HomeMy WebLinkAboutCT 00-19; Carlsbad Promenade; Tentative Map (CT) (3)Biological Resources Assessment
for
Carlsbad Promenade
APN #214-550-01
APN #215-070-13
APN #215-070-26
Carlsbad, Califomia
October 31, 2001
prepared for:
Koll Real Estate Corporation
4275 Executive Square
Suite #240
San Diego, CA 92037
prepared by:
Planning Systems
1530 Faraday Avenue
Suite 100
Carlsbad, CA 92008
Biological Resources Assessment
APN #214-550-01, APN #215-070-13, APN #215-070-26
Carlsbad, California
October 30, 2001
1.0 Summary of Findings
This report provides an assessment of the biological resources observed on APN
#215-070-13, APN # 215-070-26, and APN #214-550-01. Together these three
parcels comprise a 30.89 acre development site, located in Carlsbad, Califomia. The
total study area also includes, 0.29 acre of off-site property proposed for development
impacts, for a combined study area totaling 31.18 acres. This report identifies project
related impacts and proposes mitigation measures for the proposed project, a
detached single family residential subdivision.
Sensitive vegetation resources observed on the property include Diegan coastal sage
scrub (CSS), Southern Maritime Chaparral (SMC), and Southern Willow Scrub
(SWS). Three pair of coastal California gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica californica)
occur on-site (see Appendix B).
IMPACTS to existing biological resources due to proposed development are
summarized as follows:
• 1.09 acres of Annual grassland will be impacted by development,
• 8.13 acres of Fallow Agriculture will be impacted by development,
• 0.33 acre of Ruderal vegetation will be impacted by development.
• 5.07 acres of Developed/Disturbed/Bare Dirt will be impacted by development.
• Zero acres of CSS, SMC, and SWS will be impacted by development.
The current development plan has been revised to avoid all impacts to coastal sage
scrub. Given that no impacts are proposed to sensitive biological resources, no
mitigation is offered to reduce project impacts to a level of insignificance.
However, because a south-facing slope on the south side of Poinsettia Lane requires
final landscaping, and occurs adjacent to native habitat, revegetaton of coastal sage
scrub is proposed on this 0.77 acre slope. This CSS revegetation is proposed to be
established without a monitoring and reporting obligation.
Biological Resources Assessment - Carlsbad Promenade ' page 1
Lake
Henshaw
USA
MEXICO
Figure 1
Regional Map
Carlsbad Promenade
Carlsbad, California
Biological Resources Assessment - Carlsbad Promenade page:
Base: USGS 7.5 minute Encinitas, CA quadrangle
NORTH LEGEND
1000 2000 4000
SCALE (In feet) I '^%fKi»Si LOCATION OF SITE
PLANNING
SYSTEMS Figure 2.
Vicinity Map
Carlsbad, California
Biological Resources Assessment - Carlsbad Promenade page 3
2.0 Introduction
This report provides an assessment of biological resources existing on the APN #215-
070-13 , APN # 215-070-26, and APN #214-550-01. Together these parcels, and a
minor off-site proposed impact comprise a gross 31.18 acre study area (site), located
in Carlsbad, California. The site was surveyed to record species present, to classify
plant communities, to assess impacts associated with proposed .development and to
recommend measures to offset biological impacts associated with the proposed
project,
2.1 Previous Biological Analysis
In March, 1995 a "Biological Field Survey Update" was prepared by Anita M. Hayworth
for the Ocean Bluff property, as a supplement to a tentative map application submitted
to the City. This report provides biological findings for not only the subject parcel, but
also for the Poinsettia Lane expansion which crossed the project site. Vegetation
mapping of LFMP Zone 20 by Mooney and Associates was included in the report. This
mapping provides vegetation community designations for the subject parcel.
2.2 Existing Conditions
The southwestern corner of the study area occurs at the intersection of Aviara Parkway
and Poinsettia Lane. Aviara Parkway runs generally north-south along the western
property line, slicing off the southwestern corner of the site. This remaining sliver is
mostly comprised of manufactured slopes installed during Aviara Parkway
development. Poinsettia Lane slices of the southeastern corner of the site. That
portion of the site lying south of Poinsettia Lane is what remains of a canyon that at
one time drained into Batiquitos lagoon. This canyon was closed off to the south from
Batiquitos lagoon by the development of Aviara, and to the north by Poinsettia Lane
expansion. The canyon bottom now acts a storm drainage collector, supporting
wetland vegetation. The undisturbed canyon sides support natural upland vegetation.
North of the Poinsettia lane expansion, a mesa top located in the central part of the site
has been farmed over the years, but has laid fallow for at least two years.
The northern portion of the site supports natural vegetation on a north-facing slope. A
SDG&E transmission easement cuts across eastern portions of the site. A canyon
condition develops in this easement just north of the fallow agricultural area, and
begins supporting wetland vegetation as it trends north thought the easement. The
slopes of this canyon are largely occupied by natural upland vegetation. In the
northeastern corner of the parcel, a minor drainage supporting wetland vegetation
connects into this north-south canyon from the east. The majority of the northern
portion of this parcel is occupies by natural vegetation. The norlh-western-most
portion of the site exists in a disturbed state.
