HomeMy WebLinkAboutBiological Resources Assessment_LSA (July 2019)July 2019
B I O L O G I C A L R E S O U R C E S A S S E S S M E N T
CROOKED CREEK RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT PROJECT
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR, CALIFORNIA
July 2019
B I O L O G I C A L R E S O U R C E S A S S E S S M E N T
CROOKED CREEK RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT PROJECT
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR, CALIFORNIA
Prepared for:
Cathay View Development, LLC
701 S. San Gabriel Blvd, Suite D
San Gabriel, California 91776
Prepared by:
LSA
20 Executive Park, Suite 200
Irvine, California 92614
(949) 553-0666
LSA Project No. CVD1901
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
LSA has prepared this biological resources assessment for the proposed Crooked Creek
Residential Development Project (project) located in Diamond Bar, Los Angeles County,
California. Preliminary plans for the project involve subdividing the existing 13-acre parcel to
create up to 11 new residential lots ranging from 7,500 square feet (sf) to 9,000 sf, with each
home averaging approximately 4,000 sf. Up to 40 percent of the 13-acre parcel would be
permanently impacted due to mass grading activities and retaining wall construction, with the
remaining land and natural resources on the parcel left undisturbed. The project site is currently
vacant and portions of the site have been regularly maintained for many years.
In June 2019, LSA biologists conducted a literature review and records search to identify the
existence and potential for occurrences of sensitive or special-status plant and animal species in
the vicinity of the project area. Federal and state lists of sensitive species were also examined.
Current electronic database records reviewed included the California Natural Diversity
Database, the California Native Plant Society’s Electronic Inventory of Rare and Endangered
Vascular Plants, and the United States Fish and Wildlife Service’s Environmental Conservation
Online System and National Wetlands Inventory. Historic and current aerial imagery, existing
environmental reports for developments in the project vicinity (including prior biological
assessments conducted on the subject property), and regional habitat conservation plans and
local land use policies related to biological resources were also reviewed. A general field survey
of the project area was conducted on June 16, 2019. A focused botanical survey covering the
entire project area was conducted on June 20, 2019. Reference populations of special-status
plant species that bloom during the month of June were visited prior to the botanical survey to
ensure that such species were in bloom or otherwise detectable at the time of site surveys.
The project area is strictly upland in nature with well-drained soils. Vegetation on site mostly
consists of disturbed annual brome grassland with stands of mature coast live oak woodland
and California walnut groves. Historic and ongoing soil disturbance and the resulting
competitive exclusion by invasive nonnative plants limit the potential for special-status plant
species to occur throughout most of the project area. Some native herbaceous plant species are
present in the understory of the mature oak woodland and California walnut groves. Riparian
areas and wetlands are absent from the project area. No special-status plant species were
observed during the field surveys and none are expected to occur on site due to the lack of
suitable habitat as well as historical and ongoing anthropogenic disturbances (e.g., ranching,
disking, and fuel modification/firebreaks around existing residences).
Habitat within the preliminary project construction footprint is considered low quality with
respect to most regionally occurring special-status animal species, and no special-status animal
species were observed during the field surveys or during prior biological assessments conducted
on the property. However, several special-status animal species have been documented as
occurring within riparian woodland vegetation located immediately to the southwest of the
preliminary project construction footprint (associated with unlined portions of Brea Canyon
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Channel). While no such aquatic or riparian habitat occurs in the project area and direct impacts
to this habitat would not occur with project implementation, there is some potential for indirect
disturbances to these adjacent habitats. In addition, suitable nesting and foraging habitat for
various bird species (including raptors) would be removed during project clearing and grading
activities.
While there is low potential for any special-status species to be directly affected by the project,
the project could indirectly affect special-status wildlife species through the attraction of
predators and increased levels of noise, vibration, lighting, and dust during construction
activities. With implementation of recommended mitigation measures and best management
practices (BMPs) during construction, significant impacts to special-status animal species are
not anticipated.
The project, as currently proposed, would permanently remove up to 0.11 acre of mature coast
live oak woodland and up to 1.23 acres of California walnut groves, which are considered
sensitive natural communities. If unmitigated, these impacts on sensitive natural communities
would be considered potentially significant.
With the implementation of recommended mitigation measures, including compensatory
planting for the loss of sensitive natural communities and preservation of the existing stands of
coast live oak and California walnut trees on the remainder of the parcel, no significant impacts
to special-status biological resources are anticipated to occur from the proposed project.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................... 1
Project Description ....................................................................................................................................... 1
Project Setting .............................................................................................................................................. 2
METHODS ........................................................................................................................ 3
Literature Review and Records Search ......................................................................................................... 3
Field Surveys ................................................................................................................................................. 4
RESULTS........................................................................................................................... 5
Soils 5
Urban land-Sorrento-Arbolado complex, 2% to 9% slopes ....................................................................................... 5
Zaca-Apollo, warm complex, 20% to 55% slopes ...................................................................................................... 5
Mocho loam, 2% to 9% slopes .................................................................................................................................. 6
Counterfeit-Urban land complex, 10% to 35% slopes, terraced ............................................................................... 6
Vegetation Communities and Land Cover Types .......................................................................................... 6
Special-Status Biological Resources .............................................................................................................. 7
Special-Status Natural Communities ......................................................................................................................... 8
Special-Status Plants ................................................................................................................................................. 8
Special-Status Animals .............................................................................................................................................. 9
Critical Habitat .......................................................................................................................................................... 9
Jurisdictional Aquatic Resources ............................................................................................................................... 9
Wildlife Movement and Habitat Connectivity ......................................................................................................... 10
Regional Habitat Conservation Plans and Local Policies ......................................................................................... 10
IMPACT FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDED AVOIDANCE AND MITIGATION
MEASURES ..................................................................................................................... 11
Special-Status Natural Communities .......................................................................................................... 11
Special-Status Species ................................................................................................................................ 12
Critical Habitat ............................................................................................................................................ 15
Jurisdictional Aquatic Resources ................................................................................................................ 15
Wildlife Movement and Habitat Connectivity ............................................................................................ 15
Regional Habitat Conservation Plans and Local Policies ............................................................................ 15
Conclusion .................................................................................................................................................. 15
REFERENCES .................................................................................................................. 16
TABLE
Table A: Vegetation and Land Cover Types Within the Project Area ..................................................................... 6
APPENDICES
A: Figures
B: Representative Site Photos
C: Special-Status Species Identified as Potentially Occurring in the Project Vicinity
D: Plant & Animal Species Observed
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INTRODUCTION
LSA has prepared this Biological Resources Assessment for the proposed Crooked Creek Residential
Development Project (project) located at the southern termini of Crooked Creek Drive in the City of
Diamond Bar (City), Los Angeles County, California (refer to Figure 1, Project Location; all figures are
provided in Appendix A). The purpose of this report is to describe and document biological
resources—including sensitive and special-status species—known to occur or with the potential to
occur on the project site. This technical information is provided for project planning purposes and
preliminary review under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), California Endangered
Species Act (CESA), the Federal Endangered Species Act (FESA), and other pertinent regulations.
The Biological Resources Assessment conducted for the project involved the following components:
Reviewing existing relevant scientific literature and other pertinent information related to the
project area;
Creating a list of regionally occurring special-status species determined to have the potential to
occur in the vicinity of the project area;
Characterizing the vegetation communities present within the project area;
Conducting a late-season botanical inventory and focused survey for special-status plant species
known to occur in the project vicinity;
Evaluating the potential for the occurrence of special-status plant and wildlife species within the
project area;
Assessing the potential for proposed development activities to adversely impact existing
biological resources; and
Recommending avoidance and mitigation measures to avoid, minimize, or compensate for any
potentially significant impacts to biological resources.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The project is still in the preliminary planning and approval process. Therefore, this report provides
(1) an assessment of existing biological resources associated with the subject property and (2)
impact analyses based on preliminary site plans prepared by Michael Baker International (dated
March 12, 2019). As such, the project description and footprint presented herein are subject to
refinement and approval.
