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HomeMy WebLinkAboutAppendix C - Biological Resources Assessment Memorandum Alta Fontana Mixed Use Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration APPENDIX C BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES ASSESSMENT MEMORANDUM April 21, 2022 JN 186676 Mr. Salvador Quintanilla, Associate Planner City of Fontana, Planning Department 8353 Sierra Avenue Fontana, CA 92335 SUBJECT: Results of a Biological Resources Assessment for the Proposed Alta Fontana Mixed Use Project – City of Fontana, San Bernardino County, California Dear Mr. Quintanilla: Michael Baker International (Michael Baker) has prepared this report to document the results of a biological resources assessment for the proposed Alta Fontana Mixed Use Project located in the City of Fontana, San Bernardino County, California. Michael Baker conducted a thorough literature review and a field survey to confirm existing site conditions and assess the potential for special-status plant and wildlife species1 that have been documented or that are likely to occur on or within the immediate vicinity of the project site. Specifically, this report provides a detailed assessment of the suitability of the on-site habitat to support special-status plant and wildlife species that were identified in the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) California Natural Diversity Database RareFind 5 (CNDDB; CDFW 2021), the California Native Plant Society (CNPS) Inventory of Rare and Endangered Plants of California (CIRP; CNPS 2021), the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) Information for Planning and Consultation Project Planning Tool (IPaC; USFWS 2021a), and other databases as potentially occurring in the vicinity of the project site. Project Location The project site is generally located north of Ivy Ave, east of Redwood Ave, south of Foothill Blvd, and west of Live Oak Ave in the City of Fontana, San Bernardino County, California (refer to Figure 1, Regional and Project Vicinity). The project site is depicted in Section 11 of Township 1 South, Range 6 West, on the U.S. Geological Survey’s (USGS) Fontana, California 7.5-minute quadrangle (USGS 2018). Specifically, the project site is located at 14817 Foothill Boulevard, in the City of Fontana, San Bernardino County, California (refer to Figure 2, Project Site). 1 As used in this report, “special-status” refers to plant and wildlife species that are federally-/State-listed, proposed, or candidates; plant species that have been designated a California Rare Plant Rank species by the California Native Plant Society; wildlife species that are designated by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife as Fully Protected, Species of Special Concern, or Watch List species; State/locally rare vegetation communities; and species that warrant protection under local or regional preservation policies. Alta Fontana Mixed Use Project 2 Biological Resources Assessment Report Project Description The proposed project would be located at 14817 Foothill Boulevard in the City of Fontana. The project would construct a mixed-use development of 340 multi-family residential units, four live-work units, commercial space, and indoor amenity space (i.e., fitness/clubroom, and leasing office) on 8.8 acres. The project would also include surface parking spaces located in the western, central, and southern portions of the project site. Additionally, the existing overhead power lines that bisect the project site from west to east at the north-central portion of the project site would be relocated underground; the new underground alignment would remain through the project site in the parking lot areas. Further, the proposed project would require modifications of Live Oak Avenue consisting of widening the road, new curb and gutters for the entire eastern frontage of the project site along Live Oak Avenue, three driveway approaches, and public sidewalk. Approximately 26 trees would be removed and 243 trees would be installed with implementation of the proposed project. Methodology Literature Review Michael Baker conducted thorough literature reviews and records searches to determine which special- status biological resources have the potential to occur on or within the general vicinity of the project site. Previous special-status plant and wildlife species occurrence records within the USGS Devore, Fontana, Cucamonga Peak, and Guasti, California 7.5-minute quadrangles were determined through a query of the CNDDB (CDFW 2021), CIRP (CNPS 2021), and IPaC (USFWS 2021a). Current conservation statuses of species were verified through lists and resources provided by the CDFW, specifically the Special Animals List (CDFW 2022a), Special Vascular Plants, Bryophytes, and Lichens List (CDFW 2022b), State and Federally Listed Endangered and Threatened Animals of California (CDFW 2022c), and State and Federally Listed Endangered, Threatened, and Rare Plants of California (CDFW 2022d). In addition, Michael Baker reviewed previously prepared reports, survey results, and literature, as available, detailing the biological resources previously observed on or within the vicinity of the project site to gain an understanding of existing site conditions, confirm previous species observations, and note the extent of any disturbances that have occurred within the project site that would otherwise limit the distribution of special-status biological resources. Standard field guides and texts were reviewed for specific habitat requirements of special-status species, as well as the following resources: • Google Earth Pro Historical Aerial Imagery from 1985 to 2021 (Google Inc. 2021) • The City of Fontana General Plan Update 2015-2035 (City of Fontana 2017) • Species Accounts provided by Birds of the World (Billerman et. al 2020) • Custom Soil Resource Report for San Bernardino County, California, Southwestern Part, (U.S. Department of Agriculture [USDA] 2021) • USFWS Critical Habitat Mapper and Environmental Conservation Online System (USFWS 2021b) Habitat Assessment/Field Survey Michael Baker biologists Lauren Mapes, Ryan Winkleman, and Tom Millington conducted a habitat assessment/field survey on December 15, 2021, to confirm existing site conditions within the project site. Michael Baker biologists surveyed the entire project site. Vegetation communities occurring within the Alta Fontana Mixed Use Project 3 Biological Resources Assessment Report project site were mapped on an aerial photograph and classified in accordance with the vegetation descriptions provided in A Manual of California Vegetation (Sawyer et al. 2009) and cross referenced with the Preliminary Descriptions of the Terrestrial Natural Communities of California (Holland 1986) for the purposes of evaluating the presence or absence of special-status vegetation communities identified in the CNDDB records search, which uses the Holland vegetation classification system. In addition, site characteristics such as soil condition, topography, hydrology, anthropogenic disturbances, indicator species, condition of on-site vegetation communities, and the presence of potentially regulated jurisdictional features (e.g., streams, flood control channels) were noted within the project site. Michael Baker used Geographic Information Systems (GIS) ArcView software to digitize the mapped vegetation communities and then transferred these data onto an aerial photograph to further document existing conditions and quantify the acreage of each vegetation community. Refer to Table 1 below for a summary of the survey date, timing, surveyors, and weather conditions. Table 1: Survey Date, Time, Surveyors, and Weather Conditions Date Time (start / finish) Surveyors Weather Conditions Temperature (°F) (start / finish) Wind Speed (mph) (start / finish) December 15, 2021 0900 / 1030 Lauren Mapes, Ryan Winkleman, Tom Millington 55 sunny / 57 sunny 1 – 4 All plant and wildlife species observed, as well as dominant plant species within each vegetation community, were recorded. Plant species observed during the habitat assessment/field survey were identified by visual characteristics and morphology in the field while unusual and less familiar plant species were photographed and identified later using taxonomic guides. Plant nomenclature used in this report follows the Jepson eFlora (Jepson Flora Project 2021) and scientific names are provided immediately following common names of plant species (first reference only). Wildlife detections were made through aural and visual detection, as well as observation of sign including scat, trails, tracks, burrows, and nests. Field guides used to assist with identification of wildlife species during the habitat assessment included The Sibley Guide to Birds (Sibley 2014), A Field Guide to Western Reptiles and Amphibians (Stebbins 2003), Bats of the United States and Canada (Harvey et al. 2011), and A Field Guide to Mammals of North America (Reid 2006). Although common names of wildlife species are well standardized, scientific names are provided immediately following common names of wildlife species in this report (first reference only). To the extent possible, nomenclature of birds follows the most recent annual supplement of the American Ornithological Society’s Checklist of North American Birds (Chesser et al. 2020), nomenclature of amphibians and reptiles follows Scientific and Standard English Names of Amphibians and Reptiles of North America North of Mexico, with Comments Regarding Confidence in Our Understanding (Crother 2017), and nomenclature for mammals follows the Revised Checklist of North American Mammals North of Mexico (Bradley et al. 2014). Existing Site Conditions According to the Custom Soil Resource Report for San Bernardino County, California, Southwestern Part (USDA 2021), the project site is underlain by the following soil unit: Tujunga – gravelly loamy sand, 0 to 9 percent slopes (TvC) (refer to Figure 3, USDA Soils). The project site is relatively flat, gently sloping to the southwest and ranges in elevation from approximately 1239 to 1254 feet above mean sea level. After a Alta Fontana Mixed Use Project 4 Biological Resources Assessment Report review of Google Earth historic aerial imagery and results from the field survey, it was determined that the project site is composed of an open plot that has disturbed habitat due to anthropogenic activities and is subject to routine weed abatement and pedestrian traffic, resulting in heavily disturbed and compacted surface soils. As such, native vegetation communities do not occur within the project site; instead, it is composed of disturbed and developed land dominated by non-native and ornamental plant species. Paved roads comprise the north and east sides of this project site. Additionally, mixed-use areas surround the project site; commercial land uses are located to the north and west, and residential land uses are located to the east, south, and west. Refer to Attachment B for representative photographs of the project site taken during the field survey. Vegetation Communities and Land Cover Types There were no natural vegetation communities observed within the boundaries of the project site during the field survey. Instead, 8.93 acres of disturbed habitat and 1.03 acres of developed areas were observed and mapped within the project site. These land cover types are depicted on Figure 4, Vegetation Communities and Other Land Uses. Additionally, refer to Attachment C for a complete list of plant species observed within the project site during the field survey. Disturbed Habitat Disturbed habitat areas comprise the entire project site. These areas have been physically disturbed by anthropogenic activities (e.g., routine weed abatement activities [i.e., disking, tilling], pedestrian traffic, concrete pieces) and are no longer recognized as a native vegetation community but continue to hold a soil substrate. Surface soils within these areas are heavily disturbed, eroded, and compacted. Vegetation that is present primarily consists of ruderal/weedy plant species including ripgut brome (Bromus diandrus), red- stemmed filaree (Erodium cicutarium), and shortpod mustard (Hirschfeldia incana). In addition, ornamental trees were present along the northern edge of the site including olive (Olea europaea), chinaberry (Melia azedarach), eucalyptus (Eucalyptus sp.), and pine (Pinus sp.). Developed Developed areas consist of a small concrete slab foundation from a former structure located in the northeast portion of the project site, which has been physically altered to a degree that natural soil substrates and native vegetation are no longer supported, as well as the sidewalk to the north, West Foothill Blvd, and Live Oak Ave. Wildlife Natural vegetation communities provide foraging habitat, nesting/denning sites, and shelter from adverse weather or predation. This section provides a general discussion of common wildlife species that have been detected on-site by Michael Baker or that are expected to occur based on existing site conditions. The discussion is to be used as a general reference and is limited by the season, time of day, and weather conditions in which the work was conducted. Refer to Attachment C for a complete list of wildlife species observed within the project site during the field survey. Alta Fontana Mixed Use Project 5 Biological Resources Assessment Report Fish No fish or hydrogeomorphic features (e.g., perennial creeks, ponds, lakes, reservoirs) that would support populations of fish were observed in the project site during the field survey. Therefore, no fish are expected to occur. Amphibians No amphibians or hydrogeomorphic features (e.g., perennial creeks, ponds, lakes, reservoirs) that would provide suitable breeding habitat for