HomeMy WebLinkAboutCT 15-01; Cascada Verde; Biological Resources Technical Report; 2015-10-21
BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES TECHNICAL REPORT
CASCADA VERDE RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT PROJECT
CITY OF CARLSBAD
SAN DIEGO COUNTY, CALIFORNIA
Prepared for:
Lanshire Housing Partners LLC
2633 South Fairfax Avenue
Culver City, California 90232
Contact: Matt Nelson
Prepared by:
LSA Associates, Inc.
703 Palomar Airport Road, Suite 260
Carlsbad, California 92011
(760) 931-5471
LSA Project No. IKN1301
August Revised October 2015
LSA ASSOCIATES, INC. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES TECHNICAL REPORT
AUGUST OCTOBER 2015 CASCADA VERDE RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT PROJECT
CARLSBAD, CALIFORNIA
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION 1.0: SUMMARY OF FINDINGS ......................................................................................... 1
SECTION 2.0: INTRODUCTION ......................................................................................................... 2
2.1 PROJECT DESCRIPTION ....................................................................................................... 2
2.2 BIOLOGICAL STUDY AREA ................................................................................................ 2
SECTION 3.0: METHODS .................................................................................................................... 5
3.1 LITERATURE AND DATABASE REVIEW .......................................................................... 5
3.2 GENERAL BIOLOGICAL RECONNAISSANCE SURVEY ................................................. 5
3.3 FOCUSED PLANT SURVEYS ................................................................................................ 6
3.4 COASTAL CALIFORNIA GNATCATCHER FOCUSED SURVEY ..................................... 6
3.5 JURISDICTIONAL DELINEATION ....................................................................................... 6
SECTION 4.0: RESULTS AND DISCUSSION .................................................................................... 8
4.1 VEGETATION COMMUNITIES ............................................................................................ 8
4.1.1 Riparian Woodland ...................................................................................................... 8
4.1.2 Coastal Sage Scrub ....................................................................................................... 8
4.1.3 Native Grassland ........................................................................................................ 10
4.1.4 Nonnative Grassland .................................................................................................. 10
4.1.5 Eucalyptus Woodland................................................................................................. 10
4.1.6 Landscape/Ornamental ............................................................................................... 10
4.1.7 Disturbed Land ........................................................................................................... 10
4.1.8 Developed ................................................................................................................... 10
4.2 TOPOGRAPHY ...................................................................................................................... 10
4.3 SOILS ...................................................................................................................................... 11
4.4 SPECIAL-STATUS SPECIES ................................................................................................ 11
4.4.1 Special-Status Plants .................................................................................................. 12
4.4.2 Special-Status Wildlife ............................................................................................... 12
4.5 USFWS CRITICAL HABITAT AREAS ................................................................................ 14
4.6 WILDLIFE CORRIDORS ...................................................................................................... 14
4.7 AQUATIC RESOURCES ....................................................................................................... 14
SECTION 5.0: IMPACT DETERMINATIONS .................................................................................. 17
5.1 PROJECT-SPECIFIC IMPACTS ........................................................................................... 17
5.1.1 Permanent Impacts ..................................................................................................... 17
5.1.2 Temporary Impacts..................................................................................................... 17
5.2 VEGETATION COMMUNITIES .......................................................................................... 17
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5.3 SPECIAL-STATUS PLANT SPECIES .................................................................................. 19
5.4 SPECIAL-STATUS WILDLIFE SPECIES ............................................................................ 19
5.4.1 Special-Status Invertebrate Species ............................................................................ 19
5.4.2 Special-Status Avian Species and Nesting Birds ....................................................... 19
5.4.3 Special-Status Mammal Species ................................................................................ 19
5.5 USFWS CRITICAL HABITAT AREAS ................................................................................ 19
5.6 WILDLIFE MOVEMENT CORRIDORS .............................................................................. 20
5.7 AQUATIC RESOURCES ....................................................................................................... 20
5.7.1 Avoidance and Minimization of Jurisdictional Impacts ............................................. 20
5.7.2 Permanent and Temporary Impacts ............................................................................ 20
SECTION 6.0: MITIGATION AND AVOIDANCE, AND MINIMIZATION OF IMPACTS TO
BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES .............................................................................................................. 22
6.1 VEGETATION COMMUNITIES .......................................................................................... 22
6.2 POTENTIALLY JURISDICTIONAL AREAS ...................................................................... 23
6.3 POTENTIAL ON-SITE CREATION, RESTORATION, AND ENHANCEMENT .............. 23
6.4 WILDLIFE CONSTRAINTS .................................................................................................. 24
6.5 MITIGATION MEASURES ................................................................................................... 24
SECTION 7.0: REFERENCES ............................................................................................................ 26
FIGURES
Figure 1: Project Location ...................................................................................................................... 3
Figure 2: HMP Preserve Location .......................................................................................................... 4
Figure 3: Vegetation Map ....................................................................................................................... 9
Figure 4: Potential Resource Agency Jurisdiction Map ....................................................................... 15
Figure 5: Vegetation Impacts Map ....................................................................................................... 18
Figure 6: Potential Resource Agency Jurisdiction Impacts Map.......................................................... 21
TABLES
Table A: Vegetation Communities within the BSA ............................................................................... 8
Table B: Criteria for Evaluating Special-Status Plant and Wildlife Species Potential for
Occurrence (PFO) .......................................................................................................................... 12
Table C: Potential Corps and RWQCB Jurisdictional Waters of the U.S. within the BSA ................. 16
Table D: Potential CDFW Jurisdiction within the BSA ....................................................................... 16
Table E: Anticipated Impacts by Vegetation Community Type (Acres) ............................................. 17
Table F: Potential Impacts to Corps and RWQCB Jurisdictional Waters of the U.S. .......................... 20
Table G: Potential Impacts to CDFW Jurisdiction (acres) ................................................................... 20
Table H: HMP-Required Mitigation for Impacts to Vegetation Communities .................................... 22
Table I: Mitigation for Impacts to Potentially Jurisdictional Areas ..................................................... 23
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APPENDICES
APPENDIX A: Plant Species Observed List
APPENDIX B: Wildlife Species Observed List
APPENDIX C: Coastal California Gnatcatcher Focused Survey Report
APPENDIX D: Jurisdiction Delineation Report
APPENDIX E: Special-Status Species Occurrence Table
APPENDIX F: Site Photographs
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SECTION 1.0: SUMMARY OF FINDINGS
Lanshire Housing Partners LLC (Lanshire) proposes to construct 36 condominium dwelling units on
a vacant and undeveloped 3.55-acre parcel within a canyon located north of Alicante Road, between
Altisma Way and Altiva Place in Carlsbad, San Diego County, California. Lanshire contracted LSA
Associates, Inc. (LSA) to conduct a general biological resources survey, vegetation mapping, coastal
California gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica californica) focused surveys, and a formal jurisdictional
delineation for this project. The surveys were conducted between the summer of 2013 and fall 2014.
One special-status plant species, San Diego marsh-elder (Iva hayesiana), was observed during the
biological surveys. No other special-status plant species have a moderate or higher potential to occur
within the Biological Study Area (BSA). Although seven special-status animal species have the
potential to occur within the BSA, none was detected during biological surveys.
Construction of the Cascada Verde Residential Development Project (project) is expected to affect
approximately 0.65 acre of United States Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) jurisdiction and 1.19
acres of California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) jurisdiction. The project is expected to
affect the following vegetation community types: riparian woodland, coastal sage scrub, native
grassland, nonnative grassland, eucalyptus woodland, landscape/ornamental, and disturbed land.
Implementation of the mitigation measures listed at the end of the report will contribute to the
minimization of impacts to special-status species and habitat, and potentially jurisdictional areas.
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SECTION 2.0: INTRODUCTION
2.1 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Lanshire proposes to construct 36 condominium dwelling units on a vacant and undeveloped 3.55-
acre parcel within a canyon located north of Alicante Road, between Altisma Way and Altiva Place in
Carlsbad, San Diego County, California (Figure 1).
The original design proposed the construction of 52 condominium units with a grading concept that
mostly filled and encroached into the site’s drainage course. That design was the subject of PRE 13-
04 and generated a City of Carlsbad (City) response letter dated February 19, 2013. Since the receipt
of that letter, Lanshire has pursued various site design and product type concepts along with follow-
up meetings with City staff (Planning, Engineering, Carlsbad Water District, Leucadia Waste Water
District, Fire Prevention, and Housing), the Corps, the CDFW, the San Diego Regional Water Quality
Control Board (RWQCB), and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) to assess a revised
project that avoids impacts to sensitive biological resources
Specifically, the current design minimizes creek drainage encroachment to the greatest extent
feasible.
2.2 BIOLOGICAL STUDY AREA
The Biological Study Area (BSA) is located within an undeveloped canyon surrounded by residential
development. An unnamed intermittent stream course conveys flows from north to south through the
canyon. The majority of the BSA consists of riparian woodland. The site also contains eucalyptus
(Eucalyptus sp.) woodland; nonnative grassland; coastal sage scrub; and a small patch of native
grassland. Remnant developed areas containing brick flooring, retaining walls, fire pits, and awnings
are scattered throughout the southern portion of the BSA, under the riparian woodland canopy.
The BSA is located within the South Coast subregion of the Southwestern California region of the
California Floristic Province and within the Carlsbad Hydrologic Unit (HU) (Carlsbad Watershed).
Specifically, the project is located in Sections 25 and 36, Township 12 South, and Range 4 West of
the United States Geological Survey (USGS) Encinitas, California 7.5-minute topographic
quadrangle map.
The BSA is located outside of any City of Carlsbad Habitat Management Plan (HMP) Preserve area;
however, an existing Hardline Preserve area is located north of and adjacent to the BSA (Figure 2).
The BSA is located entirely outside of the coastal zone.
Project Location
LEGEND
Project Location
SOURCE: USGS 7.5' Quad. (Encinitas, 1975; Rancho Santa Fe, 1983)
R:\IKN1301\GIS\ProjectLocation.mxd (8/19/2015)
FIGURE 1
Cascada Verde ResidentialDevelopment ProjectProject Location
0 1000 2000
FEET
SanDiegoCounty
ÃÃ56
ÃÃ78
ÃÃ76
ProjectLocation
§¨¦805
§¨¦15
§¨¦5
Project Vicinity
ALTIVA PLACEALICANTE ROAD
A
L
TI
S
MA
WA
Y
SOURCE: Aerial - City of Carlsbad (2/2012); Hofman Planning & Engineering (2015); Science Base (2015)
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FIGURE 2
Cascada Verde ResidentialDevelopment ProjectHMP Preserve Location
0 75 150
FEET
LEGEND
Biological Study Area
Carlsbad HMP Preserve
Existing Hardline
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SECTION 3.0: METHODS
3.1 LITERATURE AND DATABASE REVIEW
Prior to conducting the field surveys, LSA reviewed existing documentation relevant to the BSA.
LSA reviewed the most recent records of the CDFW California Natural Diversity Data Base
(CNDDB 2014) and the California Native Plant Society’s Electronic Inventory of Rare and
Endangered Vascular Plants of California (CNPS 2014) for the quadrangle containing and
surrounding the BSA (i.e., Encinitas, California USGS 7.5-minute quadrangle). The CNDDB
contains records of reported occurrences of Federal- and/or State-listed species, proposed endangered
or threatened species, California Species of Special Concern (SSC), or otherwise special-status
species or habitats that may occur within or in the vicinity of the project area.
3.2 GENERAL BIOLOGICAL RECONNAISSANCE SURVEY
LSA biologists Dan Rosie and Jaime Morales conducted a general biological reconnaissance survey
on May 7, 2013, that included the following elements:
Mapping of habitat types;
A directed search for special-status plant species that potentially could occur within the BSA;
A general inventory of plant and wildlife species;
Evaluation of suitability of habitat for special-status resources that may be identified during the
literature search;
Preliminary identification of areas that may be considered wetlands, waters of the U.S., or
streambeds as defined by the Corps and the CDFW; and
Notes on other pertinent features or conditions of the site and adjacent lands.
All plant species observed within the BSA were recorded and are included as Appendix A. LSA
identified and mapped on aerial photographs plant communities within the project area. The mapped
plant communities were digitized using Geographic Information System (GIS) software, and acreages
were calculated based on the vegetation types within the BSA. Plant communities were determined in
accordance with the categories described in Holland (1986) and Oberbauer (2008). Plant
nomenclature follows that of The Jepson Manual: Higher Plants of California (Hickman 1993).
Special-status plant species with a potential to occur within the project area are described below in
Section 4.4.1.
All wildlife observed and wildlife sign detected, including tracks, scat, carcasses, burrows,
excavations, and vocalizations, were recorded and are included as Appendix B. Additional survey
time was spent in those habitats most likely to be utilized by wildlife or in habitats with the potential
to support State- and/or federally-listed or proposed species. Notes were made on the general habitat
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types, species observed, and the conditions of the site. Special-status wildlife species with a potential
to occur within the project area are described in Section 4.4.2.
LSA biologist Scott Batchelder and Mr. Morales conducted a site visit on October 14, 2014, to assess
site conditions relative to the original survey. Mr. Batchelder and Mr. Morales used the original
vegetation and jurisdictional delineation maps to document any changes from previous surveys. Plant
and wildlife species not observed in the original survey were documented and are included in
Appendices A and B.
3.3 FOCUSED PLANT SURVEYS
Due to the low potential for occurrence of special-status plant species, no focused plant surveys were
conducted for the project.
3.4 COASTAL CALIFORNIA GNATCATCHER FOCUSED SURVEY
On August 12, 20, and 27, 2013, LSA Associate/Biologist Ingri Quon conducted three protocol-level
coastal California gnatcatcher surveys. These surveys were conducted a minimum of 7 days apart in
accordance with United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) survey protocols (USFWS 1997)
for lands within an active Natural Community Conservation Planning (NCCP) area. During each
survey, Ms. Quon walked slowly along the edge of and through potential coastal California
gnatcatcher habitat, listening and looking for this species. Per protocol guidelines, taped recordings of
this species were played periodically along the survey route.
Surveys were conducted pursuant to USFWS Permit TE-777965-10 (March 22, 2013–March 21,
2017) and a letter permit from the CDFW attached to Scientific Collecting Permit SC-000777
covering conditions for research on listed birds (November 29, 2012–January 31, 2017).
Information was recorded on the survey start and stop times, weather conditions, and wildlife species
observed, including the presence of any brown-headed cowbirds (Molothrus ater), a nest parasite of
many passerine bird species. If coastal California gnatcatcher were detected, data would include the
number of individuals, approximate age, sex, color band information, and behavior (e.g., vocalization,
foraging behavior, and/or nesting behavior). The results of these surveys are presented in a letter
report titled Coastal California Gnatcatcher Protocol Survey Results: Via Altisma Project, City of
Carlsbad, San Diego County prepared by LSA (2013a). A copy of the report is included as Appendix
C of this report.
3.5 JURISDICTIONAL DELINEATION
Mr. Rosie and Mr. Morales performed the fieldwork associated with a jurisdictional delineation on
May 7, 2013. LSA prepared a field map of the area to be surveyed using a 2012 aerial photograph
base at a scale of 1 inch = 80 feet. The BSA was surveyed on foot, and all areas of potential
jurisdiction were evaluated according to Corps and CDFW criteria. Data were recorded using a
Global Positioning System (GPS) unit with sub-meter accuracy and directly on the field map,
particularly where GPS reception was limited due to dense tree canopies.
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LSA evaluated areas supporting hydrology or species of plant life potentially indicative of wetlands
according to routine wetland delineation procedures described in the Regional Supplement to the
Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual: Arid West Region (Version 2.0) (Regional
Supplement) (Corps 2008). Representative sample points were selected and examined in the field in
those areas where wetland jurisdiction was in question or needed to be confirmed. At each sample
point, the dominant and subdominant plant species were identified and their wetland indicator status
(Lichvar and Kartesz 2009) noted. A small sample pit (approximately 12–20 inches deep) was dug at
each point in order to examine soil characteristics and composition. Soil matrix colors were classified
according to the Munsell Soil Color Charts (Munsell Color 2000). Hydrological conditions, including
any surface inundation, saturated soils, groundwater levels, and/or other wetland hydrology
indicators, were recorded. General site characteristics were also noted. Standard data forms were
completed for each sample point. The results of the jurisdictional delineation are presented in a report
titled Jurisdictional Delineation Report: Ikon Limited – Carlsbad Parcel, City of Carlsbad, San
Diego County, California prepared by LSA (2013b). A copy of the report is included as Appendix D
of this report.
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SECTION 4.0: RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
4.1 VEGETATION COMMUNITIES
The BSA supports a variety of vegetation communities totaling approximately 3.55 acres. General
vegetation communities and other land uses observed during the surveys include riparian woodland,
coastal sage scrub, native grassland, nonnative grassland, eucalyptus woodland, landscape/
ornamental, disturbed land, and developed. Figure 3 displays the vegetation communities within the
BSA on an aerial photograph. The vegetation communities observed within the BSA are described
below. Plant species observed during the surveys are included as Appendix A. Table A presents the
total acreages of the vegetation communities identified within the BSA.
Table A: Vegetation Communities within the BSA
Vegetation Communities Acreage
Riparian Woodland 1.49
Coastal Sage Scrub 0.25
Native Grassland 0.33
Nonnative Grassland 0.28
Eucalyptus Woodland 0.43
Landscape/Ornamental 0.49
Disturbed Land 0.24
Developed 0.01
Grand Total* 3.55
*Total may not equal sum due to rounding
4.1.1 Riparian Woodland
Riparian woodland vegetation was observed within the unnamed intermittent stream course. Species
observed include a canopy of arroyo willow (Salix lasiolepis) and Brazilian pepper tree (Schinus
terebinthifolius) trees with an understory dominated by sandbar willow (Salix exigua), yellow iris
(Iris pseudacorus), yerba mansa (Anemopsis californica), wild celery (Apium graveolens), broadleaf
cattail (Typha latifolia), and San Diego marsh-elder (Iva hayesiana).
4.1.2 Coastal Sage Scrub
Coastal sage scrub vegetation was observed at the southeastern and northeastern edges of the BSA.
Species observed include California sagebrush (Artemisia californica), California buckwheat
(Eriogonum fasciculatum), black sage (Salvia mellifera), deerweed (Acmispon glaber), sticky
monkeyflower (Mimulus aurentiacus), lemonadeberry (Rhus integrifolia), laurel sumac (Malosma
laurina), and bushmallow (Malacothamnus fasciculatus).
ALTIVA PLACEALICANTE ROAD
A
L
TI
S
M
A
WA
Y
SOURCE: Aerial - City of Carlsbad (2/2012); Hofman Planning & Engineering (2015)
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FIGURE 3
Cascada Verde ResidentialDevelopment ProjectVegetation Map
0 50 100
FEET
LEGEND
Biological Study Area
Vegetation Types
Coastal Sage Scrub
Developed
Disturbed
Eucalyptus
Native Grassland
Non-Native Grassland
Ornamental
Riparian Woodland
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4.1.3 Native Grassland
Native grassland was observed at the northeastern corner of the BSA between patches of coastal sage
scrub. Species observed include purple needlegrass (Nassella pulchra), blue eyed grass (Sisyrinchium
bellum), deerweed, and chalk dudleya (Dudleya pulverulenta).
