needed. Timing of the seeding is subject to the discretion of the biological
monitor.
Monitoring
Following the implementation of the revegetation program the site will require monitoring
and maintenance for up to five years.
A vital component of any revegetation program developed to mitigate habitat loss is
documentation of the progress of the revegetation program until the plants are established.
The monitoring will be performed in conjunction with a long-term maintenance program.
General observations will be important in documenting areas of poor growth or cover, dying
plantings, weed invasion, and erosion problems. These areas can then be independently
monitored and scheduled for more intensive maintenance activities. If necessary, the areas
may be replanted or reseeded.
The monitoring program will use a variety of qualitative and quantitative procedures to
document the changes in plant growth of the target species and changes in the density and
dominance of all plant and wildlife species within the sampled areas. One of the most
important procedures will be standardized observations of the entire site to provide a general
record of trends on the mitigation site including plant growth. Potential coverage may
include photographic documentation from designated points which would give a visual record
of the changes in structure and cover of the sites over time. Quantitative studies would be
conducted to obtain plant cover estimates, seedling counts, and monitor changes in plant
diversity on-site.
Performance Criteria. There are generally two types of performance criteria used to
monitor the success of a revegetation effort; measurements of survival rates and measurements
of vegetation coverage. Which of these criteria is appropriate depends on several factors
including the goals and objectives of the project, the time frame of the monitoring effort, and
the types of habitat being established. For most sage scrub, chaparral, and grassland mitigation
projects, determination of vegetative cover is the appropriate measure of project success. This
is because, in most cases, individual plants are not installed and survivorship of individuals is
not applicable.
The performance goal of the project in the coastal sage scrub areas will be 75 percent
vegetative coverage in late spring or early summer at the end of 5 years. The 75 percent figure
was chosen because coastal sage scrub is a habitat that naturally has a patchy distribution with
many interstitial areas that support only annual herbs or no vegetation. There are also some
intermediate growth and coverage goals established for the area. These goals should probably
City of Carlsbad Carlsbad Golf Course Mitigation Plan
Page 25
be considered progress indicators rather than success or failure criteria. The goals are
60 percent cover at the end of 2 years, 70 percent cover at the end of 3 years and 75 percent
cover at the end of 4 years. The 75 percent cover figure is the ultimate goal and should be
sustained through year 5. If the 75 percent cover goal is reached and sustained for 1 year prior
to the end of the 5-year monitoring and maintenance period, this portion of the project will
be considered a success and the monitoring period will end. The intermediate goals will serve
as indicators of the plan's interim success. In the event that the intermediate goals are not
reached, the plan will be adapted to improve project success. If the 75 percent coverage goal is
not reached by the end of the maintenance period, the problem will be analyzed to determine
the reason for the lack of success. Required adjustments to the plan will be made and the
monitoring period will be extended.
Quantitative Monitoring. The line-intercept sampling method will be used to determine the
amount of cover achieved. To measure coverage by the line intercept method a transect (line)
is established between two points. Then a tape measure is strung between the two points and
the length of intersection that each species has with the line is measured. When the coverage
of all species is totaled, the result is frequently greater than the length of the transect because
many species have overlapping areas of coverage. By measuring the area of bare ground
intersection, the total vegetative cover can be established. Five, 50-foot transects will be
established in the revegetation area on both the golf course and Calavera Lake sites. If
qualitative observation indicates that plant establishment is relatively homogenous on the site,
the number of transects can be reduced to a number that accurately reflects the conditions on
the site. The number of transects required will be determined by the monitoring biologist,
but in no case shall be less than three transects dispersed approximately evenly across the site.
Qualitative Monitoring. The entire site will be visually inspected and qualitative or
subjective determinations about the success of the revegetation will be made. This is necessary
because the quantitative sample sites might not include important data.
Schedule. Immediately following installation, the site will be monitored twice monthly for
three months to evaluate germination and the initial "success" of the revegetation effort. If
germination is unsuccessful or the seedlings do not survive, a change in scope may be required
to determine the cause of failure. For the three to six-month period following installation, the
site will be checked once a month. For the 6 to 24-month period, monitoring will be
quarterly. If the success criteria are being met at the end of 24 months, from month 24 to the
end of the monitoring period, the site will monitored bi-annually. To insure success of the
revegetation program, any areas that require reinstallation of materials will have their
monitoring program started over at the time of reinstallation. If, at the end of the third year,
the revegetation has met all success criteria without intervention the previous year, the project
will be considered a success and monitoring will be discontinued.
