HomeMy WebLinkAbout; Highland Drive Storm Drain Replacement; Highland Drive Storm Drain Replacement; 2003-10-13DUDEK
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Engineering, Planning,
Corporate Office:
Environmental Sciences and 605 Third Street 760.942.5147
Teams for Complex Projects Management Services Encinitas, California 92024 Fax 760.632.0164
October 13, 2003 2798-01
Mr. William E. Plummer
Deputy City Engineer
City of Carlsbad
1635 Faraday Avenue
Carlsbad, CA 92008
Re: Biological Resources Letter Report for the Highland Drive Storm Drain
Replacement Project, City of Carlsbad, California
Dear Mr. Plummer:
Dudek & Associates, Inc. (Dudek) conducted a focused California gnatcatcher (Polioptila
californica) survey and vegetation mapping along the approximate 350-linear foot Highland
Drive Storm Drain project alignment, City of Carslbad, California. This study was completed
according to your direction. The Highland Drive Storm Drain replacement project areas
includes an approximate 0.38-acre area (for purposes of this study, a 30-foot buffer on either
side of the project alignment was included for analysis). This letter describes the methods
used to obtain biological information, results, and provides a discussion of the projects
impacts and suggested mitigation measures along with required permitting.
SITE DESCRIPTION
The project area is an approximate 0.38-acre area situated between Highland Drive and
Hospital Park in the City of Carlsbad, San Diego County, California (Figure -/). Specifically,
the project area is located on the U.S. Geological Survey 7.5 minute San Luis Rey quadrangle;
on Section 31; T11S, R4W (Figure 2). Elevations range from approximately 40 feet above
mean sea level (AMSL) at the northern end to 120 feet AMSL at the southern end. The
project area environs are dominated by urban development. A Park lies at the western end
and the entire alignment easement is within a single residential lot.
The project is situated within the City's Habitat Management Plan (HMP) Local Facilities
Management Zone 1 within a Development Area outside of any HMP Core, Linkages, Special
Resource, Existing Hardline Conservation, Proposed Hardline Conservation, or Proposed
Standards Areas.
Mr. William E. Plutnmer
Re: Biological Resources Letter Report for the Highland Drive Storm Drain Replacement Project,
City of Carlsbad, California
Figure 1
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Highland Drive Storm Drain Project
Regional Map
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Mr. William E. Plummer
Re: Biological Resources Letter Report for the Highland Drive Storm Drain Replacement Project,
City of Carlsbad, California
Figure 2
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2798-01
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# • ^^-••:*"<-r"Z$ vx ;•^^N^V-.:--^,,.., .I X•^^^r $""'^&
* WV^ X-- • >T: USGS 7.5 Minute Series'San Luis Key Quadrangle^
Highland Drive Storm Drain Project
Vicinity Map
c
Mr. William E. Plummer
Re: Biological Resources Letter Report for the Highland Drive Storm Drain Replacement Project,
City of Carlsbad, California
METHODOLOGY
Data regarding biological resources present on the project site were obtained through a review
of pertinent literature and through field reconnaissance.
Sensitive biological resources present or potentially present onsite were identified through
a literature search using the following sources: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (2000),
California Department of Fish and Game (2000), California Native Plant Society's Inventory
of Rare and Endangered Vascular Plants (Skinner and Pavlik 1994), Murphy (1990), scientific
literature, and reports. General information regarding wildlife species present in the region
was obtained from Unitt (1984) for birds, Bond (1977) for mammals, Stebbins (1984) for
reptiles and amphibians, and Emmel and Emmel (1973) for butterflies. In addition, soils maps
of San Diego County (Bowman 1973) were examined. The project area is located within the
North County Wildlife Forum's study area; hence, vegetation and sensitive species maps
generated for the Multiple Habitat Conservation Plan (MHCP) and HMP also were reviewed.
Biological surveys of the project area were conducted by Dudek biologists Brock A. Ortega
(BAO) and Cathleen L. Weigand (CLW), according to the schedule illustrated in Table 1.
Plant communities were mapped in the field directly onto a 20-scale (1" = 20') engineering
plan (City of Carlsbad Engineering Department 2003). Plant and wetland community
boundaries were manually drawn onto the engineering plans. The plant and wetland
community boundaries were digitized using ArcView. Plant and wetland community
boundaries were digitized by Dudek GIS technician Tim Walsh using ArcCAD to calculate
acreages of the habitat types and impacts of the proposed project.
The vegetation classification used in this report for mapping purposes follows Holland (1986).
Botanical surveys of the site were conducted September 18, and October 7, 2003. All plant
species encountered during the field surveys were identified and recorded. Latin and common
names of plants follow The JepsonManual (Hickman 1993). A cumulative list of plant species
observed on the property during the surveys is presented in Appendix A.
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Mr. William E. Ptunttner
Re: Biological Resources Letter Report for the Highland Drive Storm Drain Replacement Project,
City of Carlsbad, California
TABLE 1
SCHEDULE OF SURVEYS AND CONDITIONS
HIGHLAND DRIVE STORM DRAIN REPLACEMENT PROJECT
Date | Personnel | Event | Time | Air Temp | Cloud Cover | Wind
37864
37871
37881
37900
BAD
BAD
BAD, CLW
CLW
CAGN survey
CAGN survey
CAGN Survey, Vegetation Mapping
Vegetation Review
0700-0830
0700-0815
0700-0830; 1200-
1330
Not Recorded
66
66
65; 78
Not
Recorded
0
75
100;0
Not Recorded
0
0
0-1; 0
Not
Recorded |
Wildlife species detected during field surveys by sight, vocalizations, burrows, tracks, scat,
or other sign were recorded. Binoculars (8 x 32 power) were used to aid in the identification
of observed wildlife. In addition to species actually observed, expected wildlife use of the site
was determined by known habitat preferences of local animal species and knowledge of their
relative distributions in the area. Latin and common names of animals referred to in this
report follow Stebbins (1985) for reptiles and amphibians, American Ornithologists' Union
(2000) for birds, Jones et al. (1992) for mammals, and Emmel and Emmel (1973) for
butterflies.
A focused survey for California gnatcatcher was completed in September 2003 following the
most recent U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) protocol, under the authority of USFWS
permit #TE813545-4. The survey consisted of three visits, separated by 7 to 10 days. Each
visit consisted of walking all portions of the proposed alignment and a 30-foot buffer, within
suitable habitat while listening for California gnatcatcher "mewing" or "pish" calls. A tape
recording of a male California gnatcatcher was played approximately every 50 feet depending
on sound attenuation due to topography. The surveys were conducted under appropriate
field conditions (Table 1).
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Mr. William E. Plummer
Re: Biological Resources Letter Report for the Highland Drive Storm Drain Replacement Project,
City of Carlsbad, California
RESULTS
BOTANICAL RESOURCES
Based on species composition and general physiognomy, seven plant associations were
identified within the project study area (Table 2). Figure 3 depicts their spatial distribution
and discussions specific to each are provided in the following sections.
TABLE 2
EXISTING PLANT COMMUNITY ACREAGES1 - HIGHLAND DRIVE
Plant Community \ !
Coastal Sage Scrub
Disturbed Coastal Sage Scrub
Sparse Coastal Sage Scrub
Open Channel
Eucalyptus Woodland
Annual (non-native) Grassland
Giant Reed
Developed/Ornamental
TOTAL
Existing Acreage v? • .';"•:'•
0.01
0.14
0.06
0.05
0.03
0.01
<0.01
0.07
0.38
'Acreages represent storm drain improvement area plus 30-foot buffer area.
Coastal Sage Scrub & Variations
Coastal sage scrub is a native plant community composed of a variety of soft, low, aromatic
shrubs characteristically dominated by drought-deciduous species. Typical species include
black sage (Salvia mellifera), California sagebrush (Artemisia californica), California bush
sunflower (Encelia californica), and flat-topped buckwheat (Eriogonum fasciculatum). Scattered
evergreen shrubs including lemonadeberry (Rhus integrifolia), laurel sumac (Malosma laurina),
and toyon (Heteromeles arbutifolia] are present throughout the coastal sage scrub and tend to
dominate in the more mesic areas, such as north-facing slopes.
Onsite the disturbed and sparse coastal sage scrub is similar in composition to coastal sage
scrub but has been invaded by ornamental and non-native species, and disturbed by erosion
and human activities within the canyon. Non-native and ornamental species include black
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October 13,2003
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Mr. William E. Plummet-
Re: Biological Resources Letter Report for the Highland Drive Storm Drain Replacement Project,
City of Carlsbad, California
Figure 3
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.Q.