Soils
The soil type on the mesa portion of the property is Chesterton fine sandy loam. 2 to 5
percent slopes (Clb). This is the soil that has been intensively farmed in the past, and
the soil most of the proposed development will occur on. Virtually no natural
vegetation remains on this soil type.
Biological Resources Assessment - Carlsbad Promenade page 4
Soils supporting most of the native vegetation on-site are classified as Loamy alluvial
land-Huerhuero complex. 9 to 50 percent slopes, severelv eroded CLvFS).
Upland sloping areas support coastal sage scrub and southern maritime chaparral.
Ravine bottoms support southern willow scrub and/or wetland indicator species. The
sensitive plant species observed occur on this soil type. Very snpall clay lenses were
observed, supporting perennial grassland inclusions within coastal sage scrub.
Perennial grasslands observed on-site occur in areas not proposed for development.
The remaining soil type of the site is Terrace Escarpments (TeF). This soil occurs in
locations already occupied by existing roadways. No naturally occurring vegetation
remains on this soil type, and the existing topography has been changed so
dramatically that this soil type would not be expected.
3.0 Methods and Survey Limitations
Botanical field work was conducted in August and September, 2000, using a 200
scale aerial photograph, with a topographic overlay to assist in accurately recording
findings. The entire site was traversed on foot, following all trails and ridges where
accessible. All plant species were recorded with notation as to dominance and plant
community. Sensitive plant habitats such as clay beds, indicator species, sandstone,
mesic and xeric slope aspects were covered. Plant names follow the most recent
botanical literature: (Hickman, 1993); plant identification was determined in the field
and lab using: (Munz, 1974), (Beauchamp, 1986), (Abrams, 1960), (Mason, 1957);
plant communities are classified according to (Holland, 1986) ariid (Gordon and White,
1994); status of sensitive plants were evaluated according to: (Skinner and Pavlik,
1994) and geological and soil surveys, (Weber, 1958, and (Bowan, 1973). Botanical
resources were surveyed by Greg Evans.
An initial wildlife sun/ey of the subject property was conducted on September 25 and
26, 2000. The entire property was surveyed in the early morning at dusk over a two
day period.
A protocol coastal California gnatcatcher {Polioptila californica californica), survey was
accomplished by Lincer and Associates, dated May 2, 2001.
4.0 Biological Survey Results
4.1 Botanical Resources
Site flora consists primarily of plant species typical of Diegan coastal sage scrub and
southern maritime chaparral. This includes mostly common perennial shrub species,
and two uncommon sensitive plants associated with the coastal sandstone soils.
Significant wetland conditions also occur with southern willow scrub associated with
three drainages occurring on-site.
4.1.1 Diegan Coastal Sage Scrub (CSS) (7.58 acres)
This CSS is dominated by Coast Sagebrush (Artemesia californica). and Coyote
brush (Baccharis pilularis). Other plants include: Black sage (Salvia mellifera). Laurel
sumac (Malosma laurina). Mexican elderberry (Sambucus mexicana). and a large
Biological Resources Assessment - Carlsbad Promenade page 5
number of other species. Ashy spike-moss (Selaginella cinerascens) occurs in
several locations.
Diegan coastal sage scrub is the plant community that supports the federally
threatened California gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica californica). This plant
community typically requires mitigation if impacted by development in recognition of it
habitat value to the California gnatcatcher.
4.1.2 Annual Grassland (AG) (1.47 acres)
Weedy grasses occur in these disturbed areas of the site. Annual weed grasses such
as Ripgut brome (Bromus diandrus) and Red brome (Bromus madritensis ssp. rubens)
dominate, along with other brome grass species and exotic weeds. Fascicled
tarweed, Hemizonia fasciculata also occurs.
4.1.3 Fallow Agricultural (FA) (8.13 acres)
This vegetation on-site is dominated by weed species common to ruderal habitats.
Also occurring are coyote brush(Baccharis pilularis). and Statice, (Limonium perezii).
4.1.4 Ruderal (RU) (0.96 acres)
This vegetation is composed almost exclusively of introduced weed species which
occur on highly disturbed portions of the site. The dominant plants include: Black
mustard (Brassica nigra), and Russian "thistle" Salsola tragus, and a number of
introduced exotics. Such areas are unlikely to support sensitive plant species due to
the dominance of aggressive weedy species.
4.1.5 Southern Maritime Chaparral (SMC) (1.54 acres)
Chamise is the dominant plant of this community on-site. This plant community is
found on sandstone soils in coastal locations with substantial marine layer influence.
The sensitive plant species Coast white lilac (Ceanothus verrocosus). occurs in
abundance. Other plant associates occurring on-site, also indicators of SMC, include:
Mission manzanita (Xylococcus bicolor). and Toyon (Heteromeles arbutifolia).
4.1.6 Southern Willow Scrub (SWS) (0.67 acre)
SWS occurs mostly as narrow bands of Arroyo willows (Salix lasiolepis). and some
Mulefat (Baccharis salicifolia). along three drainages on the site< All three drainages
appear to receive runoff from nearby development. No blue line streams occur in or
near the study area.
