The URL can be used to link to this page

Home My WebLink About3919A; Encinas Creek Bridge Replacement Project; Encinas Creek Bridge Replacement Project; 2012-07-01YEAR 2 REVEGETATION MONITORING REPORT ENCINAS CREEK BRIDGE REPLACEMENT PROJECT SAN DIEGO COUNTY, CALIFORNIA Prepared for: City of Carlsbad 1635 Faraday Avenue Carlsbad, California 92008 Contact: Sherri Howard Sherri.Howard@carlsbadca.gov (760) 602-2756 Prepared by: AECOM 1420 Kettner Boulevard, Suite 500 San Diego, California 92101 Contact: Julia Groebner julia.groebner@aecom.com (619) 233-1454 July 2012 Encinas Creek Bridge Replacement Project Page i Year 2 Revegetation Monitoring Report TABLE OF CONTENTS Section Page 1.0 INTRODUCTION ...............................................................................................................1 1.1 Project Description and Impacts ............................................................................. 1 1.2 Project Location ...................................................................................................... 2 1.3 Permit Requirements ............................................................................................... 6 1.4 Performance Criteria ............................................................................................... 6 2.0 YEAR 2 MAINTENANCE AND MONITORING .............................................................7 2.1 Semimonthly Maintenance Visits ........................................................................... 7 2.2 Supplemental Planting and Seeding ........................................................................ 8 2.3 Monthly Qualitative Monitoring ........................................................................... 10 3.0 YEAR 2 ANNUAL MONITORING RESULTS AND COMPARISON TO SUCCESS STANDARDS .............................................................................................................11 3.1 Coastal and Valley Freshwater Marsh .................................................................. 11 3.1.1 Container Plant Survival ........................................................................... 12 3.1.2 Native Seed Germination and Cover ......................................................... 13 3.1.3 Weed Control ............................................................................................ 14 3.1.4 Trash and Debris ....................................................................................... 14 3.1.5 Erosion Control ......................................................................................... 14 3.2 Disturbed Upland Habitat ..................................................................................... 14 3.2.1 Native Seed Germination and Cover ......................................................... 14 3.2.2 Weed Control ............................................................................................ 15 3.2.3 Trash and Debris ....................................................................................... 15 3.2.4 Erosion Control ......................................................................................... 15 4.0 CONCLUSION ..................................................................................................................16 ATTACHMENT 1. Photo Monitoring Page ii Encinas Creek Bridge Replacement Project Year 2 Revegetation Monitoring Report LIST OF FIGURES Figure Page 1 Regional Map .......................................................................................................................3 2 Project Vicinity ....................................................................................................................4 3 Project Footprint and Permanent Photostations ...................................................................5 LIST OF TABLES Table Page 1 Permits Required for the Encinas Creek Bridge Replacement Project ................................2 2 Coastal and Valley Freshwater Marsh Success Standards ...................................................6 3 Disturbed Upland Habitat Success Standards ......................................................................7 4 Upland Habitat Supplemental Plant Palette .........................................................................8 5 Wetland Habitat Supplemental Plant Palette .......................................................................9 6 Upland Habitat Modified Seed Mix ...................................................................................10 7 Encinas Creek Year 2 Species List ....................................................................................12 8 Coastal and Valley Freshwater Marsh Container Plant Palette .........................................13 Encinas Creek Bridge Replacement Project Page 1 Year 2 Revegetation Monitoring Report 1.0 INTRODUCTION This Year 2 annual monitoring report is being