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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCT 97-13; Carlsbad Oaks North; Tentative Map (CT) (7)I I I EXISTING CONDITIONS/ I BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES, WETLAND DELINEATION AND IMPACT ANALYSIS REPORT EOR I EARADAY AVENUE EXTENSION - CITY OE CARLSBAD I SAN DIEGO COUNTY, CALIFORNIA I I Prepared for: I TECI1BILT, INC. P.O. Box 80036 San Diego, California 92138 | Contact: Paul Tchang (619) 223-1663 I I Prepared by: I I 605 Third Street I Encinitas, California 92024 Contact: Harold A. Wier 1 (760) 942-5147 EMail: DUDEK300@PACBEL.NET | RECEIVED &ASSOCIATES| A California Corporation * 26 November 1997 I JAN 0 8 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Existing Conditions/Biological Resources Report Faraday Avenue Extension TABLE Or CONTENTS Section Page SUMMARY OF FINDINGS / v 1.0 INTRODUCTION 1 2.0 METHODS AND SURVEY LIMITATIONS 1 2.1 Literature Review 1 2.2 Field Reconnaissance 1 2.2.1 Resource Mapping 3 2.2.2 Flora 3 2.2.3 Fauna 3 2.2.4 Sensitive Biological Resources 4 3.0 PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS 4 3.1 Site Description 4 4.0 RESULTS OF SURVEY ". , 7 4.1 Botany - Plant Communities and Floral Diversity 7 4.1.1 Coastal Sage Scrub 9 4.1.2 Coyotebrush Scrub 10 4.1.3 Southern Mixed Chaparral 10 4.1.4 Scrub Oak Chaparral 10 4.1.5 Southern Coast live Oak Riparian Forest ;. 11 4.1.6 Cismontane Alkali Marsh 11 4.1.7 Disturbed Wetland 11 4.1.8 Non-native (Annual) Grassland/Ruderal 12 4.1.9 Ornamental Plantings/Revegetation 12 4.1.10 Disturbed Habitat 12 4.1.11 Floral Diversity 12 4.2 Zoology - Wildlife Diversity 13 4.2.1 Birds 13 4.2.2 Reptiles and Amphibians .13 4.2.3 Mammals 14 4.2.4 Invertebrates 14 4.3 Sensitive Biological Resources 14 4.3.1 Sensitive Plant Species 15 4.3.2 Sensitive Wildlife Species 17 4.3.3 Sensitive Habitats 24 4.3.4 Wildlife Corridors and Habitat Linkages 24 4.4 Regional Resource Planning Context 25 953-02 l&ASSOCIATESl A c.u/.r.u c.rxr.if.. November 26,1997 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Existing Conditions/Biological Resources Report Faraday Avenue Extension TABLE Or CONTENTS Section 5.0 ANTICIPATED PROJECT IMPACTS 25 5.1 Direct Impacts 26 5.1.1 Vegetation Communities 26 5.1.2 Sensitive Plants 28 5.1.3 Sensitive Animals 28 5.1.4 Habitat linkages/Movement Corridors 28 5.2 Indirect Impacts 30 5.2.1 Vegetation Communities 30 5.2.2 Sensitive Plants 30 5.2.3 Sensitive Wildlife 30 5.2.4 Habitat Linkages/Movement Corridors 30 6.0 ANALYSIS OF SIGNIFICANCE 31 6.1 Explanation of Findings of Significance 31 6.2 Vegetation Communities . . 31 6.2.1 Coastal Sage Scrub and Coyotebrush Scrub 31 6.2.2 Southern Mixed Chaparral 32 6.2.3 Scrub Oak Chaparral 32 6.2.4 Annual Grassland 32 6.2.5 Southern Coast Live Oak Riparian Forest 32 6.2.6 Cismontane Alkali Marsh •.-.- 33 6.2.7 Disturbed Wetland 33 6.2.8 Ornamental Plantings, Disturbed Habitat and Developed Land 33 6.3 Sensitive Plants 33 6.4 Sensitive Wildlife 33 6.5 Habitat Linkages/Wildlife Corridors 34 7.0 CONSERVATION AND MITIGATION MEASURES 34 7.1 Vegetation Communities 34 7.1.1 Coastal Sage Scrub & Coyotebrush/Revegetation 34 7.1.3 Wetland Habitats . . 35 7.2 Sensitive Plant Species 35 7.3 Sensitive Wildlife Species 36 7.4 Habitat linkages/Wildlife Corridors 36 8.0 ACKNOWLEDGMENTS 36 9.0 LITERATURE CITED 36 953-02 c.ii/.r.:< ctr».r.n.. November 26,1997 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Existing Conditions/Biological Resources Report Faraday Avenue Extension TABLE Or CONTENTS Section LIST Or APPENDICES A. Vascular Plant Species Observed on the Project Site B. Wildlife Species Observed or Detected on the Project Site C. Species Sensitivity Categories D. Wetland Delineation Field Forms LIST Of EIGURES Figure 1 . Regional Map 5 Figure 2 Vicinity Map 6 Figure 3 Biological Resources Map 8 Figure 4 Biological Resources Map with Proposed Grading 27 Figure 5 Project Location within MHCP Vegetation Communities 29 LIST OF TABLES Table 1 Schedule of Surveys 2 Table 2 Acreages by Habitat Type 9 Table 3 Impacted Acreages by Habitat Type 26 953-02 l&ASSOCIATESl —•— A c.iif.,.u c.r,.r.n.. November 26,1997 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Existing Conditions/Biological Resources Report Faraday Avenue Extension SUMMARY OF FINDINGS The Faraday Avenue Extension study area consists of 34.9 acres in the east-central portion of the City of Carlsbad, San Diego County, California, at the eastern terminus of Faraday Avenue. It lies between existing developed land in the vicinity of the City's Safety Center, Carlsbad Oaks South (developed lands off Loker Avenue) and Carlsbad Oaks North (a proposed development). Topographically, the site consists of a canyon area and steep slopes; elevation varies between about 250 and 340 feet above mean sea level. A narrow incised drainage cuts through the central part of the site. Low-lying portions of the study area have been disturbed for installation of an underground utility line and access road. Based on species composition and general physiognomy, seven plant communities or habitat types were identified onsite: coastal sage scrub (2.0 acres), coyotebrush scrub (0.2 acre), southern mixed chaparral (1.9 acres), disturbed southern mixed chaparral (2.6 acres), scrub oak chaparral (15.7 acres), southern coast live oak riparian forest (2.0 acres), and cismontane alkali marsh (0.1 acre). In addition, six altered or non-native habitat types are present: disturbed wetland (0.3 acre), non-native (annual), grassland (0.8 acre), ornamental plantings (0.1 acre), disturbed habitat (1.86 acres), and developed land (7.2 acres). No species of plant listed as endangered by the California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG) or the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) was detected onsite, however four of lesser status but considered sensitive by the California Native Plant Society were observed: California adolphia (Adolphia californica), summer-holly (Comarostaphylis diversifolia), southwestern spiny rush (Juncus acutus var. leopoldii] and Nuttall's scrub oak (Quercus nuttallii). No animal species listed as rare, threatened, or endangered by the USFWS or CDFG were observed onsite. Four species formerly recognized as Category 2 candidates for listing were observed on adjacent properties and may occur there: southern California rufous-crowned sparrow (Aimophila ruficeps canescens], northern red-diamond rattlesnake (Crotalus ruber ruber), orange-throated whiptail lizard (Cnemidophorus hyperythrus), and San Diego horned lizard (Phrynosoma coronatum blainvillei). Impacts of extending Faraday Avenue through the site include the direct losses of the following natural habitats: coastal sage scrub (0.4 acre); coyotebrush scrub (0.1 acre); southern mixed chaparral (0.2 acre); disturbed southern mixed chaparral (1.4 acres); scrub oak chaparral (2.8 acres); southern coast live oak riparian forest (1.1 acres); cismontane alkali marsh (0.1 acre); disturbed wetland (less than 0.1 acre); and non-native (annual) grassland (0.1 acre). Impacts also will occur to individuals of the following plant species: California adolphia, spiny rush, Nuttall's scrub oak and summer-holly. 953-02 November 26, 1997 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Existing Conditions/Biological Resources Report Faraday Avenue Extension 1.0 INTRODUCTION The Faraday Avenue Extension study area consists of 34.9 acres in the east-central portion of the City of Carlsbad, San Diego County, California, at the eastern terminus of Faraday Avenue. It lies between existing developed land in the vicinity of the City's Safety Center, Carlsbad Oaks South (developed lands off Loker Avenue) and Carlsbad Oaks North (a proposed development). Biological surveys of the property were conducted in January, May, and June 1996, in conjunction with the adjacent Carlsbad Oaks North proposed development (Dudek & Associates, Inc. 1997) to assess the existing conditions of the biological resources. The purposes of this report are to describe the biological character of the study area in terms of vegetation, flora, wildlife, and wildlife habitats; and analyze the biological significance of the proposed road extension in view of federal, state, and local laws and policies. 2.0 METHODS AND SURVEY LIMITATIONS Data regarding biological resources present on the project site were obtained through a review of pertinent literature and through field reconnaissance; both are described in detail below. 2.1 Literature Review Sensitive biological resources present or potentially present onsite were identified through a literature search using the following sources: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (1989,1990,1991,1993), California Department of Fish and Game (1980,1986,1987), California Native Plant Society's Inventory of Rare and Endangered Vascular Plants (Skinner and Pavlik 1994), Murphy (1990), RECON (1984), and the vegetation and sensitive species mapping performed for the North County Wildlife Forum's Multiple Habitat Conservation Program (SANDAG 1994). General information regarding wildlife species present in the region was obtained from Unitt (1984) for birds, Bond (1977) for mammals, Stebbins (1985) for reptiles and amphibians, and Emmel and Emmel (1973) for butterflies. 2.2 Field Reconnaissance This report reflects the results of biological surveys conducted by Dudek & Associates, Inc., biologists Brock A. Ortega (BAO) and John W. Brown (JWB), Ph.D., during January, May, and June 1996, according to the schedule illustrated in Table •/ and follow-up surveys and wetland delineation and mapping by Harold A. Wier and Jeff L. Thomas in 1997. All surveys were conducted in conjunction with the adj acent Carlsbad Oaks North proposed proj ect (DUDEK 1997). All surveys were conducted by foot; the entire property was surveyed and inventoried for biotic components. 953-02 l&ASSOCIATESl c.uj.r.u c.,,.,.,1,. November 26,1997 1 1 1 I 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 , 1 Existing Conditions/Biological Resources Report Faraday Avenue Extension Table 1 Schedule of Surveys Date 9 Jan 1996 10 Jan 1996 18 Jan 1996 19 Jan 1996 24 Jan 1996 25 Jan 1996 1 May 1996 3 May 1996 8 May 1996 10 May 1996 26 May 1996 17 May 1996 24 May 1996 30 May 1996 31 May 1996 3Jun1996 5Jun1996 10Jun1996 13Jun1996 24Jun1996 8Jul1996 24Jul1997 25Jul1997 Hours 0700-1400 0800-1300 1400-1730 0700-1100 0700-1300 0830-1330 0800-1300 0800-1300 1200-1600 0800-1300 1200-1500 0800-1300 0630-1100 0830-1200 1300-1800 0800-1200 1200-1600 0830-1200 0830-1200 0730-1200 0800-1200 Not recorded Not recorded Personnel BAD BAD BAD BAD BAD BAO BAD BAO JWB BAO JWB BAO BAO JWB JWB BAO JWB BAO BAO BAO BAO HAW/JLT HAW/JLT Conditions Cool, foggy, 55-62° F, no breeze. Partly cloudy, 55-65" F, wind 0-3 mph from west. Partly cloudy, 60-65° F, wind 3-5 mph from west. Light drizzle, 60° F, wind 0-3 mph from west. Cloudy, 60-65" F, wind 0-3 mph from west. Light drizzle, 55-60° F, wind 3-5 mph from west. Clear, sunny, 65-70° F, light breeze from west. Clear, sunny, 65-70° F, light breeze from west. Clear, sunny, 75-80° F, light breeze from west. Clear, sunny, 65-70° F, light breeze from west. Clear, sunny, 70-75° F, light breeze from west. Clear, sunny, 68-75° F, light breeze from west. Clear, 65-75° F, light breeze from west. Clear, 65-75° F, light breeze from west. Clear, 70-75° F, light breeze from west. Clear, 68-75° F, calm. Clear, 70-75° F, light breeze. Clear, 68-75° F, light breeze from west. Cloudy, 65-70° F, light breeze from west. Cloudy, 65-70° F, light breeze from west. Clear, 70-75° F, light breeze from west. Not recorded. Not recorded. iiimiaal 953.02 * c.nf.,.1, c.r».r.n.. November 26, lyy/ 2 