The project, as currently proposed, involves subdividing the existing 13-acre parcel to create up to
11 new residential lots ranging in size from 7,500 square feet (sf) to 9,000 sf, with each home
averaging approximately 4,000 sf. Each home would include a driveway and garage, above- and
below-grade utility connections, and site finishes (e.g., fenced yards and landscaping). Annual
vegetation adjacent to the new homes would be maintained for fuel modification, consistent with
current practices (or as otherwise required by the Fire Department). The project would involve a
southward expansion of the existing Crooked Creek Drive, with new retaining walls and slope
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contouring (with terrace drains) to stabilize and protect the new residential lots. A new Fire
Department access road and turnaround area would be constructed at the northern end of the
preliminary development footprint. Up to 40 percent of the 13-acre parcel (the western most
portion of the parcel) would be permanently impacted due to mass grading activities and retaining
wall construction, with the remaining land and natural resources on the parcel left undisturbed.
PROJECT SETTING
The project area consists of Assessor’s Parcel Number (APN) 8714-028-003 in the northwestern
quarter of the United States Geological Survey (USGS) Yorba Linda, California, 7.5-minute
topographic quadrangle map within Section 29, Township 2 South, Range 9 West (refer to Figure 1).
The “project area” discussed in this report refers to all areas within the project parcel boundary
(approximately 13 acres). “Project site” and “project development footprint” refer to all areas where
temporary and permanent ground disturbance would occur under the current site plans.
The project area consists of an approximately 13 acre undeveloped parcel situated on relatively flat
to steep hillside terrain that supports nonnative grassland as well as coast live oak (Quercus
agrifolia) and southern California black walnut (Juglans californica) woodland. Only the
westernmost portion of the parcel (approximately 3.59 acres) would be developed for residential
land uses under the proposed project. The parcel is surrounded by existing low-density residential
land uses to the north, east, and west, with undeveloped open space to the south. Much of the land
in the project vicinity was historically subject to longstanding livestock grazing and ranching
activities, which continues on the land to the south of the subject property. The Brea Canyon
Channel is located adjacent to the western portion of the project area, but there are no
jurisdictional aquatic resources, riparian areas, or wetlands present in the proposed development
footprint.
Based on a review of historic aerial imagery and observations made during the June 2019 site
surveys, large portions of the site have been maintained for vegetation control (fuel
modification/firebreaks) for at least 10 years, especially in areas within approximately 200 feet of
existing residences (although it appears several areas within the interior of the property have also
been maintained with regularity). Ground disturbance from disking activities and several
infrequently used dirt roads were observed during the June 2019 surveys. The existing dirt road on
the western portion of the site (within the proposed development footprint) was overgrown with
annual nonnative grassland vegetation during the June 2019 site surveys, indicating infrequent
use/maintenance. This existing dirt road would be graded and paved to facilitate a southward
expansion of Crooked Creek Drive under the proposed project. Figure 2 provides a high-resolution
aerial photograph of the project area taken in June 2019.
The westernmost portion of the parcel (within the proposed development footprint) is relatively
flat, with steep hilly terrain on the eastern portion of the property and gently rolling terrain on the
northern portion. Elevations on the parcel range from approximately 645 to 835 feet above mean
sea level.
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METHODS
LITERATURE REVIEW AND RECORDS SEARCH
LSA biologists conducted a literature review and records search on June 14, 2019 to identify the
existence and potential for occurrence of sensitive or special-status1 plant and animal species in the
vicinity of the project site. Federal and State lists of sensitive species were also examined. Current
electronic database records reviewed included the following:
California Natural Diversity Data Base information (CNDDB – RareFind 5), which is
administered by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), formerly known as the
California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG). This database covers sensitive plant and animal
species as well as sensitive natural communities that occur in California. Records from nine
USGS quadrangles surrounding the project area (Yorba Linda, Black Star Canyon, Orange,
Anaheim, Prado Dam, La Habra, Baldwin Park, San Dimas, and Ontario) were obtained from this
database to inform the field survey.
California Native Plant Society’s (CNPS) Electronic Inventory of Rare and Endangered Vascular
Plants, which utilizes four specific categories or “lists” of sensitive plant species to assist with
the conservation of rare or endangered botanical resources. All of the plants constituting
California Rare Plant Ranks (CRPR) 1A, 1B, 2A, and 2B are intended to meet the status definitions
of “threatened” or “endangered” in CESA and the California Department of Fish and Game Code,
and are considered by CNPS to be eligible for State listing. At the discretion of the CEQA Lead
Agency, impacts to these species may be analyzed as such, pursuant to the CEQA Guidelines
Sections 15125(c) and 15380. Plants in Rank 3 (limited information; review list), Rank 4 (limited
distribution; watch list), or that are considered Locally Unusual and Significant may be analyzed
under CEQA if there is sufficient information to assess potential significant impacts. Records
from the nine USGS quadrangles surrounding the project area were obtained from this database
to inform the field survey
United States Fish and Wildlife Service’s (USFWS) Information for Planning and Conservation
(IPaC) Online System, which lists all proposed, candidate, threatened, and endangered species
managed by the Endangered Species Program of the USFWS that have the potential to occur on
or near a particular site. This database also lists all known critical habitats, national wildlife
refuges, and migratory birds that could potentially be impacted by activities from a proposed
project. An IPaC Trust Resource Report (USFWS 2019a) was generated for the project area.
The USFWS Critical Habitat Mapper was reviewed to determine whether critical habitat has
been designated within or in the vicinity of the project area (USFWS 2019b).
1 For the purposed of this report, the term “special-status species” refers to those species that are listed or
proposed for listing under the CESA and/or FESA, California Fully Protected Species, plants with a CRPR of
1, 2, or 3, and California Species of Special Concern. It should be noted that “Species of Special Concern” is
an administrative designation made by the CDFW and carries no formal legal protection status. However,
Section 15380 of the CEQA Guidelines indicates that these species should be included in an analysis of
project impacts if they can be shown to meet the criteria of sensitivity outlined therein.
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The USFWS National Wetlands Inventory was reviewed to determine whether any wetlands or
surface waters of the United States have been previously identified in the project area (USFWS
2019c).
In addition to the databases listed above, historic and current aerial imagery, existing environmental
reports for developments in the project vicinity (including a 2002 Biological Assessment prepared for
the project area [Environmental & Regulatory Specialists, Inc., 2002] and associated Third Party
Biological Assessment Review [Pacific Southwest Biological Services, Inc., 2003), and regional habitat
conservation plans and local land use policies related to biological resources were reviewed.
FIELD SURVEYS
A general biological survey of the project area was conducted by LSA Senior Biologist Bo Gould on
June 16, 2019. The perimeter of the project site was surveyed on foot, and all biological resources
observed were noted. Suitable habitat for any species of interest or concern was duly noted, and
general site conditions were recorded. The field survey took place on a clear afternoon with weather
conditions conducive to the detection of plant and animal species. Mr. Gould also visited a nearby
reference population of intermediate mariposa lily (Calochortus weedii var. intermedius), a non-
listed rare plant species with a CRPR of 1B.2, to determine whether the species was blooming and
therefore detectible and identifiable during the planned follow-up botanical survey. Approximately
four (4) flowering intermediate mariposa lily individuals were observed at a previously-recorded
occurrence within 0.25 mile of the project area (near the coordinates 33.959655, -117.846091).
A focused botanical survey was conducted on the project site by LSA Senior Biologist Bo Gould on
June 20, 2019. The survey took place on a partly overcast morning with weather conditions
conducive to the detection of plant and animal species. The botanical survey was floristic in nature,
meaning that the site visit was appropriately timed to coincide with the blooming period of all
special-status plant species deemed to have potential to occur on the project site. The entire project
area was surveyed on foot and all plant species observed were identified to the lowest possible
taxonomic level and recorded. Vegetation communities and other land cover types existing within
the project area were mapped and photographed (refer to Appendix B for representative site
photographs). An additional previously-recorded occurrence of intermediate mariposa lily within
0.10 mile of the project area (near the coordinates 33.960291, -117.848890) was visited on June 20,
2019; several individuals were observed and in bloom at this location. In addition, vegetative,
budding, and flowering individuals of regional rare plant species within the genera Atriplex,
Calochortus, Dudleya, and Centromadia were observed by Mr. Gould in Orange and Los Angeles
Counties within the week prior to the June 20, 2019 botanical survey.
