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Section 7 Biological Assessment
Fitzgerald Marine ReserveSan Mateo County, California
Prepared For:
Sam Herzberg
San Mateo County Parks Department
455 County Center, 4th Floor
Redwood City, CA 94063
650-363-1823
Prepared By:
Tim DeGraff, PWS
Date:
February 2010
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1.0 INTRODUCTION.....................................................................................................................11.1 Critical Habitat ............................................................................................................21.2 Consultation to Date ...................................................................................................3
2.0 BACKGROUND.......................................................................................................................32.1 Project Location and Site Description.........................................................................32.2 Plant Communities .....................................................................................................3
2.2.1 Methods........................................................................................................32.2.2 Results...............................................................................................................4
2.3 Soils............................................................................................................................42.4 Hydrology ...................................................................................................................5
3.0 DESCRIPTION OF ACTION TO BE CONSIDERED...............................................................53.1 Project Description.........................................................................................................53.2 Project Schedule............................................................................................................5
4.0 DESCRIPTION OF FEDERALLY-LISTED SPECIES AND CRITICAL HABITAT ...................64.1 California Red-legged Frog ........................................................................................64.1.1 Life History and Distribution............................................................................6
4.1.2 Onsite Surveys...............................................................................................74.1.3 Potential for Occurrence.................................................................................7
4.2 San Francisco Garter Snake ......................................................................................84.2.1 Life History and Distribution............................................................................84.2.2 Onsite Surveys...............................................................................................84.2.3 Potential for Occurrence.................................................................................8
5.0 MANNER IN WHICH ACTION MAY AFFECT LISTED SPECIES...........................................95.1 Delineation of Action Area ..........................................................................................95.2 Analysis of Direct Effects............................................................................................9
5.2.1
California Red Legged Frog............................................................................9
5.2.2 San Francisco Garter Snake..........................................................................95.3 Analysis of Indirect Effects .......................................................................................10
5.3.1 California Red Legged Frog..........................................................................105.3.2 San Francisco Garter Snake........................................................................10
5.4 Analysis of Interrelated Effects .................................................................................105.5 Analysis of Interdependent Effects ...........................................................................105.6 Analysis of Cumulative Effects .................................................................................115.7 Mitigation Measures .................................................................................................11
6.0 DETERMINATION OF EFFECT...............................................................................147.0 REFERENCES.........................................................................................................15APPENDIX A - Table of Potential Federal-Listed Species ..........................................................16APPENDIX B - Project Figures......................................................................................................1APPENDIX C Photographs of Study Area..................................................................................2APPENDIX D - Species Observed Within the Study Area ............................................................3
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1.0INTRODUCTION
The purpose of this Biological Assessment is to describe the proposed construction activities(Project) at the Fitzgerald Marine Reserve located in Moss Beach, San Mateo County, California(Study Area) in sufficient detail to determine to what extent the proposed action may affect any ofthe threatened, endangered, candidate, or proposed candidate species listed in Appendix A.
Based upon the impact analysis included herein, mitigation measures are recommended tominimize take of the listed species determined to be affected by the proposed Project. Of themany species with potential to occur in the general region, only two species have the potential tooccur in the Study Area: California Red-legged Frog (Rana draytonii) and San Francisco GarterSnake (Thamnophis sirtalis tetrataenia). This Biological Assessment is prepared in accordancewith legal requirements set forth under Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act (16 U.S.C.1536 (c)).
Table1: Federal-listed species considered in this document
Common Name/Scientific Name/Federal Status Effect Determination
San Mateo thornmint (Acanthomintha duttonii) E None
fountain thistle (Cirsium fontinale var. fontinale) E None
Santa Cruz cypress (Cupressus abramsiana) E None
San Mateo woolly sunflower (Eriophyllum latilobum) E None
Marin dwarf-flax (=western flax) (Hesperolinon congestum) T None
San Francisco lessingia (Lessingia germanorum) E None
white-rayed pentachaeta (Pentachaeta bellidiflora) E None
Hickman's potentilla (=cinquefoil) (Potentilla hickmanii) E None
bay checkerspot butterfly (Euphydryas editha bayensis) T None
black abalone (Haliotes cracherodii) C None
white abalone (Haliotes sorenseni) E None
mission blue butterfly (Icaricia icarioides missionensis) E None
San Bruno elfin butterfly (Incisalia mossii bayensis) E None
Callippe silverspot butterfly (Speyeria callippe callippe) E None
Myrtle's silverspot butterfly (Speyeria zerene myrtleae) E None
Green Sturgeon (Acipenser medirostris) T None
Tidewater Goby (Eucyclogobius newberryi) E None
Coho Salmon - Central CA Coast (Oncorhynchus kisutch) E None
Central California Coastal Steelhead (Oncorhynchus mykiss) T None
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Common Name/Scientific Name/Federal Status Effect Determination
Central Valley Spring-run Chinook Salmon (Oncorhynchustshawytscha) T
None
Winter-run Chinook Salmon, Sacramento River (Oncorhynchustshawytscha) E
None
California Tiger Salamander (Ambystoma californiense) T None
California Red-legged Frog (Rana draytonii) T Yes
San Francisco Garter Snake (Thamnophis sirtalis tetrataenia) E Yes
Marbled Murrelet (Brachyramphus marmoratus) T None
Western Snowy Plover (Charadrius alexandrinus nivosus) T None
California Brown Pelican (Pelecanus occidentalis californicus) E None
California Clapper Rail (Rallus longirostris obsoletus) E None
California Least Tern (Sternula antillarum(=Sterna, =albifrons) browni)E
None
Salt Marsh Harvest Mouse (Reithrodontomys raviventris) E None
Guadalupe Fur Seal (Arctocephalus townsendi) T None
Southern Sea Otter (Enhydra lutris nereis) T None
Steller (=northern) Sea-lion (Eumetopias jubatus) T None
The analysis included herein concludes that the Project may adversely affect the California Red-legged Frog (CRLF) and San Francisco Garter Snake (SFGS). However, the proposed
avoidance, minimization, and mitigation measures proposed by the applicant are sufficient tooffset the proposed action.
Due to the lack of suitable habitat within the Study Area, it was determined that the proposedProject would not adversely San Mateo thornmint, fountain thistle, Santa Cruz cypress, SanMateo woolly sunflower, Marin dwarf-flax (=western flax), white-rayed pentachaeta, baycheckerspot butterfly, black abalone, white abalone, mission blue butterfly, San Bruno elfinbutterfly, Callippe silverspot butterfly, Myrtle's silverspot butterfly, Green Sturgeon, TidewaterGoby, Coho Salmon - Central CA Coast, Central California Coastal Steelhead, Central ValleySpring-run Chinook Salmon, Winter-run Chinook Salmon - Sacramento River, California TigerSalamander, Marbled Murrelet, Western Snowy Plover, California Brown Pelican, CaliforniaClapper Rail, California Least Tern, Salt Marsh Harvest Mouse, Guadalupe Fur Seal, Southern
Sea Otter and Steller (=northern) Sea-lion.