submitted to the Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB) under Permit 09C-046, Condition A10, on behalf of the City of Carlsbad (City). This report provides a comprehensive analysis for Year 2 of the revegetation maintenance and monitoring for the Encinas Creek Bridge Replacement Project along Pacific Coast Highway (Carlsbad Boulevard) in Carlsbad, California. AECOM was tasked by the City to provide biological monitoring during reconstruction of the bridge, oversee revegetation of the habitat surrounding the bridge (using subcontractor Nature’s Image) during the 90-day plant establishment period (PEP), and maintain and monitor the site for the remainder of the 2 year period following the PEP. The 90-day PEP, which included an initial hydroseed effort and installation of supplemental container plants, ended in August 2010. At that time, AECOM assumed maintenance responsibility for the site. The Year 1 Monitoring Report discussed monitoring and maintenance activities that occurred from August 2010 through June 2011. This report summarizes monitoring and maintenance activities that occurred from July 2011 through May 2012 (Year 2). This represents the final monitoring report that will be prepared for the restoration program and the conclusion of the 2-year maintenance and monitoring period. 1.1 Project Description and Impacts Construction activities associated with the replacement of Encinas Creek Bridge were conducted between February 16 and May 28, 2010. Revegetation of the temporary disturbance areas was completed May 26 through May 28, 2010. The revegetation program was installed per the Encinas Creek Bridge Replacement Project-Temporary Impact Revegetation Specifications, written by AECOM in May 2009. The roadway reopened to traffic on May 28, 2010. Following reopening of the bridge, a 90-day PEP was initiated. During the PEP, the site was maintained by the construction company’s subcontractor, Nature’s Image, and monitored by AECOM. AECOM assumed maintenance responsibility for the site in August 2010, and has maintained and monitored the site since that time. Mitigation for temporary impacts as a result of bridge replacement was required by various project permits and associated documents, as shown in Table 1. Mitigation occurred on-site at a 1:1 replacement ratio within the temporary impact areas. Two primary habitats were impacted: coastal and valley freshwater marsh (CVFM) (0.004 acre) and disturbed upland (0.255 acre). Page 2 Encinas Creek Bridge Replacement Project Year 2 Revegetation Monitoring Report Revegetation included two distinct seed mixes (upland and wetland mixes) and a combination of hydroseeding and container planting. Table 1 Permits Required for the Encinas Creek Bridge Replacement Project California Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB), 401 Water Quality Certification (09C-046) California Coastal Commission (CCC), Coastal Development Permit 6-09-051 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Section 404, Nationwide Permit 14 Linear Transportation Projects, general terms and conditions California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG), Lake or Streambed Alteration Notification No. 1600-2009-0168-R5 Carlsbad Planning Commission Resolutions No. 6624–6627 Department of Parks and Recreation Right of Entry Permit, April 30, 2009 Encinas Creek Bridge Replacement Project – Temporary Impact Revegetation Specifications (AECOM 2009) Encinas Creek Bridge Replacement Project Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program (MMRP) In addition to work in the main revegetation area, two upland vehicle pull-out areas to the north and south of the bridge were used to stage work vehicles during the bridge replacement. Although these upland areas are not formally a part of the revegetation effort, native plants and seed were installed to help reestablish upland native vegetation within these two areas, reduce erosion potential, and discourage future vehicular use. These two areas were qualitatively monitored, but they are not subject to success criteria. At the conclusion of Year 1, the approximate native vegetative cover at the pull-out site north of the bridge was 80%. This area was, therefore, considered successful and was not subject to qualitative monitoring in Year 2. 