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Existing Conditions/Biological Resources Report Faraday Avenue Extension 2.2.1 Resource Mapping In 1996, plant communities were mapped in the field directly onto a clear acetate on a 200-scale (1"=200') aerial photograph of the area from Aerial Fotobank, flown 6 April 1996. Vegetation boundaries and locations of sensitive species were transferred onto a 200-scale topographic map of the site from O'Day Consultants. These boundaries and locations were digitized by DUDEK GIS technician Martie demons using the ArcCadd system at DUDEK. Following this work, in 1997, additional field work was conducted that resulted in modifications to the vegetation boundaries, particularly as the result of a focus on wetland communities in 1997. Boundaries of jurisdictional wetlands were determined in the field. All areas within or adjacent to a recognizable streambed were examined for their potential as "other waters of the U.S.," using the ordinary high water mark as the criterion, or as wetlands using the presence of hydrophytic, hydric soils, and evidence of hydrology as criteria per the 1987 Corps of Engineers Manual. Thus, wetland community delineations were made first, and adj acent community boundaries adjusted in deference to the wetland. Completed wetland delineation forms for two sites representing study area conditions are attached as Appendix D for reference. Plant community classifications used in this report follow Holland (1986), with modifications to accommodate the lack of conformity of the observed communities to those of Holland. Locations of rare or sensitive plant species also were mapped throughout 1996 and 1997 field visits, and the numbers present were estimated. Locations of rare or sensitive wildlife species were mapped only during the focused studies in 1996. 2.2.2 Flora All plant species encountered during the 1996 and 1997 field surveys were identified and recorded. Those species that could not be identified immediately were brought into the laboratory for further investigation. Latin and common names of plants follow the Jepson Manual (Hickman 1993). Where not listed in Hickman (1993), common names are taken from Beauchamp (1986) or Abrams (1923). A list of plant species observed on the property is presented in Appendix A. 2.2.3 Fauna Wildlife species detected during the 1996 and 1997 field surveys by sight, calls, tracks, scat, or other signs were recorded. Binoculars (7 x 35 power) were used to aid in the identification of observed animals. Records from previous biological studies and accounts from local residents also were consulted. In addition to species actually observed, expected wildlife use of the site was determined 953-02 A c.i,(.,.i« C..M..H..' November 26,1997 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Existing Conditions/Biological Resources Report Faraday Avenue Extension by known habitat preferences of local species and knowledge of their relative distributions in the area. A list of wildlife species observed or detected onsite is presented in Appendix B. Latin and common names of animals follow Stebbins (1985) for reptiles and amphibians, American Ornithologists' Union (1983,1989) for birds, Jones et al. (1992) for mammals, and Enamel and Emmel (1973) for butterflies. 2.2.4 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; (2) species and habitat types recognized by local and regional resource agencies as sensitive; (3) habitat areas or plant communities that are unique, are of relatively limited distribution, or are of particular value to wildlife; and 4) wildlife corridors and habitat linkages. During the focused field surveys a special effort was made to examine more thoroughly those areas suspected to support sensitive resources. The timing of the surveys was nearly optimal for the detection of most annual plants in 1996, and the ambient temperature was warm enough for most summer-active reptiles during most surveys. Surveys for the federally-listed threatened California gnatcatcher (Polioptilo. californico) were conducted following the USFWS protocol: three surveys of each 100-acre potential habitat area, each survey separated by one week. Six visits were conducted. Surveys for the state- and federal-listed least Bell's vireo (Vireo bellii pusillus) and the state-listed southwestern willow flycatchers also were conducted following the protocol of the USFWS: eight surveys each separated by one week. 3.0 PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS 3.1 Site Description The Faraday Avenue Extension study area is situated in the eastern part of the City of Carlsbad in western San Diego County, California (Figure i}. It is bordered to the south by the large industrial and commercial complex along Loker Avenue (Carlsbad Oaks South), to the west by the industrial development in the vicinity of the City's Safety Center, and to the north and east by undeveloped open space (most of which supports native habitat). The property lies approximately 4 miles east of Interstate Highway 5 and about 0.1 mile north of Palomar Airport Road, on the eastern edge of the USGS 7.5 minute San Luis Rey quadrangle and the western edge of the San Marcos quadrangle, T.12S.,R.4W. (Figure 2). 953-02 November 26,1997 I I Orange County San Diego This map was produced by the San Diego ASSOCIATION OFGOVERNMENTS Imperial Beach Mexico Faraday Avenue Extension - Biological Resources and Wetland Delineation Report Regional Map I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I i — ^^ Vi__._V^l_ j_\ SOURCE: USGS 7.5 Minute Series, San Luis Rey, San Marcos, Encinitas & Rancho Santa Fe Quadrangles'1" - 2000' Faraday Avenue Extension - Biological Resources and Wetland Delineation Report Vicinity Map I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Existing Conditions/Biological Resources Report Faraday Avenue Extension Topographically, the site is diverse and elevations vary between approximately 250 and 340 feet above mean sea level. Topographically, the site consists of a canyon area and steep slopes. A narrow incised drainage cuts through the central part of the site. Low-lying portions of the study area have been disturbed for installation of a utility line and provision of an access road. According to Bowman (1973), the following soils are present onsite: Altamont clay (AtE), Cieneba coarse sandy loam (C1G2), and Huerhuero loam (HrD). Soils of the Altamont series consist of well drained clays that formed in material weathered from calcareous shale. Altamont clay (AtE) occurs on slopes of 15 to 30 percent and on rounded hills, and supports primarily grasslands with scattered shrubs. Soils of the Cieneba series (C1E2, C1G2) consist of excessively drained, very shallow to shallow, coarse, sandy loams. These soils formed in material weathered in place from granitic rock. Cieneba coarse sandy loam occurs on hilly uplands with 15 to 30 percent slopes. Soils of the Huerhuero series consist of moderately well drained loams that have a clay subsoil. These soils developed in sandy marine sediments. Huerhuero loam (HrD) occurs on 5 to 9 percent eroded slopes. Altamont clays in the Carlsbad area have a moderate to high potential of supporting sensitive native plants that typically are restricted to such heavy clay soils, i.e., thread-leaved brodiaea (Brodiaea filifolia), San Diego golden-stars (Muilladevelandii}, California adolphia (Adolphiacalifornica), and San Diego thorn-mint (Acanthomintha ilicifolia}. 4.0 RESULTS OF SURVEY 4.1 Botany - Plant Communities and Floral Diversity Based on species composition and general physiognomy, seven plant communities or habitat types were identified onsite: coastal sage scrub (2.0 acres), coyotebrush scrub (0.2 acre), southern mixed chaparral (1.9 acres), disturbed southern mixed chaparral (2.6 acres), scrub oak chaparral (15.7 acres), southern coast live oak riparian forest (2.0 acres), and cismontane alkali marsh (0.1 acre). In addition, five altered or non-native habitat types are present: disturbed wetland (0.3 acre), non-native (annual) grassland (0.8 acre), ornamental plantings (0.1 acre), disturbed habitat (1.86 acres), and developed land (7.2 acres). These habitat types are described below, their acreages are presented in Table 2, and their spatial distribution is presented in Figure. 3. 953-02 A c.u/.,.i< c.,,,,.,i.. November 16,1997 00 I 0 S O3D-n O CDCO COoo CO X CO CO o co o co co oJS- 0 0 0 0 O=§ e -< p c tu3 s» o S- =? « m m i;, MHi-^-iT .r?^.•'^•afe v-^-??/A* i . . ••- ' ,Wir>$Tyr£ "'-// \ ,\l! T / 7 /-ci" r, // ^V/'/J/p.*;/./; v\'\ l/;tX.,;/ tno I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Existing Conditions/Biological Resources Report Faraday Avenue Extension Table 2 Acreages by Habitat Type Coastal Sage Scrub 2.0 acres Coyotebrush Scrub 0.2 acre Southern Mixed Chaparral 1.9 acres Disturbed Southern Mixed Chaparral 2.6 acres Scrub Oak Chaparral 15.7 acres Southern Coast live Oak Riparian Forest 2.0 acres Cismontane Alkali Marsh 0.1 acre Disturbed Wetland 0.3 acre Non-native (Annual) Grassland 0.8 acre Ornamental Plantings 0.1 acre Disturbed Habitat 1.86 acres Developed 7.2 acres TOTAL 34.9 acres 4.1.1 Coastal Sage Scrub Coastal sage scrub is a native plant community composed of a variety of soft, low, aromatic shrubs, characteristically dominated by drought-deciduous species such as California sagebrush (Artemisia californica), flat-top buckwheat (Eriogonum fasciculatum), and sages (Salvia spp.), with scattered evergreen shrubs, including lemonadeberry (Rhus integrifolia"), laurel sumac (Malosma laurina], and toyon (Heteromeles arbutifolia). It typically develops on south-facing slopes and other xeric situations. Coastal sage scrub occurs primarily in the western half of the site. It is dominated by either California sagebrush or black sage (Salvia me.llife.ra) with flat-top buckwheat, lemonadeberry, coyotebrush (Baccharis pilularis], and laurel sumac as lesser components. It supports a diverse understory of native herbs and forbs, including golden-yarrow (Eriophyllum confertiflorum), fascicled tarweed (Hemizonia fasciculatum}, deerweed (Lotus scoparius], blue dicks (Dichelostemma capitata), canchalagua (Centaurium venustum), and several grasses. Coastal sage scrub occurs in two relatively small patches within the study area. Coastal sage scrub is recognized as a sensitive community by local, state, and federal resource agencies. It supports a rich diversity of sensitive plants and animals, and it is estimated that it has been reduced by 75-80% of its historical coverage throughout southern California. It is the focus of the current State of California Natural Communities Conservation Program (NCCP). 953-02 November 26,1997 1 1 1 1 1V 1 1 1 1 • 1 fli Existing Conditions/Biological Resources Report Faraday Avenue Extension 4.1.2 Covotebrush Scrub Coyotebrush scrub is not recognized as a native plant community by Holland (1986). Nonetheless, it is a distinct vegetational association in southern California, dominated by coyotebrush (Baccharis yilularis), usually with a few scattered shrubs of other native species. It is a successional community that frequently occurs in more mesic sites and along drainages where coastal sage scrub or chaparral has been eliminated by perturbation. Onsite this habitat is characterized by nearly uniform stands of coyotebrush with a few other native shrubs in low density. The habitat is definitely disturbance associated and occurs in the margins of disturbed wetlands. Coyotebrush scrub frequently is considered a subcategory of coastal sage scrub by the resource agencies because it is a shrub type that does not adhere well to another category, and its general structure and composition are similar enough to the latter to support many of the "target" coastal sage scrub animal species, including the California gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica) . No sensitive species were observed in this habitat onsite. 