1.1 Critical Habitat
The Study Area is not designated as Critical Habitat or proposed Critical Habitat for any listedspecies.
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1.2 Consultation to Date
On October 8, 2008 Michelle Haven of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS)participated in a conference call regarding the proposed Project and sent recommendedmitigation measures for California Red-legged Frog and San Francisco Garter Snake for theStudy Area. This report includes the majority of those measures, provides information requested
by USFWS and includes additional information necessary for USFWS to issue a BiologicalOpinion.
2.0 BACKGROUND
2.1 Project Location and Site Description
The James V. Fitzgerald Marine Reserve is a 402-acre natural resources area on the northerncoast of San Mateo County (Figure 1). Designated as a reserve in 1969, approximately 130,000people visit annually, the main draws being the local tidepools and marine life. Offshore of thereserve is the James V. Fitzgerald State Marine Park, which lies within the Monterey Bay
National Marine Sanctuary. The Pacific Ocean borders the Study Area to the west, privateresidences border it to the north and south and a hotel, and a plant nursery and residence borderit to the east. The Half Moon Bay Airport lies approximately 1/4 mile to the southeast and PillarPoint Harbor marina lies just to the south of the airport.
The Reserve includes 370 acres of intertidal and sub tidal marine habitat and 32 acres of uplandhabitat bluffs, with elevations up to 100 feet. The northern upland area of the Reserve isdistinguished by a 90-year old grove of Monterey Cypress originally planted as a windbreak. Tothe north and south of this grove, the Reserve is a broad band of shoreline with intermittentbeaches and coastal bluffs. A small visitor center/office and a parking area are located on NorthLake Street within the Moss Beach neighborhood, adjacent to the Moss Beach Reef and SanVicente Creek.
2.2 Plant Communities
2.2.1 Methods
Plant Survey
On April 30 and July 28, 2009, WRA, Inc. conducted protocol level rare plant surveys within theStudy Area. The site visit occurred during the blooming period for San Francisco lessingia(Lessingia germanorum) and Hickman's potentilla (Potentilla hickmanii).
Plant Community Mapping
To determine the habitat suitability for federally listed plant and wildlife species within the StudyArea, WRA defined and mapped the plant communities. During the August 13 and September17, 2008 site visits, the extent of each plant community was visually determined on the ground.The composition of plant species within each plant community was then determined. Thecomposition of the plant communities are described below and the locations are illustrated inFigure 2.
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2.2.2 Results
Plant Survey
No special status plant species, including San Francisco lessingia and Hickmans potentilla, wereobserved within the Study Area during the April and July site visits. A comprehensive list of plant
species observed within the Study Area is included in Appendix D.
Plant Community Mapping
Coastal freshwater marsh, northern coastal scrub, and central coast arroyo willow riparian forest(Holland 1986) comprise the most extensive natural community types within the Study Area. Acypress grove and areas of invasive species occur within the property.
Coastal freshwater marsh within the Study Area is dominated by panicled bulrush (Scripusmicrocarpus, OBL) and coast carex (Carex obnupta, OBL). This vegetation type occurs withinSan Vicente Creek.
The northern coastal scrub habitat along the cliffs of the Study Area is dominated coyote bush(Baccharis pilularis), California sage (Artemisia californica), poison oak (Toxicodendrondiversilobum) and California blackberry (Rubus ursinus, FAC).
The central coast arroyo willow riparian forest within the Study Area is dominated by arroyowillow (Salix lasiolepis, FACW). This vegetation type occurs along the banks of San VicenteCreek
A Monterey cypress (Cupressus macrocarpa) grove covers the majority of the property. The treecanopy is predominantly composed of Monterey cypress with some eucalyptus (Eucalyptusglobulus) scattered throughout. The understory of the grove is bare and has a thick layer of leaflitter.
Non-native vegetation areas occur near the riparian communities and pedestrian pathwaysassociated with San Vicente Creek and the beach access. Non-natives occurring in these areasinclude thick leaved pittosporum (Pittosporum crassifolium) and iceplant (Carpobrotus edulis).
2.3 Soils
The Soil Survey of San Mateo County, Western Part (USDA 1991), indicates that the Study Areais underlain primarily by two soil mapping units:130, Typic Argiustolls, 0 to 5 percent slopes andBeaches.
130, Typic Argiustolls, 0 to 5 percent slopes
This map unit is located on coastal terraces with slopes ranging from 5 to 15 percent.Composition of this soil unit is 50 percent Typic Argiustolls, loamy, and 30 percent Urban Land.Native vegetation typically occurring in association with this soil type are annual grasses, forbs,and scattered brush.
Typic Arguistolls, loamy, are deep and well drained, formed in alluvium derived from coastalsediment. The surface layer is grayish brown and dark grayish brown sandy loam or sandy clayloam approximately 10 to 20 inches thick. The subsoil is clay loam, sandy clay loam, clay, or
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sandy clay to a depth of 60 inches or more. On the lower terraces, soils have higher claycontent. Permeability is moderately slow or slow in the Typic Argiustolls, and available watercapacity is high. Effective rooting depth is 60 inches or more, runoff is medium, and the hazardof water erosion is moderate. This unit is used mainly for recreational and urban development oras wildlife habitat.
Urban Land consists of areas covered by asphalt, concrete, buildings, and other structures. Thematerial covered by these structures consists of soils that are characteristically similar to TypicArgiustolls.
138, Beaches
The Beach series is an entirely hydric soil that occurs along the coastal boundary of the StudyArea. Typically, this soil type does not support woody vegetation, and is not suitable foragriculture uses.
2.4 Hydrology
The Study Area ranges in elevation from approximately sea level feet to 100 feet above meansea level. The hydrology of the Study Area is primarily driven by direct precipitation, runoff fromsurrounding areas, and flow from watershed associated with San Vicente Creek. San VicenteCreek runs along and near the northern border of the Study Area, crossing the property to thePacific Ocean. Sediment from upstream has accrued in the lower portion of San Vicente Creek,resulting in increased vegetation and wetland habitats near the mouth of the creek.
With the exception of the San Vicente Creek corridor, the Study area consists of an elevatedplateau covered in Monterey cypress, which slopes downward and east to the existing trail.
3.0 DESCRIPTION OF ACTION TO BE CONSIDERED
3.1 Project Description
The purpose of the proposed project is to improve access to the beach and the observationareas of the Fitzgerald Marine Reserve. Improvements and maintenance to the trail leadingdown to the observation area, observation deck, and beach access have been designed toincrease safety and stability, as well as create an ADA compliant resource for visitors. Inaddition, the proposed project includes the design of a one mile section of the California CoastalTrail and, as part of trail design, a clear span bridge over San Vicente Creek.