4.1.7 Wetland Ruderal (WR) (0.60 acre)
WR occupies an area that was at one time canyon bottom, but has been disturbed by
development of both the Aviara site and the Poinsettia Lane expansion. Wetland
indicator species such as sedge (Cyperus sp.), and Western ragweed (Ambrosia
philostachys) occur here. This area may emerge as southern Willow Scrub given time.
4.1.8 Developed / Disturbed / Bare Dirt (DEV) (10.23 acrds)
Areas are called "developed / disturbed/ bare dirf', if they support paved or unpaved
road, are manufactured slopes associated to paved roads supporting only sparse
ruderal vegetation, or are bare as a result of other human activity.
Biological Resources Assessment - Carlsbad Promenade page 6
4.2 Sensitive Botanical Resources
Two sensitive plant species were identified occupy the site during field
reconnaissance.
4.2.1 Coast White Lilac (Ceanothus verrucosus)
This shrub occurs frequently as one of the dominant plants within Southern Maritime
Chaparral, and is one of the indicators of this plants community. It is favored by
occasional fire, and tends to decline in older stands. Coast white lilac has the
following status:
Federal - (C2) Species of Special concern
State - No status
CNPS - List 2
4.2.2 Ashy spike moss (Selaginella cinerascens)
This plant was seen at three sites during the survey though it was not abundant. It
more commonly occurs on old weathered soils such as on mesa tops. Ashy spike
moss has the following status:
Federal - No status
State - No status
CNPS - List 4
4.3 Sensitive Plants Potentially Present, But Not Detected on This or
Previous Surveys
Habitats present on-site that could possibly support sensitive taxa include: the
Southern Maritime Chaparral plant community, and clay lens inclusions associated
within sage scrub. Though there are vernal pools extant nearby (Del Mar, Encinitas,
Carlsbad), on mesa tops, neither the soils or topography that would support them were
present on the site. Therefore none of those sensitive plants are included on this list.
4.3.1 Del Mar Manzanita (Arctostaphylis glandulosa var. crassifolia)
The federally endangered species was not detected in the SMC on-site or adjacent
likely habitat. There is a low likelihood of other undetected occurrences of Del Mar
Manzanita on the property.
4.3.2 Orcutt's Spineflower (Choriznathe orcuttiana)
The nearest known population of this federal and state endangered species is to the
south in Encinitas and Del Mar. No other Chorizanthe or related look-alike plant on-
site were observed.
4.3.3 Short-leaved Dudleya fPudieva blochmaniae spp. brevifolia)
The nearest known population of this federal and state endangered species is in Del
Mar. It occurs on the edge of sandstone cliffs, specifically on Chesterton and similar
formations. The top of the sandstone terrace is most likely for this plant and such
habitat is not on-site.
Biological Resources Assessment - Carlsbad Promenade page 7
4.4 Zoological Resources
Five of the seven habitat types occurring on the site can be considered natural
communities capable of supporting a variety of wildlife. The agricultural and
developed areas represent disturbed habitat heavily altered by human activity which
degrade its value as wildlife habitat.
4.4.1 Amphibians and Reptiles
Few amphibians or reptiles were observed on-site due to the limited sun/ey time, the
absence of rock outcrops on-site and the covert nature of these animals. The only
reptile species observed on-site was the western fence lizard {Sceloporus
occidentalis) observed on the margins of the coastal sage scrub habitat. Bullfrog
{Rana catesbeiana) vocalizations were also heard coming from some of the dense
riparian habitat located in the central north-south drainage on-site.
Common species that are expected in these habitat types include:
Pacific tree frog Hyla regilla
Alligator lizard Gerrhonotus multicarinatus
Southern pacific rattlesnake Crotalis viridis helleri
Two-striped garter snake Thamnophis hammondi
Orange-throated whiptail Cnemidophorus hvpervthrus b^ldinai
Coastal whiptail Cnemidophorus tigris multiscutatus
San Diego coast horned-lizard Phrynosoma coronatum blainvillei
4.4.2 Birds
A protocol coastal California gnatcatcher {Polioptila californica californica), survey was
accomplished by Lincer and Associates, dated May 2, 2001. Three pair coastal
California gnatcatcher was obsen/ed on the subject property. See Appendix A for the
complete letter report.
During the course of this survey 19 species of birds were observed onsite. These
birds, identified by common name are listed below.
American Crow American robin
Anna's hummingbird Bewick's wren
Black phoebe California gnatcatcher(threatened species)
California quail California towhee
Chipping sparrow Horned lark
House finch Morning dove
Common Raven Red-tailed hawk
Song Sparrow Western meadowlark
Western kingbird Western scrub jay
The California gnatcatchers were heard calling from the coastal sage scrub habitat
that lines the east-facing and west-facing slopes of the drainage occurring in the
northern part of the site.
Biological Resources Assessment - Carlsbad Promenade page
Although not observed on-site, it is possible that the riparian habitat supports least
Bell's vireos, a state and federal endangered species. The proper habitat exists on-
site, however the fragmented nature of the habitat makes the presence of vireos
unlikely.
4.4.3 Mammals
Eight mammal species were observed or detected by presence of scat or burrow on-
site. These species are listed below.