1.2 Project Location The Encinas Creek Bridge Replacement Project is located south of Palomar Airport Road and West of Interstate 5 in San Diego County in the City of Carlsbad, California. The revegetation site is located at the western terminus of Encinas Creek directly east of Carlsbad Boulevard and Encinas Creek Bridge. Maps of the project vicinity, the specific project location, and permanent photostations are presented in Figures 1, 2, and 3. Figure 1 Regional Map PROJECT LOCATION Encinas Creek Bridge Replacement ProjectYear 2 Revegetation Monitoring ReportP:\2007\07080213.01 Encinas Creek Bridge Replacement\5.0 Graphics (Non-CAD)\5.4 Proj_Graphics\Figures\Fig 1 rmap.ai (dbrady) 3/23/09 Pacif i cOc e a n E n c i n a sC reekStudy Area Car l sbadBl vdSout hCar l sbadSt at eBeachPalomar Airport Rd Avi a r aPkwyP oi ns et t a LaneDe l No rt e CollegeBlvdB atiq u i t o s L a g o o n C a r l s b a d C a r l s b a d E n c i n i t a s E n c i n i t a s Poinsetta Park Aviara Golf Course Legoland Family Park 5 21 Figure 2 Project Vicinity Source: ESRI StreetMap 2007 / EDAW 2009 Scale: 1 : 24,000; 1 inch = 2000 feet 2,000 0 2,0001,000 Feet Path: P:\2007\07080213.01\GIS\Layout\fig_site_vicinity_8x11.mxd, 03/25/09, PJonas Encinas Creek Bridge Replacement ProjectYear 2 Revegetation Monitoring Report Car l sbad Boul evar dCar l sbad Boul evar d[ Sout hbound ] [ Nor t hbound ]Pacific Oc e a n E n c i n as C r e e k New Bridge Footprint Old Bridge Footprint Encinas Creek Bridge Replacement Project Source: DigitalGlobe 2008 / Project Data -- City of Carlsbad 2009 ; SanGIS 2009/ EDAW 2009 Scale: 1 = 1,500; 1 inch = 125 feet Path: P:\2007\07080213.01 Encinas Creek Bridge Replacement\6.0 GIS\6.3 Layout\Revegetation Monitoring Rpt\fig_photopoint_base8x11.mxd, 8/17/2011, augellop I Year 2 Revegetation Monitoring Report Figure 3 Project Footprint and Permanent Photos tations 125 0 12562.5 Feet New Bridge Footprint Old Bridge Footprint LEGEND i!(1i!(7 i!(8i!(6 i!(5 i!(4 i!(3 i!(2 Photostationi !(# Page 6 Encinas Creek Bridge Replacement Project Year 2 Revegetation Monitoring Report 1.3 Permit Requirements As discussed in Section 1.1, revegetation was required by various project permits. As there were no permanent impacts to habitat, revegetation is occurring on-site at a 1:1 replacement ratio within the temporary impact areas, which include CVFM (0.004 acre) and disturbed upland (0.255 acre). 1.4 Performance Criteria The performance criteria for the revegetation site are listed in Tables 2 and 3. Table 2 Coastal and Valley Freshwater Marsh Success Standards Success Standard 90-Day Plant Establishment Period1 Year 1 Year 2 Potential Remedial Measures if Standard Is Not Being Met Container Plant Survival 100% 100% 100% Replant as needed to maintain survival standard; increase plant care (e.g., watering) as needed. Native Seed Germination and Cover 20% cover from seeded species and volunteers 60% cover from seeded species and volunteers 90% cover from seeded species and volunteers Reseed as needed; increase plant care (e.g., watering) and weed control as needed. Weed Control Weed cover less than 5% and no invasive exotics Weed cover less than 1% and no invasive exotics 0% weeds Increase weed control. Trash and Debris No trash or debris No trash or debris No trash or debris Remove trash and debris as needed. Erosion Control No gully formation or associated sediment transport No gully formation or associated sediment transport No gully formation or associated sediment transport Repair erosion, and install and maintain appropriate erosion- control materials. 1 The initial plant establishment period (PEP) of 90 days is the responsibility of the contractor. Following successful completion of the PEP, the remaining maintenance and monitoring requirements will be the responsibility of the City. Encinas Creek Bridge Replacement Project Page 7 Year 2 Revegetation Monitoring Report Table 3 Disturbed Upland Habitat Success Standards Success Standard 90-Day Plant Establishment Period1 Year 1 Year 2 Remedial Measure if Standards Is Not Being Met Seed Germination and Cover 15% cover from seeded species and volunteers (native species and nonproblematic weeds) 50% cover from seeded species and volunteers (native species and nonproble- matic weeds) 80% cover from seeded species and volunteers (native species and nonproblematic weeds) Reseed as needed; increase plant care (e.g., watering) as needed. Weed Control2 Cover of problematic invasive exotics less than 5% Cover of problematic invasive exotics less than 1% 0% cover of problematic invasive exotics Increase weed control of problematic invasive exotics. Trash and Debris No trash or debris No trash or debris No trash or debris Remove trash and debris as needed. Erosion Control No gully/rill formation or associated sediment transport No gully/rill formation or associated sediment transport No gully/rill formation or associated sediment transport Repair erosion, and install and maintain erosion-control materials. 1 The initial plant establishment period (PEP) of 90 days is the responsibility of the contractor. Following successful completion of the PEP, the remaining maintenance and monitoring requirements will be the responsibility of the City. 2 Problematic invasive exotics are defined here as plants listed by the California Invasive Plant Council (Cal-IPC) as “moderate” or “high” threats to California wildlands; www.cal-ipc.org. 2.0 YEAR 2 MAINTENANCE AND MONITORING The following section summarizes the maintenance and monitoring activities completed on-site during Year 2 of the revegetation program. 