Annual Reports. Annual reports will be submitted to the City of Carlsbad. The City of
Carlsbad will be responsible for submitting the report to the appropriate reviewing agencies.
City of Carlsbad Carlsbad Golf Course Mitigation Plan
Page 26
Riparian Mitigation Program
The 4-acre wetland mitigation site is located in the northwest portion of the site along the
north bank of the creek. The site is also adjacent to the Cannon Road riparian mitigation site
and existing Macario Creek riparian corridor. Figure 5 illustrates the location of the proposed
riparian mitigation site.
The mitigation plan consists of creating a diverse willow riparian woodland and scrub habitat.
An understory component will also be included within the willow woodland and scrub
habitat area. The understory will increase the diversity and function of the habitat, especially
during the woodland establishment period.
The proposed planting plan has two basic components; the planting of willow cuttings and
container stock, then hydroseeding an herbaceous understory seed mix.
The area will be planted with willow and mulefat cuttings on a minimum of 6-foot centers to
develop a dense habitat area. The cuttings will be obtained from trees in the surrounding area.
A variety of species will be used to reflect the species composition of the vicinity. Additional
diversity will be achieved by the inclusion of container plantings of several perennial riparian
species including California blackberry, California wild rose, spike sedge, and southwestern
spiny rush. These species will also reduce intrusion by humans into the wetland area. San
Diego marsh elder will also be planted from containers. This species is relatively uncommon
in the area and is considered sensitive in the region. Inclusion of this sensitive species will
increase habitat diversity and value on the site.
The wetland zone will also be hydroseeded with a riparian understory seed mix. The species
in the mix will include marsh fleabane, Mexican spike sedge, western ragweed, willow dock,
mugwort, yerba mansa, and annual coast plantain.
Willow and Mulefat Cuttings. The willow woodland and wetland areas will be planted
with willow and mulefat cuttings. Cuttings will be used because they are the most efficient
way to quickly and successfully establish willow-riparian habitat. Cuttings will be planted on
6-foot centers. The cuttings will conform to the following specifications.
Willow and mulefat cuttings will be collected from natural drainages within 5 miles of the
project site. Cuttings shall be reasonably straight, 6 feet in length, and 1 to 2 inches in
diameter at the base of the cutting. The top of each cutting shall end in a naturally occurring
bud or shall be cut square above a leaf bud. The bottom of the cutting shall be cut at a
45-degree angle below a leaf bud. Cuttings shall have all leaves and branches cut off flush with
the stem. Leaf and branch trimming will be done with care not to damage the stem. All
trimming and pruning instruments shall be extremely sharp to avoid damaging the cuttings'
vascular system. Willow and mulefat cuttings shall be planted between 12 and 48 hours after
cutting. Cuttings will be stored in 5-gallon buckets of water with rooting hormone mixed
according to manufacturer's specifications.
City of Carlsbad Carlsbad Golf Course Mitigation Plan
Page 27
Cuttings will be planted by driving a dowel into the ground at least 3 feet, removing the
dowel, and placing the cutting into the resulting hole. If the ground is dry at the time of
planting, the hole will be filled with water that will be allowed to soak into the surrounding
ground. The hole will then be filled with dirt with special care taken to insure that there are
no air pockets along the cutting stem.
Container Plantings. Southwestern spiny rush, California wild rose, California blackberry,
and San Diego marsh elder will be planted from 1-gallon container stock. Plantings will be in
holes dug to twice the depth and width of the container. The holes will be backfilled and
lightly compacted so that when the container plant is placed in the hole, the top of the root
ball is level with the surrounding grade. After the plants are removed from the container with
root-ball intact, they will be placed in the hole and the remainder of the hole will be backfilled
and gently compacted. These plantings will be on 20-foot centers throughout the wetland area
Seed Mix. The seed mix includes only species found on the site and those naturally occurring
components of streamside habitats in the area (Table 8). This mix utilizes the most common
plants found on the site that are available commercially. The seeds for this mix are available at
several native seed suppliers in California.