Desert cotton-tail Sylvilagus auduboni
Coyote Canis latrans
Bobcat Fells rufus
Field mouse Microtus species
Wood rat Neotoma species
Raccoon Procvon lotor
Ground squirrel Spermophilus beechevi
Botta's pocket gopher Thomoys bottae
None of these species are listed as threatened or endangered by the state or federal
resource agencies.
Three federai Category 2 species may be present on the property, although focused
surveys would be required to confirm the absence of these species.
California pocket mouse Peroanathus californicus (not Category 2)
San Diego pocket mouse Perognathus fallax falla^
San Diego desert woodrat Neotoma lepida intermedia
San Diego black-tailed jackrabbit Lepus californicus bennetti
5.0 Project Impacts
The proposed project is sited at the corner of two arterial roadways. Project access is
taken from both Aviara Parkway and Poinsettia Lane, in locations that meet City
intersection spacing standards. The proposed development is sited adjacent to the
existing roadways where previously disturbed habitats predominate. The
development as proposed is sited in context with the natural topography, preserving
the ecological relationships that currently exist local to the site. Sensitive natural
resources are entirely avoided. All wetland resources and sensitive plant species are
preserved.
5.1 Direct Impacts
Development is proposed on portions of the study area that are presently occupied by
fallow agriculture, annual grassland, ruderal, and developed / bare dirt. None of these
habitats are considered a "sensitive" biological resource. Table 1- "Impacts Summary"
provides area quantities for the entire 31,18 acre study area (see Biological Impacts
Map),
Biological Resources Assessment - Carlsbad Promenade page 9
5.2 Indirect Impacts
Urban security lighting and daytime noise are likely indirect impacts due to the
proposed project. Pet predator impacts may occur, as typically associated with
residential development. Temporary indirect impacts associated with new
construction are expected, particularly during grading and building construction
activities.
The indirect impacts that may occur due to the proposed project presently occur in
large measure due to surrounding development. The additional indirect impacts
caused by the proposed project are insignificant.
Table #1
SUMMARY OF IMPACTS
community
classification
existing
acres
acreaae
Impacted
Annual Grassland 1,47 1.09
Coastal Sage Scrub 7.58 0
Fallow Agriculture 8,13 8.13
Ruderal 0,96 0.33
Southern Maritime Chaparral 1,54 0
Southern Willow Scrub 0.67 0
Wetland Ruderal 0,60 0
Developed /Bare Dirt 3,51 2.63
Existing Road / Infrastructure 6.72 2.44
Totals 31.18 14.62
6.0 Mitigation Measures
Habitats impacted by the proposed development include Annual Grassland, Ruderal,
Fallow Agriculture, and Developed/ Disturbed/Bare Dirt. None of these habitats are
considered sensitive plant communities requiring mitigation measures. Figure 4, "Post-
Development Habitat Map", graphically represents the post-developed project,
6.1 Existing Habitat to Remain Undisturbed
All habitat supporting native vegetation is preserved by the proposed development
plan. All wetland habitat, including 0,67 acre of Southern Willow Scrub, and 0.60 acre
of wetland ruderal habitat will remain undisturbed by development. All 1,49 acres of
Southern Maritime Chaparral and all coast whit lilac will remain undisturbed. All 7,58
acres of A total of 10,34 acres of existing sensitive vegetation will remain unaffected by
development.
Biological Resources Assessment - Carlsbad Promenade page 10
Table #2
Post-Development Project Summary
plant
community
classification
acreage
impacted
mitigation
required
Undeveloped
Habitat
proposed
CSS
revegetation
Easl
Developm
ent Totals
Coastal Sage Scrub 0 0 7.58 0.77 8,35
Annual Grassland 1,09 0 0.40 0.40
Fallow Agriculture 8,13 0 0
Ruderal 0.33 0 0.63 0,63
Southem Maritime
Chaparral
0 0 1.54 1,54
Southern Willow Scrub 0 0 0,67 0,67
Wetland Ruderal 0 0 0,60 0,60
Developed/Bare Dirt 5.07 0 5.21 18,43
Erosion Control
Landscaping
0.56
Totals 14.62 31,18
6.2 Habitat Revegetation
Revegetation of Coastal sage scrub is proposed on-site for an area 0,77 acres in size,
on the south-facing slope occurring on the south side of Poinsettia Lane, Locating
new habitat here assists in connecting habitat across Poinsettia Lane, an arterial
roadway. This CSS revegetation is proposed to be established without a monitoring
and reporting obligation.
Upon approval of this habitat concept for the project, a detailed revegetation, plan will
be submitted for agency review.
Biological Resources Assessment - Carlsbad Promenade page 11
Biological Resources and Project Impacts Map
sym plant community
AG ANNUAL GRASSLAND
CCS COASTAL SAGE SCRUB
FA FALLOW AGRICULTURE
RU RUDERAL
SMC SOUTHERN MARTIME CHAPARRAL
SWS SOUTHERN WILLOW SCRUB
WR WETLAND RUDERAL
DEV DEVELOPED/BARE DIRT
] XDEV EXISTING ROAD/INFRASTRUCTURE
TOTAL AREA (ACRES)
PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT AREA
[i- DEVELOPMENT LIMIT LINE
SENSITIVE SPECIES
Existing Impacts
1.47
7.58
8.13
0.96
1.49
0.67
0.60
3.54
6.74
1.09
0
8.13
0.33
0
0
0
2.63
2.44
31.18 14.62
A COASTAL CALIFORNIA GNATCATCHER (pair)
C WART-STEMMED CEANOTHUS (Ceanothus verrucossus)
S ASHY SPIKE-MOSS (Selaginella cinerascens)
BIOLOGY SURVEY NOTE:
1. HELD SURVEYED IN AUGUST & SEPTEMBER, 2000
BY PLANNING SYSTEMS FOR BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES.