4.1.4 Nonnative Grassland
Nonnative grassland was observed at the northern half of the BSA within a strip located east of and
adjacent to the riparian woodland. Species observed include ripgut grass (Bromus diandrus), sweet
fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), purple false brome (Brachypodium distachyon), petty spurge
(Euphorbia peplus), wild oat (Avena fatua), black mustard (Brassica nigra), Italian thistle (Carduus
pycnocephalus), red brome (Bromus rubens), and soft chess (Bromus hordeaceus).
4.1.5 Eucalyptus Woodland
Eucalyptus woodland is present along the northwestern edge of the BSA, west of and adjacent to the
riparian woodland. It consists of mature eucalyptus trees.
4.1.6 Landscape/Ornamental
Patches of ornamental vegetation are present throughout the BSA. Ornamental vegetation includes
trees and shrubs such as pine trees (Pinus spp.), pepper trees (Schinus spp.), oleander (Nerium
oleander), and Mexican fan palm (Washingtonia robusta), which are typically associated with rural
residences, commercial properties, roadsides, and other developed areas. Additionally, two
ornamental western sycamore (Platanus racemosa) trees were present adjacent to a residence far from
a natural water source.
4.1.7 Disturbed Land
Disturbed land refers to areas dominated by nonnative vegetation subject to repeated disturbance from
foot traffic or vehicle access. Species observed within this designation include ripgut grass, red
brome, wild oat, black mustard, Italian thistle, and soft chess. At one time, the property was used for
weddings and other celebrations, and vestiges of the past use litter the site.
4.1.8 Developed
The developed area within the BSA consists of a paved driveway.
4.2 TOPOGRAPHY
Topography within the BSA varies from relatively flat along the canyon bottom to steep slopes at the
edges of the canyon.
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4.3 SOILS
The Soil Survey for the San Diego Area, California, Part I (Soil Conservation Service 1973)
Encinitas, California quadrangle identifies and describes the soil expected to correspond to the
drainage within the BSA as Exchequer rocky silt loam on 9 to 30 percent slopes (ExE), a well-drained
silt loam that formed in material weathered from hard metabasic rock. Salina clay loam on 2 to 9
percent slopes (SbC) is mapped in the southwestern corner of the BSA.
4.4 SPECIAL-STATUS SPECIES
The following information is a list of abbreviations used to help determine the significance of special-
status biological resources potentially occurring within the BSA.
US: Federal Classifications
FE Taxa listed as Endangered.
FT Taxa listed as Threatened.
FPE Taxa proposed for listing as Endangered.
FPT Taxa proposed for listing as Threatened.
FPD Taxa proposed for delisting.
FC Candidate for listing as Threatened or Endangered.
CA: State Classifications
SE Taxa State-listed as Endangered.
ST Taxa State-listed as Threatened.
SR Taxa State-listed as Rare.
SCE Candidate for State-listing as Endangered.
SCT Candidate for State-listing as Threatened.
SSC California Species of Special Concern. Refers to animals with vulnerable or seriously
declining populations.
CFP California Fully Protected. Refers to animals protected from take under Fish and Game Code
sections 3511, 4700, 5050, and 5515.
SA Special Animal. Refers to any other animal monitored by the Natural Diversity Data Base,
regardless of its legal or protection status.
SP Special Plant. Refers to any other plant monitored by the Natural Diversity Data Base,
regardless of its legal or protection status.
CRPR: California Native Plant Society (CNPS) California Rare Plant Rank (CRPR)
Classifications
1A Plants presumed extinct in California.
1B Plants considered by CNPS to be rare, threatened, or endangered in California and elsewhere.
2B Plants considered by CNPS to be rare, threatened, or endangered in California, but more
common elsewhere.
3 Plants about which more information is needed – a CNPS review list.
4 Plants of limited distribution – a CNPS watch list.
CRPR Extensions
0.1 Seriously endangered in California (greater than 80 percent of occurrences
threatened/high degree and immediacy of threat).
0.2 Fairly endangered in California (20 to 80 percent occurrences threatened).
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0.3 Not very endangered in California (less than 20 percent of occurrences threatened).
Table B lists criteria for evaluating special-status plant and wildlife species potential for occurrence
(PFO).
Table B: Criteria for Evaluating Special-Status Plant and Wildlife Species Potential for
Occurrence (PFO)
PFO Criteria
Absent Species is restricted to habitats or environmental conditions that do not occur within the BSA.
Low Historical records for this species do not exist within the BSA, and/or habitats or environmental
conditions needed to support the species are of poor quality.
Moderate Either a historical record exists of the species within the BSA and marginal habitat exists within
the proposed work areas or the habitat requirements or environmental conditions associated with
the species occur within the proposed work areas, but no historical records exist within the BSA.
High Both a historical record exists of the species and the habitat requirements and environmental
conditions associated with the species occur within the BSA.
Present Species was detected within or near the BSA during project surveys.
Each special-status plant and wildlife species with the potential to be present in the project vicinity is
discussed in Appendix E.
4.4.1 Special-Status Plants
The results of the literature review indicate the potential occurrence of 9 species listed as Threatened
or Endangered at the Federal and/or State level (hereafter referred to as listed species) and 25 other
special-status plant species. Based on the results of the on-site assessment of the BSA, of these 34
special-status plant species, 1 species, San Diego marsh-elder (CRPR Rank 2B.2), was determined to
be present, as it was observed within the BSA during the surveys.
4.4.2 Special-Status Wildlife
The results of the literature review indicate the potential occurrence of 10 listed species and 17 other
special-status animal species. Based on the results of the on-site assessment of the BSA, 7 of these 27
special-status animal species have a moderate or higher potential of occurring within the BSA due to
the presence of suitable habitat. These species include monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus), coastal
California gnatcatcher, least Bell’s vireo (Vireo bellii pusillus), silver-haired bat (Lasionycteris
noctivagans), western red bat (Lasiurus blossevillii), hoary bat (Lasiurus cinereus), and western
yellow bat (Lasiurus xanthinus). Coastal California gnatcatcher is federally-listed as threatened and
least Bell’s vireo is federally- and State-listed as endangered. Western red bat and western yellow bat
are considered California Species of Special Concern. Monarch butterfly, silver-haired bat, and hoary
bat are considered Special Animals by the CDFW. No special-status animal species were observed or
otherwise detected in the BSA during the surveys.
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LSA conducted focused protocol-level surveys for coastal California gnatcatcher (discussed in
Section 3.4). Focused surveys for the remaining species may be necessary to determine their presence
or absence definitively.
4.4.2.1: Monarch Butterfly (Danaus plexippus) SA. Monarch butterfly has a MODERATE
potential to occur within the BSA. The eucalyptus trees located along the western edge of the BSA
provide suitable roosting habitat for this species. However, no individuals of this species were
detected during biological surveys and the CNDDB lists no records of occurrence for this species
within one mile of the BSA.
4.4.2.2: Coastal California Gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica californica) FT, SSC. Coastal
California gnatcatcher has a MODERATE potential to forage and nest within coastal sage scrub
habitat present in the BSA. LSA conducted protocol presence/absence surveys for this species in
2013. Although suitable habitat is present within the BSA and the CNDDB lists records of this
species occurring nearby, no coastal California gnatcatchers were detected during the surveys. A copy
of the survey report titled Coastal California Gnatcatcher Protocol Survey Results: Via Altisma
Project, City of Carlsbad, San Diego County prepared by LSA (2013a) is included as Appendix C of
this report.
4.4.2.3: Least Bell’s Vireo (Vireo bellii pusillus) FE, SE. Least Bell’s vireo has a MODERATE
potential to forage and nest within the riparian woodland habitat present in the BSA. Although this
species was not detected during the surveys conducted in 2013 and 2014, and the CNDDB lists no
records of occurrence within one mile of the BSA, habitat suitable to support this species is present
on site.
4.4.2.4: Silver-haired Bat (Lasionycteris noctivagans) SA. Silver-haired bat has a MODERATE
potential to roost and forage within the riparian woodland habitat present in BSA. Although this
species was not detected during the surveys conducted in 2013 and 2014, and the CNDDB lists no
records of occurrence within one mile of the BSA, habitat suitable to support this species is present
on site.
4.4.2.5: Western Red Bat (Lasiurus blossevillii) SSC. Western red bat has a MODERATE
potential to roost and forage within the riparian woodland habitat present in BSA. Although this
species was not detected during the surveys conducted in 2013 and 2014, and the CNDDB lists no
records of occurrence within one mile of the BSA, habitat suitable to support this species is present
on site.
4.4.2.6: Hoary Bat (Lasiurus cinereus) SA. Hoary bat has a MODERATE potential to roost and
forage within the riparian woodland habitat present in BSA. Although this species was not detected
during the surveys conducted in 2013 and 2014, and the CNDDB lists no records of occurrence
within one mile of the BSA, habitat suitable to support this species is present on site.
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4.4.2.7: Western Yellow Bat (Lasiurus xanthinus) SSC. Western yellow bat has a MODERATE
potential to roost and forage within the riparian woodland habitat and Mexican fan palm trees present
in BSA. Although this species was not detected during the surveys conducted in 2013 and 2014, and
the CNDDB lists no records of occurrence within one mile of the BSA, habitat suitable to support this
species is present on site.
4.5 USFWS CRITICAL HABITAT AREAS
Critical habitat for coastal California gnatcatcher is located approximately 2,200 feet north and 5,000
feet south of the BSA.
4.6 WILDLIFE CORRIDORS
The majority of the BSA could potentially be used as a migration corridor for wildlife species. The
BSA connects to undeveloped strips of land to the north and northeast and a large undeveloped area
to the east.
4.7 AQUATIC RESOURCES
An unnamed intermittent stream course conveys flows from north to south through the canyon within
the BSA. The drainage conveys flows in the northern portion of the BSA via a natural channel to an
elevated earthen road crossing that includes a 36-inch diameter culvert. The drainage in the southern
portion of the BSA consists of various previously-excavated braided channels that convey most flows
to a 72-inch diameter culvert at Alicante Road and into the local storm drain system. Several culvert
outlets (presumably storm drain outlets) are located at the southern portion of the site. Additionally,
several unauthorized landscape drains outlet into the channel throughout the site. These outlets
provide additional water sources that support the wetlands hydrology.
The unnamed intermittent stream course is tributary to San Marcos Creek, Batiquitos Lagoon, and
ultimately the Pacific Ocean (a Traditional Navigable Water [TNW] of the U.S.). Because of the
direct connection with the Pacific Ocean, this feature is subject to Corps jurisdiction to the Ordinary
High-Water Mark (OHWM) and adjacent wetlands. The entire area mapped as wetlands meets all
three criteria for wetland waters of the U.S. as defined by the Corps: wetland hydrology, hydric soils,
and dominance of hydrophytic plant species. Riparian woodland vegetation associated with this
drainage feature, including streambed and banks, is subject to CDFW jurisdiction.
The BSA is not within the 100-year floodplain. Functions and values for this feature were determined
to have a moderate to high significance in terms of resources. Figure 4 depicts the location of this
feature and extent of resource agency jurisdiction. Further information about the aquatic resources
present within the BSA is presented in a report titled Jurisdictional Delineation Report: Ikon Limited
– Carlsbad Parcel, City of Carlsbad, San Diego County, California prepared by LSA (2013b). A
copy of the report is included as Appendix D of this report.
Tables C and D display the total acreages of potential Corps/ RWQCB and CDFW jurisdiction
identified within the BSA, respectively.
ALTIVA PLACEALICANTE ROAD
A
L
TI
S
M
A
WA
Y
SOURCE: Aerial - City of Carlsbad (2/2012); Hofman Planning & Engineering (2015)
R:\IKN1301\GIS\JD_BTR.mxd (8/19/2015)
FIGURE 4
Cascada Verde ResidentialDevelopment ProjectPotentially Jurisdictional Areas
0 50 100
FEET
LEGEND
Biological Study Area
Potential Jurisdictional Areas
CDFW Streambed/Banks and Riparian Vegetation
Corps Wetland Waters of the U.S.
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Table C: Potential Corps and RWQCB Jurisdictional Waters of the U.S. within the BSA
Feature
Linear
Feet
Wetland
Waters (Acres)
Non-Wetland
Waters (Acres)
Total Corps/RWQCB
Jurisdiction (Acres)
Drainage and
Associated Terraces 736 1.01 0 1.01
Table D: Potential CDFW Jurisdiction within the BSA
Feature
Streambed/Banks and Riparian Vegetation
(Acres)
Total CDFW Jurisdiction
(Acres)
Drainage and Associated
Terraces 1.56 1.56
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SECTION 5.0: IMPACT DETERMINATIONS
5.1 PROJECT-SPECIFIC IMPACTS
Construction of this project would result in temporary disturbance and/or permanent loss of special-
status vegetation communities. In addition, temporary disturbance and/or permanent loss could occur to
special-status plant and wildlife species.
5.1.1 Permanent Impacts
Permanent loss involves long-term impacts associated with permanent features such as
condominiums, roads, a bridge, and other miscellaneous features.
5.1.2 Temporary Impacts
Temporary disturbance includes short-term impacts that will occur during construction, such as
grading and personnel/equipment access.
5.2 VEGETATION COMMUNITIES
Table E outlines the temporary and permanent impacts anticipated to occur to each vegetation
community type/land use as a result of project-related activities. Figure 5 displays the impacts to
vegetation communities within the BSA on an aerial photograph.
Table E: Anticipated Impacts by Vegetation Community Type (Acres)
Vegetation Community Temporary Permanent Total
Riparian Woodland 0.16 0.96 1.11
Coastal Sage Scrub 0.09 0.19 0.28
Native Grassland 0.01 0.32 0.33
Nonnative Grassland 0.07 0.22 0.29
Eucalyptus Woodland 0.07 0.49 0.57
Landscape/Ornamental 0.14 0.28 0.42
Disturbed Land 0.04 0.19 0.22
Developed 0.04 0.00 0.04
Total* 0.60 2.66 3.26
*Total may not equal sum due to rounding
ALTIVA PLACEALICANTE ROAD
A
L
TI
S
M
A
WA
Y
SOURCE: Aerial - City of Carlsbad (2/2012); Hofman Planning & Engineering (2015)
R:\IKN1301\GIS\Veg_Impacts_BTR.mxd (8/24/2015)
FIGURE 5
Cascada Verde ResidentialDevelopment ProjectVegetation Impacts
0 50 100
FEET
LEGEND
Biological Study Area
Permanent Impacts
Temporary Impacts
Vegetation Types
Coastal Sage Scrub
Developed
Disturbed
Eucalyptus
Native Grassland
Non-Native Grassland
Ornamental
Riparian Woodland
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5.3 SPECIAL-STATUS PLANT SPECIES
Construction activities will affect special-status plant species. San Diego marsh-elder was observed
within the BSA during the general reconnaissance survey. This species will be affected by project-
related activities. No other special-status plant species were observed during surveys. Furthermore,
other than San Diego marsh-elder, no other special-status plant species had a moderate or higher
potential of occurring within the BSA.
5.4 SPECIAL-STATUS WILDLIFE SPECIES
5.4.1 Special-Status Invertebrate Species
No special-status invertebrate species were observed during survey; however, monarch butterfly has a
MODERATE potential to occur within the BSA. The eucalyptus woodland located along the
northwestern edge of the BSA provides suitable roosting habitat for this species. Removal of the
eucalyptus woodland could potentially affect monarch butterfly directly or indirectly through loss of
suitable roosting habitat.
5.4.2 Special-Status Avian Species and Nesting Birds
No special-status avian species were observed during general and protocol surveys; however, coastal
California gnatcatcher and least Bell’s vireo both have a MODERATE potential to occur within the
BSA based on the presence of suitable habitat. Impacts to coastal sage scrub and riparian woodland
have the potential to affect coastal California gnatcatcher and least Bell’s vireo, respectively, directly
or indirectly through the loss of suitable foraging and nesting habitat. Additionally, project-related
activities may cause both temporary and permanent impacts to foraging and/or nesting habitat for
avian species that are not considered special-status, but are covered under the Migratory Bird Treaty
Act (MBTA).
In order to avoid and minimize impacts to nesting birds, a qualified biologist should conduct a nesting
bird survey no more than 48 hours prior to vegetation-clearing activities if project activities are
conducted during the bird breeding season (February 1 through September 15).
5.4.3 Special-Status Mammal Species
No special-status mammal species were observed during surveys; however, silver-haired bat, western
red bat, Hoary bat, and western yellow bat have a MODERATE potential to occur within the BSA
based on the presence of suitable habitat. Impacts to riparian woodland and Mexican fan palm trees
have the potential to affect these species directly or indirectly through the loss of suitable foraging
and roosting habitat.
5.5 USFWS CRITICAL HABITAT AREAS
No designated critical habitat will be affected by proposed project activities.
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5.6 WILDLIFE MOVEMENT CORRIDORS
The project is expected to affect wildlife movement due to a narrowing of the drainage corridor.
Although the project design includes double 9-foot-wide by 5-foot-high box culverts under a 31-foot-
long driveway crossing, which will enable wildlife to move within the longitudinal extent of the
drainage, much of the movement corridor will be narrower than its pre-construction state.
Additionally, because storm water will be concentrated into a narrower drainage, thus likely
increasing the rate of water flow, terrestrial wildlife movement may be further affected.
5.7 AQUATIC RESOURCES
Tables F and G display the total acreages of potential impacts to Corps/RWQCB and CDFW
jurisdiction identified within the BSA, respectively. Figure 6 depicts the extent of impacts to resource
agency jurisdiction within the BSA.
Table F: Potential Impacts to Corps and RWQCB Jurisdictional Waters of the U.S.
Feature
Linear
Feet
Wetland Waters
(Acres)
Non-Wetland
Waters (Acres)
Total Corps
Jurisdiction (Acres) Temporary Permanent Temporary Permanent Temporary Permanent Temporary Permanent Drainage and
Associated Terraces 121 301 0.15 0.49 0 0 0.15 0.49
Table G: Potential Impacts to CDFW Jurisdiction (acres)
Feature Streambed/Banks and Riparian Vegetation Total CDFW
Jurisdiction Temporary Permanent
Drainage and Associated Terraces 0.25 0.95 1.19
5.7.1 Avoidance and Minimization of Jurisdictional Impacts
The project design team, in consultation with LSA and using the mapped limits of jurisdictional
resources, worked to minimize impacts to jurisdictional areas to the greatest practical extent.
Additionally, Best Management Practices (BMPs) will be installed throughout the project where
applicable to prevent off-site sedimentation.
5.7.2 Permanent and Temporary Impacts
Permanent and temporary impacts to jurisdictional areas will occur as a result of project-related
activities. Permanent loss involves long-term impacts associated with permanent features such as
condominiums, roads, a bridge, and other miscellaneous features. Temporary disturbance includes
short-term impacts that will occur during construction, such as grading and personnel/equipment access.
ALTIVA PLACEALICANTE ROAD
A
L
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S
M
A
WA
Y
SOURCE: Aerial - City of Carlsbad (2/2012); Hofman Planning & Engineering (2015)
R:\IKN1301\GIS\JD_Impacts_BTR.mxd (8/24/2015)
FIGURE 6
Cascada Verde ResidentialDevelopment ProjectJurisdictional Impacts
LEGEND
Biological Study Area
Permanent Impacts
Temporary Impacts
Potential Jurisdictional Areas
CDFW Streambed/Banks and Riparian Vegetation
Corps Wetland Waters of the U.S.