4.1.3 Southern Mixed Chaparral Southern mixed chaparral is a drought- and fire-adapted community of woody shrubs, 1.5-3.0 m tall, frequently forming dense, impenetrable stands. It develops primarily on mesic north-facing slopes and in canyons, and is characterized by crown- or stump-sprouting species that regenerate following burns or other ecological catastrophes. This association typically is a mixture of chamise (Adenostoma. fasciculatum), Mission manzanita (Xylococcus bicolor], ceanothus (Ceanothus spp.), scrub oak (Quercus berberidifoHa}, laurel sumac (Malosma laurina), and black sage. Southern mixed chaparral and disturbed southern mixed chaparral are relatively uncommon within the study area, and occur contiguous with scrub oak chaparral and coastal sage scrub. 4.1.4 Scrub Oak Chaparral According to Holland (1986), scrub oak chaparral is "a dense, evergreen chaparral to 20 feet tall, dominated by [scrub oak] Quercus dumosa with considerable [mountain-mahogany] Cercocarpus betuloides." Holland considers this community to be restricted to the western Sierran foothills and the mountains of southern California and northern Baja California, Mexico rather than coastal areas. However, our coastal community dominated by Nuttall's scrub oak fits better into "scrub oak chaparral" than it does into any other Holland community type. Hence; we are using this category for patches of chaparral dominated by Nuttall's scrub oak (Quercus dumosa). l»m>J^1 953 02 A c.M/,,.1, c.,,.,.,i., November 26, 1997 10 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Existing Conditions/Biological Resources Report Faraday Avenue Extension Scrub oak chaparral is the dominant native upland habitat on the site. Patches of this habitat are dominated by NuttalTs scrub oak nearly to the exclusion of all of all other shrub species. 4.1.5 Southern Coast Live Oak Riparian Forest Southern coast live oak riparian forest is an open to locally dense evergreen sclerophyllous riparian woodland dominated by coast live oak (Quercus agrifolia}. According to Holland (1986) it is richer in herbs and poorer in understory shrubs than other riparian communities. It typically occurs in bottomlands and outer floodplains along larger streams, on fine-grained, rich alluvium. Onsite, this community is represented by a narrow band of coast live oak and an understory of poison-oak (Toxicodendron diversilohum), California wild rose (Rosa californica), mugwort (Artemisia douglasiana), and several annuals. 4.1.6 Cismontane Alkali Marsh Cismontane alkali marsh is a wetland community dominated by low, perennial, herbaceous plants adapted to places where standing water or saturated soils are present for a considerable portion of the year. High evaporation and low input of fresh water render these marshes somewhat salty, especially during the summer. Plant species composition tends to favor halophytes such as San Diego poverty-weed (Iva hayesiana), spiny rush, native rye grasses (Leymus spp.) and certain sedges over the typical cattail-bulrush mix of freshwater marsh. Onsite, cismontane alkali marsh occurs in one area where apparent irrigation runoff from the adjacent Carlsbad Oaks South industrial/commercial area collects near the utility access road. These areas are characterized by saltgrass (Distichlis spicata), southwestern spiny rush (Juncus acutus ssp. leopoldii), and Australian brass-buttons (Cotula coronopifolia). 4.1.7 Disturbed Wetland Disturbed wetland is an area of state and federal jurisdictional wetland that contains few native species, does not conform to any other Holland category, and obviously exhibits recent disturbance. One relatively small area of disturbed wetland occurs adjacent to the utility road. It apparently is the result of water that collects and remains following channel overflow. A shallow depth to groundwater also may be a factor. & ASSOCIATES 953-02 c.r».r«"i'» November 26, 1997 11 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Existing Conditions/Biological Resources Report Faraday Avenue Extension 4.1.8 Non-native fAnnuaD Grassland/Ruderal Where the native habitat has been disturbed frequently or intensively by grazing, fire, agriculture, or other activities, the native community usually is incapable of recovering. These areas are characterized by weedy, introduced annuals, including slender wild oat (Avena barbata], bromes (Bromus spp.), mustards (Brassica. and Sisymbrium spp.), and Russian-thistle (Salsola tragus). Non-native grassland occurs in a very small upland area along the utility access road. 4.1.9 Ornamental Plantings/Revegetation Ornamental plantings/revegetation refers to areas where a mix of ornamental and native landscaping has been installed. These areas are dominated by coastal sagebrush, coyotebrush, and quail brush (Atrifkxlentiformis), with Australian eucalyptus (Eucalyptus sp.), salt cedar (Tamarix sp.), ornamental marsh rosemary (Limonium perezii], and ornamental gum plant (Grindelia sp.). These areas are restricted to the south-central portion of the property, where the vegetation is maintained by irrigation. Ornamental plantings occur along the edge of development and consist of alien trees such as eucalyptus (Eucalyptus sp.). 4.1.10 Disturbed Habitat Disturbed habitat refers to areas that lack vegetation entirely. These areas generally are the result of severe or repeated mechanical perturbation. Within the property, disturbed habitat includes graded, undeveloped areas. 4.1.11 Floral Diversity A separate floral inventory was not made for this study area. For illustration, however, the much larger and more diverse adjacent property was found to support a total of 205 species of vascular plants -138 native species (67 percent) and 67 non-native (33 percent) (Appendix A). The flora of the study area is undoubtedly similar but smaller owing to its lower physical diversity, including that provided by additional soils, slope exposures and microhabitats. Included in the flora of the study area are 3 species currently considered sensitive by local, state, or federal resource agencies. 953-02&ASSOCUTES| c.iiftr.u c.r».r»n» November 26,1997 12 1 1 1 1 • 1 1 •1 •• 1 1 • 1 Existing Conditions/Biological Resources Report Faraday Avenue Extension ^"^^ .ii.i.i- , ,, — , .. — — 4.2 Zoology - Wildlife Diversity 4.2.1 Birds A separate wildlife inventory was not made for this study area; the recorded avifauna of this and the proposed Carlsbad Oaks North were merged. Forty-three (43) species of birds were observed during our surveys (see Appendix B) . The avifauna is comprised of a number of migratory species and several residents, representing a moderately diverse assemblage of species associated with coastal sage scrub and chaparral, along with several species found more commonly in oak woodlands. The most commonly observed species include California quail (Callipepla California), mourning dove (Lenaida macroura), Anna's hummingbird (Calypte anna}, common raven (Corvus corax), wrentit (Chamaea fasciata), California thrasher (Toxostoma redivivum), phainopepla (Phainopepla nitens], rufous-sided towhee (Pipilo erythrophthalmus) , and California towhee (Fifth crissalis}. Oak woodlands onsite provide habitat for a variety of woodland birds, including acorn woodpecker (Melamrpesformicivorus), northern flicker (Colaptes auratus) , Nuttall's woodpecker (Picoidesnuttallif), and oak titmouse (Pants inornatus]. Raptors as a group are considered sensitive, and a variety of raptors were observed: Copper's hawk (Accipiter cooperi], sharp-shinned hawk (Accipiter striatus), red-shouldered hawk (Buteo Hneatus), red- tailed hawk (Buteo jamaicensis), and white-tailed kite (Elaniis cae.mle.us). The site undoubtedly represents foraging habitat for a variety of locally resident raptors, and a few that are winter visitors to the coastal region, including northern harrier (Circus cyamus] and turkey vulture (CatharUs aura). It is likely that Cooper's hawk and a few other raptors nest in the oak riparian habitat onsite. 4.2.2 Reptiles and Amphibians A separate reptile and amphibian inventory was not made for this study area; the recorded herptile fauna of this and the proposed Carlsbad Oaks North were merged. Six species of reptiles were observed on this and the adjacent site, including side-blotched lizard (Uta stansburiana), Great Basin fence lizard (Sceloporus occidentalis], San Diego horned lizard (Phrynosoma coronata blainvillei), orange- throated whiptail (Cnemidophorus hyperythrus), gopher snake (Pituophis mdanokucus) , and northern red-diamond rattlesnake (Crotalus ruber ruber}. Several other reptiles are common in the area and may occur within the study area, including southern alligator lizard (Gerrhonotus multicarinatus webbii), coastal western whiptail (Cnemidophorus tigris multiscutatus] , and common kingsnake (Lampropehis getulus). The only amphibians observed onsite were western treefrog (Hyla regilla) and bullfrog (Ran a catesbeiana). Among the few other expected amphibians are oak salamander (Aneides lugubris], garden salamander (Batrachoseps attenuatus] and western toad (Bufo boreas). nmin«,« A c.h/.,«« c.,Mf.i.* November 26; 1997 13 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Existing Conditions/Biological Resources Report Faraday Avenue Extension Although no sightings of the sensitive reptiles were made in the study area, three of those observed adjacent are considered sensitive by local, state, or federal resource agencies: San Diego horned lizard, orange-throated whiptail, and red-diamond rattlesnake. 4.2.3 Mammals A separate mammal inventory was not made for this study area; the recorded mammal fauna of this and the proposed Carlsbad Oaks North were merged. Seven species of mammals were recorded on this and the adjacent the site, including cottontail rabbit (Syhilagus sp.), California ground squirrel (Spermophilus beecheyt), Botta's pocket gopher (Thomomys bottae), woodrat (Neotoma sp.), coyote (Cants latrans), gray fox (Urocyon cineroargenteus), and bobcat (Lynx rufus). Other mammal species likely to be present include striped skunk (Mephitis mephitis), Virginia opossum (Didelphis virginica), and raccoon (Procyon lotor). Potentially occurring sensitive mammals include Dulzura California pocket mouse (Chaetodipus californicus femoralis), northwestern San Diego pocket mouse (Chaetodtpus fallax), and San Diego black-tailed jackrabbit (Lepus californicus bennettii}. 4.2.4 Invertebrates Seventeen (17) species of butterflies were observed during the survey work on the combined properties. The most commonly observed species included cabbage butterfly (Pieris rapae), California sister (Adelpha bredowii), buckeye (Junonia coenia), Bernardino blue (Euphilotes bernardino], and California ringlet (Coenonympha tullia}. The high plant species richness in the general area undoubtedly is accompanied by an equally high phytophagous (plant-feeding) insect species richness. In particular, there are probably over 150 species of Lepidoptera (butterflies and moths) and a comparable number of Coleoptera (beetles). The perennial water provides habitat for a number of aquatic insects - dragonflies and damselflies (Odonata), aquatic true bugs (Hemiptera), and aquatic beetles (Coleoptera) are expected to be fairly diverse onsite. 