3.2 Project Schedule
The construction window for the proposed Project will be from approximately May 1 throughDecember 31. Project initiation will commence once funding has been attained, potentially in2010 or 2011.
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time of the year, adult red-legged frogs may move from breeding sites. They can be encounteredliving within streams at distances exceeding 1.8 miles from the breeding site and have beenfound greater than 1,640 feet from water, but are typically within 328 feet of water (Bulger et al.2003).
The nearest CRLF occurrence is approximately one mile to the east of the Study Area (Figure 3).
In addition, another occurrence is located approximately 1.5 miles to the southeast. Bothoccurrences are within the dispersal capabilities of the frog. Both occurrence sites were visitedduring the initial site visit in 2008 and CRLF presence was confirmed at both locations.
Highway 1 may be a dispersal barrier due to traffic during commute hours, but there is nophysical, stationary barrier such as K-rail or a fixed center divide. Other than the traffic patternsof Highway 1, the population of CRLF and SFGS on the east side of Highway 1 do not havesignificant barriers. Both water features associated with the nearest occurrences are surroundedby agricultural fields and open space. In addition, the culvert that carries San Vicente Creekunderneath Highway 1 is large and passable and may also help facilitate terrestrial movementunder the highway (Photo Appendix).
The Airport Street population of CRLF has relatively few barriers between it and the Study Area,and no barriers if a route is taken along Airport Street. In addition, a large basin occurs half wayin between the two locations which may facilitate dispersal or even provide potential breedinghabitat. This feature was dry during the initial site visit but may hold water long enough tofacilitate dispersal, and possibly breeding, during the winter months. Historic photo analysisindicates that this feature was a permanent water body in the past, showing open water in 1946,1956, 1968, 1980 and 1987. No water was observed in photos of this feature from 1991, 1992,1993, 2002 or 2005. It is assumed that this feature may have provided suitable CRLF breedinghabitat, and subsequently suitable SFGS breeding habitat, for at least 40 years. With thehydrology of this habitat altered in the last twenty years, the nearest available perennial habitat isin San Vicente Creek in the Study Area. Thus the Study Area is considered potential habitat forthese species because it is within their dispersal capabilities and may also contain a remnant
population from this historic basin. High winter water flows in San Vicente Creek likely precludeCRLF breeding attempts but this feature may provide year round non-breeding aquatic habitat.
4.1.2 Onsite Surveys
No surveys have been done to date for the CRLF in the Study Area. The nearest occurrence isapproximately 0.9 miles to the east (CNDDB 2009).
4.1.3 Potential for Occurrence
The water feature on the Seal Cove Inn property adjacent to the Study Area is suitable dispersaland foraging habitat for both SFGS and CRLF, however, it is unknown whether this feature has
the proper hydrology for CRLF breeding. Dozens of Sierran Treefrog (Pseudacris sierra)metamorphs were observed adjacent to the pond during the site visit. It is assumed that thesefrogs bred in this water feature. Treefrog eggs generally hatch in one to five weeks, and tadpolesrequire standing water for periods long enough to complete their aquatic development, whichvaries from a month at warmer localities, to three or more months at high elevations in the Sierra(Zeiner, 1990). This would indicate a minimum ponding duration of at least five weeks for thiswater feature. A ponding duration of five months and a depth of two feet is typically associatedwith CRLF breeding habitat (Jennings et al. 1993).
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4.2 San Francisco Garter Snake4.2.1 Life History and Distribution
Historically, SFGS occurred in scattered wetland areas on the San Francisco Peninsula fromapproximately the San Francisco County line south along the eastern and western bases of the
Santa Cruz Mountains, at least to the Upper Crystal Springs Reservoir, and along the coastsouth to Ao Nuevo Point, San Mateo County, and Waddell Creek, Santa Cruz County. Thepreferred habitat of the SFGS is a densely vegetated pond near an open hillside where they cansun themselves, feed, and find cover in rodent burrows; however, considerably less idealhabitats can be successfully occupied. Temporary ponds and other seasonal freshwater bodiesare also used. Emergent and bankside vegetation such as cattails (Typha spp.), bulrushes(Scirpus spp.) and spike rushes (Juncus spp.and Eleocharis spp.) apparently are preferred andused for cover. The area between stream and pond habitats and grasslands or bank sides isused for basking; while nearby dense vegetation or water often provide escape cover. Snakesalso use floating algal or rush mats, if available.
There are two significant components to SFGS habitat: 1) ponds that support the CRLF,
American Bullfrog (Rana catesbeiana), and the Sierran Treefrog and 2) the surrounding uplandthat supports the Botta's Pocket Gopher (Thomomys bottae) and the California Meadow Vole(Microtus californicus) (USFWS 2006). Ranid frogs are an obligate component of the SFGS's diet(USFWS 2006).
Specific information on the home range/territory of the SFGS subspecies is unknown. InManitoba, Canada the same species moved an average of 10.7 km (USFWS 1985). TheSFGS's home range would probably be less and determined by site conditions (food availability,cover, etc.) (USFWS 1985). Studies at Ano Nuevo State Reserve found the mean distance offemale hibernacula to the Visitor Center Pond was 459 feet, with a maximum distance of 637feet. Distances of greater than 637 feet have been reported, including an unconfirmed distanceof approximately 1000 feet (McGinnis et al. 1987).
4.2.2 Onsite Surveys
No on site surveys have been done for the SFGS. The nearest occurrence is approximately 1.3miles to the east (CNDDB 2009).
4.2.3 Potential for Occurrence
The nearest SFGS occurrence is approximately 1.3 miles to the east (Figure 3). San VicenteCreek, the temporary pond adjacent to the Study Area and a majority of the uplands within theStudy Area provide suitable dispersal and foraging habitat for this species. Details regardingnearby aquatic features and dispersal potential for SFGS are discussed in the CRLF life history
section above.
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5.0 MANNER IN WHICH ACTION MAY AFFECT LISTED SPECIES
5.1 Delineation of Action Area
The Action Area refers to all areas to be affected directly or indirectly by the Federal action and
not merely the immediate area involved in the action. [50 CFR 402.02]. The limit of theproposed Project Action Area is depicted on Figure 4. The delineation of the Action Areaaccounts for impacts associated with ground disturbance, changes to surface water and groundwater quantity and quality, air quality impacts, lighting effects, and noise disturbance. The limitsof ground disturbance are based upon the approximate limit of temporary vegetation removalneeded for construction activities. For the purposes of this consultation, the Action Area isdefined as all barrier free habitat within 2.22 miles of the proposed Project and all areas within theproposed Project boundaries.