2. FIELD SURVEYED IN MARCH, 2001, BY LINCER & ASSOCIATES
FOR COASTAL CALIFORNIA GNATCATCHER.
#MM0821 OCTOBER 30, 2001
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NORTH SCALE: - 1" = 150'
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Figure 3
PROJECT MITIGATION / PRESERVATION AREA SUMMARY
sym plant community
COASTAL SAGE SCRUB
CCS Coastal sage scrub
CCSr Revegetation of Coastal sage scrub
Post-Development Habitat Map
Proposed Post
Existing Mitigation CSS Undeveloped Development
Habitat Impacts Required Revegetation Habitat Total
7.58
0.77
LEGEND
sym description
DEVELOPMENT LIMIT LINE
FIRE SUPPRESSION 20NE(S)
7.58
0.77
1 AG ANNUAL GRASSLAND 1.47 1.09 0 0.40
1 FALLOW AGRICULTURE 8.13 8.13 0 0
1 RU RUDERAL 0.96 0.33 0 0.63
1 SMC SOUTHERN MARTIME CHAPARRAL 1.54 0 1.54 1.54
1 SWS SOUTHERN WILLOW SCRUB 0.67 0 0.67 0.67
1 WR WETLAND RUDERAL 0.60 0 0 0.60
1 EROSION CONTROL LANDSCAPING
(on-site plantings will Include coastal
sage scrub species)
--0.56
1 DEV DEVELOPED, ORNAMENTAL/ 10.23
BARE DIRT
5.07 5.21 18.43
TOTAL AREA (acres) 31.18 14.62 0.77 14.95 31.18
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7.0 References
Abrams, Leroy and Roxana Stinchfield Ferris, 1960, Illustrated Flora of the Pacific
States: Washington, Oregon and Claifornia, four Volumes, Stanford University Press,
Stanford, California,
Beauchamp, R, M, 1986, A Flora of San Diego Countv. California. Sweetwater Press,
National City, California,
Bowan, R. H, 1973, Soil Survey. San Dieao Area, California. Part 1, United States
Department of Agriculture. 104 pp. appendices.
Hickman, J. C, 1993, The Jepson Manual, Higher Plants of California. University of
California Press, Berl<eley, California, 1400 pp, -i-1 p, errata
Hogan, David C, and Sawyer, John 0,, and Saunders Colin, October, 1996, Southern
Maritime Chaparral, Fremontia Volume 24:4,
Holland, Robert F, 1986, "Preliminary Vegetative Plant Communities of California,"
Department of Fish and game. Natural Heritage Section,
Munz, P. 1974, A Flora of Southern California, University of California Press,
Berkeley, California, 1086 pp.
Reiser Craig H. 1994. Rare Plants of San Diego County, Aqua fir Press, Imperial
Beach, CA,
San Diego County Department of Planning and Land Use, Guidelines for the
Implementation of the California Environmental Quality Act. Aug. 1991.
Skinner, M, W, and Pavlik, B, M, 1994, California Native Plant Society's Inventory of
Rare and Endangered Vascular Plants of California, Special Publication No, 1 (Fifth
Edition), California Native Plant Society, Sacramento, California. 338 pp,
USGS Photorevised 1975, Encinitas 7,5' quadrangle.