^
Legend
r — —, • Project Boundary
j | Vegetation Boundary
Vegetation Types:
AGL = Annual (non-native) Grassland
ARDO = Giant Reed
CSS = Coastal Sage Scrub
DEV/ORN = Developed/Ornamental
EW = Eucalyptus Woodland
OC = Open Channel
dCSS = disturbed Coastal Sage Scrub
sCSS = sparse Coastal Sage Scrub
BASE MAP SOURCE: Terra Data, 10-7-03
Highland Drive Storm Drain Project
Biological Resources Map
Mr. William E. Plummet
Re: Biological Resources Letter Report for the Highland Drive Storm Drain Replacement Project,
City of Carlsbad, California
mustard (Brassica nigra), wild oat (Avena fatua), bromes (Bromus diandrus, B. madritensis, B.
hordeaceus), hottentot-fig (Carpobrotus edulis), and bougainvillea (Bougainvillea sp.).
Approximately 0.01 acre of coastal sage scrub, 0.14 acre of disturbed coastal sage scrub, and
0.06 acre of sparse coastal sage scrub was identified and mapped within the study area.
Non-native (Annual) Grasslands
Annual (non-native) grassland contain a dense to sparse cover of annual grasses and broad-
leaved herbaceous species. Annual (non-native) grassland and forbes dominate the habitat,
and there are few early successional elements of the former community. Characteristic
grassland species commonly include wild oat, purple needle grass (Nassella yukhra), bromes,
black mustard, lupine (Lupinus spp.), sweet fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), and tocalote
(Centaurea melitensis), among others.
Annual (non-native) grassland occurs within the southwestern portion of the project area.
This area consists of purple needle grass, wild oat, ripgut grass (Bromus diandrus), foxtail
barley (Hordeum murinum), and ruderal forb species such as tocalote, and black mustard.
Native forbs and shrubs, such as California bush sunflower, California sagebrush, and flat-
topped buckwheat also were present in this community. Approximately 0.01 acre of annual
(non-native) grassland was identified and mapped within the study area.
Eucalyptus Woodland
Eucalyptus woodland is not recognized as a native plant community by Holland (1986).
Nonetheless, it is a distinct vegetational association within the study area dominated by
eucalyptus trees (Eucalyptus sp.). This association is characterized onsite by a canopy of
eucalyptus with an understory of sparse non-native shrubs, herbs and grasses such as western
ragweed (Ambrosia psilostachya var. californica), jade plant (Crassula argentea), wild oat, foxtail
barley, and purple needlegrass. Approximately 0.03 acre of eucalyptus woodland was
identified and mapped within the study area.
Open Channel
Within the project site, the area identified as open channel is highly disturbed due to prior
project impacts, human activities, erosion and scouring during infrequent flood and rain
events. This unvegetated stream channel is regulated by the California Department of Fish
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Mr. William E. Plummer
Re: Biological Resources Letter Report for the Highland Drive Storm Drain Replacement Project,
City of Carlsbad, California
and Game (CDFG), pursuant to Section 1601-1603 of the California Fish and Game Code; the
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE), pursuant to Section 404 of the Clean Water Act; and
the Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB) pursuant to Section 401 of the federal
Clean Water Act. Approximately 0.05 acre (approximately 225 linear feet) of open channel
was identified and mapped within the study area.
Giant Reed
Giant reed (Amndo donax) dominates a small area on the northwestern slope of the canyon.
This area is completely dominated by giant reed with no other canopy or understory species
present. Giant reed is a highly invasive non-native species that often displaces native wetland
vegetation, especially in areas of high scour. Less than 0.01 acre of giant reed was identified
and mapped within the study area.
Developed/Ornamental
Developed/Ornamental describes areas occupied by structures, paving and other impermeable
surfaces, and areas where ornamental plant species and landscaping have been installed
and/or are maintained. Within the study area, developed/ornamental occurs on the
southwestern most portion of the project area. Ornamental plantings onsite consist of
ornamental shrubs, herbs and grasses such as pride of hottentot-f ig, bougainvillea, and j uniper
(Juniperus sp.). Approximately 0.07 acre of developed/ornamental planting was identified and
mapped within the study area.
Floral Diversity
A total of 52 vascular plant species were recorded in the project area. Of the 52 species
identified, 29 species (58%) are native. The full list of plant species identified onsite is
provided as Appendix A.
WILDLIFE RESOURCES
A list of wildlife species detected by Dudek is included in Appendix B. A total of 20 species
of birds was observed onsite. The most commonly encountered species include mourning
dove (Zenaida macrouro) and California towhee (Pipih crissilis). Based on the habitats present
2798-01
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Mr. William E. Plummer
Re: Biological Resources Letter Report for the Highland Drive Storm Drain Replacement Project,
City of Carlsbad, California
onsite, a number of migratory birds, raptors, and disturbance tolerant songbirds probably use
the area. Additionally, night birds such as owls and nighthawks probably use the project
area.
No amphibian species and two reptile species were detected including side-blotched lizard
(Ufa stansburiana) and western fence lizard (Sceloporus occidentalis). Other reptile and
amphibian species which may be present include southern alligator lizard (Cerrhonotus
multicarinatus webbii), orange-throated whiptail (Cnemidophorus hyperythrus), western skink
(Eumeces skihonianus), ringneck snake (Diadolphis punctatus), gopher snake (Pituophis
mdanoleucus], northern red-diamond rattlesnake (Crotalus ruber ruber), Pacific slender
salamander (Batrachoseps pacificus), and western toad (Bufo boreas). None of these species are
federally- or state-listed.
Three mammal species were detected onsite including, brush rabbit (Sylvilagus bachtnannii),
California ground squirrel (Spermophilus beecheyi), and Botta's pocket gopher (Thomomys
bottae). Other mammals which may use the site include, Virginia opossum (Didelphis
virginiana), striped skunk (Mephitis mephitis}, bats, and rodents. None of these species are
state- or federally-listed.
SENSITIVE BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES
Sensitive biological resources are those defined as follows: (1) species that have been given
special recognition by federal, state, or local conservation agencies and organizations due to
limited, declining, or threatened population sizes; and (2) habitat areas or plant communities
that are unique, are of relatively limited distribution, or are of particular value to wildlife.
During the field surveys a special effort was made to identify and survey those areas
suspected to support sensitive resources.
This section includes discussions of plant and animal species present in the project vicinity
that are given special recognition by federal, state, or local conservation agencies and
organizations owing to declining, limited, or threatened populations. Sources used for
determination of sensitive biological resources are as follows: wildlife - U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service (USFWS 1989,1991), California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG1980,
1986), Remsen (1978), McGurty (1980), and Murphy (1990); plants - USFWS (1990,1993),
CDFG (1987), and Skinner and Pavlik (1994); habitats - Holland (1986).
II
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2798-01
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Mr. William E. Plummet
Re: Biological Resources Letter Report for the Highland Drive Storm Drain Replacement Project,
City of Carlsbad, California
Sensitive Botanical Resources
No plant species listed as rare, threatened, or endangered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
(USFWS) or the California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG) were detected in the
project area. Table 3 lists the sensitive plants or Multiple Habitat Conservation Program
(MHCP) narrow endemics and their status the project site.
TABLE 3
SENSITIVE PLANTS OR MHCP
NARROW ENDEMICS & STATUS ONSITE
; : -^ %eeNHafcttat
Abronia maritima
Red sand-verbena
San Diego
thornmint1
Acanthomintha ilicifolia
Shaw's agave1'2
Agave shawii
San Diego bur-bush2
Ambrosia chenopodiifolia
San Diego ambrosia1
Ambrosia pumila
Aphanisma'
Aphanisma blitoides
Del Mar manzanita2
Arctostaphylos glandulosa var. crass/folia
Regulatory
Status
FWS: None
CDFG: None
CNPS:4, 1-2-2
FWS: Endangered
CDFG: Endangered
CNPS:1B, 2-3-2
FWS: None
CDFG: None
CNPS: 2, 3-3-1
FWS: None
CDFG: None
CNPS List: 2
FWS: Proposed
CDFG: none
CNPS: 1B, 3-3-2
FWS: None
CDFG: None
CNPS: 1B, 2-2-2
FWS: Endangered
CDFG: None
Habitat/location
Coastal dunes; elevation 0-
100m.
Chaparral, coastal scrub, valley
and foothill grassland, vernal
pools 1 clay; elevation 10-
935m.
Coastal bluffs, coastal sage
scrub, maritime succulent
scrub; elevation 1 0-75m.
known only from Point Loma.
Coastal sage and maritime
succulent scrubs; typically
flowers June-September
Flood plains of San Luis Rey,
San Diego, and Sweetwater
Rivers in San Diego County;
grassland and coastal sage
scrub, often disturbed areas;
elevation 20-41 5m.
Coastal bluff scrub on
sandstone and sandy soils;
elevation 1-305m.