Changes to surface water quality and quantity, as well as ground water quality and quantity, arenot anticipated due to the implementation of Project BMPs and mitigation measures. In addition,air quality impacts are anticipated to be minimal, localized within the immediate Study Area, and
associated with the construction phase of the proposed Project. No long-term or significant airquality impacts will occur following the construction of the proposed Project. No lighting effectsare anticipated since all work will be conducted during daylight hours.
5.2 Analysis of Direct Effects
Direct effects are those effects cause directly by the proposed Project.
5.2.1 California Red Legged Frog
Construction activities associated with the proposed trail have the potential to directly affectCRLF. Construction activities could result in direct mortality or injury and harassment of CRLF.
CRLF may be injured or killed during vegetation removal or movement of work crews andequipment. In addition, the visual and auditory disturbances cause by the nature of the workmay cause CRLF to leave the vicinity, increasing the risk of encounters with predators, vehicles,people and pets.
No permanent impacts will occur in non-breeding aquatic and dispersal habitat (San VicenteCreek) and 0.01 acre will be temporarily impacted because of construction activities for theproposed trail (Figure 5). In addition, approximately 0.33 acres of upland habitat will bepermanently impacted and 0.32 acres will be temporarily impacted.
5.2.2 San Francisco Garter Snake
Construction activities associated with the proposed trail have the potential to directly affectSFGS. Construction activities could result in direct mortality or injury and harassment of SFGS.SFGS may be injured or killed during vegetation removal or movement of work crews andequipment. In addition, the visual and auditory disturbances cause by the nature of the work
2Dispersing frogs in northern Santa Cruz County traveled distances up to 3600 meters (2.2 miles) without
apparent regard to topography, vegetation type, or riparian corridors (Bulger, et al. 2003). Maximumdispersal distance of SFGS is currently unknown; however, it is assumed SFGS can disperse at least1,000 ft based on unconfirmed evidence from an Ano Nuevo study.
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may cause SFGS to leave the vicinity, increasing the risk of encounters with predators, vehicles,people and pets.
No permanent impacts will occur within aquatic foraging and dispersal habitat (San VicenteCreek) and 0.01 acre will be temporarily impacted because of construction activities for the
proposed trail (Figure 5). In addition, approximately 0.33 acres of upland habitat will bepermanently impacted and 0.32will be temporarily impacted.
Table 2. Temporary and Permanent Impacts to CRLF and SFGS Habitat.
Habitat Type Permanent Impacts Temporary ImpactsCRLF Non-breeding Aquatic - 0.01 acreCRLF Upland and Dispersal 0.33 acre 0.32 acreSFGS Aquatic Foraging - 0.01 acreSFGS Upland and Dispersal 0.33 acre 0.32 acre
5.3 Analysis of Indirect Effects
Indirect effects are those caused by or will result from the proposed action later in time, but arestill reasonably certain to occur.
5.3.1 California Red Legged Frog
Future increase in trail use as a result of the proposed Project has the potential to indirectlyaffect CRLF. An increase in trail use may increase human encounters with CRLF andsubsequently increase the potential for harm or harassment. In addition, an increase in humantraffic may cause CRLF to leave the vicinity, increasing the risk of encounters with predators,vehicles, people and pets in the nearby neighborhood of Moss Beach.
5.3.2 San Francisco Garter Snake
Future increase in trail use as a result of the proposed Project has the potential to indirectlyaffect SFGS. An increase in trail use may increase human encounters with SFGS andsubsequently increase the potential for harm or harassment. In addition, an increase in humantraffic may cause SFGS to leave the vicinity, increasing the risk of encounters with predators,vehicles, people and pets in the nearby neighborhood of Moss Beach.
5.4 Analysis of Interrelated Effects
Interrelated actions are those actions that are part of the primary action and dependent upon thatprimary action for their justification. No interrelated effects are expected as a result of the
Project.
5.5 Analysis of Interdependent Effects
Interdependent actions are those actions that have no independent utility apart from the primaryaction. Construction, maintenance and use of a road required to access a site is an example ofinterdependent effect. No interdependent effects are expected as a result of the Project becauseall construction and maintenance activities are considered under the primary action.
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5.6 Analysis of Cumulative Effects
Cumulative effects are those effects of future state or private activities, not involving federalactivities, which are reasonably certain to occur within the Action Area of the federal actionsubject to consultation. No cumulative effects are expected as a result of the Project.
5.7 Mitigation Measures
The applicant proposes to offset the Project impacts to CRLF and SFGS through several means,including construction employee education, construction mitigation measures, and post-construction monitoring/restoration. The following measures are recommended to preventimpacts to sensitive herpetofauna:
At least 10 days prior to the onset of activities, the applicant or Project proponent shallsubmit the name(s) and credentials of biologists who would conduct activities specified in thefollowing measures. No Project activities shall begin until Project proponents have receivedwritten approval from the USFWS that the biologist(s) is qualified to conduct the work.
A USFWS-approved biologist shall survey the work site immediately before the onset ofactivities. If CRLF, tadpoles, or eggs are found, the approved biologist shall contact the USFWSto determine if moving any of these life-stages is appropriate. In making this determination, theUSFWS will consider if an appropriate relocation site exists. If the USFWS approves movinganimals, the approved biologist will be allowed sufficient time to move them from the work sitebefore work activities begin. Only USFWS-approved biologists shall participate in activitiesassociated with the capture, handling, and monitoring of CRLF. Any SFGS shall be allowed toleave the work area of their own accord, and shall be monitored as practical by the biologist toensure they do not reenter the work area.
Prior to the start of groundbreaking activities, all construction personnel will receive
training on listed species and their habitats by a USFWS-approved biologist. The importance ofthese species and their habitat will be described to all employees as well as the minimization andavoidance measures that are to be implemented as part of the Project. An educational brochurecontaining color photographs of all listed species in the work area(s) will be distributed to allemployees working within the Project site(s). The original list of employees who attend thetraining sessions will be maintained by the applicant and be made available for review by theUSFWS upon request.
Wildlife exclusion fencing will be erected and maintained around the perimeter of theProject and Project staging areas to prevent SFGS and CRLF from entering the site. Installationof the fence will be performed under the supervision of a USFWS-approved biologist. Once thefencing is installed, workers will clear all vegetation within this area with belt driven weed
whackers or other hand tools to a height of four to six inches. Following the removal ofvegetation, preconstruction surveys will be performed prior to the start of any ground breakingactivities by a USFWS-approved biologist. Fencing will be equipped with one-way escapefunnels. Fencing will extend a minimum of 36-inches above ground level and will be buried fourinches to six inches into the ground. Exclusion fencing will be checked a minimum of one timeper week by biological monitors for the duration of the Project to identify problems orweaknesses in fence integrity and function. All compromised portions will be repaired and/orreplaced immediately. Upon completion of the Project, all fencing material will be removed fromthe site and disposed of properly.
