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HomeMy WebLinkAboutAppendix C - General Biological Assessment & Focused CCG ReportGENERAL BIOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT FOR ASSESSOR’S PARCEL NUMBER 0237-411-27 CITY OF FONTANA SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY, CALIFORNIA Prepared for: Conifer Court LLC 500 Newport Center Drive, Suite 570 Newport Beach, CA 92660 Prepared By: Hernandez Environmental Services 17037 Lakeshore Drive Lake Elsinore, California 92530 (909) 772-9009 OCTOBER 2023 APN 0237-411 -27 General Biological Assessment P age | i October 2023 Hernandez Environmental Services 17037 Lakeshore Drive Lake Elsinore, CA 92530 TABLE OF CONTENTS 1.0 Introduction .................................................................................................................................. 1 1.1 Project Site Location .............................................................................................................. 1 1.2 Project Description ................................................................................................................ 1 2.0 Methodology.................................................................................................................................... 1 2.1 Literature Review .................................................................................................................. 1 2.2 Field Survey ........................................................................................................................... 1 3.0 Existing Conditions and Results ...................................................................................................... 2 3.1 Environmental Setting ........................................................................................................... 2 3.2 Soils ........................................................................................................................................ 2 3.3 Plant and Habitat Communities ............................................................................................. 2 3.4 Wildlife .................................................................................................................................. 3 3.5 Regional Connectivity/Wildlife Movement ........................................................................... 3 4.0 Sensitive Biological Resources .................................................................................................... 4 4.1 Threatened and Endangered Species ..................................................................................... 4 4.1.1 Threatened and Endangered Plants ........................................................................ 4 4.1.3 Threatened and Endangered Wildlife ..................................................................... 7 4.2 Critical Habitat ..................................................................................................................... 11 4.3 Nesting Birds ....................................................................................................................... 11 4.4 Other City, County, Regional, State, or Federal Conservation Plans .................................. 11 4.5 Jurisdictional Waters ............................................................................................................ 11 5.0 Impacts ....................................................................................................................................... 11 5.2 Impacts to Sensitive Species ................................................................................................ 11 5.2.1 Sensitive Plant Species ......................................................................................... 12 5.2.2 Sensitive Wildlife Species .................................................................................... 12 5.3 Impacts to Critical Habitats ................................................................................................. 12 5.4 Impacts to Migratory Birds ................................................................................................. 12 5.5 Impacts to Wildlife Movement Corridors ............................................................................ 12 5.6 Impacts to Jurisdictional Waters .......................................................................................... 13 6.0 Recommendations ...................................................................................................................... 13 7.0 Certification ............................................................................................................................... 14 8.0 References .................................................................................................................................. 15 APN 0237-411 -27 General Biological Assessment P age | ii October 2023 Hernandez Environmental Services 17037 Lakeshore Drive Lake Elsinore, CA 92530 FIGURES Figure 1 – Location Map Figure 2 – Vicinity Map Figure 3 – Project Plans Figure 4 – Habitat Map Figure 5 – Impact Map APPENDICES Appendix A – Observed Species List Appendix B – Potential Species List Appendix C – Site Photographs Appendix D – Soils Map Appendix E – Coastal California Gnatcatcher Survey Report APN 0237-411-27 General Biological Assessment Page | 1 October 2023 Hernandez Environmental Services 17037 Lakeshore Drive Lake Elsinore, CA 92530 1.0 Introduction Hernandez Environmental Services (HES) was retained by Conifer Court LLC to prepare a General Biological Assessment (GBA) for the Southridge Project located in the City of Fontana, San Bernardino County, California. 1.1 Project Site Location The approximate 13.16-acre project site is located east of Live Oak Avenue, northwest of Long View Drive, and south of Village Drive in the City of Fontana, San Bernardino County, California (Figures 1 and 2, Location Map and Vicinity Map). The project site consists of Assessor ’s Parcel Number (APN) 0237-411 -27. Specifically, the project site is located within Section 35, Township 1 South, Range 6 West of the Fontana United States Geological Survey (USGS) 7.5-minute topographic quadrangles. Project center point latitude and longitude are 34° 02' 35.9857" North, 117° 28' 43.6697" West. 1.2 Proje ct Description The proposed project consists of the construction of 115 RV Storage parking spaces and 513 self- storage units. The proposed project also includes a trail and water quality basin (Figure 3, Project Plans). 2.0 Methodology 2.1 Literature Review HES conducted a literature review and reviewed aerial photographs and topographic maps of the project location and surrounding areas. The following USGS quads were used to query the California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB): Fontana, Devore, San Bernardino North, San Bernardino South, Riverside East, Riverside West, Coro na North, Guasti, and Cucamonga Peak. The United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) County Endangered Species Lists, and California Native Plant Society's (CNPS) Rare Plant Inventory were reviewed to obtain species information for the project area. 2.2 Field Survey On October 4, 2023, HES conducted a field survey of the approximate 13.16-acre project site. The ambient temperature at during the survey was 88° Fahrenheit, sunny, with winds ranging from 0 to 8 miles per hour to the southwest. The purpose of the field surveys was to document the existing habitat conditions, obtain plant and animal species information, view the surrounding uses, assess the potential for state and federal waters, assess the potential for wildlife APN 0237-411-27 General Biological Assessment Page | 2 October 2023 Hernandez Environmental Services 17037 Lakeshore Drive Lake Elsinore, CA 92530 movement corridors, and assess for the presence of critical habitat constituent elements. Focused surveys for the coastal California gnatcatcher were completed from April 9 to May 14, 2023. The entire 13.16-acre project site was surveyed. Linear transects approximately 50 feet apart were walked for 100 percent coverage. All species observed were recorded and Global Positioning System (GPS) way points were taken to delineate specific habitat types, species locations, state or federal waters, or any other information that would be useful for the assessment of the project site. Areas that were too difficult to access via foot due to topography were surveyed using binoculars. The complete list of species observed is included in Appendix A, Observed Species List. Representative sits images were taken and are included in Appendix C, Site Photographs. 3.0 Existing Conditions and Results 3.1 Environmental Setting The project site consists of disturbed vacant land. The site contains multiple hills, and the southern portion of the site is the bottom of a steep slope with some native scrub habitat. Onsite elevations range from 938 feet above mean sea level (AMSL) to 975 feet AMSL. The property is surrounded by single-family residences and commercial buildings to the north, vacant land to the west, Southridge Park to the southwest, vacant land and a large hill side with disturbed rock faces to the south, and a cement lined channel to the east. 3.2 Soils Three soil classes are identified to occur on the project site by the USDA Web Soil Survey (Appendix D, Soils Map). Soil at the project site is classified as follows: •Cieneba sandy loam (CnD), 9 to 15 percent slopes; •Cieneba-Rock outcrop complex (Cr), 30 to 50 percent slopes, MLRA 20; and, •Tujunga loamy sand (TuB), 0 to 5 percent slopes. 3.3 Plant and Habitat Communities The 13.16-acre project site contains 0.43 acre of disturbed Riversidean sage scrub habitat, 11.03 acres of ruderal habitat, and 1.70 acres of disturbed habitat (Figure 5, Habitat Map). Following is a description of each habitat type: Disturbed Riversidean Sage Scrub Approximately 0.43 acre of disturbed Riversidean sage scrub habitat occurs within the project site. This habitat type is characterized as a shrub canopy with California sagebrush and shortpod APN 0237-411-27 General Biological Assessment Page | 3 October 2023 Hernandez Environmental Services 17037 Lakeshore Drive Lake Elsinore, CA 92530 mustard (Hirschfeldia incana) as the dominant species. This habitat occurs on portions of the slope of the project site. This habitat type is typically found on dry or sandy well-drained soils. Other species found in this habitat include brittlebush (Encelia farinosa), California buckwheat (Erriogonum fasciculatum) and black sage (Salvia mellifera). Ruderal Approximately 11.03 acres of ruderal habitat occurs within the project site. This habitat is characterized by heavily disturbed land that contains sparse vegetation. The vegetation in this habitat is dominated by non-native species with scattered native plant species. The dominant species found in this habitat is shortpod mustard. Other species include sparse calabazilla (Cucurbita foetidissima) and brittle bush. Disturbed Approximately 1.70 acres of disturbed habitat occurs within the project site. This area is characterized by graded dirt paths, and areas with very little or non-native vegetation. The dominant plant species in these areas is shortpod mustard. The disturbed area does not provide sustainable habitat for species. 3.4 Wildlife General wildlife species documented on the project site or within the vicinity of the site include Common raven (Corvus corax) and American kestrel (Falco sparverius). 3.5 Regional Connectivity/Wildlife Movement Wildlife movement corridors can be local or regional in scale; their functions may vary temporally and spatially based on conditions and species present. Wildlife corridors represent areas where wildlife movement is concentrated due to natural or anthropogenic constraints. Local corridors provide access to resources such as food, water, and shelter. Animals use these corridors, which are often hillsides or riparian areas, to move between different habitats. Regional corridors provide these functions and link two or more large habitat areas. They provide avenues for wildlife dispersal, migration, and contact between otherwise distinct populations. The project site is not located within a designated wildlife corridor or linkage. The project area was evaluated for its function as a wildlife corridor that species use to move between wildlife habitat zones. The project site contains a portion of a hillside consisting of vacant land characterized by disturbed Riversidean sage scrub that is bordered by vacant land to the south. The project site is bordered by urban development to the north, east, and west, preventing the site from being used as a regional corridor. The project site does not have potential to function as a local corridor for wildlife. APN 0237-411-27 General Biological Assessment Page | 4 October 2023 Hernandez Environmental Services 17037 Lakeshore Drive Lake Elsinore, CA 92530 4.0 Sensitive Biological Resources 4.1 Threatened and Endangered Species A total of 55 sensitive species of plants, 9 sensitive habitats and 59 sensitive species of animals has the potential to occur on or within the vicinity of the project location. These include those species listed or candidates for listing by the USFWS, California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) and CNPS. All habitats utilized by these species were evaluated during the site visit and a determination has been made for the presence or probability of presence in this report. No sensitive habitats were found to occur on site. This section will address those species listed as Candidate, Rare, Threatened, or Endangered under the state and federal Endangered Species laws or directed to be evaluated under other state, county, or municipal regulations. Other special status species will be reported in Appendix B, Potential Species List. 4.1.1 Threatened and Endangered Plants A total of sixteen plant species are listed as state and/or federal Threatened, Endangered, Candidate, or 1B.1 listed plants on the CNPS Rare Plant Inventory. Other sensitive species which have a potential to occur on the project site will also be discussed in this section. The following are descriptions of these species: Chaparral sand-verbena Chaparral sand-verbena (Abronia villosa var. aurita) is ranked 1B.1 in the CNPS Rare Plant Inventory. It is found in sandy areas of chaparral, coastal scrub, and desert dunes habitats. No suitable soil or habitat is present on the project site. This species is not present. San Diego ambrosia San Diego ambrosia (Ambrosia pumila) is listed as federally Endangered and ranked 1B.1 in the CNPS Rare Plant Inventory. Its habitat includes wetlands in chaparral, coastal sage scrub, valley and foothill grassland. It is commonly found in sandy loam or clay soil and sometimes in alkaline soils. This species persists where disturbance has been superficial. It is also sometimes found on margins or near vernal pools. No suitable habitat for this species is present on the project site. This species is not present. Marsh sandwort Marsh sandwort (Arenaria paludicola) is a federally and state listed Endangered Species and is ranked 1B.1 in the CNPS rare plant inventory. It is found in freshwater marsh, wetland, and marsh and swamp habitats. No suitable habitat for this species is present on the project site. This species is not present. Horn’s milk-vetch APN 0237-411-27 General Biological Assessment Page | 5 October 2023 Hernandez Environmental Services 17037 Lakeshore Drive Lake Elsinore, CA 92530 Horn’s milk-vetch (Astragalus hornii var. hornii) is ranked 1B.1 in the CNPS Rare Plant Inventory. It is typically found in alkali playa, meadow, seep, and wetland habitats. No suitable habitat for this species is present on the project site. This species is not present. Nevin’s barberry Nevin’s barberry (Berberis nevinii) is a federally and state listed Endangered Species and is ranked 1B.1 in the CNPS Rare Plant Inventory. It is typically found on steep, north facing slopes or in low grade sandy washes. Its habitat includes chaparral, cismontane woodland, coastal scrub, and riparian scrub. This species was not found during general biological surveys performed on site. This species is associated with riparian areas. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Thread-leaved brodiaea The thread-leaved brodiaea (Brodiaea filifolia) is a federally Threatened, state Endangered and a CNPS 1B.1 listed plant. This species is usually associated with annual grassland and vernal pools and is often surrounded by shrubland habitats. Its habitats include chaparral, cismontane woodlands, coastal sage scrub, valley and foothill grasslands, vernal pools and wetland. No suitable habitat for this species is present on the project site. This species is not present. Smooth tarplant Smooth tarplant (Centromadia pungens ssp. laevis) is ranked 1B.1 in the CNPS Rare Plant Inventory. Its habitat includes alkali playa, chenopod scrub, meadows and seeps, riparian woodlands, wetlands, and valley and foothill grasslands. It is commonly found in alkali meadow, alkali scrub, and disturbed habitat. No suitable habitat for this species is present on the project site. This species is not present. Salt marsh bird’s-beak Salt marsh bird’s beak (Chloropyron maritimum ssp. maritimum) is a federally and state listed Endangered Species and is ranked 1B.2 in the CNPS Rare Plant Inventory. This species is limited to the higher zones of salt marsh habitat at elevations of less than ten meters. Its habitat includes coastal dunes, marsh and swamp, salt marsh, and wetland. No suitable habitat for this species is present on the project site. This species is not present. Parry’s spineflower Parry’s spineflower (Chorizanthe parryi var. parryi) is ranked 1B.1 in the CNPS Rare Plant Inventory. The species occurs in dry, sandy soils on dry slopes and flats, sometimes at the interface of two vegetation types, such as chaparral and oak woodland. Its habitat includes coastal scrub, chaparral, cismontane woodland, valley and foothill grassland. The project site is heavily disturbed with small amounts of disturbed Riversidean scrub on the slope on site. The site does not provide suitable habitat for this species. This species is not present. This species is APN 0237-411-27 General Biological Assessment Page | 6 October 2023 Hernandez Environmental Services 17037 Lakeshore Drive Lake Elsinore, CA 92530 not present. Slender-horned spineflower Slender-horned spineflower (Dodecahema leptoceras) is a federally and state listed Endangered Species and is ranked 1B.1 in the CNPS Rare Plant Inventory. This species is typically found near flood deposited terraces and washes. Its habitat includes chaparral, cismontane woodland, and coastal scrub (alluvial fan sage scrub). No suitable habitat for this species is present on the project site. This species is not present. Santa Ana River woollystar Santa Ana River woollystar (Eriastrum densifolium ssp. sanctorum) is a federally and state listed Endangered Species and is ranked 1B.1 in the CNPS Rare Plant Inventory. It is typically found in sandy soils on river floodplains or terraced fluvial deposits. Its habitat includes chaparral and coastal scrub. No suitable habitat for this species is present on the project site. This species is not present. Mesa horkelia Mesa horkelia (Horkelia cuneate var. puberula) is ranked 1B.1 in the CNPS Rare Plant Inventory. It is typically found in sandy or gravelly sites. Its habitat includes chaparral, cismontane woodland, and coastal scrub. The project site is heavily disturbed with small amounts of disturbed Riversidean scrub on the slope on site. The site does not provide suitable habitat for this species. This species is not present. This species is not present. Coulter ’s goldfields Coulter’s goldfields (Lasthenia glabrata ssp.coulteri) is ranked 1B.1 in the CNPS Rare Plant Inventory. Its habitat includes alkali playas, marsh, swamp, salt marsh, vernal pool, and wetland. It is usually found on alkaline soils in playas, sinks, and grasslands. No suitable habitat for this species is present on the project site. This species is not present. Jokerst’s monardella Jokerst’s monardella (Monardella australis ssp. jokerstii) is ranked 1B.1 in the CNPS Rare Plant Inventory. It is found on steep scree or talus slopes between breccia. Its habitat includes chaparral, and lower montane coniferous forest. No suitable habitat for this species is present on the project site. This species is not present. Gambel’s water cress Gambel’s water cress (Nasturtium gambelii) is federally listed Endangered Species, a state listed Threatened Species, and is ranked 1B.1 in the CNPS Rare Plant Inventory. It is found in freshwater and brackish marshes at the margins of lakes and along streams, in or just above the water level. Its habitat includes brackish marsh, freshwater marsh, marsh and swamp, and APN 0237-411-27 General Biological Assessment Page | 7 October 2023 Hernandez Environmental Services 17037 Lakeshore Drive Lake Elsinore, CA 92530 wetland. No suitable habitat for this species is present on the project site. This species is not present. Brand’s star phacelia Brand’s star phacelia (Phacelia stellaris) is ranked 1B.1 in the CNPS Rare Plant Inventory. Its habitat includes coastal dunes and coastal scrub. The project site does not have dunes or suitable soil for this species. This species is not present. This species is not present. 4.1.3 Threatened and Endangered Wildlife A tot al of twenty-four wildlife species are listed as state and/or federally Threatened, Endangered, or Candidate species. Other sensitive species which have the potential to occur on the project site will also be discussed in this section. The following are descriptions of these species: Tricolored blackbird Tricolored blackbird (Agelaius tricolor) is a state listed Threatened Species and listed by the CDFW as a Species of Special Concern. Its habitat includes freshwater marsh, marsh and swamp, and wetland. This species is largely endemic to California and is most numerous in and around Central Valley. This species requires open accessible water, protected nesting substrate, and foraging area with insect prey within a few kilometers of the colony. No suitable habitat for this species is present on the project site. This species is not present. Southern California rufous-crowned sparrow Southern California rufous-crowned sparrow (Aimophila ruficeps canescens) is a CDFW Watch List Species. It frequents relatively steep, often rocky hillsides with grass and forb patches. This species is a resident in Southern California coastal sage scrub and sparse mixed chaparral. Suitable habitat is present on the project site. This species has the potential to be present. Bell’s sage sparrow Bell’s sage sparrow (Artemisiospiza belli belli) is a CDFW Watch List Species. This species is found in coastal scrub and chaparral habitats. This species typically nests on the ground beneath or in shrubs. Suitable habitat is present on the project site. This species has the potential to be present. Burrowing owl Burrowing owl (Athene cunicularia) is a CDFW Species of Special Concern. The species lives in dry, open grasslands, deserts, and scrublands characterized by low-growing vegetation. The burrowing owl is a subterranean nester and depends on burrowing mammals, such as ground squirrels. No suitable habitat is present on the project site. The site consists of a hill, whereas burrowing owl prefer flat, open land. This species is not present. APN 0237-411-27 General Biological Assessment Page | 8 October 2023 Hernandez Environmental Services 17037 Lakeshore Drive Lake Elsinore, CA 92530 Swainson’s hawk Swainson’s hawk (Buteo swainsoni) is a state listed Threatened Species. This species favors open grasslands for foraging but also occurs in agricultural settings. It relies on scattered stands of trees near agricultural fields and grasslands for nesting sites. Its habitats include great basin grassland, riparian forest, riparian woodland, and valley and foothill grassland. No suitable habitat for this species is present on the project site. This species is not present. Santa Ana sucker Santa Ana sucker (Catostomus santaanae) is a federally listed Threatened Species. Its habitat includes aquatic and south coast flowing waters. This species prefers sand-rubble-boulder bottoms, cool and clear water, and algae. It is endemic to Los Angeles Basin south coastal streams. No suitable habitat for this species is present on the project site. This species is not present. Southern rubber boa Southern-rubber boa (Charina umbratical) is a state listed Threatened Species. Its habitat includes meadow and seep, riparian forest, riparian woodland, upper montane coniferous forest, and wetland. This species is typically found near streams or wet meadows, and requires loose, moist soil for burrowing. It seeks cover in rotting logs, rock outcrops, and under surface litter. It is known to be found in the San Bernardino and San Jacinto mountains and has been reported to be found in other areas, but further research is required. No suitable habitat for this species is present on the project site. This species is not present. Western yellow-billed cuckoo Western yellow-billed cuckoo (Coccyzus americanus occidentalis) is a federally listed Threatened and state listed Endangered Species. This species typically nests in riparian jungles of willows, often mixed with cottonwoods, with a lower story of blackberry, nettles, or wild grape. It is found in riparian forest habitat. No suitable habitat for this species is present on the project site. This species is not present. San Bernardino kangaroo rat San Bernardino kangaroo rat (Dipodomys merriami parvus) is a federally listed Endangered Species, a state listed Candidate Endangered Species, and a CDFW Species of Special Concern. It is found in coastal scrub habitat. This species is found in alluvial scrub vegetation on sandy loam substrates, characteristic of alluvial fans and flood plains. It needs early to intermediate seral stages. No suitable habitat for this species is present on the project site. This species is not present. Stephens’ kangaroo rat APN 0237-411-27 General Biological Assessment Page | 9 October 2023 Hernandez Environmental Services 17037 Lakeshore Drive Lake Elsinore, CA 92530 Stephens’ kangaroo rat (Dipodomys stephensi) is a federally listed Threatened and state listed Threatened Species. This species is found in coastal sage scrub with sparse vegetation cover, and in valley and foothill grasslands. This species prefers buckwheat, chamise, brome grass, and filaree, and will burrow into firm soil. The Riversidean coastal scrub on site is disturbed, consisting of very little buckwheat and no chamise. No suitable habitat for this species is present on the project site. This species is not present. Southwestern willow flycatcher Southwestern willow flycatcher (Empidonax traillii extimus) is a federally and state listed Endangered Species. It is found in riparian woodland habitat in southern California. No suitable habitat for this species is present on the project site. This species is not present. Quino checkerspot butterfly Quino checkerspot butterfly (Euphydryas editha quino) is a federally listed Endangered Species. It is found in chaparral and coastal sage scrub. This species requires high densities of food plants, including Plantago erecta, P. insularis, and Orthocarpus purpurescens. No suitable habitat for this species is present on the project site. This species is not present. California black rail California black rail (Laterallus jamaicensis coturniculus) is a state listed Threatened Species and is a CDFW Fully Protected Species. It inhabits freshwater marshes, wet meadows, and shallow margins of saltwater marshes bordering larger bays. This species needs water depths of about one inch that do not fluctuate throughout the year and dense vegetation for nesting habitat. Its habitat includes brackish marsh, freshwater marsh, marsh and swamp, salt marsh, and wetland. No suitable habitat for this species is present on the project site. This species is not present. Steelhead – southern California DPS Steelhead-southern California DPS (Oncorhynchus mykiss irideus pop. 10) is a federally listed Endangered Species and state listed Candidate Endangered Species. This species is likely to have greater physiological tolerances to warmer water and more variable conditions. Its habitats include aquatic and south coast flowing waters. No suitable habitat for this species is present on the project site. This species is not present. Coast horned lizard Coast horned lizard (Phrynosoma blainvillii) is a CDFW Species of Special Concern. This species is found in coastal sage scrub, coastal bluff scrub, chaparral, cismontane woodland, desert wash, pinon and juniper woodlands, riparian scrub, riparian woodland, and valley and foothill grassland. This species thrives in open areas for sunning, bushes for cover, patches of loose soil for burial, and an abundant supply of ants and other insects. The project site is heavily APN 0237-411-27 General Biological Assessment Page | 10 October 2023 Hernandez Environmental Services 17037 Lakeshore Drive Lake Elsinore, CA 92530 disturbed and with small amounts of Riversidean