amphibians were observed within the project site during the field survey. Therefore, no amphibians are expected to occur. Reptiles No reptile species were observed in the project site during the field survey. The project site is expected to provide habitat for a limited number of reptilian species that are acclimated to edge or urban environments. Common reptilian species that may be present within the project site include western fence lizard (Sceloporus occidentalis) and western side-blotched lizard (Uta stansburiana elegans). Birds The project site provides marginal foraging and nesting habitat for a variety of resident and migrant bird species that are adapted to a high degree of disturbance associated with the surrounding residential land uses. A total of fifteen (15) bird species have been detected during the field survey. Some of the more commonly detected bird species included American crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos), house finch (Haemorhous mexicanus), and yellow-rumped warbler (Setophaga coronata). Please refer to Attachment C for a complete list of bird species observed during the field survey. Nesting birds are protected pursuant to the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) of 1918 and the California Fish and Game Code (CFGC)2. To maintain compliance with the MBTA and CFGC, clearance surveys are typically required prior to any ground disturbance or vegetation removal activities to avoid direct or indirect impacts to active bird nests and/or nesting birds. Consequently, if an active bird nest is destroyed or if project activities result in indirect impacts (e.g., nest abandonment, loss of reproductive effort) to nesting birds, it is considered “take” and is potentially punishable by fines and/or imprisonment. The project site provides limited nesting habitat for most year-round and seasonal avian residents other than those that nest on the open ground (e.g., killdeer [Charadrius vociferus]). However, no active nests or birds displaying overt nesting behavior were observed during the field survey. Mammals The project site provides marginal habitat for a limited number of mammalian species adapted to living in edge or urban environments. However, the routine weed abatement and surrounding residential and commercial development limits the potential for mammalian species to occur. Domestic cat (Felis catus) was the only mammal species observed during the field survey. Additionally, there was scat evidence of 2 Section 3503 makes it unlawful to take, possess, or needlessly destroy the nest or eggs of any bird, except as otherwise provided by the California Fish and Game Code or any regulation made pursuant thereto; Section 3503.5 makes it unlawful to take, possess, or destroy any birds in the orders Falconiformes or Strigiformes (birds-of-prey); and Section 3513 makes it unlawful to take or possess any migratory non-game bird except as provided by the rules and regulations adopted by the Secretary of the Interior under provisions of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, as amended (16 U.S.C. § 703 et seq.). Alta Fontana Mixed Use Project 6 Biological Resources Assessment Report domestic dog (Canis lupus familiaris). Common mammalian species that may occur within the project site include opossum (Didelphis virginiana), raccoon (Procyon lotor), and California ground squirrel (Otospermophilus beecheyi). Bats occur throughout most of southern California; however, the project site does not provide roosting habitat for bats (e.g., within hollow tree trunks/limbs, underneath tree foliage). Roosting habitat for bats may be present in the surrounding area, particularly where there are untrimmed Mexican fan palms (Washingtonia robusta) or other large trees with either broad leaves that bats can cling to, crevices or cavities that bats can roost in, and/or bark that can be pushed under to roost underneath. Western yellow bats (Lasiurus xanthinus; a State Species of Special Concern (SSC)) in particular are known to favor Mexican fan palms for roosting sites, where they can cling to the underside of untrimmed palm fronds. Because the project site is an undeveloped open space, bats may still forage over it if an insect prey base is present. Migratory Corridors and Linkages Wildlife corridors and linkages are key features for wildlife movement between habitat patches. Wildlife corridors are generally defined as those areas that provide opportunities for individuals or local populations to conduct seasonal migrations, permanent dispersals, or daily commutes, while linkages generally refer to broader areas that provide movement opportunities for multiple keystone/focal species or allow for propagation of ecological processes (e.g., for movement of pollinators), often between areas of conserved land. There are no wildlife corridors or linkages within the project site because it is surrounded by development on all sides and has no connectivity to natural communities. The project site is not located within any wildlife corridors, wilderness areas, wilderness study areas, or areas of critical environmental concern identified in the San Bernardino County Countywide Plan (County of San Bernardino 2020). Wildlife movement into or out of the project site is likely reduced by the presence of surrounding high-traffic roadways (i.e., Foothill Blvd) and existing residential and commercial developments, which have fragmented the connection between the project site and surrounding naturally occurring vegetation communities. The disturbed and developed landscape of the project site and absence of native vegetation for cover most likely precludes the movement of wildlife through the project site. Further, elevated noise levels, vehicle traffic, lighting, and human presence associated with the surrounding developments and roadways decrease the suitability of the project site to be used as a wildlife movement corridor or linkage. State and Federal Jurisdictional Resources There are three agencies that regulate activities within inland streams, wetlands, and riparian areas in California. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Regulatory Branch regulates discharge of dredged or fill material into “waters of the U.S.” pursuant to Section 404 of the federal Clean Water Act (CWA) and Section 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act. Of the State agencies, the Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB) regulates discharges to surface waters pursuant to Section 401 of the CWA and Section 13263 of the California Porter-Cologne Water Quality Control Act, and the CDFW regulates alterations to streambed and associated vegetation communities under Section 1600 et seq. of the CFGC. No jurisdictional drainage or potential wetland features were observed within the boundaries of the project site. Therefore, development of the project is not expected to result in impacts to State or federal jurisdictional areas or require regulatory approvals/permits from the USACE, RWQCB, or CDFW. Alta Fontana Mixed Use Project 7 Biological Resources Assessment Report Special-Status Biological Resources The CNDDB (CDFW 2021), CIRP (CNPS 2021), and IPaC (USFWS 2021a) were queried for reported locations of special-status plant and wildlife species as well as special-status natural vegetation communities in the USGS Devore, Fontana, Cucamonga Peak, and Guasti, California 7.5-minute quadrangles. The field survey was conducted to assess the conditions of the habitat(s) within the boundaries of the project site to determine if the existing vegetation communities, at the time of the field survey, have the potential to provide suitable habitat(s) for special-status plant and wildlife species. Additionally, the potentials for special-status species to occur within the project site were determined based on the reported occurrence locations in the CNDDB and CIRP and the following criteria: • Present: the species was observed or detected within the project site during the field survey. • High: Occurrence records (within 20 years) indicate that the species has been known to occur on or within 1 mile of the project site and the site is within the normal expected range of this species. Intact, suitable habitat preferred by this species occurs within the project site and/or there is viable landscape connectivity to a local known extant population(s) or sighting(s). • Moderate: Occurrence records (within 20 years) indicate that the species has been known to occur within 1 mile of the project site and the project site is within the normal expected range of this species. There is suitable habitat within the project site, but the site is ecologically isolated from any local known extant populations or sightings. • Low: Occurrence records (within 20 years) indicate that the species has been known to occur within 5 miles of the project site, but the site is outside of the normal expected range of the species and/or there is poor quality or marginal habitat within the project site. • Not Expected: There are no occurrence records of the species occurring within 5 miles of the project site, there is no suitable habitat within the project site, and/or the project site is outside of the normal expected range for the species. The CNDDB, CIRP, and IPaC identified thirty-five (35) special-status plant species and 30 special-status wildlife species as occurring within the USGS Devore, Fontana, Cucamonga Peak, and Guasti, California 7.5-minute quadrangles. In addition, 5 special-status vegetation communities were identified. Special-status plant and wildlife species were evaluated for their potential to occur within the project site based on specific habitat requirements, availability/quality of suitable habitat, and known distributions of species/populations. Special-status biological resources identified during the literature review as having the potential to occur within the vicinity of the project site are presented in Table D-1: Potentially Occurring Special-Status Biological Resources, provided in Attachment D. Special-Status Plants A total of thirty-five (35) special-status plant species have been recorded in the USGS Devore, Fontana, Cucamonga Peak, and Guasti, California 7.5-minute quadrangles by the CNDDB, CIRP, and IPaC (refer to Attachment D). There were no special status plants identified in the project site during the field survey. Based on the results of the field survey and a review of specific habitat preferences, distributions, and elevation ranges, Michael Baker determined that all of the special-status plant species identified by the CNDDB, CIRP, and IPaC either have a low potential or are not expected to occur within the project site. Alta Fontana Mixed Use Project 8 Biological Resources Assessment Report Special-Status Wildlife A total of thirty (30) special-status wildlife species have been recorded in the USGS Devore, Fontana, Cucamonga Peak, and Guasti, California 7.5-minute quadrangles by the CNDDB and IPaC (refer to Attachment D). Although not listed under the initial search results, based on the results of the field survey and a review of specific habitat preferences, occurrence records, known distributions, and elevation ranges, Michael Baker determined that the project site has a high potential to support Cooper’s hawk (Accipiter cooperii; a State Watch List [WL] species) and sharp-shinned hawk (Accipiter striatus; a State WL species). Cooper’s hawks are unlikely to nest on-site because the trees within the project site do not provide good cover for this somewhat reclusive nester; sharp-shinned hawks do not nest this far south. However, there is suitable prey and perch spots for both species and both species have a high potential to forage on-site. All remaining special-status wildlife species identified by the CNDDB and IPaC either have a low potential or are not expected to occur within the project site. As previously discussed, the project site does not provide roosting habitat for bats (e.g., within hollow tree trunks/limbs, underneath tree foliage). However, roosting habitat may be present in the surrounding area, particularly where there are untrimmed Mexican fan palms (Washingtonia robusta) or other large trees with either broad leaves that bats can cling to, crevices or cavities that bats can roost in, and/or bark that can be pushed under to roost underneath. Western yellow bats (Lasiurus xanthinus; SSC) in particular are known to favor Mexican fan palms for roosting sites, where they can cling to the underside of untrimmed palm fronds. Although it is not expected to occur on-site, due to its regional significance in the Inland Empire, burrowing owl (Athene cunicularia; a State SSC) is described in further detail below. Burrowing Owl The burrowing owl is a grassland specialist distributed throughout western North America where it occupies open areas with short vegetation and bare ground within shrub, desert, and grassland environments. Burrowing owls use a wide variety of arid and semi-arid environments with well-drained, level to gently-sloping areas characterized by sparse vegetation and bare ground (Haug and Didiuk 1993; Dechant et al. 1999). Burrowing owls are dependent upon the presence of burrowing mammals (e.g., California ground squirrels, coyotes, American badger [Taxidea taxus]) whose burrows are used for roosting and nesting. The presence or absence of mammal burrows is often a major factor that limits the presence or absence of burrowing owls. Where mammal burrows are scarce, burrowing owls have been found occupying man-made cavities, such as buried and non-functioning drain pipes, stand-pipes, and dry culverts. Burrowing owls may also burrow beneath rocks and debris or large, heavy objects such as abandoned cars, concrete blocks, or concrete pads. They also