4.3 Sensitive Biological Resources The following resources are discussed in this section: (1) 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, that are the results, in most cases, of habitat reduction; and (2) habitat areas that are unique, are of relatively limited distribution, 953-02 l&ASSOCIATESl c>r».»ni» November 26, 1997 14 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Existing Conditions/Biological Resources Report Faraday Avenue Extension or are of particular value to wildlife. Sources used for determination of sensitive biological resources are as follows: wildlife -- U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS1989,1991), California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG 1980,1986), Remsen (1978), Everett (1979), McGurty (1980), and Murphy (1990); plants - USFWS (1990,1993), CDFG (1987), and Skinner and Pavlik (1994); and habitats - Holland (1986). 4.3.1 Sensitive Plant Species Four plant species considered sensitive by various resource agencies were observed within the study area: California adolphia (Adolphia californica), summer-holly (Comarostaphylis diversifolia), southwestern spiny rush (Juncusacutus var. leopoldii) andNuttall's scrub oak (Quercus dutnosa). These species are discussed below and their locations are illustrated in the biological resources map (Figure 3). The listing authorities and explanation of listing categories are presented in Appendix C. Although the USFWS recently eliminated the use of the Category 2 candidate (C2) status, these are retained below because some C2 species currently are under further review for possible listing as endangered or threatened status. Adolphia californica - California adolphia USFWS: None CDFG: None CNPS: List 2, 1-2-1 California adolphia is a moderate-sized (0.5-1.0 m), profusely branched, rigid, spinescent shrub, ranging from western San Diego County, California, south into adjacent northwestern Baja California, Mexico (Wiggins 1980). It generally occurs on clay soils and on dry south-facing slopes in chaparral and coastal sage scrub below 300 m (965 ft) elevation. It blooms in late winter to spring (December-May). In San Diego County it has been reported from Morro Hill, Cerro de Calavera, Agua Hedionda, Rancho Santa Fe, Mount Soledad, Bernardo, Chollas Valley, Barrett Junction, and Proctor Valley (Beauchamp 1986). Urbanization of coastal southern California has reduced considerably its range (Smith and Berg 1988). A large population is present in coastal sage scrub west of the utility access road. Although not counted, it is estimated that there are at least 500 individuals in this area. 953-02 A c.ii/fr«« c.r».«n<» November 26,1997 15 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Existing Conditions/Biological Resources Report Faraday Avenue Extension Comarostaphylis diversifolia ssp. diversifolia - summer-holly USFWS: former Category 2 candidate CDFG: None CNPS: List IB, 2-2-2 Summer-holly is a large shrub generally occurring on north-facing canyons and slopes and in sandy washes in chaparral and foothill habitats below 700 m (2,300 ft) in scattered locations from the Pacific coast in San Diego County south into Baja California. Reported localities in the County include San Marcos Mountains, Mount Whitney, Rancho Santa Fe, Gonzales Canyon, Encinitas, Mount Soledad, Penasquitos Canyon, Del Mar Heights, Iron Mountain, canyons of Mission Valley, Jamul Valley, and Otay Mountain (Beauchamp 1986). Summer-holly is relatively common in small ravines within scrub oak chaparral along the utility access road; perhaps 25 individuals occur there. Juncus acutus var. leopoldii - southwestern spiny rush USFWS: None CDFG: None CNPS: List 4, 1-1-3 This large (0.5-1.5 m), tufted, perennial rush, with stout, rigid stems, is encountered frequently in alkaline seeps and marshes or in areas adjacent to these. Spiny rush has a wide distribution from San Luis Obispo County south to Baja California and east to Imperial County and Arizona. Although urbanization represents a serious threat to spiny rush (Smith and Berg 1988), the abundance of this plant in many widely separated wetlands, together with the current application of protection for these habitats, indicates a rather low threat to this species. Southwestern spiny rush was observed at tow locations in the study area; a total of at least 72 plants were mapped. Quercus dumosa - NuttalTs scrub oak USFWS: former Category 2 candidate CDFG: None CNPS: List IB, 2-3-2 It was proposed (Hickman 1993) that the common, widespread species formerly known as scrub oak (Quercus dumosa} actually represents two closely related species — Nuttall's scrub oak (Quercus dumosa} and "interior" scrub oak (Quercus berberidifolia). Although interior scrub oak is widely distributed 953-02 A c.ii/.,.u c.,,.,.n..' November 26,1997 16 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Existing Conditions/Biological Resources Report Faraday Avenue Extension throughout southern California in chaparral habitats, Nuttall's scrub oak is restricted to the narrow coastal strip, and hence, has been severely affected by development. This species was one of eight native plants included in a "southern maritime chaparral listing package" circulated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in 1993. Nuttall's scrub oak is the dominant species in scrub oak chaparral onsite. It is likely that the site supports at least 1,000 individuals of this species. 4.3.2 Sensitive Wildlife Species No animal species listed as rare, threatened, or endangered by the USFWS or CDFG were observed within the study area. Within the general area, four species formerly recognized as a Category 2 candidates for listing by the USFWS were observed: southern California rufous-crowned sparrow (Aimophila ruficepscanescens], orange-throated whiptail (Cnemidophofushyperythrus), San Diego horned lizard (Phrynosoma coronatum blainvillet), and northern red-diamond rattlesnake (Crotalus ruber ruber). Six species recognized as species of special concern by the CDFG also have been documented from the general area during other surveys: golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos), white-tailed kite (Elanus caemleus), Copper's hawk (Accipitercooperi}, sharp-shinned hawk (Accipiterstriatus), northern harrier (Circus cyaneus), and burrowing owl (Athene, cunicularia). These species, along with numerous potentially occurring sensitive species, are discussed below. The listing authorities and explanation of listing categories are presented in Appendix C. BIRDS Accipiter cooperi - Cooper's hawk USFWS: None CDFG: Species of Special Concern Cooper's hawk ranges through most of California and is a common winter migrant in San Diego County. In the County, Cooper's hawk breeds almost exclusively in oak woodland habitats; in the winter they may be found in any woodland habitat (Unitt 1984). Populations of this species have declined steadily throughout the state probably as a result of habitat destruction, falconry, and pesticide abuse (Remsen 1978). Individuals of Cooper's hawk were observed during nearly every survey of the adjacent property, primarily in association with the oak woodland of the main drainage. They are expected also to occur on this site. Adequate nesting habitat occurs on the site. 953-02 c.u/.r.u c.r>.,.ni. November 26, 1997 17 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Existing Conditions/Biological Resources Report Faraday Avenue Extension Buteo lineatus - red-shouldered hawk USFWS: None CDFG: None Audubon Blue List 1972-1986 ,.. The red-shouldered hawk is an uncommon to fairly common resident in San Diego County (Unitt 1984), inhabiting most of the county west of the desert. Red-shouldered hawks occupy a variety of woodland habitats, and stands of non-native trees (e.g., eucalyptus) may serve as breeding habitat. Although concern has been expressed that the numbers of this species are declining, Wilbur (1973) concluded that no major declines in population had occurred in California except possibly in the Sacramento and San Joaquin Valleys. These hawks apparently can tolerate human presence if mature trees with a high canopy are maintained. An individual of the red-shouldered hawk was observed foraging on the adjacent site and also is expected to occur within the Faraday Avenue study area. Adequate nesting habitat occurs on the site. Accipiter striatus - sharp-shinned hawk USFWS: None CDFG: Species of Special Concern This species is a CDFG species of special concern; it also is a Bureau of Land Management and U.S. Forest Service watch list species due to declines in populations throughout its breeding range. The sharp-shinned hawk is a regular winter migrant in San Diego County and may be encountered in any woodland habitat (Unitt 1984). The riparian-woodlands onsite represent potential habitat for this species. An individual of the sharp-shinned hawk was observed foraging on the adjacent property, and, because this species is a fairly common non-breeding migrant, it also is expected to occurwithin the study area seasonally. Circus cyaneus - northern harrier USFWS: None CDFG: Species of Special Concern The northern harrier ranges throughout California and maybe encountered in grasslands, open fields, and salt and freshwater marshes. Although breeding is restricted to marshes and grasslands, it forages over a variety of habitat types including coastal sage scrub. According to Unitt (1984), the northern harrier is an uncommon-to-fairly common migrant and winter visitor in San Diego County, 953-02 , c.,,.r.«.. November 26, 1997 18 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Existing Conditions/Biological Resources Report Faraday Avenue Extension and a rare and local summer resident. This species has declined in southern California as a result of loss of foraging and nesting habitat. This species was reported from the adjacent site by RECON (1984). Although none was observed during the 1996-197 surveys, it is likely that the harrier uses the area for foraging. It is highly unlikely that nesting occurs in this area. Elanus caeruleus - white-tailed kite USFWS: None CDFG: Species of Special Concern According to Unitt (1984), the white-tailed kite is a fairly common resident in San Diego County. This species prefers to nest in riparian woodlands that border grasslands or open fields. Kites may forage over any grassy area, and often are seen hovering over the weedy margins of freeways. Kites occasionally gather to roost communally, and such roosts may include as many as 50 individuals (Unitt 1984). The white-tailed kite exhibits rather dramatic population fluctuations, and may common for several years followed by years of relatively rarity. White-tailed kites were observed foraging over and roosting/perching in the oak riparian forest habitat on the adjacent property. In contrast to that site, the Faraday Avenue study area does not contain ample foraging habitat and they are much less likely to occur here. Nesting is possible but less likely. Aquila chrysaetos - golden eagle USFWS: None (Protected under Bald Eagle Act) CDFG: Fully Protected Species, Species of Special Concern The golden eagle is an uncommon resident in San Diego County. According to Unitt (1984), they may be observed soaring over any habitat, but they forage in grassland and broken chaparral or sage scrub - situations where they can effectively hunt rabbits and California ground squirrels, their principal food items. The distribution of golden eagles in the foothill, mountain, and desert areas of San Diego County has changed little through history, but the territories of this species in the coastal lowlands have been eliminated by urbanization, agriculture, and human disturbance (Unitt 1984). Although reported from the adjacent site by RECON (1984), no individuals of this species were observed during any of the general or focused surveys conducted recently by DUDEK. Because of this species' needs for secluded nesting areas, it is extremely unlikely that it could nest anywhere in the area. 953-02 'A c.nf.