0 50 100
FEET
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SECTION 6.0: MITIGATION AND AVOIDANCE, AND
MINIMIZATION OF IMPACTS TO BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES
6.1 VEGETATION COMMUNITIES
All project-related impacts will occur in areas outside HMP Preserve areas. Table H displays the
appropriate mitigation ratios (as described in the HMP) and anticipated mitigation totals for impacts
to vegetation communities.
Table H: HMP-Required Mitigation for Impacts to Vegetation Communities
Vegetation
Community
HMP-Required
Mitigation Ratio
Impact
Area
(acres)
Anticipated Mitigation
Requirement (acres)
HMP
Habitat
Group3
Riparian
Woodland
No net loss goal
(mitigation ratio varies by
type of replacement
habitat) 4
1.11 3.33TBD
A
Native Grassland 3:1 0.33 0.99 B
Unoccupied
Coastal Sage
Scrub
1:1 0.28 0.28
D
Nonnative
Grassland 0.5:1 0.29 0.15 E
Eucalyptus
Woodland
Per-acre in-lieu mitigation
fee 0.57 TBD1 F
Landscape/
Ornamental
Per-acre in-lieu mitigation
fee 0.42 TBD1 F
Disturbed Land Per-acre in-lieu mitigation
fee 0.22 TBD1 F
Developed 0:0 0.04 0 NA
Total2 3.26
4.75 acres plus per-acre in-lieu
mitigation feesTotal mitigation
requirement to be determined
1 Per-acre in-lieu mitigation fee amounts are to be determined by the City Council.
2 Total may not equal sum due to rounding. 3 HMP Habitat Group per HMP Table 11. 4 Impacts to this habitat type are subject to review under Section 404 of the federal Clean Water Act or Section 1600 of the California
Fish and Game Code.
Mitigation for impacts to riparian woodland, native grassland, unoccupied coastal sage scrub, and
nonnative grassland will be satisfied with the purchase of off-site mitigation bank credits or other
mitigation satisfactory to the City. Lanshire will pay in-lieu mitigation fees for impacts to eucalyptus
woodland, landscape/ornamental vegetation, and disturbed land.
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6.2 POTENTIALLY JURISDICTIONAL AREAS
Impacts are expected to occur to areas potentially subject to the jurisdiction of resource agencies;
therefore, consultation and/or acquisition of permits will be required from the RWQCB, CDFW, and
the Corps for this project. Table I displays the appropriate mitigation ratios and anticipated mitigation
totals for impacts to jurisdictional areas. Lanshire proposes a 1.5:1 mitigation ratio for impacts to
jurisdictional areas; however, Lanshire understands that this may not be the final mitigation ratio.
Table I: Mitigation for Impacts to Potentially Jurisdictional Areas
Agency
Proposed
Mitigation Ratio
Impact Area
(acres) 2
Anticipated Mitigation
Requirement (acres)
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Wetland Waters of the U.S.1 1.5:1 0.65 0.98
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Non-
wetland Waters of the U.S.1 1.5:1 0.00 0.00
California Department of Fish and
Wildlife Jurisdictional Area 1.5:1 1.193 1.79
1 Regional Water Quality Control Board mitigation requirements are expected to be identical to U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Waters
of the U.S.
2 Includes temporary and permanent impacts.
23 Total impacts to CDFW Jurisdictional Areas include 1.11 acres of riparian woodland and 0.08 acre of ornamental and disturbed
vegetation associated with the drainage.
Mitigation for impacts to Corps jurisdictional areas will be satisfied by meeting the mitigation
requirement for impacts to CDFW jurisdictional areas, provided the “no net loss” of wetlands
requirement is met. The purchase of mitigation bank credits or other off-site mitigation acceptable to
the City and resource agencies for riparian woodland (mentioned above in Section 6.1) will satisfy the
CDFW mitigation requirement. Additionally, if at least 0.38 acre (0.49 acre of permanent impacts to
wetlands less 0.11 acre of on-site wetland creation) of the riparian woodland mitigation has been
accepted for “wetland creation” by the resource agencies, no additional Corps wetland waters of the
U.S. creation will be necessary to satisfy the “no net loss” requirement. If the mitigation bank credits
are not accepted by the Corps as wetland creation, then Lanshire will be required to obtain
approximately 0.38 acre of wetlands off site.
6.3 POTENTIAL ON-SITE CREATION, RESTORATION, AND
ENHANCEMENT
Approximately 0.11 acre of nonnative grassland, coastal sage scrub, and ornamental vegetation to be
affected by project-related activities associated with drainage realignment will be used for on-site
creation of wetland habitat. Upon completion of grading and construction activities, these areas will
be planted with native wetland container plants, cuttings, and seed.
Approximately 0.16 acre of riparian woodland to be temporarily affected by project-related activities
will be restored. Upon completion of grading and construction activities, these areas will be planted
with wetland container plants, cuttings, and seed.
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Approximately 0.38 acre of riparian woodland within the southern half of the drainage will not be
affected by project-related activities. This land will be enhanced, meaning that all nonnative species
will be removed. LSA anticipates that native vegetation will fill in the voids left by the removed
nonnative vegetation. However, if the voids appear to be greater than that which can be filled by the
existing vegetation, installation of container plants, cuttings, and/or seed is recommended.
A total of 0.65 acre of on-site creation (0.11 acre), restoration (0.16 acre), and enhancement (0.38
acre) would be used to offset anticipated mitigation for impacts to potentially jurisdictional areas.
6.4 WILDLIFE CONSTRAINTS
LSA recommends that clearing and grubbing of vegetation be conducted outside of the bird breeding
season (i.e., between September 16 and February 1). Clearing and grubbing of vegetation during the
bird breeding season may be conducted if a nest survey within the project impact footprint and
appropriate buffer yielding negative results is conducted by a qualified biologist no more than 48
hours prior to the activity.
6.5 MITIGATION MEASURES
In order to minimize impacts to existing biological resources, LSA recommends the following
measures during project implementation:
The contractor should install orange construction fencing (or similar) along the perimeter of the
project impact area.
A biological monitor should be present during all vegetation clearing and initial BMP installation.
If vegetation clearing must occur during the bird breeding season (February 1 through September
15), LSA recommends that a qualified biologist survey for the presence of nesting birds within
the immediate project vicinity no more than 48 hours prior to vegetation clearing. If clearing does
not occur within 48 hours of the nesting bird survey, then the area should be resurveyed. If
nesting birds are found, then the qualified biologist should establish an adequate buffer zone (on a
species by species, case by case basis) in which construction activities are prohibited until the
nest is no longer active. If the species is federally or State-listed as threatened or endangered, then
consultation with the USFWS and CDFW are required for direction on appropriate buffer zone
radius; however, if the species is not federally or State-listed as threatened or endangered, then
the size of the buffer zone is determined by the biological monitor based on the amount, intensity,
and duration of construction, and can be altered based on site conditions. The permitting agencies
may impose additional conditions regarding the protection of nesting birds.
All vehicles, equipment, tools, and supplies shall stay within the limits of the project impact
footprint. Vegetation and potentially jurisdictional features located outside of the proposed impact
areas are not to be disturbed during access or construction.
BMP features (e.g., silt fencing, straw waddles, and gravel bags) should be installed at the project
impact areas adjacent to potentially jurisdictional areas to prevent off-site sedimentation.
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Long-term storage of equipment, vehicles, tools, and supplies shall occur only within the impact
areas within the project footprint and designated staging areas. Vegetation and potentially
jurisdictional areas located outside of the proposed impact areas are not to be used for storage.
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SECTION 7.0: REFERENCES
American Ornithologists’ Union. 1998. The A.O.U. Checklist of North American Birds, Seventh
Edition, American Ornithologists’ Union, Washington D.C.; and supplements; see
http://www.aou.org/checklist/north/index.php.
Bontrager, D.R. 1991. Habitat Requirements, Home Range and Breeding Biology of the California
Gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica) in South Orange County, California. Prepared for Santa
Margarita Company, Rancho Santa Margarita, California.
Brown, B.T. 1993. Bell’s Vireo (Vireo bellii). In The Birds of North America, No. 35 (A. Poole, P.
Stettenheim, and F. Gill, Eds.). Philadelphia: The Academy of Natural Sciences; Washington,
DC: The American Ornithologists’ Union.
CDFW. 2013. RareFind Version 3.1.0, Records search executed on July 15, 2013, covering the
United States Geological Survey 7.5-minute series topographic maps, Encinitas, California
quadrangles. Resource Management and Planning Division. Biogeographic Data Branch,
Natural Diversity Database. Sacramento, California.
California Native Plant Society Electronic Inventory (CNPSEI). 2013. Inventory of Rare and
Endangered Plants (http://www.cnps.org/ inventory). Records search executed on July 15,
2013, covering the United States Geological Survey 7.5-minute series topographic maps,
Encinitas, California quadrangles. California Native Plant Society. Sacramento, California.
Crother, B.I. ed. 2012. Scientific and Standard English Names of Amphibians and Reptiles of North
America North of Mexico. Herpetological Circular 39.
Gray, J., and D. Bramlet. 1992. Habitat Classification System, Natural Resources, Geographic
Information System (GIS) Project. County of Orange Environmental Management Agency,
Santa Ana, California.
Hickman, J.C., ed. 1993. The Jepson Manual: Higher Plants of California. University of California
Press, Berkeley and Los Angeles, CA. 1,400 pp.
Holland, R.F. 1986. Preliminary Descriptions of the Terrestrial Natural Communities of California.
State of California, The Resources Agency, Department of Fish and Wildlife, Natural
Heritage Division, Sacramento, California.
LSA Associates, Inc. (LSA). 2013a. Coastal California Gnatcatcher Protocol Survey Results: Via
Altisma Project, City of Carlsbad, San Diego County.
LSA. 2013b. Jurisdictional Delineation Report: Ikon Limited – Carlsbad Parcel, City of Carlsbad,
San Diego County, California.
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Mock, P.J., B.L. Jones, and J. Konecny. 1990. California Gnatcatcher Survey Guidelines. ERC
Environmental and Energy Services Co.
North American Butterfly Association. 2001. NABA checklist and English Names of North American
Butterflies, Second Edition, North American Butterfly Association, Morristown, New Jersey;
see http://www.naba.org/pubs/checklst.html.
Oberbauer, Thomas, Meghan Kelly, and Jeremy Buegge. March 2008. Draft Vegetation Communities
of San Diego County. Based on “Preliminary Descriptions of the Terrestrial Natural
Communities of California”, Robert F. Holland, Ph.D., October 1986.
Paulson, D. 2009. Dragonflies and Damselflies of the West, Princeton University Press, Princeton,
New Jersey.
Rebman, J.P., and M.G. Simpson. 2006. Checklist of the Vascular Plants of San Diego County, 4th
Edition. San Diego. Natural History Museum, San Diego, California.
Stebbins, R.C., and S.M. McGinnis. 2012. Field Guide to Amphibians and Reptiles of California,
Revised Edition, University of California Press, Berkeley.
United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS).
2013. Soil Survey Staff, Natural Resources Conservation Service, United States Department
of Agriculture. Official Soil Series Descriptions. Online: http://soils.usda.gov/technical/
classification/osd/index.html.
USDA-NRCS. 2013. List of Hydric Soils - National List; all states. See ftp://ftp-fc.sc.egov.usda.gov/
NSSC/Hydric_Soils/Lists/hydric_soils.xlsx.
United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 1997. Coastal California Gnatcatcher (Polioptila
californica californica) Presence/Absence Survey Guidelines – February 28, 1997.
USFWS. 2010. Coastal California gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica californica) 5-year review:
summary and evaluation. Carlsbad Field Office. September 29.
USFWS. 2013a. National Wetlands Inventory Maps. See http://www.fws.gov/wetlands/.
United States Geological Survey (USGS). 2013. 7.5-minute topographic quadrangle maps for
Encinitas, California.
Wilson, D.E., and D.M. Reeder, eds. 2005. Mammal Species of the World, Third Edition, Johns
Hopkins University Press, Baltimore, Maryland; see http://www.vertebrates.si.edu/msw/
mswcfapp/msw/index.cfm.
LSA ASSOCIATES, INC. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES TECHNICAL REPORT
AUGUST OCTOBER 2015 CASCADA VERDE RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT PROJECT
CARLSBAD, CALIFORNIA
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APPENDIX A
VASCULAR PLANT SPECIES OBSERVED
LSA ASSOCIATES, INC. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES TECHNICAL REPORT
AUGUST OCTOBER 2015 CASCADA VERDE RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT PROJECT
CARLSBAD, CALIFORNIA
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The following vascular plant species were observed within the BSA by LSA biologists during site
surveys conducted in 2013 and 2014.
Vascular Plant Species Observed
Scientific Name Common Name
Anacardiaceae Sumac family
Malosma laurina Laurel sumac
Rhus integrifolia Lemonade berry
Schinus molle (introduced, nonnative species) Peruvian pepper tree
Schinus terebinthifolius (introduced, nonnative species) Brazilian pepper tree
Apiaceae Carrot family
Apium graveolens (introduced, nonnative species) Wild celery
Foeniculum vulgare (introduced, nonnative species) Sweet fennel
Apocynacecae Dogbane family
Nerium oleander (introduced, nonnative species) Oleander
Arecaceae Palm family
Washingtonia robusta (introduced, nonnative species) Mexican fan palm
Asteraceae Sunflower family
Artemisia californica California sagebrush
Isocoma menziesii Coastal goldenbush
Iva hayesiana San Diego marsh-elder
Brassicaceae Mustard family
Brassica nigra (introduced, nonnative species) Black mustard
Crassulaceae Stonecrop family
Dudleya pulverulenta Chalk dudleya
Cyperaceae Sedge family
Cyperus involucratus (introduced, nonnative species) Umbrella plant
Ericaceae Blueberry family
Euphorbia peplus (introduced, nonnative species) Petty spurge
Fabaceae Pea family
Acmispon glaber Deerweed
Iridaceae Iris family
Iris pseudacorus (introduced, nonnative species) Yellow iris
Sisyrinchium bellum Blue-eyed grass
Lamiaceae Mint family
Salvia mellifera Black sage
Magnoliaceae Magnolia family
Malacothamnus fremontii Bush mallow
Myrtaceae Myrtle family
Eucalyptus spp. (introduced, nonnative species) Eucalyptus
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Vascular Plant Species Observed
Scientific Name Common Name
Pinaceae Pine family
Pinus spp. (introduced, nonnative species) Pines
Platanaceae Sycamore family
Platanus racemosa Western sycamore
Poaceae Grass family
Avena fatua (introduced, nonnative species) Wild oat
Brachypodium distachyon (introduced, nonnative species) Purple false brome
Bromus diandrus (introduced, nonnative species) Common ripgut grass
Bromus hordeaceus (introduced, nonnative species) Soft chess
Bromus rubens (introduced, nonnative species) Red brome
Cortaderia selloana (introduced, nonnative species) Pampas grass
Ehrharta erecta (introduced, nonnative species) Panic veldtgrass
Lolium multiflorum (introduced, nonnative species) Italian ryegrass
Nassella pulchra Purple needlegrass
Polygonaceae Buckwheat family
Eriogonum fasciculatum California buckwheat
Salicaceae Willow family
Salix exigua Sandbar willow
Salix lasiolepis Arroyo willow
Saururaceae Lizard-tail family
Anemopsis californica Yerba mansa
Scrophulariaceae Figwort family
Mimulus aurantiacus Sticky monkey flower
Typhaceae Cattail family
Typha latifolia Broadleaf cattail
Taxonomy and scientific nomenclature generally conform to Hickman (1993). Common names for each taxa generally conform to the
Checklist of the Vascular Plants of San Diego County (Simpson and Rebman 2006).
LSA ASSOCIATES, INC. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES TECHNICAL REPORT
AUGUST OCTOBER 2015 CASCADA VERDE RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT PROJECT
CARLSBAD, CALIFORNIA
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APPENDIX B
WILDLIFE SPECIES OBSERVED
LSA ASSOCIATES, INC. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES TECHNICAL REPORT
AUGUST OCTOBER 2015 CASCADA VERDE RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT PROJECT
CARLSBAD, CALIFORNIA
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This is a list of the conspicuous aerial insects, reptiles, birds, and mammals noted in or adjacent to the
BSA by LSA biologists during site surveys conducted in 2013 and 2014. Presence may be noted if a
species is seen or heard, or identified by the presence of tracks, scat, or other signs.
Wildlife Species Observed
Scientific Name Common Name
LEPIDOPTERA BUTTERFLIES
Papilionidae Swallowtails
Papilio rutulus Western tiger swallowtail
Pieridae Whites and Sulphurs
Pontia protodice Common white
AVES BIRDS
Accipitridae Hawks, Kites, Eagles, and Allies
Buteo jamaicensis Red-tailed hawk
Charadriidae Plovers and Lapwings
Charadrius vociferus Killdeer
Columbidae Pigeons and Doves
Zenaida macroura Mourning dove
Trochilidae Hummingbirds
Calypte anna Anna’s hummingbird
Picidae Woodpeckers and Allies
Melanerpes formicivorus Acorn woodpecker
Falconidae Caracaras and Falcons
Falco sparverius American kestrel
Tyrannidae Tyrant Flycatchers
Sayornis nigricans Black phoebe
Corvidae Crows and Jays
Aphelocoma californica Western scrub-jay
Corvus brachyrhynchos American crow
Aegithalidae Long-Tailed Tits and Bushtits
Psaltriparus minimus Bushtit
Sylviidae Sylviid Warblers
Chamaea fasciata Wrentit
Mimidae Mockingbirds and Thrashers
Mimus polyglottos Northern mockingbird
Sturnidae Starlings
Sturnus vulgaris (not native to the BSA) European starling
Emberizidae Emberizids
Pipilo maculatus Spotted towhee
Melozone crissalis California towhee
LSA ASSOCIATES, INC. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES TECHNICAL REPORT
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CARLSBAD, CALIFORNIA
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Wildlife Species Observed
Scientific Name Common Name
Fringillidae Fringilline and Cardueline Finches and Allies
Haemorhous mexicanus House finch
Spinus psaltria Lesser goldfinch
MAMMALIA MAMMALS
Sciuridae Squirrels, Chipmunks, and Marmots
Spermophilus beecheyi California ground squirrel
Taxonomy and nomenclature are based primarily on the following:
Damselflies and dragonflies: Paulson, D. (2009, Dragonflies and Damselflies of the West, Princeton University Press, Princeton, New
Jersey).
Butterflies: North American Butterfly Association (2001, NABA checklist and English Names of North American Butterflies, Second
Edition, North American Butterfly Association, Morristown, New Jersey; see http://www.naba.org/pubs/checklst.html).
Amphibians and reptiles: Crother, B.I. ed. (2012, Scientific and Standard English Names of Amphibians and Reptiles of North America
North of Mexico. Herpetological Circular 39) for species taxonomy and nomenclature; Stebbins, R.C., and S.M. McGinnis (2012, Field
Guide to Amphibians and Reptiles of California, Revised Edition, University of California Press, Berkeley) for sequence and higher order
taxonomy.
Birds: American Ornithologists’ Union (1998, The A.O.U. Checklist of North American Birds, Seventh Edition, American Ornithologists’
Union, Washington D.C.; and supplements; see http://www.aou.org/checklist/north/index.php).
Mammals: Wilson, D.E., and D.M. Reeder, eds. (2005, Mammal Species of the World, Third Edition, Johns Hopkins University Press,
Baltimore, Maryland; see http://www.vertebrates.si.edu/msw/mswcfapp/msw/index.cfm).