All wildlife species observed or otherwise detected (e.g., by scat, foot prints, or other sign) during
both surveys described above were recorded. An inventory of all plant and animal species observed
within the project area during the June 2019 surveys is contained in Appendix D.
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RESULTS
This section summarizes the environmental setting and provides further analysis of the data
collected in the field. Discussions regarding the existing project site conditions, soils, vegetation
communities, potentially occurring special-status biological resources, and habitat connectivity are
presented below.
The project area consists of an undeveloped 13 acre parcel with variable terrain supporting
nonnative grassland vegetation as well as mature coast live oak and southern California black walnut
woodland. A small area in the southwest of the project area contains a portion of the Brea Canyon
Channel (mapped as developed); however, this area is outside of the proposed project development
footprint. The proposed project development footprint is located to the south of existing single
family homes at the southern terminus of Crooked Creek Drive. Annual vegetation throughout a
large portion of the project area appears to be regularly maintained for fuel modification/firebreaks,
and there are no structures present on the site. The proposed project development footprint is
strictly upland in nature, and is located outside of the banks and associated riparian vegetation of
the Brea Canyon Channel, which is located southwest of the project limits.
Habitat within the proposed project development footprint is considered low quality with respect to
most of the special-status animal species identified during the literature review and is not expected
to support any special-status plant species (refer to Appendix C). An inventory of plant and animal
species observed during the June 2019 site surveys is provided in Appendix D.
The project area does not serve as a wildlife nursery or as a wildlife migration corridor. Further
details regarding specific biological resources are provided in the following subsections.
SOILS
According to the NRCS online soil survey of Los Angeles County and as shown on Figure 3 (Soils
Map), four soil types have been mapped within the project area (NRCS 2019). These soil types
include: Urban land-Sorrento-Arbolado complex, 2% to 9% slopes; Zaca-Apollo, warm complex, 20%
to 55% slopes; Mocho loam, 2% to 9% slopes; and Counterfeit-Urban land complex, 10% to 35%
slopes, terraced. These soil series are discussed in greater detail below.
Urban land-Sorrento-Arbolado complex, 2% to 9% slopes
Both the Sorrento and Arbolado series consists of very deep, well-drained soils that formed in
alluvium mostly from sedimentary rocks. This soil complex is mapped in high density urban
residential and recreational areas. Vegetation is mostly non-native and ornamental in urban areas
and annual grasses and forbs in natural areas, sometimes with sycamores along drainages. This soil
complex occurs within two areas along the northwestern borders of the project area.
Zaca-Apollo, warm complex, 20% to 55% slopes
This soil complex consists of well drained soils formed in material weathered from soft calcareous
shale and soft sandstone (Apollo Series), along with material from weakly consolidated marine
sediments (Zaca Series). Apollo soils are on low foothills adjacent to valley floors and have slopes of
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2 to 30 percent. Zaca soils are on gently rolling to very steep slopes. These soils are used for range,
dryland grain and beans, irrigated orchards, and for urban development. The native vegetation is
typically annual grasses and forbs. This soil complex is mapped throughout most of the project area.
Mocho loam, 2% to 9% slopes
The Mocho series consists of very deep, well drained soils that formed in alluvium derived mostly
from sandstone and shale rock sources. Mocho soils are on alluvial fans and have slopes of 0 to 9
percent. This soil series is mostly intensively used for forage, field crops, some fruit and dry areas
are sued for grain and range. Non-tilled areas typically support annual grasses and forbs. This soil
type is mapped within the southwestern portion of the project area.
Counterfeit-Urban land complex, 10% to 35% slopes, terraced
Counterfeit series consists of very deep soils that formed from human transported material which
originated from material weathered from calcareous sedimentary rocks. Counterfeit soils are on
man-made terraces and risers with slopes ranging up to 65 percent on risers. A small area along the
eastern project area boundary contains this artificial soil type (on the slope below existing
residential developments).
VEGETATION COMMUNITIES AND LAND COVER TYPES
The project area is strictly upland in nature with dominant vegetation consisting of disturbed,
annual brome grassland with stands of mature oak and walnut woodland. Several ornamental plant
species are found along the northern project area boundaries near existing residences. Ongoing soil
disturbance (e.g., disking) and the resulting competitive exclusion by invasive nonnative plants limit
the potential for native flora to occur within most of the project area.
The acreages of each vegetation community and land cover type occurring in the project area are
shown in Table A, below. Figure 4, Vegetation Map, provides a map of these vegetation and land
cover types within the project site disturbance limits. Representative photographs of the project site
are presented in Appendix B.
Table A: Vegetation and Land Cover Types Within the Project Area
Vegetation / Land Cover Type Acreage
Annual Brome Grassland 6.07
California Walnut Groves 3.42
Coast Live Oak Woodland 3.50
Developed 1 0.01
Total Project Area 13.00
1 Small inlet structure associated with Brea Canyon Channel at the south-westernmost portion of the project area, outside of the
proposed project development footprint.
A total of 49 vascular plant species were identified within the project area during the June 2019 field
surveys (refer to Appendix D). A total of 29 (approximately 59 percent) of these plant species
represent nonnative taxa, reflecting a high level of disturbance within the project area.
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Descriptions of the vegetation and land cover types occurring within the project area are listed
below, using the Manual of California Vegetation (MCV), Second Edition (Sawyer et. al. 2009). A
complete list of plant species identified within the project area is contained in Appendix D.
Annual Brome Grasslands: Areas classified as annual brome grassland within the project area are
dominated by nonnative brome grasses (Bromus spp.) and wild oats (Avena spp.), and support
sparse to dense cover by weedy or pioneering plant species in the herbaceous layer, including
shortpod mustard (Hirschfeldia incana), poison hemlock (Conium maculatum), Italian thistle
(Carduus pycnocephalus), and tocalote (Centaurea melitensis), among many others. Herbaceous
nonnative species are more prevalent within the internal portions of the project area. As previously
noted, areas mapped as annual brome grassland nearest to existing residential developments,
particularly along the northernmost boundary of the project area, appear to be regularly
cleared/disked for fuel modification/firebreaks. During the June 2019 surveys, emergent annual
brome grassland vegetation sparsely covered these areas; therefore, it was determined that these
areas function more as disturbed annual brome grassland (rather than purely disturbed/barren
land) for most of the year. An existing dirt road along the western portion of the project area was
overgrown with annual brome grassland vegetation at the time of the site survey and was mapped
using this classification. Several annual native species were detected with minimal cover in these
areas, including doveweed (Croton setigerus), common horseweed (Erigeron canadensis), and
arroyo lupine (Lupinus succulentus).
California Walnut Groves: Stands of mature southern California black walnut trees are present
within portions of the project area. The understory within these areas consists of annual brome
grassland vegetation with blue elderberry (Sambucus nigra ssp. caerulea), poison oak
(Toxicodendron diversilobum), and lemonade berry (Rhus integrifolia) also present in the larger
groves. Coast live oak trees are also present within these areas in low numbers.
Coast Live Oak Woodland: A contiguous stand of mature coast live oak woodland occurs within the
south-central portion of the project area; most of this woodland is located outside of the proposed
project development footprint. Mature coast live oak trees dominate this vegetation community,
and similar to the California walnut grove classification described above, the understory is mainly
made up of nonnative grasses and herbs, with poison oak and blue elderberry dominating the shrub
layer.
Developed: The project area includes small inlet structure associated with Brea Canyon Channel at
the south-westernmost portion of the project area, outside of the proposed project development
footprint. This 0.01 acre area was mapped as developed.
SPECIAL-STATUS BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES
Portions of southeastern Los Angeles County are known to support various special-status natural
communities, plants, and animals. Appendix C provides tables that identify those special-status plant
and animal species known to occur or that potentially occur in the vicinity of the project site (based
on the literature review and experience in the region) and includes detailed information about each
species’ habitat and distribution, State and Federal status designations, and probability of
occurrence on the project site. As stated in the methodology section above, the background
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research included occurrence records from nine USGS topographic quadrangles surrounding the
survey area. A nine USGS quadrangle search covers a large, variable geographic and topographic
area containing numerous habitat types not found within or around the project site. As such, many
of the species listed in Appendix C are not anticipated to occur on the project site due to historic and
ongoing anthropogenic disturbances and/or the lack of suitable habitat. Aquatic species that were
identified in the literature review were not included in Appendix C due to the lack of suitable aquatic
habitat (i.e., streams, lakes, marshes, etc.) within the project area.