~,.i, c.,y.t.,i..' November 26,1997 19 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Existing Conditions/Biological Resources Report Faraday Avenue Extension Cathanes aura - turkey vulture USFWS: None CDFG: None Although not recognized as sensitive by the USFWS or the CDFG; the turkey vulture is considered "declining" in San Diego County (Everett 1978). In southern California, turkey vultures are fairly widespread and may be observed foraging over open fields and grasslands. Unitt (1984) reports that vultures are common spring and fall migrants, uncommon to locally common winter visitors, and rare to uncommon summer residents in the County. They rely on carrion for food, and they are a valuable and necessary part of the food chain. Turkey vultures have declined in throughout southern California in part because of poisoning and loss of habitat. Turkey vultures were observed foraging over the adjacent site on several occasions; they also could forage over this study area. Nesting is extremely unlikely within the study area. Athene cunicularia - burrowing owl USFWS: None CDFG: Species of Special Concern The burrowing owl is continuing to decline throughout most of California owing to loss of habitat, poisoning, and predation by dogs and cats. Although rare or uncommon throughout most of the state, it is common in Imperial County where it reaches peak abundance levels (Garret & Dunn, 1981), living in burrows along canal banks, the edges of agricultural fields, and other open areas. A single individual of the burrowing owl was reported from adjacent the site by RECON (1984), but was not relocated by DUDEK (1997). It is even less likely to occur within the Faraday Avenue study area. Vireo bellii pusillus - least Bell's vireo USFWS: Endangered CDFG: Endangered Least Bell's vireo is a small, gray and white, migratory songbird that inhabits willow-dominated riparian areas of southern California and adjacent northern Baja California, Mexico (San Diego Association of Governments 1988). It is one of four North American subspecies of Bell's vireo. Historically, this subspecies was abundant in riverine habitats from Baja California to Tehama County in central California (Grinnell and Miller 1944, Willett 1933), with the center of its breeding range in the Sacramento and San Joaquin Valleys. Widespread destruction of its obligate riparian 953-02 A c.i./.,.u c.,,.,.,1..' November 26,1997 20 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Existing Conditions/Biological Resources Report Faraday Avenue Extension habitat for agricultural use, livestock grazing, flood control, urban development, and various commercial uses in combination with increased brood parasitism by the exotic brown-headed cowbird (Molothrus ater) decimated vireo numbers, extirpating it from the central valleys, and restricting the species to small, fragmented populations in a fraction of its former range (USFWS 1988). By 1985, only 285 pairs were known from 45 locations in 9 counties (USFWS 1988). In response to the unparalleled decline of this passerine, the least Bell's vireo was listed as endangered by the California Department of Fish and Game in June 1980, and by the USFWS in May 1986. As a result of more the rigorous enforcement of wetland laws and extensive cowbird trapping, least Bell's vireo has made modest gains in population numbers over the past few years. Despite a focused survey for this species on this and the adjacent site, no individuals of the least Bell's vireo were observed. Aimophila. ruficeps cane.sce.ns - southern California rufous-crowned sparrow USFWS: former Category 2 candidate CDFG: Species of Special Concern The rufous-crowned sparrow is considered sensitive by the County of San Diego; until recently it was recognized by the USFWS as a federal category 2 candidate for listing as threatened or endangered. This species occurs primarily in coastal sage scrub and has declined as a result of habitat loss. Rufous-crowned sparrows were observed onsite during the focused surveys for the California gnatcatcher. Polioptila californica - California gnatcatcher USFWS: Threatened CDFG: Species of Special Concern The California gnatcatcher is a small gray non-migratory bird with black tail markings. During the breeding season the male has a distinct black cap. Gnatcatchers eat insects and build a small, cup- shaped nest of plant material, animal hair, and spider webs. A pair of gnatcatchers typically forage over 5 to 20 acres during the breeding season and more widely at the end of spring. The present known range of the California gnatcatcher extends from the Palos Verdes Peninsula of Los Angeles County south through Orange, western Riverside, and San Diego counties, into northern Baja California, Mexico. The gnatcatcher is a near obligate resident of coastal sage scrub and inland sage scrub communities. Individuals of this species generally are found at elevations below 900 feet in San Diego, Orange, and Los Angeles counties, and below 1600 feet in Riverside County (Atwood 1990). Based on recent resource mapping for subregional management plans (e.g., MSCP, MHCP, Orange County NCCPs), it is estimated that there are 3,000-3,500 pairs in California. 953-02 c.n/.r.u c.r....n., November 26,1997 21 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Existing Conditions/Biological Resources Report Faraday Avenue Extension Focused surveys conducted specifically for the gnatcatcher during 1996 yielded no observations on this, the adjacent site or in the immediate vicinity. REPTILES Cnemidophorus hyperythrus beldingi - orange-throated whiptail USFWS: former Category 2 candidate CDPG: Species of Special Concern The orange-throated whiptail lizard is a small, slender, insectivorous lizard with a bright orange patch on its throat. It occurs in the United States and Mexico, ranging from coastal southern California south to the tip of the peninsula of Baja California. This species has exhibited population declines in California associated with the conversion of coastal sage scrub and dry wash habitats for agriculture, urban development, and flood control. An active forager, the orange-throated whiptail frequents dry, often rocky hillsides, ridges, valleys, and washes that support broken coastal sage scrub, chaparral, mule fat scrub, and grassland mixed with sage scrub species. It often occurs with the more common western whiptail (C. tigris). The orange-throated whiptail relies to some extent on the burrows of small mammals, such as the California ground squirrel (Spermoyhilus beecheyt], for protection from predators and adverse environmental conditions. A single individual was observed on the adjacent site. Habitat appears suitable throughout uplands within the study area and the orange-throated whiptail may be present throughout areas of coastal sage scrub and chaparral. Cnemidophorus tigris multiscutatus - coastal western whiptail USFWS: former Category 2 candidate CDFG: None The coastal western whiptail is a moderately large, slender lizard typically found in semiarid areas or where the vegetation is sparse. It eats insects, spiders, scorpions, and lizards. It is restricted to the western coast of North America from about Ventura County, California, south through the northern two-thirds of the peninsula of Baja California. This species apparently has declined in California as a result of loss of habitat to urban development. Although not observed onsite, this species is present in comparable habitat in the subregion and may occur within the study area. 953-02 A c.n/.r.u c.r>...u.. November 26,1997 22 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Existing Conditions/Biological Resources Report Faraday Avenue Extension Phrynosoma coronation blainvillei - San Diego horned lizard USFWS: former Category 2 candidate CDFG: Species of Special Concern The San Diego horned lizard is a small, spiny, somewhat rounded lizard that occurs primarily in coastal sage scrub communities. It ranges throughout California 'west of the desert and Cascade- Sierran highlands, south through nearly all of Baja California, Mexico. It was a common species in San Diego County until about 15 years ago. Three factors have contributed to its decline: loss of habitat, over collecting, and the introduction of exotic ants (McGurty 1980). In some places, especially adjacent to urban areas, introduced ants have displaced native harvester ants (Pogonomyrmex spp.) upon which the lizard feeds exclusively. Based on the amount and quality of shrublands on the property, San Diego horned lizard could be expected in nearly any fairly open patches of coastal sage scrub or chaparral. A single individual of this species was observed on the adjacent site; it is expected to be fairly widespread there and also may occur within the study area. Crotalus ruber ruber - northern red-diamond rattlesnake USFWS: former Category 2 candidate CDFG: Species of Special Concern The northern red-diamond rattlesnake is a brick red to pinkish tan relative of the western diamondback (Crotalus atrox}. It ranges from San Bernardino County south through most of Baja California, Mexico (Stebbins 1985). It occurs in desert scrub, thorn scrub, and chaparral habitats below about 1,200 meters (4,000 feet). A single individual of this species was observed on the adjacent site. It is expected also to occur within the study area. Lichanura irivirgata roseofusca - coastal rosy boa USFWS: former Category 2 candidate CDFG: None The coastal rosy boa is a heavy-bodied snake, 60-110 cm in length. It inhabits shrublands and is considerably more common in the vicinity of rocks. It is recognized as locally sensitive by Stewart (1971) and Bury (1971). Although not observed, this species may be present in chaparral within the study area. 953-02 w November 26,1997 23 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Existing Conditions/Biological Resources Report Faraday Avenue Extension Thamnophis hammondii - two-striped garter snake USFWS: former Category 2 candidate CDFG: None The two-striped garter snake is restricted to southern California and adj acent Baj a California, Mexico. It occurs primarily in wetland habitats and may be encountered in freshwater marsh, riparian woodlands, and vernal pools. This species was recognized as "threatened" by the San Diego Herpetological Society (McGurty 1980), and was added to the federal candidate list (USFWS) in 1991. The two-striped garter snake is likely to be present in riparian habitats within the study area. 4.3.3 Sensitive Habitats Sensitive habitats are those that are considered rare within the region, support sensitive plant and/or wildlife species, or function as corridors for wildlife movement. Habitat types found onsite that are considered sensitive include coastal sage scrub, coyotebrush scrub, scrub oak chaparral, southern coast live oak riparian forest, disturbed wetland, and cismontane alkali marsh. 