2.1 Semimonthly Maintenance Visits Maintenance visits were conducted approximately twice per month during Year 2 of the revegetation program. Site maintenance during Year 2 included exotic vegetation removal, herbicide application, trash removal, irrigation, maintenance of erosion-control measures, and supplemental planting. Exotic vegetation was removed either by hand-pulling the plants or via herbicide application. When hand-pulled, exotic vegetation was pulled out of the soil from the roots to inhibit regrowth. Hand-pulled vegetation was removed from the site and disposed of at a proper location. Herbicide application was performed when favorable conditions occurred, Page 8 Encinas Creek Bridge Replacement Project Year 2 Revegetation Monitoring Report including low wind and lack of precipitation. Only herbicide approved for use near water (such as Rodeo) was used at the revegetation site so that water contamination did not occur. The most common exotic species removed from the site included hottentot fig (Carpabrotus edulis), crystalline iceplant (Mesembryanthemum crystallinum), slender-leaf iceplant (Mesembryanthemum nodiflorum), European sea rocket (Cakile maritima), spotted spurge (Chamaesyce maculata), and various nonnative grasses. The maintenance crew watered the site during their visits, unless the site received a rain event of more than 0.25 inch, in which case watering was delayed. The maintenance crew generally did not water during the winter or spring months, as the site received regular rain during that period that was sufficient to support native growth. During the December 21, 2011, site visit, the maintenance crew installed sand bags along the top of the bridge to prevent potential erosion on the slopes below the bridge. In addition, planting and germination of native species on the slopes helped to increase vegetative cover and further stabilize the soil. 2.2 Supplemental Planting and Seeding Supplemental container planting and seeding were recommended for the fall/winter of Year 2 to ensure maximum plant coverage. Supplemental planting was recommended for both the upland and wetland habitats, and supplemental seeding was recommended for the upland habitat only. Therefore, an additional 100 upland container plants were planted by the maintenance crew in December 2011. These plants were distributed throughout the bare upland areas of the site to provide additional native cover. The additional upland container plants planted in December 2011 are summarized in Table 4. Table 4 Upland Habitat Supplemental Plant Palette Common Name Species Approximate Spacing (feet on center) Size/Quantity California buckwheat Eriogonum fasciculatum ssp. fasciculatum 3–5 feet 1 gallon/25 sawtoothed goldenbush Hazardia squarrosa 3–5 feet 1 gallon/25 salt heliotrope Heliotropium curassavicum 3–5 feet 1 gallon/25 coastal goldenbush Isocoma menziesii var. menziesii 3–5 feet 1 gallon/25 Total 100 Encinas Creek Bridge Replacement Project Page 9 Year 2 Revegetation Monitoring Report Because of the high concentration of saltwater in the channel, the emergent wetland species and mulefat cuttings were expected to be marginally successful at best, as these species are not adapted to high levels of salinity. Although the bulrush (Schoenoplectus spp.) planted in the channel survived and expanded during the revegetation program, the broad-leave cattail (Typha latifolia) and mulefat (Baccharis salicifolia) were not as well suited to the higher salt concentrations. Therefore, maintenance efforts during Year 2 focused on increasing native cover in the wetland areas of the site by planting larger amounts of saltmarsh species. During the December 2011 supplemental planting event, the maintenance crew planted additional wetland species (Table 5). The salt grass and alkali heath were planted just above the water line on each channel slope. The mulefat plants and cattail plugs were planted along the toes of the channel slopes. These plants were installed at slightly higher elevations in an effort to minimize their exposure to high concentrations of saltwater. Table 5 Wetland Habitat Supplemental Plant Palette Planting Location Common Name Species Approximate Spacing (feet on- center) Size/Quantity 2- to 3-foot border on each side of channel mulefat Baccharis salicifolia 5 feet 1 gallon/10 broad-leave cattail Typha latifolia 3 feet Plugs/10 Toe of channel slope (bottom 3 to 4 feet) desert saltgrass Distichlis spicata 0.5–1 Rose pots/3 flats alkali heath Frankenia salina 0.5–1 Rose pots/3 flats Total 1 gallon/10 Plugs/10 Rose pots/6 flats Also during the December 2011 supplemental seeding event, the maintenance crew seeded the upland areas of the site with the seed mix provided in Table 6. During the semimonthly maintenance visits, the maintenance crew