sage scrub occurring on the slope. No suitable habitat is present on the project site. This species has the potential to be present. Coastal California gnatcatcher Coastal California gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica californica) is a federally listed Threatened Species and CDFW Species of Special Concern. This species is found in coastal bluff scrub and coastal scrub habitat. This species is typically found in low, coastal sage scrub in arid washes, on mesas and slopes. Suitable habitat for this species is present on the project site. Focused surveys for this species found it does not occupy the site. This species is not present. Southern mountain yellow-legged frog Southern mountain yellow-legged frog (Rana muscosa) is a federally and state listed Endangered Species and a CDFW Watc h List Species. It is found in aquatic habitat. This species is always encountered within a few feet of water. Tadpoles may require two to four years to complete their aquatic development. No suitable habitat for this species is present on the project site. This species is not present. Delhi Sands flower-loving fly Delhi Sands flower-loving fly (Rhaphiomidas terminates abdominalis) is a federally listed Endangered Species. It requires fine, sandy soils, often with wholly or partly consolidated dunes and sparse vegetation. It is found only in areas of the Delhi Sands formation in southwestern San Bernardino and northwestern Riverside counties. This species is found in interior dune habitat. No suitable habitat for this species is present on the project site. This species is not present. Riverside fairy shrimp Riverside fairy shrimp (Streptocephalus woottoni) is a federally listed Endangered Species. This species is found in coastal scrub, valley and foothill grassland, vernal pool, and wetland habitat. This species typically inhabits seasonally astatic pools filled by winter/spring rains. It is endemic to Western Riverside, Orange, and San Diego counties in areas of tectonic swales, or earth slump basins in grassland and coastal sage scrub habitat. No suitable habitat for this species is present on the project site. This species is not present. Least Bell’s vireo Least Bell’s vireo (Vireo bellii pusillus, LBV) is a state and federally Endangered Species. It inhabits species such as willow and Baccharis of riparian forests, scrub, and woodland. A LBV was heard just south of the project site in a small ephemeral stream offsite during the focused coastal California gnatcatcher surveys. The stream was upland vegetated and does not provide suitable nesting habitat. Furthermore, this offsite area will not be impacted by the proposed project. No suitable riparian habitat occurs on site for this species. Photos of the area where the APN 0237-411-27 General Biological Assessment Page | 11 October 2023 Hernandez Environmental Services 17037 Lakeshore Drive Lake Elsinore, CA 92530 LBV was recorded are included in Appendix C. This species is not present. 4.2 Critical Habitat The east side of the project site is within federal critical habitat for the coastal California gnatcatcher. Focused surveys for the coastal California gnatcatcher were completed from April 9 to May 14, 2023 (Appendix E, Coastal California Gnatcatcher Survey Report). Zero coastal California gnatcatchers were found on site during the surveys. 4.3 Nesting Birds Migratory non-game native bird species are protected under the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Additionally, Sections 3503, 3503.5, and 3513 of the California Fish and Game Code prohibit take of all birds and their active nests. The study area has shrubs that can be used by nesting songbirds during the nesting bird season of February 1 to September 15. 4.4 Other City, County, Regional, State, or Federal Conservation Plans The proposed project would not be anticipated to conflict with the provisions of an adopted Habitat Conservation Plan, Natural Community Conservation Plan, or other approved local, regional, or state habitat conservation plan. 4.5 Jurisdictional Waters The project area does not contain any streams or drainages or riparian habitat. There are no CDFW, United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), or Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB) jurisdictional waters within the project boundaries. Further, the project area does not contain any wetlands or vernal pools. 5.0 Impacts 5.1 Impacts to Habitats The development of the proposed project will impact approximately 9.35 acres of the project site and 0.22 acre of offsite areas. The proposed onsite impacts include approximately 1.47 acres of disturbed habitat, 7.58 acres of ruderal habitat, and 0.30 acres of disturbed Riversidean sage scrub on site. The proposed offsite impacts include approximately 0.19 acre of disturbed Riversidean sage scrub habitat and 0.03 acre of ruderal habitat (Figure 6, Impact Map). 5.2 Impacts to Sensitive Species The following species have the potential to occur on the project site and may be impacted by development of the site. Implementation of the measures identified in the Recommendations APN 0237-411-27 General Biological Assessment Page | 12 October 2023 Hernandez Environmental Services 17037 Lakeshore Drive Lake Elsinore, CA 92530 section (Section 6.0) of this report will ensure that potential impacts to these species are less than significant. 5.2.1 Sensitive Plant Species No sensitive plant species are expected to be impacted by the proposed project. 5.2.2 Sensitive Wildlife Species Southern California rufous-crowned sparrow Southern California rufous-crowned sparrow is a CDFW Watch List Species. The project site contains potentially suitable habitat for this species within the brittlebush dominant coastal sage scrub habitat. Development of this habitat has the potential to result in impacts to this species. Implementation of the measures identified in the Recommendations section (Section 6.0) of this report will ensure that potential impacts to this species are less than significant. Bell’s sage sparrow Bell’s sage sparrow is a CDFW Watch List Species. The project site contains potentially suitable habitat for this species within the brittlebush dominant coastal sage scrub habitat. Development of this habitat has the potential to result in impacts to this species. Implementation of the measures identified in the Recommendations section (Section 6.0) of this report will ensure that potential impacts to this species are less than significant. 5.3 Impacts to Critical Habitats The project site is within federal critical habitat for the coastal California gnatcatcher. Impacts to this habitat are expected. Focused surveys completed for this species found zero coastal California gnatcatcher within the project site boundary. The project does not have to mitigate for critical habitat due to the absence of a federal nexus (i.e. federal drainage or federal funding). 5.4 Impacts to Migratory Birds Migratory nongame native bird species are protected under the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Additionally, Sections 3503, 3503.5 and 3513 of the California Fish and Game Code prohibit take of all birds and their active nests. If the project will remove vegetation between February 1 and September 15, the project will have a potential to impact nesting birds. Implementation of the measures identified in the Recommendations section (Section 6.0) of this report will ensure that potential impacts to nesting birds are less than significant. 5.5 Impacts to Wildlife Movement Corridors No wildlife movement corridors were found to occur on site. No impacts to wildlife movement APN 0237-411-27 General Biological Assessment Page | 13 October 2023 Hernandez Environmental Services 17037 Lakeshore Drive Lake Elsinore, CA 92530 corridors are expected. 5.6 Impacts to Jurisdictional Waters The project area does not contain any state or federal jurisdictional drainages; therefore, no impacts will result from project implementation. 6.0 Recommendations Based upon the findings of this report, it is recommended that the measures be implemented as part of the project to avoid, minimize, or compensate for the anticipated impacts from project activities: Nesting Birds • It is recommended that vegetation removal be conducted during the non-nesting season for migratory birds to avoid direct impacts. The nesting season is between February 1 and September 15. • If vegetation removal will occur during the migratory bird nesting season, between February 1 and September 15, it is recommended that pre-construction nesting bird surveys be performed within three days prior to vegetation removal. • If active nests are found during nesting bird surveys, they shall be flagged, and a 200-foot buffer for songbirds and 500-foot buffer for raptors, shall be fenced around the nests. • A biological monitor shall visit the site once a week during ground disturbing activities to ensure all fencing is in place and no sensitive species are being impacted. Sensitive Species • The Southern California rufous-crowned sparrow and Bell’s sage sparrow are sensitive bird species that have the potential to be present on the site. If habitat suitable to support these species will be impacted, the measures identified to mitigate potential impacts to nesting birds would ensure that potential impacts to these species are less than significant. APN 0237-411-27 General Biological Assessment Page | 14 October 2023 Hernandez Environmental Services 17037 Lakeshore Drive Lake Elsinore, CA 92530 7.0 CERTIFICATI ON: “I hereby certify that the statements furnished above and in the attached exhibits present the data and information required for this biological evaluation, and that the facts, statements, and information pres ented are true and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief.” DATE 10/13/2023 SIGNED PROJECT MANAGER Fieldwork Performed By: Elizabeth Gonzalez SENIOR BIOLOGIST APN 0237-411-27 General Biological Assessment Page | 15 October 2023 Hernandez Environmental Services 17037 Lakeshore Drive Lake Elsinore, CA 92530 8.0 References American Ornithologists’ Union. 1983 (and supplements 1985, 1987, 1989, 1991, 1993, and 1995). The A.O.U. Check-List of North American Birds. 6th ed. Allen Press. Lawrence, Kansas. Burt, W.H., and Grossenheider, R.P., 1980. Peterson Field Guides, Mammals. Houghton Mifflin Company. New York , New York. California Native Plant Society, Rare Plant Program. 2023. Rare Plant Inventory (online edition, v9.5). Website https://www.rareplants.cnps.org. California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB). 2023. RareFind 5. California Department of Fish and Wildlife [VERSION 5.3.0] CDFG (California Department of Fish and Game). 2014 (October). Special Animals List . The Resources Agency of California, Department of Fish and Game, Natural Diversity Data Base. Sacramento, California. Department of the Army. 1986 (Nov 13). 33 CFR Parts 320 Through 330, Regulatory Programs of the Corps of Engineers; Final Rule. Federal Register 51(219):41206-41206. Department of the Army. 2000 (Mar 9). 33 CFR Parts 320 Through 330, Regulatory Programs of the Corps of Engineers; Final Rule. Federal Register 65(47):12818-12899. Department of the Army. 2002 (Jan 15). 33 CFR Parts 320 Through 330, Regulatory Programs of the Corps of Engineers; Final Rule. Federal Register 67(10):20020-2095. Hickman, J.C. 1993. The Jepson Manual: Higher Plants of California. University of California Press. Berkeley, California. Holland, R.F. 1986 (updated 1996). Preliminary Descriptions of the Terrestrial Natural Communities of California. Non-game Heritage Program. California Department of Fish and Game. Sacramento, California. Munz, P.A. 1974. A Flora of Southern California. University of California Press. Berkeley, California. Sawyer, J.O. and T. Keeler-Wolf . 1995. A Manual of California Vegetation. California Native APN 0237-411-27 General Biological Assessment Page | 16 October 2023 Hernandez Environmental Services 17037 Lakeshore Drive Lake Elsinore, CA 92530 Plant Society. Sacramento, California. Spencer, W.D ., P. Beier, K. Penrod, K. Wi nters, C. Paulman, H. Rustigian-Romsos, J. Strittholt, M. Parisi, and A. Pettler. 2 010. California Essential Habitat Connectivity Proje ct: A Strategy for Conserving a Connected California. Prepared for California Department of Tr ansportation, California Department of Fish and Game, and Federal Highways Administration. Stebbins, R.C. 2003. A Field Guide to Western Reptiles and Amphibians. 2nd ed. Houghton Mifflin Company. Boston, Massachusetts. Udvardy, M.D. 1994. National Audubon Society Field Guide to North American Birds. Alfred A. Knopf, Inc. New York, New York. USFWS (United States Fish and Wildlife Service). 1993 (Sep 30). Plant Taxa for Listing as Endangered or Threatened Species; Notice of Review. Federal Register 50 CFR Part 17. U.S. Department of the Interior. Washington, D.C. USFWS (United States Fish and Wildlife Service). 1994 (Nov 15). Endangered or Thre atened Wildlife and Plants; Animal Candidate Review for Listing as Endangered or Threatened Species. Federal Register 50 CFR Part 17. U.S. Department of the Interior. Washington, D.C. USFWS (United States Fish and Wildlife Service). 1997c (Oct. 31). Endangered or Threa tened Wildlife and Plants. Federal Register 50 CFR Part 17. U.S. Department of the Interior. Wa shington, D.C. U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) - Gap Analysis Project (GAP). 2018. San Gabriel Mountains Slender Salamander (Batrachoseps gabrieli) aSGSSx_CONUS_2001v1 Habitat Map: U.S. Geological Survey data release, https://doi.org/10.5066/F7X63K7C FIGURES Figure 1 City of Fontana, San Berardino County, California Southridge Project Location Map Legend Project Site N Fontana RV and Self Storage 34.04332935, -117.47879714 Figure 2 City of Fontana, San Berardino County, California Southridge Project Vicinity Map Legend Project Site N Fontana RV and Self Storage 34.04332935, -117.47879714 Figure 4 City of Fontana, San Berardino County, California Southridge Project Habitat Map Legend Project Site Riversidean Sage Scrub (0.43 Acre) Ruderal (11.03 Acres) Disturbed (1.70 Acres) N Figure 5 City of Fontana, San Berardino County, California Southridge Project Impact Map Legend Project Site Riversidean Sage Scrub (0.49 Acre) Ruderal (7.61 Acres) Disturbed (1.47 Acres) N APPENDIX A Observed Species List Plant List Scientific Name Common Name Artemisia californica California sagebrush Encelia farinosa Brittlebush Erriogonum fasciculatum California buckwheat Helianthus annuus Common sunflower Hirschfeldia incana Shortpod mustard Salvia mellifera Black sage Cucurbita foetidissima Calabazilla Wildlife List Scientific Name Common Name Corvus corax Common Raven Falco sparverius American kestrel Zenaida macroura Mourning dove APPENDIX B Scientific Name Common Name Taxon Group Federal List State List Rare Plant Rank Other Status Habitats General Habitat Micro Habitat Presence/ Absence Abronia villosa var. aurita chaparral sand- verbena Dicots None None 1B.1 BLM_S- Sensitive | SB_CalBG/RSAB G- California/Ranc ho Santa Ana Botanic Garden | USFS_S- Sensitive Chaparral | Coastal scrub | Desert dunes Chaparral, coastal scrub, desert dunes. Sandy areas. - 60-1570 m. The project site does not have suitable soils for this species. This species is not present. Ambrosia monogyra singlewhorl burrobrush Dicots None None 2B.2 SB_CRES-San Diego Zoo CRES Native Gene Seed Bank Chaparral | Sonoran desert scrub Chaparral, Sonoran desert scrub. Sandy soils. 