Southern maritime chaparral on
marine sandstone substrate
?'•;' Vy^f i ":i* j*fe|? -^{^
No appropriate habitat on
project site; not likely to
occur.
Habitat disturbed; not
expected to occur.
No appropriate habitat on
project site; not likely to
occur.
No extant habitat not
expected to occur.
No appropriate habitat on
project site; not expected to
occur.
No appropriate habitat on
project site; not likely to
occur.
No appropriate habitat on
project site; not likely to
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Mr. William E. Plummet
Re: Biological Resources Letter Report for the Highland Drive Storm Drain Replacement Project,
City of Carlsbad, California
TABLE 3 (Continued)
: ;,'-'-1"f''i" - > C,, s
'<*!** s '^~i" --. •'- - •'""• •'"• -
f • SpteleslHtiiittt
Otay manzanita2
Arctostaphylos otayensis
Coastal dunes milk vetch1
Astragalus (enervat. titi
Encinitas baccharis1
Baccharis vanessae
Nevin's barberry2
Herberts nevinii
Thread-leaved brodiaea
Brodiaea fill folia
Orcutt's brodiaea
Brodiaea orcuttii
Dense reed grass
Calamagrostis koe/erioicfes (= C. ctensa)
Dunn's mariposa lily
Calochortus dunnii
Slender-pod jewel flower
Caulanthus stenocarpus(= C.
heterophyllus)
Regulatory
Status
CNPS:1B, 3-3-2
FWS: None
CDFG: None
CNPS: 18,3-2-3
FWS: Endangered
CDFG: Endangered
CNPS: 1B, 3-3-3
FWS: Endangered
CDFG: Endangered
CNPS: 16,2-3-3
FWS: Endangered
CDFG: Endangered
CNPS: 16,3-3-3
FWS: Threatened
CDFG: Endangered
CNPS: 16,3-3-3
FWS: None
CDFG: None
CNPS: 16, 1-3-2
FWS: None
CDFG: None
CNPS: considered but
rejected
FWS: None
CDFG: None
CNPS: 16, 2-2-2
FWS: None
CDFG: Rare
CNPS: considered but
HabitatlLocation \.
elevation 0-365m.
Southern mixed chaparral on
moderately steep metavolcanic
and gabbro soils over 1,000
feet AMSL.
Coastal dunes, coastal bluff
scrub; elevation 1-50m.
Southern maritime, southern
mixed, and chamise chaparrals
on metavolcanic and marine
sandstone soils elevation 60-
720m.
Southern mixed and chamise
chaparrals on moderate slopes
over 1,000 feet AMSL.
Chaparral, coastal scrub,
playas, clay soils in valley and
foothill grasslands; elevation
40-1 220m.
Chaparral, clay soils in
grasslands and near vernal
pools; elevation 30-1 6 15m.
Montane meadows and ridges.
Southern mixed and chamise
chaparrals on metavolcanic and
gabbro soils elevation 380-
1830m.
Open areas in coastal sage
scrub and chaparral, especially
post-fire.
'•'^VlC^|^*f^"-s.;il™J.^'->-^'>j .. •
' ^?Stt(&$B*!t»;r".';
occur, outside distribution
area.
No appropriate habitat on
project site; not likely to
occur, outside distribution
area.
No appropriate habitat on
project site; not likely to
occur.
No appropriate habitat on
project site; not likely to
occur, outside distribution
area.
No naturally-occurring
populations in San Diego
County. No habitat onsite;
not expected to occur.
No appropriate habitat on
project site; not likely to
occur, outside distribution
area.
No extant habitat on project
site; not expected to occur.
No appropriate habitat on
project site; not likely to
occur, outside distribution
area.
No appropriate habitat on
project site; not likely to
occur.
No appropriate habitat on
project site; not likely to
occur.
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Mr. William E. Plummet
Re: Biological Resources Letter Report for the Highland Drive Storm Drain Replacement Project,
City of Carlsbad, California
TABLE 3 (Continued)
. , ' " * \ :
Species/Habitat
Lakeside ceanothus2
Ceanothus cyaneus
Wart-stemmed ceanothus2
Ceanothus verrucosus
Salt marsh bird's-beak
Cordylanthus maritimus ssp. maritimus
Orcutt's bird-beak
Cordylanthus orcuttianus
Del Mar sand aster
Corethrogyne filaginifolia
var. linifolia(~ Less/nffiafi/ag/n/fo/iavar.
incana)
Tecate cypress2
Cupressus forbesii
Otay tarplant1
Deinandra (Hemizonia) conjugens
Short-leaved live-forever1
Dudley a b/ocfiman/aessp. brevifolia
Variegated dudleya1
Dudleya variegata
flegulatory
Status
rejected
FWS: None
CDFG: None
CNPS: 18,3-2-2
FWS: None
CDFG: None
CNPS: 2, 2-2-1
FWS: Endangered
CDFG: Endangered
CNPS: 1B, 2-2-2
FWS: None
CDFG: None
CNPS: 2, 3-3-1
FWS: None
CDFG: None
CNPS: IB, 3-3-2
FWS: None
CDFG: None
CNPS: 1B, 3-3-2
FWS: Endangered
CDFG: Endangered
CNPS: IB, 3-3-2
FWS: None
CDFG: Endangered
CNPS: 1B, 3-3-3
FWS: None
CDFG: None
CNPS: 16,2-2-2
•"" , , *
Habitat/Location
Southern mixed chaparral on
moderate to steep slopes over
1, 000 feet AMSL
Sandstone and metavolcanic
soils in mixed chaparral and
chamise chaparral; elevation 1-
380m.
Upper elevations in coastal
saltmarsh; elevation 0-30m.
Coastal sage scrub and riparian
habitats; elevation 10-350m.
Southern maritime and mixed
chaparrals on marine sandstone
soils; elevation 3-1 15m.
CNDDB record for Point Loma.
Mixed chaparral on moderate
to steep slopes on
metavolcanic or gabbro soils;
elevation 255- 1500m.
Clay soils in coastal sage
scrub, maritime succulent
scrub and grasslands.
Southern maritime chaparral on
Linda Vista Formation (marine
sandstone) soils, coastal scrub
/ Torrey sandstone; elevation
30-250m.
Coastal sage scrub, chamise
chaparral, vernal pool habitats
on clayey or metavolcanic soils;
elevation 3-550m.
• •' " •V'"~«c4$j* ^"'i-'.-i*''1
No appropriate habitat on
project site; not likely to
occur, outside distribution
area.
No extant habitat.
No appropriate habitat on
project site; not likely to
occur.
No appropriate habitat on
project site; not likely to
occur. Coastal sage scrub
onsite disturbed.
No appropriate habitat on
project site; not likely to
occur, outside distribution
area.
No appropriate habitat on
project site; not likely to
occur.
No extant habitat; not
expected to occur.
No appropriate habitat on
project site; not likely to
occur, outside distribution
area.
No extant habitat; not
expected to occur. Coastal
sage scrub onsite disturbed.
Professional Teams for Complex Project*October 13,2003
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Mr. William E. Plummet
Re: Biological Resources Letter Report for the Highland Drive Storm Drain Replacement Project,
City of Carlsbad, California
TABLE 3 (Continued)
'"., i SpeciesJHabitat
Sticky dudleya
Dudleys viscida
Palmer's ericameria2
Fricameriapa/merissp. palmeri
Coast wallflower
Erysimum ammophilum
San Diego button-celery1
Eryngium aristulatum ssp. parishii
San Diego barrel cactus2
Ferocactus viridescens
Heart-leaved pitcher-sage
Lepechinia cardiophylla
Gander's pitcher sage1
Lepechinia ganderi
Muttall's lotus
Lotus nuttallianus
Felt-leaved monardella2
Monardella hypoleuca ssp. lanata
Regulatory
Status 1
FWS: Category 1
CDFG: None
CNPS: 16,2-2-3
FWS: None
CDFG: None
CNPS: 2, 3-2-1
FWS: None
CDFG: None
CNPS: 16,2-2-3
FWS: Endangered
CDFG: Endangered
CNPS: 16, 2-3-2
FWS: None
CDFG: None
CNPS: 2, 1-3-1
FWS: None
CDFG: None
CNPS: 1B, 3-2-2
FWS: None
CDFG: None
CNPS: 16, 3-1 -2
FWS: None
CDFG: None
CNPS: 16, 3-3-2
FWS: None
CDFG: None
: HahitatJLocation
Coastal sage scrub, mixed
chaparral, chamise chaparral
on steep slopes and cliff faces
in sandstone and metavolcanic
soils; elevation 10-550m.
Coastal sage scrub and oak
woodland on silty soils;
elevation 30-600m.
Coastal dunes and coastal
sage scrub on sandy soils;
elevation 0-60m.