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A USFWS-approved biologist shall be present at the work site until such time as allremoval of CRLF and/or SFGS, instruction of workers, and habitat disturbance have beencompleted. After this time, the contractor or permittee shall designate a person to monitor on-sitecompliance with all minimization measures. The USFWS-approved biologist shall ensure that
this individual (on-site biological monitor) receives training outlined in measure three above andin the identification of CRLF and SFGS. The on-site biological monitor and the USFWS-approvedbiologist shall have the authority to halt any action that might result in impacts that exceed thelevels anticipated by the Corps and USFWS during review of the proposed action. If work isstopped, the Corps and USFWS shall be notified immediately by the USFWS-approved biologistor on-site biological monitor.
The on-site biological monitor(s) will remain on-site for the duration of the proposedProject, including vegetation removal, grading and cleanup activities. If a CRLF or SFGS isobserved at any time, the on-site biological monitor will have the authority to halt work on theProject site until these animals are no longer within the work area. If construction activities areoccurring at more than one location at a time, each area must have a minimum of one on-site
biological monitor present to increase the likelihood that listed species are detected.
All best management practices prescribed by the San Mateo County planning office forwork within sensitive habitat areas will be implemented to the full extent.
Designated construction staging areas will be utilized as the staging areas for the trailand bridge construction activities. All vehicles associated with Project activities will be clusteredwithin these areas at the end of each work day or when not in use to minimize habitatdisturbance and water quality degradation. Before vehicles move from the staging areas at thestart of each work day or before they return to this location at the end of each work day, the on-site biological monitor will check under the vehicles and their tires to ensure no listed species areutilizing the equipment as temporary shelter.
Tightly woven fiber netting or similar material shall be used for erosion control or otherpurposes at the Project to ensure that the CRLF and SFGS do not get trapped. This limitation willbe communicated to the contractor. Plastic mono-filament netting (erosion control matting),rolled erosion control products or similar material shall not be used at the Project site becausered-legged frog, garter snake, and other species may become entangled or trapped in it.
No lighting will be incorporated at any location into the Project design.
To discourage recreational users from leaving designated trails, interpretive signsdescribing the sensitivity of the habitat and how to utilize the property in an ecologically sensitivemanner will be placed at trailheads and wetlands adjacent to enhanced trails. If rehabilitated
trails show continued signs of usage, the applicant will implement additional preventativemeasures, such as the installation of additional signage or fencing. Trailhead signs will alsodescribe the importance of prohibitions on unrestrained domestic pets and the associated finesfor violating these laws.
No trash shall be deposited on the site during construction activities. All trash shall beplaced in trash receptacles with secure lids or stored in vehicles.
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Fueling and maintenance of equipment will be conducted off-site and at least 50 feet fromany wetland.
Because CRLF and SFGS may take refuge in cavity-like and den-like structures such aspipes and may enter stored pipes and become trapped, all construction pipes, culverts, or similar
structures that are stored at a construction site for one or more overnight periods will be eithersecurely capped prior to storage or thoroughly inspected by the on-site biologist and/or theconstruction foreman/manager for these animals before the pipe is subsequently buried, capped,or otherwise used or moved in any way. If a red-legged frog is discovered inside a pipe by theon-site biologist or anyone else, the on-site biologist shall move the animal to a safe nearbylocation and monitor it until it is determined that it is not imperiled by predators or other dangers.If a SFGS is found, it should be allowed to passively leave the work area on its own, asdetermined by the on-site biologist, or moved by a SFGS permitted biologist with permissionfrom USFWS and CDFG.
To prevent inadvertent entrapment of CRLF and SFGS during construction, the on-sitebiologist and/or construction foreman/manager shall ensure that all excavated, steep-walled
holes or trenches more than one foot deep are completely covered at the close of each workingday by plywood or similar materials, or provided with one or more escape ramps constructed ofearth fill or wooden planks and inspected by the on-site biologist. Before such holes or trenchesare filled, they will be thoroughly inspected for trapped animals by the on-site biologist and/orconstruction foreman/manager. If at any time a trapped CRLF or SFGS is discovered by the on-site biologist or anyone else, it should be allowed to passively leave the work area on its own, asdetermined by the on-site biologist, or moved by a SFGS permitted biologist with permissionfrom USFWS and CDFG.
Permanent and temporary disturbances and other types of Project-related disturbance tothe habitats of the garter snake shall be minimized to the maximum extent practicable. Tominimize temporary disturbances, all Project-related vehicle traffic shall be restricted to
established roads, construction areas, and other designated areas. These areas should beestablished in locations disturbed by previous activities to prevent further adverse effects.
California Red Legged Frog
Preconstruction surveys for the CRLF will be performed by USFWS-approved biologiststhroughout the action area immediately prior to groundbreaking activities. If a CRLF is observed,a USFWS-approved biologist will remove these individuals to locations outside of the work areabut within the greater property boundary. Red-legged frogs will not be removed from the vicinityor remain in captivity over night unless in the care of a certified wildlife veterinarian.
Under no circumstances will mosquito fish (Gambusia affinis) be introduced at any
location within the Study Area. If pesticide application for mosquito abatement becomesnecessary, the applicant will contact the USFWS and the San Mateo mosquito abatement districtfor further guidance.
Upon completion of the construction and rehabilitation phases of the proposed Project,the applicant will monitor the property regularly and according to a USFWS-approved monitoringplan to ensure the successful establishment of native plants in all restored areas. Any plantspecies observed in these areas determined to be invasive will be removed.
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Because dusk and dawn are often the times when CRLF are most actively foraging anddispersing, all construction activities should cease one half hour before sunset and should notbegin prior to one half hour before sunrise.
San Francisco Garter Snake
Preconstruction surveys for the SFGS will be performed by USFWS-approved biologiststhroughout the action area immediately prior to groundbreaking activities. If at any time duringthe survey, vegetation removal, or construction phases of the proposed Project a SFGS isobserved within the action area, the animal will be allowed to passively leave the work areaunless in circumstances where the animal is determined to be trapped as discussed above.
All vegetation removed during trail construction activities will remain on-site uponcompletion of trail development. A portion of this vegetation will be utilized to facilitate therehabilitation of the existing unofficial trails. The remainder of the removed vegetation will bebundled into small piles and placed near on-site aquatic areas to provide cover for local SFGS.
6.0 DETERMINATION OF EFFECT
The analysis included herein concludes that the proposed Project may adversely affect CRLFand SFGS. However, through careful analysis of the biological resources within the Study Area,the applicant has developed a site plan for the Project that avoids and minimizes impacts toFederal-listed species within the vicinity of the Study Area. Numerous protection measures havebeen incorporated into the proposed Project design. The implementation of the proposedmeasures described above and additional input from USFWS will assure protection of thesespecies and ensure that the Project will not jeopardize the continued existence of these species.