LSA ASSOCIATES, INC. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES TECHNICAL REPORT
AUGUST OCTOBER 2015 CASCADA VERDE RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT PROJECT
CARLSBAD, CALIFORNIA
P:\IKN1301-Ikon\BTR\Cascada Verde BTR_Final_Revised_102115.docx ((10/21/2015)
APPENDIX C
COASTAL CALIFORNIA GNATCATCHER FOCUSED SURVEY
REPORT
9/17/13 «U:\IKN1301-Ikon\Report\CAGN Report.doc»
L S A A S S OC IA T ES , INC .
20 EXECUTIVE PARK, SUITE 200
IRVINE, CALIFORNIA 92614
949.553.0666 TEL
949.553.8076 FAX
BERKELEY
CARLSBAD
FORT COLLINS
FRESNO
PALM SPRINGS
PT. RICHMOND
RIVERSIDE
ROCKLIN
SAN LUIS OBISPO
PLANNING | ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES | DESIGN
September 17, 2013
Susie Tharratt Lyann Comrack
United States Fish and Wildlife Service Nongame Wildlife Program
Carlsbad Field Office California Department of Fish and Wildlife
2177 Salk Avenue, Suite 250 1812 Ninth Street
Carlsbad, California 92008 Sacramento, California 95811
Subject: Coastal California Gnatcatcher Protocol Survey Results: Via Altisma Project, City of
Carlsbad, San Diego County (LSA Project No. IKN1301)
Dear Ms. Tharratt and Ms. Comrack:
This letter report documents the results of protocol surveys conducted by LSA Associates, Inc. (LSA)
for the coastal California gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica californica; CAGN), a federally
threatened species and California Species of Special Concern. Three protocol CAGN surveys were
conducted in suitable habitat within an approximately 3-acre (ac) parcel in the City of Carlsbad in San
Diego County, California (see Figures 1–3; all figures are provided in Appendix A).
During the 2013 surveys, no CAGN were detected within the survey area.
SURVEY AREA
The CAGN survey area is in a narrow canyon between rows of houses just north of Alicante Road
and the La Costa Resort and Spa, between Altisma Way and Altiva Place in the City of Carlsbad, San
Diego County, California (Figure 1). The approximately 3 ac project area included potentially
suitable coastal sage scrub (CSS) habitat, composed of approximately 10 coastal sagebrush (Artemisia
californica) plants, and is continuous with CSS off site to the northwest.
The area is within Section 25, T12S, R4W, and Section 36, T12S, R4W, as shown in the northeast
quarter of the northeast quarter on the Encinitas, California 7.5-minute series United States
Geological Survey (USGS) topographic map. Specifically, the central coordinates are at North
American Datum (NAD) 83 Zone 11S Universal Transverse Mercator (UTM) 476,291 easting by
3,661,801 northing (latitude/longitude: Y: 33.09458, X: -117.25407). The survey area elevation is
approximately 45 feet (ft) above mean sea level.
The CAGN survey area on site is at the edge of a narrow band of CSS habitat on a south-facing slope.
The on-site vegetation is dominated by coastal sagebrush, with lesser amounts of California
buckwheat (Eriogonum fasciculatum), dudleya (Dudleya sp.), coastal deerweed (Acmispon glaber),
laurel sumac (Malosma laurina), and lemonade berry (Rhus integrifolia). The narrow band of CSS
habitat continues off site to the northwest adjacent to a perennial drainage that is densely vegetated
with willow species (Salix spp.), Brazilian pepper tree (Schinus terebinthifolius), and eucalyptus trees
(Eucalyptus spp.).
LSA ASSOCIATES, INC.
METHODS
On August 12, 20, and 27, 2013, LSA Associate Biologist Ingri Quon conducted three protocol
CAGN surveys. These CAGN surveys were conducted a minimum of 7 days apart in accordance with
United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) survey protocols (USFWS 1997) for lands within
an active Natural Community Conservation Planning (NCCP) area. During each survey, the biologist
walked slowly along the edge of and through potential CAGN habitat, listening and looking for
CAGN. Per protocol guidelines, taped recordings of CAGN were played periodically along the survey
route.
Surveys were conducted pursuant to Federal Fish and Wildlife Permit TE-777965-10 (March 22,
2013–March 21, 2017) and a letter permit from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife
(CDFW) attached to Scientific Collecting Permit SC-000777 covering conditions for research on
listed birds (November 29, 2012–January 31, 2017).
RESULTS
No CAGN were detected or observed within the project area during the protocol surveys (Table A;
Figures 2 and 3). Final critical habitat for CAGN is within 2,500 ft north and 5,000 ft south of the
project area, and CAGN have been recorded throughout most of the CSS-vegetated canyons in the
vicinity.
Table A: 2013 Survey Schedule, Conditions, and Observers
Date Time Conditions1 Surveyor
August 12 0800–0850 Overcast, mild, light air IQ
August 20 0845–1000 Overcast to partly cloudy (100–40 percent cover),
mild, light air
IQ
August 27 0800–0900 Partly cloudy (40–10 percent cover), mild, calm IQ
1 Seaman’s terms describe the wind conditions.
Surveyor: IQ = Ingri Quon
The closest reported literature search records (California Natural Diversity Database [CNDDB] 2013;
USFWS 2013) to the survey area include several records from the last 10 years within 2 miles of the
project area to the northwest, southwest, and east.
A willow flycatcher (Empidonax traillii) was observed on August 27. This migrant individual was
almost certainly not a southwestern willow flycatcher as that subspecies is far outnumbered by the
little willow flycatcher (E.t. brewsteri) during migration in southern California. Indeed, the
southwestern willow flycatcher is essentially unknown as a migrant in California (i.e., away from
known nesting areas).
The brown-headed cowbird (Molothrus ater), a brood parasite of CAGN and other passerines, was
not detected during the surveys.
9/17/13 «U:\IKN1301-Ikon\Report\CAGN Report.doc» 2
LSA ASSOCIATES, INC.
Appendix B includes a list of animal species detected during the surveys. Appendix C includes the
California Native Species Field Survey Forms. These forms have been electronically submitted to
CDFW.
If you have any questions or comments, please call (949) 553-0666 or email me at Ingri.Quon@lsa-
assoc.com, or contact the project manager, Mike Trotta, at (760) 931-5471 or Mike.Trotta@lsa-
assoc.com.
Sincerely,
LSA ASSOCIATES, INC.
Ingri Quon
Associate Biologist
cc: Mike Trotta, LSA (Carlsbad)
Attachments: Appendix A: Figures
Appendix B: Animal Species Detected
Appendix C: California Native Species Field Survey Forms
REFERENCES
California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB). 2013. California Department of Fish and Wildlife.
Encinitas and Rancho Santa Fe, California United States Geological Survey7.5-minute
quadrangles. Literature records search conducted in June.
United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 1997. Coastal California Gnatcatcher Presence/
Absence Survey Protocol. Carlsbad Field Office. July 28.
United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 2013. Final Critical Habitat for Coastal California
Gnatcatcher Designated January 18, 2008 by the USFWS. Database record dated March 12.
Unitt, P. 2004. San Diego County Bird Atlas. Proceedings of the San Diego Society of Natural
History No. 39.
I CERTIFY THAT THE INFORMATION IN THIS SURVEY REPORT AND ATTACHED
EXHIBITS FULLY AND ACCURATELY REPRESENT MY WORK:
SURVEYOR: PERMIT NUMBER: DATE:
TE-777965-10
September 17, 2013
9/17/13 «U:\IKN1301-Ikon\Report\CAGN Report.doc» 3
LSA ASSOCIATES, INC. COASTAL CALIFORNIA GNATCATCHER PROTOCOL SURVEY RESULTS
SEPTEMBER 2013 VIA ALTISIMA PROJECT
CITY OF CARLSBAD, SAN DIEGO COUNTY, CALIFORNIA
APPENDIX A
FIGURES
U:\IKN1301-Ikon\Report\CAGN Report.doc «09/17/13»
SOURCE: USGS 7.5' Quad - Encinitas (1975), CA
I:\IKN1301\GIS\ProjLoc.mxd (9/17/2013)
FIGURE 1
Via Altisma ProjectProject Location Map
0 1000 2000
FEET
LEGEND
Project Location
Project Location
San DiegoCounty
56
78
76
805
15
5
ProjectLocation
Project Vicinity
ALTIVA PLALICANTE
R
D
A
L
T
I
S
M
A
W
Y
LEGEND
Survey Area
SOURCE: Aerial - City of Carlsbad (2/2012)
I:\IKN1301\GIS\SurveyArea.mxd (9/17/2013)
FIGURE 2
Via Altisma ProjectCoastal California Gnatcatcher Survey Area
0 50 100
FEET
I:\IKN1301\G\Site Photos-a.cdr (9/16/13)
A. View to the south from just north of the project study area showing grassland, riparian
woodland, gum trees (Eucalyptus spp.) and Brazilian pepper trees (Schinus terebinthifolius).
Coastal sage scrub habitat in the foreground is mostly outside of the study area (08/20/2013).
FIGURE 3
Representative Photos
B. Big-eared woodrat (Neotoma macrotis) midden in riparian woodland.
Via Altisma Project
LSA ASSOCIATES, INC. COASTAL CALIFORNIA GNATCATCHER PROTOCOL SURVEY RESULTS
SEPTEMBER 2013 VIA ALTISIMA PROJECT
CITY OF CARLSBAD, SAN DIEGO COUNTY, CALIFORNIA
APPENDIX B
ANIMAL SPECIES DETECTED
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LSA ASSOCIATES, INC. COASTAL CALIFORNIA GNATCATCHER PROTOCOL SURVEY RESULTS
SEPTEMBER 2013 VIA ALTISIMA PROJECT
CITY OF CARLSBAD, SAN DIEGO COUNTY, CALIFORNIA
APPENDIX B
ANIMAL SPECIES DETECTED
This is a list of the conspicuous aerial insects (i.e., damselflies, dragonflies, and butterflies),
amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals noted in the study area by an LSA biologist in 2013.
Presence may be noted if a species is seen or heard, or identified by the presence of tracks, scat, or
other signs.
* Species not native to the study area
COLEOPTERA BEETLES
Scarabaeidae Scarab Beetles
Cotinis mutabilis Green fruit beetle
ZYGOPTERA DAMSELFLIES
Coenagrionidae Pond Damsels
Argia nahuana/agrioides Aztec/California dancer
ANISOPTERA TYPICAL DRAGONFLIES
Libellulidae Skimmers
Erythemis collocata Western pondhawk
Pantala hymenaea Spot-winged glider
LEPIDOPTERA BUTTERFLIES
Pieridae Whites and Sulphurs
* Pieris rapae Cabbage white Colias eurytheme Orange sulphur
Nymphalidae Brush-Footed Butterflies Liminitis lorquini Lorquin’s admiral
AMPHIBIA AMPHIBIANS
Hylidae Chorus Frogs
Pseudacris hypochondriaca Baja California treefrog
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LSA ASSOCIATES, INC. COASTAL CALIFORNIA GNATCATCHER PROTOCOL SURVEY RESULTS
SEPTEMBER 2013 VIA ALTISIMA PROJECT
CITY OF CARLSBAD, SAN DIEGO COUNTY, CALIFORNIA
REPTILIA REPTILES
Phrynosomatidae Phrynosomatid Lizards Sceloporus occidentalis Western fence lizard
AVES BIRDS
Accipitridae Hawks, Kites, Eagles, and Allies
Buteo lineatus Red-shouldered hawk
Buteo jamaicensis Red-tailed hawk
Columbidae Pigeons and Doves
* Columba livia Rock pigeon
Zenaida macroura Mourning dove
Trochilidae Hummingbirds Calypte anna Anna’s hummingbird
Picidae Woodpeckers and Allies
Picoides nuttallii Nuttall’s woodpecker
Tyrannidae Tyrant Flycatchers Empidonax traillii Willow flycatcher
Sayornis nigricans Black phoebe
Tyrannus vociferans Cassin’s kingbird
Corvidae Crows and Jays
Aphelocoma californica Western scrub-jay
Corvus brachyrhynchos American crow
Hirundinidae Swallows
Stelgidopteryx serripennis Northern rough-winged swallow
Aegithalidae Long-Tailed Tits and Bushtits
Psaltriparus minimus Bushtit
Troglodytidae Wrens
Troglodytes aedon House wren
Thryomanes bewickii Bewick’s wren
Sylviidae Sylviid Warblers
Chamaea fasciata Wrentit
Mimidae Mockingbirds and Thrashers
Mimus polyglottos Northern mockingbird
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LSA ASSOCIATES, INC. COASTAL CALIFORNIA GNATCATCHER PROTOCOL SURVEY RESULTS
SEPTEMBER 2013 VIA ALTISIMA PROJECT
CITY OF CARLSBAD, SAN DIEGO COUNTY, CALIFORNIA
Parulidae Wood Warblers
Geothlypis trichas Common yellowthroat
Emberizidae Emberizids
Pipilo maculatus Spotted towhee
Melozone crissalis California towhee
Melospiza melodia Song sparrow
Fringillidae Fringilline and Cardueline Finches and
Allies
Haemorhous mexicanus House finch
Spinus psaltria Lesser goldfinch
Passeridae Old World Sparrows
* Passer domesticus House sparrow
MAMMALIA MAMMALS
Geomyidae Pocket Gophers
Thomomys bottae Botta’s pocket gopher
Cricetidae Hamsters, Voles, Lemmings, and New
World Rats and Mice
Neotoma macrotis Big-eared woodrat
Leporidae Rabbits and Hares
Sylvilagus audubonii Audubon’s cottontail
Felidae Cats Lynx rufus Bobcat
Canidae Foxes, Wolves, and Allies
Canis latrans Coyote
Taxonomy and nomenclature are based primarily on the following.
Damselflies and dragonflies: Paulson, D. (2009, Dragonflies and Damselflies of the West, Princeton
University Press, Princeton, New Jersey).
Butterflies: North American Butterfly Association (2001, NABA checklist and English Names of
North American Butterflies, Second Edition, North American Butterfly Association, Morristown,
New Jersey; see http://www.naba.org/pubs/checklst.html).
Fishes: Moyle, P.B. (2002, Inland Fishes of California, Second Edition, University of California
Press, Berkeley).
U:\IKN1301-Ikon\Report\CAGN Report.doc «09/17/13» B-3
LSA ASSOCIATES, INC. COASTAL CALIFORNIA GNATCATCHER PROTOCOL SURVEY RESULTS
SEPTEMBER 2013 VIA ALTISIMA PROJECT
CITY OF CARLSBAD, SAN DIEGO COUNTY, CALIFORNIA
Amphibians and reptiles: Crother, B.I. ed. (2012, Scientific and Standard English Names of
Amphibians and Reptiles of North America North of Mexico. Herpetological Circular 39) for species
taxonomy and nomenclature; Stebbins, R.C., and S.M. McGinnis (2012, Field Guide to Amphibians
and Reptiles of California, Revised Edition, University of California Press, Berkeley) for sequence
and higher-order taxonomy.
Birds: American Ornithologists’ Union (1998, The A.O.U. Checklist of North American Birds,
Seventh Edition, American Ornithologists’ Union, Washington, D.C.; and supplements; see
http://www.aou.org/checklist/north/index.php).
Mammals: Wilson, D.E., and D.M. Reeder, eds. (2005, Mammal Species of the World, Third Edition,
Johns Hopkins University Press, Baltimore, Maryland; see http://www.vertebrates.si.edu/msw/
mswcfapp/msw/index.cfm).
U:\IKN1301-Ikon\Report\CAGN Report.doc «09/17/13» B-4
LSA ASSOCIATES, INC. COASTAL CALIFORNIA GNATCATCHER PROTOCOL SURVEY RESULTS
SEPTEMBER 2013 VIA ALTISIMA PROJECT
CITY OF CARLSBAD, SAN DIEGO COUNTY, CALIFORNIA
APPENDIX C
CALIFORNIA NATIVE SPECIES FIELD SURVEY FORMS
U:\IKN1301-Ikon\Report\CAGN Report.doc «09/17/13»
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LSA ASSOCIATES, INC. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES TECHNICAL REPORT
AUGUST OCTOBER 2015 CASCADA VERDE RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT PROJECT
CARLSBAD, CALIFORNIA
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APPENDIX D
JURISDICTION DELINEATION REPORT
J U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I N E A T I O N R E P O R T
IKON LIMITED — CARLSBAD PARCEL
CITY OF CARLSBAD
SAN DIEGO COUNTY, CALIFORNIA
Prepared for:
Ikon Limited
2633 South Fairfax Avenue
Culver City, California 90232
(310) 837-2633
Prepared by:
LSA Associates, Inc.
703 Palomar Airport Road, Suite 260
Carlsbad, California 92011
(760) 931-5471
LSA Project No. IKN1301
May 2013
L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C .L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C .L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C .L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C . J U R I S D I C T I O N A L J U R I S D I C T I O N A L J U R I S D I C T I O N A L J U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I N E A T I O ND E L I N E A T I O ND E L I N E A T I O ND E L I N E A T I O N
M A Y 2 0 1 3M A Y 2 0 1 3M A Y 2 0 1 3M A Y 2 0 1 3 I K O N L I M I T E D I K O N L I M I T E D I K O N L I M I T E D I K O N L I M I T E D –––– C A R L S B A D P A R C E LC A R L S B A D P A R C E LC A R L S B A D P A R C E LC A R L S B A D P A R C E L
C A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I AC A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I AC A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I AC A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I A
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION .................................................................................................................................. 1
PROPOSED PROJECT .......................................................................................................................... 1
SITE DESCRIPTION ............................................................................................................................. 1
REGULATORY BACKGROUND ........................................................................................................ 3
United States Army Corps of Engineers .......................................................................................... 3
Wetlands .......................................................................................................................................... 5
California Department of Fish and Wildlife .................................................................................... 7
Regional Water Quality Control Board ........................................................................................... 8
METHODOLOGY ................................................................................................................................. 8
RESULTS ............................................................................................................................................... 8
Vegetation ........................................................................................................................................ 9
Soils ................................................................................................................................................. 9
Hydrology ...................................................................................................................................... 13
CONCLUSIONS .................................................................................................................................. 13
Potential Corps and RWQCB Jurisdiction ..................................................................................... 13
Potential CDFW Jurisdiction ......................................................................................................... 14
REFERENCES ..................................................................................................................................... 15
FIGURES
Figure 1: Project Location ...................................................................................................................... 2
Figure 2: Potential Corps and CDFW Jurisdictional Areas .................................................................. 10
Figure 3: Site Photographs ................................................................................................................... 11
TABLES
Table A: Hydrophytic Vegetation .......................................................................................................... 6
Table B: Potential Corps and RWQCB Jurisdictional Waters of the U.S. ........................................... 14
Table C: Potential CDFW Jurisdiction ................................................................................................. 14
APPENDICES
A: COPY OF WETLAND DATA FORMS
B: FUNCTION AND VALUES ANALYSIS
L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C .L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C .L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C .L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C . J U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I NJ U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I NJ U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I NJ U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I N E A T I O NE A T I O NE A T I O NE A T I O N
M A Y 2 0 1 3M A Y 2 0 1 3M A Y 2 0 1 3M A Y 2 0 1 3 I K O N L I M I T E D I K O N L I M I T E D I K O N L I M I T E D I K O N L I M I T E D –––– C A R L S B A D P A R C E LC A R L S B A D P A R C E LC A R L S B A D P A R C E LC A R L S B A D P A R C E L
C A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I AC A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I AC A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I AC A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I A
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INTRODUCTION
This report presents the results of a jurisdictional delineation conducted by LSA Associates, Inc.