harvested native saltmarsh species from the immediate surroundings and planted them along the lower slopes of the site. This was done in an effort to increase native cover within the CVFM area and the lower slopes. Supplemental plantings included alkali heath (Frankenia salina), desert saltgrass (Distichilus spicata), and pickleweed (Salicornia virginica) harvested from the adjacent saltmarsh habitat. Approximately 20 to 40 salt marsh plants were transplanted each time during the majority of the maintenance visits. Page 10 Encinas Creek Bridge Replacement Project Year 2 Revegetation Monitoring Report Table 6 Upland Habitat Modified Seed Mix Common Name Species Minimum Percent Purity/Germination Pounds of Pure Live Seed per Acre deerweed Acmispon glaber 90/60 1 western ragweed Ambrosia psilostachya 85/25 1 California sun cup Camissonia bisorta 95/75 0.5 Croton californicus California croton 90/20 1 fascicled tarweed Deinandra fasciculata 10/25 0.5 California buckwheat Eriogonum fasciculatum ssp. fasciculatum 10/65 2 golden yarrow Eriophyllum confertiflorum 30/60 0.5 sawtoothed goldenbush Hazardia squarrosa 10/20 1 salt heliotrope Heliotropium curassavicum 8/48 0.5 arroyo lupine Lupinus succulentus 98/85 1 dot-seed plantain Plantago erecta 95/75 3.5 bicolor everlasting Pseudognaphalium biolettii 10/25 0.1 chia Salvia columbariae 90/60 1 Total 13.6 2.3 Monthly Qualitative Monitoring Project restoration ecologist Julia Groebner performed qualitative site monitoring visits on a monthly basis during Year 2. During these visits, Ms. Groebner walked the site to assess the general health of the container stock, presence of exotic species, approximate cover of native and exotic species, and erosion problems. Any issues requiring immediate attention (e.g., exotic species requiring removal, trash, erosion, and any other significant observations) were identified and communicated to the AECOM maintenance crew. When possible, the qualitative site inspections were combined with the maintenance visits to facilitate the immediate resolution of maintenance issues. In addition, Ms. Groebner took photos at the site’s permanent photostations on a quarterly basis. The photostations were established prior to installation in an effort to capture the extent of the restoration site with respect to the vegetation community both in and adjacent to the site. There are eight permanent photo locations on-site (Figure 3). During Year 2, Ms. Groebner visited the site on the following dates: • August 25, 2011 • September 27, 2011 • October 28, 2011 • December 1 and 21, 2011 Encinas Creek Bridge Replacement Project Page 11 Year 2 Revegetation Monitoring Report • January 31, 2012 • March 1 and 28, 2012 • April 30, 2012 • May 30, 2012 Ms. Groebner summarized the results of her site visits in monthly Mitigation Monitoring Reports, which were submitted to Sherri Howard at the City of Carlsbad. 3.0 YEAR 2 ANNUAL MONITORING RESULTS AND COMPARISON TO SUCCESS STANDARDS Year 2 annual monitoring was completed by Ms. Groebner and AECOM restoration ecologist Aaron Andrews on May 30, 2012. Weather conditions were overcast, with a westerly wind of 5 to 10 miles per hour and temperatures of approximately 65 degrees Fahrenheit (°F). During the annual monitoring visit, Ms. Groebner and Mr. Andrews made observations regarding the health of native species on-site, percent cover of native and nonnative species, container planting survivorship and seed germination, and potential erosion issues. Photos were taken at the permanent photostations established at the beginning of the restoration program (Attachment 1). A list was compiled of all plant species on-site (Table 7). A total of 25 species were observed on the restoration site, 24 of which are native. The following sections describe the results of the annual monitoring visit and compare these results to the previously described performance criteria. 3.1 Coastal and Valley Freshwater Marsh As discussed in Section 2.2, the high concentrations of saltwater in the channel were a limiting factor in the development of the CVFM habitat, as the emergent wetland species are not adapted to high levels of salinity. These species were expected to be marginally successful at best, and throughout the revegetation program, the CVFM habitat was supplemented with planting of native saltmarsh species to increase native cover and species diversity in the wetland habitat. Therefore, the sections below discuss the success of the wetland habitat as a whole, which is composed of both freshwater marsh and saltmarsh species. Page 12 Encinas Creek Bridge Replacement Project Year 2 Revegetation Monitoring Report Table 7 Encinas Creek Year 2 Species List Scientific Name Common Name Acmispon glaber deerweed Ambrosia psilostachya western ragweed Baccharis salicifolia mulefat Bolboschoenus maritimus prairie bulrush Camissonia bisorta California sun cup Chamaesyce