4.3.4 Wildlife Corridors and Habitat Linkages Wildlife corridors are linear features that connect large patches of natural open space and provide avenues for the immigration and emigration of animals. Wildlife corridors contribute to population viability in several ways: (1) they assure the continual exchange of genes between populations which helps maintain genetic diversity; (2) they provide access to adjacent habitat areas representing additional territory for foraging and mating; (3) they allow for a greater carrying capacity; and (4) they provide routes for colonization of habitat lands following local populations extinctions or habitat recovery from ecological catastrophes (e.g., fires). Habitat linkages are patches of native habitat that function to join two larger patches of habitat. They serve as connections between habitat patches and help reduce the adverse effects of habitat fragmentation. Although individual animals may not move through a habitat linkage, the linkage does represent a potential route for gene flow and long-term dispersal. Habitat linkages may serve as both habitat and avenues of gene flow for small animals such as reptiles and amphibians. Habitat linkages may be represented by continuous patches of habitat or by nearby habitat "islands" that function as "stepping stones" for dispersal. Currently, the study area may serve as a limited local corridor. Its value is highly compromised by the lack of a significant habitat block to the west. iiliiilsiMl 953-02 ^ASSOCIATES A c.iij.r.u c.,,.r.n.. November 26,1997 24 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Existing Conditions/Biological Resources Report Faraday Avenue Extension 4.4 Regional Resource Planning Context In San Diego County, three major, coordinated conservation planning efforts currently are in progress with the long-term goal of identifying a system of preserves that will protect native habitat lands and their associated biota. The three efforts are (1) the City of San Diego's Multiple Species Conservation Program (MSCP), administered by the Metropolitan Wastewater Department, focused on biological resource planning for the southwestern one-fourth of the County; (2) the San Diego Association of Government's (SANDAG) Multiple Habitat Conservation Program (MHCP), funded by a consortium of jurisdictions in northern San Diego County known as the North County Wildlife Forum, focusing on the northwestern one-fourth of the County; and (3) the County of San Diego Open Space Plan, which focuses on the portion of the County east of the MSCP and MHCP study areas. The ultimate goal of these plans is the establishment of biological reserve areas in conformance with the State of California's Natural Community Conservation Program (NCCP). These programs are moving forward under the regulatory influence of the 4(d) Rule pursuant to the Endangered Species Act, which allows for the interim loss of 5% of existing coastal sage scrub until the preserves (NCCPs) are formalized. In addition, the City of Carlsbad is in the process of preparing its Habitat Management Plan, intended to be a Subarea Plan of the NCCP and MHCP. The study area received the highest ranking in terms of habitat value in the Habitat Evaluation Model developed for the MHCP project, probably owing to the presence of native habitats in association with oak woodlands. In addition, the study area is within the MHCP Biological Core and Linkage Area which represents the envelope within which a future biological preserve area will be more accurately defined. Core Areas were defined as "concentrations of sensitive biological resources whose loss could not be mitigated elsewhere." 5.0 ANTICIPATED PROJECT IMPACTS This section addresses direct and indirect impacts to biological resources that would result from implementation of the proposed Faraday Avenue Extension project. Direct impacts were quantified by overlaying the limits of project grading on the biological resources map of the site. For the purposes of this assessment, all biological resources within the limits of grading were considered 100% lost. Indirect impacts are very difficult to identify and quantify but are presumed to occur. They primarily result from adverse "edge effects," either short-term indirect impacts related to construction or long- term, chronic indirect impacts associated with location of disturbance-causing facilities in proximity 953-02 c.n/.r.K c.D.r.u.. November 26,1997 25 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Existing Conditions/Biological Resources Report Faraday Avenue Extension to biological resources. During construction of the project, short-term indirect impacts may include dust and noise which could disrupt habitat and species vitality temporarily and construction related soil erosion and runoff. Long-term indirect impacts may include intrusions by humans and domestic pets, noise, lighting, invasion by exotic plant and wildlife species, effects of toxic chemicals (fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, and other hazardous materials), urban runoff form developed areas, soil erosion, litter, fire, and hydrological changes (e.g., groundwater level and quality). Cumulative impacts refer to incremental individual environmental effects of two or more projects when considered together. These impacts taken individually may be minor, but collectively significant as they occur over a period of time. 5.1 Direct Impacts 5.1.1 Vegetation Communities Implementation of the proposed pro] ect would result in the direct and complete loss of the vegetation community acreages presented in Table 3. The areas to be affected directly are depicted on Figure 4- Table 3 Impacted Acreages by Habitat Type Coastal Sage Scrub 0.4 acre Coyotebrush Scrub 0.1 acre Southern Mixed Chaparral 0.2 acre Disturbed Southern Mixed Chaparral 1.4 acres Scrub Oak Chaparral 2.8 acres Non-native (Annual) Grassland 0.1 acre Subtotal, Natural Upland Habitats 5-0 acres Southern Coast Live Oak Riparian Forest 1.1 acres Cismontane Alkali Marsh 0.1 acre Disturbed Wetland 0.04 acre Subtotal, Wetland Habitats 1.24 acres Ornamental Plantings 0.0 acre Disturbed Habitat 1.1 acre Developed 0.4 acre Subtotal, Disturbed Upland Habitats 1.5 acres TOTAL 7.7 acres 953-02 , 26t. c.u/tr.u c.r»."H'» November 26,1997 !&ASSOCUTESi DO Q) CD CD rn CO S CD CO roo' CoCD C. 55^3 - S- OCA 2. C3 5-i-B. CD5"Sta ?. o> 5 O3O Tl OCOCO COoo CO •^x oenCO Om o CO' o CO <o OoJ> Q, ^ CO- o o o> CO COo co O=r 01 •o'D> S' I Io3 CO COo oto*• O 01• ro tu— "O111 o ^2 2 CO ~~ S * -!CO CO CO m CO OO o m • > if 1 o oso 01 — o=E fe- ll a « 0 ^ 1 wS- =T §=3 tuCDsr CD r*^ tn 2 55" c. -§ SL Dl 5"~ go. 5-cu_ OJ mf^2: s- Ol CO > 2= CO i I if 8- OI $ Q> COco_to fr g Sf 1 II- ?l ? S S D- co- CDm _iS V)s =S- B:i'£re os i. m I •v z CO•omO mco T> o•oocos. o I to CO 2. s- §" I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Existing Conditions/Biological Resources Report Faraday Avenue Extension A total of 7.7 acres would be required to accommodate the project grading, of which 6.2 acres is natural habitat, and 1.2 acres is considered jurisdictional wetland (Table 3). The impacts to the following 3.3 acres of natural upland plant communities would be considered significant: coastal sage scrub (0.4 acre), coyotebrush scrub (0.1 acre), and scrub oak chaparral (2.8 acres). The impacts to 1.6 acres of undisturbed and disturbed southern mixed chaparral are not considered significant per se, although populations of sensitive plant species are involved (see below). The impacts to the following 1.2 acres of wetland plant communities would be considered significant: southern coastal live oak riparian forest (1.1 acres), cismontane alkali marsh (0.1 acre), and disturbed wetland (0.04 acre). 5.1.2 Sensitive Plants Implementation of the proposed project would result in the direct loss of individuals of three sensitive plant species: California adolphia (approximately 25 individuals); summer-holly (approximately 5 individuals); southwestern spiny rush (approximately 50 individuals). These impacts are not considered significant. All three species retain relatively large populations in San Diego County, and representative amounts, greater than 50% in the cases of California adolphia and summer-holly, will be retained within the study area after project construction. 5.1.3 Sensitive Animals Implementation of the proposed project would not result in any direct impacts to any identified locations of sensitive species. However, it is likely that several sensitive species have populations in the areas to be impacted, and that small numbers of the following would be affected directly: southern California rufous-crowned sparrow, orange-throated whiptail, San Diego horned lizard, and northern red-diamond rattlesnake. Other species identified in the general area also could be affected, probably indirectly (see below). 5.1.4 Habitat Linkages/Movement Corridors Because wildlife probably use the canyon bottom, and especially the graded utility line access road, for movement, construction and operation of the project may result in an impact to wildlife movement in the local area. Currently, there is a potential for wildlife movement between fragmentary wildlife habitat patches surrounding the El Camino Real-Palomar Airport Road intersection (i.e., Hughes parcel, County property, northern part of Bressi Ranch) and the northeast (Figure $). Part of this hypothetical route, along the utility access road, transects the western half of the project area. 953-02|& ASSOCIATES! A c.n(.r.i« c.r».r.n.» November 26,1997 28 CDO O = •° S< «•CD S O =3 3 D- 3 s- =. =0r* » CD oC/9 — ™-5=«™3 coco3"S2§B tn^ji!Sg^SgJ g-om !l§ JIJIJIJ! JUi »S5'?5' C/3^2 O^ Or- -°P5«' 3& ^PSj °* PS -25 °ET S^- O ^ ^p" S3 P — SS S5 (S^ZwSS1 ~D C" g^ S" S^c/) ^Scrj-ni-n^tTiW =>i_g^~'Ln ^yto^. "" w ^> = ^ ™ 0 ' = O r^ c 5 ^ ^ <7) ui« 51.ii. S^BLJ S" " K. § , 0 ir i • n^ 1 l'- °^ S .( • t•> «>;i:l UJifi ? HJ'!|»i b! iMfSii? to I'i*s hliifi? iii «l|{ifr ^1 -I £30j II s| SZ| o CO I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Existing Conditions/Biological Resources Report Faraday Avenue Extension 5.2 Indirect Impacts 5.2.1 Vegetation Communities Indirect impacts to vegetation communities primarily would result from adverse "edge effects." During construction of the project, edge effects may include dust which could disrupt plant vitality in the short term or construction related soil erosion and run-off. Long-term indirect impacts on vegetation communities most likely would occur as a result of invasion of exotic plant species, increases in fire frequency, and exposure to urban pollutants. 5.2.2 Sensitive Plants Most of the indirect impacts to vegetation communities cited above can also affect sensitive plants. 5.2.3 Sensitive Wildlife Most of the indirect impacts to vegetation communities and sensitive plants cited above can also affect sensitive wildlife. However, additional indirect impacts on wildlife are possible. During construction of the project, indirect effects may include dust and noise that could disrupt normal behaviors crucial for foraging and breeding. Long-term edge effects could include noise intrusions by humans and domestic pets and possible trampling of wildlife habitat, lighting, invasion by exotic plant and wildlife species, exposure to urban pollutants, soil erosion, litter, fire and response to wildfire. Some sensitive wildlife species are believed to require large tracts of relatively undisturbed habitat (i.e., "interior species") and populations may decrease or disappear along the edges of habitat. Other species are nest-parasitized by the brown-headed cowbird, which is more likely to occur along urban-wildlife habitat interfaces. 5.2.4 Habitat Linkages/Movement Corridors No effects are expected to occur to habitat linkages because these features were not identified to occur in the study area. However, adverse edge effects caused by implementation of the project could indirectly affect local wildlife movement. Narrowing and constraining of habitat movement areas will bring wildlife into more frequent contact with humans, and other human-generated sources of disturbance, particularly vehicles. Wildlife mortality because of collisions with vehicles will become more frequent. Lighting and noise may inhibit movement by some nocturnal species. 953-02 _____ |& A S S 0 CIA T E 5| i ——^—•—i^———— i^—^——^———^A c.ii/.,.u c.,,...