(LSA). The report summarizes the results of fieldwork conducted to identify the limits of potential
wetlands and nonwetland waters of the United States subject to the jurisdiction of the United States
Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) and Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB) pursuant to
Sections 404 and 401 of the Federal Clean Water Act, respectively; and streambeds, water bodies,
and associated habitat subject to California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) regulation
pursuant to the California Fish and Game Code. LSA surveyed an approximately 3-acre study area
located in the City of Carlsbad, San Diego County, California (Figure 1). This report has been
prepared for use by Ikon Limited for purposes of identifying aquatic resource limits for design
consideration with the intent of minimizing and avoiding impacts to aquatic resources to the greatest
extent feasible, and for submittal to the Corps, CDFW, and RWQCB as part of their review of
applications for permit authorization, if project impacts trigger the need for such permits.
This routine wetland and jurisdictional delineation was conducted under contract with Ikon Limited.
The findings and conclusions presented in this report, including the location and extent of aquatic
resources subject to regulatory jurisdiction, represent the professional opinion of LSA and should be
considered preliminary until verified by representatives of the Corps, CDFW, and RWQCB.
PROPOSED PROJECT
No project has been proposed at this time. Ikon Limited contracted LSA to assess the study area to
identify potential natural resources constraints that would affect future development of the site.
SITE DESCRIPTION
The study area is located within the South Coast subregion of the Southwestern California region of
the California Floristic Province, characterized by valleys and small hills extending from the coast
inland to the foothills of the Transverse and Peninsular Mountain ranges. Specifically, the project is
located in Sections 25 and 36, Township 12 South, and Range 4 West, of the United States
Geological Survey (USGS) Encinitas, California 7.5-minute topographic quadrangle map. The study
area is located within a canyon north of Alicante Road, between Altisma Way and Altiva Place in
Carlsbad, California.
The majority of the study area consists of riparian woodland. Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus sp.) woodland;
previously disturbed areas dominated by nonnative annual vegetation; coastal sage scrub; and a small
patch of native grassland are also present within the study area.
The study area is located within the Carlsbad Hydrologic Unit (HU) (Carlsbad Watershed), which is
approximately 210 square miles extending from the headwaters above Lake Wolhford in the east to
the Pacific Ocean in the west, and from Vista and Oceanside in the north to Solana Beach, Escondido,
and the community of Rancho Santa Fe to the south. The Cities of Carlsbad, San Marcos, and
Encinitas are entirely within this watershed. There are numerous important surface hydrologic
features within the Carlsbad Watershed, including four unique coastal lagoons, three major creeks,
and two large water storage reservoirs. The HU contains four major, roughly parallel hydrologic areas
Project Location
LEGEND
Project Location
SOURCE: USGS 7.5' Quad. (Encinitas, 1975; Rancho Santa Fe, 1983)I:\IKN1301\GIS\ProjectLocation.mxd (5/10/2013)
FIGURE 1
Ikon Limited Carlsbad Parcel Project Location
0 1000 2000
FEET
L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C .L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C .L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C .L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C . J U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I NJ U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I NJ U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I NJ U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I N E A T I O NE A T I O NE A T I O NE A T I O N
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C A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I AC A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I AC A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I AC A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I A
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(HAs). Encompassing the study area is the San Marcos (904.2) HA and the Batiquitos hydrologic
subarea (HSA) according to the Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin – Region 9
(State of California 2007). The average annual rainfall for the study area is approximately 11.13
inches.1
REGULATORY BACKGROUND
United States Army Corps of Engineers
The Corps regulates discharges of dredged or fill material into waters of the United States. These
waters include wetland and nonwetland bodies of water that meet specific criteria. Corps regulatory
jurisdiction pursuant to Section 404 of the CWA is founded on a connection, or nexus, between the
water body in question and interstate commerce. This connection may be direct (through a tributary
system linking a stream channel with traditional navigable waters used in interstate or foreign
commerce) or may be indirect (through a nexus identified in the Corps regulations). The following
definition of waters of the United States is taken from the discussion provided at 33 Code of Federal
Regulations (CFR) 328.3:
“The term waters of the United States means:
(1) All waters which are currently used, or were used in the past, or may be susceptible to
use in interstate or foreign commerce …;
(2) All interstate waters including interstate wetlands;
(3) All other waters such as intrastate lakes, rivers, streams (including intermittent streams)
… the use, degradation or destruction of which could affect interstate or foreign
commerce …;
(4) All impoundments of waters otherwise defined as waters of the United States under the
definition; and
(5) Tributaries of waters defined in paragraphs (a) (1)–(4) of this section.”
The Corps typically regulates as waters of the United States a body of water displaying an ordinary
high water mark (OHWM). Corps jurisdiction over nontidal waters of the United States extends
laterally to the OHWM or beyond the OHWM to the limit of any adjacent wetlands, if present (33
CFR 328.4). The OHWM is defined as “that line on the shore established by the fluctuations of water
and indicated by physical characteristics such as a clear natural line impressed on the bank, shelving,
changes in the character of soil, destruction of terrestrial vegetation, the presence of litter and debris,
or other appropriate means that consider the characteristics of the surrounding area” (33 CFR 328.3).
Jurisdiction typically extends upstream to the point where the OHWM is no longer perceptible.
As discussed above, Corps regulatory jurisdiction under Section 404 of the CWA is founded on a
connection between the water body in question and interstate commerce. In the past, an indirect nexus
could potentially be established if isolated waters provided habitat for migratory birds, even in the
absence of a surface connection to a navigable water of the United States. The 1984 rule that enabled
the Corps to expand jurisdiction over isolated waters of this type became known as the Migratory
1 http://www.idcide.com/weather/ca/carlsbad.htm, May, 21, 2013.
L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C .L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C .L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C .L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C . J U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I NJ U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I NJ U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I NJ U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I N E A T I O NE A T I O NE A T I O NE A T I O N
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C A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I AC A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I AC A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I AC A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I A
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Bird Rule. However, on January 9, 2001, the United States Supreme Court narrowly limited Corps
jurisdiction of “nonnavigable, isolated, intrastate” waters based solely on the use of such waters by
migratory birds and particularly, the use of indirect indicators of interstate commerce (e.g., use by
migratory birds that cross state lines) as a basis for jurisdiction. The Court’s ruling derives from the
case Solid Waste Agency of Northern Cook County v. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, No. 99-1178
(SWANCC). The Supreme Court determined that the Corps exceeded its statutory authority by
asserting CWA jurisdiction over an abandoned sand and gravel pit in northern Illinois, which
provides habitat for migratory birds.
In 2006, the United States Supreme Court further considered Corps jurisdiction of “waters of the
United States” in the consolidated cases Rapanos v. United States and Carabell v. United States
(126 S. Ct. 2208), collectively referred to as Rapanos. The Supreme Court concluded that wetlands
are “waters of the United States” if they significantly affect the chemical, physical, and biological
integrity of other covered waters more readily understood as navigable. On June 5, 2007, the Corps
issued guidance regarding the Rapanos decision. This guidance states that the Corps will continue to
assert jurisdiction over traditional navigable waters, wetlands adjacent to traditional navigable waters,
relatively permanent non-navigable tributaries that have a continuous flow at least seasonally
(typically three months), and wetlands that abut relatively permanent tributaries. The Corps will
determine jurisdiction over waters that are non-navigable tributaries that are not relatively permanent
and wetlands adjacent to non-navigable tributaries that are not relatively permanent only after making
a significant nexus finding.
Furthermore, the preamble to Corps regulations (Preamble Section 328.3, Definitions) states that the
Corps does not generally consider the following waters to be waters of the U.S. The Corps does,
however, reserve the right to regulate these waters on a case-by-case basis.
• Nontidal drainage and irrigation ditches excavated on dry land;
• Artificially irrigated areas that would revert to upland if the irrigation ceased;
• Artificial lakes or ponds created by excavating and/or diking dry land to collect and retain water
and which are used exclusively for such purposes as stock watering, irrigation, settling basins, or
rice growing;
• Artificial reflecting or swimming pools or other small ornamental bodies of water created by
excavating and/or diking dry land to retain water for primarily aesthetic reasons; and
• Water-filled depressions created in dry land incidental to construction activity and pits excavated
in dry land for purposes of obtaining fill, sand, or gravel unless and until the construction or
excavation operation is abandoned and the resulting body of water meets the definition of waters
of the U.S.
Waters found to be isolated and not subject to CWA regulation are often still regulated by the
Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB) under the State Porter-Cologne Water Quality
Control Act (Porter-Cologne Act).
L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C .L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C .L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C .L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C . J U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I NJ U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I NJ U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I NJ U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I N E A T I O NE A T I O NE A T I O NE A T I O N
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C A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I AC A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I AC A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I AC A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I A
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Wetlands
Wetland delineations for Section 404 purposes must be conducted according to the Regional
Supplement to the Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual: Arid West Region (Version 2.0)
(Regional Supplement) (Corps 2008) and the Corps of Engineers 1987 Wetland Delineation Manual
(1987 Manual) (Environmental Laboratory 1987). Where there are differences between the two
documents, the Regional Supplement takes precedence over the 1987 Manual.
The Corps and United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) define wetlands as follows:
“Those areas that are inundated or saturated by surface or groundwater at a frequency and
duration sufficient to support, and that under normal circumstances do support, a prevalence
of vegetation typically adapted to life in saturated soil conditions.”
In order to be considered a jurisdictional wetland under Section 404, an area must possess three
wetland characteristics: hydrophytic vegetation, hydric soils, and wetland hydrology. Each
characteristic has a specific set of mandatory wetland criteria that must be satisfied in order for that
particular wetland characteristic to be met. Several indicators may be analyzed to determine whether
the criteria are satisfied.
Hydrophytic vegetation and hydric soils indicators provide evidence that episodes of inundation have
lasted more than a few days or have occurred repeatedly over a period of years, but do not confirm
that an episode has occurred recently. Conversely, wetland hydrology indicators provide evidence
that an episode of inundation or soil saturation occurred recently, but do not provide evidence that
episodes have lasted more than a few days or have occurred repeatedly over a period of years.
Because of this, if an area lacks one of the three characteristics under normal circumstances, the area
is considered nonwetland under most circumstances.
Determination of wetland limits may be obfuscated by a variety of natural environmental factors or
human activities, collectively called difficult wetland situations, including cyclic periods of drought
and flooding or highly ephemeral stream systems. During periods of drought, for example, bank
return flows are reduced and water tables are lowered. This results in a corresponding lowering of
ordinary high water and invasion of upland plant species into wetland areas. Conversely, extreme
flooding may create physical evidence of high water well above what might be considered ordinary
and may allow the temporary invasion of hydrophytic species into nonwetland areas. In highly
ephemeral systems typical of southern California, these problems are encountered frequently. In these
situations, professional judgment based on years of practical experience and extensive knowledge of
local ecological conditions comes into play in delineating wetlands. The Regional Supplement
provides additional guidance for difficult wetland situations.
Hydrophytic Vegetation. Hydrophytic vegetation is plant life that grows and is typically adapted for
life in permanently or periodically saturated soils. The hydrophytic vegetation criterion is met if more
than 50 percent of the dominant plant species from all strata (tree, shrub, herb, and woody vine
layers) are considered hydrophytic. Hydrophytic species are those included on the National Wetland
Plant List (Lichvar and Kartesz 2009), published by the Corps. Each species on the list is rated
according to a wetland indicator category, as shown in Table A. To be considered hydrophytic, the
species must have wetland indicator status (i.e., be rated as OBL, FACW, or FAC).
L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C .L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C .L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C .L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C . J U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I NJ U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I NJ U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I NJ U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I N E A T I O NE A T I O NE A T I O NE A T I O N
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C A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I AC A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I AC A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I AC A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I A
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Table A: Hydrophytic Vegetation
Category Probability
Obligate Wetland OBL Almost always occur in wetlands (estimated probability > 99%)
Facultative
Wetland
FACW Usually occur in wetlands (estimated probability 67–99%)
Facultative FAC Equally likely to occur in wetlands and nonwetlands (estimated probability 34–
66%)
Facultative Upland FACU Usually occur in nonwetlands (estimated probability 67–99%)
Obligate Upland UPL Almost always occur in nonwetlands (estimated probability > 99%)
The delineation of hydrophytic vegetation is typically based on the most dominant species from each
vegetative stratum (strata are considered separately); when more than 50 percent of these dominant
species are hydrophytic (i.e., FAC, FACW, or OBL), the vegetation is considered hydrophytic. In
particular, the Corps recommends the use of the “50/20” rule (also known as the dominance test) from
the Regional Supplement for determining dominant species. Under this method, dominant species are
the most abundant species that immediately exceed 50 percent of the total dominance measure for the
stratum, plus any additional species comprising 20 percent or more of the total dominance measure
for the stratum. In cases where indicators of hydric soil and wetland hydrology are present but the
vegetation initially fails the dominance test, the prevalence index must be used. The prevalence index
is a weighted average of all plant species within a sampling plot. The prevalence index is particularly
useful when communities only have one or two dominants, where species are present at roughly equal
coverage, or when strata differ greatly in total plant cover. In addition, Corps guidance provides that
morphological adaptations may be considered when determining hydrophytic vegetation when
indicators of hydric soil and wetland hydrology are present (Corps 2006). If the plant community
passes either the dominance test or prevalence index after reconsidering the indicator status of any
plant species that exhibit morphological adaptations for life in wetlands, then the vegetation is
considered hydrophytic.
Hydric Soils.1 Hydric soils are defined as soils that formed under conditions of saturation, flooding,
or ponding long enough during the growing season to develop anaerobic conditions in the upper part.2
Soils are considered likely to meet the definition of a hydric soil when one or more of the following
criteria are met:
1. All Histels except Folistels and Histosols except Folists; or
2. Soils that are frequently ponded for long duration or very long duration3 during the growing
season; or
3. Soils that are frequently flooded for long duration or very long duration during the growing
season.
1 The hydric soil definition and criteria included in the 1987 Manual are obsolete. Users of the Manual are directed to the
United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service Web site for the most
current information on hydric soils.
2 Current definition as of 1994 (FR July 13, 1994).
3 Long duration is defined as a single event ranging from 7 to 30 days; very long duration is defined as a single event that
lasts longer than 30 days.
L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C .L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C .L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C .L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C . J U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I NJ U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I NJ U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I NJ U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I N E A T I O NE A T I O NE A T I O NE A T I O N
M A Y 2 0 1 3M A Y 2 0 1 3M A Y 2 0 1 3M A Y 2 0 1 3 I K O N L I M I T E D I K O N L I M I T E D I K O N L I M I T E D I K O N L I M I T E D –––– C A R L S B A D P A R C E LC A R L S B A D P A R C E LC A R L S B A D P A R C E LC A R L S B A D P A R C E L
C A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I AC A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I AC A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I AC A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I A
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Hydric soils develop under conditions of saturation and inundation combined with microbial activity
in the soil that causes a depletion of oxygen. While saturation may occur at any time of year,
microbial activity is limited to the growing season, when soil temperature is above biologic zero (the
soil temperature at a depth of 50 centimeters (cm), below which the growth and function of locally
adapted plants are negligible). Biogeochemical processes that occur under anaerobic conditions
during the growing season result in the distinctive morphologic characteristics of hydric soils. Based
on these criteria, a National List of Hydric Soils was created from the National Soil Information
System (NASIS) database and is updated annually.
The Regional Supplement has a number of field indicators that may be used to identify hydric soils.
Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) (2003) has also developed a number of field
indicators that may demonstrate the presence of hydric soils. These indicators include hydrogen
sulfide generation, accumulation of organic matter, and the reduction, translocation and/or
accumulation of iron and other reducible elements. These processes result in soil characteristics that
persist during both wet and dry periods. Separate indicators have been developed for sandy soils and
for loamy and clayey soils.
Wetland Hydrology. Under natural conditions, development of hydrophytic vegetation and hydric
soils are dependent on a third characteristic: wetland hydrology. Areas with wetland hydrology are
those where the presence of water has an overriding influence on vegetation and soil characteristics
due to anaerobic and reducing conditions, respectively (Environmental Laboratory 1987). The
wetland hydrology parameter is satisfied if the area is seasonally inundated or saturated to the surface
for a minimum of 14 consecutive days during the growing season in most years (Corps 2008).
Hydrology is often the most difficult criterion to measure in the field due to seasonal and annual
variations in water availability. Some of the indicators that are commonly used to identify wetland
hydrology include visual observation of inundation or saturation, watermarks, recent sediment
deposits, surface scour, and oxidized root channels (rhizospheres) resulting from prolonged anaerobic
conditions.
California Department of Fish and Wildlife
The CDFW, through provisions of the California Fish and Game Code (Sec. 1600 et seq.), is
empowered to issue agreements for any alteration of a river, stream, or lake where fish or wildlife
resources may be adversely affected. Streams (and rivers) are defined by the presence of a channel
bed and banks and at least an intermittent flow of water. The CDFW regulates wetland areas only to
the extent that those wetlands are part of a river, stream, or lake as defined by the CDFW. Also, the
CDFW typically does not regulate estuaries below the mouth of a tributary river or stream.
In obtaining CDFW agreements, the limits of wetlands are not typically determined. The reason for
this is that the CDFW generally includes, within the jurisdictional limits of streams and lakes, any
riparian habitat present. Riparian habitat includes willows, mule fat, and other vegetation typically
associated with the banks of a stream or lake shorelines and may not be consistent with Corps
definitions. In most situations, wetlands associated with a stream or lake would fall within the limits
of riparian habitat. Thus, defining the limits of CDFW jurisdiction based on riparian habitat will
automatically include any wetland areas and may include additional areas that do not meet Corps
L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C .L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C .L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C .L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C . J U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I NJ U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I NJ U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I NJ U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I N E A T I O NE A T I O NE A T I O NE A T I O N
M A Y 2 0 1 3M A Y 2 0 1 3M A Y 2 0 1 3M A Y 2 0 1 3 I K O N L I M I T E D I K O N L I M I T E D I K O N L I M I T E D I K O N L I M I T E D –––– C A R L S B A D P A R C E LC A R L S B A D P A R C E LC A R L S B A D P A R C E LC A R L S B A D P A R C E L
C A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I AC A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I AC A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I AC A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I A
P:\IKN1301-Ikon\JD\JD_Report.docx «5/23/2013» 8
criteria for soils and/or hydrology (e.g., where riparian woodland canopy extends beyond the banks of
a stream away from frequently saturated soils).
Regional Water Quality Control Board
The RWQCB is responsible for the administration of Section 401 of the CWA and the California
Water Code Porter-Cologne Water Quality Control Act (Water Code Section 13260). Section 401 of
the CWA specifies that certification from the State is required for any applicant requesting a Federal
license or permit to conduct any activity including, but not limited to, the construction or operation of
facilities that may result in any discharge into navigable waters. The Porter-Cologne Act requires
“any person discharging waste, or proposing to discharge waste, within any region that could affect
the waters of the State” to file a report of discharge. Typically, the areas subject to RWQCB
jurisdiction coincide with those of the Corps (i.e., waters of the U.S., including any wetlands).