require open vegetation allowing open line- of-sight of the surrounding habitat to forage as well as watch for predators. According to the CNDDB, there are 21 occurrence records for burrowing owl within the USGS Devore, Fontana, Cucamonga Peak, and Guasti, California 7.5-minute quadrangles. The closest extant occurrence (Occurrence Number 335) was recorded in 2004, approximately 4.25 miles south-southeast of the project site; 2 adults and 4 juveniles were observed near burrows (CDFW 2021). Additionally, another occurrence (Occurrence Number 1,789) within the same proximity of 4.25 miles, but to the west of the project site; 2 breeding pairs were observed. In addition, there are several records of this species in the Cornell Lab of Ornithology’s eBird database within and just outside of a 5-mile radius from the project site (eBird 2021). Alta Fontana Mixed Use Project 9 Biological Resources Assessment Report The on-site disturbed habitat provides ideal foraging habitat for this species, as it appears from historic aerial imagery in Google Earth to be routinely mowed to keep vegetation low; at the time of Michael Baker’s field survey, conditions were consistent with this observation. However, the project site is entirely surrounded by residential and commercial development, with a high-traffic road immediately to the north of the site and evidence of domestic pet use on the site. In addition, there are several distribution poles going across the northern half of the project site, as well as several tall trees, any of which could provide perching opportunities for predatory raptors. Finally, no California ground squirrels, or other suitable rodent burrows were found within the project site. As a result, although the project site may provide ideal foraging habitat for burrowing owls, the on-site and surrounding conditions currently likely preclude this species from occurring on-site. Although Michael Baker does not recommend that focused surveys be conducted for this species, out of an abundance of caution it is recommended that a single pre-construction survey for burrowing owls be conducted within thirty (30) days prior to the start of construction. Special-Status Vegetation Communities Five (5) special-status vegetation communities have been reported in the USGS Devore, Fontana, Cucamonga Peak, and Guasti, California 7.5-minute quadrangles by the CNDDB: Coastal and Valley Freshwater Marsh, Southern Riparian Forest, Southern Sycamore Alder Riparian Woodland, Riversidian Alluvial Fan Sage Scrub, and California Walnut Woodland. These special-status vegetation communities identified by the CNDDB were not observed during the field survey, and no other special-status vegetation communities were observed. Critical Habitat Under the definition used by the federal Endangered Species Act (FESA), designated “Critical Habitat” refers to specific areas within the geographical range of a species that were occupied at the time it was listed that contain the physical or biological features that are essential to the survival and eventual recovery of that species and that may require special management considerations or protection, regardless of whether the species is still extant in the area. Areas that were not known to be occupied at the time a species was listed can also be designated Critical Habitat if they contain one or more of the physical or biological features that are essential to that species’ conservation and if the other areas that are occupied are inadequate to ensure the species’ recovery. If a project may result in take or adverse modification to a species’ designated Critical Habitat and the project has a federal nexus, the project proponent may be required to provide suitable mitigation. Projects with a federal nexus may include projects that occur on federal lands, require federal permits (e.g., CWA Section 404 permit), or receive any federal oversight or funding. If there is a federal nexus, then the federal agency that is responsible for providing funds or permits would be required to consult with the USFWS under the FESA. The project site is not located within designated Critical Habitat for any federally listed species (refer to Figure 5, Critical Habitat). Local Policies and Ordinances City of Fontana Code of Ordinance – Trees and Shrubs on Public Land The City of Fontana Public Services Department Tree Policy Manual addresses tree removal on City-owned property and within the public right-of-way and the Fontana Municipal Code addresses requirements for preservation and protection of heritage, significant and/or specimen trees within the City located on both private and public property. Under Section 28-63 of the Fontana Municipal Code, the City has identified Alta Fontana Mixed Use Project 10 Biological Resources Assessment Report five tree species as “significant trees.” The single California sycamore located in the northwest corner of the site qualifies as a significant tree. In addition, the on-site olive trees qualify as “heritage trees” according to the definition in Section 28-63, which states that heritage trees include any tree which “is representative of a significant period of the city’s growth or development (windrow tree, European Olive tree).” Under Section 28-64 of the Fontana Municipal Code, the removal of significant trees and heritage trees requires a tree removal permit. Under Sections 28-67 to 28-70, significant trees can be replaced or relocated. Relocation is subject to a written report by a certified arborist on the feasibility of transplanting the subject tree, followed by a permit application, an on-site inspection of the tree(s) to be removed, and eventual approval or denial of the tree removal permit. In the event that a permit is issued by the City for the removal of any significant tree, it is to be replaced with a species designated by the staff according to guidelines under section 28-67, unless the staff determines that replacement is inappropriate. Should preservation and protection of the on-site trees be feasible, under section 28-66, during development or redevelopment activity significant trees shall be enclosed by an appropriate construction barrier such as a chain link fence or other means acceptable to City of Fontana staff, prior to the issuance of any grading or building permit and prior to commencement of work. Fences are to remain in place during all phases of construction and may not be removed without the written consent of the staff. No substantial disruption or removal of the structural or absorptive roots of any heritage, significant, or specimen tree shall be performed. In the ordinance, windrows are classified as a series of trees (minimum of four), usually a variety of eucalyptus, planted in a closely spaced line no more than ten feet apart to provide a windbreak for the protection of property. Despite there being a small group of four (4) eucalyptus trees in a row in the northeast corner of the project site, it is Michael Baker’s determination that these do not fit the City of Fontana’s criteria for a windrow, as the trees are spaced greater than ten feet apart. Conclusions and Recommendations Approximately 8.93 acres of disturbed habitat and 1.03 acres of developed areas were observed and mapped within the boundaries of the project site during the field survey, with no natural or sensitive vegetation communities found on-site. No special-status plant species were observed within the project site during the field survey. Based on the results of the field survey and a review of specific habitat preferences, distributions, and elevation ranges, Michael Baker determined that all special-status plant species identified by the CNDDB, CIRP, and IPaC either have a low potential or are not expected to occur within the project site. No special-status wildlife species were observed during the field survey. Based on the results of the field survey and a review of specific habitat preferences, occurrence records, known distributions, and elevation ranges, Michael Baker determined that the project site has a high potential to support Cooper’s hawk and sharp-shinned hawk. However, it is important to note that neither Cooper’s hawk nor sharp-shinned hawk would nest on-site, and these two species are only expected to forage in the area. Additionally, although not observed or expected to occur within the project site, because the project site is an undeveloped open space, bats may still forage over it if an insect prey base is present. Avoidance and Minimization Measures (AMM) BIO-1 and BIO-2 would minimize the potential to impact nesting birds or roosting bats in the project site or its vicinity, respectively. Additionally, out of an abundance of caution, AMM BIO-3, which would require a single pre-construction survey for burrowing owls be conducted within thirty (30) days prior to the start of construction, would minimize the potential to impact burrowing owls. All Alta Fontana Mixed Use Project 11 Biological Resources Assessment Report remaining special-status wildlife species identified by the CNDDB and IPaC either have a low potential or are not expected to occur within the project site. The single California sycamore located in the northwest corner of the project site qualifies as a significant tree, and olive trees within the project site qualify as “heritage trees.” The proposed project would comply with the policies of the City’s Tree Policy Manual for trees within the public right-of-way and with Chapter 28 Article III of the Fontana Municipal Code to obtain a tree removal permit prior to the removal of heritage, significant and specimen trees. In order to avoid and/or minimize potential impacts to biological resources, it is recommended that the following AMMs be implemented: AMM BIO-1: If project-related activities are to be initiated during the nesting season (January 1 to August 31), a pre-construction nesting bird clearance survey shall be conducted by a qualified biologist no more than three (3) days prior to the start of any vegetation removal or ground disturbing activities. The qualified biologist shall survey all suitable nesting habitat within the project impact area, and areas within a biologically defensible buffer zone surrounding the project impact area. If no active bird nests are detected during the clearance survey, project activities may begin, and no additional avoidance and minimization measures shall be required. If an active bird nest is found, the species shall be identified, and a “no-disturbance” buffer shall be established around the active nest. The size of the “no-disturbance” buffer shall be increased or decreased based on the judgment of the qualified biologist and level of activity and sensitivity of the species. The qualified biologist shall periodically monitor any active bird nests to determine if project-related activities occurring outside the “no- disturbance” buffer disturb the birds and if the buffer shall be increased. Once the young have fledged and left the nest, or the nest otherwise becomes inactive under natural conditions, project activities within the “no-disturbance” buffer may occur following an additional survey by the qualified biologist to search for any new bird nests in the restricted area. AMM BIO-2: No less than 60 days prior to initiating project activities, a qualified bat biologist shall conduct a bat roosting habitat suitability assessment of any vegetation that may be removed, altered, or indirectly impacted by the project activities. Any locations identified as having potentially suitable bat roosting habitat by the qualified approved bat biologist shall be subject to additional nighttime surveys (bat surveys) during the summer months (i.e., June-August) to determine the numbers and bat species using the roost(s). The information collected during these additional bat surveys shall be used by the qualified bat biologist to develop species-specific measures to minimize impacts to roosting bats should bats be detected using the site. The bat surveys shall be conducted by the qualified bat biologist using an appropriate combination of visual inspection, sampling, exit counts, and acoustic surveys. The results of the pre-construction bat surveys shall be submitted to CDFW for review no less than 30 days prior to the initiation of project activities. Alta Fontana Mixed Use Project 12 Biological Resources Assessment Report If the presence of bats within the project is confirmed, avoidance and minimization measures, including the designation of buffers based upon the particular bat species found and phased removal of trees, shall be developed and submitted to CDFW for review and approval. If the site supports maternity roosts, the Applicant shall avoid disturbing those areas during the breeding season. If the site supports a maternity roost(s) or special-status species, the Applicant shall contact CDFW and conduct an impact assessment prior to commencing project activities to assist in the development of minimization and mitigation measures. Applicant shall compensate for impacts and losses to maternity roosts and/or special- status bat habitat through a mitigation strategy approved by CDFW. AMM BIO-3: Although no burrowing owls were observed during the field survey, a pre-construction burrowing owl clearance survey shall be conducted by a qualified biologist to ensure that burrowing owls remain absent from the project site and that impacts to burrowing owls do not occur. The pre-construction clearance surveys shall be conducted no more than 30 days prior to any vegetation removal or ground disturbing activities and in accordance with the CDFW Staff Report on Burrowing Owl Mitigation (CDFW 2012). Documentation of surveys and findings shall be submitted to the City of Fontana for review and file. If no burrowing owls or occupied burrows are detected, construction may begin. If an occupied burrow is found within the development footprint during pre-construction clearance surveys, a burrowing owl exclusion and mitigation plan would need to be prepared and submitted to CDFW for approval prior to initiating project activities. Please do not hesitate to contact me at (949) 533-0918 or ryan.winkleman@mbakerintl.com, Tom Millington at (949) 246-7004 or tommillington@mbakerintl.com, or Lauren Mapes at (714) 519-9922 or lauren.mapes@mbakerintl.com should you have any questions or require further information. Sincerely, Ryan Winkleman Tom Millington Lauren Mapes Senior Biologist Senior Biologist Biologist Attachments: A. Project Figures B. Site Photographs C. Plant and Wildlife Species Observed List D. Potentially Occurring Special-Status Biological Resources E. References Attachment A Project Figures BNSF RR SAN BERNARDINO AVEDAY CREEK CHARROW RTE Regional and Project Vicinity Figure 1°0 10.5 Miles1/3/2022 JN \\\IRVICA1FS1.bkr.mbakercorp.com\HROOT\pdata\186676_Alta_Fontana\GIS\MXD\Fig 01 Regional and Project Vicinity.mxd RPLegend Project Site ALTA FONTANA MIXED USE PROJECTBIOLOGICAL RESOURCES ASSESSMENT REPORT Source: USGS 7.5-Minute topographic quadrangle maps: Cucamonga Peak, Devore, Fontana, Guasti, California (2018) Project Location ^_ !