Vernal pools 1 mesic, coastal
scrub; elevation 20-620m.
Coastal sage scrub, chaparral,
and grassland, vernal pools;
elevation 3450m.
Southern mixed chaparral on
metavolcanic and gabbro soils
over 1,000 feet AMSL;
predominantly an Orange
County species, known only
from Iron Mountain in San
Diego County.
Southern mixed chaparral on
metavolcanic and gabbro soils
at elevations greater than
1,000 feet AMSL.
Coastal dunes, coastal scrub
(sandy); elevation 0-1 Om.
CNDD8 record for Point Loma,
Point Loma Avenue south to
near Azure Vista; not observed
in 2001.
Southern mixed and chamise
chaparrals; metavolcanic and
:
No appropriate habitat on
project site; not likely to
occur, outside distribution
area.
No appropriate habitat on
project site; not likely to
occur. Coastal sage scrub
onsite disturbed.
No appropriate habitat on
project site; not likely to
occur.
No extant habitat; no vernal
pools.
No appropriate habitat; not
expected to occur. Coastal
sage scrub onsite disturbed
No appropriate habitat on
project site; not likely to
occur.
No appropriate habitat on
project site; not likely to
occur.
No appropriate habitat on
project site; not likely to
occur.
No appropriate habitat on
project site; not likely to
2798-01
Professional TWHIU for Complex Projt*i
October 13,2003 Page 14
Mr. William E. Plummer
Re: Biological Resources Letter Report for the Highland Drive Storm Drain Replacement Project,
City of Carlsbad, California
TABLE 3 (Continued)
• < '• ''
Species/Habitat „
Willowy monardella
Monar delta linoides ssp. viminea
San Diego goldenstar
Muilla Cleveland!!
Spreading navarretia1
Navarretia fossa/is
Dehesa bear-grass2
Nolina interrata
snake cholla1
Qpuntiaparryhw. serpentina
California Orcutt grass1
Orcuttia calif ornica
San Diego Mesa mint1
Pogogyne abramsii
Otay Mesa mint1
Pogogyne nudiuscula
Torrey pine2
Pinus torreyana ssp. torreyana
small-leaved rose2
Rosa minuti folia
Regulatory
' .' !.1W»!^.. '
CNPS: 16,2-2-2
FWS: Endangered
CDFG: Endangered
CNPS: 18,2-3-2
FWS: None
CDFG: None
CNPS: 1B, 2-3-2
FWS: Threatened
CDFG: None
CNPS: 1B, 2-3-2
FWS: None
CDFG: Endangered
CNPS: 18,3-3-2
FWS: None
CDFG: None
CNPS: 18, 3-3-2
FWS: Endangered
CDFG: Endangered
CNPS: 18, 3-3-2
FWS: Endangered
CDFG: Endangered
CNPS: 16,2-3-3
FWS: Endangered
CDFG: Endangered
CNPS: 16, 3-3-2
FWS: None
CDFG: None
CNPS: 16, 3-2-3
FWS: None
CDFG: Endangered
CNPS: 2, 3-3-1
HtWt»tjloc»tteii
gabbro substrates over 1,000
feet AMSL.
Cobbly, intermittent streams in
riparian habitat and coastal
sage scrub.
Grassland, chaparral and
coastal sage scrub on clay
soils; elevation 50465m.
Vernal pools and depressions
on clay soils, chenopod scrub;
elevation 30-1 300m.
Southern mixed and chamise
chaparral; gabbro soils at
elevations greater than 500
feet AMSL.
Coastal and maritime succulent
scrubs, chaparral; elevation 30-
150m.
Long-duration vernal pools;
elevation 15-660m.
Vernal pools; elevation 90-
200m.
Vernal pools on Otay Mesa;
elevation 90-250m.
Southern maritime chaparral on
marine sandstone soils.
Exists only as translocated
material in restored maritime
succulent and coastal sage
scrub on Otay Mesa; elevation
150-1 60m.
":j'"^J?-.' •'•'>'$ ',/\'.y -v
occur.
No appropriate habitat on
project site; not likely to
occur.
No extant habitat; not
expected to occur.
No extant habitat; no vernal
pools.
No appropriate habitat on
project site; not likely to
occur.
No appropriate habitat on
project site; not likely to
occur.
No extant habitat; no vernal
pools.
No extant habitat; no vernal
pools.
No extant habitat; no vernal
pools.
Mo appropriate habitat on
project site; not likely to
occur.
No extant habitat; not
expected to occur.
& ASSOCIATES, INC.
2798-01
Professional T«onu for Complex Pro/et
October 13,2003 Page 15
c
Mr. William E. Plummer
Re: Biological Resources Letter Report for the Highland Drive Storm Drain Replacement Project,
City of Carlsbad, California
TABLE 3 (Continued)
i%^v^.>K™ •"; ":;• -•\ r,H£% Species/Habitat
San Miguel savory
Satureja chandler!
Gander's butterweed
Senecio gander i
narrow-leaved nightshade2
Solanum tenuilobatum(- S.xantih
Parry's tetracoccus2
Tetracoccus dioicus
Regulatory
Status
FWS: None
CDFG: None
CNPS: 16,2-2-2
FWS: None
CDFG: Rare
CNPS: 18,3-2-3
FWS: None
CDFG: None
CNPS: considered but
rejected
FWS: None
CDFG: None
CNPS: 1B, 3-2-2
Habitat/Location Y
Mixed chaparral, chamise
chaparral on metavolcanic and
gabbro soils over 1000 feet
AMSL.
Mixed chaparral, chamise
chaparral and gabbro soils at
elevations greater than 1,000
feet AMSL.
Open chamise chaparral and
coastal sage scrub,
predominantly in the Otay
region of San Diego County.
Southern mixed and chamise
chaparrals on gabbro soils over
500 feet AMSL.
^•^^M^^^-S/^'
No appropriate habitat on
project site; not likely to
occur.
No appropriate habitat on
project site; not likely to
occur.
No appropriate habitat on
project site; not likely to
occur.
No appropriate habitat on
project site; not likely to
occur.
CNPS
MSCP Narrow Endemic Species
Perennial species that would have been observed if present.
California Native Plant Society
Sensitive Wildlife Resources
No state- or federally-listed threatened or endangered species were observed onsite and none
are expected to occur. The focused survey for California gnatcatcher was negative and
habitat quality was marginal. Based on general information regarding wildlife distributions
in the area, the site potentially could support a few California species of special concern.
These species are discussed below. The listing authorities for sensitive wildlife species and
explanation of listing categories are presented in Appendix C. A list of state- or federally-listed
species and sensitive species which may potentially occur based on habitats present are
discussed in Table 4; while some of the species have the potential to occur onsite during
migration or for foraging purposes, few have the potential to breed onsite.
|& ASSOCIATES, INC.
2798-01
Professional Teams for Complex Project*
October 13,2003 Page 16
o
Mr. William E. Plummer
Re: Biological Resources Letter Report for the Highland Drive Storm Drain Replacement Project,
City of Carlsbad, California
TABLE 4
MHCP-LISTED SENSITIVE WILDLIFE SPECIES
AND POTENTIAL TO OCCUR ONSITE
it.-,- "•-, . ': ••'•& "'.iW 'f ; Species
Quino checkerspot
Euphydryas edit ha quino
saltmarsh skipper
Panoquina errans
Harbison's dun skipper
Euplyes vestis harbinsoni
oblivious tiger beetle
Cicindela latesignata
obliviosa
San Diego fairy shrimp
Branchinecta
sandiegoensis
Riverside fairy shrimp
Streptocephalus wootoni
tidewater goby
Eucyclogobius newberryi
Western spadefoot toad
Scaphiopus hammondi
Arroyo southwestern toad
Bufo microscaphus
californicus
California red-legged frog
ffana aurora draytoni
Conservation
Status
USFWS: Endangered
CDFG: None
USFWS: None
CDFG: None
USFWS: None
CDFG: None
USFWS: None
CDFG: None
USFWS: Endangered
CDFG: None
USFWS: Endangered
CDFG: None
USFWS: Endangered
CDFG: Endangered
USFWS: None
CDFG: Species of
concern
USFWS: endangered
CDFG: species of
concern
USFWS: Threatened
CDFG: Species of
concern
Narrow
Endemic
Status
X
X
X
X
Habitat j
Open habitats with
plantain or owl's clover.
salt or alkali marsh
Riparian woodland,
riparian scrub habitats
estuaries, coastal dunes
vernal pools on clayey
soils
vernal pools on clayey
soils
ocean estuaries
vernal pools, ponded
areas, grasslands
riparian zones with
dynamic, cobble lined,
shallow ponds
riparian zones and
freshwater marsh above
500 feet AMSL
•: 7I:§^H^:-f/\:
No host plants present;
nearest known extant
populations occur at Otay
Valley, San Vicinte
Reservoir, and Riverside
County; Surveys are not
required here.