The following subsections provide specific discussions for special-status natural communities, plant
and animal species, and habitats of concern (including critical habitat, jurisdictional aquatic
resources, wildlife movement corridors, and regional and local habitat conservation plans).
Special-Status Natural Communities
The CNDDB search identified occurrences of three special-status natural (i.e., plant) communities
within five miles of the project area (hereafter referred to as the “project vicinity”): California
Walnut Woodland, Southern California Coast Live Oak Riparian Forest, and Southern Willow Scrub.
California Walnut Woodland is present on the project site (mapped according the MVC convention
of “California Walnut Groves”). While Southern California Coast Live Oak Riparian Forest absent
from the project site (due to the lack of associations with riparian areas/riparian woodland habitat),
mature upland Coast Live Oak Woodland is often considered a special-status plant community by
CDFW and regional conservation organizations due to the historical loss of oak trees throughout
southern California associated with urbanization and other anthropogenic land uses. Furthermore,
the City Municipal Code designates all “native oak, walnut, sycamore, and willow trees with a
diameter at breast height (DBH) of eight inches or greater” as protected trees. As such, for the
purposes of this report, the mature Coast Live Oak Woodland within the project area is considered a
sensitive natural community.
No other special-status natural communities are present within the project area.
Special-Status Plants
The literature review identified 34 special-status plant species that are known to occur within a
nine-quadrangle radius of the project site (refer to Appendix C); only one of these species has been
documented in the project vicinity (intermediate mariposa lily). The majority of the rare plant
species that were identified in the databases have specialized habitat requirements (i.e., they occur
on predominantly alkaline soils, woodland, riparian, or wetland habitats, etc.) that do not occur
within the project site.
Historic anthropogenic disturbances have greatly altered the natural hydrologic regimes and have
either eliminated or greatly impacted the pre-settlement habitats needed to support the special-
status plant species identified in the CNDDB and CNPS queries. As such, the specific habitats, soil
substrates or “micro-climates” necessary for special-status plant species to occur are absent within
the boundaries of the project site. Based on site observations coupled with the results of the
focused botanical survey conducted on June 20, 2019 (and other biological surveys conducted on
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the subject property), no special-status plant species are expected to occur within the project area
and especially not within the proposed project development footprint.
Special-Status Animals
The historic and ongoing anthropogenic disturbances in the project site and adjacent parcels (i.e.,
disking, highways, and urban development, etc.) have greatly altered, eliminated, or impacted the
pre-settlement habitats needed to support most of the special-status animal species identified in
the CNDDB and USFWS queries (refer to Appendix C). There are no known occurrences of any
special-status animal species on the project site, and none were observed during the January 2019
field survey. Nonetheless, suitable habitat for several regionally occurring special-status species is
present adjacent to the project site and those species are listed below.
The following special-status species have been documented adjacent to the project site (e.g.,
within/associated with unlined portions of the Brea Canyon Channel): western pond turtle (Emys
marmorata), least Bell’s vireo (Vireo bellii pusillus), and yellow warbler (Lanius ludovicianus). While
these species are not expected to occur within the project area, indirect disturbances associated
with construction activities (e.g., increased noise and vibration) has potential to disrupt the typical
foraging and nesting activities of special-status bird species that have historically been documented
in these adjacent riparian habitat areas.
The project area contains suitable foraging and nesting habitat for various common and special-
status raptors such as white-tailed kite (Elanus leucurus), red-tailed hawk (Buteo jamaicensis), and
Cooper’s hawk (Accipiter cooperii). Red-tail hawk and Cooper’s hawk were observed perching within
mature oak trees and flying over the project area during the June 2019 surveys, although no active
nests were observed. Suitable nesting habitat for a variety of common bird species also occurs on
site. Birds and raptors are afforded special protections while nesting under the California Fish and
Game Code as well as the Federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act.
The evaluation of special-status animal species occurrence within and adjacent to the project site
was based on a habitat suitability analysis. It did not include exhaustive surveys to determine their
presence or absence, but did include direct observation of on-site and off-site conditions and a
review of the CNDDB records documenting recorded occurrence data from the area to conclude
whether or not a particular species could be expected to occur. Based on this analysis, it is unlikely
that the remaining special-status wildlife species listed in Appendix C occur within the project area
or immediately adjacent habitats.
Critical Habitat
There is no designated or proposed critical habitat for any species within the project area.
Jurisdictional Aquatic Resources
The proposed project development footprint is located entirely outside of jurisdictional aquatic
resources. Soils on site are well-drained and there are no depressional wetlands or other potentially
jurisdictional aquatic resources within the project site. Any potential discharges associated with the
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proposed residential development to Brea Canyon Channel would likely be regulated by the
Regional Water Quality Control Board.
Wildlife Movement and Habitat Connectivity
The project site is bound by existing developments to the north, east, and west. Given the isolated
and disturbed nature of the project site, it is unlikely that the site serves as an important corridor for
animals moving locally, regionally, or in broader migrations. Migratory bird species may utilize the
project site for foraging; however, the usage is likely transient and limited to species that forage
over open grassland areas. The project site does not possess any characteristics that would indicate
a locally significant stopover point for migratory species including raptors or waterfowl. No known
wildlife movement corridors occur within the project area.
Regional Habitat Conservation Plans and Local Policies
The project area is not located within lands covered under an existing Natural Communities
Conservation Plan or Habitat Conservation Plan.
As previously mentioned, the project area contains mature native oak and walnut trees designated
as protected under the City’s Municipal Code (Title 22, Article III, Chapter 22.38: Tree Preservation
and Protection). Trees within the subject property have been previously mapped by a qualified
arborist. Section 22.38.050 of the Municipal Code states the following:
No person shall remove or relocate a protected tree or develop within the protection
zone of a protected tree without first obtaining a tree removal permit from the
director. No person shall prune a protected tree without first obtaining a tree
pruning permit from the director if branches are to be pruned that are over four
inches in diameter at the point of the cut. The maximum amount allowed for the
pruning of a protected tree shall be 20 percent, except for oak trees which shall be
ten percent.
No other applicable regional or local policies pertaining to the biological resources covered herein
were identified.
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IMPACT FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDED AVOIDANCE AND MITIGATION
MEASURES
The following impact assessment and recommended avoidance and mitigation measures are
intended to support the CEQA review process. The project, as currently proposed by the Applicant,
coupled with LSA’s survey results, experience in the region, and review of biological literature,
provided the basis for this analysis. The impact discussion below addresses the range of impacts that
would result from the proposed project, as well as recommended measures that would avoid,
reduce, or compensate for such impacts.
SPECIAL-STATUS NATURAL COMMUNITIES
As shown on Figure 5, Impacts to Vegetation, the project (as currently proposed) would
permanently remove up to 0.11 acre of mature coast live oak woodland and up to 1.23 acres of
California walnut groves, which are considered sensitive natural communities. Trees occurring
adjacent to the grading limits could also be permanently impacted. If unmitigated, these impacts on
sensitive natural communities and protected trees would be considered potentially significant.
Therefore, Mitigation Measure BIO-1 is recommended to compensate for the loss of coast live oak
and southern California black walnut trees.
Mitigation Measure BIO-1 Tree Replacement and Preservation. Once project grading plans are
finalized and approved (and prior to ground disturbance on the
project site), an inventory of directly and indirectly affected trees
shall be determined either by referencing existing tree inventory
data collected on the subject property or by having a qualified
arborist conduct an assessment based on the final, approved limits
of development. The tree inventory will determine the species,
number, sizes, and health of all trees to be impacted by the
approved project, and will be used to determine compensation
ratios based on City requirements. Protected trees shall not be
removed or trimmed without proper City permits. A minimum 1-to-
1 planting-to-impact ratio is recommended for all native trees
greater than or equal to 8 inches DBH, or as otherwise required by
the City. A 3-to-1 planting-to-to impact ratio is recommended for
protected trees greater than or equal to 36 inches DBH.