Table 8
Wetland Seed Mix
Common: Name
California mugwort
Yerba mansa
Marsh fleabane
Western ragweed
Giant wild rye
Willow dock
Annual coast plantain
Blue-eyed grass
Mexican spike sedge
Scientific Name
Artemisia dougla.sia.na
Anemopsis califomica
Pluchea oderata
Ambrosia psilostacbya
Leymus condensatus
Rumex salicifolius
Plantago bigelovii
Sisyrinchium helium
Eleocharis montevidensis
Lbs/Acre
5
2
1
20
5
5
3
3
2
P/G
15/50
45/60
35/60
3/30
70/80
98/75
98/75
95/75
98/75
Notes: P = % Purity, G = % Germination
Following weed removal, alteration of site topography, and installation of container plantings
and cuttings, the site will be hydroseeded. The hydroseed mix will include the designated seed
mix and a light mulch. The hydroseed mix should be spread over the site to conceal the seed
from predators, protect it from wind and rain erosion, and help retain moisture. The mulch
should be made of 93 percent wood cellulose/fiber matrix with 7 percent organic soil
stabilizer.
Irrigation Plan. Temporary irrigation will be provided to insure plant establishment.
Watering will be provided during the dry season for the first two years of the plant
City of Carlsbad Carlsbad Golf Course Mitigation Plan
Page 28
establishment period. Following the second winter season the watering schedule will be
gradually reduced to allow the plants to acclimate to the natural seasonal water supply.
Monitoring. A vital component of any revegetation program developed to mitigate habitat
loss is documentation of the progress of the revegetation program until the plants are
established. Monitoring will be performed in conjunction with a long-term maintenance
program. General observations will be important in documenting areas of poor growth or
cover, dying plantings, weed invasion, and erosion problems. These areas can then be
independently monitored and scheduled for more intensive maintenance activities. If
necessary, the areas may be replanted or reseeded.
The monitoring program will use a variety of qualitative and quantitative procedures to
document the changes in plant growth of the target species and changes in the density and
dominance of all plant and wildlife species within the sampled areas. One of the most
important procedures will be standardized observation of the entire site to provide a general
record of trends on the mitigation site including plant growth. Potential coverage may
include photographic documentation from designated points which would give a visual record
of the changes in structure and cover of the sites over time. Quantitative studies would be
conducted to obtain plant cover estimates, seedling counts, and monitor changes in plant
diversity on-site.
Performance Criteria. There are generally two types of performance criteria used to
monitor the success of a revegetation effort; measurements of survival rates and measurements
of vegetation coverage. Which of these criteria is appropriate depends on several factors,
including the goals and objectives of the project, the time frame of the monitoring effort, and
the types of habitat being established. For the Carlsbad Golf Course mitigation project,
determination of vegetative cover is the appropriate measure of project success.
In the willow woodland/riparian scrub areas, measurements of vegetative cover are the
appropriate yardstick by which success will be determined. This is because these areas are
expected to quickly develop dense coverage of riparian habitats. The types of vegetation
planted will include an understory seed mix and dense willow and mulefat cuttings, as well as
the specified container plantings.
The performance goal of the project in the willow woodland/riparian scrub areas will be
80 percent vegetative coverage in late spring or early summer at the end of 5 years. There are
also some intermediate growth and coverage goals established for the area. These goals should
probably be considered progress indicators rather than success or failure criteria. The goals
are 60 percent cover at the end of 2 years, 70 percent cover at the end of 3 years, and 80
percent cover at the end of 4 years. The 80 percent cover figure is the ultimate goal and
should be sustained through year 5. If the 80 percent cover goal is reached and sustained for
1 year prior to the end of the 5-year monitoring and maintenance period, this portion of the
project will be considered a success and the monitoring period will end. The intermediate
goals will serve as indicators of the plan's interim success. In the event the intermediate goals
City of Carlsbad Carlsbad Golf Course Mitigation Plan
Page 29
^ are not reached, the plan will be adapted to improve project success. If the 80 percent
coverage goal is not reached by the end of the maintenance period, the problem will be
"""" analyzed to determine the reason for the lack of success. Required adjustments to the plan
m will be made and the monitoring period will be extended.