Due to the lack of suitable habitat within the Study Area, it was determined that the proposed
Project would not adversely San Mateo thornmint, fountain thistle, Santa Cruz cypress, SanMateo woolly sunflower, Marin dwarf-flax (=western flax), white-rayed pentachaeta, baycheckerspot butterfly, black abalone, white abalone, mission blue butterfly, San Bruno elfinbutterfly, Callippe silverspot butterfly, Myrtle's silverspot butterfly, Green sturgeon, Tidewatergoby, Coho Salmon - central CA coast, Central California Coastal steelhead, Central Valleyspring-run Chinook salmon, Winter-run Chinook salmon, Sacramento River, California tigersalamander, Marbled Murrelet, Western Snowy Plover, California Brown Pelican, CaliforniaClapper Rail, California Least Tern, Salt marsh harvest mouse, Guadalupe Fur Seal, SouthernSea Otter and Steller (=northern) Sea-lion.
In addition, the action addressed within this Biological Assessment does not fall within CriticalHabitat for any federally-listed species. Therefore, none will be adversely modified or destroyed.
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7.0 REFERENCES
Bulger, J.B., Scott, N.J., and Seymour, R.B. 2003. Terrestrial activity and conservation of adultCalifornia red-legged frogs Rana aurora draytonii in coastal forests and grasslands.Biological Conservation 110:8595.
California Department of Fish and Game, Biogeographic Data Branch (CDFG). 2009. CaliforniaNatural Diversity Database (CNDDB). Sacramento.
California Native Plant Society (CNPS). 2007. Plant Species Accounts.http://cnps.web.aplus.net/cgi-bin/inv/inventory.cgi
Fellers, G. 2005. Rana draytonii Baird and Girard, 1852b California red-legged frog. Pages552-554 in M. Lannoo (ed.). Amphibian declines the conservation status of United Statesspecies. University of California Press, Berkeley, California.
Holland, R.F. 1986. Preliminary descriptions of the terrestrial natural communities of
California. State of California, The Resources Agency.
Jennings, M. R., M. P. Hayes and D. C. Holland. 1993. A petition to the U. S. Fish and WildlifeService to place the California Red-legged Frog (Rana aurora draytonii) and the WesternPond Turtle (Clemmys marmorata) on the list of endangered and threatened wildlife andplants.
McGinnis, S., P. Keel, and E, Burko. 1987. The use of upland habitats by snake species at AnoNuevo State Reserve. Report to California Department of Fish and Game, Sacramento,California. 13 pp.
USDA (United States Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service),
1991. Soil Survey of San Mateo County, Eastern Part, and San Francisco County,California.
USFWS. 2009. Federally Endangered and Threatened Species List, San Mateo County.http://www.fws.gov/sacramento/es/spp_lists/auto_list.cfmUSFWS. 2008b. SpeciesAccounts. http://www.fws.gov/sacramento/es/spp_info.htm
USFWS. 2006. Formal Consultation on the Mori Point Restoration and Trail Plan in the GoldenGate National Recreation Area in the City of Pacifica, San Mateo County, California.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 1985. Recovery Plan for the San Francisco Garter Snake(Thamnophis sirtalis tetrataenia). U.S. Fish and Wildl. Serv., Portland, OR. 77 pp.
Zeiner, D. C., W. F. Laudenslayer, Jr., K. E. Mayer, and M. White. 1990. California'sWildlife, Volume I-III: Amphibians and Reptiles, Birds, Mammals. California StatewideWildlife Habitat Relationships System, California Department of Fish and Game,Sacramento.
Zeiner, D. C., W. F. Laudenslayer, Jr., K. E. Mayer, and M. White. 1990. California's Wildlife,Volume I-III: Amphibians and Reptiles, Birds, Mammals. California Statewide WildlifeHabitat Relationships System, California Department of Fish and Game, Sacramento.
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APPENDIX A - Table of Potential Federal-Listed Species
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A-17
Appendix A. Federal endangered, threatened and candidate species known to occur in San MateoUSFWS species lists (USFWS 2009), USFWS species accounts (USFWS 2009), and California Nativaccounts (CNPS 2009).
SPECIES STATUS* HABITAT POTEN
Mammals
Salt Marsh Harvest MouseReithrodontomys raviventris
FE Primary habitat in pickleweed-dominatedsaline emergent marshes of San FranciscoBay. Require adjacent upland areas forescape from high tides.
No Potenot pres
Guadalupe Fur SealArctocephalus townsendi
FT Breeds on Isla de Guadalupe off the coastof Mexico, occasionally found on SanMiguel, San Nicolas, and San Clementeislands. Prefers shallow, nearshore islandwater with cool and sheltered rocky areasfor haul-outs.
No Potarea.
Southern Sea OtterEnhydra lutris nereis
FT Nearshore marine environments from aboutAo Nuevo, San Mateo County. To PointSal, Santa Barbara County. Needscanopies of giant kelp and bull kelp forrafting and feeding. Prefers rockysubstrates with abundant invertebrates.
Presentobservecoast of
Steller Sea-lionEumetopias jubatus
FT Breeds on Ao Nuevo, San Miguel andFarallon islands, Point Saint George, andSugarloaf. Hauls-out on islands and rocks.Needs haul-out and breeding sites withunrestricted access to water, near aquaticfood supply and with no human disturbance.
No Potarea.
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A-18
Birds
California Brown PelicanPelecanus occidentalis
californicus
FE Found in estuarine, marine subtidal, andmarine pelagic waters along the coast.
Nest on rocky or low brushy slopes ofundisturbed islands.
UnlikelyStudy A
Marbled MurreletBrachyramphus marmoratus
FT Breeds in old-growth redwood standscontaining platform-like branches along thecoast.
UnlikelyStudy A
California Clapper RailRallus longirostris obsoletus
FE Found in tidal salt marshes of the SanFrancisco Bay. Require mudlfats forforaging and dense vegetation on higherground for nesting.
Not Prhabitat present
Western Snowy PloverCharadrius alexandrinusnivosus
FT Found on sandy beaches, salt pond leveesand shores of large alkali lakes. Needsandy gravelly or friable soils for nesting.
Unlikelyto nest breeding
howevethe shor
California Least TernSterna antillarum browni
FE Breeding colonies in San Francisco Bayfound in abandoned salt ponds and alongestuarine shores. Nests on barren tosparsely vegetated site near water.