~ii.. November 26,1997 30 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Existing Conditions/Biological Resources Report Faraday Avenue Extension 6.0 ANALYSIS OF SIGNIFICANCE 6.1 Explanation of Findings of Significance Impacts to native habitats, sensitive plants, and sensitive wildlife species must be quantified and analyzed to determine whether such impacts are significant under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). CEQA Guidelines section 15064(b) states that an ironclad definition of "significant" effect is not possible because the significance of an activity may vary with the setting. Appendix G of the Guidelines, however, does provide "examples of consequences which may be deemed to be a significant effect on the environment" (Guidelines section 15064(e)). These effects include substantial effects on rare or endangered species of animal or plant or the habitat of the species. Guidelines section 15065(a) also is helpful in defining whether a project may have "a significant effect on the environment." Under that section, a proposed pro] ect may have a significant effect on the environment if the project has the potential to: (1) substantially degrade the quality of the environment; (2) substantially reduce the habitat of a fish or wildlife species; (3) cause a fish or wildlife population to drop below self-sustaining levels; (4) threaten to eliminate a plant or animal community; (5) reduce the number or restrict the range of a rare or endangered plant or animal; or (6) eliminate important examples of the major period of California history or prehistory. The evaluation of whether or not an impact to a particular biological resource is significant must consider both the resource itself and the role of that resource in a regional context. Substantial impacts are those that contribute to, or result in, permanent loss of an important resource, such as a population of a rare plant or animal. Impacts may be important locally because they result in an adverse alteration of existing site conditions, but considered not significant because they do not contribute substantially to the permanent loss of that resource regionally. The severity of an impact is the primary determinant of whether or not that impact can be mitigated to a level below significant. 6.2 Vegetation Communities For the purpose of analyzing the significance of impacts to vegetation communities, impacts resulting from grading of the project were considered as direct impacts. 6.2.1 Coastal Sage Scrub and Coyotebrush Scrub Implementation of the project would result in direct impacts to 0.5 acre of the 2.2 acres of coastal sage scrub and coyotebrush scrub within the study area. 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 953-02 l&ASSOCIATESl c.u/,,,u c»>«.i/<» November 26,1997 31 I • Existing Conditions/Biological Resources Report Faraday Avenue Extension • 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. Loss of any amount of this habitat generally is regarded as a significant effect. | 6.2.2 Southern Mixed Chaparral I Implementation of the project would result in direct impacts to a total of 1.6 acres of southern mixed chaparral and disturbed southern mixed chaparral. This represents an incremental reduction of a relatively widespread habitat in the region. No sensitive plant species associated with southern • mixed chaparral were detected. • Because southern mixed chaparral is a widespread and common community type in San Diego County, and because no sensitive plant species were associated with it; this impact is not regarded as a significant effect. • 6.2.3 Scrub Oak Chaparral • Implementation of the project would result in direct impacts to 2.8 acres of scrub oak chaparral. Scrub oak chaparral is not in and of itself considered a sensitive by habitat (i.e., by regulation), • however because it supports large numbers of a sensitive plant species (Nuttall's scrub oak) it would be considered sensitive. I Loss of 2.8 acres of scrub oak chaparral is regarded as a significant effect. m 6.2.4 Annual Grassland Implementation of the project would result in direct impacts to 0.1 acre of annual grassland. • Although typically annual grassland provides foraging habitat for raptors and other sensitive species, in this case the amount is exceedingly small and not part of any extensive similar habitat area. • The loss of annual grassland is not considered a significant effect. • 6.2.5 Southern Coast Live Oak Riparian Forest Implementation of the project would result in the direct impacts to 1.1 acres of southern coast live I oak riparian forest. Southern coast live oak riparian forest is considered a rare habitat by the CNDDB and CDFG. In this instance, disturbance to the habitat also would be regulated by Section 404 of the I I I&ASSOCIATES 953-02 c.n/.r.u c.r».r.iii» November 26,1997 32 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Existing Conditions/Biological Resources Report Faraday Avenue Extension Clean Water Act and Section 1600-1603 of the California Fish and Game Code. These direct impacts thus are a regarded as a significant effect. 6.2.6 Cismontane Alkali Marsh Implementation of the project would result in impacts to 0.1 acre of cismontane alkali marsh. Disturbance of this habitat is regulated by Section 404 of the Clean Water Act and Section 1600-1603 of the California Fish and Game Code. Loss of disturbed wetland is regarded as a significant effect. 6.2.7 Disturbed Wetland Implementation of the project would result in impacts of 0.04 acre of disturbed wetland. Disturbance of this habitat is regulated by Section 404 of the Clean Water Act and Section 1600-1603 of the California Fish and Game Code. Loss of disturbed wetland is regarded as a significant effect. 6.2.8 Ornamental Plantings, Disturbed Habitat and Developed Land Implementation of the project would result in direct impacts to 1.5 acres of ornamental plantings, disturbed habitat and developed land. Typically these habitats have poor value because of the predominance of alien plant species and existing human uses. For this reason, loss of these habitats are not regarded as a significant effect. 6.3 Sensitive Plants Implementation of the proposed project would result in the direct loss of individuals of three sensitive plant species: California adolphia (approximately 25 individuals); summer-holly (approximately 5 individuals); southwestern spiny rush (approximately 50 individuals). These impacts are not considered significant. All three species retain relatively large populations in San Diego County, and representative amounts, greater than 50% in the cases of California adolphia and summer-holly, will be retained within the study area after project construction. 6.4 Sensitive Wildlife Implementation of the proposed project would not result in any direct impacts to any identified locations of sensitive species. However, it is likely that several sensitive species have populations in the areas to be impacted, and that small numbers of the following would be affected directly: southern California rufous-crowned sparrow, orange-throated whiptail, San Diego horned lizard, and northern red-diamond rattlesnake. Other species identified in the general area also could be affected, 953-02 &ASSOC1ATES / c.r».r.iii November 26, 1997 33 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Existing Conditions/Biological Resources Report Faraday Avenue Extension probably indirectly (see below). None of these impacts are considered significant. Impacts to these wildlife species are regarded as less than or not significant for at least one of the following reasons: all or most individuals would be conserved onsite; substantial habitat for the species would be conserved onsite; its habitat is still relatively abundant; and/or the species is still relatively common within its range. The project would not have a substantial adverse effect on the viability and survival of these species in the wild. These species include Cooper's hawk (no known direct impacts, substantial habitat conserved, and species still relatively common), rufous-crowned sparrow (no direct impacts and substantial populations and habitat offsite), San Diego horned lizard, coastal western whiptail and orange-throated whiptail (no known direct impacts and substantial habitat and populations offsite). 6.5 Habitat Linkages/Wildlife Corridors Direct and indirect impacts to habitat linkages and wildlife corridors are regarded as less than significant because although opportunities for wildlife movement will be reduced, no linkages are involved and the effects are local, fragmentary habitat patches, some of which will likely be developed in the near future. 7.0 CONSERVATION AND MITIGATION MEASURES The following conservation and mitigation measures will reduce significant direct effects identified in Section 6.0 to a level less than significant. 7.1 Vegetation Communities 7.1.1 Coastal Sage Scrub Si Covotebrush/Revegetation Mitigation within the City of Carlsbad for direct impacts to coastal sage scrub habitat usually takes the form of offsite habitat acquisition at a ratio of 2 acres acquired for each acre impacted. Therefore in this case, acquisition of 1.0 acre of coastal sage scrub would be required at a location approved by the City and wildlife agencies. This ratio seems to be appropriate given the relatively low quality of the habitat that would be impacted, i.e., that characterized as coyotebrush scrub, and the lack of highly sensitive species including the California gnatcatcher. The City also has a working policy that no coastal sage scrub impact greater than 4.0 acres may be mitigated by habitat acquisition outside of the City of Carlsbad (Chris DeCerbo, personal communication, November 1997). It would appear possible that impacts of this project could be mitigated outside of Carlsbad, if necessary. 953-02 A c.i//.r.i« c.»>.r«n.« November 26, 1997 34 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Existing Conditions/Biological Resources Report Faraday Avenue Extension 7.1.2 Scrub Oak Chaparral Although scrub oak chaparral is not designed a sensitive habitat type as are coastal sage scrub and southern maritime chaparral, its dominance by a fairly sensitive species (Quercus dumosa) suggests that impacts should be considered significant and mitigation is warranted. The loss of 2.8 acres of scrub oak chaparral should be mitigated by the acquisition of scrub habitat within the North County area, preferably in the vicinity of the project site. Acquisition of habitat at a ratio of 1:1, at a site that would contribute to the conservation of either scrub oak chaparral, or Quercus dumosa within another habitat type, would be considered sufficient mitigation. If acquisition of southern maritime chaparral containing populations of other sensitive species is effected to accomplish the scrub oak chaparral mitigation, than a lesser mitigation ratio should be appropriate. 7.1.3 Wetland Habitats Significant impacts to wetland habitats, including southern coast live oak riparian forest, cismontane alkali marsh and disturbed wetland, will be mitigated by the following measures: The total of impacts to wetland habitats is 1.24 acres as follows: southern coast live oak riparian forest 1.1 acres, cismontane alkali marsh 0.1 acre, and disturbed wetland 0.04 acre. Mitigation for wetland habitat impacts should be either: revegetation of 2:1 by area for southern coast live oak riparian forest (i.e., 2.22 acres) with at least 5 coast live oak trees planted for each one removed, and revegetation of southern coast live oak forest, southern willow scrub or alkali marsh for the 0.14 acre of cismontane alkali marsh and disturbed wetland lost at a 1:1 ratio by area (i.e., 0.14 acre); or acquisition and management of high quality wetlands in the North County area at 3:1 by area for southern coast live oak riparian forest (i.e., 3.72 acres), and 1:1 by acre for cismontane alkali marsh and disturbed wetland. The high quality wetlands under the second alternative above may be either southern willow scrub, southern coast live oak riparian forest, cismontane alkali marsh, freshwater marsh or a combination of any of the above. Consideration in adhering to the mitigation ratios also should be given to an acquisition property that provides other ecological benefits including endangered or sensitive species habitat, provision of a habitat connection, additional restoration potential, etc. 7.2 Sensitive Plant Species No significant impacts were identified. 