> !> 34.107036-117.479353 34.104105-117.482612 Ivy Ave Live Oak AveW Foothill Blvd Project Site Figure 2°0 15075Feet1/3/2022 JN \\IRVICA1FS1.bkr.mbakercorp.com\HROOT\pdata\186676_Alta_Fontana\GIS\MXD\Fig 02 Project Site.mxd RPLegend Project Site !>Reference Point ALTA FONTANA MIXED USE PROJECTBIOLOGICAL RESOURCES ASSESSMENT REPORT Source: Nearmap (09/2021) !> !> 34.107036-117.479353 34.104105-117.482612 Ivy Ave Live Oak AveW Foothill Blvd TvC USDA Soils Figure 3°0 15075Feet1/3/2022 JN \\IRVICA1FS1.bkr.mbakercorp.com\HROOT\pdata\186676_Alta_Fontana\GIS\MXD\Fig 03 USDA Soils.mxd RPLegend Project Site !>Reference Point Tujunga gravelly loamy sand, 0 to 9 percent slopes ALTA FONTANA MIXED USE PROJECTBIOLOGICAL RESOURCES ASSESSMENT REPORT Source: Nearmap (09/2021), USDA (2019) TvC !> !> 34.107036-117.479353 34.104105-117.482612 Ivy Ave Live Oak AveW Foothill Blvd Vegetation Communities and Other Land Uses Figure 4°0 15075Feet1/3/2022 JN \\IRVICA1FS1.bkr.mbakercorp.com\HROOT\pdata\186676_Alta_Fontana\GIS\MXD\Fig 04 Vegetation Communities and Other Land Uses.mxd RPLegend Project Site !>Reference Point Disturbed (8.93 acres) Developed (1.03 acres) ALTA FONTANA MIXED USE PROJECTBIOLOGICAL RESOURCES ASSESSMENT REPORT Source: Nearmap (09/2021) !> !> 34.172667-117.40728 34.040053-117.553417 Critical Habitat Figure 5°0 1.50.75 Miles1/3/2022 JN \\IRVICA1FS1.bkr.mbakercorp.com\HROOT\pdata\186676_Alta_Fontana\GIS\MXD\Fig 05 Critical Habitat.mxd RPLegend Project Site !>Reference Point Coastal California Gnatcatcher(Polioptila californica californica) San Bernardino Merriam's Kangaroo Rat(Dipodomys merriami parvus) ALTA FONTANA MIXED USE PROJECTBIOLOGICAL RESOURCES ASSESSMENT REPORT Source: Esri (2020), USFWS (12/2021) Critical Habitat !"`$ !"a$ %&g( ?y Attachment B Site Photographs Attachment B – Site Photographs Alta Fontana Mixed Used Project B-1 Biological Resources Assessment Report Photograph 1: Standing in the northeast portion of the project site, facing southwest. Photograph 2: Standing in the southeast portion of the project site, facing northwest. Attachment B – Site Photographs Alta Fontana Mixed Used Project B-2 Biological Resources Assessment Report Photograph 3: Standing in the southwest portion of the project site, facing northeast. Photograph 4: Standing in the northwest portion of the project site, looking at eucalyptus and chinaberry trees, facing southeast. Attachment B – Site Photographs Alta Fontana Mixed Used Project B-3 Biological Resources Assessment Report Photograph 5: Standing in middle of the north boundary of the project site, facing west. Photograph 6: Standing at the center of the project site, facing east. Attachment B – Site Photographs Alta Fontana Mixed Used Project B-4 Biological Resources Assessment Report Photograph 7: Standing at the center of the project site, facing north. Attachment C Plant and Wildlife Species Observed List Attachment C – Plant and Wildlife Species Observed List Alta Fontana Mixed Use Project C-1 Biological Resources Assessment Report Table C-1: Plant and Wildlife Species Observed List Scientific Name* Common Name Cal-IPC Rating** Special-Status Rank*** Plants Ambrosia acanthicarpa annual bursage Bromus diandrus* ripgut brome Moderate Erodium cicutarium* red-stemmed filaree Limited Heterotheca grandiflora telegraph weed Hirschfeldia incana* short-pod mustard Moderate Melia azedarach* Chinaberry Olea europaea* olive tree Limited Heritage Tree Platanus racemosa California sycamore Significant Tree Salsola tragus* Russian thistle Limited Schinus mole* Peruvian pepper tree Limited Eucalyptus sp.* eucalyptus Watch-Limited Pinus sp. pine Birds Aphelocoma californica California scrub-jay Buteo jamaicensis red-tailed hawk Columba livia* rock pigeon Corvus brachyrhynchos American crow Haemorhous mexicanus house finch Larus californicus California gull Mimus polyglottos northern mockingbird Passer domesticus* house sparrow Streptopelia decaocto* Eurasian collared-dove Tyrannus vociferans Cassin’s kingbird Sayornis nigricans black phoebe Sayornis saya Say’s phoebe Setophaga coronata yellow-rumped warbler Spinus psaltria lesser goldfinch Sturnus vulgaris* European starling Mammals Canis lupus familiaris* Domestic dog Felis catus* Domestic cat * Non-native species ** California Invasive Plant Council (Cal-IPC) Ratings Moderate These species have substantial and apparent—but generally not severe—ecological impacts on physical processes, plant and animal communities, and vegetation structure. Their reproductive biology and other attributes are conducive to moderate to high rates of dispersal, though establishment is generally dependent upon ecological disturbance. Ecological amplitude and distribution may range from limited to widespread. Limited These species are invasive, but their ecological impacts are minor on a statewide level or there was not enough information to justify a higher score. Their reproductive biology and other attributes result in low to moderate Attachment C – Plant and Wildlife Species Observed List Alta Fontana Mixed Use Project C-2 Biological Resources Assessment Report rates of invasiveness. Ecological amplitude and distribution are generally limited, but these species may be locally persistent and problematic. Watch These species have been assessed as posing a high risk of becoming invasive in the future in California. *** Special-Status Rank City of Fontana Code of Ordinance for Trees and Shrubs on Public Lands Heritage Tree Any tree which: (1) Is of historical value because of its association with a place, building, natural feature or event of local, regional or national historical significance as identified by city council resolution; or (2) Is representative of a significant period of the city's growth or development (windrow tree, European Olive tree); or (3) Is a protected or endangered species as specified by federal or state statute; or (4) Is deemed historically or culturally significant by the city manager or his or her designee because of size, condition, location or aesthetic qualities. Significant Tree Any southern California black walnuts, coast live oaks, deodar cedars, California sycamores, or London planes that are not located on a private parcel of property of less than one acre zoned for residential use. Attachment D Potentially Occurring Special-Status Biological Resources Attachment D – Potentially Occurring Special-Status Biological Resources Alta Fontana Mixed Used Project D-1 Biological Resources Assessment Report Table D-1: Potentially Occurring Special-Status Biological Resources Scientific Name Common Name Special- Status Rank* Habitat Preferences and Distribution Affinities Observed On-site Potential to Occur SPECIAL-STATUS WILDLIFE SPECIES Agelaius tricolor tricolored blackbird ST SSC G2G3 S1S2 Range is limited to the coastal areas of the Pacific coast of North America, from Northern California to upper Baja California. Can be found in a wide variety of habitat including annual grasslands, wet and dry vernal pools and other seasonal wetlands, agricultural fields, cattle feedlots, and dairies. Occasionally forage in riparian scrub habitats along marsh borders. Basic habitat requirements for breeding include open accessible water, protected nesting substrate freshwater marsh dominated by cattails (Typha spp.), willows (Salix spp.), and bulrushes (Schoenoplectus spp.), and either flooded or thorny/spiny vegetation and suitable foraging space providing adequate insect prey. No Not Expected: Suitable nesting and foraging habitats consisting of annual grasslands, seasonal wetlands, freshwater marsh, and open accessible water are not present within the project site. Additionally, there are no occurrence records for this species within 5 miles of the project site (CDFW 2021a). Anniella stebbinsi Southern California legless lizard SSC G3 S3 Locally abundant specimens are found in coastal sand dunes and a variety of interior habitats, including sandy washes and alluvial fans. A large, protected population persists in the remnant of the once extensive El Segundo Dunes at Los Angeles International Airport. No Not Expected: Sandy wash and alluvial fan habitats preferred by this species are not present within the project site. The project site is composed of disturbed habitat that is subject to routine weed abatement, resulting in heavily disturbed and compacted surface soils which likely precludes this species from occurring. Arizona elegans occidentalis California glossy snake SSC G5T2 S2 Inhabits arid scrub, rocky washes, grasslands, and chaparral habitats. Appears to prefer microhabitats of open areas and areas with soil loose enough for easy burrowing. No Not Expected: Arid scrub, rocky washes, and grassland habitats preferred by this species are not present within the project site. The project site is composed of disturbed habitat that is subject to routine weed abatement, resulting in heavily disturbed and compacted surface soils which likely precludes this species from occurring. Artemisiospiza belli belli Bell's sage sparrow WL G5T2T3 S3 This species has a wide, but sparse distribution in western Riverside County, specifically within the “Riverside lowlands, San Jacinto Foothills, Santa Ana Mountains, and Desert Transition Bioregions. Yearlong resident on the coastal side of southern California mountains. Breeds in coastal sage scrub and chaparral habitats from February to August. They require semi-open habitats with evenly spaced shrubs one to two meters high. Occurs in chaparral dominated by fairly dense stands of chamise (Adenostoma fasciculatum). No Not Expected: The chaparral and coastal sage scrub habitats preferred by this species for foraging and nesting are not present within the project site. In addition, this species is possibly extirpated from the area (CDFW 2021a). Attachment D – Potentially Occurring Special-Status Biological Resources Alta Fontana Mixed Used Project D-2 Biological Resources Assessment Report Table D-1: Potentially Occurring Special-Status Biological Resources Scientific Name Common Name Special- Status Rank* Habitat Preferences and Distribution Affinities Observed On-site Potential to Occur Athene cunicularia burrowing owl SSC G4 S3 Yearlong resident of California. Primarily a grassland species, but it persists and even thrives in some landscapes highly altered by human activity. Occurs in open, annual or perennial grasslands, deserts, and scrublands characterized by low- growing vegetation. The overriding characteristics of suitable habitat appear to be burrows for roosting and nesting and relatively short vegetation with only sparse shrubs and taller vegetation. No Not Expected: No burrowing owls or suitable burrows (>4 inches in diameter) capable of providing roosting and nesting opportunities were observed within the project site. The lack of suitable burrows, quality of surface soils within the project site, ongoing weed abatement, and the surrounding residential land uses likely preclude burrowing owls from occurring. In addition, the presence of telephone and light poles are expected to further decrease the likelihood that burrowing owls would occur within the project site as these features provide perching opportunities for larger raptors (e.g., red-tailed hawk [Buteo jamaicensis]) that are known to prey on burrowing owls. Catostomus santaanae Santa Ana sucker FT G1 S1 Occur in the watersheds draining the San Gabriel and San Bernardino Mountains of southern California. Streams that Santa Ana Sucker inhabit are generally perennial streams with water ranging in depth from a few inches to several feet and with currents ranging from slight to swift. No Not Expected: Perennial streams preferred by this species are not present within the project site. Chaetodipus fallax fallax northwestern San Diego pocket mouse SSC G5T3T4 S3S4 Found terrestrially in a wide variety of temperate habitats ranging from chaparral and grasslands to scrub forests and deserts. Open habitat on the Pacific slope from southwestern San Bernardino County to northwestern Baja California. Habitat types include coastal sage scrub, sage scrub/grassland ecotones, and chaparral communities. Major habitat requirement is the presence of low growing vegetation or rocky outcroppings, as well as sandy soil to dig burrows. No Not Expected: Suitable coastal sage scrub/grassland and chaparral habitats with low growing vegetation and rocky outcroppings are not present within the project site. The project site is composed of