Unlikelycontain this spforage o
Reptiles and Amphibians
California Tiger SalamanderAmbystoma californiense
FT Inhabits annual grass habitat and mammalburrows. Seasonal ponds and vernal poolscrucial to breeding
Not Preupland Study A
California Red-legged Frog
Rana aurora draytonii
FT Associated with quiet perennial to
intermittent ponds, stream pools andwetlands. Prefers shorelines with extensivevegetation. Documented to dispersethrough upland habitats after rains.
Modera
pond adprovide habitat in the suitable
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A-19
San Francisco Garter SnakeThamnophis sirtalistetrataenia
FE Vicinity of freshwater marshes, ponds andslow moving streams in San Mateo Countyand extreme northern Santa Cruz County.Prefers dense vegetative cover and waterdepths of at least one foot. Upland areas
near water are important habitat features.
Moderapond adprovide this speStudy
estivatio
Fish
Green SturgeonAcipenser medirostris
FT Spawn in the Sacramento River and theKlamath River. Spawn at temperaturesbetween 8-14 degrees C. Preferredspawning substrate is large cobble, but canrange from clean sand to bedrock.
Not Prehabitat p
Coho Salmon- Central CACoastOncorhynchus kisutch
FE Federal listing includes populationsbetween Punta Gorda and San LorenzoRiver. State listing includes populationssouth of San Francisco Bay only. Occurs
inland and in coastal marine waters.Requires beds of loose, silt-free, coarsegravel for spawning. Also needs cover, coolwater and sufficient dissolved oxygen.
Not Prehabitat p
Central California CoastalSteelheadOncorhynchus mykissirideus
FT Federal listing includes all runs from theRussian River, south to Soquel Creek,inclusive. Includes the San Francisco andSan Pablo Bay basins but excludes theSacramento-San Joaquin River basins.Adults migrate upstream to spawn in cool,clear, well-oxygenated streams. Juvenilesremain in fresh water for 1 or more years
before migrating downstream to the ocean
Not Prehabitat p
Central Valley Spring-runChinook SalmonOncorhynchus tshawytscha
FT Federal listing includes populationsspawning in the Sacramento River & itstributaries. Adults migrate upstream tospawn in cool, clear, well-oxygenated riversand streams.
Not Prehabitat p
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A-20
Winter-run Chinook Salmon,Sacramento RiverOncorhynchus tshawytscha
FE Prior to the construction of Shasta Dam,likely spawned in the headwaters of theSacramento, in streams fed mainly by theflow of constant-temperature springs.Currently spawn in the mainstem of the
Sacramento from Redding downstream toTehama. Adults migrate upstream to spawnin cool, clear, well-oxygenated streams.
Not Prehabitat p
Tidewater GobyEucyclogobius newberryi
FE Found in the brackish waters of coastallagoons, marshes, creeks, and estuaries.Unique among fishes of the Pacific coast,gobies are restricted to waters of lowsalinity in coastal wetlands. They feed alongthe bottom, preferring clean, shallow, slow-moving waters.
Not Prehabitat p
Invertebrates
Bay checkerpsot butterflyEuphydryas editha bayensis
FT Restricted to native grasslands on outcropsof serpentine soil in the vicinity of SanFrancisco Bay. Plantago erecta is theprimary host plant.
Unlikelynear the
Callippe silverspot butterflySpeyeria callippe callippe
FE The callippe silverspot is found in nativegrassland and adjacent habitats. Johnny
jump-up (Viola pedunculata), is the primaryhost plant. The species was knownhistorically to occur in seven populations inthe San Francisco Bay region, including theinner coast range from northwestern ContraCosta County south to the Castro Valley
area in Alameda County.
Unlikelynear the
Myrtle's silverspot butterflySpeyeria zerene myrtleae
FE Foggy, coastal dunes and hills of the PointReyes Peninsula.
Not PreMateo C
mission blue butterflyIcaricia icarioidesmissionensis
FE Grasslands of the San Francisco Peninsula.Host plants are three species of lupine, ofwhich Lupinus albifrons is preferred.
Unlikelynear the
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A-21
San Bruno elfin butterflyIncisalia mossii bayensis
FE Colonies are located on steep, north-facingslopes in the vicinity of San Brunomountain, San Mateo County. Larval hostplant is Sedum spathulifolium.
Unlikelynear the
black abaloneHaliotes cracherodii
FC Ranges from Cabo San Lucas toMendocino County. Found in intertidal andshallow subtidal areas.
Presentoccur inof the S
white abaloneHaliotes sorenseni
FE White abalone is the first marineinvertebrate to be listed under the ESA andis reported to be most abundant between25-30 m (80-100 ft depth).
No Potarea.
Plants
San Mateo thornmintAcanthomintha duttonii
FE Chaparral, valley and foothill grassland,often on serpentine soils. 50-300m.Blooms April-June.
Unlikelynative gSerpentthe Proj
fountain thistleCirsium fontinale var.fontinale
FE Chaparral, cismontane woodlands, valleyand foothill grasslands, often in serpentiniteseeps. 90-175m elevation. Blooms June-Oct.
Unlikelynative gSerpentthe Proj
Santa Cruz cypressCupressus abramsiana
FE Closed-cone coniferous forest, chaparral,lower montane coniferous forest, often insandstone or granitic areas. 280-800 melevation.
Not Preobserveduring s
San Mateo woolly sunflowerEriophyllum latilobum
FE Cismontane woodland, often on roadcuts,on and off of serpentine, 45-150 melevation. Blooms May-June.
No Potoccurs w
Marin dwarf-flax (=western
flax)Hesperolinon congestum
FT Chaparral and valley and foothill grassland
on serpentine soils. 5- 370 m. Blooms April-July.
Unlikely
native gSerpentthe Proj
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A-22
San Francisco lessingiaLessingia germanorum
FE Coastal scrub, possibly in remnant dunehabitat. 25-90m. Blooms July-November.
Not Prehabitat Area. Thduring th
white-rayed pentachaetaPentachaeta bellidiflora
FE Valley and foothill grassland (often onserpentine soil) and cismontane woodland.35- 620 m. Blooms March- May.
Unlikelynative gSerpentthe Proj
Hickman's potentilla(=cinquefoil)Potentilla hickmanii
FE Coastal bluff scrub, closed-cone coniferousforest, meadows and seeps, freshwatermarshes and swamps. 10-135m. BloomsApril-August.
Not Prehabitat Area. Tduring surveys
* FE = Federal Endangered, FT = Federal Threatened, FC = Federal Candidate
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APPENDIX B - Project Figures
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1
Date: October 2009Map By: Sundaran GillespieFilepath:l:/Acad2000/18000/18054/
gis/Arcmap/Location Map.mxd
Figure 1. Location Map
Fitzgerald Marine Reserve
Half Moon Bay, CA
0 0.2 0.40.1Miles
San MateoCounty
San FranciscoCounty
280
80
101
101
35
82
1
92
35
Study Area
StudyArea
Cypress
AveVe
rmont
Ave
N.LakeSt.