953-02 l&ASSOCIATESl c.iif.,.u c.,).,.n.» November 26,1997 35 I Existing Conditions/Biological Resources Report I Faraday Avenue Extension | 7.3 Sensitive Wildlife Species • No significant impacts were identified. 7.4 Habitat Linkages/Wildlife Corridors No significant impacts were identified. I 8.0 ACKNOWLEDGMENTS ' This report was prepared by DUDEK biologist Harold A. Wier. John W. Brown, Ph.D., and Brock _ A. Ortega conducted the original field work. This was updated by Mr. Wier. Jeff L Thomas assisted • with the wetland delineation field work. Graphics were provided by Martie A. demons; Tonette S. Foster provided word processing. I 9.0 LITERATURE CITED Abrams, L. 1923. Illustrated flora of the Pacific States. Stanford University Press, Stanford, California. I American Ornithologists'Union. 1983. The Check-list of'North American Birds, 6th edition. Allen Press, Lawrence, Kansas. ™ American Ornithologists' Union. 1989. Thirty-seventh Supplement to the American Ornithologists^ Union Check-List of North American Birds. The Auk 106:532-538. Atwood, J. L. 1990. Status review of the California gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica]. Unpublished M technical report, Manomet Bird Observatory, Manomet, Massachusetts. 79 pp. 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 I Soc. Nat. Hist. 18: 229-248. I Bowman, R. H. 1973. Soil Survey, San Diego Area, California, Part /\. United States Department of the Agriculture. 104 pp. + appendices. I 5DEE3 I ^ASSOCIATES 953-02 A c.iif.r.K c.r».r.ni» November 26, 1997 36 I Existing Conditions/Biological Resources Report I Faraday Avenue Extension • Brown, J. W. and W. W, McGuire. 1983. A new subspecies ofEuphyes vestris (Boisduval) from Southern California (Lepidoptera: Hesperiidae). Trans. San Diego Soc. Nat. Hist. 20: 57-68. | • Bury, B. 1971. Status report on California's threatened amphibians and reptiles. California Department of Fish and Game, Inland Fisheries Administrative Report #72-2. • California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG). 1980. At the Crossroads: A Report on the Status of California's Endangered and Rare Fish and Wildlife. State of California Resources Agency, • Sacramento. California. I California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG). 1986. Endangered, Rare, and Threatened Animals of California. State of California Resources Agency, Sacramento, California. I California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG). 1987. Designated Endangered or Rare Plants. Summary list from Section 1904 Fish and Game Code (Native Plant Protection Act). State of California Resources Agency, Sacramento, California. Dudek & Associates, Inc. 1997. Existing Conditions Biological Survey Report for Carlsbad Oaks1 1 1 i\ortn. rreparea ror i ecn-mit, inc. Emmel, T. C. and J. 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. Grinnell, J. and A. Miller. 1944. The distribution of the birds of California. Pacific Coast Avifauna 27: 1- 608. I Hickman, J. C. 1993. The Jepson manual: Higher plants of California. University of California Press, Berkeley. 1400pp. • Holland, R. F. 1986. Preliminary descriptions of the terrestrial natural communities of California. Nongame-Heritage Program, California Department of Fish and Game. 156 pp. | Jones, J. K., Jr., D. C. Carter, H. H. Genoways, R S. Hoffman, and D. W. Rice. 1992. Revised 1 1 1 Checklist of North American Mammals North of Mexico. Occasional Papers of the Museum of Texas Tech University, no. 143. IHMHa:< 953-02 A c.iiffr.K c.r»f»u» November 26, 199/ 67 I Existing Conditions/Biological Resources Report I Faraday Avenue Extension • McGurty, B. M. 1980. Survey and status of endangered and threatened species of reptiles natively occurring in San Diego, California. San Diego Herpetological Society. 8 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. m RECON (Regional Environmental Consultants). 1984. Biology report for Carlsbad Oaks. Remsen, J. V. 1978. Bird species of special concern in California: An annotated list of declining or vulnerable I bird species. Administrative Report No. 78-1. Nongame Wildlife Investigations, Wildlife Management Branch, California Department of Fish and Game. • SANDAG (San Diego Association of Governments). 1988. Draft Comprehensive Species Management Plan for the Least Bell's Vino. Prepared by RECON. 195 pp. + appendices. I SANDAG (San Diego Association of Governments). 1994. Vegetation and sensitive species maps prepared for the North County Wildlife Forum. • 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. I Smith, }. P., Jr., and K. Berg. 1988. California Native Plant Society's Inventory of Rare and Endangered Vascular Plants of California. Special Publication No. 1 (4th Edition), California Native Plant Society, Sacramento, California. 168 pp. ™ Stebbins, R. C. 1985. A field guide to western reptiles and amphibians. Houghton Mifflin Co., Boston, Mass. Stewart, G. R 1971. Rare, endangered, and depleted amphibians and reptiles in California. Herpetology _ 5:29-35. United States Fish and Wildlife Service. 1988. Least Bdl'sVireo Draft Recovery Plan. Portland, Oregon. I I I A c.u/.r.i. c.,»...n.. November 26, I Existing Conditions/Biological Resources Report Faraday Avenue Extension United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 1989. Federal Register, Part 4, Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Animal Notice of Review. 50 CFR Part 17. Department of the • Interior. United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 1990. Federal Register, Part 4, Endangered and • Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Review of Plant Taxa for Listing as Endangered or Threatened ™ Species, Notice of Review. 50 CFR Part 17. Department of the Interior. £ United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 1991. Federal Register, Part 8, Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Animal Candidate Review for Listing as Endangered or Threatened • Species, Proposed Rule. 50 CFR Part 17. Department of the Interior. United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 1993. Federal Register, Part 8, Endangered and • Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Review of Plant Taxa for Listing as Endangered or Threatened ™ Species. 50 CFR Part 17. Vol. 58. No. 188. Department of the Interior. • Unitt, P. A. 1984. Birds of San Diego County. Memoir 13, San Diego Society of Natural History. 287 pp. • Wiggins, I. L 1980. A flora ofBa/a California. Stanford University Press. 1025pp. I Wilbur, S. R, 1973. The red-shouldered hawk in the western United States. Western Birds 4:15-22. •^ Willet, G. 1933. Revised list of birds of southwestern California. Pacific Coast Avifauna 21:1-204. I I I I I I I 953-02 A c.ii/.r.n c>r».r.ii.» November 26,1997 39 O Soil Pit Location VEGETATION TYPES: CSS SMX SOC CBS ORF CAM Coastal Sage Scrub Southern Mixed Chaparral Scrub Oak Chaparral Coyotebrush Scrub Southern Coast Live Oak Riparian Forest * Cismontane Alkali Marsh* DW AGL ORN DH DEV Disturbed Wetland Annual Non-native Grassland Ornamental Planting i i Disturbed Habitat Developed Land NOTE: A lower case'd'in front of a vegetation type indicates that it is disturbed. * ACOE / CDFG Jurisdictional Areas SENSITIVE PLANT SPECIES: Ac Adolphia californica Cd Comarostaphylis diversifolia Jo Juncus acutus NOTE: Numbers indicate individual plant counts at that location.200 Scale in Feet Faraday Avenue Extension - Biological Resources and Wetland Delineation Report Biological Resources Map Proposed Limits of Grading O Soil Pit Location VEGETATION TYPES: CSS SMX SOC CBS ORF CAM ._ \ Coastal Sage Scrub Southern Mixed Chaparral Scrub Oak Chaparral . Coyotebrush Scrub Southern Coast Live Oak Riparian Forest * Cismontane Alkali Marsh * DW AGL ORN DH DEV Disturbed Wetland * Annual Non-native Grassland Ornamental Planting i i Disturbed Habitat ' Developed Land NOTE: A lower case'd'in front of a vegetation type indicates that it is disturbed. * ACOE / CDFG Jurisdictional Areas SENSITIVE PLANT SPECIES: Ac Adolphia califomica Cd Comarostaphylis diversifolia Ja Juncus acutus NOTE: Numbers indicate individual plant counts at that location.200 Scale in Feet Faraday Avenue Extension - Biological Resources and Wetland Delineation Report Biological Resources Map With Proposed Limits of Grading VEGETATION COMMUNITIES WITH SENSITIVE SPECIES AND VERNAL POOLS (Vegetation - Summer, 1995; Species - April 1997) Southern Foredunes (21230) Southern Coastal Bluff Scrub (31200) Coastal Sage Scrub (32500, 32720) Maritime Succulent Scrub (32400) ' Chaparral - (37000,37120,37121, 37200, 37900) ! Southern Maritime Chaparral -' (37C30) '•I Coastal Sage/Chaparral Mix * (37GOO) 1 Grassland J (42000,42110,42200) 1 Southern Coastal Saltmarshs (52120) I Alkali Marsh1 (52300, 52310) I Freshwater Marsh1 (45400, 52400, 52410, 52440) I Riparian Forest1 (61000, 61300, 61310, 61320, 61330) I Riparian Woodland1 (62400) I Riparian Scrub1 (63000, 63300, 63310,63320, 63810,63820) 1 Coast Live Oak Riparian ForestJ (81310) I Oak Woodland -Kndifferentiated1 (71100) NOTE: FOR GENERAL PLANNING, PURPOSES ONLY. FIELD CHECKING ESSENTIAL FOR SPECIFIC PROJECTS. Sensitive species point informationidentified with letter abbreviations. Plant species abbreviations are initalics. See separate table forexplanation of abbreviations used onthe map. ' Coast Live Oak Woodland (71160,71161,71162) Engelmann Oak Woodland (71180,71181,71182) Torrey Pine Forest (83140) I Eucalyptus Woodland1 (11100) j Open Water - Marine: (13110,13111,13112) } Open Water - Estuarine ' (13130,13131,13133) 3 Open Water - Freshwater1 (13140) I Disturbed Wetland1 (11200) Natural Floodchannel/Streambed (13200) ^H Beach ~ (13400) r-x--2 Saltpan and Mudflats ~~;J (13300) \ Disturbed Land (11300) i Agriculture '(18000-18320) I Urban/Developed: (12000) Vernal pool complexes - ---- --------- _. - ----- -------- -»l v*»«Witon InlonnaOon WLcompiled tram numnMi* KMVM* (USCP. Comity of San Divpo MHCO8P. City olCwtabad HUP, Ch> of San Mvcaf BRMP, MWD. Cwnp Pendfeton. and the MHCPt. Uo*t of theee aourcee raited pfanerfly an the tntanxeutun of Mriel photograph* lorvegetation cbuiftcatton. Other hftaeopv vegetation nup» WWB uud •* ancliUry u liutMC* tvvtobto) «/wJ limhMl Umld v«iiltc«ooo» ww* conduced in titnu ituda*. Th* Mrioui mappinfl •ourcu did net u*> th* MRM *»e»t»tk)n ciM*Hic«dM) iy«tMn».Thvrafora, d*U from th* wiou» •OIOCMI ww* •ggnptud or cn>u-w»ft»d lo •d«»»Htc»lkni •ynani that WM b«»ed on Hobnd. Ttw common dBmiiffulkxi »y«u>mtt with th« daultkuU»n «y*tMn tu»d to/ th* M8CP mapping •Mort. V«8«imooo i«rmMMnti tM dm m*p oon«>t*tf of recovering ttw dvuikd w«B>tiinformation (ram ttu ofioirul nuppmg *ourc*i and ineorporatinB v*0aUlion kifofrom UrB^»oO» pn>j.ct Uv«t •wv*y« II.... San EKJo Bench, Ctty of OcM(uId« SPUn. «nd CWA Em*ro*ncy W»l** ttorag* Propel). Th« v«e«Utkm updctu IMM* doo*inlng nMttl-dmu Htolttu Immgo et»nge dauction ptocadun* to identity >Mid> Oul hav*ba«n coAvartad taotn habtlal to non-twMui «»•» (BBricutUM*. urban and nirej land u*ai•nd dictutoad land) alnoa HM original mopping we* don*. H ahoidd be noud thai thtimap dapi"* "gelation tar th* rawiud aavon-clty MHCP atudy atva. TW bcetlon* ot Mix^thn apeciaa wen gethend from Oft*. CaUfamla Natw*J OimnhwCtoU BW« |C»U>M1. Cwnp Pvndlaton. pw*0fMl CMnmunkatlon*. and (kid uneym.