disturbed habitat that is subject to routine weed abatement, resulting in heavily disturbed and compacted surface soils which likely precludes this species from occurring. Attachment D – Potentially Occurring Special-Status Biological Resources Alta Fontana Mixed Used Project D-3 Biological Resources Assessment Report Table D-1: Potentially Occurring Special-Status Biological Resources Scientific Name Common Name Special- Status Rank* Habitat Preferences and Distribution Affinities Observed On-site Potential to Occur Chaetodipus fallax pallidus pallid San Diego pocket mouse SSC G5T34 S3S4 Common resident of sandy herbaceous areas, usually in association with rocks or course gravel in southwestern California. Occurs mainly in arid coastal and desert border areas. Habitats include coastal scrub, chamise-redshank chaparral, mixed chaparral, sagebrush, desert wash, desert scrub, desert succulent shrub, pinyon-juniper, and annual grassland. No Not Expected: Suitable coastal sage scrub, chamise- redshank chaparral, mixed chaparral, sagebrush, desert wash, desert scrub, desert succulent shrub, pinyon- juniper, and annual grassland habitats preferred by this species are not present within the project site. The project site is composed of disturbed habitat that is subject to routine weed abatement, resulting in heavily disturbed and compacted surface soils which likely precludes this species from occurring. Danaus plexippus (California overwintering population) monarch butterfly FC G4T2T3 S2S3 Winter roost sites extend along the coast from northern Mendocino to Baja California, Mexico. Roosts are located in wind-protected tree groves (eucalyptus, Monterey pine, cypress), with nectar and water sources nearby. No Not Expected: The survey area does not provide suitable habitat for this species. Based on maps of known wintering roosts for this species, there are no known roosts in this area (Xerces Society 2021). Dipodomys merriami parvus San Bernardino kangaroo rat FE SCE G5T1 S1 Primarily found in Riversidian alluvial fan sage scrub and sandy loam soils, alluvial fans and flood plains, and along washes with nearby sage scrub. May occur at lower densities in Riversidian upland sage scrub, chaparral and grassland in uplands and tributaries in proximity to Riversidian alluvial fan sage scrub habitats. Tend to avoid rocky substrates and prefer sandy loam substrates for digging of shallow burrows. No Not Expected: Suitable Riversidian alluvial fan sage scrub habitat with sandy soils preferred by this species for burrowing are not present within the project site. The quality of surface soils within the project site (e.g., heavily disturbed/compacted), ongoing weed abatement, and disconnection of the project site from natural fluvial processes likely precludes this species from occurring within the project site. Dipodomys stephensi Stephens' kangaroo rat FE ST G2 S2 Occur in arid and semi-arid habitats of open grassland or sparse shrublands with less than 50% protective cover. Require soft, well-drained substrate for building burrows and are typically found in areas with sandy soil in areas with <30 percent slope. No Not Expected: Suitable open grassland and sparse shrubland habitats with soft, sandy soils preferred by this species for burrowing are not present within the project site. The project site is composed of disturbed habitat that is subject to routine weed abatement, resulting in heavily disturbed and compacted surface soils which likely precludes this species from occurring. Additionally, there are no occurrence records for this species within 5 miles of the project site (CDFW 2021a). Attachment D – Potentially Occurring Special-Status Biological Resources Alta Fontana Mixed Used Project D-4 Biological Resources Assessment Report Table D-1: Potentially Occurring Special-Status Biological Resources Scientific Name Common Name Special- Status Rank* Habitat Preferences and Distribution Affinities Observed On-site Potential to Occur Empidonax traillii extimus southwestern willow flycatcher FE SE G5T2 S1 Uncommon summer resident in southern California primarily found in lower elevation riparian habitats occurring along streams or in meadows. The structure of suitable breeding habitat typically consists of a dense mid-story and understory and can also include a dense canopy. Nest sites are generally located near surface water or saturated soils. The presence of surface water, swampy conditions, standing or flowing water under the riparian canopy are preferred. No Not Expected: Riparian habitats with thickets of willows that are adjacent to surface water preferred by this species for foraging and nesting are not present within the project site. Additionally, there are no occurrence records for this species within 5 miles of the project site (CDFW 2021a). Eumops perotis californicus western mastiff bat SSC G4G5T4 S3S4 Primarily a cliff-dwelling species, roost generally under exfoliating rock slabs. Roosts are generally high above the ground, usually allowing a clear vertical drop of at least 3 meters below the entrance for flight. In California, it is most frequently encountered in broad open areas. Its foraging habitat includes dry desert washes, flood plains, chaparral, oak woodland, open ponderosa pine forest, grassland, and agricultural areas. No Low: This species is not expected to roost within the project site due to the lack of exfoliating rock slabs but may forage over the site if roosting in the general vicinity. Gila orcuttii arroyo chub SSC G2 S2 Warm streams of the Los Angeles Plain, which are typically muddy torrents during the winter, and clear quiet brooks in the summer, possibly drying up in places. They are found both in slow- moving and fast-moving sections, but generally deeper than 16 inches. No Not Expected: Perennial streams preferred by this species are not present within the project site. Lasiurus xanthinus western yellow bat SSC G4G5 S3 Uncommon in California, known only in Los Angeles and San Bernardino Counties. Occurs in valley foothill riparian, desert riparian, desert wash, and palm oasis habitats. Prefers to roost and feed in, and near, palm oases and riparian habitats. Commonly found in the southwestern U.S. roosting in the skirt of dead fronds in both native and non-native palm trees. No Low: This species is not expected to roost within the project site due to the lack of palm oases and riparian habitats, but may forage over the site if roosting in the general vicinity. Laterallus jamaicensis coturniculus California black rail ST FP G3G4T1 S1 Suitable habitat generally includes salt marshes, freshwater marshes, and wet meadows. Typical associated vegetation includes pickle weed (Salicornia virginica) in salt marshes and bulrushes in less saline habitats. No Not Expected: This species is not expected to nest and forage within the project site due to the lack of salt marsh, freshwater marsh, and wet meadow habitats. Additionally, there are no occurrence records for this species within 5 miles of the project site (CDFW 2021a). Lepus californicus bennettii San Diego black-tailed jackrabbit SSC G5T3T4 S3S4 Occupies many diverse habitats, but primarily is found in arid regions supporting short-grass habitats, agricultural fields, or sparse coastal scrub. No Not Expected: Suitable habitat preferred by this species is not present within the project site. Attachment D – Potentially Occurring Special-Status Biological Resources Alta Fontana Mixed Used Project D-5 Biological Resources Assessment Report Table D-1: Potentially Occurring Special-Status Biological Resources Scientific Name Common Name Special- Status Rank* Habitat Preferences and Distribution Affinities Observed On-site Potential to Occur Neotoma lepida intermedia San Diego desert woodrat SSC G5T3T4 S3S4 Occurs in coastal scrub communities between San Luis Obispo and San Diego Counties. Found in a variety of shrub and desert habitats, primarily associated with rock outcroppings, boulders, cacti, or areas of dense undergrowth. Woodrats often are associated with cholla cactus which they use for water and dens or boulders and boulder piles. The most common natural habitats for records are chaparral, coastal sage scrub (including RSS and Diegan coastal sage scrub) and grassland. No Not Expected: This species is not expected due to the lack of suitable habitat. Nyctinomops femorosaccus pocketed free-tailed bat SSC S3S4 S3 Often found in pinyon-juniper woodlands, desert scrub, desert succulent shrub, desert riparian, desert wash, alkali desert scrub, Joshua tree woodland, and palm oasis habitats. Prefers rocky desert areas with high cliffs or rock outcrops, which are used as roosting sites. Considered a resident in San Diego County. No Not Expected: This species is not expected due to the lack of suitable roosting or foraging habitat. Oncorhynchus mykiss irideus pop. 10 steelhead - southern California DPS FE G5T1Q S1 Steelhead can survive in a wide range of temperature conditions. Species is found where dissolved oxygen concentration is at least 7 parts per million. In streams, deep low-velocity pools are important wintering habitats. Spawning habitat consists of gravel substrates free of excessive silt. No Not Expected: Perennial streams preferred by this species are not present within the project site. Ovis canadensis nelson desert bighorn sheep FP G4T4 S3 Preferred habitat is near mountainous terrain above the desert floor that is visually open, as well as steep and rocky. Most Mojave Desert mountain ranges satisfy these requirements well. Surface water is another element that is considered important to population health. No Not Expected: Mountainous terrain preferred by this species is not present within the project site. Perognathus longimembris brevinasus Los Angeles pocket mouse SSC G5T2 S1S2 Occurs in lower elevation grasslands and coastal sage scrub communities in and around the Los Angeles Basin. Prefers open ground with fine sandy soils. May not dig extensive burrows, but instead will seek refuge under weeds and dead leaves instead. No Not Expected: Suitable grassland and coastal sage scrub habitats with fine sandy soils preferred by this species for burrowing are not present within the project site. The project site is composed of disturbed habitat that is subject to routine weed abatement, resulting in heavily disturbed and compacted surface soils which likely precludes this species from occurring. Attachment D – Potentially Occurring Special-Status Biological Resources Alta Fontana Mixed Used Project D-6 Biological Resources Assessment Report Table D-1: Potentially Occurring Special-Status Biological Resources Scientific Name Common Name Special- Status Rank* Habitat Preferences and Distribution Affinities Observed On-site Potential to Occur Phrynosoma blainvillii coast horned lizard SSC G3G4 S3S4 Occurs in a wide variety of vegetation types including coastal sage scrub, annual grassland, chaparral, oak woodland, riparian woodland and coniferous forest. Its elevational range extends up to 4,000 feet in the Sierra Nevada foothills and up to 6,000 feet in the mountains of southern California. In inland areas, this species is restricted to areas with pockets of open microhabitat, created by disturbance (e.g. fire, floods, unimproved roads, grazing lands, and fire breaks). The key elements of such habitats are loose, fine soils with a high sand fraction; an abundance of native ants or other insects; and open areas with limited overstory for basking and low, but relatively dense shrubs for refuge. No Not Expected: Loose, fine sandy soils preferred by this species are not present within the project site. The project site is composed of disturbed habitat that is subject to routine weed abatement, resulting in heavily disturbed and compacted surface soils which likely precludes this species from occurring. The site is also fragmented from any natural habitat where this species may be extant. Polioptila californica californica coastal California gnatcatcher FT SSC G4G5T3Q S2 Yearlong resident of sage scrub habitats that are dominated by California sagebrush. This species generally occurs below 750 feet amsl in coastal regions and below 1,500 feet amsl inland. Ranges from the Ventura County, south to San Diego County and northern Baja California and it is less common in sage scrub with a high percentage of tall shrubs. Prefers habitat with more low- growing vegetation. No Not Expected: Suitable coastal sage scrub habitat dominated by California sagebrush are not present within the project site. Additionally, the project site is not located within Federally designated Critical Habitat for this species. Rana muscosa southern mountain yellow-legged frog FE SE WL G1 S1 The species inhabits ponds, lakes, and streams at moderate to high elevations. Usually associated with montane riparian habitats in lodgepole pine, yellow pine (Pinus ponderosa), sugar pine (Pinus lambertiana), white fir (Abies concolor), whitebark pine (Pinus albicaulis), and wet meadow vegetation types. Occupied alpine lakes usually have margins that are grassy or muddy and inhabit sandy or rocky shores at lower elevations. Streams utilized vary from rocky, high gradient streams with numerous pools, rapids, and small waterfalls to those with marshy edges and sod banks. Species seems to prefer streams of low gradient and slow or moderate flow with very small, shallow streams being less frequently used. No Not Expected: Montane riparian and wet meadow habitats preferred by this species are not present within the project site. This species only occurs in high-altitude aquatic habitats. Rhaphiomidas terminatus abdominalis Delhi Sands flower-loving fly FE G1T1 S1 Restricted to areas that include Delhi fine sand, an aeolian (wind-deposited) soil types. The highest density of this species