maculata* spotted spurge Croton californicus California croton Deinandra fasciculata fascicled tarweed Distichilus spicata saltgrass Eriogonum fasciculatum ssp. fasciculatum California buckwheat Eriophyllum confertiflorum golden yarrow Frankenia salina alkali heath Hazardia squarrosa sawtoothed goldenbush Heliotropium curassavicum salt heliotrope Heterotheca grandiflora telegraph weed Isocoma menziesii var. menziesii coastal goldenbush Lupinus succulentus arroyo lupine Plantago erecta dotseed plantain Pluchea odorata marsh fleabane Pseudognaphalium biolettii bicolor everlasting Rorippa nasturtium-aquaticum watercress Salicornia virginica pickleweed Salvia columbariae chia Schoenoplectus californicus California bulrush Schoenoplectus robustus sturdy bulrush *Indicates a nonnative plant species (introduced). 3.1.1 Container Plant Survival Container planting at the Encinas Creek Bridge revegetation site consisted of the plants specified in the Revegetation Specifications (AECOM 2009) for the CVFM habitat (Table 8). In addition, supplemental planting of emergent marsh species occurred periodically during Year 1 and in December of Year 2 to bring the wetland plant survivability to 100% of the original plant quantities recommended in the Revegetation Specifications. Encinas Creek Bridge Replacement Project Page 13 Year 2 Revegetation Monitoring Report Table 8 Coastal and Valley Freshwater Marsh Container Plant Palette Common Name (Botanical Name) Quantity for 0.004-Acre Area California bulrush (Schoenoplectus californicus) 5 Sturdy bulrush (Schoenoplectus robustus) 5 Broad-leave cattail (Typha latifolia) 4 Total 14 At the time of the Year 2 site visit, the CVFM container plants were achieving 100% survival based on the initial planting quantities. Although the bulrush planted in the channel survived and expanded during the revegetation program, the broad-leave cattail was not as well suited to the higher salt concentrations. However, the expansion of the bulrush and supplemental planting with saltmarsh species (Section 2.2), which were better suited to the higher salinity levels in the channel, more than compensated for the failure of the broad-leave cattail. 3.1.2 Native Seed Germination and Cover The absolute native vegetative cover observed within the channel was 20%. This was composed mainly of bulrush, desert saltgrass, alkali heath, pickleweed, and prairie bulrush (Bolboschoenus maritimus). This portion of the site is composed of large cobble and coarse sand, and has a heavy saltwater influence from wave action and infiltration from the adjacent Pacific Ocean. In addition, some erosion has occurred along the toe of the slope lining the creek channel due to natural tidal influence. Approximately 25% of the channel is expected to sustain vegetation over the long-term. The remaining 75% of the channel will likely always be unvegetated due to the factors listed above. The portion of the channel that is expected to support long-term vegetated habitat supports approximately 80% native cover. The absolute native cover in the channel is lower than the success standards outlined in the Revegetation Specifications for Year 2 (Table 2), but this is not unusual considering the prevalence of cobble, heavy saltwater influence, and natural tidal erosion within this habitat on- site. However, of the 25% of the channel that is expected to sustain vegetation, the relative native cover is 80%. The success standard for this habitat is 90% native cover. Upon further evaluation of the limitations of the site (see discussion above), the 90% cover success standard was aggressive, and the current native cover of 80% is more realistic. The density of the existing CVFM within the site is very similar to the habitat prior to construction, which was low Page 14 Encinas Creek Bridge Replacement Project Year 2 Revegetation Monitoring Report (Attachment 1, Photo 21). In addition, the existing habitat supports a higher diversity of native species and lower nonnative cover than the impacted habitat. Also, the new bridge footprint is smaller than the original bridge footprint, thereby providing additional acreage for wetland habitat (Figure 3). 3.1.3 Weed Control Nonnative cover within the wetland habitat was less than 1% during the Year 2 monitoring visit, with 0% cover of problematic invasive exotics. The only nonnative species observed in the upland habitat during the Year 2 monitoring visit was spotted spurge (Chamaesyce maculata), a non-problematic weed. The maintenance crew removed all nonnative species observed on-site during their regular maintenance visits. Therefore, the wetland is meeting the nonnative cover success standard for Year 2. 3.1.4 Trash and Debris Any trash or debris within the wetland habitat was removed by the maintenance crew during their regular monitoring visits. There was no trash or debris observed within the CVFM habitat during the Year 2 monitoring visit. Therefore, the wetland is meeting the trash and debris success standard for Year 2. 