Compensatory planting should be conducted within the portion of
the project area that would remain undeveloped under the
approved plans, or at an off-site location as approved by the City.
Existing oak and walnut woodland habitat located within the
undeveloped portions of the project area should be preserved.
With incorporation of Mitigation Measure BIO-1, impacts to existing special-status natural
communities in the project area, as well as locally-protected trees, would be effectively mitigated.
Impacts to special-status natural communities would be considered less than significant under
CEQA.
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SPECIAL-STATUS SPECIES
No special-status plant species are expected to occur within the project site or to be adversely
affected by the project.
Several special-status animal species (and nesting birds) have potential to be directly impacted
during vegetation removal and mass grading activities. In addition, several special-status animal
species have potential to be indirectly affected during construction activities through increased
noise, vibration, lighting, and dust. Such indirect disturbance has the potential to affect foraging
patterns and disorient special-status bird species that have the potential of occurring in adjacent
habitat areas. Increased anthropogenic disturbance and waste (e.g., litter) during and following
project construction could also attract predators of special-status species to the project vicinity.
Given that (1) the project is situated at a higher grade than the aquatic habitats associated with Brea
Canyon Channel, (2) there is spatial separation between proposed structures and existing riparian
habitat to the south of the project area, (3) the project is sited in close proximity to existing
residential developments, and (4) operational lighting would have minimal spill into adjacent
habitats, long-term significant indirect effects to special-status species are not anticipated.
Indirect temporary effects on hydrology and water quality could occur during construction. Such
effects include a potential increase in erosion and sediment transport into adjacent or downstream
aquatic areas. Chemical spills or leaks of fuel, transmission fluid, lubricating oil, or motor oil from
construction equipment could also contaminate waters and degrade their quality. These potential
indirect effects to hydrology and water quality would be avoided or substantially minimized through
the implementation of best management practices (BMPs), project design features, and a water
quality management plan and/or a storm water pollution and prevention plan (if required). As such,
significant indirect impacts to water quality—and any aquatic species occurring in adjacent aquatic
habitats—are not anticipated.
The project site contains suitable nesting habitat for ground-nesting birds and for other birds that
are protected while nesting. Riparian woodland adjacent to the project site serves as suitable
nesting habitat for various common and special-status bird species, including least Bell’s vireo.
Construction activities that occur during the nesting bird season (January 1 through September 15)
have potential to result in the direct or indirect take of nesting birds.
Potential direct and indirect impacts on special-status wildlife species would be considered
potentially significant. However, implementation of Mitigation Measures BIO-2 and BIO-3, as
summarized below, would effectively avoid or minimize any impacts on special-status wildlife
species and nesting birds.
Summary of Impacts: The project is located in close proximity to Brea Canyon Channel, which has
been documented as being occupied by several regional special-status species. While there is very
low potential for any of these special-status species to be directly affected by the project due to the
lack of suitable habitat on the project site, the project could indirectly affect special-status wildlife
species through the attraction of predators and increased levels of noise, vibration, lighting, and
dust during construction activities. There is also the potential for temporary indirect effects to water
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quality during construction, which could lead to habitat degradation. To avoid or minimize such
impacts, Mitigation Measures BIO-2 and BIO-3 are recommended.
Mitigation Measure BIO-2 Construction Site Housekeeping. Habitat subject to permanent and
temporary construction disturbances and other types of ongoing
project-related disturbance activities shall be minimized by adhering
to the following measures:
A. The project disturbance limits shall be clearly marked with
construction fencing (or other highly visible material), and
construction/materials staging and vehicle/equipment
maintenance and fueling areas shall be located at least 100 feet
away from Brea Canyon Channel, where feasible.
B. To minimize temporary disturbances, all project-related vehicle
traffic shall be restricted to established roads, construction
areas, and other designated areas.
C. Project-related vehicles shall observe a daytime speed limit of
20 miles per hour (mph) throughout the site in all project sites,
except on county roads and State and federal highways. Night-
time construction shall be minimized to the extent possible.
However if it does occur, then the speed limit shall be reduced
to 10 mph. Off-road traffic outside of designated project sites
shall be prohibited.
D. To prevent inadvertent entrapment of animals during the
construction phase of a project, all excavated, steep-walled
holes or trenches more than 2-feet deep shall be covered at the
close of each working day by plywood or similar materials. If the
trenches cannot be closed, one or more escape ramps
constructed of earthen-fill or wooden planks shall be installed.
Before such holes or trenches are filled, they shall be
thoroughly inspected for trapped animals. In the case of
trapped animals, escape ramps or structures shall be installed
immediately to allow the animal(s) to escape.
E. For the duration of construction activities, all food-related trash
items such as wrappers, cans, bottles, and food scraps shall be
disposed of in securely closed containers and removed at least
daily from the construction site.
F. Pets, such as dogs or cats, shall not be permitted on the project
site during construction to prevent harassment, injury, or death
of wildlife in the project vicinity.
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G. Use of rodenticides and herbicides in project sites shall be
restricted. This is necessary to prevent primary or secondary
poisoning of predators and the depletion of prey populations on
which they depend. All uses of such compounds shall observe
label and other restrictions mandated by the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency, California Department of
Food and Agriculture, and other State and federal legislation.
Construction site housekeeping measures would effectively minimize temporary construction
effects on sensitive biological resources by limiting construction equipment and personnel from
entering areas where special-status species may be impacted, limiting the potential for fuel or
chemical spills that could adversely impact water quality and adjacent aquatic habitats, minimizing
the disturbance area needed for construction access and related effects (i.e., dust, noise, vibration,
etc.), reducing the likelihood of attracting or introducing predators of special-status species, and by
preventing the primary or secondary poisoning of wildlife in the project vicinity.
Mitigation Measure BIO-4 Nesting Bird Surveys and Avoidance. If vegetation removal,
construction, or grading activities are planned to occur within the
active nesting bird season (January 1 through September 15), the
City shall confirm that the Applicant has retained a qualified
biologist who shall conduct a preconstruction nesting bird survey no
more than 3 days prior to the start of such activities. If construction
activities using heavy equipment (i.e., graders, bulldozers, and
excavators, etc.) continue through the nesting season, weekly
nesting bird surveys shall be conducted. Each nesting bird survey
shall include the work area and areas adjacent to the site (within
500 feet, as feasible) that could potentially be affected by project-
related activities such as noise, vibration, increased human activity,
and dust, etc. For any active nest(s) identified, the qualified biologist
shall establish an appropriate buffer zone around the active nest(s).
The appropriate buffer shall be determined by the qualified
biologist based on species, location, and the nature of the proposed
activities. Project activities shall be avoided within the buffer zone
until the nest is deemed no longer active, as determined by the
qualified biologist.
Successful avoidance of direct and indirect disturbance to nesting birds during construction would
ensure compliance with applicable provisions of the California Fish and Game Code, the Migratory
Bird Treaty Act, and other State and federal regulations that afford protections to nesting birds
(including species listed under the CESA and FESA, such as least Bell’s vireo).
With implementation of Mitigation Measures BIO-3 and BIO-4, impacts to special-status species
would be considered less than significant under CEQA.
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CRITICAL HABITAT
The project would not result in impacts to designated or proposed critical habitat.
JURISDICTIONAL AQUATIC RESOURCES
The proposed project would not result in any direct impacts to jurisdictional aquatic resources.
Indirect temporary effects could occur during construction, such as a potential increase in erosion
and sediment transport into adjacent or downstream aquatic areas. Chemical spills or leaks of fuel,
transmission fluid, lubricating oil, or motor oil from construction equipment could also contaminate
waters and degrade their quality. Mitigation Measure BIO-3, in addition to applicable BMPs and
implementation of required water quality plans, would avoid or reduce indirect impacts to
jurisdictional aquatic resources to a less than significant level, and no additional mitigation is
required.