has been found in habitat that includes a variety of plants including California buckwheat (Eriogonum fasciculatum), California croton (Croton californicus), deerweed (Acmispon glaber), and telegraph weed (Heterotheca grandiflora). No Not Expected: Delhi fine sand soils are not present within the project site. Attachment D – Potentially Occurring Special-Status Biological Resources Alta Fontana Mixed Used Project D-7 Biological Resources Assessment Report Table D-1: Potentially Occurring Special-Status Biological Resources Scientific Name Common Name Special- Status Rank* Habitat Preferences and Distribution Affinities Observed On-site Potential to Occur Rhinichthys osculus ssp. 8 Santa Ana speckled dace SSC G5T1 S1 Requires permanent flowing streams with summer water temperatures of 62 – 68 degrees Fahrenheit. Inhabits shallow cobble and gravel riffles and small streams that flow through steep, rocky canyons with chaparral covered walls. No Not Expected: Perennial streams preferred by this species are not present within the project site. Spea hammondii western spadefoot SSC G2G3 S3 Prefers open areas with sandy or gravelly soils, in a variety of habitats including mixed woodlands, grasslands, coastal sage scrub, chaparral, sandy washes, lowlands, river floodplains, alluvial fans, playas, alkali flats, foothills, and mountains. Rain pools which do not contain American bullfrogs (Lithobates catesbeianus), predatory fish, or crayfish are necessary for breeding. Estivates in upland habitats adjacent to potential breeding sites in burrows approximating 3 feet in depth. No Not Expected: Suitable sandy and gravelly soils and habitats preferred by this species area not present within the project site. The project site is composed of disturbed habitat that is subject to routine weed abatement, resulting in heavily disturbed and compacted surface soils which likely precludes this species from occurring. Additionally, there are no occurrence records for this species within 5 miles of the project site (CDFW 2021a). Thamnophis hammondii two-striped gartersnake SSC G4 S3S4 Occurs in or near permanent fresh water, often along streams with rocky beds and riparian growth up to 7,000 feet amsl. No Not Expected: Permanent freshwater is not present within the project site. Additionally, there are no occurrence records for this species within 5 miles of the project site (CDFW 2021a). Vireo bellii pusillus least Bell's vireo FE SE SSC G5T2 S2 Summer resident in southern California. Breeding habitat generally consists of dense, low, shrubby vegetation in riparian areas, and mesquite brushlands, often near water in arid regions. Early successional cottonwood-willow riparian groves are preferred for nesting. The most critical structural component of nesting habitat in California is a dense shrub layer that is 2 to 10 feet above ground. The presence of water, including ponded surface water or moist soil conditions, may also be a key component for nesting habitat. No Not Expected: Riparian habitats with early successional cottonwood – willow groves that are adjacent to surface water preferred by this species for foraging and nesting are not present within the project site. Additionally, there are no occurrence records for this species within 5 miles of the project site (CDFW 2021a). SPECIAL-STATUS PLANT SPECIES Ambrosia monogyra singlewhorl burrobrush 2B.2 G5 S2 Perennial shrub. Found in sandy soils within chaparral and Sonoran Desert scrub habitat. Found at elevations ranging from 33 to 1,640 feet amsl. Blooming period is August through November. No Not Expected: The project site is composed of disturbed habitat that is subject to routine weed abatement, resulting in heavily disturbed and compacted surface soils which likely precludes this species from occurring. Ambrosia pumila San Diego Ambrosia FE 1B.1 G1 S1 Perennial rhizomatous herb. Occurs on sandy loam or clay soils (often in disturbed areas) and sometimes alkaline soils. Habitats include chaparral, coastal scrub, valley and foothill grassland, and vernal pools. Grows in elevation ranging from 66 to 1,362 feet amsl. Blooming period is from April to October. No Not Expected: The project site is composed of disturbed habitat that is subject to routine weed abatement, resulting in heavily disturbed and compacted surface soils which likely precludes this species from occurring. Attachment D – Potentially Occurring Special-Status Biological Resources Alta Fontana Mixed Used Project D-8 Biological Resources Assessment Report Table D-1: Potentially Occurring Special-Status Biological Resources Scientific Name Common Name Special- Status Rank* Habitat Preferences and Distribution Affinities Observed On-site Potential to Occur Arctostaphylos glandulosa ssp. gabrielensis San Gabriel manzanita 1B.2 G5T3 S3 Perennial evergreen shrub. Occurs on rocky soils within chaparral habitats. Occurs at elevations ranging from 1,952 to 4,921 feet amsl. Blooms during the month of March. No Not Expected: The project site is outside of the known elevation range for this species. Arenaria paludicola marsh sandwort FE SE 1B.1 G1 S1 Perennial stoloniferous herb. Found on sandy, openings within marshes and swamps (freshwater or brackish). Found at elevations ranging from 12 to 558 feet amsl. Blooming period is May through August. No Not Expected: The project site is outside of the known elevation range for this species. In addition, the only occurrence record(s) of this species in the project vicinity (5-mile radius) are considered extirpated (CDFW 2021a). Calochortus plummerae Plummer's mariposa-lily 4.2 G4 S4 Perennial bulbiferous herb. Occurs on granitic and rocky soils within chaparral, cismontane woodland, coastal scrub, lower montane coniferous forest, and valley/foothill grassland. Grows in elevations ranging from 328 to 5,577 feet amsl. Blooming period is May through July. No Not Expected: The project site is composed of disturbed habitat that is subject to routine weed abatement, resulting in heavily disturbed and compacted surface soils which likely precludes this species from occurring. Calochortus weedii var. intermedius intermediate mariposa-lily 1B.2 G3G4T2 S3 Perennial bulbiferous herb. Found in chaparral, coastal scrub, and valley and foothill grasslands in rocky or calcareous soils. Found at elevations ranging from 344 to 2,805 feet amsl. Blooming period is from May to July. No Not Expected: The project site is composed of disturbed habitat that is subject to routine weed abatement, resulting in heavily disturbed and compacted surface soils which likely precludes this species from occurring. Chloropyron maritimum ssp. maritimum salt marsh bird's-beak FE SE 1B.2 G4?T1 S1 Annual herb (hemiparasitic). Occurs on coastal dunes and marshes and swamps (coastal salt). Found at elevations ranging from 0 to 98 feet amsl. Blooming period is May through October (November). No Not Expected: Suitable habitats preferred by this species are not present within the project site. In addition, the project site is outside of the known elevation range for this species. In addition, the only occurrence. Chorizanthe parryi var. parryi Parry's spineflower 1B.1 G3T2 S2 Annual herb. Occurs on sandy and/or rocky soils in chaparral, coastal sage scrub, and sandy openings within alluvial washes and margins. Found at elevations ranging from 951 to 3,773 feet amsl. Blooming period is April through June. No Not Expected: The project site is composed of disturbed habitat that is subject to routine weed abatement, resulting in heavily disturbed and compacted surface soils which likely precludes this species from occurring. Chorizanthe xanti var. leucotheca white-bracted spineflower 1B.2 G4T3 S3 Annual herb. Occurs on sandy or gravelly soils in coastal sage scrub (alluvial fans), Mojavean desert scrub, and pinyon and juniper woodland habitats. Found at elevations ranging from 984 to 3,937 feet amsl. Blooming period is April through June. No Not Expected: The project site is composed of disturbed habitat that is subject to routine weed abatement, resulting in heavily disturbed and compacted surface soils which likely precludes this species from occurring. Attachment D – Potentially Occurring Special-Status Biological Resources Alta Fontana Mixed Used Project D-9 Biological Resources Assessment Report Table D-1: Potentially Occurring Special-Status Biological Resources Scientific Name Common Name Special- Status Rank* Habitat Preferences and Distribution Affinities Observed On-site Potential to Occur Cladium californicum California saw-grass 2B.2 G4 S2 Perennial rhizomatous herb. Found in meadows and seeps, marshes and swamps (alkaline or freshwater). Found at elevations ranging from 197 to 5,249 feet amsl. Blooming period is June through September. No Not Expected: The project site is composed of disturbed habitat that is subject to routine weed abatement, resulting in heavily disturbed and compacted surface soils which likely precludes this species from occurring. In addition, the only occurrence record(s) of this species in the project vicinity (5-mile radius) are considered extirpated (CDFW 2021a). Claytonia peirsonii ssp. peirsonii Peirson's spring beauty 1B.2 G2G3T2 S2 Perennial herb. Grows on scree within subalpine coniferous forest and upper montane coniferous forest habitats. Found at elevations ranging from 4,954 to 9,005 feet amsl. Blooming period is (March) May through June. No Not Expected: The project site is outside of the known elevation range for this species. Dodecahema leptoceras slender-horned spineflower FE SE 1B.1 G1 S1 Annual herb. Occurs on flood deposited terraces and washes in chaparral, coastal scrub, and alluvial fan sage scrub habitats. Found at elevations ranging from 1,181 to 2,690 feet amsl. Blooming period is April through June. No Not Expected: The project site is composed of disturbed habitat that is subject to routine weed abatement, resulting in heavily disturbed and compacted surface soils which likely precludes this species from occurring. Eriastrum densifolium ssp. sanctorum Santa Ana River woollystar FE SE 1B.1 G4T1 S1 Perennial herb. Grows on sandy or gravelly soils within chaparral and coastal scrub (alluvial fan) habitats. Found at elevations ranging from 298 to 2,001 feet amsl. Blooming period is April through September. No Not Expected: The project site is composed of disturbed habitat that is subject to routine weed abatement, resulting in heavily disturbed and compacted surface soils which likely precludes this species from occurring. Eriogonum microthecum var. johnstonii Johnston's buckwheat 1B.3 G5T2 S2 Perennial deciduous shrub. Grows on rocky soils in subalpine coniferous forest and upper montane coniferous forest habitat. Found at elevations ranging from 6,000 to 9,600 feet amsl. Blooming period is July through September. No Not Expected: The project site is outside of the known elevation range for this species. Horkelia cuneata var. puberula mesa horkelia 1B.1 G4T1 S1 Perennial herb. Found on sandy or gravelly soils within chaparral, cismontane woodland, and coastal scrub habitats. Found at elevations ranging from 230 to 2,657 feet amsl. Blooming period is February through July (September). No Not Expected: The project site is composed of disturbed habitat that is subject to routine weed abatement, resulting in heavily disturbed and compacted surface soils which likely precludes this species from occurring. Lepidium virginicum var. robinsonii Robinson's pepper-grass 4.3 G5T3 S3 Annual herb. Dry soils on chaparral and coastal sage scrub. Found at elevations ranging from 66 to 4,396 feet amsl. Blooming period is January through July. No Not Expected: The project site is composed of disturbed habitat that is subject to routine weed abatement, resulting in heavily disturbed and compacted surface soils which likely precludes this species from occurring. Attachment D – Potentially Occurring Special-Status Biological Resources Alta Fontana Mixed Used Project D-10 Biological Resources Assessment Report Table D-1: Potentially Occurring Special-Status Biological Resources Scientific Name Common Name Special- Status Rank* Habitat Preferences and Distribution Affinities Observed On-site Potential to Occur Lilium parryi lemon lily 1B.2 G3 S3 Perennial bulbiferous herb. Occurs on mesic soils within lower montane coniferous forest, meadows and seeps, riparian forest, and upper montane coniferous forest. Grows in elevation ranging from 4,003 to 9,006 feet amsl. Blooming period is July through August. No Not Expected: The project site is outside of the known elevation range for this species. Linanthus concinnus San Gabriel linanthus 1B.2 G2 S2 Annual herb. Grows in rocky openings within chaparral, lower montane coniferous forest, and upper montane coniferous forest. Found at elevations ranging from 4,987 to 9,186 feet amsl. Blooming period is April through July. No Not Expected: The project site is outside of the known elevation range for this species. Lycium parishii Parish's desert-thorn 2B.3 G4 S1 Perennial shrub. Grows in coastal scrub and Sonoran Desert scrub habitats. Found at elevations ranging from 443 to 3,281 feet amsl. Blooming period is March through April. No Not Expected: The project site is composed of disturbed habitat that is subject to routine weed abatement, resulting in heavily disturbed and compacted surface soils which likely precludes this species from occurring. In addition, the only occurrence record(s) of this species in the project vicinity (5-mile radius) are considered extirpated (CDFW 2021a). Malacothamnus parishii Parish's bush-mallow 1A GXQ SX Perennial deciduous shrub. Found in chaparral and coastal scrub habitats. Found at elevations ranging from 1,000 to 1,493 feet amsl. Blooming period is June through July. No Not Expected: The project site is composed of