METHODOLOGY
LSA biologists Dan Rosie and Jaime Morales performed the jurisdictional delineation fieldwork on
May 7, 2013. LSA prepared a field map of the area to be surveyed using a 2012 aerial photograph
base at a scale of 1 inch = 80 feet. The study area was surveyed on foot, and all areas of potential
jurisdiction were evaluated according to Corps and CDFW criteria. Data were recorded using a
Global Positioning System (GPS) unit with sub-meter accuracy and directly on the field map,
particularly where GPS reception was limited due to dense tree canopies.
LSA evaluated areas supporting hydrology or species of plant life potentially indicative of wetlands
according to routine wetland delineation procedures described in the Regional Supplement.
Representative sample points were selected and examined in the field in those areas where wetland
jurisdiction was in question or needed to be confirmed. At each sample point, the dominant and
subdominant plant species were identified and their wetland indicator status (Lichvar and Kartesz
2009) noted. A small sample pit (approximately 12–20 inches deep) was dug at each point in order to
examine soil characteristics and composition. Soil matrix colors were classified according to the
Munsell Soil Color Charts (Munsell Color 2000). Hydrological conditions, including any surface
inundation, saturated soils, groundwater levels, and/or other wetland hydrology indicators, were
recorded. General site characteristics were also noted. Standard data forms were completed for each
sample point; copies of these data forms are included in Appendix A of this report.
RESULTS
Within the study area, there is an unnamed intermittent stream course that conveys flows from north
to south through a canyon surrounded to the west, south, and east by residential development. The
drainage conveys flows in the northern portion of the study area via a natural channel to an elevated
earthen road crossing that includes a 36-inch diameter culvert. The drainage in the southern portion of
the study area consists of various previously-excavated braids that channelize most flows to a 48-inch
diameter culvert at Alicante Road and into the local storm drain system. In the southern portion of the
site, there are several culvert outlets, presumably storm drain outlets, that provide additional water
L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C .L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C .L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C .L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C . J U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I NJ U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I NJ U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I NJ U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I N E A T I O NE A T I O NE A T I O NE A T I O N
M A Y 2 0 1 3M A Y 2 0 1 3M A Y 2 0 1 3M A Y 2 0 1 3 I K O N L I M I T E D I K O N L I M I T E D I K O N L I M I T E D I K O N L I M I T E D –––– C A R L S B A D P A R C E LC A R L S B A D P A R C E LC A R L S B A D P A R C E LC A R L S B A D P A R C E L
C A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I AC A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I AC A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I AC A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I A
P:\IKN1301-Ikon\JD\JD_Report.docx «5/23/2013» 9
sources which support the wetlands hydrology. Remnant developed areas such as brick flooring,
retaining walls, fire pits, and awnings are scattered throughout the southern portion of the study area.
The stream course, presumably through the local storm drain system, is tributary to San Marcos
Creek, Batiquitos Lagoon, and ultimately the Pacific Ocean (a Traditional Navigable Water [TNW] of
the U.S.). Because of the direct connection with the Pacific Ocean, this feature is subject to Corps
jurisdiction to the OHWM and adjacent wetlands. The entire area mapped as wetlands meets all three
criteria for wetland waters of the U.S.: wetland hydrology, hydric soils, and dominance of
hydrophytic plant species. Riparian woodland vegetation associated with this drainage feature,
including streambed and banks, is subject to CDFW jurisdiction.
The study area is not within the 100-year floodplain. Functions and values for this feature were
determined to have a moderate to high significance in terms of resources. Figure 2 depicts the
location of this feature and Figure 3 shows site conditions. The wetland data forms (Appendix A)
contain full descriptions of the results of each sample point. Appendix B describes and evaluates the
functions and values of the feature within the study area.
Vegetation
There is a variety of vegetation communities located within the study area, including ornamental
vegetation, disturbed areas, developed areas, coastal sage scrub, native grassland, nonnative
grassland, eucalyptus woodland, and riparian woodland. Some ruderal forbs and annual nonnative
grasses occur throughout most of these communities. The hydrophytic vegetation criterion for Corps
jurisdictional wetlands is satisfied when there is a prevalence of wetland vegetation. Areas identified
in this report as wetlands are dominated by wetland vegetation and are subject to Corps and CDFW
jurisdiction. Riparian woodland vegetation associated with this drainage feature is subject to CDFW
jurisdiction.
Wetland vegetation within the drainage and on the surrounding terraces primarily includes canopies
of arroyo willow (Salix lasiolepis, FACW) and Brazilian pepper tree (Schinus terebinthifolius, FAC),
with sand bar willow (Salix exigua, FACW), yellow iris (Iris pseudacorus, OBL), yerba mansa
(Anemopsis californica, OBL), wild celery (Apium graveolens), broadleaf cattail (Typha latifolia,
OBL), and San Diego marsh-elder (Iva hayesiana, FACW) dominating the understory.
Soils
The Soil Survey for the San Diego Area, California, Part I (Soil Conservation Service 1973)
Encinitas, California quadrangle identifies and describes the soil expected to correspond to the
drainage within the study area as Exchequer rocky silt loam on 9 to 30 percent slopes (ExE), a well-
drained silt loam that formed in material weathered from hard metabasic rock. Salina clay loam on 2
to 9 percent slopes (SbC) is mapped in the southwestern corner of the study area. Due to various
disturbances within the study area as a result of development and other activities, soils as observed
during the surveys were varied and partially inconsistent with the soil survey.
Soil Pit 3
Soil Pit 2
Soil Pit 1
SOURCE: Aerial - City of Carlsbad (2/2012)I:\IKN1301\GIS\JD_Map.mxd (5/20/2013)
FIGURE 2
Ikon Limited Carlsbad Parcel Potentially Jurisdictional Areas
LEGEND
Study Area
Soil Pit
CDFG Streambed/Banks and Riparian Vegetation
Corps Wetland Waters of the U.S.ALTIVA PLACEALICANTE ROAD
A
L
T
I
SM
A
W
A
Y
0 40 80
FEET
Photograph 2:Photograph 1:
Photograph 4:Photograph 3:
Ikon Limited - Carlsbad Parcel
I:\IKN1301\G\Site_Photos-1&2.cdr (5/21/13)
Site Photographs
FIGURE 3
Sheet 1 of 2
View of riparian woodland associated with
the drainage, facing west. Non-jurisdictional
eucalyptus woodland is shown in the
background.
View of the southern border of the study
area, facing south.
View of a remnant developed area located
near the southern end of the study area,
facing north. The ground is covered with
brick, inhibiting the growth of vegetation.
View of one of the channelized braids, facing
south.
Photograph 6:Photograph 5:
Photograph 7:Photograph 8:
View of a remnant developed area (see
awning) located in the southern portion
portion of the study area, facing southwest.
View of Soil Pit 2, facing northeast.View of Soil Pit 3, facing northwest.
ViewofSoilPit1,facingeast.
Ikon Limited - Carlsbad Parcel
I:\IKN1301\G\Site_Photos-1&2.cdr (5/21/13)
Site Photographs
FIGURE 3
Sheet 2 of 2
L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C .L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C .L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C .L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C . J U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I NJ U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I NJ U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I NJ U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I N E A T I O NE A T I O NE A T I O NE A T I O N
M A Y 2 0 1 3M A Y 2 0 1 3M A Y 2 0 1 3M A Y 2 0 1 3 I K O N L I M I T E D I K O N L I M I T E D I K O N L I M I T E D I K O N L I M I T E D –––– C A R L S B A D P A R C E LC A R L S B A D P A R C E LC A R L S B A D P A R C E LC A R L S B A D P A R C E L
C A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I AC A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I AC A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I AC A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I A
P:\IKN1301-Ikon\JD\JD_Report.docx «5/23/2013» 13
Sample plots were taken within the study area above and below the observed OHWM where wetland
vegetation was predominant to identify the limits of potential jurisdictional areas. Previously
referenced Figure 2 depicts the locations of the sample plots.
Soil Pit (SP) 1 was dug in riparian woodland vegetation on a terrace located adjacent to two braided
channels that converge at the southern end of the study area. Soils within the pit primarily consisted
of silty clay. The profile at this location includes a layer that is approximately six inches thick, with
100 percent of the matrix composed of the correct combination of hue, value, and chroma (Munsel
moist 5YR 2.5/2) to meet the hydric soils indicator Depleted Matrix (F3) as outlined in the Regional
Supplement. These SP data were extrapolated for all locations within the study area consisting of
riparian woodland dominated by arroyo willow and yerba mansa, since this was the dominant
vegetation at SP 1.
SP 2 was dug in disturbed riparian woodland vegetation on a terrace upstream of SP 1. Soils at this
location were predominantly made up of silty clay loam. The profile at this location includes
alternating layers that are at least 12 inches thick. Approximately 40 percent of the matrix in each
alternating layer was composed of the correct combination of hue, value, and chroma (Munsell moist
5YR 3.5/1 and 5YR 6/1), each with approximately 10 percent distinct redox concentrations occurring
as soft masses in the matrices, to meet the hydric soils indicators Depleted Matrix (F3) and Redox
Dark Surface (F6) as outlined in the Regional Supplement. These SP data were extrapolated for all
locations within the study area consisting of disturbed riparian woodland dominated by Brazilian
pepper tree and yellow iris, since this was the dominant vegetation at SP 2.
SP 3, which was dug northeast of SP 2 just outside of areas including a hydrophytic understory, was
predominantly made up of sandy clay. SP 3 did not meet any hydric soils indicators as outlined in the
Regional Supplement, but did show relic hydric soil conditions with approximately 5 percent redox
concentrations occurring as soft masses and pore linings in the sandy clay layer at least 12 inches
from the surface, but with 95 percent of the matrix with a high chroma (Munsell moist 10YR 4/4). All
locations within the study area absent of a predominantly hydrophytic understory are not considered
wetlands.
Hydrology
Wetland hydrology was evident within the braided channels and throughout the associated terraces.
The following wetland hydrology indicators were observed: surface water (A1; a primary wetland
hydrology indicator described in the Regional Supplement), saturated soils (primary indicator A3),
oxidized rhizosperes along living roots (primary indicator C3), the presence of reduced iron (primary
indicator C4), drift deposits (secondary indicator B3), and drainage patterns (secondary indicator
B10).
CONCLUSIONS
Potential Corps and RWQCB Jurisdiction
The drainage has a direct connection to designated navigable waters of the U.S. The majority of the
riparian corridor meets the three parameters to be considered wetland waters of the U.S. by the Corps.
See Table B.
L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C .L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C .L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C .L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C . J U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I NJ U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I NJ U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I NJ U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I N E A T I O NE A T I O NE A T I O NE A T I O N
M A Y 2 0 1 3M A Y 2 0 1 3M A Y 2 0 1 3M A Y 2 0 1 3 I K O N L I M I T E D I K O N L I M I T E D I K O N L I M I T E D I K O N L I M I T E D –––– C A R L S B A D P A R C E LC A R L S B A D P A R C E LC A R L S B A D P A R C E LC A R L S B A D P A R C E L
C A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I AC A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I AC A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I AC A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I A
P:\IKN1301-Ikon\JD\JD_Report.docx «5/23/2013» 14
Table B: Potential Corps and RWQCB Jurisdictional Waters of the U.S.
Feature
Linear
Feet
Wetland Waters
(Acres)
Non-Wetland
Waters (Acres)
Total Corps
Jurisdiction (Acres)
Drainage and
Associated Terraces 766 1.00 0 1.00
Potential CDFW Jurisdiction
The drainage consists of riparian woodland habitat tributary to Batiquitos Lagoon and therefore is
potentially subject to CDFW jurisdiction. See Table C.
Table C: Potential CDFW Jurisdiction
Feature
Streambed/Banks and Riparian Vegetation
(Acres)
Total CDFW Jurisdiction
(Acres)
Drainage and Associated
Terraces 1.56 1.56
L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C .L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C .L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C .L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C . J U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I NJ U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I NJ U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I NJ U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I N E A T I O NE A T I O NE A T I O NE A T I O N
M A Y 2 0 1 3M A Y 2 0 1 3M A Y 2 0 1 3M A Y 2 0 1 3 I K O N L I M I T E D I K O N L I M I T E D I K O N L I M I T E D I K O N L I M I T E D –––– C A R L S B A D P A R C E LC A R L S B A D P A R C E LC A R L S B A D P A R C E LC A R L S B A D P A R C E L
C A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I AC A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I AC A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I AC A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I A
P:\IKN1301-Ikon\JD\JD_Report.docx «5/23/2013» 15
REFERENCES
California Coastal Commission. 1981 (rev. ed.). Statewide Interpretive Guidelines.
Environmental Laboratory. 1987. Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual. Technical
Report Y-87-1. United States Army Engineer Waterways Experiment Station, Vicksburg, MS.
Federal Interagency Committee for Wetland Delineation. 1989. Federal Manual for Identifying and
Delineating Jurisdictional Wetlands. United States Army Corps of Engineers, United States
Environmental Protection Agency, United States Fish and Wildlife Service, and United States
Department of Agriculture Soil Conservation Service, Washington, D.C. Cooperative Technical
publication. 76 pp. plus appendices.
Hickman, J.C., ed. 1993. The Jepson Manual: Higher Plants of California. University of California
Press, Berkeley and Los Angeles, CA. 1,400 pp.
Lichvar, R.W., and J.T. Kartesz. 2009. North American Digital Flora: National Wetland Plant List,
version 2.4.0 (https://wetland_plants.usace.army.mil). U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Engineer
Research and Development Center, Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory,
Hanover, NH, and BONAP, Chapel Hill, NC.
Metz, V., and J. Dixon. 2006. Suggestions for Preparing a Wetland Delineation Report for the
California Coastal Commission.
Munsell Color. 2000 (rev. ed.). Munsell Soil Color Charts. Macbeth Division of Kollmorgen
Instruments Corporation, New Windsor, NY.
Soil Conservation Service. 1973. Soil Survey of the San Diego Area, California, Part I. United States
Department of Agriculture, Washington, D.C.
State Water Resources Control Board. Workplan: Filling the Gaps in Wetland Protection. September
2004.
United States Army Corps of Engineers. 1991. CECW-OR Memorandum: Questions and Answers on
the 1987 Manual.
United States Army Corps of Engineers. 1992. CECW-OR Memorandum: Clarification and
Interpretation of the 1987 Manual.
United States Army Corps of Engineers. 1999. Code of Federal Regulations. Title 33, Volume 3,
Parts 200 to End. United States Government Printing Office.
United States Army Corps of Engineers. 2007. CECW-OR Memorandum: Clean Water Act
Jurisdiction Following the United States Supreme Court’s Decision in Rapanos v. United States
& Carabell v. United States.
United States Army Corps of Engineers. 2008. Regional Supplement to the Corps of Engineers
Wetland Delineation Manual: Arid West Region (Version 2.0). ed. J.S. Wakeley, R.W. Lichvar,
L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C .L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C .L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C .L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C . J U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I NJ U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I NJ U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I NJ U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I N E A T I O NE A T I O NE A T I O NE A T I O N
M A Y 2 0 1 3M A Y 2 0 1 3M A Y 2 0 1 3M A Y 2 0 1 3 I K O N L I M I T E D I K O N L I M I T E D I K O N L I M I T E D I K O N L I M I T E D –––– C A R L S B A D P A R C E LC A R L S B A D P A R C E LC A R L S B A D P A R C E LC A R L S B A D P A R C E L
C A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I AC A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I AC A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I AC A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I A
P:\IKN1301-Ikon\JD\JD_Report.docx «5/23/2013» 16
and C.V. Noble. ERDC/EL TR-08-28. Vicksburg, MS: United States Army Engineer Research
and Development Center.
United States Department of Agriculture, Soil Survey Staff. 1975. Soil Taxonomy. Agriculture
Handbook No. 436. United States Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 754 pp.
Wetland Research and Technology Center. 1993. Draft Training Package, Wetland Delineator
Certification Program. Environmental Laboratory, EP-W, Vicksburg, MS.
L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C .L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C .L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C .L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C . J U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I NJ U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I NJ U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I NJ U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I N E A T I O NE A T I O NE A T I O NE A T I O N
M A Y 2 0 1 3M A Y 2 0 1 3M A Y 2 0 1 3M A Y 2 0 1 3 I K O N L I M I T E D I K O N L I M I T E D I K O N L I M I T E D I K O N L I M I T E D –––– C A R L S B A D P A R C E LC A R L S B A D P A R C E LC A R L S B A D P A R C E LC A R L S B A D P A R C E L
C A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I AC A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I AC A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I AC A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I A
P:\IKN1301-Ikon\JD\JD_Report.docx «5/23/2013»
APPENDIX A
COPY OF WETLAND DATA FORMS
L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C .L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C .L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C .L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C . J U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I NJ U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I NJ U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I NJ U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I N E A T I O NE A T I O NE A T I O NE A T I O N
M A Y 2 0 1 3M A Y 2 0 1 3M A Y 2 0 1 3M A Y 2 0 1 3 I K O N L I M I T E D I K O N L I M I T E D I K O N L I M I T E D I K O N L I M I T E D –––– C A R L S B A D P A R C E LC A R L S B A D P A R C E LC A R L S B A D P A R C E LC A R L S B A D P A R C E L
C A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I AC A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I AC A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I AC A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I A
P:\IKN1301-Ikon\JD\JD_Report.docx «5/23/2013»
APPENDIX B
FUNCTIONS AND VALUE ANALYSIS
L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C .L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C .L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C .L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C . J U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I NJ U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I NJ U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I NJ U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I N E A T I O NE A T I O NE A T I O NE A T I O N
M A Y 2 0 1 3M A Y 2 0 1 3M A Y 2 0 1 3M A Y 2 0 1 3 I K O N L I M I T E D I K O N L I M I T E D I K O N L I M I T E D I K O N L I M I T E D –––– C A R L S B A D P A R C E LC A R L S B A D P A R C E LC A R L S B A D P A R C E LC A R L S B A D P A R C E L
C A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I AC A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I AC A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I AC A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I A
P:\IKN1301-Ikon\JD\JD_Report.docx «5/23/2013» B-1
ANALYSIS OF FUNCTIONS AND VALUES OF POTENTIAL WATERS
OF THE UNITED STATES
The following is an assessment of the functions and values attributable to the identified potential
jurisdictional waters in the study area. All waters have some degree of functionality, and no single
drainage can perform all of the functions considered below. The following functions are analyzed at
low, moderate, or high value levels. The individual drainages are analyzed in Table A-1 (following)
based on the criteria outlined below.
HYDROLOGIC REGIME
This function is the ability of a wetland or stream to absorb and store water belowground. The degree
of this saturation is dependent on the soil composition and is affected by prior flooding events. For
example, clay soils possess more pore space than sandy soils. However, the smaller pore size slows
the rate at which water is absorbed and released and, therefore, clay soil has a lower capacity to store
water than sandy soils. The storage of water belowground allows for the fluctuation between
anaerobic and aerobic conditions that benefit environmental conditions necessary for microbial
cycling.
FLOOD STORAGE AND FLOOD FLOW MODIFICATION
This function is determined based on the ability of a wetland or stream at which the peak flow in a
watershed can be attenuated during major storm events and during peak domestic flows to take in
surface water that may otherwise cause flooding. This is dependent on the size of the wetland or
stream, the amount of water it can hold, and the location in the watershed. For instance, larger
wetlands or streams that have a greater capacity to receive waters have a greater ability to reduce
flooding. In addition, areas high in the watershed may have more ability to reduce flooding in
downstream areas, but areas lower in the watershed may have greater benefits to a specific area.
Vegetation, shape, and the configuration of the wetland or stream may also affect flood storage by
dissipating the energy of flows during flood events.