WILDLIFE MOVEMENT AND HABITAT CONNECTIVITY
The wildlife species that occur in the project vicinity are adapted to the urban-wildland interface,
and the project would not introduce new affects to the area. The noise, vibration, light, dust, or
human disturbance within construction areas would only temporarily deter wildlife from using areas
in the immediate vicinity of construction activities. These indirect effects could temporarily alter
migration behaviors, territories, or foraging habitats in select areas. However, because these are
temporary effects, it is likely that wildlife already living and moving in close proximity to urban
development would alter their normal functions for the duration of the project construction and
then re-establish these functions once all temporary construction effects have been removed. The
proposed project would not place any permanent barriers within any known wildlife movement
corridors or interfere with habitat connectivity. The impact is considered less than significant, and
no additional mitigation is required.
REGIONAL HABITAT CONSERVATION PLANS AND LOCAL POLICIES
The project would not conflict with any adopted habitat conservation plan. As previously covered
(under Special-Status Natural Communities), project construction activities would result in the
removal of trees protected under local ordinances. Implementation of Mitigation Measure BIO-1
would ensure that the project would comply with local policies related to the protection and
conservation of protected trees. The impact is considered less than significant with mitigation
incorporated, and no additional measures are warranted.
CONCLUSION
The implementation of the recommended mitigation measures detailed herein would ensure
consistency local policies related to biological resources, and would reduce any potentially
significant impacts on special-status biological resources to less-than-significant levels. If substantial
project design changes occur, additional biological resources studies may be warranted to
accurately assess the scope of impacts and/or site conditions.
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REFERENCES
Baldwin, B.G., D.H. Goldman, D.J. Keil, R. Patterson, T.J. Rosatti, and D.H. Wilken, editors. 2012. The
Jepson manual: vascular plants of California, second edition. University of California Press,
Berkeley.
California Native Plant Society (CNPS). 2019. Inventory of Rare and Endangered Plants (online edition
v8). Website: http://cnps.org/cnps/rareplants/inventory/. June 2019.
California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW). 2018. California Natural Diversity Data Base
(CNDDB). Special Animals List. November 2018. Periodic publication. 67 pp.
______. 2019. State of California, Department of Fish and Wildlife Biogeographic Data Branch.
California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB). Rarefind Version 5. January 2019. Rarefind
query of the USGS 7.5-minute quads nine-quadrangle review area – Yorba Linda, Black Star
Canyon, Orange, Anaheim, Prado Dam, La Habra, Baldwin Park, San Dimas, and Ontario,
and GIS query of occurrences within a 5-mile buffer (project vicinity).
Environmental & Regulatory Specialists, Inc., 2002. Biological Assessment for the Jewel Ridge Estates
Project, City of Diamond Bar, Los Angeles County, California. Technical report prepared for
Jewel Ridge Estates, LLC. November.
Google Earth. 2019. Current and historical aerial photographs.
Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS). 2019. Web Soil Survey. Available at
http://websoilsurvey.nrcs.usda.gov/app/WebSoilSurvey.aspx.
Pacific Southwest Biological Services, Inc., 2003. Third Party Biological Assessment of the Jewel
Ridge Estates Property, City of Diamond Bar, Los Angeles County. Peer review memorandum
prepared for the City of Diamond Bar. November.
Sawyer, J., T. Keeler-Wolf, and J. Evans. 2009. A Manual of California Vegetation. Second edition.
California Native Plant Society. Sacramento, California: California Native Plant Society. 1,300
pp.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 2019a. Environmental Conservation Online System (ECOS).
Information for Planning and Conservation (IPaC) Trust Resources Report. June 2019.
Website: http://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/.
______. 2019b. USFWS Critical Habitat Mapper. Website: http://ecos.fws.gov/crithab/. February
2018.
______. 2019c. USFWS National Wetlands Inventory (NWI), Online Mapper Tool. Website:
https://www.fws.gov/wetlands/data/mapper.html.
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APPENDIX A
FIGURES
SOURCE: USGS 7.5' Quad., Yorba Linda, CA (1981)
I:\CVD1901\GIS\MXD\ProjectLocation.mxd (7/12/2019)
FIGURE 1
Crooked Creek Diamond Bar DevelopmentRegional and Project Location
0 1000 2000
FEET
LEGEND
Project Parcel Boundary
ProjectLocation
SanBernardinoCounty
OrangeCounty
LosAngelesCounty
ÃÃ142
ÃÃ1
ÃÃ19
ÃÃ72
ÃÃ241
ÃÃ90
ÃÃ55
ÃÃ22
ÃÃ39
ÃÃ71
ÃÃ91
ÃÃ60
ÃÃ57§¨¦105
§¨¦10
§¨¦405
§¨¦210
§¨¦5§¨¦605
§¨¦10
Project Vicinity
!!!!!!!!!!RUNNINGBRANCHSILVER BULLET
CASTLE ROCKCROOKED CREEK1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9 10BREACANYONRDÄÆ57
SOURCE: Nearmap (06/2019)
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FIGURE 2
Crooked Creek Diamond Bar DevelopmentProject Location
LEGEND
Project Parcel Boundary
!Photo Locations
0 100 200
FEET
RUNNINGBRANCHSILVE
R
B
U
L
L
E
T
CASTLE ROCKCROOKED CREEK1232
167oc
1141
1136
1136
1136BREACANYONRDÄÆ57
SOURCE: NRCS Soil Survey (CA696 2017); Nearmap (06/2019)
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FIGURE 3
Crooked Creek Diamond Bar DevelopmentSoils Map
LEGEND
Project Parcel Boundary Soil Type
1136 - Urban land-Sorrento-Arbolado complex, 2% to 9% slopes
1141 - Zaca-Apollo, warm complex, 20% to 55% slopes
1232 - Counterfeit-Urban land complex, 10% to 35% slopes, terraced
167oc - Mocho loam, 2% to 9% slopes
0 100 200
FEET
RUNNINGBRANCHSILVE
R
B
U
L
L
E
T
CASTLE ROCKCROOKED CREEKBREACANYONRDÄÆ57
SOURCE: Nearmap (06/2019)
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FIGURE 4
Crooked Creek Diamond Bar DevelopmentVegetation Map
LEGEND
Project Parcel Boundary Vegetation Type
Annual Brome Grasslands (6.07 Ac)
California Walnut Groves (3.42 Ac)
Coast Live Oak Woodland (3.50 Ac)
Developed (0.01 Ac)
0 100 200
FEET
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
Fire DepartmentTurnaround Access
Slope Contouring Area RUNNINGBRANCHSILVE
R
B
U
L
L
E
T
CASTLE ROCKCROOKED CREEKBREACANYONRDÄÆ57
SOURCE: Nearmap (06/2019)
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FIGURE 5
Crooked Creek Diamond Bar DevelopmentVegetation Impact Map
LEGEND
Project Parcel Boundary
Preliminary Site Plan
Preliminary Grading Limits*
Vegetation Within Grading Limits
Annual Brome Grasslands (2.25 Ac)
California Walnut Groves (1.23 Ac)
Coast Live Oak Woodland (0.11 Ac)0 100 200
FEET
* Limits are approximationsbased on preliminary site plansand are subject to refinement
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APPENDIX B
REPRESENTATIVE SITE PHOTOS
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Representative Site Photographs
Crooked Creek Diamond Bar Development
APPENDIX B
1.PhototakenfacingsouthwestatthesouthernendofCrookedCreekDrive.
Theexistingroadwouldbeextendedintotheareashownandupto11new
residential lots would be created under the proposed project (based on
preliminarysiteplans).PhototakenJune20,2019.
2.Photo taken facing east near the southern end of Crooked Creek Drive.
Note that annual brome grassland vegetation adjacent to existing homes
appears to be regularly maintained for fuel modification purposes. Some
mature California walnut trees and coast live oak trees would be removed
under the proposed preliminary site plans for construction of new homes,
roads,andretainingwalls.PhototakenJune20,2019.
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Representative Site Photographs
Crooked Creek Diamond Bar Development
APPENDIX B
3.Photo taken near the southernmost portion of the preliminary
development footprint, facing north. Most of the area shown would be
permanently impacted during road and home construction under the
preliminarysiteplans.PhototakenJune20,2019.
4.Overview of the southern portion of the preliminary development
footprintandlargeopenspaceareaexistingfurthersouth.Phototakenfrom
the interior of the southwestern portion of the parcel, on a slope facing
southwest.PhototakenJune20,2019.