disturbed habitat that is subject to routine weed abatement, resulting in heavily disturbed and compacted surface soils which likely precludes this species from occurring. In addition, the only occurrence record(s) of this species in the project vicinity (5-mile radius) are considered possibly extirpated (CDFW 2021a). Monardella australis ssp. jokerstii Jokerst's monardella 1B.1 G4T1? S1? Perennial rhizomatous herb. Grows on steep scree or talus slopes between breccia and secondary alluvial benches along drainages and washes. Found in chaparral and lower montane coniferous forest habitat. Blooming period is July through September. Found at elevations ranging from 4,429 to 5,741 feet amsl. No Not Expected: The project site is outside of the known elevation range for this species. Monardella pringlei Pringle's monardella 1A GX SX Annual herb. Found on sandy soils within coastal scrub habitats. Found at elevations ranging from 984 to 1,312 feet amsl. Blooming period is May through June. No Not Expected: The project site is composed of disturbed habitat that is subject to routine weed abatement, resulting in heavily disturbed and compacted surface soils which likely precludes this species from occurring. In addition, the only occurrence record(s) of this species in the project vicinity (5-mile radius) are considered possibly extirpated (CDFW 2021a). Attachment D – Potentially Occurring Special-Status Biological Resources Alta Fontana Mixed Used Project D-11 Biological Resources Assessment Report Table D-1: Potentially Occurring Special-Status Biological Resources Scientific Name Common Name Special- Status Rank* Habitat Preferences and Distribution Affinities Observed On-site Potential to Occur Muhlenbergia californica California muhly 4.3 G4 S4 Perennial rhizomatous herb. Found in mesic areas, meadows, seeps, and streambanks within chaparral, coastal scrub, and lower montane coniferous forest. Found at elevations ranging from 328 to 6,562 feet amsl. Blooming period is June through September. No Not Expected: The project site is composed of disturbed habitat that is subject to routine weed abatement, resulting in heavily disturbed and compacted surface soils which likely precludes this species from occurring. Muhlenbergia utilis aparejo grass 2B.2 G4 S2S3 Perennial herb. Usually occurs in coastal sage scrub, creosote bush scrub, and wetland riparian habitats. Found at elevations ranging from 820 to 3,281 feet amsl. Blooming period is October through March. No Not Expected: The project site is composed of disturbed habitat that is subject to routine weed abatement, resulting in heavily disturbed and compacted surface soils which likely precludes this species from occurring. In addition, the only occurrence record(s) of this species in the project vicinity (5-mile radius) are considered extirpated (CDFW 2021a). Navarretia prostrata prostrate vernal pool navarretia 1B.1 G2 S2 Annual herb. Blooms April through July. Occurs in mesic sites and on alkaline soils in coastal scrub, valley and foothill grassland, vernal pool, meadows, and seeps. Known elevations range from 5 to 4,055 feet amsl. No Not Expected: The project site is composed of disturbed habitat that is subject to routine weed abatement, resulting in heavily disturbed and compacted surface soils which likely precludes this species from occurring. In addition, the only occurrence record(s) of this species in the project vicinity (5-mile radius) are considered extirpated (CDFW 2021a). Opuntia basilaris var. brachyclada short-joint beavertail 1B.2 G5T3 S3 Perennial stem succulent. Grows in chaparral, Joshua tree woodland, Mojavean desert scrub, and pinyon and juniper woodland habitats. Found at elevations ranging from 1,394 to 5,906 feet amsl. Blooming period is April through June. No Not Expected: The project site is outside of the known elevation range for this species. Oreonana vestita woolly mountain-parsley 1B.3 G3 S3 Perennial herb. Associated with gravel and talus soils within lower montane coniferous forest, subalpine coniferous forest, and upper montane coniferous forest. Found at elevations ranging from 5,299 to 11,483 feet amsl. Blooming period is March through September. No Not Expected: The project site is outside of the known elevation range for this species. Phacelia stellaris Brand's star phacelia 1B.1 G1 S1 Annual herb. Found in coastal dunes and coastal scrub habitats. Found at elevations ranging from 3 to 1,312 feet amsl. Blooming period is March through June. No Not Expected: The project site is composed of disturbed habitat that is subject to routine weed abatement, resulting in heavily disturbed and compacted surface soils which likely precludes this species from occurring. In addition, the only occurrence record(s) of this species in the project vicinity (5-mile radius) are considered possibly extirpated (CDFW 2021a). Attachment D – Potentially Occurring Special-Status Biological Resources Alta Fontana Mixed Used Project D-12 Biological Resources Assessment Report Table D-1: Potentially Occurring Special-Status Biological Resources Scientific Name Common Name Special- Status Rank* Habitat Preferences and Distribution Affinities Observed On-site Potential to Occur Pseudognaphalium leucocephalum white rabbit-tobacco 2B.2 G4 S2 Perennial herb. Found on sandy and gravelly soils within chaparral, cismontane woodland, coastal scrub, and riparian woodland habitats. Found at elevations ranging from 0 to 6,890 feet amsl. Blooming period is August (July) through November (December). No Not Expected: The project site is composed of disturbed habitat that is subject to routine weed abatement, resulting in heavily disturbed and compacted surface soils which likely precludes this species from occurring. In addition, the only occurrence record(s) of this species in the project vicinity (5-mile radius) are considered extirpated (CDFW 2021a). Sagittaria sanfordii Sanford's arrowhead 1B.2 G3 S3 Perennial rhizomatous herb (emergent). Found in standing or slow-moving freshwater ponds, marshes, and ditches. Known elevations range from 0 to 1,180 feet amsl. Blooms May through October (November). No Not Expected: The project site is composed of disturbed habitat that is subject to routine weed abatement, resulting in heavily disturbed and compacted surface soils which likely precludes this species from occurring. Senecio aphanactis chaparral ragwort 2B.2 G3 S2 Annual herb. Grows on alkaline soils within chaparral, cismontane woodland, and coastal scrub habitats. Found at elevations ranging from 49 to 2,625 feet amsl. Blooming period is January through April (May). No Not Expected: The project site is composed of disturbed habitat that is subject to routine weed abatement, resulting in heavily disturbed and compacted surface soils which likely precludes this species from occurring. Sphenopholis obtusata prairie wedge grass 2B.2 G5 S2 Perennial herb. Occurs in cismontane woodland and meadows and seeps within mesic soils. Found at elevations ranging from 984 to 6,562 feet amsl. Blooming period is April through July. No Not Expected: The project site is composed of disturbed habitat that is subject to routine weed abatement, resulting in heavily disturbed and compacted surface soils which likely precludes this species from occurring. Streptanthus bernardinus Laguna Mountains jewelflower 4.3 G3G4 S3S4 Perennial herb. Occurs in chaparral and lower montane coniferous forest habitat. Found at elevations ranging from 2,198 to 8,202 feet amsl. Blooming period is May through August. No Not Expected: The project site is outside of the known elevation range for this species. Symphyotrichum defoliatum San Bernardino aster 1B.2 G2 S2 Perennial rhizomatous herb. Occurs near ditches, streams, and springs within cismontane woodland, coastal scrub, lower montane coniferous forest, meadows, seeps, marshes, and valley/foothill grassland. Grows in elevations ranging from 0 through 6,700 feet amsl. Blooming period is July through November. No Not Expected: The project site is composed of disturbed habitat that is subject to routine weed abatement, resulting in heavily disturbed and compacted surface soils which likely precludes this species from occurring. Viola pinetorum ssp. grisea grey-leaved violet 1B.2 G4G5T3 S3 Perennial herb. Associated with upper montane coniferous forest, subalpine coniferous forest, meadows and seeps. Found at elevations ranging from 4,921 to 11,155 feet amsl. Blooming period is April through July. No Not Expected: The project site is outside of the known elevation range for this species. Attachment D – Potentially Occurring Special-Status Biological Resources Alta Fontana Mixed Used Project D-13 Biological Resources Assessment Report Table D-1: Potentially Occurring Special-Status Biological Resources Scientific Name Common Name Special- Status Rank* Habitat Preferences and Distribution Affinities Observed On-site Potential to Occur SPECIAL-STATUS VEGETATION COMMUNITIES CNDDB/Holland (1986) California Walnut Woodland MCV (1995) California Walnut Series NVCS (2009) Juglans californica Woodland Alliance G2 S2.1 Found at elevations ranging from 490 to 2,952 feet amsl in riparian corridors, but most stands cover all hillslopes. Southern California black walnut is dominant or co-dominant in the tree canopy with white alder (Alnus rhombifolia), two petaled ash (Fraxinus dipetala), toyon (Heteromeles arbutifolia), coast live oak, valley oak (Quercus lobata), polished willow (Salix laevigata), arroyo willow (Salix lasiolepis), black elderberry (Sambucus nigra), and California bay (Umbellularia californica). Trees are less than 50 feet tall; canopy is open to continuous. Shrub layer is sparse to intermittent. Herbaceous layer is sparse or grassy. No Absent: This vegetation community was not observed within the project site. CNDDB/Holland (1986) Coastal and Valley Freshwater Marsh MCV (1995) Cattail Series, Bulrush-Cattail Series NVCS (2009) Typha (angustifolia, latifolia)- (Schoenoplectus spp.) Semipermanently Flooded Herbaceous Alliance, Typha domingensis Seasonally Flooded Temperate Herbaceous Alliance, Typha latifolia Seasonally Flooded Herbaceous Alliance G3 S2.1 Occurs at elevations ranging from 0 to 1,148 feet amsl in semi-permanently flooded freshwater or brackish marshes with clayey or silty soils. Narrowleaf cattail (Typha angustifolia), southern cattail (Typha domingensis) or bulrush (Typha latifolia) is dominant or co- dominant in the herbaceous layer with creeping bentgrass (Agrostis stolonifera), pacific silverweed (Argentina egedii), Cyperus spp., desert saltgrass (Distichlis spicata), cockspur grass (Echinochloa crus-galli), common spikerush (Eleocharis macrostachya), great horsetail (Equisetum telmateia), Juncus spp., least duckweed (Lemna minuta), broad leaved pepper grass (Lepidium latifolium), water parsley (Oenanthe sarmentosa), common knotweed (Persicaria lapathifolia), dotted smartweed (Persicaria punctate), common reed (Phragmites australis), Chairmaker's bulrush (Schoenoplectus americanus), California bulrush (Schoenoplectus californicus), Typha ×glauca and rough cocklebur (Xanthium strumarium). Emergent trees may be present at low cover, including Salix spp. No Absent: This vegetation community was not observed within the project site. Attachment D – Potentially Occurring Special-Status Biological Resources Alta Fontana Mixed Used Project D-14 Biological Resources Assessment Report Table D-1: Potentially Occurring Special-Status Biological Resources Scientific Name Common Name Special- Status Rank* Habitat Preferences and Distribution Affinities Observed On-site Potential to Occur CNDDB/Holland (1986) Riversidian Alluvial Fan Sage Scrub MCV (1995) Scalebroom Series NVCS (2009) Lepidospartum squamatum Intermittently Flooded Shrubland Alliance G1 S1.1 Found at elevations ranging from 164 to 4,922 feet amsl on intermittently or rarely flooded, low-gradient alluvial deposits along streams, washes, and fans. Scalebroom (Lepidospartum squamatum) is dominant, co-dominant, or conspicuous in the shrub canopy with burrobrush (Ambrosia salsola), California sagebrush, mule fat (Baccharis salicifolia), bladderpod (Cleome isomeris), California cholla (Cylindropuntia californica), brittlebush (Encelia farinosa), thick leaved yerba santa (Eriodictyon crassifolium), hairy yerba santa (Eriodictyon trichocalyx), California buckwheat, chaparral yucca (Hesperoyucca whipplei), deerweed, laurel sumac (Malosma laurina), prickly- pear cactus (Opuntia littoralis), lemonade berry (Rhus integrifolia), sugar bush (Rhus ovata), skunkbrush (Rhus aromatica), and poison oak (Toxicodendron diversilobum). Emergent trees or tall shrubs may be present at low cover, including mountain mahogany (Cercocarpus betuloides), southern California black walnut, California juniper (Juniperus californica), California sycamore, Fremont cottonwood, or black elderberry. Shrubs are less than 7 feet tall; canopy is open to continuous, and two tiered. Herbaceous is layer variable and may be grassy. No Absent: This vegetation community was not observed within the project site. CNDDB/Holland (1986) Southern Riparian Forest MCV (1995) N/A NVCS (2009) N/A G4 S4 Riparian zones dominated by larger, mature trees consisting of various species of willows, cottonwoods, and sycamores. No Absent: This vegetation community was not observed within the project site. CNDDB/Holland (1986) Southern Sycamore Alder Riparian Woodland MCV (1995) California Sycamore Series NVCS (2009) Platanus racemosa Woodland Alliance G4 S4 Found at elevations ranging from sea level to 7,874 feet amsl in gullies, intermittent streams, springs, seeps, stream banks, and terraces adjacent to floodplains that are subject to high- intensity flooding. Soils are rocky or cobbly alluvium with permanent moisture at depth. California sycamore is a