Highly unlikely due to lack
of habitat.
Highly unlikely due to poor
available habitat
resources.
Highly unlikely due to lack
of habitat.
Vernal pool habitat not
present.
Vernal pool habitat not
present.
None due to lack of
habitat.
Low potential due to poor
habitat quality and lack of
pool resources.
Suitable habitat not
present.
Suitable habitat not
present.
& ASSOClATEslNC.
Profeuional Teanu for Complex Project*
October 13,2003
2798-01
Page 17
o
Mr. William £. Plummer
Re: Biological Resources Letter Report for the Highland Drive Storm Drain Replacement Project,
City of Carlsbad, California
TABLE 4 (Continued)
%vv '/'"-•
'•1±L.7-' 'Species '
southwestern pond turtle
Clemmys marmorata
pallida
San Diego horned lizard
Phrynosoma coronatum
blainvillei
orange-throated whiptail
Cnemidophorus
hyperythrus beldingi
California brown pelican
Pelicanus occidentalis
californicus
white-faced ibis
Plegadis chihi
Canada goose
Branta canadensis moffitti
Cooper's hawk
Accipiter cooperii
Swainson's hawk
Buteo swainsoni
ferruginous hawk
Buteo regalis
northern harrier
Circus cyanus
white-tailed kite
Elanus leucophrys
Osprey
bald eagle
Haliaetus leucocephalus
•
;
Conservation
Status
USFWS: None
CDFG: Species of
concern
USFWS: None
CDFG: Species of
Concern
USFWS: None
CDFG: Species of
concern
USFWS: Endangered
CDFG: Endangered
USFWS: None
CDFG: Species of
Concern
USFWS: None
CDFG: None
USFWS: None
CDFG: Species of
Concern
USFWS: None
CDFG: Threatened
USFWS: None
CDFG: Species of
Concern
USFWS: None
CDFG: Species of
Concern
USFWS: None
CDFG: Species of
Concern
USFWS: None
CDFG: Species of
Concern
USFWS: Threatened
CDFG: Endangered
Narrow
Endemic
Jfafo*
:
Habitat
riparian, freshwater
marsh, lakes, ponds
coastal sage scrub,
chaparral, oak woodlands
coastal sage scrub,
grasslands
Lakes and bays
marshes, freshwater
marsh, lakes and bays
grasslands, lakes and bays
riparian, forests
desert scrub
grasslands, desert scrub
grasslands, freshwater
marsh, salt marsh
Grasslands, riparian
Open water, estuaries
lakes, reservoirs, salt
marshes
'•• • ••," :' .;*. •-''• , '"•,••' j.. -':
.:- ^-Jt,|^;:.|,^,^
' Status Potential Onsite
Suitable habitat not
present.
Low potential due to
disturbed and urban nature
of site.
Low potential due to
disturbed and urban nature
of site.
Suitable habitat not
present.
Suitable habitat not
present.
Suitable habitat not
present.
Moderate potential to nest
in eucalyptus woodlands,
but project will not affect
woodlands.
Suitable habitat not
present.
Suitable habitat not
present.
Moderate foraging
potential but no nesting
potential.
Moderate foraging
potential but no nesting
potential.
Suitable habitat not
present.
Suitable habitat not
present.
& ASSOCIATES, INC. I October 13, 2003
2798-01
uionot Teams for Complex Project*
o
Mr. William E. Plummet
Re: Biological Resources Letter Report for the Highland Drive Storm Drain Replacement Project,
City of Carlsbad, California
TABLE 4 (Continued)
'- 1' ••<' 4:, • • ' •
;••*%"-<•?;%«;' „'
.v^^SpieteS •' '
golden eagle
Aquila chrysaetos
American peregrine falcon
Falco peregrinus
light-footed clapper rail
Rallus longirostris levipes
western snowy plover
Charadrius alexandrinus
nivosus
elegant tern
Sterna elegans
California least tern
Sterna antillarum browni
coastal cactus wren
Campylorhynchus
brunneicapillus couesi
burrowing owl
Athene cunicularia
California gnatcatcher
Polioptila calif omica
californica
western bluebird
Sialia mexicana
southwestern willow
flycatcher
Empidonax traillii
least Bell's vireo
Vireo bellii pusillus
southern California rufous-
crowned sparrow
Aimophila ruficeps
canescens
Conservation
1 . Status — :••
USFWS: Protected
CDFG: Species of
Concern
USFWS: Endangered
CDFG: Endangered
USFWS: Endangered
CDFG: Endangered
USFWS: Threatened
CDFG: Species of
Concern
USFWS: None
CDFG: Species of
Concern
USFWS: Endangered
CDFG: Endangered
USFWS: None
CDFG: Species of
Concern
USFWS: None
CDFG: Species of
Concern
USFWS: Threatened
CDFG: Species of
Concern
USFWS: None
CDFG: None
USFWS: Endangered
CDFG: Endangered
USFWS: Endangered
CDFG: Endangered
USFWS: None
CDFG: Species of
Concern
Narrow
'i Endemic
Status — --
X
:*• '-. .'-": Habitat ~:~'
scrub habitats,
grasslands, cliffs
wetlands, grasslands
coastal salt marsh,
brackish marsh
salt or alkali marsh,
coastal dunes, lakes, bays
coastal salt marsh,
estuaries, beaches, dunes
coastal salt marsh,
estuaries, beaches, dunes
southern cactus scrub
grassland, agriculture
habitats
coastal sage scrub
riparian, oak woodlands;
generally above 1000 feet
AMSL
riparian forest, riparian
scrub
riparian
coastal sage scrub
•V#^f •''.•. fjf-S-*: I/-
situs PoteliliDfiisitB
Highly unlikely due to small
project area size and
adjacent development.
Highly unlikely due to
adjacent development.
Suitable habitat not
present.
Suitable habitat not
present.
Suitable habitat not
present.
Suitable habitat not
present.
Suitable habitat not
present.
Unlikely - would have
detected.
Focused surveys were
negative. Habitat quality
is poor.
Individuals may use the
area during the winter for
foraging purposes.
Suitable habitat not
present.
Suitable habitat not
present.
None were detected during
CAGN surveys.
2798-01
& ASSOCIATES. INC. | October 13, 2003
taionol teams for Complex Project*Page 19
Mr. William E. Plummet
Re: Biological Resources Letter Report for the Highland Drive Storm Drain Replacement Project,
City of Carlsbad, California
TABLE 4 (Continued)
;J',«|fft\-( .
'" ;*Vjf ;' "* '> "'•
•">f»*i*
Belding's savannah
sparrow
Passer culus sandwichensis
beldingi
large-billed savannah
sparrow
Passer culus sandwichensis
Bell's sage sparrow
yellow-breasted chat
Pacific pocket mouse
Perognathus longimembris
pacificus
Northwestern San Diego
pocket mouse
Stephens' kangaroo rat
Dipodomys stephensii
San Diego black-tailed
jackrabbit
Lepus calif ornicus benneti
mountain lion
Felis con color
southern mule deer
Odocoileous hemionus
fulginata
. Conservation
Status
USFWS: None
CDFG: Endangered
USFWS: None
CDFG: Species of
Concern
USFWS: None
CDFG: Species of
Special Concern
USFWS: None
CDFG: Species of
Special Concern
USFWS Endangered
CDFG Species of
Special Concern
USFWS: None
CDFG: Species of
Special Concern
USFWS: Endangered
CDFG: Endangered
USFWS: None
CDFG: Species of
Special Concern
USFWS: None
CDFG: None
USFWS: None
CDFG: None
Narrow
Endemic
Status ;
X
Habitat
salt or alkali marsh
salt or alkali marsh
Open, hilly upland habitats
Riparian habitats
Fine-grain, sandy
substrates on maritime
terraces within 4
kilometers of the coast
scrub and chaparral
habitats
open grasslands
grassland, scrub habitats
grassland, scrub,
chaparral, woodland,
riparian habitats
grassland, scrub,
chaparral, woodland,
riparian habitats
. •i-,;')f^fr'-f'':'~^ '„• ••*!,' •*"-'
T:'>?':Cl^-%|^^: I^'P'-"' -
Suitable habitat not
present.
Suitable habitat not
present.
Highly unlikely due to poor
suitable habitat quality.
Suitable habitat not
present.
Suitable habitat not
present. No burrows were
detected during survey.
No suitable habitat within
impact areas.
No suitable habitat within
impact areas. Outside of
range.
No suitable habitat within
impact areas.
Highly unlikely due to small
patch size, adjacent
development, and minimal
connection to suitable
sized patches
Unlikely due to adjacent
development and lack of
sign.