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Representative Site Photographs
Crooked Creek Diamond Bar Development
APPENDIX B
5.Phototakenfacingsouthnearthebacksideof3722CrookedCreekDrive.
Theareaintheforegroundisproposedtobedevelopedandmaintainedasa
Fire Department access turnaround under the preliminary site plans.
Annual vegetation in this area appears to be regularly maintained for fuel
modification purposes. The majority of coast live oak woodland and
California walnut groves shown in the background (left) would be retained
underpreliminarysiteplans.PhototakenJune20,2019.
6.View of coast live oak woodland near the central portion of the parcel.
This area would remain undisturbed under preliminary site plans. Photo
takenJune20,2019.
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Representative Site Photographs
Crooked Creek Diamond Bar Development
APPENDIX B
7.Photo taken facing west near the northeastern corner of the project
parcel.Annualvegetationinthisareaappearstoberegularlymaintainedfor
fuel modification purposes. This area would remain undisturbed under
preliminarysiteplans.PhototakenJune20,2019.
8.Overview of the central portion of the project parcel. Photo taken facing
southwest near the eastern parcel boundary. The vast majority of the area
shownwouldremainundisturbedunderpreliminarysiteplans.Phototaken
June20,2019.
Page 4 of 5
I:\CVD1901\G\Site_Photos_5pg.cdr (7/11/2019)
Representative Site Photographs
Crooked Creek Diamond Bar Development
APPENDIX B
9.Photo taken facing northeast from the central portion of the project
parcel.ThesematurecoastliveoaktreesandCaliforniawalnutgroveswould
remain undisturbed under preliminary site plans. Photo taken June 20,
2019.
10.Photo taken facing east from the central portion of the project parcel.
This mature coast live oak woodland would remain undisturbed under
preliminarysiteplans.PhototakenJune20,2019.
Page 5 of 5
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19
APPENDIX C
SPECIAL-STATUS SPECIES IDENTIFIED AS POTENTIALLY
OCCURRING IN THE PROJECT VICINITY
B IOLOGICAL R ESOURCES A SSESS MENT
J ULY 2019
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C-1
Table C-1: Special-Status Plant Species Identified as Potentially Occurring or Known to Occur in the Project Vicinity
Common Name Scientific Name Status General Habitat Description Flowering Period
Likelihood of Occurrence on the Project Site and
Rationale
chaparral sand-
verbena
Abronia villosa var.
aurita
US: -
CA: S2
CNPS: 1B.1
Annual herb. Occurs on sandy soils
in chaparral, coastal scrub, and
desert dune habitats between 75
and 1600 m in elevation.
January - September Not Expected. There are no known occurrences in
the project vicinity1 and suitable habitat is absent
on the project site.
Braunton's milk-
vetch
Astragalus
brauntonii
US: FE
CA:-
CNPS: 1B.1
Perennial herb. Occurs in
chaparral, coastal scrub, Valley and
foothill grassland in recent burns
or disturbed areas, usually
sandstone with carbonate layers
between 4 and 640 m in elevation.
January-August Not Expected. There are no known occurrences in
the project vicinity and suitable habitat is absent
on the project site.
Coulter’s saltbush Atriplex coulteri US: -
CA: S1/S2
CNPS: 1B.2
Perennial herb. Occurs on alkaline
or clay soils in coastal dune,
coastal scrub, and valley and
foothill grassland habitats up to
460 m in elevation.
March-October Not Expected. There are no known occurrences in
the project vicinity and suitable habitat is absent
on the project site.
Parish's
brittlescale
Atriplex parishii US: -
CA: S1
CNPS: 1B.1
Annual herb. Occurs on alkaline
soils in playas, vernal pools, and
chenopod scrub habitats between
25 and 1,900 m in elevation.
June-October Not Expected. There are no known occurrences in
the project vicinity and suitable habitat is absent
on the project site.
Davidson's
saltscale
Atriplex serenana
var. davidsonii
US: -
CA: S1
CNPS: 1B.2
Annual herb. Found on alkaline
soils in coastal bluff scrub and
coastal scrub up to 200 m in
elevation.
April–October Not Expected. There are no known occurrences in
the project vicinity and suitable habitat is absent
on the project site.
Malibu baccharis Baccharis
malibuensis
US:-
CA:-
CNPS: 1B.1
Perennial deciduous shrub. Found
in Chaparral, Cismontane
woodland, Coastal scrub, Riparian
woodland between 150 and 305 m
elevation.
August Absent. This perennial shrub was not detected
during the focused botanical survey conducted in
June 2019.
Nevin's barberry Berberis nevinii US: FE
CA: CE
CNPS: 1B.1
Perennial evergreen shrub. Occurs
on sandy or gravelly soils in
chaparral, cismontane woodland,
coastal scrub, and riparian scrub
habitats from 70 to 825 m in
elevation.
February-June Absent. This perennial evergreen shrub was not
detected during the focused botanical survey
conducted in June 2019.
B IOLOGICAL R ESOURCES A SSESS MENT
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C-2
Table C-1: Special-Status Plant Species Identified as Potentially Occurring or Known to Occur in the Project Vicinity
Common Name Scientific Name Status General Habitat Description Flowering Period
Likelihood of Occurrence on the Project Site and
Rationale
intermediate
mariposa lily
Calochortus weedii
var. intermedius
US: -
CA: S2
CNPS: 1B.2
Perennial bulbiferous herb. Occurs
in chaparral, coastal scrub, and
valley and foothill grassland. Often
in dry, rocky soils. From 120 to
855 m in elevation.
May–July Not expected. There are multiple occurrence
records within one mile of the project site. The
June 2019 botanical survey included a focused
effort to detect this species, and reference
populations were visited to ensure the species
was in bloom at the time of the botanical survey;
no individuals were found and suitable habitat is
absent on the project site.
lucky morning-
glory
Calystegia felix US: -
CA: S1
CNPS: 1B.1
Annual rhizomatous herb. Occurs
in meadows, seeps, and alluvial
riparian scrub habitats (sometimes
alkaline soils) up to 215 m in
elevation.
March-September Not expected. There are no known occurrences in
the vicinity of the project site and suitable habitat
is absent on the project site. The species was not
detected during the botanical survey conducted
within the species’ typical blooming period.
Lewis’ evening-
primrose
Camissoniopsis
lewisii
US: -
CA: S4
CNPS: 3
Annual herb. Occurs on sandy and
clay soils in coastal scrub,
cismontane woodland, and
grassland habitats up to 300 m in
elevation.
May-November Not expected. There are no known occurrences in
the vicinity of the project site and suitable habitat
is absent on the project site. The species was not
detected during the botanical survey conducted
within the species’ typical blooming period.
southern tarplant Centromadia parryi
ssp. Australis
US: -
CA: S2
CNPS: 1B.1
Annual herb. Occurs in vernal
pools, margins of marshes and
swamps, and vernally mesic valley
and foothill grasslands, sometimes
with saltgrass on alkaline soils. Up
to 427 m in elevation.
May-November Not expected. There are no known occurrences in
the vicinity of the project site and suitable habitat
is absent on the project site. The species was not
detected during the botanical survey conducted
within the species’ typical blooming period.
Smooth tarplant Centromadia
pungens ssp. laevis
US: -
CA: -
CNPS: 1B.1
Annual herb found in Chenopod
scrub, Meadows and seeps, Playas,
Riparian woodland, Valley and
foothill grassland in alkaline soils
between 0 and 640 m elevation.
April-September Not expected. There are no known occurrences in
the vicinity of the project site and suitable habitat
is absent on the project site. The species was not
detected during the botanical survey conducted
within the species’ typical blooming period.
San Fernando
Valley spineflower
Chorizanthe parryi
var. fernandina
US: FC
CA: CE
CNPS: 1B.1
Annual herb of sandy soils in
coastal scrub and valley and
foothill grasslands between 150 to
1220 m in elevation.
April–July Not expected. There are no known occurrences in
the vicinity of the project site and suitable habitat
is absent on the project site. The species was not
detected during the botanical survey conducted
within the species’ typical blooming period.