5- 475 m. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Ambrosia pumila San Diego ambrosia Dicots Endangered None 1B.1 SB_CRES-San Diego Zoo CRES Native Gene Seed Bank Chaparral | Coastal scrub | Valley & foothill grassland Chaparral, coastal scrub, valley and foothill grassland. Sandy loam or clay soil; sometimes alkaline. In valleys; persists where disturbance has been superficial. Sometimes on margins or near vernal pools. 3-580 m. No alkaline soils occur on site. This species is not present. Scientific Name Common Name Taxon Group Federal List State List Rare Plant Rank Other Status Habitats General Habitat Micro Habitat Presence/ Absence Arctostaphylos glandulosa ssp. gabrielensis San Gabriel manzanita Dicots None None 1B.2 SB_CalBG/RSAB G- California/Ranc ho Santa Ana Botanic Garden | USFS_S- Sensitive Chaparral Chaparral. Rocky outcrops; can be dominant shrub where it occurs. 960- 2015 m. The project site is below the elevation range for this species. This species is not present. Arenaria paludicola marsh sandwort Dicots Endangered Endangered 1B.1 SB_SBBG-Santa Barbara Botanic Garden Freshwater marsh | Marsh & swamp | Wetland Marshes and swamps. Growing up through dense mats of Typha, Juncus, Scirpus, etc. in freshwater marsh. Sandy soil. 3-170 m. The project site is above the elevation range for this species. This species is not present. Astragalus hornii var. hornii Horn's milk- vetch Dicots None None 1B.1 BLM_S- Sensitive Alkali playa | Meadow & seep | Wetland Meadows and seeps, playas. Lake margins, alkaline sites. 75-350 m. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Scientific Name Common Name Taxon Group Federal List State List Rare Plant Rank Other Status Habitats General Habitat Micro Habitat Presence/ Absence Berberis nevinii Nevin's barberry Dicots Endangered Endangered 1B.1 SB_CalBG/RSAB G- California/Ranc ho Santa Ana Botanic Garden | SB_SBBG- Santa Barbara Botanic Garden Chaparral | Cismontane woodland | Coastal scrub | Riparian scrub Chaparral, cismontane woodland, coastal scrub, riparian scrub. On steep, N- facing slopes or in low grade sandy washes. 90- 1590 m. This species is associated with riparian areas. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Brodiaea filifolia thread-leaved brodiaea Monocots Threatened Endangered 1B.1 SB_CalBG/RSAB G- California/Ranc ho Santa Ana Botanic Garden | SB_CRES-San Diego Zoo CRES Native Gene Seed Bank Chaparral | Cismontane woodland | Coastal scrub | Valley & foothill grassland | Vernal pool | Wetland Chaparral (openings), cismontane woodland, coastal scrub, playas, valley and foothill grassland, vernal pools. Usually associated with annual grassland and vernal pools; often surrounded by shrubland habitats. Occurs in openings on clay soils. 15- 1030 m. No suitable habitat or soils occur on site. This species is not present. California Walnut Woodland California Walnut Woodland Woodland None None Cismontane woodland Not present. Scientific Name Common Name Taxon Group Federal List State List Rare Plant Rank Other Status Habitats General Habitat Micro Habitat Presence/ Absence Calochortus palmeri var. palmeri Palmer's mariposa-lily Monocots None None 1B.2 BLM_S- Sensitive | SB_CalBG/RSAB G- California/Ranc ho Santa Ana Botanic Garden | SB_SBBG- Santa Barbara Botanic Garden | USFS_S- Sensitive Chaparral | Lower montane coniferous forest | Meadow & seep Meadows and seeps, chaparral, lower montane coniferous forest. Vernally moist places in yellow-pine forest, chaparral. 195- 2530 m. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Calochortus plummerae Plummer's mariposa-lily Monocots None None 4.2 SB_CalBG/RSAB G- California/Ranc ho Santa Ana Botanic Garden Chaparral | Cismontane woodland | Coastal scrub | Lower montane coniferous forest | Valley & foothill grassland Coastal scrub, chaparral, valley and foothill grassland, cismontane woodland, lower montane coniferous forest. Occurs on rocky and sandy sites, usually of granitic or alluvial material. Can be very common after fire. 60-2500 m. The project site is heavily disturbed with small amounts of disturbed riversidean scrub on the slope on site. The site does not provide suitable habitat for this species. This species is not present. Scientific Name Common Name Taxon Group Federal List State List Rare Plant Rank Other Status Habitats General Habitat Micro Habitat Presence/ Absence Calochortus weedii var. intermedius intermediate mariposa-lily Monocots None None 1B.2 SB_CalBG/RSAB G- California/Ranc ho Santa Ana Botanic Garden | USFS_S- Sensitive Chaparral | Coastal scrub | Valley & foothill grassland Coastal scrub, chaparral, valley and foothill grassland. Dry, rocky calcareous slopes and rock outcrops. 60-1575 m. The slopes on site are derived from granite. This species is not present. Carex comosa bristly sedge Monocots None None 2B.1 IUCN_LC-Least Concern Coastal prairie | Freshwater marsh | Marsh & swamp | Valley & foothill grassland | Wetland Marshes and swamps, coastal prairie, valley and foothill grassland. Lake margins, wet places; site below sea level is on a Delta island. -5- 1010 m. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Castilleja lasiorhyncha San Bernardino Mountains owl's-clover Dicots None None 1B.2 SB_CalBG/RSAB G- California/Ranc ho Santa Ana Botanic Garden | USFS_S- Sensitive Chaparral | Meadow & seep | Pavement plain | Riparian woodland | Upper montane coniferous forest | Wetland Meadows and seeps, pebble plain, upper montane coniferous forest, chaparral, riparian woodland. Mesic to drying soils in open areas of stream and meadow margins or in vernally wet areas. 1140- 2320 m. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Scientific Name Common Name Taxon Group Federal List State List Rare Plant Rank Other Status Habitats General Habitat Micro Habitat Presence/ Absence Centromadia pungens ssp. laevis smooth tarplant Dicots None None 1B.1 SB_CalBG/RSAB G- California/Ranc ho Santa Ana Botanic Garden Alkali playa | Chenopod scrub | Meadow & seep | Riparian woodland | Valley & foothill grassland | Wetland Valley and foothill grassland, chenopod scrub, meadows and seeps, playas, riparian woodland. Alkali meadow, alkali scrub; also in disturbed places. 5-1170 m. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Chloropyron maritimum ssp. maritimum salt marsh bird's-beak Dicots Endangered Endangered 1B.2 BLM_S- Sensitive | SB_CalBG/RSAB G- California/Ranc ho Santa Ana Botanic Garden | SB_CRES-San Diego Zoo CRES Native Gene Seed Bank | SB_SBBG-Santa Barbara Botanic Garden Coastal dunes | Marsh & swamp | Salt marsh | Wetland Marshes and swamps, coastal dunes. Limited to the higher zones of salt marsh habitat. 0-10 m. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Scientific Name Common Name Taxon Group Federal List State List Rare Plant Rank Other Status Habitats General Habitat Micro Habitat Presence/ Absence Chorizanthe parryi var. parryi Parry's spineflower Dicots None None 1B.1 BLM_S- Sensitive | SB_CalBG/RSAB G- California/Ranc ho Santa Ana Botanic Garden | USFS_S- Sensitive Chaparral | Cismontane woodland | Coastal scrub | Valley & foothill grassland Coastal scrub, chaparral, cismontane woodland, valley and foothill grassland. Dry slopes and flats; sometimes at interface of 2 vegetation types, such as chaparral and oak woodland. Dry, sandy soils. 90-1220 m. The project site is heavily disturbed with small amounts of disturbed riversidean scrub on the slope on site. The site does not provide suitable habitat for this species. This species is not present. Chorizanthe xanti var. leucotheca white-bracted spineflower Dicots None None 1B.2 BLM_S- Sensitive | SB_CalBG/RSAB G- California/Ranc ho Santa Ana Botanic Garden | SB_USDA-US Dept of Agriculture | USFS_S- Sensitive Coastal scrub | Mojavean desert scrub | Pinon & juniper woodlands Mojavean desert scrub, pinyon and juniper woodland, coastal scrub (alluvial fans). Sandy or gravelly places. 365- 1830 m. The project site is below the elevation range for this species. This species is not present. Scientific Name Common Name Taxon Group Federal List State List Rare Plant Rank Other Status Habitats General Habitat Micro Habitat Presence/ Absence Cladium californicum California saw- grass Monocots None None 2B.2 SB_CalBG/RSAB G- California/Ranc ho Santa Ana Botanic Garden | USFS_S- Sensitive Alkali marsh | Freshwater marsh | Meadow & seep | Wetland Meadows and seeps, marshes and swamps (alkaline or freshwater). Freshwater or alkaline moist habitats. -40- 2150 m. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Claytonia peirsonii ssp. peirsonii Peirson's spring beauty Dicots None None 1B.2 SB_CalBG/RSAB G- California/Ranc ho Santa Ana Botanic Garden | USFS_S- Sensitive Subalpine coniferous forest | Upper montane coniferous forest Upper montane coniferous forest, subalpine coniferous forest. Granitic scree slopes, often with a sandy or fine soil component and granitic cobbles. 1510- 2745 m. The project site is below the elevation range for this species. This species is not present. Coastal and Valley Freshwater Marsh Coastal and Valley Freshwater Marsh Marsh None None Marsh & swamp | Wetland Not present. Cuscuta obtusiflora var. glandulosa Peruvian dodder Dicots None None 2B.2 Marsh & swamp | Wetland Marshes and swamps (freshwater). Freshwater marsh. 15-280 m. No suitable habitat is present on site. This species is not present. Scientific Name Common Name Taxon Group Federal List State List Rare Plant Rank Other Status Habitats General Habitat Micro Habitat Presence/ Absence Dodecahema leptoceras slender-horned spineflower Dicots Endangered Endangered 1B.1 SB_CalBG/RSAB G- California/Ranc ho Santa Ana Botanic Garden Chaparral | Cismontane woodland | Coastal scrub Chaparral, cismontane woodland, coastal scrub (alluvial fan sage scrub). Flood deposited terraces and washes; associates include Encelia, Dalea, Lepidospartu m, etc. Sandy soils. 200-765 m. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Dudleya multicaulis many- stemmed dudleya Dicots None None 1B.2 SB_CalBG/RSAB G- California/Ranc ho Santa Ana Botanic Garden | USFS_S- Sensitive Chaparral | Coastal scrub | Valley & foothill grassland Chaparral, coastal scrub, valley and foothill grassland. In heavy, often clayey soils or grassy slopes. 1-910 m. No suitable soils occur on site. This species is not present. Eriastrum densifolium ssp. sanctorum Santa Ana River woollystar Dicots Endangered Endangered 1B.1 SB_CalBG/RSAB G- California/Ranc ho Santa Ana Botanic Garden Chaparral | Coastal scrub Coastal scrub, chaparral. In sandy soils on river floodplains or terraced fluvial deposits. 180- 705 m. No floodplains or terraced fluvial deposits occur on site. This species is not present. Scientific Name Common Name Taxon Group Federal List State List Rare Plant Rank Other Status Habitats General Habitat Micro Habitat Presence/ Absence Eriogonum microthecum var. johnstonii Johnston's buckwheat Dicots None None 1B.3 SB_CalBG/RSAB G- California/Ranc ho Santa Ana Botanic Garden | USFS_S- Sensitive Limestone | Subalpine coniferous forest | Upper montane coniferous forest Subalpine coniferous forest, upper montane coniferous forest. Slopes and ridges on granite or limestone. 1795-2865 m. The project site is below the elevation range for this species. This species is not present. Fimbristylis thermalis hot springs fimbristylis Monocots None None 2B.2 SB_CalBG/RSAB G- California/Ranc ho Santa Ana Botanic Garden Meadow & seep | Wetland Meadows and seeps (alkaline). Near hot springs. 115- 1585 m. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Galium californicum ssp. primum Alvin Meadow bedstraw Dicots None None 1B.2 SB_CalBG/RSAB G- California/Ranc ho Santa Ana Botanic Garden | USFS_S- Sensitive Chaparral | Lower montane coniferous forest Chaparral, lower montane coniferous forest. Grows in shade of trees and shrubs at the lower edge of the pine belt, in pine forest- chaparral ecotone. Granitic, sandy soils. 1460- 1830 m. The project site is below the elevation range for this species. This species is not present. Scientific Name Common Name Taxon Group Federal List State List Rare Plant Rank Other Status Habitats General Habitat Micro Habitat Presence/ Absence Helianthus nuttallii ssp. parishii Los Angeles sunflower Dicots None None 1A Freshwater marsh | Marsh & swamp | Salt marsh | Wetland Marshes and swamps (coastal salt and freshwater). 35-1525 m. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Horkelia cuneata var. puberula mesa horkelia Dicots None None 1B.1 SB_CalBG/RSAB G- California/Ranc ho Santa Ana Botanic Garden | USFS_S- Sensitive Chaparral | Cismontane woodland | Coastal scrub Chaparral, cismontane woodland, coastal scrub. Sandy or gravelly sites. 15-1645 m. The project site is heavily disturbed with small amounts of disturbed riversidean scrub on the slope on site. The site does not provide suitable habitat for this species. This species is not present. Scientific Name Common Name Taxon Group Federal List State List Rare Plant Rank Other Status Habitats General Habitat Micro Habitat Presence/ Absence Imperata brevifolia California satintail Monocots None None 2B.1 SB_CalBG/RSAB G- California/Ranc ho Santa Ana Botanic Garden | SB_SBBG- Santa Barbara Botanic Garden | USFS_S- Sensitive Chaparral | Coastal scrub | Meadow & seep | Mojavean desert scrub | Riparian scrub | Wetland Coastal scrub, chaparral, riparian scrub, mojavean desert scrub, meadows and seeps (alkali), riparian scrub. Mesic sites, alkali seeps, riparian areas. 3-1495 m. No mesic or riparian areas occur on site. No alkali seeps occur on site. This species is not present. Lasthenia glabrata ssp. coulteri Coulter's goldfields Dicots None None 1B.1 BLM_S- Sensitive | SB_CalBG/RSAB G- California/Ranc ho Santa Ana Botanic Garden | SB_SBBG- Santa Barbara Botanic Garden Alkali playa | Marsh & swamp | Salt marsh | Vernal pool | Wetland Coastal salt marshes, playas, vernal pools. Usually found on alkaline soils in playas, sinks, and grasslands. 