& ASSOCIATES, INC. | October 13,2003
Prof«uionol Teams for Comdex Project*
2798-01
Page 20
o
Mr. William E. Plummet
Re: Biological Resources Letter Report for the Highland Drive Storm Drain Replacement Project,
City of Carlsbad, California
Sensitive Habitats
Sensitive habitats are those that are considered rare or declining in the region or support
sensitive plant and/or wildlife species. The following habitat types are considered sensitive
and require mitigation: coastal sage scrub (disturbed and sparse), and jurisdictional stream
channel. The jurisdictional stream channel and giant reed habitat is under the jurisdiction
of the CDFG, pursuant to Section 1601-1603 of the California Fish and Game Code, the
ACOE, pursuant to Section 404 of the Clean Water Act, and the RWQCB pursuant to Section
401 of the federal Clean Water Act.
PROJECT IMPACTS
This section addresses impacts to biological resources that would result from the project and
provides analysis of significance for each potential impact. Impacts to biological resources
can be direct - resulting from the permanent removal of habitat, or indirect - resulting from
changes in land use adjacent to natural habitat (e.g., increased light, noise, and urban runoff,
interruption of wildlife movement, etc.). Both of these types of impacts and their levels of
significance are discussed in this section.
The following criteria are used to determine the significance of an impact:
1. Substantial effect on a rare or endangered plant or animal or habitat of that species
is considered a significant impact.
2. Substantial interference with the movement of any resident or migratory fish or
wildlife species is considered a significant impact.
3. Substantial reduction of habitat for fish, wildlife, or plants is considered a
significant impact.
4. Impacts require the issuance of specific resource agency permits, waivers, or
coordination.
Impacts to Plant Communities
Table 5 presents the project impacts by site location. Figure 4 depicts the impacts.
2798-01
October 13,2003 Page 21
P»of«iiionof Teams for Complex Project*
o
Mr. William E. Plummer
Re: Biological Resources Letter Report for the Highland Drive Storm Drain Replacement Project,
City of Carlsbad, California
TABLE 5
IMPACT ACREAGES - HIGHLAND DRIVE STORM DRAIN PROJECT
:,,, I ,-«•'•' •'•*;• j'- Plant Community \
Coastal Sage Scrub
Disturbed Coastal Sage Scrub
Sparse Coastal Sage Scrub
Open Channel
Eucalyptus Woodland
Annual (non-native) Grassland
Giant Reed
Developed/Ornamental
TOTAl
Existing Acreage
0.01
0.14
0.06
0.05
0.03
0.01
<0.01
0.07
0.38
Impacted Acreage
0
0.06
0.03
0.05
0
0
0
0.03
0.17
Implementation of the proposed project would result in the direct impacts to 0.06 acre of
disturbed coastal sage scrub, 0.03 acre of sparse coastal sage scrub, 0.05 acre of open channel,
and 0.03 acre of developed/ornamental land coverages. The proposed project may cause
indirect impacts to adjacent habitat (predominantly coastal sage scrub) by the increased
presence of people, light, construction noise, and pollution. However, this is not anticipated
to be significant.
Impacts to Jurisdictional Waters of the U.S.
As illustrated in Table 5 and Figure 4, the proposed development would impact 0.05 acre
(approximately 210 linear feet) of open channel. Regarding the Highland Drive project, most
of the edge effects are expected to occur along the eastern and northern property boundary
where off site residences may be indirectly impacted due to construction activities. During
construction of the project, short-term indirect impacts to downstream waters may include
dust and noise which may temporarily disrupt habitat and species vitality and construction-
related soil erosion and runoff. However, with respect to the latter indirect impact, all
project grading will be subject to the typical restrictions and requirements that address
erosion and runoff, including the federal Clean Water Act, National Pollution Discharge
Elimination System (NPDES), and preparation of a Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan
(SWPPP). Long-term indirect impacts to downstream waters may include effects of toxic
chemicals (e.g., fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, and other hazardous materials), urban runoff
from developed areas, litter, and hydrological changes (e.g., groundwater level and quality).
|& ASSOCIATES, INC.
2798-01
Pvofuwicmaf Teonu for Complex Project*
October 13,2003 Page 22
c
Mr. William E. Plummet
Re: Biological Resources Letter Report for the Highland Drive Storm Drain Replacement Project,
City of Carlsbad, California
Figure 4
& ASSOCIATES, INC.
2798-01
r Complex Project!
October 13,2003 Page 23
o
Legend
1 Project Boundary
Impacted Area
| | Vegetation Boundary
Vegetation Types:
AGL = Annual (non-native) Grassland
ARDO = Giant Reed
CSS = Coastal Sage Scrub
DEV/ORN = Developed/Ornamental
EW = Eucalyptus Woodland
OC = Open Channel
dCSS = disturbed Coastal Sage Scrub
sCSS = sparse Coastal Sage Scrub Feet I
BASE MAP SOURCE: Terra Data, 10-7-03 50
Highland Drive Storm Drain Project
Biological Resources Map with Impacted Area
o
Mr. William E. Plummer
Re: Biological Resources Letter Report for the Highland Drive Storm Drain Replacement Project,
City of Carlsbad, California
Removal of vegetation and introduction of fill in the channel would not increase the drainage
flow velocity, therefore, there shall be no potential indirect impacts to biological resources
downstream.
Impacts to Sensitive Plants
No sensitive plant species were identified during the field survey, although surveys were
conducted late in the season. The nature of the habitat onsite is quite disturbed and appears
to be the result of erosion, human disturbance, and the invasion of non-native and
ornamental species. Due to the existing conditions of the project area and continued
activities that have occurred within the majority of the surrounding area, it is highly unlikely
that any sensitive plant species would occur on the property; therefore, implementation of
the proposed project would not directly impact any sensitive plant species. Likewise, no
indirect impacts to sensitive plant species are expected.
Impacts to Sensitive Wildlife
The only potential listed species which might occur on site is the California gnatcatcher,
however focused surveys were negative. Therefore, the proposed project will not have a
direct impact on listed wildlife. There is some potential for other sensitive species to occur
on site, however, these species are likely to temporarily vacate the area once work begins.
Indirect impacts to breeding birds may occur if activities occur during the breeding season.
These impacts would be associated with grading activities and temporary. These indirect
impacts can be avoided by constructing outside the breeding season or assuring that
construction activity will not result in noise levels above 60 dBA leq at the nest site.
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANCE AND SUGGESTED MITIGATION & PERMITTING
Coastal sage scrub occupies about 8-10 percent of San Diego County's total area. Hix (1990)
indicates that this community has been reduced by greater than 70 percent of its original
coverage, primarily as a consequence of housing and other urban developments. Because
coastal sage scrub is known to support a variety of sensitive species regionally, and because
it has been reduced in acreage throughout San Diego County, it is considered a sensitive
habitat by local, state and federal agencies and is regulated by the City of Carlsbad's HMP.
2798-01
I & ASSOCIATES, INC. ^""™""~ "™^^^^~"™™^^™™™'>™~1"^^^^^^^^^^^
nal Teams for Complex Projects
October 13,2003 Page 24
o
Mr. William E. Plummet
Re: Biological Resources Letter Report for the Highland Drive Storm Drain Replacement Project,
City of Carlsbad, California
Loss of 0.09 acre of disturbed and sparse phases of coastal sage scrub is regarded as significant
and would require mitigation in accordance with the HMP.
Other non-developed lands (exclusive of open channel habitats which require separate
permitting) are regulated under the HMP. Therefore impacts to these areas are considered
to be significant.
Impacts to 0.05-acre of open channel is considered to be significant. Temporary impacts and
indirect impacts associated with the project would be significant if not addressed through the
implementation of proper construction monitoring and design of the project's permanent
Best Management Practices (BMPs). BMPs will be implemented before and following
construction to ensure that siltation and erosion are minimized within the drainage onsite
and will be incorporated into the final design of the project, as part of the SWPPP; in order
to ensure that water quality is not degraded.
Coastal Sage Scrub & Upland Habitats Mitigation Strategy
The HMP was approved by City Council on 17 June 2003, and has also been approved by the
Coastal Commission. However, the USFWS has not processed a Biological Opinion on it yet,
so in effect it has not been implemented. Under the HMP, as approved by the City and
Coastal Commission, would require that projects pay a fee to the City on a per acre basis.
However, the City owns a mitigation bank at Calaveras Lake. The City is also required under
the HMP to mitigate impacts to coastal sage scrub habitats at a 1:1 ratio.