dominant or co-dominant in the tree canopy with white alder, southern California black walnut, Fremont cottonwood, coast live oak, valley oak, narrowleaf willow, Goodding's black willow (Salix gooddingii), polished willow, arroyo willow, yellow willow (Salix lutea), Peruvian pepper tree (Schinus mole), and California bay. No Absent: This vegetation community was not observed within the project site. * U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) FE Endangered – any species which is in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its range. FT Threatened – any species which is likely to become an endangered species within the foreseeable future throughout all or a Attachment D – Potentially Occurring Special-Status Biological Resources Alta Fontana Mixed Used Project D-15 Biological Resources Assessment Report significant portion of its range. FC Candidate – any species which has been designated as a candidate eligible for considering to be listed under the Federal Endangered Species Act. California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) SE Endangered – any native species or subspecies of bird, mammal, fish, amphibian, reptile, or plant which is in serious danger of becoming extinct throughout all, or a significant portion, of its range due to one or more causes, including loss of habitat, change in habitat, overexploitation, predation, competition, or disease. SCE State Candidate for Listing as Endangered – the classification provided to a native species or subspecies of a bird, mammal, fish, amphibian, reptile, or plant that the Fish and Game Commission has formally noticed as being under review by the Department of Fish and Wildlife for addition to the list of endangered species, or a species for which the commission has published a notice of proposed regulation to add the species to the list of endangered species. ST Threatened – any native species or subspecies of bird, mammal, fish, amphibian, reptile, or plant that, although not presently threatened with extinction, is likely to become an endangered species in the foreseeable future in the absence of the special protection and management efforts required under the California Endangered Species Act. FP Fully Protected – any native species or subspecies of bird, mammal, fish, amphibian, or reptile that were determined by the State of California to be rare or face possible extinction. SSC Species of Special Concern – any species, subspecies, or distinct population of fish, amphibian, reptile, bird, or mammal native to California that currently satisfies one or more of the following criteria: - is extirpated from California or, in the case of birds, in its primary seasonal or breeding role; - is listed as Federally-, but not State-, threatened or endangered; meets the State definition of threatened or endangered but has not formally been listed. - is experiencing, or formerly experienced, serious (noncyclical) population declines or range retractions (not reversed) that, if continued or resumed, could qualify it for State threatened or endangered status; or - has naturally small populations exhibiting high susceptibility to risk from any factor(s), that if realized, could lead to declines that would qualify it for State threatened or endangered status. WL Watch List - taxa that were previously designated as “Species of Special Concern” but no longer merit that status, or which do not yet meet SSC criteria, but for which there is concern and a need for additional information to clarify status. California Native Plant Society (CNPS) California Rare Plant Rank 1A Presumed extirpated in California and either rare or extinct elsewhere. 1B Plants rare, threatened, or endangered in California and elsewhere. 2B Plants rare, threatened, or endangered in California but more common elsewhere. 4 Plants of limited distribution – Watch List. Threat Ranks .1 Seriously threatened in California (over 80% of occurrences threatened/high degree any immediacy of threat). .2 Moderately threatened in California (20 to 80 percent of occurrences threatened/moderate degree and immediacy of threat). .3 Not very threatened in California (less than 20 percent of occurrences threatened/low degree and immediacy of threat or no current threats known). NatureServe Conservation Status Rank The Global Rank (G#) reflects the overall condition and imperilment of a species throughout its global range. The Infraspecific Taxon Rank (T#) reflects the global situation of just the subspecies or variety. The State Rank (S#) reflects the condition and imperilment of an element throughout its range within California. (G#Q) reflects that the element is very rare but there are taxonomic questions associated with it; the calculated G rank is qualified by adding a Q after the G#). Adding a ? to a rank expresses uncertainty about the rank. G1/T1 Critically Imperiled – At very high risk of extinction due to extreme rarity (often 5 or fewer populations), very steep declines, or other factors. G2/T2 Imperiled— At high risk of extinction due to very restricted range, very few populations (often 20 or fewer), steep declines, or other factors. G3/T3 Vulnerable— At moderate risk of extinction due to a restricted range, relatively few populations (often 80 or fewer), recent and widespread declines, or other factors. G4/T4 Apparently Secure— Uncommon but not rare; some cause for long-term concern due to declines or other factors. G5 Secure – Common; widespread and abundant. S1 Critically Imperiled – Critically imperiled in the state because of extreme rarity (often 5 or fewer occurrences) or because of some factor(s) such as very steep declines making it especially vulnerable to extirpation from the State. S2 Imperiled – Imperiled in the State because of rarity due to very restricted range, very few populations (often 20 or fewer), steep declines, or other factors making it very vulnerable to extirpation from the nation or State. S3 Vulnerable – Vulnerable in the State due to a restricted range, relatively few populations (often 80 or fewer), recent and widespread declines, or other factors making it vulnerable to extirpation. S4 Apparently Secure – Uncommon but not rare; some cause for long-term concern due to declines or other factors. Attachment E References Attachment E – References Alta Fontana Mixed Use Project E-1 Biological Resources Assessment Report Billerman, S. M., B. K. Keeney, P. G. Rodewald, and T. S. Schulenberg (Editors). 2020. Birds of the World. Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology, Ithaca, NY, USA. Accessed online at: https://birdsoftheworld.org/bow/home. Bradley, D.R., Ammerman, L.K., Baker, R.J., Bradley, L.C., Cook, J.A., Dowler, R.C., Jones, C., Schmidly, D.J., Stangl Jr., F.B., Van Den Bussche, R.A., and B. Würsig. 2014. Revised Checklist of North American Mammals North of Mexico, 2014. Occasional Papers of the Museum of Texas Tech University. 327. 1-27. California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW). 2012. Staff Report on Burrowing Owl Mitigation. March 7, 2012. CDFW. 2021. RareFind 5, California Natural Diversity Data Base, California. Data base report on threatened, endangered, rare or otherwise sensitive species and communities for the USGS Redondo Beach, San Pedro, and Torrance, California 7.5-minute quadrangles. CDFW. 2022a. Special Animals List. California Department of Fish and Wildlife. Sacramento, CA. CDFW. 2022b. Special Vascular Plants, Bryophytes, and Lichens List. Quarterly publication. 140 pp. CDFW. 2022c. State and Federally Listed Endangered and Threatened Animals of California. California Department of Fish and Wildlife. Sacramento, CA. CDFW. 2022d. State and Federally Listed Endangered, Threatened, and Rare Plants of California. California Department of Fish and Wildlife. Sacramento, CA. California Native Plant Society (CNPS). 2021. Inventory of Rare and Endangered Plants of California (online edition, v8-03 0.39). Accessed online at: http://www.rareplants.cnps.org/. Chesser, R. T., S. M. Billerman, K. J. Burns, C. Cicero, J. L. Dunn, A. W. Kratter, I. J. Lovette, N. A. Mason, P. C. Rasmussen, J. V. Remsen, Jr., D. F. Stotz, and K. Winker. 2020. Check-list of North American Birds (online). American Ornithological Society. Accessed online at: http://checklist.aou.org/taxa. City of Fontana. 2017. Fontana Forward: General Plan Update 2015-2035. Accessed online at: https://www.fontana.org/DocumentCenter/View/28271/Complete-Document---Approved- General-Plan-Documents-11-13-2018. County of San Bernardino. 2020. Countywide Plan, Natural Resources Element. Accessed online at: https://countywideplan.com/policy-plan/natural-resources/. Crother, B. I. (ed.). 2017. Scientific and Standard English Names of Amphibians and Reptiles of North America North of Mexico, with Comments Regarding Confidence in Our Understanding pp. 1–102. SSAR Herpetological Circular 43. Dechant, J.A., M.L. Sondreal, D.H. Johnson, L.D. Igl, C.M. Goldade, P.A. Rabie, and B.R. Euliss. 1999 (revised 2002). Effects of management practices on grassland birds: Burrowing Owl. Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center. Jamestown, ND. Attachment E – References Alta Fontana Mixed Use Project E-2 Biological Resources Assessment Report eBird. 2021. eBird: An online database of bird distribution and abundance [web application]. eBird, Cornell Lab of Ornithology, Ithaca, New York. Accessed online at: http://www.ebird.org. Google, Inc. 2021. Google Earth Pro Historical Aerial Imagery Version 7.3.8.8248. Build date 07/16/2021. Aerial Imagery dated 1985 through 2021. Harvey, M. J., J. S. Altenbach, and T.L. Best. 2011. Bats of the United States and Canada. John Hopkins University Press, Baltimore, Maryland. Haug, E. A. and Didiuk, B. A. 1993. Use of Recorded Calls to Detect Burrowing Owls. Journal of Field Ornithology 64(2): 188-194. Holland, R. 1986. Preliminary Descriptions of the Terrestrial Natural Communities of California. California Department of Fish and Game, Sacramento. Jepson Flora Project (eds.). 2021. Jepson eFlora. Accessed online at: http://ucjeps.berkeley.edu/eflora/. Reid, F.A. 2006. A Field Guide to Mammals of North America, Fourth Edition. Houghton Mifflin Company, New York, New York. Sawyer, J.O., T. Keeler-Wolf, and J. Evens. 2009. A Manual of California Vegetation (Second Edition). California Native Plant Society, Sacramento, California, USA. Sibley, D.A. 2014. The Sibley Guide to Birds, Second Edition. Alfred A. Knopf, Inc., New York, New York. Stebbins, R.C. 2003. A Field Guide to Western Reptiles and Amphibians, Third Edition. Houghton Mifflin Company, New York, New York. U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). 2021. Custom Soil Resource Report for San Bernardino County, California, Southwestern Part. Accessed online at: http://websoilsurvey.nrcs.usda.gov/app/. USFWS. 2021a. IPaC Information for Planning and Consultation. Accessed online at: https://ecos.fws.gov/ipac/. USFWS. 2021b. ECOS Environmental Conservation Online System: Threatened and Endangered Species Active Critical Habitat Report. Accessed online at: https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/report/table/critical- habitat.html. USGS. 1967. Fontana, California 7.5-Minute Topographic Quadrangle Map. Revised 1985. Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation (Xerces). 2021. Western Monarch Count: Find an Overwintering Site. Accessed online at: https://www.westernmonarchcount.org/find-an- overwintering-site-near-you/. Alta Fontana Mixed Use Project 12 Biological Resources Assessment Report If the presence of bats within the project is confirmed, avoidance and minimization measures, including the designation of buffers based upon what bat species are found, and phased removal of trees, shall be developed and submitted to CDFW for review and approval. If the site supports maternity roosts, the Applicant shall avoid disturbing those areas during the breeding season. If the site supports a maternity roost(s) or special-status species, the Applicant shall contact CDFW and conduct an impact assessment prior to commencing project activities to assist in the development of minimization and mitigation measures. Applicant shall compensate for impacts and losses to maternity roosts and/or special- status bat habitat through a mitigation strategy approved by CDFW. AMM BIO-3: Although no burrowing owls were observed during the field survey, a pre-construction burrowing owl clearance survey shall be conducted by a qualified biologist to ensure that burrowing owls remain absent from the project site and impacts to burrowing owls do not occur. The pre-construction clearance surveys shall be conducted no more than 30 days prior to any vegetation removal or ground disturbing activities and in accordance with the CDFW Staff Report on Burrowing Owl Mitigation (CDFW 2012). Documentation of surveys and findings shall be submitted to the City of Fontana for review and file. If no burrowing owls or occupied burrows are detected, construction may begin. If an occupied burrow is found within the development footprint during pre-construction clearance surveys, a burrowing owl exclusion and mitigation plan would need to be prepared and submitted to CDFW for approval prior to initiating project activities. Please do not hesitate to contact me at (949) 533-0918 or ryan.winkleman@mbakerintl.com, Tom Millington at (949) 246-7004 or tommillington@mbakerintl.com, or Lauren Mapes at (714) 519-9922 or lauren.mapes@mbakerintl.com should you have any questions or require further information. Sincerely, Ryan Winkleman Tom Millington Lauren Mapes Senior Biologist Senior Biologist Biologist Attachments: A. Project Figures B. Site Photographs C. Plant and Wildlife Species Observed List D. Potentially Occurring Special-Status Biological Resources E. References