Biological Resources Assessment - Carlsbad Promenade page 14
Appendix A
Plant Species List
Carlsbad Promenade
Appendix A
Plant Species List
Pteridaceae - Brake family
! Pentagramma triangularis
Goldback fern
Selaginellaceae - Spike-moss family
! Selaginella cinerascens
Ashy spike-moss
ANGIOSPERMAE (DICOTS)
Aizoaceae - Carpetweed, Fig-marigold or Iceplant family
Carpobrotus edulis
Fig marigold
Mesembryanthemum cn/stallinum
Crystalline iceplant
Amarantiiaceae - Amaranthus family
Amaranthus blitoides
Pigweed amaranthus
Anacardiaceae - Sumac family
Malosma laurina
Laurel sumac
Rhus integrifolia
Lemonade berry
Schinus terebinthefolius
Brazilian pepper tree
Apiaceae - Carrot family
* Foenculum vuigare
Sweet fennel
Asteraceae - Sunflower family
Ambrosia psilostachya
Western ragweed
Artemisia californica
Coast sagebrush
Baccharis pilularis
Coyote brush
Baccharis salicifolia
Mulefat
Baccharis sarothroides
Broom baccharis
1 Baccharis Twin Peaks'
Dwarf baccharis
Carduus pvcnocephalus
Italian thistle
Convza canadensis
Horseweed
Corethrogyne filaginifolia
Cudweed aster
Encelia californica
California encelia
Eriophyllum confertiflorum
Golden yarrow
Gazania rigens
Gazania
Gnaphalium bicolor
Bicolored cudweed
* Gnaphalium luteo-album
Cudweed
Gnaphalium palustre
Lowland cudweed
Hazardia squarrosa var. grindeliodes
Saw-toothed goldenbush
Isocoma menziesii
Goldenbush
Hemizonia fasciculata
Fascicled tanweed
Heterotheca grandiflora
Telegraph weed
Lessingia filaginifolia
California aster
Pluchea odorata
Salt marsh fleabane
Sonchus oleraceus
Sow thistle
Stephanomeria virgata
Twiggy wreathplant
Xanthium strumarium
Cocklebur
Brassicaceae - Mustard family
Brassica nigra
Black mustard
* Hirschfeldia incana
Perennial mustard
Lepidium densiflorum
Peppergrass
Raphanus sativus
Wild radish
Cactaceae - Cactus family
Opuntia littoralis
Coast prickly-pear
Capparaceae - Caper family
Isomeris arborea
Bladderpod
Caprifoliaceae - Honeysuckle family
Sambucus mexicana
Mexican elderberry
Caryophyilaceae - Pink family
Spergularia arvensis
Sand spurrey, Stickwort
Chenipodiaceae - Goosefoot family
Atriplex semibaccata
Australian saltbussh
Chenopodium ambrosioides
Mexican tea
Salsola tragus
Russian "thistle"
Cistaceae - Rockrose family
Helianthemum scoparium
Sunrose
Crassulaceae - Stonecrop family
* Crassula argentea
Jade plant
Crassula conn ata
Pygmy-weed
Dudleva edulis
Dudleya
Ericaceae - Heath family
Xylococcus bicolor
Mission manzanita
Euphorbiaceae - Spurge family
* Ricinus communis
Castor bean
Fabaceae - Pea family
Acacia sp.
Acacia
Lotus scoparius
Deerweed
Melilotus alba
White sweetclover
Fagaceae - Beech family
Quercus agrifolia
Coast live oak
Hydrophyllaceae - Waterleaf family
Eriodictylon tomentosum
Yerba santa
Iridaceae - Iris family
Sisyrinchium bellum
Blue-eyed grass
Lamiaceae - Mint family
Salvia apiana
White sage
Salvia mellifera
Black sage
Malvaceae - Mallow family
Malacothamnus fasciculatus
Bush mallow
Onagraceae - Evening primrose family
Camissonia sp.
Primrose
Pinaceae - Pine family
Pinus canariensis
Canary Island pine
Polygonaceae - Buckwheat family
Rumex crispus
Curly dock
Plantaginaceae - Plantain family
Plantago erecta
Dot-seed plantain
Plumbiginaceae - Plumbago family
* Limonum perezii
Statice
Polemoniaceae - Phlox family
Navarretia sp.
Skunk weed
Polygonaceae - Buckwheat family
Eriogonum fasciculatum
California buckwheat
Rhamnaceae - Buckthorn family
Ceanothus verrucocus
Coast white-lilac
Rhamnus illicifolia
Holly leaf redberry
Rosaceae - Rose family
Adenostoma fasciculatum
Chamise
Heteromeles arbutifolia
Toyon
Salicaceae - Willow family
Salix lasiolepis
Arroyo willow
Scrophulariaceae - FIgwort family
Mimulus aurantiacus
Monkeyflower
Solanaceae - Nightshade family
Nicotiana glauna
Tree tobacco
Tamaricaceae - Tamarisk family
Tamarisk sp.
Salt cedar
ANGIOSPERMAE (MONOCOTS)
Agavaceae - Agave family
Yucca schidigera
Mojave yucca
Gyperaceae - Sedge family
Cyperus sp.
Sedge
Eleocharis sp-
Spike rush
Poaceae - Grass family
Arundo donax
Giant reed
Avena fatua
Wild oat
Bromus diandrus
Ripgut grass
Bmmus hordeaceus (= B. mniiig)
Soft chess
Bromus madritensis ssp, rubens (= B. mhpng)
Red brome
Cortadiera iubata
Atacama Pampus-grass
Cvnodon danty|nn
Bermuda grass
Distichilis spicata
Salt grass
Levmus condensatus
Giant wildrye
Nasella lepida
Foothill needlegrass
Nasella pulchra
Purple needlegrass
Polypogon monspeliensis
Rabbitfoot grass
* Vulpia mvuros
Rat-tail fescue
Typhaceae - Cattail family
Tvphadominoensis
Southern cattail
STATUS
I Classified Sensitive
* Non-native (weed or cult,)
Plant Communities
Fallow Agricultural
Developed / Bare Dirt
Diegan Coastai Sage Scrub
Southern maritime chaparral
Annual Grassland
Ruderal
Southern Willow Scrub
Wetland Ruderal
Appendix B
Protocol coastal California gnatcatcher survey
Carlsbad Promenade
LINCER & ASSOCIATES
Ecological Research • Environmental Consulting • Conservation Biology • Ecotoxicology
Enviromnental Education • Eco-tourism
Mr. Greg Evans May 2,2001
Planning Systems
1530 Faraday Avenue, Ste. 100
Carisbad, California 92008
Subject: Protocol coastal California gnatcatcher {Polioptila californica californica)
survey on Carlsbad Promenade, Carlsbad, San Diego County, Califomia.