Assuming that the City believes the USFWS will soon submit its Biological Opinion and
wishes to follow the HMP standards, mitigation for all non-developed, coastal sage scrub, and
open channel habitats will occur by preserving comparable acreage at the Calaveras Lake
Mitigation Bank. Mitigation for impacts to coastal sage scrub habitats will occur at a 1:1
ratio of direct replacement at the Calaveras Lake Mitigation Bank. If the City does not wish
to wait for the USFWS Biological Opinion, then it may pursue a Section 4(d) Deminimus
Exepmtion under the federal Endangered Species Act. This allows the City to exceed its 5%
coastal sage scrub take allowance. In order to utilize the exemption, the City must prove 1)
that the project will impact less than an acre of coastal sage scrub; 2) coastal sage scrub
habitat is not occupied by California gnatcatchers, and; 3) that impacts to habitat will not
affect California gnatcatcher recovery. All of these conclusions can be made for this project.
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Mr. William E. Plummer
Re: Biological Resources Letter Report for the Highland Drive Storm Drain Replacement Project,
City of Carlsbad, California
Assuming that the City will utilize the strategy outlined for the HMP, mitigation for impacts
to coastal sage scrub will include setting aside 0.09 acre of coastal sage scrub specific habitat
at the Lake Calaveras Mitigation Bank. Similarly, mitigation for other upland habitat impacts
include setting aside 0.03 acre of general credits at the Lake Calaveras Mitigation Bank.
Open Channel Mitigation Strategy
Required wetlands associated permits for project activities will be pursuant to the U.S. Army
Corps of Engineers (ACOE) Section 404 nationwide permit 12, Regional Water Quality
Control Board Section 401 Water Quality Certification, and the California Department of
Fish and Game Section 1603 Streambed Alteration Agreement regulations. Nationwide
permit 12 allows post-construction notification if the project impacts less than 0.10 acre and
is less than 500 linear feet. This project satisfies those criteria. However, projects do not
qualify if they are considered if the line is placed in a waters of the U.S. and runs parallel to
it. This point is subject to interpretation but appears to apply to this project. Therefore it
appears (subject to consultation with the ACOE) that the project would be required to pre-
notify and obtain permits from all the agencies prior to project implementation. This process
is likely to take between three to six months to complete once the respective agencies have
a complete permit application (including submittal of certified or adopted CEQA documents).
Regardless, direct impacts to 0.05 acre of open channel associated with the storm water line
replacement project will likely be required to mitigate through the creation and
enhancement of wetlands habitat at a ratio of 2:1. Total mitigation required is anticipated
to be 0.10 acre.
Please contact me at (760) 942-5147 with any questions you have.
Very truly yours,
Dudek arid Associates, Inc.
mock A. 9-r-tega
Senior Wildlife Biologist
An: Appendix A Vascular Plant Species
Appendix B Wildlife Species
Appendix C Species Sensitivity Categories
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Mr. William E. Plummet
Re: Biological Resources Letter Report for the Highland Drive Storm Drain Replacement Project,
City of Carlsbad, California
LITERATURE CITED
Abrams, L 1923. Illustrated flora of the Pacific States. Stanford University Press, Stanford,
California. Volumes 1-4.
American Ornithologists' Union. 2000. Check-list of North American birds. The Auk
117:847-858.
Beauchamp, R. M. 1986. A flora of San Diego County, California. Sweetwater Press,
National City, California. 241 pp.
Bond, S. I. 1977. An annotated list of the mammals of San Diego County, California. Trans.
San Diego X. Nat. Hist. 18:229-248.
Bowman, R. H. 1973. Soil survey of San Diego Area, California, Part 1. United States
Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation Service and Forest Service. 104 pp.
California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG). 2000 (January). California Natural
Diversity Database, Special Animals. The Resources Agency, Wildlife and Habitat Data
Analysis Branch.
Emmel, T. C. andJ.F.Emmel. 1973. The butterflies of southern California. Natural History
Museum of Los Angeles County, Science Series 26:1-148.
Everett, W. T. 1979. Sensitive, threatened and declining bird species of San Diego County.
San Diego Audubon Society Sketches 29:2-3.
Hickman, J. C. 1993. The Jepson manual: Higher plants of California. University of
California Press, Berkeley. 1400 pp.
Holland, R. F. 1986. Preliminary descriptions of the terrestrial natural communities of
California. Nongame-Heritage Program, California Department of Fish and Game.
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October 13,2003 Page 27
Mr. William E. Plummet
Re: Biological Resources Letter Report for the Highland Drive Storm Drain Replacement Project,
City of Carlsbad, California
Jones, H. L 1991. A rangewide assessment of the California gnatcatcher (Polioptila
californica). Unpublished report prepared for the Building Industry Association of
Southern California, Santa Ana.
Jones, J. K., Jr., D. C. Carter, H. H. Genoways, R. S. Hoffman, and D. W. Rice. 1992. Revised
checklist of North American mammals north of Mexico. Occasional Papers of the
Museum of Texas Tech University, no. 146.
McGurty, B. M. 1980. Survey and status of endangered and threatened species of reptiles
natively occurring in San Diego, California. San Diego Herpetological Society.
Munz, P. 1974. A flora of southern California. University of California Press, Berkeley,
California. 1086pp.
Murphy, D. D. 1990. A report on the California butterflies listed as candidates for
endangered status by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service. Draft Report for
California Department of Fish and Game, Contract No. C-1755. 60 pp.
Reed, P. B. 1988. National list of plant species that occur in wetlands: California (Region
0). U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Biological Report 88 (26.10).
Remsen, J. V. 1978. Bird species of special concern in California: An annotated list of
declining or vulnerable bird species. Administrative Report No. 78-1. Nongame Wildlife
Investigations, Wildlife Management Branch, California Department of Fish and Game.
Skinner, M. W. and B. M. Pavlik. 1994. California Native Plant Society's Inventory of Rare
and Endangered Vascular Plants of California. Special Publication No. 1 (5th Edition),
California Native Plant Society, Sacramento, California. 338 pp.
Stebbins, R. C. 1985. A field guide to western reptiles and amphibians. Houghton Mifflin
Co., Boston, Mass.
United States Army Corps of Engineers. 1987. Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation
Manual, Technical Report Y-87-1, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Waterways
Experiment Station, Vicksburg, Mississippi.
United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 1994. Federal Register, Endangered and
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Mr. William E. Plummer
Re: Biological Resources Letter Report for the Highland Drive Storm Drain Replacement Project,
City of Carlsbad, California
Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Determination of Endangered Status for the Arroyo
Southwestern Toad, Final Rule. 50 CFR Part 17. Department of the Interior.
United States Fish and Wildlife Service. (USFWS). 2000. Federally listed and candidate
species that may occur within the jurisdiction of the Carlsbad Fish and Wildlife Office.
Provided by the USFWS Carlsbad Fish and Wildlife Office on November 1, 2000.
Unitt, P. A. 1984. Birds of San Diego County. Memoir 13, San Diego Society of Natural
History. 287pp.