1- 1375 m. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Scientific Name Common Name Taxon Group Federal List State List Rare Plant Rank Other Status Habitats General Habitat Micro Habitat Presence/ Absence Lepidium virginicum var. robinsonii Robinson's pepper-grass Dicots None None 4.3 Chaparral | Coastal scrub Chaparral, coastal scrub. Dry soils, shrubland. 4- 1435 m. The project site is heavily disturbed with small amounts of disturbed riversidean scrub on the slope on site. The site does not provide suitable habitat for this species. This species is not present. Lilium parryi lemon lily Monocots None None 1B.2 SB_CalBG/RSAB G- California/Ranc ho Santa Ana Botanic Garden | SB_CRES-San Diego Zoo CRES Native Gene Seed Bank | USFS_S- Sensitive Lower montane coniferous forest | Meadow & seep | Riparian forest | Upper montane coniferous forest | Wetland Lower montane coniferous forest, meadows and seeps, riparian forest, upper montane coniferous forest. Wet, mountainous terrain; generally in forested areas; on shady edges of streams, in open boggy meadows and seeps. 625- 2930 m. The project site is below the elevation range for this species. This species is not present. Scientific Name Common Name Taxon Group Federal List State List Rare Plant Rank Other Status Habitats General Habitat Micro Habitat Presence/ Absence Linanthus concinnus San Gabriel linanthus Dicots None None 1B.2 SB_CalBG/RSAB G- California/Ranc ho Santa Ana Botanic Garden | USFS_S- Sensitive Chaparral | Lower montane coniferous forest | Upper montane coniferous forest Lower montane coniferous forest, upper montane coniferous forest, chaparral. Dry rocky slopes, often in Jeffrey pine/canyon oak forest. 1310-2560 m. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Lycium parishii Parish's desert- thorn Dicots None None 2B.3 SB_CRES-San Diego Zoo CRES Native Gene Seed Bank Coastal scrub | Sonoran desert scrub Coastal scrub, Sonoran desert scrub. -3-570 m. This shrub was not observed during the general survey. The project site is heavily disturbed with small amounts of disturbed riversidean scrub on the slope on site. The site does not provide suitable habitat for this species. This species is not present. Scientific Name Common Name Taxon Group Federal List State List Rare Plant Rank Other Status Habitats General Habitat Micro Habitat Presence/ Absence Malacothamn us parishii Parish's bush- mallow Dicots None None 1A Chaparral | Coastal scrub Chaparral, coastal sage scrub. In a wash. 305- 455 m. The project site is below the elevation range for this species. This species is not present. Monardella australis ssp. jokerstii Jokerst's monardella Dicots None None 1B.1 USFS_S- Sensitive Chaparral | Lower montane coniferous forest Lower montane coniferous forest, chapparal. Steep scree or talus slopes between breccia. Secondary alluvial benches along drainages and washes. 210- 1740 m. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Monardella pringlei Pringle's monardella Dicots None None 1A Coastal scrub Coastal scrub.Sandy hills. 300-400 m. The project site is below the elevation range for this species. This species is not present. Scientific Name Common Name Taxon Group Federal List State List Rare Plant Rank Other Status Habitats General Habitat Micro Habitat Presence/ Absence Muhlenbergia californica California muhly Monocots None None 4.3 SB_CalBG/RSAB G- California/Ranc ho Santa Ana Botanic Garden Chaparral | Coastal scrub | Lower montane coniferous forest | Meadow & seep Coastal scrub, chaparral, lower montane coniferous forest, meadows and seeps. Usually found near streams or seeps. 100- 2000 m. No streams or seeps occur on site. This species is not present. Muhlenbergia utilis aparejo grass Monocots None None 2B.2 Chaparral | Cismontane woodland | Coastal scrub | Marsh & swamp | Meadow & seep | Ultramafic Meadows and seeps, marshes and swamps, chaparral, coastal scrub, cismontane woodland. Sometimes alkaline, sometimes serpentinite. 25-2325 m. No alkaline or serpentinite soils occur on site. This species is not present. Nasturtium gambelii Gambel's water cress Dicots Endangered Threatened 1B.1 SB_CalBG/RSAB G- California/Ranc ho Santa Ana Botanic Garden | SB_SBBG- Santa Barbara Botanic Garden Brackish marsh | Freshwater marsh | Marsh & swamp | Wetland Marshes and swamps. Freshwater and brackish marshes at the margins of lakes and along streams, in or just above the water level. 5- 305 m. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Scientific Name Common Name Taxon Group Federal List State List Rare Plant Rank Other Status Habitats General Habitat Micro Habitat Presence/ Absence Navarretia prostrata prostrate vernal pool navarretia Dicots None None 1B.2 Coastal scrub | Meadow & seep | Valley & foothill grassland | Vernal pool | Wetland Coastal scrub, valley and foothill grassland, vernal pools, meadows and seeps. Alkaline soils in grassland, or in vernal pools. Mesic, alkaline sites. 3-1235 m. No alkaline soils or vernal pools occur on site. This species is not present. Opuntia basilaris var. brachyclada short-joint beavertail Dicots None None 1B.2 BLM_S- Sensitive | SB_CalBG/RSAB G- California/Ranc ho Santa Ana Botanic Garden | USFS_S- Sensitive Chaparral | Joshua tree woodland | Mojavean desert scrub | Pinon & juniper woodlands Chaparral, Joshua tree woodland, Mojavean desert scrub, pinyon and juniper woodland. Sandy soil or coarse, granitic loam. 425-2015 m. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Oreonana vestita woolly mountain- parsley Dicots None None 1B.3 BLM_S- Sensitive | SB_CalBG/RSAB G- California/Ranc ho Santa Ana Botanic Garden | USFS_S- Sensitive Lower montane coniferous forest | Subalpine coniferous forest | Upper montane coniferous forest Subalpine coniferous forest, upper montane coniferous forest, lower montane coniferous forest. High ridges; on scree, talus, or gravel. 800- 3370 m. The project site is below the elevation range for this species. This species is not present. Scientific Name Common Name Taxon Group Federal List State List Rare Plant Rank Other Status Habitats General Habitat Micro Habitat Presence/ Absence Phacelia stellaris Brand's star phacelia Dicots None None 1B.1 SB_CalBG/RSAB G- California/Ranc ho Santa Ana Botanic Garden Coastal dunes | Coastal scrub Coastal scrub, coastal dunes. Open areas. 3- 370 m. The project site does not have dunes or suitable soil for this species. This species is not present. Pseudognapha lium leucocephalu m white rabbit- tobacco Dicots None None 2B.2 Chaparral | Cismontane woodland | Coastal scrub | Riparian woodland Riparian woodland, cismontane woodland, coastal scrub, chaparral. Sandy, gravelly sites. 35-515 m. The project site is heavily disturbed with small amounts of disturbed riversidean scrub on the slope on site. The site does not provide suitable habitat for this species. This species is not present. Ribes divaricatum var. parishii Parish's gooseberry Dicots None None 1A Riparian woodland Riparian woodland. Salix swales in riparian habitats. 65- 300 m. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Scientific Name Common Name Taxon Group Federal List State List Rare Plant Rank Other Status Habitats General Habitat Micro Habitat Presence/ Absence Riversidian Alluvial Fan Sage Scrub Riversidian Alluvial Fan Sage Scrub Scrub None None Coastal scrub Not present. Sagittaria sanfordii Sanford's arrowhead Monocots None None 1B.2 BLM_S- Sensitive Marsh & swamp | Wetland Marshes and swamps. In standing or slow-moving freshwater ponds, marshes, and ditches. 0-605 m. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Schoenus nigricans black bog-rush Monocots None None 2B.2 IUCN_LC-Least Concern | USFS_S- Sensitive Marsh & swamp | Wetland Marshes and swamps. Often in alkaline marshes. 120- 1525 m. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Senecio aphanactis chaparral ragwort Dicots None None 2B.2 SB_CalBG/RSAB G- California/Ranc ho Santa Ana Botanic Garden | SB_CRES-San Diego Zoo CRES Native Gene Seed Bank Chaparral | Cismontane woodland | Coastal scrub Chaparral, cismontane woodland, coastal scrub. Drying alkaline flats. 20-1020 m. No alkaline soils occur onsite. This species is not present. Scientific Name Common Name Taxon Group Federal List State List Rare Plant Rank Other Status Habitats General Habitat Micro Habitat Presence/ Absence Sidalcea neomexicana salt spring checkerbloom Dicots None None 2B.2 USFS_S- Sensitive Alkali playa | Chaparral | Coastal scrub | Lower montane coniferous forest | Mojavean desert scrub | Wetland Playas, chaparral, coastal scrub, lower montane coniferous forest, Mojavean desert scrub. Alkali springs and marshes. 3-2380 m. No alkali springs or marshes occur on site. This species is not present. Southern California Arroyo Chub/Santa Ana Sucker Stream Southern California Arroyo Chub/Santa Ana Sucker Stream Inland Waters None None Not present. Southern Cottonwood Willow Riparian Forest Southern Cottonwood Willow Riparian Forest Riparian None None Riparian forest Not present. Southern Riparian Forest Southern Riparian Forest Riparian None None Riparian forest Not present. Southern Riparian Scrub Southern Riparian Scrub Riparian None None Riparian scrub Not present. Scientific Name Common Name Taxon Group Federal List State List Rare Plant Rank Other Status Habitats General Habitat Micro Habitat Presence/ Absence Southern Sycamore Alder Riparian Woodland Southern Sycamore Alder Riparian Woodland Riparian None None Riparian woodland Not present. Southern Willow Scrub Southern Willow Scrub Riparian None None Riparian scrub Not present. Sphenopholis obtusata prairie wedge grass Monocots None None 2B.2 Cismontane woodland | Meadow & seep | Wetland Cismontane woodland, meadows and seeps. Open moist sites, along rivers and springs, alkaline desert seeps. 15- 2625 m. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Streptanthus bernardinus Laguna Mountains jewelflower Dicots None None 4.3 SB_CalBG/RSAB G- California/Ranc ho Santa Ana Botanic Garden Chaparral | Lower montane coniferous forest | Upper montane coniferous forest Chaparral, lower montane coniferous forest. Clay or decomposed granite soils; sometimes in disturbed areas such as streamsides or roadcuts. 1440- 2500 m. The project site is below the elevation range for this species. This species is not present. Scientific Name Common Name Taxon Group Federal List State List Rare Plant Rank Other Status Habitats General Habitat Micro Habitat Presence/ Absence Streptanthus campestris southern jewelflower Dicots None None 1B.3 BLM_S- Sensitive | SB_CRES-San Diego Zoo CRES Native Gene Seed Bank | USFS_S- Sensitive Chaparral | Lower montane coniferous forest | Pinon & juniper woodlands Chaparral, lower montane coniferous forest, pinyon and juniper woodland. Open, rocky areas. 605- 2590 m. The project site is below the elevation range for this species. This species is not present. Symphyotrich um defoliatum San Bernardino aster Dicots None None 1B.2 SB_CalBG/RSAB G- California/Ranc ho Santa Ana Botanic Garden | SB_CRES-San Diego Zoo CRES Native Gene Seed Bank | USFS_S- Sensitive Cismontane woodland | Coastal scrub | Lower montane coniferous forest | Marsh & swamp | Meadow & seep | Valley & foothill grassland Meadows and seeps, cismontane woodland, coastal scrub, lower montane coniferous forest, marshes and swamps, valley and foothill grassland. Vernally mesic grassland or near ditches, streams and springs; disturbed areas. 3-2045 m. No mesic areas or stream features occur on site. This species is not present. Viola pinetorum ssp. grisea grey-leaved violet Dicots None None 1B.2 BLM_S- Sensitive | SB_CalBG/RSAB G- California/Ranc ho Santa Ana Botanic Garden Meadow & seep | Subalpine coniferous forest | Upper montane coniferous forest Subalpine coniferous forest, upper montane coniferous forest, meadows and seeps. Dry mountain peaks and slopes. 1580- 3700 m. The project site is below the elevation range for this species. This species is not present. Scientific Name Common Name Taxon Group Federal List State List Other Status Habitats General Habitat Micro Habitat Presence/ Absence Accipiter cooperii Cooper's hawk Birds None None CDFW_WL-Watch List | IUCN_LC- Least Concern Cismontane woodland | Riparian forest | Riparian woodland | Upper montane coniferous forest Woodland, chiefly of open, interrupted or marginal type. Nest sites mainly in riparian growths of deciduous trees, as in canyon bottoms on river flood-plains; also, live oaks. No suitable nesting habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Agelaius tricolor tricolored blackbird Birds None Threatened BLM_S-Sensitive | CDFW_SSC- Species of Special Concern | IUCN_EN- Endangered | USFWS_BCC-Birds of Conservation Concern Freshwater marsh | Marsh & swamp | Swamp | Wetland Highly colonial species, most numerous in Central Valley and vicinity. Largely endemic to California. Requires open water, protected nesting substrate, and foraging area with insect prey within a few km of the colony. No suitable nesting habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Aimophila ruficeps canescens southern California rufous- crowned sparrow Birds None None CDFW_WL-Watch List Chaparral | Coastal scrub Resident in Southern California coastal sage scrub and sparse mixed chaparral. Frequents relatively steep, often rocky hillsides with grass and forb patches. Suitable habitat occurs on site. This species has the potential to be present. Scientific Name Common Name Taxon Group Federal List State List Other Status Habitats General Habitat Micro Habitat Presence/ Absence Anniella stebbinsi Southern California legless lizard Reptiles None None CDFW_SSC- Species of Special Concern | USFS_S- Sensitive Broadleaved upland forest | Chaparral | Coastal dunes | Coastal scrub Generally south of the Transverse Range, extending to northwestern Baja California. Occurs in sandy or loose loamy soils under sparse vegetation. Disjunct populations in the Tehachapi and Piute Mountains in Kern County. Variety of habitats; generally in moist, loose soil. They prefer soils with a high moisture content. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Arizona elegans occidentalis California glossy snake Reptiles None None CDFW_SSC- Species of Special Concern Patchily distributed from the eastern portion of San Francisco Bay, southern San Joaquin Valley, and the Coast, Transverse, and Peninsular ranges, south to Baja California. Generalist reported from a range of scrub and grassland habitats, often with loose or sandy soils. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Scientific Name Common Name Taxon Group Federal List State List Other Status Habitats General Habitat Micro Habitat Presence/ Absence Artemisiospiza belli belli Bell's sparrow Birds None None CDFW_WL-Watch List Chaparral | Coastal scrub Nests in chaparral dominated by fairly dense stands of chamise. Found in coastal sage scrub in south of range. Nest located on the ground beneath a shrub or in a shrub 6- 18 inches above ground. Territories about 50 yds apart. Suitable habitat occurs on site. This species has the potential to be present. Aspidoscelis hyperythra orange-throated whiptail Reptiles None None CDFW_WL-Watch List | IUCN_LC- Least Concern | USFS_S-Sensitive Chaparral | Cismontane woodland | Coastal scrub Inhabits low- elevation coastal scrub, chaparral, and valley-foothill hardwood habitats. Prefers washes and other sandy areas with patches of brush and rocks. Perennial plants necessary for its major food: termites. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Aspidoscelis tigris stejnegeri coastal whiptail Reptiles None None CDFW_SSC- Species of Special Concern Found in deserts and semi-arid areas with sparse vegetation and open areas. Also found in woodland and riparian areas. Ground may be firm soil, sandy, or rocky. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Scientific Name Common Name Taxon Group Federal List State List Other Status Habitats General Habitat Micro Habitat Presence/ Absence Athene cunicularia burrowing owl Birds None None BLM_S-Sensitive | CDFW_SSC- Species of Special Concern | IUCN_LC-Least Concern | USFWS_BCC-Birds of Conservation Concern Coastal prairie | Coastal scrub | Great Basin grassland | Great Basin scrub | Mojavean desert scrub | Sonoran desert scrub | Valley & foothill grassland Open, dry annual or perennial grasslands, deserts, and scrublands characterized by low-growing vegetation. Subterranean nester, dependent upon burrowing mammals, most notably, the California ground squirrel. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Batrachoseps gabrieli San Gabriel slender salamander Amphibia ns None None IUCN_DD-Data Deficient | USFS_S-Sensitive Talus slope Known only from the San Gabriel Mtns. Found under rocks, wood, and fern fronds, and on soil at the base of talus slopes. Most active on the surface in winter and early spring. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Bombus crotchii Crotch bumble bee Insects None Candidate Endangered IUCN_EN- Endangered Coastal California east to the Sierra- Cascade crest and south into Mexico. Food plant genera include Antirrhinum, Phacelia, Clarkia, Dendromecon, Eschscholzia, and Eriogonum. The site does not provide suitable amounts of the food plant genera for this species. This species is not present. Scientific Name Common Name Taxon Group Federal List State List Other Status Habitats General Habitat Micro Habitat Presence/ Absence Bombus pensylvanicus American bumble bee Insects None None IUCN_VU- Vulnerable Coastal prairie | Great Basin grassland | Valley & foothill grassland Long-tongued; forages on a wide variety of flowers including vetches (Vicia), clovers (Trifolium), thistles (Cirsium), sunflowers (Helianthus), etc. Nests above ground under long grass or underground. Queens overwinter in rotten wood or underground. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Scientific Name Common Name Taxon Group Federal List State List Other Status Habitats General Habitat Micro Habitat Presence/ Absence Buteo swainsoni Swainson's hawk Birds None Threatened BLM_S-Sensitive | IUCN_LC-Least Concern Great Basin grassland | Riparian forest | Riparian woodland | Valley & foothill grassland Breeds in grasslands with scattered trees, juniper-sage flats, riparian areas, savannahs, and agricultural or ranch lands with groves or lines of trees. Requires adjacent suitable foraging areas such as grasslands, or alfalfa or grain fields supporting rodent populations. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Catostomus santaanae Santa Ana sucker Fish Threatened None AFS_TH- Threatened | IUCN_EN- Endangered Aquatic | South coast flowing waters Endemic to Los Angeles Basin south coastal streams. Habitat generalists, but prefer sand- rubble-boulder bottoms, cool, clear water, and algae. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Ceratochrysis longimala Desert cuckoo wasp Insects None None No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Scientific Name Common Name Taxon Group Federal List State List Other Status Habitats General Habitat Micro Habitat Presence/ Absence Chaetodipus fallax fallax northwestern San Diego pocket mouse Mammals None None Chaparral | Coastal scrub Coastal scrub, chaparral, grasslands, sagebrush, etc. in western San Diego, Riverside, San Bernardino, and Los Angeles Counties, inclusive of Orange County. Sandy, herbaceous areas, usually in association with rocks or coarse gravel. The project site is heavily disturbed and only has a minimal amount of coastal scrub habitat on site on a rocky slope. The project site does not provide suitable habitat. This species is not present. Chaetodipus fallax pallidus pallid San Diego pocket mouse Mammals None None Desert wash | Pinon & juniper woodlands | Sonoran desert scrub Desert border areas of San Diego, Riverside, San Bernardino, and Los Angeles counties in desert wash, desert scrub, desert succulent scrub, pinyon-juniper, etc. Sandy, herbaceous areas, usually in association with rocks or coarse gravel. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Scientific Name Common Name Taxon Group Federal List State List Other Status Habitats General Habitat Micro Habitat Presence/ Absence Charina umbratica southern rubber boa Reptiles None Threatened IUCN_VU- Vulnerable | USFS_S-Sensitive Meadow & seep | Riparian forest | Riparian woodland | Upper montane coniferous forest | Wetland Found in a variety of montane forest habitats. Previously considered morphologically intermediate, recent (2022) genomic analysis clarifies individuals from Mt Pinos, Tehachapi Mts, and southern Sierra Nevada are southern rubber boa. Found in vicinity of streams or wet meadows; requires loose, moist soil for burrowing; seeks cover in rotting logs, rock outcrops, and under surface litter. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Cicindela tranquebarica viridissima greenest tiger beetle Insects None None Riparian woodland Inhabits the woodlands adjacent to the Santa Ana River basin. Usually found in open spots between trees. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Scientific Name Common Name Taxon Group Federal List State List Other Status Habitats General Habitat Micro Habitat Presence/ Absence Coccyzus americanus occidentalis western yellow- billed cuckoo Birds Threatened Endangered BLM_S-Sensitive | USFS_S-Sensitive Riparian forest Riparian forest nester, along the broad, lower flood- bottoms of larger river systems. Nests in riparian jungles of willow, often mixed with cottonwoods, with lower story of blackberry, nettles, or wild grape. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Coleonyx variegatus abbotti San Diego banded gecko Reptiles None None CDFW_SSC- Species of Special Concern Chaparral | Coastal scrub Coastal and cismontane Southern California. Found in granite or rocky outcrops in coastal scrub and chaparral habitats. The project site is outside the known range for this species. This species is not present. Coturnicops noveboracensi s yellow rail Birds None None CDFW_SSC- Species of Special Concern | IUCN_LC-Least Concern | USFS_S- Sensitive | USFWS_BCC-Birds of Conservation Concern Freshwater marsh | Meadow & seep Summer resident in eastern Sierra Nevada in Mono County. Freshwater marshlands. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Scientific Name Common Name Taxon Group Federal List State List Other Status Habitats General Habitat Micro Habitat Presence/ Absence Crotalus ruber red-diamond rattlesnake Reptiles None None CDFW_SSC- Species of Special Concern | IUCN_LC-Least Concern | USFS_S- Sensitive Chaparral | Mojavean desert scrub | Sonoran desert scrub Chaparral, woodland, grassland, and desert areas from coastal San Diego County to the eastern slopes of the mountains. Occurs in rocky areas and dense vegetation. Needs rodent burrows, cracks in rocks or surface cover objects. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Diadophis punctatus modestus San Bernardino ringneck snake Reptiles None None USFS_S-Sensitive Most common in open, relatively rocky areas. Often in somewhat moist microhabitats near intermittent streams. Avoids moving through open or barren areas by restricting movements to areas of surface litter or herbaceous veg. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Dipodomys merriami parvus San Bernardino kangaroo rat Mammals Endangered Candidate Endangered CDFW_SSC- Species of Special Concern Coastal scrub Alluvial scrub vegetation on sandy loam substrates characteristic of alluvial fans and flood plains. Needs early to intermediate seral stages. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Scientific Name Common Name Taxon Group Federal List State List Other Status Habitats General Habitat Micro Habitat Presence/ Absence Dipodomys stephensi Stephens' kangaroo rat Mammals Threatened Threatened IUCN_VU- Vulnerable Coastal scrub | Valley & foothill grassland Primarily annual and perennial grasslands, but also occurs in coastal scrub and sagebrush with sparse canopy cover. Prefers buckwheat, chamise, brome grass and filaree. Will burrow into firm soil. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Empidonax traillii extimus southwestern willow flycatcher Birds Endangered Endangered Riparian woodland Riparian woodlands in Southern California. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Emys marmorata western pond turtle Reptiles None None BLM_S-Sensitive | CDFW_SSC- Species of Special Concern | IUCN_VU- Vulnerable | USFS_S-Sensitive Aquatic | Artificial flowing waters | Klamath/North coast flowing waters | Klamath/North coast standing waters | Marsh & swamp | Sacramento/San Joaquin flowing waters | Sacramento/San Joaquin standing waters | South coast flowing waters | South coast stan A thoroughly aquatic turtle of ponds, marshes, rivers, streams and irrigation ditches, usually with aquatic vegetation, below 6000 ft elevation. Needs basking sites and suitable (sandy banks or grassy open fields) upland habitat up to 0.5 km from water for egg-laying. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Scientific Name Common Name Taxon Group Federal List State List Other Status Habitats General Habitat Micro Habitat Presence/ Absence Eremophila alpestris actia California horned lark Birds None None CDFW_WL-Watch List | IUCN_LC- Least Concern Marine intertidal & splash zone communities | Meadow & seep Coastal regions, chiefly from Sonoma County to San Diego County. Also main part of San Joaquin Valley and east to foothills. Short-grass prairie, "bald" hills, mountain meadows, open coastal plains, fallow grain fields, alkali flats. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Euchloe hyantis andrewsi Andrew's marble butterfly Insects None None Lower montane coniferous forest Inhabits yellow pine forest near Lake Arrowhead and Big Bear Lake, San Bernardino Mtns, San Bernardino Co, 5000-6000 ft. Hostplants are Streptanthus bernardinus and Arabis holboellii var pinetorum; larval foodplant is Descurainia richardsonii. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Eumops perotis californicus western mastiff bat Mammals None None BLM_S-Sensitive | CDFW_SSC- Species of Special Concern Chaparral | Cismontane woodland | Coastal scrub | Valley & foothill grassland Many open, semi- arid to arid habitats, including conifer and deciduous woodlands, coastal scrub, grasslands, chaparral, etc. Roosts in crevices in cliff faces, high buildings, trees and tunnels. No crevices suitable for roosting bats were found to occur on the slope on site. This species is not present. Scientific Name Common Name Taxon Group Federal List State List Other Status Habitats General Habitat Micro Habitat Presence/ Absence Euphydryas editha quino quino checkerspot butterfly Insects Endangered None Chaparral | Coastal scrub Sunny openings within chaparral and coastal sage shrublands in parts of Riverside and San Diego counties. Hills and mesas near the coast. Need high densities of food plants Plantago erecta, P. insularis, and Orthocarpus purpurescens. The host plants for this species are not present. This species is not present. Falco columbarius merlin Birds None None CDFW_WL-Watch List | IUCN_LC- Least Concern Estuary | Great Basin grassland | Valley & foothill grassland Seacoast, tidal estuaries, open woodlands, savannahs, edges of grasslands and deserts, farms and ranches. Clumps of trees or windbreaks are required for roosting in open country. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Gila orcuttii arroyo chub Fish None None AFS_VU- Vulnerable | CDFW_SSC- Species of Special Concern | IUCN_VU- Vulnerable | USFS_S-Sensitive Aquatic | South coast flowing waters Native to streams from Malibu Creek to San Luis Rey River basin. Introduced into streams in Santa Clara, Ventura, Santa Ynez, Mojave and San Diego river basins. Slow water stream sections with mud or sand bottoms. Feeds heavily on aquatic vegetation and associated invertebrates. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Scientific Name Common Name Taxon Group Federal List State List Other Status Habitats General Habitat Micro Habitat Presence/ Absence Glaucomys oregonensis californicus San Bernardino flying squirrel Mammals None None CDFW_SSC- Species of Special Concern | USFS_S- Sensitive Broadleaved upland forest | Lower montane coniferous forest Known from black oak or white fir dominated woodlands between 5200 - 8500 ft in the San Bernardino and San Jacinto ranges. May be extirpated from San Jacinto range. Needs cavities in trees/snags for nests and cover. Needs nearby water. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Icteria virens yellow-breasted chat Birds None None CDFW_SSC- Species of Special Concern | IUCN_LC-Least Concern Riparian forest | Riparian scrub | Riparian woodland Summer resident; inhabits riparian thickets of willow and other brushy tangles near watercourses. Nests in low, dense riparian, consisting of willow, blackberry, wild grape; forages and nests within 10 ft of ground. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Scientific Name Common Name Taxon Group Federal List State List Other Status Habitats General Habitat Micro Habitat Presence/ Absence Lanius ludovicianus loggerhead shrike Birds None None CDFW_SSC- Species of Special Concern | IUCN_NT-Near Threatened Broadleaved upland forest | Desert wash | Joshua tree woodland | Mojavean desert scrub | Pinon & juniper woodlands | Riparian woodland | Sonoran desert scrub Broken woodlands, savannah, pinyon- juniper, Joshua tree, and riparian woodlands, desert oases, scrub and washes. Prefers open country for hunting, with perches for scanning, and fairly dense shrubs and brush for nesting. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Lasiurus xanthinus western yellow bat Mammals None None CDFW_SSC- Species of Special Concern | IUCN_LC-Least Concern Desert wash Found in valley foothill riparian, desert riparian, desert wash, and palm oasis habitats. Roosts in trees, particularly palms. Forages over water and among trees. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Laterallus jamaicensis coturniculus California black rail Birds None Threatened BLM_S-Sensitive | CDFW_FP-Fully Protected | IUCN_EN- Endangered Brackish marsh | Freshwater marsh | Marsh & swamp | Salt marsh | Wetland Inhabits freshwater marshes, wet meadows and shallow margins of saltwater marshes bordering larger bays. Needs water depths of about 1 inch that do not fluctuate during the year and dense vegetation for nesting habitat. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Scientific Name Common Name Taxon Group Federal List State List Other Status Habitats General Habitat Micro Habitat Presence/ Absence Lepus californicus bennettii San Diego black- tailed jackrabbit Mammals None None Coastal scrub Intermediate canopy stages of shrub habitats and open shrub / herbaceous and tree / herbaceous edges. Coastal sage scrub habitats in Southern California. The project site is heavily disturbed. The only coastal scrub on site is on the steep slope on the southern portion of the site. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Neolarra alba white cuckoo bee Insects None None Known only from localities in Southern California. Cleptoparasitic in the nests of perdita bees. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Neotoma lepida intermedia San Diego desert woodrat Mammals None None CDFW_SSC- Species of Special Concern Coastal scrub Coastal scrub of Southern California from San Diego County to San Luis Obispo County. Moderate to dense canopies preferred. They are particularly abundant in rock outcrops, rocky cliffs, and slopes. No woodrat nests were found on site during the general survey. This species is not present. Scientific Name Common Name Taxon Group Federal List State List Other Status Habitats General Habitat Micro Habitat Presence/ Absence Nyctinomops femorosaccus pocketed free- tailed bat Mammals None None CDFW_SSC- Species of Special Concern | IUCN_LC-Least Concern Joshua tree woodland | Pinon & juniper woodlands | Riparian scrub | Sonoran desert scrub Variety of arid areas in Southern California; pine- juniper woodlands, desert scrub, palm oasis, desert wash, desert riparian, etc. Rocky areas with high cliffs. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Oncorhynchus mykiss irideus pop. 10 steelhead - southern California DPS Fish Endangered Candidate Endangered AFS_EN- Endangered Aquatic | South coast flowing waters Federal listing refers to populations from Santa Maria River south to southern extent of range (San Mateo Creek in San Diego County). Southern steelhead likely have greater physiological tolerances to warmer water and more variable conditions. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Onychomys torridus ramona southern grasshopper mouse Mammals None None CDFW_SSC- Species of Special Concern Chenopod scrub Desert areas, especially scrub habitats with friable soils for digging. Prefers low to moderate shrub cover. Feeds almost exclusively on arthropods, especially scorpions and orthopteran insects. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Scientific Name Common Name Taxon Group Federal List State List Other Status Habitats General Habitat Micro Habitat Presence/ Absence Ovis canadensis nelsoni desert bighorn sheep Mammals None None BLM_S-Sensitive | CDFW_FP-Fully Protected | USFS_S-Sensitive Alpine | Alpine dwarf scrub | Chaparral | Chenopod scrub | Great Basin scrub | Mojavean desert scrub | Montane dwarf scrub | Pinon & juniper woodlands | Riparian woodland | Sonoran desert scrub Widely distributed from the White Mtns in Mono Co. to the Chocolate Mts in Imperial Co. Open, rocky, steep areas with available water and herbaceous forage. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Perognathus longimembris brevinasus Los Angeles pocket mouse Mammals None None CDFW_SSC- Species of Special Concern Coastal scrub Lower elevation grasslands and coastal sage communities in and around the Los Angeles Basin. Open ground with fine, sandy soils. May not dig extensive burrows, hiding under weeds and dead leaves instead. The project site is heavily disturbed and rocky. The coastal scrub is present on the slope. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Scientific Name Common Name Taxon Group Federal List State List Other Status Habitats General Habitat Micro Habitat Presence/ Absence Phrynosoma blainvillii coast horned lizard Reptiles None None BLM_S-Sensitive | CDFW_SSC- Species of Special Concern | IUCN_LC-Least Concern Chaparral | Cismontane woodland | Coastal bluff scrub | Coastal scrub | Desert wash | Pinon & juniper woodlands | Riparian scrub | Riparian woodland | Valley & foothill grassland Frequents a wide variety of habitats, most common in lowlands along sandy washes with scattered low bushes. Open areas for sunning, bushes for cover, patches of loose soil for burial, and abundant supply of ants and other insects. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Polioptila californica californica coastal California gnatcatcher Birds Threatened None CDFW_SSC- Species of Special Concern Coastal bluff scrub | Coastal scrub Obligate, permanent resident of coastal sage scrub below 2500 ft in Southern California. Low, coastal sage scrub in arid washes, on mesas and slopes. Not all areas classified as coastal sage scrub are occupied. No coastal California gnatcatcher were observed during the focused surveys. This species is not present. Scientific Name Common Name Taxon Group Federal List State List Other Status Habitats General Habitat Micro Habitat Presence/ Absence Rana muscosa southern mountain yellow- legged frog Amphibia ns Endangered Endangered CDFW_WL-Watch List | IUCN_EN- Endangered | USFS_S-Sensitive Aquatic Disjunct populations known from southern Sierras (northern DPS) and San Gabriel, San Bernardino, and San Jacinto Mtns (southern DPS). Found at 1,000 to 12,000 ft in lakes and creeks that stem from springs and snowmelt. May overwinter under frozen lakes. Often encountered within a few feet of water. Tadpoles may require 2 - 4 yrs to complete their aquatic development. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Rhaphiomidas terminatus abdominalis Delhi Sands flower-loving fly Insects Endangered None Interior dunes Found only in areas of the Delhi Sands formation in southwestern San Bernardino and northwestern Riverside counties. Requires fine, sandy soils, often with wholly or partly consolidated dunes and sparse vegetation. Oviposition req. shade. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Scientific Name Common Name Taxon Group Federal List State List Other Status Habitats General Habitat Micro Habitat Presence/ Absence Rhinichthys osculus ssp. 8 Santa Ana speckled dace Fish None None AFS_TH- Threatened | CDFW_SSC- Species of Special Concern | USFS_S- Sensitive Aquatic | South coast flowing waters Headwaters of the Santa Ana and San Gabriel rivers. May be extirpated from the Los Angeles River system. Requires permanent flowing streams with summer water temps of 17-20 C. Usually inhabits shallow cobble and gravel riffles. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Setophaga petechia yellow warbler Birds None None CDFW_SSC- Species of Special Concern | IUCN_LC-Least Concern Riparian forest | Riparian scrub | Riparian woodland Riparian plant associations in close proximity to water. Also nests in montane shrubbery in open conifer forests in Cascades and Sierra Nevada. Frequently found nesting and foraging in willow shrubs and thickets, and in other riparian plants including cottonwoods, sycamores, ash, and alders. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Spea hammondii western spadefoot Amphibia ns None None BLM_S-Sensitive | CDFW_SSC- Species of Special Concern | IUCN_NT-Near Threatened Cismontane woodland | Coastal scrub | Valley & foothill grassland | Vernal pool | Wetland Occurs primarily in grassland habitats, but can be found in valley-foothill hardwood woodlands. Vernal pools are essential for breeding and egg-laying. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Scientific Name Common Name Taxon Group Federal List State List Other Status Habitats General Habitat Micro Habitat Presence/ Absence Spinus lawrencei Lawrence's goldfinch Birds None None IUCN_LC-Least Concern | USFWS_BCC-Birds of Conservation Concern Broadleaved upland forest | Chaparral | Pinon & juniper woodlands | Riparian woodland Nests in open oak or other arid woodland and chaparral, near water. Nearby herbaceous habitats used for feeding. Closely associated with oaks. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Streptocephal us woottoni Riverside fairy shrimp Crustacea ns Endangered None IUCN_EN- Endangered Coastal scrub | Valley & foothill grassland | Vernal pool | Wetland Endemic to Western Riverside, Orange, and San Diego counties in areas of tectonic swales/earth slump basins in grassland and coastal sage scrub. Inhabit seasonally astatic pools filled by winter/spring rains. Hatch in warm water later in the season. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Scientific Name Common Name Taxon Group Federal List State List Other Status Habitats General Habitat Micro Habitat Presence/ Absence Taxidea taxus American badger Mammals None None CDFW_SSC- Species of Special Concern | IUCN_LC-Least Concern Alkali marsh | Alkali playa | Alpine | Alpine dwarf scrub | Bog & fen | Brackish marsh | Broadleaved upland forest | Chaparral | Chenopod scrub | Cismontane woodland | Closed- cone coniferous forest | Coastal bluff scrub | Coastal dunes | Coastal prairie | Most abundant in drier open stages of most shrub, forest, and herbaceous habitats, with friable soils. Needs sufficient food, friable soils and open, uncultivated ground. Preys on burrowing rodents. Digs burrows. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Thamnophis hammondii two-striped gartersnake Reptiles None None BLM_S-Sensitive | CDFW_SSC- Species of Special Concern | IUCN_LC-Least Concern | USFS_S- Sensitive Marsh & swamp | Riparian scrub | Riparian woodland | Wetland Coastal California from vicinity of Salinas to northwest Baja California. From sea to about 7,000 ft elevation. Highly aquatic, found in or near permanent fresh water. Often along streams with rocky beds and riparian growth. No suitable habitat occurs on site. This species is not present. Scientific Name Common Name Taxon Group Federal List State List Other Status Habitats General Habitat Micro Habitat Presence/ Absence Vireo bellii pusillus least Bell's vireo Birds Endangered Endangered Riparian forest | Riparian scrub | Riparian woodland Summer resident of Southern California in low riparian in vicinity of water or in dry river bottoms; below 2000 ft. Nests placed along margins of bushes or on twigs projecting into pathways, usually willow, Baccharis, mesquite. A LBV was heard just south of the project site in a small ephemeral stream offsite. The stream was upland vegetated and does not provide suitable nesting habitat. No suitable riparian habitat occurs on site for this species. This species is not present. APPENDIX C View of the disturbed areas on the southwest portion of the site. View facing south. View of the ruderal habitat on the northern portion of the site. View facing south View of the disturbed riversidean sage scrub on the slope on site and the ruderal habitat. View from the northeast corner of the site facing southwest. View of disturbed areas on the northeast portion of the site. View facing north. Offsite upland vegetated ephemeral stream where LBV was recorded. The offsite stream does not provide suitable nesting habitat for LBV. No streams or suitable LBV habitat occur on site. APPENDIX D Soil Map—San Bernardino County Southwestern Part, California Natural Resources Conservation Service Web Soil Survey National Cooperative Soil Survey 10/12/2023 Page 1 of 3 37 6 6 8 7 0 37 6 6 9 3 0 37 6 6 9 9 0 37 6 7 0 5 0 37 6 7 1 1 0 37 6 7 1 7 0 37 6 7 2 3 0 37 6 6 8 7 0 37 6 6 9 3 0 37 6 6 9 9 0 37 6 7 0 5 0 37 6 7 1 1 0 37 6 7 1 7 0 37 6 7 2 3 0 455490 455550 455610 455670 455730 455790 455850 455910 455970 456030 455490 455550 455610 455670 455730 455790 455850 455910 455970 456030 34° 2' 41'' N 11 7 ° 2 8 ' 5 6 ' ' W 34° 2' 41'' N 11 7 ° 2 8 ' 3 3 ' ' W 34° 2' 29'' N 11 7 ° 2 8 ' 5 6 ' ' W 34° 2' 29'' N 11 7 ° 2 8 ' 3 3 ' ' W N Map projection: Web Mercator Corner coordinates: WGS84 Edge tics: UTM Zone 11N WGS84 0 100 200 400 600 Feet 0 40 80 160 240 Meters Map Scale: 1:2,710 if printed on A landscape (11" x 8.5") sheet. Soil Map may not be valid at this scale. MAP LEGEND MAP INFORMATION Area of Interest (AOI) Area of Interest (AOI) Soils Soil Map Unit Polygons Soil Map Unit Lines Soil Map Unit Points Special Point Features Blowout Borrow Pit Clay Spot Closed Depression Gravel Pit Gravelly Spot Landfill Lava Flow Marsh or swamp Mine or Quarry Miscellaneous Water Perennial Water Rock Outcrop Saline Spot Sandy Spot Severely Eroded Spot Sinkhole Slide or Slip Sodic Spot Spoil Area Stony Spot Very Stony Spot Wet Spot Other Special Line Features Water Features Streams and Canals Transportation Rails Interstate Highways US Routes Major Roads Local Roads Background Aerial Photography The soil surveys that comprise your AOI were mapped at 1:24,000. Warning: Soil Map may not be valid at this scale. Enlargement of maps beyond the scale of mapping can cause misunderstanding of the detail of mapping and accuracy of soil line placement. The maps do not show the small areas of contrasting soils that could have been shown at a more detailed scale. Please rely on the bar scale on each map sheet for map measurements. Source of Map: Natural Resources Conservation Service Web Soil Survey URL: Coordinate System: Web Mercator (EPSG:3857) Maps from the Web Soil Survey are based on the Web Mercator projection, which preserves direction and shape but distorts distance and area. A projection that preserves area, such as the Albers equal-area conic projection, should be