Dear Mr. Evans:
The follovidng, which is required by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) and the
Federal Endangered Species Act (as amended), reports on the results of our protocol
coastal Califomia gnatcatcher survey on the approximately 31-acre Carlsbad Promenade
project site, located in Carlsbad, California, hereafter referred to as the "site."
Following is a description of the project site, survey methods, and survey results.
PROJECT SITE
Location and Physical Properties
The property is located on the northeast comer of Aviara Parkway and Poinsettia Lane in
the City of Carlsbad, San Diego County (Figures 1 and 2). The physical properties of the
L-shaped site include a flat, unvegetated mesa and a small canyon with scrub-covered
slopes. A triangular scrub-covered area, located in the southeast comer of the site, on the
south side of Poinsettia Lane, is not planned for development and was not included in the
gnatcatcher survey. A utility right of way cuts through the northeast portion of the site.
The parcels to the northwest, south, and west of this parcel are developed with houses on
them. A small parcel, immediately to the east and northeast of the site, is undeveloped and
has no stmctures on it yet.
Site Conditions
The property is mostly comprised of fallow agricultural areas with undisturbed slopes, to
the northwest, supporting original native vegetation. In addition, a road access has been
previously cleared and graded leading to the mesa top, where agricultural activities
previously occurred.
9251 Golondrina Dr., La Mesa, California 91941 • (619) 39^7-0822 Phone/Fax • jllincer@aoLconi
Mr. Greg Evans May 2, 2001
Plaiming S5^enis Page 2
The property includes a relatively level ridge, along Aviara Parkway, that occupies the
northwest comer of the site, with a slope facing primarily northeast. The site has a
maximum elevation of approximately 305 feet above mean sea level along Aviara Parkway
and descends to approximately 220 feet in the canyon bottom at the northern boundary.
Soils
The following is partially excerpted from Planning Systems (2001). The San Diego
County soil survey map (Bowman 1967) indicates that the soil type on the mesa portion of
the property is Chesterton fine sandy loam, 2 to 5 percent slopes (Cfb). This is the soil
that has been intensively farmed in the past, and the soil that most of the proposed
development will occur on. Virtually no natural vegetation remains on this soil type.
Soils supporting most of the native vegetation on-site are classified as Loamy alluvial land-
Huerhuero complex, 9 to 50 percent slopes, severely eroded (LvF3). The remaining soil
type ofthe site is Terrace Escarpments (TeF). This soil occurs in locations already
occupied by existing roadways, where no naturally occurring vegetation remains.
Vegetation and Habitat
Site habitat consists of Diegan coastal sage scmb, southern maritime chaparral, southern
willow scmb, wetland mderal, non-native grass, fallow agricultural, mderal, and
developed (Figure 3). The following is also partially excerpted from Planning Systems
(2001).
Diegan Coastal Sage Scrub
This coastal sage scmb (CSS) is dominated by coast sagebmsh {Artemisia californica)
and coyote bmsh {Baccharis pilularis). Other plants include black sage {Salvia
mellifera), laurel sumac {Malosma laurina), Mexican elderberry {Sambucus mexicana),
and a large number of other species. Ashy spike-moss {Selaginella cinerascens) occurs in
several locations. CSS is an association of shmb species uniquely occurring along the
coast of southem Califomia with certain plants that are characteristic of San Diego
County. It is considered important, in part, because it is the primary habitat for the
federally listed 'Threatened" Califomia gnatcatcher {Polioptila californica californica), as
well as a number of other sensitive fauna. This plant commumty typically requires
mitigation if impacted by development in recognition of its habitat value to the Califomia
gnatcatcher.
Southem Maritime Chaparral
On this site, the SMC is dominated by chamise {Adenostoma fasciculatum). This plant
community is found on sandstone soils in coastal locations Avith substantial marine layer
influence. The sensitive plant species coast white lilac {Ceanothus verrucosus) occurs in
abundance. Other plant associates occurring on-site, also indicators of this habitat, include
mission manzanita {Xylococcus bicolor, and toyon (Heteromeles arbutifolia).
Mr. Greg Evans May 2, 2001
Plamiing Systems Page 3
Southern Willow Scrub
Southem willow scmb occurs mostly as narrow bands of arroyo willows {Salix
lasiolepis), and some mulefat {Baccharis .salicifolia), along three drainages on the site.
All three drainages appear to receive mnoff from nearby development.
Wetland Ruderal
Wetland mderal occupies an area that was at one time canyon bottom, but has been
disturbed by development of both the Aviara site and the Poinsettia Lane expansion.
Wetland indicator species such as sedge {Cyperus sp.) and western ragweed {Ambrosia
philostachys) occur here. This area may emerge as southem willow scmb given enough
time.
Non-native Grass
Weedy grasses occtir in these disturbed areas of the site. Annual weed grasses such as
ripgut brome {Bromus diandrus) and red brome {Bromus madritensis ssp. rubens)
dominate, along with other brome grass species and exotic weeds. Fascicled tarweed
{Hemizonia fasciculata) also occurs.