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APPENDICES
Appendix A
Vascular Plant Species
Mr. William E. Plummer
Re: Biological Resources Letter Report for the Highland Drive Storm Drain Replacement Project,
City of Carlsbad, California
APPENDIX A
HIGHLAND DRIVE VASCULAR PLANT SPECIES
CONIFERAE
CUPRESSACEAE - CYPRESS FAMILY
* Juniperus sp. - juniper
PINACEAE - PINE FAMILY
Pinus attenuata - knobcone pine
ANGIOSPERMAE (DICOTYLEDONS)
AIZOACEAE - CARPET-WEED FAMILY
* Carpobrotus edulis - hottentot-fig
ANACARDIACEAE - SUMAC FAMILY
Rhus integrifolia - lemonadeberry
ASTERACEAE - SUNFLOWER FAMILY
Artemisia californica - coastal sagebrush
* Centaurea melitensis - tocalote
* Cirsium vulgare -bull thistle
* Conyza canadensis - horseweed
Encelia californica - California bush sunflower
Gnaphalium californicum - California everlasting
Heterotheca grandiflora - telegraph weed
Isocoma menziesii ssp. veneta - coastal goldenbush
Lessingia filaginifolia - virgate cudweed aster
BRASSICACEAE - MUSTARD FAMILY
* Brassica nigra - black mustard
* Lobularia maritima - sweet-alyssum
* Raphanus sativus - wild radish
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Mr. William E. Plummet
Re: Biological Resources Letter Report for the Highland Drive Storm Drain Replacement Project,
City of Carlsbad, California
APPENDIX A (Continued)
* Sisymbrium orientate - Oriental mustard
CACTACEAE - CACTUS FAMILY
Opuntia littoralis - coastal prickly-pear
CAPRIFOLIACEAE - HONEYSUCKLE FAMILY
Sambucus mexicana - Mexican elderberry
CHENOPODIACEAE - GOOSEFOOT FAMILY
* Atriplex semibaccata - Australian saltbush
* Chenopodium murale - nettle-leaved goosefoot
* Salsola tragus - Russian-thistle
CRASSULACEAE - STONECROP FAMILY
Crassula connata - dwarf stonecrop
CUCURBITACEAE - GOURD FAMILY
Marah macrocarpus - wild cucumber
ERICACEAE - HEATH FAMILY
Xylococcus bicolor - mission manzanita
EUPHORBIACEAE - SPURGE FAMILY
Chamaesyce albomarginata - rattlesnake spurge
Croton californicus - California croton
* Euphorbia peplus - petty spurge
Ricinus communis - castor-bean
FABACEAE - PEA FAMILY
* Acacia, spp. - acacia
Lotus scoparius - deerweed
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Mr. William E. Plummet
Re: Biological Resources Letter Report for the Highland Drive Storm Drain Replacement Project,
City of Carlsbad, California
APPENDIX A (Continued)
LAMIACEAE - MINT FAMILY
Salvia mellifera - black sage
MYRTACEAE - MYRTLE FAMILY
* Eucalyptus sp. - eucalyptus
NYCTAGINACEAE - FOUR O'CLOCK FAMILY
* Bougainvillea sp. - bougainvillea
OLEACEAE - OLIVE FAMILY
* Olea euroyaea - mission olive
ONAGRACEAE - EVENING-PRIMROSE FAMILY
Epilobium ciliatum - California cottonweed
Camissonia bistona - California sun cup
POLYGONACEAE - BUCKWHEAT FAMILY
Eriogonum fasciculatum - California buckwheat
RHAMNACEAE - BUCKTHORN FAMILY
Rhamnus crocea - redberry
ROSACEAE - ROSE FAMILY
Adenostoma fasciculatum - chamise
Heteromeles arbutifolia - toyon
RUTACEAE - RUE FAMILY
Cneoridium dumosum - bushrue, coast spicebush
SOLANACEAE - NIGHTSHADE FAMILY
* Nicotiana glauca - tree tobacco
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Mr. William E. Plummet
Re: Biological Resources Letter Report for the Highland Drive Storm Drain Replacement Project,
City of Carlsbad, California
APPENDIX A (Continued)
ANGIOSPERMAE (MONOCOTYLEDONES)
LILIACEAE - LILY FAMILY
Yucca whipylei - our lord's candle
POACEAE - GRASS FAMILY
* Arundo donax - giant reed
* Bromus diandrus - ripgut grass
* Bromus madritensis ssp. rubens - foxtail chess
Distichlis spicata - salt grass
Melica imperfecta - California melic
Nassella pulchra - purple needlegrass
signifies introduced (non-native) species
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Appendix B
Wildlife Species
Mr. William E. Plummet
Re: Biological Resources Letter Report for the Highland Drive Storm Drain Replacement Project,
City of Carlsbad, California
APPENDIX B
WILDLIFE SPECIES OBSERVED OR
DETECTED ON THE OCEAN RANCH PROJECT
WILDLIFE SPECIES -VERTEBRATES
REPTILES
IGUANIDAE - IGUANIDS
Sceloporus occidentalis - western fence lizard
Uta stansburiana - side-blotched lizard
BIRDS
CATHARTIDAE - NEW WORLD VULTURES
Cathartes aura - turkey vulture
ACCIPITRIDAE - HAWKS
Buteo famaicensis - red-tailed hawk
FALCONIDAE - FALCONS
Fako sparverius - American kestrel
CHARADRIIDAE - PLOVERS
Charadrius vociferus - killdeer
COLUMBIDAE - DOVES
Zenaida macroura - mourning dove
TROCHILIDAE - HUMMINGBIRDS
Archilochus anna. - Anna's hummingbird
PICIDAE - WOODPECKERS
Picoides nuttallii - Nuttall's woodpecker
TYRANNIDAE - FLYCATCHERS
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Mr. William E. Plummet
Re: Biological Resources Letter Report for the Highland Drive Storm Drain Replacement Project,
City of Carlsbad, California
APPENDIX B (Continued)
Sayornis nigricans - black phoebe
Tyrannus vociferans - Cassin's kingbird
CORVIDAE - RAVENS
Aphelocoma coerulescens - scrub jay
Corvus corax - common raven
STURNIDAE - STARLINGS
Sturnus vulgaris - European starling
AEGITHALIDAE - BUSHTITS
Psaltriparus minimus - bushtit
TROGLODYTIDAE - WRENS
Thryomanes bewickii - Bewick's wren
MIMIDAE - THRASHERS
Mimus polyglottos - northern mockingbird
FRINGILLIDAE - FINCHES
Carpodacus mexicanus - house finch
Cardmlis psaltria - lesser goldfinch
EMBERIZIDAE - WARBLERS, SPARROWS & BLACKBIRDS
Fifth crissalis - California towhee
Zonotrichia mdodia - song sparrow
Mohthrus ater - brown-headed cowbird
MAMMALS
LEPORIDAE - HARES & RABBITS
Sylvilagus bachmani - brush rabbit
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Mr. William E. Plummet
Re: Biological Resources Letter Report for the Highland Drive Storm Drain Replacement Project,
City of Carlsbad, California
APPENDIX B (Continued)
SCIURIDAE - SQUIRRELS
Spermophilus beech&yi - California ground squirrel
GEOMYIDAE - POCKET GOPHERS
Thomomys bottae - Botta's pocket gopher
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Appendix C
Species Sensitivity Categories
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Mr. William E. Plummer
Re: Biological Resources Letter Report for the Highland Drive Storm Drain Replacement Project,
City of Carlsbad, California
APPENDIX C
Federal (1996)
Endangered.
Threatened.
Category 1.
SPECIES SENSITIVITY CATEGORIES
Taxa threatened throughout all or a significant portion of their
range.
Taxa likely to become endangered in the foreseeable future.
Taxa for which the USFWS has enough information on
biological vulnerability and threat(s) to support listing them as
endangered or threatened species.
Category 2. A category formerly used for taxa for which information in
possession of the USFWS indicated that listing as endangered or
threatened may be appropriate but for which sufficient data to
support the preparation of rules were unavailable. This category
has been eliminated owing to its frequent misinterpretation.
Category 3. Taxa that were once considered for listing as endangered or
threatened, but are currently not receiving such consideration.
These taxa are included in one of the following three
subcategories.
Subcategory 3A: Taxa presumed to be extinct.
Subcategory 3B: Taxa whose names do not meet the Endangered Species Act's
legal definition of species.
Subcategory 3C: Taxa now considered to be more widespread that originally
thought.
Note: The taxa in Categories 1 and 2 are candidates for possible addition to the list of
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Mr. William E. Plummer
Re: Biological Resources Letter Report for the Highland Drive Storm Drain Replacement Project,
City of Carlsbad, California
endangered and threatened species. The USFWS encourages their consideration in
environmental planning.
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Mr. William E. Plummet
Re: Biological Resources Letter Report for the Highland Drive Storm Drain Replacement Project,
City of Carlsbad, California
APPENDIX C (Continued)
State of California (1990)
Endangered. Taxa which are in serious danger of becoming extinct throughout all, or
a significant portion, of their range due to one or more causes including
loss of habitat, change in habitat, over exploitation, predation,
competition, or disease (Section 2062 of the Fish and Game Code).
Threatened. Taxa which, although not presently threatened with extinction, are likely
to become endangered species in the foreseeable future (Section 2067 of
the Fish and Game Code).
Rare. Taxa which, although not presently threatened with extinction, are
present in such small numbers throughout their range that they may
become endangered if the present environment worsens (Section 1901 of
the Fish and Game Code).
Candidate. Taxa which the Fish and Game Commission has formally noticed as being
under review by the Department in addition to the list of threatened and
endangered species.
California Native Plant Society (1994)
Lists
1A: Presumed Extinct in California
IB: Rare or Endangered in California and Elsewhere
2: Rare or Endangered in California, More Common Elsewhere
3: Need More Information
4: Plants of Limited Distribution
Note: Plants on CNPS list IB meet California Department of Fish and Game Criteria
for Rare or Endangered listing.
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Mr. William E. Plummet
Re: Biological Resources Letter Report for the Highland Drive Storm Drain Replacement Project,
City of Carlsbad, California
APPENDIX C (Continued)
R-E-D code
R (Rarity)
1- Rare, but found in sufficient numbers and distributed widely enough that the
potential for extinction or extirpation is low at this time.
2- Occurrence confined to several populations or to one extended population.
3- Occurrence limited to one or a few highly restricted populations, or present in such
small numbers that it is seldom reported.
E (Endangerment)
1- Not endangered
2- Endangered in a portion of its range
3- Endangered throughout its range
D (Distribution)
1- More or less widespread outside of California
2- Rare outside California
3- Endemic to California
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