3.1.5 Erosion Control No gully formation or associated sediment transport were observed within the wetland habitat, other than the erosion caused by natural tidal influence. The wetland is, therefore, meeting this success standard for Year 2. 3.2 Disturbed Upland Habitat 3.2.1 Native Seed Germination and Cover The only formal container plant success standard pertains to the CVFM habitat, as planting in the upland habitat was considered supplemental. However, during the initial PEP, it was determined that the disturbed upland habitat within the project area would require some container plants in order to meet native cover requirements. Therefore, 70 one-gallon container plants were installed in the upland area in Year 1 and 100 one-gallon container plants were installed in the upland area in Year 2 to supplement the native seed application and contribute to native cover. Encinas Creek Bridge Replacement Project Page 15 Year 2 Revegetation Monitoring Report The approximate native vegetative cover observed within the upland habitat was 50%, with some areas achieving greater than 80% cover. Coverage by seeded species increased measurably during Year 2 of the revegetation program. Native cover is expected to continue to increase following the conclusion of the program, as the native plants mature and set seed, contributing to the native seedbank on-site. Although native cover of the upland habitat is slightly lower than the success standard, the upland areas are in much better condition than they were prior to bridge construction impacts, when they were dominated by nonnative species (predominantly hottentot fig). The revegetated upland habitat supports a high diversity of native species and very low nonnative cover. Furthermore, the native cover in this area is expected to continue to increase in the future. 3.2.2 Weed Control Nonnative species occur at very low densities within the upland habitat, covering less than 1% of the upland area. The nonnative species that were observed within the upland habitat were non- problematic weeds, and no problematic invasive exotics were present within the upland habitat. Therefore, the upland habitat is meeting the Year 2 nonnative cover success standard. 3.2.3 Trash and Debris Any trash or debris within the upland habitat was removed by the maintenance crew during their regular monitoring visits. There was no trash or debris observed within the upland habitat during the Year 2 monitoring visit. Therefore, the upland habitat is meeting the trash and debris success standard for Year 2. 3.2.4 Erosion Control No gully formation or associated sediment transport are occurring in the upland habitat. In December 2011, the maintenance crew installed sand bags along the top of the bridge to prevent erosion. These bags functioned as needed during the 2011/2012 rainy season. In addition, the planting and germination of native species on the slopes is increasing vegetative cover and will further stabilize the soil on these slopes. The upland habitat is meeting the erosion-control success standard for Year 2. No erosion potential remains in the upland habitat. However, as a precautionary measure, the sand bags will remain in place temporarily and will be removed by the City after the 2012/2013 rainy season. Page 16 Encinas Creek Bridge Replacement Project Year 2 Revegetation Monitoring Report Although there are no specific success standards for the revegetated vehicle pull-out areas, qualitative monitoring of the southern pull-out area occurred during Year 2. The native vegetative cover at the pull-out site south of the bridge was approximately 40% at the conclusion of Year 2, with nonnative vegetative cover less than 1% (Attachment 1, Photo 18). This area is in much better condition than it was prior to bridge replacement, when it was dominated by nonnative species, and should be considered successful. 4.0 CONCLUSION Based on the data presented in this annual monitoring report, the restoration site is meeting the Year 2 success standards. Container plant survival is meeting the 100% survival success standard in the wetland area. Nonnative vegetative cover over the entire site is meeting the Year 2 success standards of 0% cover in the wetland habitat and 0% cover of problematic invasive exotics in the upland habitat. Both the upland and wetland habitats are free of trash and debris and do not exhibit any erosion problems. Although native vegetative cover for the wetland and upland habitats is below success standards for Year 2, both of these habitats are of substantially higher quality (higher species richness and lower nonnative cover) than these areas were prior to construction. In addition, the wetland cover post-construction is higher than the wetland cover prior to construction. Native cover in