SEDIMENT RETENTION
Removal of sediment is the process that keeps sediments from migrating downstream. This is
accomplished through the natural process of sediment retention and entrapment. This function is
dependent on the sediment load being delivered by runoff into the watershed. Similar to above, the
vegetation, shape, and configuration of a wetland will also affect sediment retention if water is
detained for long durations, as would be the case with dense vegetation, a bowl-shaped watershed, or
slow-moving water. This function would be demonstrated (i.e., high) if the turbidity of the incoming
water is greater than that of the outgoing water.
L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C .L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C .L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C .L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C . J U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I NJ U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I NJ U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I NJ U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I N E A T I O NE A T I O NE A T I O NE A T I O N
M A Y 2 0 1 3M A Y 2 0 1 3M A Y 2 0 1 3M A Y 2 0 1 3 I K O N L I M I T E D I K O N L I M I T E D I K O N L I M I T E D I K O N L I M I T E D –––– C A R L S B A D P A R C E LC A R L S B A D P A R C E LC A R L S B A D P A R C E LC A R L S B A D P A R C E L
C A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I AC A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I AC A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I AC A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I A
P:\IKN1301-Ikon\JD\JD_Report.docx «5/23/2013» B-2
NUTRIENT RETENTION AND TRANSFORMATION
Nutrient cycling consists of two variables: uptake of nutrients by plants and detritus turnover, in
which nutrients are released for uptake by plants downstream. Wetland systems in general are much
more productive with regard to nutrients than upland habitats. The regular availability of water
associated with the wetland or stream may cause the growth of plants (nutrient uptake) and associated
detritivores and generate nutrients that may be utilized by a variety of aquatic and terrestrial wildlife
downstream.
TOXICANT TRAPPING
The major processes by which wetlands remove nutrients and toxicants are as follows: (1) by trapping
sediments rich in nutrients and toxicants, (2) by absorption into soils high in clay content or organic
matter, and (3) through nitrification and denitrification in alternating oxic and anoxic conditions.
Removal of nutrients and toxicants is closely tied to the processes that provide for sediment removal.
SOCIAL SIGNIFICANCE
This is a measure of the probability that a wetland or stream will be utilized by the public for its
natural features, economic value, official status, and/or location. This includes public use for
recreational uses, such as boating, fishing, birding, walking, and other passive recreational activities.
In addition, a wetland or stream that is utilized as an outdoor classroom, is a location for scientific
study, or is near a nature center would have a higher social significance standing.
WILDLIFE HABITAT
General habitat suitability is the ability of a wetland to provide habitat for a wide range of wildlife.
Vegetation is a large component of wildlife habitat. As plant community diversity increases along
with connectivity with other habitats, so does potential wildlife diversity. In addition, a variety of
open water, intermittent ponding, and perennial ponding is also an important habitat element for
wildlife.
AQUATIC HABITAT
The ability of a wetland or stream to support aquatic species requires that there be ample food supply,
pool and riffle complexes, and sufficient soil substrate. Food supply is typically in the form of aquatic
invertebrates and detrital matter from nearby vegetation. Pool and riffle complexes provide a variety
of habitats for species diversity as well as habitat for breeding and rearing activities. Species diversity
is directly related to the complexity of the habitat structure.
L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C .L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C .L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C .L S A A S S O C I A T E S , I N C . J U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I NJ U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I NJ U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I NJ U R I S D I C T I O N A L D E L I N E A T I O NE A T I O NE A T I O NE A T I O N M A Y 2 0 1 3M A Y 2 0 1 3M A Y 2 0 1 3M A Y 2 0 1 3 I K O N L I M I T E D I K O N L I M I T E D I K O N L I M I T E D I K O N L I M I T E D –––– C A R L S B A D P A R C E LC A R L S B A D P A R C E LC A R L S B A D P A R C E LC A R L S B A D P A R C E L C A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I AC A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I AC A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I AC A R L S B A D , C A L I F O R N I A P:\IKN1301-Ikon\JD\JD_Report.docx «5/23/2013» B-3 Table A-1: Functions and Values of Features within the Study Area Feature Hydrologic Regime Flood Storage & Flood Flow Modification Sediment Retention Nutrient Retention & Transformation Toxicant Trapping Social Significance Wildlife Habitat Aquatic Habitat Drainage and Associated Terraces Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate Low High High
LSA ASSOCIATES, INC. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES TECHNICAL REPORT
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APPENDIX E
SPECIAL-STATUS SPECIES SUMMARY TABLE
LSA ASSOCIATES, INC. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES TECHNICAL REPORT
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Special Status Species Summary Table
Species Status Habitat and Distribution Activity Period Occurrence Probability
Plants
Acanthomintha
ilicifolia
San Diego thorn-
mint
US: FT
CA: SE
CRPR: 1B.1
Annual herb endemic to active
vertisol clay soils of mesas and
valleys within grasslands,
chaparral, coastal scrub, and
vernal pool communities; known
from southwestern San Diego
County and Baja California; 30
to 3,150 feet elevation.
Blooms April
through June
(annual herb)
Not Expected. Suitable
habitat for this species is
not present within the BSA.
This species was not
observed during the original
2013 reconnaissance-level
survey and wetland
delineation, or 2014
assessment.
Acmispon
prostrates
Nuttall’s
acmispon
US: –
CA: SP
CRPR: 1B.1
Annual herb usually found in
beaches, coastal dunes, or coastal
sage scrub.
Blooms March
through June
(annual herb)
Not Expected. Suitable
habitat for this species is
not present within the BSA.
This species was not
observed during the original
2013 reconnaissance-level
survey and wetland
delineation, or 2014
assessment.
Adolphia
californica
California
adolphia
US: –
CA: SP
CRPR: 2B.1
Sandy/gravelly to clay soils
within grasslands, coastal sage
scrub, and chaparral
communities; known from
western San Diego County and
Baja California; 50 to 2,400 feet
elevation.
Blooms
December
through May
(perennial
deciduous shrub)
Low. Although marginally
suitable habitat is present
within the BSA, this
perennial shrub was not
observed during the original
2013 reconnaissance-level
survey and wetland
delineation, or 2014
assessment.
Arctostaphylos
glandulosa ssp.
crassifolia
Del Mar
manzanita
US: FE
CA: SP
CRPR: 1B.1
Sandy areas in maritime
chaparral and coniferous forest,
typically on coastal mesas and
ocean bluffs, below 1,200 feet
elevation. Known only from San
Diego County, California.
Blooms
December
through April,
with foliage year
round (evergreen
shrub)
Not Expected. Suitable
habitat for this species is
not present within the BSA.
Additionally, this evergreen
shrub was not observed
during the original 2013
reconnaissance-level survey
and wetland delineation, or
2014 assessment.
Artemisia palmeri
San Diego
sagewort
US: –
CA: SP
CRPR: 4.2
Perennial shrub found in
chaparral, coastal sage scrub,
riparian scrub, or riparian
woodland.
Blooms May
through
September
Low. Although marginally
suitable habitat is present
within the BSA, there have
been no documented
occurrences of this species
nearby. This perennial
shrub was not observed
during the original 2013
reconnaissance-level survey
and wetland delineation, or
2014 assessment.
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Special Status Species Summary Table
Species Status Habitat and Distribution Activity Period Occurrence Probability
Atriplex coulteri
Coulter’s saltbush
US: –
CA: SP
CRPR: 1B.2
Alkaline or clay soils in ocean
bluffs and ridge tops and alkaline
low places in coastal bluff scrub,
coastal dunes, coastal sage scrub,
and valley and foothill
grasslands below 1,510 feet
elevation. In California, known
only from Los Angeles, Orange,
Santa Barbara, San Bernardino,
San Luis Obispo, Ventura, and
San Diego Counties. Also occurs
in Mexico.
Blooms March
through October
(perennial herb)
Not Expected. Suitable
habitat for this species is
not present within the BSA.
This species was not
observed during the original
2013 reconnaissance-level
survey and wetland
delineation, or 2014
assessment.
Baccharis vanessae
Encinitas
baccharis
US: FT
CA: SE
CRPR: 1B.1
Sandstone soils in steep, open,
rocky areas in chaparral at 200 to
2,400 feet elevation. Known only
from San Diego County,
California.
Blooms August
through
November
(deciduous
shrub)
Not Expected. Suitable
habitat for this species is
not present within the BSA.
Additionally, this perennial
shrub was not observed
during the original 2013
reconnaissance-level survey
and wetland delineation, or
2014 assessment.
Brodiaea filifolia
Thread-leaved
brodiaea
US: FT
CA: SE
CRPR: 1B.1
Usually on clay or associated
with vernal pools or alkaline
flats; occasionally in vernally
moist sites in fine soils (clay
loam, silt loam, fine sandy loam,
loam, loamy fine sand).
Typically associated with
needlegrass or alkali grassland or
vernal pools. Occurs from 80 to
4,000 feet elevation. Known only
from Los Angeles, Orange,
Riverside, San Bernardino, San
Diego, and San Luis Obispo
Counties, California.
Blooms March
through June
(perennial herb)
Low. Although marginally
suitable habitat is present
within the BSA, there have
been no documented
occurrences of this species
nearby. This species was
not observed during the
original 2013
reconnaissance-level survey
and wetland delineation, or
2014 assessment.
Brodiaea orcuttii
Orcutt’s brodiaea
US: –
CA: SP
CRPR: 1B.1
Clay and some serpentine soils,
usually associated with meadows
or vernal pools, from 100 to
5,600 feet elevation. In
California, known only from
Riverside and San Diego
Counties. Also occurs in Mexico.
May through
July (perennial
herb)
Not Expected. Suitable
habitat for this species is
not present within the BSA.
This species was not
observed during the original
2013 reconnaissance-level
survey and wetland
delineation, or 2014
assessment.
Ceanothus
verrucosus
Wart-stemmed
ceanothus
US: –
CA: SP
CRPR: 2B.2
Chaparral in western San Diego
County and northern Baja
California; sea level to 1,250 feet
elevation.
December
through May
Not Expected. Suitable
habitat for this species is
not present within the BSA.
Additionally, this perennial
shrub was not observed
during the original 2013
reconnaissance-level survey
and wetland delineation, or
2014 assessment.
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Special Status Species Summary Table
Species Status Habitat and Distribution Activity Period Occurrence Probability
Chaenactis
glabriuscula var.
orcuttiana
Orcutt’s
pincushion
US: –
CA: SP
CRPR: 1B.1
Sandy areas of coastal
bluff scrub and coastal sand
dunes below 300 feet elevation.
In California, known only from
Los Angeles, Orange (believed
extirpated), San Diego, and
Ventura Counties. Also occurs in
Mexico.
Blooms January
through August
(annual herb)
Not Expected. Suitable
habitat for this species is
not present within the BSA.
This species was not
observed during the original
2013 reconnaissance-level
survey and wetland
delineation, or 2014
assessment.
Chorizanthe
orcuttiana
Orcutt’s
spineflower
US: FE
CA: SE
CRPR: 1B.1
Sandy openings in coastal scrub,
chaparral, and closed-cone
coniferous forest at 10 to 410
feet elevation. Known only from
San Diego County, California.
Blooms March
through May
(annual herb)
Not Expected. Suitable
habitat for this species is
not present within the BSA.
This species was not
observed during the original
2013 reconnaissance-level
survey and wetland
delineation, or 2014
assessment.
Chorizanthe
polygonoides var.
longispina
Long-spined
spineflower
US: –
CA: SP
CRPR: 1B.2
Gabbroic clay soils in chaparral,
coastal scrub, meadows and
seeps, valley and foothill
grassland at 95 to 5,020 feet
elevation. Occurs in Riverside
and San Diego Counties.
Blooms April
through July
(annual herb)
Not Expected. Suitable
habitat for this species is
not present within the BSA.
This species was not
observed during the original
2013 reconnaissance-level
survey and wetland
delineation, or 2014
assessment.
Comarostaphylis
diversifolia ssp.
diverifolia
Summer holly
US: –
CA: SP
CRPR: 1B.2
Chaparral or cismontane
woodland at 100 to 2,600 feet. In
California, known only from
Orange, Riverside, and Santa
Barbara, and San Diego
Counties. Also occurs in Mexico.
April through
June (evergreen
shrub)
Not Expected. Suitable
habitat for this species is
not present within the BSA.
This evergreens shrub was
not observed during the
original 2013
reconnaissance-level survey
and wetland delineation, or
2014 assessment.
Corethrogyne
filaginifolia var.
linifolia
Del Mar Mesa
sand aster
US: –
CA: SP
CRPR: 1B.1
Perennial herb found in openings
in chaparral and coastal sage
scrub.
Blooms May
through
September
Low. Although marginally
suitable habitat is present
within the BSA, there have
been no documented
occurrences of this species
nearby. This perennial
species was not observed
during the original 2013
reconnaissance-level survey
and wetland delineation, or
2014 assessment.
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P:\IKN1301-Ikon\BTR\Cascada Verde BTR_Final_Revised_102115.docx ((10/21/2015) E-4
Special Status Species Summary Table
Species Status Habitat and Distribution Activity Period Occurrence Probability
Cryptantha
wigginsii
Wiggins’
cryptantha
US: –
CA: SP
CRPR: 1B.2
Clay soils in coastal sage scrub. Blooms February
through June
Not Expected. Suitable
habitat for this species is
not present within the BSA.
This evergreens shrub was
not observed during the
original 2013
reconnaissance-level survey
and wetland delineation, or
2014 assessment.
Eryngium
aristulatum var.
parishii
San Diego button-
celery
US: FE
CA: SE
CRPR: 1B.1
San Diego mesa hardpan and
claypan vernal pools and southern
interior basalt flow vernal pools;
usually surrounded by coastal
scrub and valley and foothill
grassland, at 50 to 2,035 feet
elevation. Known from Riverside
and San Diego Counties and Baja
California.
Blooms April
through June
(annual/perennial
herb)
Not Expected. Suitable
habitat for this species is
not present within the BSA.
This species was not
observed during the original
2013 reconnaissance-level
survey and wetland
delineation, or 2014
assessment.
Euphorbia misera
Cliff spurge
US: –
CA: SP
CRPR: 2B.2
Rocky sites within coastal bluff
scrub, coastal sage scrub, and
Mojavean desert scrub at 30 to
1,650 feet elevation. Known
from the Channel Islands, coastal
Orange and San Diego Counties,
Riverside County deserts, and
Baja California.
Blooms
December
through August
(perennial shrub)
Not Expected. Suitable
habitat for this species is
not present within the BSA.
This species was not
observed during the original
2013 reconnaissance-level
survey and wetland
delineation, or 2014
assessment.
Ferocactus
viridescens
San Diego barrel
cactus
US: –
CA: SP
CRPR: 2B.1
Often on exposed, level, or
south-facing slopes within
chaparral, coastal scrub, and
grasslands at 10 to 1,500 feet
elevation. Known from
southwestern San Diego County
and Baja California.
Blooms May
through June
(perennial stem
succulent)
Low. Although marginally
suitable habitat is present
within the BSA, there have
been no documented
occurrences of this species
nearby. This perennial
species was not observed
during the original 2013
reconnaissance-level survey
and wetland delineation, or
2014 assessment.
Harpagonella
palmeri
Palmer’s
grapplinghook
US: –
CA: SP
CRPR: 4.2
Clay soils in openings in coastal
sage scrub, juniper woodland,
and grassland below 2,700 feet
elevation. In California, known
only from Orange, Riverside,
and San Diego Counties and the
Channel Islands. Also occurs in
Arizona and Mexico.
March through
May (annual
herb)
Not Expected. Suitable
habitat for this species is
not present within the BSA.
This evergreens shrub was
not observed during the
original 2013
reconnaissance-level survey
and wetland delineation, or
2014 assessment.
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Special Status Species Summary Table
Species Status Habitat and Distribution Activity Period Occurrence Probability
Hazardia orcuttii
Orcutt’s hazardia
US: –
CA: ST
CRPR: 1B.1
Perennial shrub found in
chaparral and coastal sage scrub.
Blooms August
through October
Low. Although marginally
suitable habitat is present
within the BSA, there have
been no documented
occurrences of this species
nearby. This perennial
shrub was not observed
during the original 2013
reconnaissance-level survey
and wetland delineation, or
2014 assessment.
Heterotheca
sessiliflora ssp.
sessiliflora
Beach goldenaster
US: –
CA: SP
CRPR: 1B.1
Sandy sites in coastal dunes,
coastal scrub, and chaparral
(coastal) below 4,020 feet
elevation. Known only from San
Diego County (primarily coastal)
and Baja California. Presumed
extirpated from Santa Barbara
County.
Blooms March
through
December
(perennial herb)
Not Expected. Suitable
habitat for this species is
not present within the BSA.
This species was not
observed during the original
2013 reconnaissance-level
survey and wetland
delineation, or 2014
assessment.
Isocoma menziesii
var. decumbens
Decumbent
goldenbush
US: –
CA: SP
CRPR: 1B.2
Sandy soils, often in disturbed
areas, in coastal scrub and
chaparral from 30 to 3,000 feet
elevation. Known from mainland
Orange and San Diego Counties
and from San Clemente and
Santa Catalina Islands in
California. Also occurs in Baja
California.
Blooms April
through
November
(perennial shrub)
Not Expected. Suitable
habitat for this species is
not present within the BSA.
This evergreens shrub was
not observed during the
original 2013
reconnaissance-level survey
and wetland delineation, or
2014 assessment.
Iva hayesiana
San Diego marsh-
elder
US: –
CA: SP
CRPR: 2B.2
Riverwashes, marshes, swamps,
and playas at 30 to 1,650 feet
elevation. Known from western
San Diego County and Baja
California.
Blooms April
through October
(perennial shrub
or subshrub)
Present. This species was
observed during the 2013
and 2014 surveys.
Lasthenia glabrata
ssp. coulteri
Coulter’s
goldfields
US: –
CA: SP
CRPR: 1B.1
Usually alkaline soils in marshes,
playas, vernal pools, and valley
and foothill grassland below
4,600 feet elevation. Known
from Colusa, Merced, Tulare,
Orange, Riverside, Santa
Barbara, San Diego, San Luis
Obispo, and Ventura Counties.
Believed extirpated from Kern,
Los Angeles, and San
Bernardino Counties. Also
occurs in Mexico.
Blooms February
through June
(annual herb)
Not Expected. Suitable
habitat for this species is
not present within the BSA.
This species was not
observed during the original
2013 reconnaissance-level
survey and wetland
delineation, or 2014
assessment.
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Special Status Species Summary Table
Species Status Habitat and Distribution Activity Period Occurrence Probability
Lepidium
virginicum var.
robinsonii
Robinson’s
pepper-grass
US: –
CA: SP
CRPR: 4.3
Dry soils in coastal sage scrub
and chaparral, typically below
3,100 feet elevation. In
California, known only from Los
Angeles, Orange, Riverside,
Santa Barbara, San Bernardino,
and San Diego Counties.
Blooms January
through July
(annual herb)
Low. Although marginally
suitable habitat is present
within the BSA, there have
been no documented
occurrences of this species
nearby. This species was
not observed during the
original 2013
reconnaissance-level survey
and wetland delineation, or
2014 assessment.
Leptosyne
maritima
Sea dahlia
US: –
CA: SP
CRPR: 2B.2
Occurs in a variety of soil types,
including sandstone, within
coastal scrub and coastal bluff
scrub at 15 to 500 feet elevation.
Known from coastal San Diego
County and Baja California.