Fallow Agricultural
This vegetation on-site is dominated by weed species also common to mderal habitats.
Other species include coyote bmsh {Baccharispilularis) and statice {Limonium perezii).
Ruderal
This vegetation is composed almost exclusively of introduced weed species, which occur
on highly disturbed portions of the site. The dominant plants include black mustard
{Brassica nigra), Russian "thistle" {Salsola tragus), and a number of other exotics.
Developed
Developed areas are identified as such if they support paved or unpaved road, are
manufactured slopes associated to paved roads supporting only sparse mderal vegetation,
or are bare as a result of other human activity.
METHODS
I performed three surveys for coastal Califomia gnatcatchers, which follows the current
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (1997) guidelines, as updated. Surveys were completed in
the early morning hours while weather conditions were appropriate. Approximately 12
acres of potential gnatcatcher habitat and a buffer were surveyed in approximately 2
hours. Survey dates, times, and conditions are described in Table 1.
Mr. Greg Evans
Planning Systems
May 2, 2001
Page 4
TABLE 1
CARLSBAD PROMENADE SITE
COASTAL CALIFORNIA GNATCATCHER SURVEY INFORMATION
DATE TIME WEATHER BIOLOGIST
March 2, 2001 0845-1055 60-58°F; 1-3 mph;
75-100% overcast
Jeff Lincer
March 9, 2001 0825-1029 61-62<'F; 1-7 mph;
95-100% overcast
Jeff Lincer
March 16, 2001 0805-0955 66-69°F; 90-100%
overcast; 1-3 mph
Jeff Lincer
Binoculars of 10x50 power were used to aid in bird identifications. Recorded
vocalizations of the coastal Califomia gnatcatcher and "pishing" were used throughout the
sage scmb and adjacent habitat. Care was taken not to play tapes too often so as not to
draw gnatcatchers out of a primary use area or put unnecessary demands on their energy
reserves.
RESULTS
Gnatcatchers
Three pairs of coastal Califomia gnatcatchers were observed on the site during the surveys
described above. All pairs were documented in CSS in the northwestem portion of the
site (Figure 3).
Other Sensitive Species
During the above surveys, no other listed species were observed but a total of 37 bird
species, common to developed and/or natural areas, were noted. Five wildlife species,
considered sensitive, were documented. These included the San Diego desert woodrat
{Neotoma lepida intermedia), which is considered a Species of Special Concem by the
state, Califomia homed lark {Eremophila alpestris actia) (federal-Regionally Sensitive;
state-Species of Special Concem), and three raptors-Cooper's hawk {Accipiter cooperii)
(state-Species of Special Concem-nesting), northem harrier {Circus cyaneus) (state-
Species of Special Concem-nesting), and white-tailed kite {Elanus leucurus) (state-Special
Animal). The two woodrat nests were found in the canyon in/under trees. The homed
Mr. Greg Evans May 2, 2001
Plaiming Systems Page 5
larks were feeding on the mesa in the former agricultural use area and the raptors were
observed hunting over various parts of the site.
If you have any questions conceming the above, please contact me at (619) 668-0032 or
jllincer@aol.com. Thank you.
Smcerely,
Jeffrey L. Lincer, Ph.D.
(TE-837301-3)
End.: Figures 1-3.
c: John Martin, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Carlsbad Oflfice
Literature Cited
Bowman, R.H. 1973. Soil Survey of the San Diego Area, Califomia, Pari I. United
States Department of Agriculture.
Planning Systems. 2001. Draft Biological Resources Assessment. APN #214-550-01,
APN #215-070-13, APN #215-070-26. Carlsbad Promenade. Carlsbad, CaHfomia 28
March.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Carlsbad Field Oflfice. 1997. Coastal Califomia
gnatcatcher {Polioptila californica californica) Presence/Absence Survey Guidelines,
Febmary 28 (Revised July 28,1997).
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LINCER
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LINCER
& ASSOCIATES
CARLSBAD PROMENADE Location Map
Figure 2
I
Coastal California Gnatcatcher Map
SENSITIVE SPECIES
Focused Survey Legend
sym plant community Existing
AG ANNUAL GRASSLAND 1.47
CCS COASTAL SAGE SCRUB 7.58
FALLOW AGRICULTURE 7.92
RUDERAL 1.39
SMC SOUTHERN MARTIME CHAPARRAL 1.54
SWS SOUTHERN WILLOW SCRUB 0.67
WETLAND RUDERAL 0.60
DEV DEVELOPED/BARE DIRT 9.76
30.93
WART-STEMMED CEANOTHUS (Ceanothus verrucossus)
ASHY SPIKE-MOSS (Selaginella cinerascens)
Coastal California Gnatcatcher (pair)
BIOLOGY SURVEY NOTE:
FIELD SURVEYED IN AUGUST i SEPTEMBER, 2000
BY PLANNING SYSTEMS FOR BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES.
RELD SURVEYED IN MARCH, 2001, BY LINCER «, ASSOCIATES. FOR COASTAL CALIFORNIA GNATCATCHER.
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