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Date: December 2008Image Date: 04-01-07Image Source: TerraserverMap By: Sundaran GillespieFilepath: l:\ACAD2000\18054\GIS\ArcMap*.m
Fitzgerald Marine R
Moss Beach,California
2169-G East Francisco San Rafael, CA 9490(415) 454-8868 Phon
(415) 454-0129 Fax
0 100 2050
Figure 2. BiologCommunities M
Study Area: 22.5 acres
High Tide Line
San Vicente Creek: 0.11 acre
Non-Native Annual Grassland: 0.21 acre
Disturbed Perrenial Herbaceous: 1.88 acres
Developed/Landscaped: 1.30 acres
Invasive Plant Community: 0.36 acre
Eucalyptus/Monterey Cypress: 0.38 acre
Northern Coastal Scrub: 1.63 acres
Monterey Cypress: 14.09 acres
Seasonal Wetland: 0.003 acre
Central Coast Arroyo WillowRiparian Forest: 0.72 acre
Coastal Freshwater Marsh: 0.09 acre
Native Strawberry: 0.11 acre
Beach: 0.49 acre
Sea Cliff: 1.19 acres
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Date: September 2008Image Date: 04-01-07Image Source: TerraserverMap By: Sundaran GillespieFilepath: l:\ACAD2000\18054\GIS\ArcMap\Wild
Fitzgerald Marine Re
Moss Beach,California
Figure 3.Federally List
Species Occurreand Potential Ha
Length:1.61Miles
Length:0.57Miles
Lengt
h:1.42Mil
esLeng
th:1.04M
iles
Length
:0.85M
iles
Leng
th:0.94
Mile
s
2169-G East Francisco BSan Rafael, CA 9490(415) 454-8868 Phon
(415) 454-0129 Fax
0 800400
Legend
Study Area
CRLF Occurrence Pond
SFGS Occurrence/CRLF Habitat Pond
Potential or Historic CRLF Habitat Pond
CRLF/SFGS Corridor
SFGS 1000' Buffer
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Date: October 2009Image Date: 2005Image Source: NAIPMap By: Sundaran GillespieFilepath: l:\ACAD2000\18054\GIS\ArcMap\Wild
Fitzgerald Marine Re
Moss Beach,California
Figure 4.
Delineation ofAction Area
2169-G East Francisco BSan Rafael, CA 9490(415) 454-8868 Phon
(415) 454-0129 Fax
0 0.50.25
Miles
Study Area
SFGS & CRLF Action Area
ActionArea
Study Area
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Date: January 2010Image Date: 04-01-07Image Source: TerraserverMap By: Michael RochelleFilepath: l:\ACAD2000\18054\GIS\ArcMap*.mx
Fitzgerald Marine R
Moss Beach,California
CRLF & SFGSImpact Map
2169-G East Francisco San Rafael, CA 9490(415) 454-8868 Phon
(415) 454-0129 Fax
0 15075
Study Area
Extent of Temporary Impacts
Extent of Permanent Impacts
CRLF Non-breeding Aquatic/SFGS Aquatic Foraging Habitat (0.11
CRLF & SFGS Dispersal/Upland Habitat (19.34 acres)
Permanently Impacted Habitat:- CRLF Non-breeding Aquatic/
SFGS Aquatic Foraging(No Impacts)
- CRLF & SFGS Dispersal/Upland(0.33 acre)
Temporarily Impacted Habitat:- CRLF Non-breeding Aquatic/
SFGS Aquatic Foraging(0.01 acre)
- CRLF & SFGS Dispersal/Upland(0.32 acre)
1:400
1:200
Bridge Span -No OHWM/Aquatic Impacts
Overlook 1
Overlo
ok2
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APPENDIX C Photographs of Study Area
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Top: San Vicente Creek looking east.
Bottom: The existing footbridge above SanVicente Creek.
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Top: Existing multi-use trail and future trailalignment location.
Bottom: A culvert that runs beneath Highway 1,connecting the Project Area to known CRLF andSFGS occurrences.
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Top: The historic basin and potential CRLFbreeding habitat adjacent to Airport Road.
Bottom: The temporary water feature andtreefrog breeding habitat adjacent to the ProjectArea.
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APPENDIX D - Species Observed Within the Study Area
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Ludwigia peploides ludwigia
Lupinus bicolor bicolored lupin
Lupinus arboreus coastal bush lupine
Lythrum californicum common loosestrife
Malva sp. malva
Mimulus guttatus yellow monkeyflower
Picris echioides prickly ox tongue
Pittosporum crassifolium thick-leaved pittosporum
Plantago lanceolata English plantain
Plantago erecta California plantain
Poa annua blue-eyed grass
Polygonum persicaria ladys thumb
Polypogon monspeliensis rabbitsfoot grass
Polystichum californicum Sword fern
Potentilla anserina silverweed
Raphanus sativa wild radish
Ribes sp. currant
Rubus ursinus California blackberry
Rubus discolor Himalayan blackberry
Rumex crispus curly dock
Salix lasiolepis arroyo willow
Sambucus racemosa elderberry
Scrophularia californica bee plant
Senecio mikanioides german ivy
Sonchus asper spiny sowthistle
Toxicodendron diversilobum poison oak
Tropaeolum majus nasturtium
Urtica dioica stinging nettle
Vinca major periwinkle
Vulpia myuros rattail fescue
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Wildlife Species
Mammals
Pacific Harbor Seal Phoca vitulina richardii
Bottas Pocket Gopher (burrows) Thomomys bottae
Raccoon (tracks) Procyon lotor
Birds
California Quail Callipepla californica
Double-crested Cormorant Phalacrocorax auritus
Great Blue Heron Ardea herodias
Red-shouldered Hawk Buteo lineatus
Red-tailed Hawk Buteo jamaicensisKilldeer Charadrius vociferus
Black Oystercatcher Haematopus bachmani
Western Sandpiper Calidris mauri
Western Gull Larus occidentalis
Band-tailed Pigeon Patagioenas fasciata
Mourning Dove Zenaida macroura
Anna's Hummingbird Calypte anna
Belted Kingfisher Ceryle alcyon
Downy Woodpecker Picoides pubescens
Northern Flicker Colaptes auratus
Black Phoebe Sayornis nigricans
Western Scrub-Jay Aphelocoma californica
Chestnut-backed Chickadee Poecile rufescens
Bushtit Psaltriparus minimus
American Robin Turdus migratorius
Common Yellowthroat Geothlypis trichas
Song Sparrow Melospiza melodia
Dark-eyed Junco Junco hyemalis
House Finch Carpodacus mexicanus
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Herpetofauna
Sierra Treefrog Pseudacris sierra