Blooms March
through May
(perennial herb)
Low. Although marginally
suitable habitat is present
within the BSA, there have
been no documented
occurrences of this species
nearby. This species was
not observed during the
original 2013
reconnaissance-level survey
and wetland delineation, or
2014 assessment.
Myosurus minimus
ssp. apus
Little mousetail
US: –
CA: SP
CRPR: 3.1
Alkaline areas in vernal pools at
20 to 640 meters (70 to 2,100
feet) elevation. In California,
known only from the Central
Valley of the coastal and inland
areas of Southern California.
Also occurs in Oregon and
Mexico.
Blooms March
through June
(annual herb)
Not Expected. Suitable
habitat for this species is
not present within the BSA.
This species was not
observed during the original
2013 reconnaissance-level
survey and wetland
delineation, or 2014
assessment.
Navarretia fossalis
Spreading
navarretia
US: FT
CA: SP
CRPR: 1B.1
San Diego hardpan and claypan
vernal pools often surrounded by
chenopod scrub, shallow
freshwater marshes, and similar
sites at 95 to 4,300 feet
elevation. Known from Los
Angeles, San Luis Obispo,
Riverside, and San Diego
Counties. Also occurs in Mexico.
Blooms April
through June
(annual herb)
Not Expected. Suitable
habitat for this species is
not present within the BSA.
This species was not
observed during the original
2013 reconnaissance-level
survey and wetland
delineation, or 2014
assessment.
Nemacaulis
denudate var.
denudate
Coast woolly-
heads
US: –
CA: SP
CRPR: 1B.2
Sandy places such as coastal
dunes below 300 feet elevation.
Known in California from
Orange, Los Angeles, and San
Diego Counties. Believed
extirpated from Santa Catalina
Island. Also occurs in Mexico.
April through
September
(annual herb)
Not Expected. Suitable
habitat for this species is
not present within the BSA.
This species was not
observed during the original
2013 reconnaissance-level
survey and wetland
delineation, or 2014
assessment.
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Special Status Species Summary Table
Species Status Habitat and Distribution Activity Period Occurrence Probability
Orcuttia
californica
California Orcutt
grass
US: FE
CA: SE
CRPR: 1B.1
Vernal pools from 50 to 2,200
feet elevation. In California,
known from Los Angeles,
Ventura, Riverside, and San
Diego Counties. Also occurs in
Mexico.
Blooms April
through August
(annual grass)
Not Expected. Suitable
habitat for this species is
not present within the BSA.
This species was not
observed during the original
2013 reconnaissance-level
survey and wetland
delineation, or 2014
assessment.
Orobanche parishii
ssp. brachyloba
Parish’s
broomrape
US: –
CA: SP
CRPR: 4.2
Perennial herb (parasitic) found
in coastal bluff scrub, coastal
dunes, and coastal sage scrub.
Blooms April
through October
Not Expected. Suitable
habitat for this species is
not present within the BSA.
This species was not
observed during the original
2013 reconnaissance-level
survey and wetland
delineation, or 2014
assessment.
Quercus dumosa
Nuttall’s scrub oak
US: –
CA: SP
CRPR: 1B.1
On sandy and clay loam soils
near the coast within closed-cone
coniferous forest, chaparral, and
coastal scrub from 50 to 1,300
feet elevation. Known from
western Orange, Santa Barbara,
and San Diego Counties. Also
known from Baja California.
Blooms February
through August
(perennial
evergreen shrub)
Low. Although marginally
suitable habitat is present
within the BSA, there have
been no documented
occurrences of this species
nearby. This perennial
species was not observed
during the original 2013
reconnaissance-level survey
and wetland delineation, or
2014 assessment.
Suaeda esteroa
Estuary seablite
US: –
CA: SP
CRPR: 1B.2
In clay, silt, and sand substrates
of coastal salt marshes below 15
feet elevation. Occurs along
immediate coast from Santa
Barbara County to Baja
California.
Blooms May
through January
(perennial herb)
Not Expected. Suitable
habitat for this species is
not present within the BSA.
This species was not
observed during the original
2013 reconnaissance-level
survey and wetland
delineation, or 2014
assessment.
Invertebrates
Branchinecta
sandiegonensis
San Diego fairy
shrimp
US: FE
CA: SA
Small, shallow (usually less than
30 centimeters deep), relatively
clear but unpredictable vernal
pools on coastal terraces. Pools
must retain water for a minimum
of 13 days for this species to
reproduce (3 to 8 days for
hatching, and 10 to 20 days to
reach reproductive maturity).
Known from Orange and San
Diego Counties, and Baja
California.
Seasonally
following rains
in late fall,
winter and spring
Not Expected. Habitat
within the BSA is not
suitable to support this
species.
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Special Status Species Summary Table
Species Status Habitat and Distribution Activity Period Occurrence Probability
Cicindela senilis
frosti
Senile tiger beetle
US: –
CA: SA
Inhabits marine shoreline, from
central California coast south to
salt marshes of San Diego, also
found at Lake Elsinore. Inhabits
dark-colored mud in the lower
zone and dried salt pans in the
upper zone.
Presumed spring
through fall
Not Expected. Habitat
within the BSA is not
suitable to support this
species.
Danaus plexippus
Monarch
butterfly
US: –
CA: SA
Winter roosts are located in
wind-protected tree groves
(Eucalyptus, Monterey Pine,
Cypress) with nectar and water
sources nearby.
September
through March
Moderate. Suitable
roosting habitat (eucalyptus
trees) is present within the
BSA.
Streptocephalus
woottoni
Riverside fairy
shrimp
US: FE
CA: SA
Warm-water vernal pools (i.e.,
large, deep pools that retain
water into the warm season) with
low to moderate dissolved solids,
in annual grassland areas
interspersed through chaparral or
coastal sage scrub vegetation.
Suitable habitat includes some
artificially created or enhanced
pools, such as some stock ponds,
that have vernal pool like
hydrology and vegetation.
Known from areas within about
50 miles of the coast from
Ventura County south to San
Diego County and Baja
California.
Seasonally,
following rains;
typically January
through April
Not Expected. Habitat
within the BSA is not
suitable to support this
species.
Tryonia imitator
Mimic tryonia
(=California
brackishwater
snail)
US: –
CA: SA
Inhabits coastal lagoons,
estuaries, and salt marshes, from
Sonoma County south to San
Diego County. Found only in
permanently submerged areas in
a variety of sediment types; able
to withstand a wide range of
salinities.
Presumed year-
round
Not Expected. Habitat
within the BSA is not
suitable to support this
species.
Reptiles
Aspidoscelis
hyperythra
Orangethroat
whiptail
US: –
CA: SSC
Prefers washes and other sandy
areas with patches of brush and
rocks, in chaparral, coastal sage
scrub, juniper woodland, and oak
woodland from sea level to 3,000
feet elevation. Perennial plants
required. Occurs in Riverside,
Orange, San Diego Counties
west of the crest of the
Peninsular Ranges, in extreme
southern San Bernardino County
near Colton, and in Baja
California.
March through
July, with
reduced activity
August through
October
Low. Although marginally
suitable habitat is present
within the BSA, there have
been no documented
occurrences of this species
nearby. This species was
not observed during the
original 2013
reconnaissance-level survey
and wetland delineation, or
2014 assessment.
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Special Status Species Summary Table
Species Status Habitat and Distribution Activity Period Occurrence Probability
Phrynosoma
blainvillii
Coast horned
lizard
US: –
CA: SSC
Occurs in annual grassland,
coastal sage scrub, chaparral, and
woodland communities. Prefers
open country, especially sandy
areas, washes, and floodplains.
Requires open areas for sunning,
bushes for cover, patches of
loose soil for burial, and an
abundant supply of ants or other
insects. Occurs in Siskiyou
County, in the Central Valley
and adjacent foothills below
4,000 feet elevation, in coastal
areas of central California, and in
non-desert areas of southern
California below 6,000 feet
elevation, and into Baja
California.
April through
July, with
reduced activity
August through
October
Low. Although marginally
suitable habitat is present
within the BSA, there have
been no documented
occurrences of this species
nearby. This species was
not observed during the
original 2013
reconnaissance-level survey
and wetland delineation, or
2014 assessment.
Birds
Aimophila ruficeps
canescens
Southern
California rufous-
crowned sparrow
US: –
CA: WL
Steep, rocky, coastal sage scrub
and open chaparral habitats,
particularly scrubby areas mixed
with grasslands. From Santa
Barbara County to northwestern
Baja California.
Year-round,
diurnal activity
Low. Although marginally
suitable habitat is present
within the BSA, there have
been no documented
occurrences of this species
nearby.
Campylorhyncus
brunneicapillus
sandiegensis
San Diego cactus
wren
US: –
CA: SSC
Inhabits coastal sage scrub,
nesting almost exclusively in
thickets of cholla (Opuntia
prolifera) and prickly pear
(Opuntia littoralis and Opuntia
oricola), typically below 500 feet
elevation. Found in coastal areas
of Orange County and San Diego
Counties, and extreme
northwestern Baja California,
Mexico.
Year-round
(non-migratory)
Not Expected. Habitat
within the BSA is not
suitable to support this
species.
Charadrius
alexandrinus
nivosus
(nesting)
Western snowy
plover
US: FT
(coastal
population)
CA: SSC
Sandy coastal beaches, lakes,
alkaline playas. Scattered
locations along coastal California
and Channel Islands, inland at
Salton Sea and at various
alkaline lakes.
Coast: Year-
round Inland
lakes: April
through
September
Not Expected. Habitat
within the BSA is not
suitable to support this
species.
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Special Status Species Summary Table
Species Status Habitat and Distribution Activity Period Occurrence Probability
Laterallus
jamaicensis
coturniculus
California black
rail
US: –
CA: ST,
CFP
Requires shallow water in salt
marshes, freshwater marshes,
wet meadows, or flooded grassy
vegetation. Prefers areas of moist
soil vegetated by fine-stemmed
emergent plants, rushes, grasses,
or sedges, with scattered small
pools. Known from coastal
California, northwestern Baja
California, the lower Imperial
Valley, and the lower Colorado
River of Arizona and California.
Now extirpated from virtually all
of coastal Southern California.
Year-round Not Expected. Believed to
be extirpated from San
Diego County. Habitat
within the BSA is not
suitable to support this
species.
Passerculus
sandwichensis
beldingi
Belding’s
Savannah
sparrow
US: –
CA: SE
Resident in salt marshes, with
rare exception (e.g., Islas Todos
Santos, Baja California), of
Pacific Coast from Santa Barbara
County to Baja California.
Year-round Not Expected. Habitat
within the BSA is not
suitable to support this
species.
Polioptila
californica
californica
Coastal California
gnatcatcher
US: FT
CA: SSC
Inhabits coastal sage scrub in
low-lying foothills and valleys in
cismontane southwestern
California and Baja California.
Year-round Moderate. Suitable habitat
is present within the BSA;
however, no individuals of
this species were detected
during the original 2013
reconnaissance-level survey
and wetland delineation,
2013 protocol-level coastal
California gnatcatcher
Surveys, or 2014
assessment.
Rallus longirostris
levipes
Light-footed
clapper rail
US: FE
CA: SE,
CFP
Found in salt marshes traversed
by tidal sloughs, where cordgrass
and pickleweed are the dominant
vegetation. Requires dense
growth of either pickleweed or
cordgrass for nesting or escape
cover; feeds on mollusks and
crustaceans. Coastal southern
California and northern Baja
California.
Year-round,
vocalizes at
night, dawn, and
dusk
Not Expected. Habitat
within the BSA is not
suitable to support this
species.
Sternula antillarum
browni
(nesting)
California least
tern
US: FE
CA: SE,
CFP
Nests along the coast from San
Francisco Bay south to northern
Baja California. Forages in
shallow water. Colonial breeder
on bare or sparsely vegetated,
flat substrates: sand beaches,
alkali flats, landfills, or paved
areas.
April through
September
Not Expected. Habitat
within the BSA is not
suitable to support this
species.
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Special Status Species Summary Table
Species Status Habitat and Distribution Activity Period Occurrence Probability
Vireo bellii pusillus
Least Bell’s vireo
US: FE
CA: SE
Riparian forests and willow
thickets. The most critical
structural component of least
Bell’s vireo habitat in California
is a dense shrub layer 2 to 10 feet
above ground. Nests from central
California to northern Baja
California. Winters in southern
Baja California.
April through
September
Moderate. Suitable habitat
for this species is present
within the BSA. It was not
detected during the original
2013 reconnaissance-level
survey and wetland
delineation, 2013 protocol-
level coastal California
gnatcatcher Surveys, or
2014 assessment.
Mammals
Chaetodipus
californicus
femoralis
Dulzura pocket
mouse
US: –
CA: SSC
Found in a variety of habitats
including coastal sage scrub,
chaparral and grassland in
northern Baja California, San
Diego and extreme southwestern
and western Riverside Counties.
Limit of range to northwest (at
interface with C. c. dispar)
unclear.
Year-round Not Expected. Habitat
within the BSA is likely too
fragmented to support this
species.
Chaetodipus fallax
fallax
Northwestern San
Diego pocket
mouse
US: –
CA: SSC
Found in sandy herbaceous
areas, usually associated with
rocks or coarse gravel in coastal
scrub, chaparral, grasslands, and
sagebrush, from Los Angeles
County through southwestern
San Bernardino, western
Riverside, and San Diego
Counties to northern Baja
California.
Year-round Not Expected. Habitat
within the BSA is likely too
fragmented to support this
species.
Choeronycteris
mexicana
Mexican long-
tongued bat
US: –
CA: SSC
Occasionally found in San Diego
County, which is on the
periphery of their range. Feeds
on nectar and pollen of night-
blooming succulents. Roosts in
relatively well-lit caves, and in
and around buildings.
Year-round Low. Conditions within the
BSA are likely not suitable
for roosting, but foraging
individuals may
occasionally visit the site.
Lasionycteris
noctivagans
Silver-haired bat
US: –
CA: SA
Inhabits forested areas, where it
forages in small clearings, along
roadways and water-courses, and
among trees. Generally roosts in
trees but occasionally enters
buildings or caves. Prefers old
growth areas with snag densities
of at least 21 per hectare. Range
extends from extreme north-
eastern Mexico north to Alaska
and east to the Atlantic Coast.
Primarily the
warmer months
Moderate. Suitable
roosting and foraging
habitat for this species is
present within the BSA. Not
detected during surveys.
Lasiurus
blossevillii
Western red bat
US: –
CA: SSC
Forages over a wide range of
habitats, but generally roosts in
woodlands and forests. Ranges
throughout most of California
west of the deserts.
Primarily the
warmer months
Moderate. Suitable
roosting and foraging
habitat for this species is
present within the BSA. Not
detected during surveys.
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Special Status Species Summary Table
Species Status Habitat and Distribution Activity Period Occurrence Probability
Lasiurus cinereus
Hoary bat
US: –
CA: SA
Forages over a wide range of
habitats, but prefers open
habitats with access to trees, for
roosting, and water. Ranges
throughout most of California.
Primarily the
warmer months;
leaves colder
areas during
winter
Moderate. Suitable
roosting and foraging
habitat for this species is
present within the BSA. Not
detected during surveys.
Lasiurus xanthinus
Western yellow
bat
US:
CA: SSC
Varied habitats, but usually near
water; often associated with
palm trees. Southwestern United
States to southern Mexico.
Primarily the
warmer months
Moderate. Suitable
roosting and foraging
habitat for this species is
present within the BSA. Not
detected during surveys.
Neotoma lepida
intermedia
San Diego desert
woodrat
US: –
CA: SSC
Found in desert scrub and coastal
sage scrub habitat, especially in
association with cactus patches.
Builds stick nests around cacti,
or on rocky crevices. Occurs
along the Pacific slope from San
Luis Obispo County to northwest
Baja California.
Year-round,
mainly
nocturnal,
occasionally
crepuscular and
diurnal
Not Expected. Habitat
within the BSA is not
suitable to support this
species.
Nyctinomops
femorasacca
Pocketed free-
tailed bat
US: –
CA: SSC
Usually associated with cliffs or
rock outcrops, often near riparian
habitat. Occurs from the
southwestern United States to
central Mexico.
Primarily the
warmer months
Low. Conditions within the
BSA are likely not ideal for
roosting, but foraging
individuals may
occasionally visit the site.
Nyctinomops
macrotis
Big free-tailed bat
US: –
CA: SSC
Primarily arid regions from
southwestern United States to
northern South America.
Primarily the
warmer months
Not Expected. Habitat
within the BSA is not
suitable to support this
species.
Perognathus
longimembris
pacificus
Pacific pocket
mouse
US: FE
CA: SSC
Historically occupied open
habitats on sandy soils along the
coast from Los Angeles to the
Mexican border. Now known
from only four sites in Orange
and San Diego Counties.
April through
September
Not Expected. Habitat
within the BSA is not
suitable to support this
species.
LEGEND
US: Federal Classifications
– No applicable classification
FE Taxa listed as Endangered.
FT Taxa listed as Threatened.
CA: State Classifications
SE Taxa State-listed as Endangered.
ST Taxa State-listed as Threatened.
SSC California Species of Special Concern. Refers to animals with vulnerable or seriously declining populations.
CFP California Fully Protected. Refers to animals protected from take under Fish and Game Code Sections 3511,
4700, 5050, and 5515.
WL California Bird Species of Special Concern Watch List.
SA Special Animal. Refers to any other animal monitored by the Natural Diversity Data Base, regardless of its
legal or protection status.
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LEGEND
SP Special Plant. Refers to any other plant monitored by the Natural Diversity Data Base, regardless of its legal or
protection status.
1B California Rare Plant Rank 1B: Rare, threatened, or endangered in California and elsewhere.
2B California Rare Plant Rank 2B: Rare, threatened, or endangered in California, but more common elsewhere.
3 California Rare Plant Rank 3: A review list of plants about which more information is needed.
4 California Rare Plant Rank 4: A watch list of plants of limited distribution.
CRPR Extensions
0.1 Seriously endangered in California (greater than 80% of occurrences threatened/high degree and
immediacy of threat).
0.2 Fairly endangered in California (20 to 80% occurrences threatened).
0.3 Not very endangered in California (less than 20% of occurrences threatened).
California Rare Plant Ranks are assigned by a committee of government agency and non-governmental botanical experts and are not official
State designations of rarity status.
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APPENDIX F
SITE PHOTOGRAPHS
Photograph 2:Photograph 1:
Photograph 4:Photograph 3:
Cascada Verde Residential Development Project
I:\IKN1301\G\Site_Photos-1&2_BTR.cdr (3/6/15)
Site Photographs
Sheet 1 of 2
View of riparian woodland associated with
the drainage, facing west. Non-jurisdictional
eucalyptus woodland is shown in the
background.
View of the southern border of the Study
Area, facing south.
View of a remnant developed area located
near the southern end of the Study Area,
facing north. The ground is covered with
brick, inhibiting the growth of vegetation.
View of one of the channelized braids, facing
south.
Photograph 6:Photograph 5:
Photograph 7:Photograph 8:
View of a remnant developed area (see
awning) located in the southern portion
portion of the Study Area, facing southwest.
View of the southwestern corner of the Study
Area , facing south.
View of the southern end of the Study Area,
facing southeast.
View of Study Area from the northeastern
cornier, facing southwest.
Cascada Verde Residential Development Project
I:\IKN1301\G\Site_Photos-1&2_BTR.cdr (3/6/15)
Site Photographs
Sheet 2 of 2