** Quantitative Monitoring. The line-intercept sampling method will be used to determine the
** amount of cover achieved. To measure coverage by the line intercept method a transect (line)
is established between two points. A tape measure is then strung between the two points and
the length of intersection that each species has with the line is measured. When the coverage
of all species is totaled the result is frequently greater than the length of the transect because
up many species have overlapping areas of coverage. By measuring the area of bare ground
|| intersection the total vegetative cover can be established. Five, 50-foot transects will be
established in the 4-acre revegetation area. If qualitative observation indicates that plant
m establishment is relatively homogenous on the site, the number of transects can be reduced to
Hi a number that accurately reflects the conditions on the site. The number of transects required
will be determined by the monitoring biologist, but in no case shall be less than three transects
* dispersed approximately evenly across the site.
•Qualitative Monitoring. The entire site will be visually inspected and qualitative or
subjective determinations about the success of the revegetation will be made. This is necessary
*' because the quantitative sample sites might not include important data.
Schedule. Immediately following installation, the site will be monitored twice monthly for
three months to evaluate germination and the initial success of the revegetation effort. If
_, germination is unsuccessful or the seedlings do not survive, a change in scope may be required
to determine the cause of failure. For the three to six-month period following installation, the
site will be checked once a month. For the 6 to 24-month period, monitoring will be
<— quarterly. If the success criteria are being met at the end of 24 months, from month 24 to the
^ end of the monitoring period, the site will monitored bi-annually. To ensure success of the
revegetation program, any areas that require reinstallation of materials will have their
"" monitoring program started over at the time of reinstallation. If, at the end of the third year,
«• the revegetation has met all success criteria without intervention the previous year, the project
will be considered a success and monitoring will be discontinued.
fwm
«• Annual Reports. Annual reports will be submitted to the City of Carlsbad. The City of
Carlsbad will be responsible for submitting the report to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
"" and the CDFG.
City of Carlsbad Carlsbad Golf Course Mitigation Plan
Page 30
t ) i i f i i i i i r i i i
City of Carlsbad Golf Course Project Team:
f I f I II t I • i it I i • i t i i i 11
'roject Team
City of Carlsbad
Raven Golf
P&D Consultants
Cotton Beland & Associates
Merkel & Associates
Dudek & Associates
Ogden Environmental
Gregg Nash & Associates
Doug Fredrikson Design
John J. Van Mouten, P.E.
KTU&A
Dennis Gallegos & Associates
Leighton & Associates
Melchoir Surveying
McDaniel Engineering
City of Carlsbad Golf Course Steering
Committee
City of Carlsbad Police Department
City of Carlsbad Arts Office
San Diego Gas & Electric
Role/Discipline Responsibility
Applicant
Project Management
Golf Course Management-Operator
Engineering
Environmental Processing & Coordination
Preparation of E1R
Biologist
Biologist
HMP Coordination
Golf Course Architect
Club 1 louse Architect
Consulting Engineering In Acoustics
Landscape Architects
Archaeologist
Geotechnical Engineers
Land Surveying
Structural Engineering
Citizen Oversight Chairman
Coordination with Police Shooting Range
Golf Course Public Art Committee
Utility Coordination
Project Contributors
Marty Orenyak, Director of Community Development
John Cahill
Mark Steyaert, ASLA
Christer Westman
Ken Quon, PE
Don Rideout
Steve Adelson
Micky Williams
Chuck Moore, Director of Land Development Services
Belty Dehoney, Director of Environmental Services
Dan Lee, PE Civil Engineer
Ty Garrison
Shannon Allen
John Bridges
Tim Gnibus
Keith Merkel
Craig Reisir
Howie Weir
Anita Hayworth
Wayne Spencer
Gregg Nash, ASGCA
Shane Whitcome
Doug Fredrikson, A1A
John J. Van Houten, PE
Kurt Carlson, ASLA
Don Ueno, ASLA
Dennis Gallegos
Mike Stewart
Dale Davis, LS
Perry Schacht, PE
Irv Rossten
Lt. Donald Metcalf
Naomi B. Nussbaum
John Hernandez