used if more accurate calculations of distance or area are required. This product is generated from the USDA-NRCS certified data as of the version date(s) listed below. Soil Survey Area: San Bernardino County Southwestern Part, California Survey Area Data: Version 15, Aug 30, 2023 Soil map units are labeled (as space allows) for map scales 1:50,000 or larger. Date(s) aerial images were photographed: Mar 17, 2022—Jun 12, 2022 The orthophoto or other base map on which the soil lines were compiled and digitized probably differs from the background imagery displayed on these maps. As a result, some minor shifting of map unit boundaries may be evident. Soil Map—San Bernardino County Southwestern Part, California Natural Resources Conservation Service Web Soil Survey National Cooperative Soil Survey 10/12/2023 Page 2 of 3 Map Unit Legend Map Unit Symbol Map Unit Name Acres in AOI Percent of AOI CnD Cieneba sandy loam, 9 to 15 percent slopes 11.1 70.0% Cr Cieneba-Rock outcrop complex, 30 to 50 percent slopes, MLRA 20 4.7 30.0% TuB Tujunga loamy sand, 0 to 5 percent slopes 0.0 0.0% Totals for Area of Interest 15.8 100.0% Soil Map—San Bernardino County Southwestern Part, California Natural Resources Conservation Service Web Soil Survey National Cooperative Soil Survey 10/12/2023 Page 3 of 3 APPENDIX E SEPTEMBER 2023 Southridge Project Coastal California GnatcatcherPresence/Absence Final Report Hernandez Environmental 17037 Lakeshore Dr Lake Eslinore, CA 92530 PREPARED FOR Huffman Environmental PO Box 2024 Julian, CA 92036 PREPARED BY 2023 SOUTHRIDGE PROJECT -45-DAY COASTAL CALIFORNIA GNATCATCHER SURVEY REPORT TABLE OF CONTENTS 1.SUMMARY ...................................................................................................2 2.INTRODUCTION ..........................................................................................2 2.1 Project Description .....................................................................................1 2.2 Survey Location and Background ..............................................................1 2.3 Coastal California Gnatcatcher Natural History ..........................................1 3.METHODS ...................................................................................................3 4.RESULTS ....................................................................................................4 5.CERTFICATION ..........................................................................................6 6.REFERENCES .............................................................................................7 LIST OF TABLES Table 1:Survey Schedule ................................................................................3 LIST OF FIGURES Figure 1:Project Vicinity Figure 2:USGS Map Location Figure 3a:Survey Area and Results (Phase 1) Figure 3b:Survey Area and Results (Phase 2) LIST OF APPENDICES Appendix A:Avian Species Observed Appendix B:Data Sheets 2023 SOUTHRIDGE PROJECT -45-DAY COASTAL CALIFORNIA GNATCATCHER SURVEY REPORT 1.Summary This report summarizes surveys conducted by Huffman Environmental for the federally Threatened coastal California gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica californica; CAGN)on behalf of Hernandez Biological for the Southridge Project.Permitted biologists were conducted in accordance with the U.S.Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS)1997 CAGN presence/absence survey protocol (USFWS 1997)for locations not covered under the Natural Community Conservation Planning (NCCP) jurisdiction.Huffman Environmental conducted surveys between April 27 and June 03,2021,on two parcels totaling 37 acres,identified as Phase 1 for reporting purposes.Surveyors made zero CAGN observations over six surveys.In 2023,an adjacent 14.56 parcel,identified as Phase 2,was added to this project.Surveys conducted an additional six CAGN surveys from April 09 to May 14,2023.This parcel also resulted in zero CAGN observations.. 2.Introduction 2.1 Project Description The Proposed Project is located at APN 0237-411-14,0237-411-130,and 0237-411- 27 within Fontana city limits,San Bernardino County.The project proposes constructing within the approximately 37-acre parcels known as Phase 1 and an adjacent 14.56-acre parcel known as Phase 2.Permanent impacts will occur to Riversidean Upland Sage Scrub,a vegetation community suitable for supporting CAGN populations (Figure 1). 2.2 Survey Location and Background The Southridge Project is in the U.S.Geological Survey Fontana Quadrangle,in San Bernardino County,in southeast Rancho Cucamonga,California.Project boundaries are located 0.3 miles east of Southridge Middle School and share property boundaries with Southridge Park (Figure 2). 2.3 Coastal California Gnatcatcher Natural History The CAGN is a year-round resident of southern California found in the six southernmost California counties (San Bernardino,Ventura,Los Angeles,Orange, San Diego,Riverside)located within the coastal plain.Coastal California gnatcatchers typically occur in coastal sage scrub (CSS)vegetation communities of southern California,especially in locations dominated by California sagebrush (Artemisia californica)and California buckwheat (Eriogonum fasciculatum).Other shrubs in CAGN-occupied CSS include: Black sage (Salvia mellifera). California bush sunflower (Encelia californica). 2023 SOUTHRIDGE PROJECT -45-DAY COASTAL CALIFORNIA GNATCATCHER SURVEY REPORT White sage (Salvia apiana). Lemonadeberry (Rhus integrifolia). Laurel sumac (Malosma laurina). Brittlebush (Encelia farinosa). Coastal California gnatcatchers are typically found in stands of CSS with moderate shrub canopy cover,generally greater than 50 percent (Beyers &Wirtz,1997). Coastal California gnatcatchers will use sparsely vegetated CSS as long as perennial shrubs are available,although there appears to be a minimum cover threshold below which the habitat becomes unsuitable (USFWS 2007).The relative density of shrub cover influences CAGN territory sizes,with territory sizes increasing as shrub cover decreases,likely due to limited resource availability (Beyers &Wirtz,1997).The CAGN preys upon arthropods,including insects such as leafhoppers,planthoppers, and spiders commonly found in CSS plant communities (Burger et al.,1999).Beyers and Wirtz (1997)speculate that the non-native grasses and forbs that typically occupy the gaps between shrub species do not support a sufficient insect fauna and that there are probably differences in insect availability among shrub species as well, which may explain CAGN’s shrub preference. The breeding season of the coastal California gnatcatcher extends from approximately February 15 through August 30,with peak nesting activity typically occurring from mid-March through mid-May.Egg incubation takes approximately 14 days,and the young fledge at 8 to 13 days of age and are dependent upon their parents for as little as three to four weeks (ERCE 1990)or may associate with their parents for up to several months (USFWS 1997). 3.Methods Huffman Environmental Biologist Garrett Huffman TE-20186A-3.1 conducted six survey visits between April 27 and June 03,2021.Surveys were conducted within suitable CAGN habitats.The USFWS CAGN survey protocol (1997)describes suitable habitats as low-growing,drought-deciduous sage scrub.CAGN also uses chaparral,grassland,and riparian communities adjacent to sage scrub.Vegetation communities were documented and mapped within survey areas in conjunction with the first protocol survey.The suitable habitat throughout the survey area comprises mainly Riversidean Upland Sage Scrub. Pedestrian surveys were conducted through the survey areas using passive and active methodologies.Taped vocalizations were used sparingly to elicit a CAGN response.Bird species were observed with the aid of binoculars.A complete list of bird species observed during the surveys is included in Appendix A. 2023 SOUTHRIDGE PROJECT -45-DAY COASTAL CALIFORNIA GNATCATCHER SURVEY REPORT Table 1 Survey Schedule Phase 1 (APN 0237-411-14 &0237-411-130) Survey Number Date Surveyor Time (Start-End) Temp F (Start- End) Cloud Cover (Start- End) Wind Range in mph (Start-End) #1 04/29/21 Garrett Huffman 0830-1030 51-56 80-25 2-5;3-8 #2 05/06/21 Garrett Huffman 0930-1130 65-71 0-0 0-2;0-2 #3 05/13/21 Garrett Huffman 0900-1100 69-75 0-0 3-6;2-6 #4 05/20/21 Garrett Huffman 0900-1100 60-68 0-0 3-6;2-8 #5 05/27/21 Garrett Huffman 1000-1200 62-70 0-0 0-3;2-6 #6 06/03/21 Garrett Huffman 0700-0930 65-75 0-0 2-5;2-6 Phase 2 (APN 0237-411-27) Survey Number Date Surveyor Time (Start-End) Temp F (Start- End) Cloud Cover (Start- End) Wind Range in mph (Start-End) #1 04/09/2023 Scott Duff 0900-1200 64-76 2-5 0 #2 04/16/2023 Scott Duff 0830-1100 65-68 2-5 25 #3 04/23/2023 Scott Duff 0900-1100 85-88 2-5 0 #4 04/30/2023 Scott Duff 0900-1100 69-72 3-6 30 #5 05/07/2023 Scott Duff 0800-1000 60-64 0-3 20 #6 05/14/2023 Scott Duff 0900-1100 75-74 0-3 15 4.Results Zero Coastal California gnatcatchers were observed at Phase 1 during 2021 and Phase 2 during the 2023 surveys.Six surveys for each were spaced at least one week apart during breeding season within areas not covered under the NCCP jurisdiction.Survey methodology was conducted in accordance with USFWS CAGN Survey Protocol (Figure 3a and 3b). 2023 SOUTHRIDGE PROJECT -45-DAY COASTAL CALIFORNIA GNATCATCHER SURVEY REPORT One least Bell’s vireo (Vireo bellii pusillus),a federally endangered species,was incidentally observed and mapped south of the project site boundaries during one survey (Figure 3b). 2023 SOUTHRIDGE PROJECT -45-DAY COASTAL CALIFORNIA GNATCATCHER SURVEY REPORT 5.Certification All biologists working under Huffman Environmental for the Coastal California gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica californica)Southridge Project were permitted to survey for this species under Section 10(a)(1)(A)of the ESA. I certify that the information in this survey report and attached exhibits fully and accurately represents my work. Please feel free to contact me at (623)238-1545 or garrett@huffmanenvironmental.com if you have any questions regarding the contents of this report. Cordially, Garrett Huffman Scott Duff TE-20186A-3.2 TE-59586B-1 Principal Biologist Huffman Environmental,LLC (623)238-1545 garrett@huffmanenvironmental.com 2023 SOUTHRIDGE PROJECT -45-DAY COASTAL CALIFORNIA GNATCATCHER SURVEY REPORT 6.References Burger,J.C.,M.A.Patten,J.T.Rotenberry,and R.A Redak.1999.Foraging ecology of the California gnatcatcher deduced from fecal samples. Oecologia 120 (2):304-310. Beyers,J.L and W.O.Wirtz.1997.Vegetative Characteristics of Coastal Sage Scrub Sites Used by California Gnatcatchers:Implications for Management in a Fire-Prone.Ecosystem.Proceedings-Fire Effects on Rare and Endangered Species and Habitats Conference,Nov.13-16, 1995.Coeur d Alene,Idaho.Environmental and Energy Service Company. 1990.Phase I Report Amber Ridge California. Gnatcatcher Study.Report for the County of San Diego Department of Planning and Land Use Environmental Quality Division.San Diego,California. U.S.Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS)1997.Coastal California Gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica californica)Presence/Absence Survey Protocol.5 pages. 2007.Revised Designation of Critical Habitat for the Coastal California Gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica californica).Federal Register Vol.72,No. 243.December 19,2007. 2023 SOUTHRIDGE PROJECT -45-DAY COASTAL CALIFORNIA GNATCATCHER SURVEY REPORT APPENDIX A AVIAN SPECIES OBSERVED 2023 SOUTHRIDGE PROJECT -45-DAY COASTAL CALIFORNIA GNATCATCHER SURVEY REPORT Phase 1:(APN 0237-411-14 &0237-411-130) Common Name Scientific Name American Crow Corvus brachyrhynchos American Kestrel Falco sparverius Anna’s Hummingbird Calypte anna Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica Bewick’s Wren Thryomanes bewicki Black Phoebe Sayornis nigricans Bushtit Psaltriparus minimus California Towhee Melozone crissalis California Scrub-Jay Aphelocoma californica Canyon Wren Catherpes mexicanus Cassin’s Kingbird Tyrannus vociferans Common Raven Corvus corax House Finch Haemorhous mexicanus House Sparrow Passer domesticus Lesser Goldfinch Spinus psaltria Mourning Dove Zenaida macroura Northern Mockingbird Mimus polyglottos Orange-crowned Warbler Leiothlypis celata Red-tailed Hawk Picoides nuttalli Rock Wren Salpinctes obsoletus Rufous-crowned Sparrow Aimophila ruficeps Say’s Phoebe Sayornis saya Selasphorus Species Selasphorus sp. Turkey Vulture Cathartes aura Western Tanager Piranga ludoviciana White-throated Swift Aeronautes saxatalis 2023 SOUTHRIDGE PROJECT -45-DAY COASTAL CALIFORNIA GNATCATCHER SURVEY REPORT Yellow-rumped Warbler Setophaga coronata Phase 2 (APN 0237-411-27) Common Name Scientific Name Allen's Hummingbird Selasphorus sasin American Crow Corvus brachyrhynchos American Pipit Anthus rubescens American Robin Turdus migratorius Anna's Hummingbird Calypte anna Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica Bell's Vireo Vireo bellii Bewick's Wren Thryomanes bewickii Black Phoebe Sayornis nigricans Black-and-white Warbler Mniotilta varia Black-headed Grosbeak Pheucticus melanocephalus Blue-gray Gnatcatcher Polioptila caerulea Bullock's Oriole Icterus bullockii Bushtit Psaltriparus minimus California Thrasher Toxostoma redivivum Canada Goose Branta canadensis Canyon Wren Catherpes mexicanus Common Raven Corvus corax Common Yellowthroat Geothlypis trichas Cooper's Hawk Accipiter cooperii Costa's Hummingbird Calypte costae Great Blue Heron Ardea herodias Great-tailed Grackle Quiscalus mexicanus House Finch Haemorhous mexicanus 2023 SOUTHRIDGE PROJECT -45-DAY COASTAL CALIFORNIA GNATCATCHER SURVEY REPORT House Sparrow Passer domesticus Lark Sparrow Chondestes grammacus Lawrence's Goldfinch Spinus lawrencei Lesser Goldfinch Spinus psaltria Lincoln's Sparrow Melospiza lincolnii Mallard Anas platyrhynchos Mallard Anas platyrhynchos Mourning Dove Zenaida macroura Northern Mockingbird Mimus polyglottos Northern Rough-winged Swallow Stelgidopteryx serripennis Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus Phainopepla Phainopepla nitens Rock Pigeon Columba livia Rock Wren Salpinctes obsoletus Rufous-crowned Sparrow Aimophila ruficeps Savannah Sparrow Passerculus sandwichensis Say's Phoebe Sayornis saya Snowy Egret Egretta thula Song Sparrow Melospiza melodia Turkey Vulture Cathartes aura Western Kingbird Tyrannus verticalis White-crowned Sparrow Zonotrichia leucophrys White-throated Swift Aeronautes saxatalis Wilson's Warbler Cardellina pusilla Yellow-rumped Warbler Setophaga coronata 2023 SOUTHRIDGE PROJECT -45-DAY COASTAL CALIFORNIA GNATCATCHER SURVEY REPORT APPENDIX B DATA FORMS