both habitats is expected to continue to increase as the native species on-site mature and set seed. The revegetation area is in much better condition than it was prior to construction, and the revegetation program should be considered successful. The 80% native cover within the wetland habitat should be considered successful. The wetland area is stable, and the native cover will expand over time. No further maintenance or monitoring of the wetland area is necessary. The upland habitat is also successful, with native plants providing cover in areas that were once dominated by hottentot fig. As a precautionary measure, it is recommended that the sand bags placed in this habitat remain on-site through the 2012/2013 rainy season. They may then be removed by the City. ATTACHMENT 1 PHOTO MONITORING Attachment 1, Page 1 of 11 Encinas Creek Bridge Replacement Project Year 2 Annual Monitoring Site Visit Installation and Year 2 Photos – Permanent Stations Photograph: 1 Photo Date: 6/28/2010 Location: Permanent Station 1 Direction: West Comment: None Photograph: 2 Photo Date: 5/30/2012 Location: Permanent Station 1 Direction: West Comment: None Attachment 1, Page 2 of 11 Photograph: 3 Photo Date: 6/28/2010 Location: Permanent Station 2 Direction: Southwest Comment: None Photograph: 4 Photo Date: 5/30/2012 Location: Permanent Station 2 Direction: Southwest Comment: None Attachment 1, Page 3 of 11 Photograph: 5 Photo Date: 6/28/2010 Location: Permanent Station 3 Direction: Southwest Comment: No weeds on- site at this time. Photograph: 6 Photo Date: 5/30/2012 Location: Permanent Station 3 Direction: Southwest Comment: Note the substantial increase in native cover within the revegetation area. Attachment 1, Page 4 of 11 Photograph: 7 Photo Date: 6/28/2010 Location: Permanent Station 4 Direction: East Comment: Water in channel at this time is primarily saltwater from wave splash. Many of the container plants appear to be dying. Photograph: 8 Photo Date: 5/30/2012 Location: Permanent Station 5 Direction: East Comment: Note the growth of bulrush along the edge of the channel. This species tolerated the high salinity of the channel well. Attachment 1, Page 5 of 11 Photograph: 9 Photo Date: 6/28/2010 Location: Permanent Station 5 Direction: East Comment: Water in channel at this time is primarily saltwater from wave splash. Many of the container plants appear to be dying. Photograph: 10 Photo Date: 5/30/2012 Location: Permanent Station 4 Direction: East Comment: Note the native saltmarsh species planted along the base of the slope to stabilize the soil and increase vegetative cover. Attachment 1, Page 6 of 11 Photograph: 11 Photo Date: 6/28/2010 Location: Permanent Station 6 Direction: South Comment: No weeds on- site at this time. No native plants have emerged yet. Photograph: 12 Photo Date: 5/30/2012 Location: Permanent Station 6 Direction: South Comment: Note the increase in native cover on the northern side of the bridge. Attachment 1, Page 7 of 11 Photograph: 13 Photo Date: 6/28/2010 Location: Permanent Station 7 Direction: North Comment: No weeds on- site at this time. No native plants have emerged yet. Photograph: 14 Photo Date: 5/30/2012 Location: Permanent Station 7 Direction: North Comment: None Attachment 1, Page 8 of 11 Photograph: 15 Photo Date: 6/28/2010 Location: Permanent Station 8 Direction: North Comment: Additional upland impact area seeded. No weeds at this time. Photograph: 16 Photo Date: 5/30/2012 Location: Permanent Station 8 Direction: North Comment: Although this area is not subject to success standards, the native habitat is developing nicely. Attachment 1, Page 9 of 11 Supplemental Photos Photograph: 17 Photo Date: 6/30/2011 Location: Supplemental Photo Direction: NA Comment: Wetland plants are growing well and spreading independently from original plantings. Photograph: 18 Photo Date: 5/30/2012 Location: Supplemental Photo Direction: NA Comment: The original patch of bulrush is thriving and has expanded to increase the wetland vegetation on-site. Attachment 1, Page 10 of 11 Photograph: 19 Photo Date: 6/30/2011 Location: Supplemental Photo Direction: NA Comment: Pliable edging installed on east side of site (upland) to keep iceplant from spreading into the site. Photograph: 20 Photo Date: 6/30/2011 Location: Supplemental Photo Direction: NA Comment: The northern side of the bridge continues to exhibit the densest native cover, with some areas of more than 80% native cover. Attachment 1, Page 11 of 11 Photograph: 21 Photo Date: 1/8/2009 Location: Supplemental Photo – wetland prior to construction Direction: west Comment: Note that emergent wetland within the project footprint was minimal on the north side (yellow circle) prior to bridge replacement and consisted of the highly invasive giant reed on the south side (left side of photo). In addition, the upland areas of the site were dominated by the invasive hottentot fig.