B IOLOGICAL R ESOURCES A SSESS MENT
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C-3
Table C-1: Special-Status Plant Species Identified as Potentially Occurring or Known to Occur in the Project Vicinity
Common Name Scientific Name Status General Habitat Description Flowering Period
Likelihood of Occurrence on the Project Site and
Rationale
Parry’s
spineflower
Chorizanthe parryi
var. parryi
US: -
CA: -
CNPS: 1B.1
Annual herb found in Chaparral,
Cismontane woodland, Coastal
scrub, Valley and foothill grassland
in sandy or rocky openings
between 275 and 1220 m in
elevation.
April-June Not expected. There are no known occurrences in
the vicinity of the project site and suitable habitat
is absent on the project site. The species was not
detected during the botanical survey conducted
within the species’ typical blooming period.
Long-spined
spineflower
Chorizanthe
polygonoides var.
longispina
US: -
CA: -
CNPS: 1B.2
Annual herb. Habitat types include
chaparral, coastal sage scrub,
meadows and seeps, valley and
foothill grassland, and vernal
pools. Often occurs in clay soils
between 100 ft and 5,019 ft in
elevation.
April–July Not expected. There are no known occurrences in
the vicinity of the project site and suitable habitat
is absent on the project site. The species was not
detected during the botanical survey conducted
within the species’ typical blooming period.
California
sawgrass
Cladium
californicum
US:-
CA: -
CNPS: 1B.1
Perennial rhizomatous herb.
Occurs in meadows and seeps,
marshes and swamps in Alkaline or
Freshwater environments. Found
between 60 and 1600 m elevation.
June-September Not expected. There are no known occurrences in
the vicinity of the project site and suitable habitat
is absent on the project site. The species was not
detected during the botanical survey conducted
within the species’ typical blooming period.
slender-horned
spineflower
Dodecahema
leptoceras
US: FE
CA: CE
CNPS: 1B.1
Annual herb found in Chaparral,
Cismontane woodland, Coastal
scrub in alluvial fan sandy soils
between 200 an 760 m elevation.
April-June Not expected. There are no known occurrences in
the vicinity of the project site and suitable habitat
is absent on the project site. The species was not
detected during the botanical survey conducted
within the species’ typical blooming period.
many-stemmed
dudleya
Dudleya multicaulis US: -
CA: S2
CNPS: 1B.2
Perennial herb. Occurs in
chaparral, coastal scrub, and valley
and foothill grassland usually in
heavy, often clayey soils. From 45
to 2,370 ft in elevation.
April–July Not expected. There are no known occurrences in
the vicinity of the project site and suitable habitat
is absent on the project site. This perennial
species was not detected during the botanical
survey conducted within the species’ typical
blooming period.
Santa Ana River
woollystar
Eriastrum
densifolium ssp. san
ctorum
US: FE
CA: CE
CNPS: 1B.1
Perennial herb. Occurs on sandy
substrates within chaparral and
alluvial fan scrub habitats between
91 and 610 m in elevation.
April-September Not expected. There are no known occurrences in
the vicinity of the project site and suitable habitat
is absent on the project site. The species was not
detected during the botanical survey conducted
within the species’ typical blooming period.
B IOLOGICAL R ESOURCES A SSESS MENT
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C-4
Table C-1: Special-Status Plant Species Identified as Potentially Occurring or Known to Occur in the Project Vicinity
Common Name Scientific Name Status General Habitat Description Flowering Period
Likelihood of Occurrence on the Project Site and
Rationale
vernal barley Hordeum
intercedens
US:
CA: S3/S4
CNPS: 3.2
Annual herb. Occurs in coastal
dunes, coastal scrub, Valley and
foothill grassland (saline flats and
depressions), and vernal pools
between 5 and 1000 m in
elevation.
March-June Not expected. There are no known occurrences in
the vicinity of the project site and suitable habitat
is absent on the project site.
mesa horkelia Horkelia cuneata
var. puberula
US: -
CA: S1
CNPS: 1B.1
Perennial herb. Occurs on sandy
and gravelly soils in chaparral,
cismontane woodland, coastal
scrub habitats between 70 and 810
m in elevation.
February-September Not expected. There are no known occurrences in
the vicinity of the project site and suitable habitat
is absent on the project site. This perennial
species was not detected during the botanical
survey conducted within the species’ typical
blooming period.
Coulter's
goldfields
Lasthenia glabrata
ssp. coulteri
US: -
CA: S2
CNPS: 1B.1
Annual herb. Occurs in marshes
and swamps, playas, and vernal
pools up to 1220 m in elevation.
February–June Not expected. There are no known occurrences in
the vicinity of the project site and suitable habitat
is absent on the project site.
heart-leaved
pitcher sage
Lepechinia
cardiophylla
US: -
CA: -
CNPS: 1B.2
Perennial shrub found in closed-
cone coniferous forest, chaparral,
Cismontane woodland between
520 and 1370 m elevation.
April-July Not Expected. There are no known occurrences in
the vicinity and suitable habitat is absent on the
project site. The project site is outside of the
known elevation range.
Jokerst’s
monardella
Monardella
australis ssp.
jokerstii
US: -
CA: -
CNPS: 1B.1
Perennial rhizomatous herb found
in Chaparral, Lower montane
coniferous forest in Steep scree or
talus slopes between breccia,
secondary alluvial benches along
drainages and washes. Occurs
between 1350 and 1750 m
elevation.
July-September Not Expected. There are no known occurrences in
the vicinity and suitable habitat is absent on the
project site. The project site is outside of the
known elevation range.
Intermediate
monardella
Monardella
hypoleuca ssp.
intermedia
US: -
CA: -
CNPS: 1B.2
Perennial rhizomatus herb. Usually
found in understory. Habitat types
include chaparral, cismontane
woodland, lower montane
coniferous forest. Elevation from
1,312 ft to 4,101 ft.
April– September Not Expected. There are no known occurrences in
the vicinity and suitable habitat is absent on the
project site. The project site is outside of the
known elevation range.
B IOLOGICAL R ESOURCES A SSESS MENT
J ULY 2019
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C-5
Table C-1: Special-Status Plant Species Identified as Potentially Occurring or Known to Occur in the Project Vicinity
Common Name Scientific Name Status General Habitat Description Flowering Period
Likelihood of Occurrence on the Project Site and
Rationale
prostrate vernal
pool navarretia
Navarretia
prostrata
US: -
CA: S2
CNPS: 1B.1
Annual herb. Occurs on mesic soils
in coastal scrub, meadows and
seeps, vernal pools, and valley and
foothill grassland habitats between
3 and 1,210 m in elevation.
April–July Not expected. There are no known occurrences in
the vicinity of the project site and suitable habitat
is absent on the project site. The species was not
detected during the botanical survey conducted
within the species’ typical blooming period.
Chaparral nolina Nolina cismontana US: -
CA: -
CNPS: 1B.2
Perennial evergreen shrub. Habitat
type includes chaparral and coastal
scrub. Occurs on sandstone or
gabbro soils between 140 and
1275 m in elevation.
March–July Absent. This perennial evergreen shrub was not
detected during the focused botanical survey
conducted in June 2019.
California
beardtongue
Penstemon
californicus
US: -
CA: -
CNP 1B.2S:
Perennial herb found in chaparral,
Lower montane coniferous forest,
Pinyon and juniper woodland
between 1170 and 2300 m
elevation in sandy soils.
May-August Not Expected. There are no known occurrences in
the vicinity and suitable habitat is absent on the
project site. The project site is outside of the
known elevation range.
Allen's
pentachaeta
Pentachaeta aurea
ssp. allenii
US: -
CA: S1
CNPS: 1B.1
Annual herb. Occurs in chaparral
and coastal scrub openings and
valley grassland habitats from 75
to 520 m in elevation.
March-June Not expected. There are no known occurrences in
the vicinity of the project site and suitable habitat
is absent on the project site. The species was not
detected during the botanical survey conducted
within the species’ typical blooming period.
south coast
branching
phacelia
Phacelia
ramosissima var.
austrolitoralis
US: -
CA: -
CNPS: 3.2
Perennial herb found in chaparral,
coastal dunes, coastal scrub,
marshes and swamps (coastal salt)
between 5 and 300 m elevation in
sandy and rocky soils.
March-August Not expected. There are no known occurrences in
the vicinity of the project site and suitable habitat
is absent on the project site. The species was not
detected during the botanical survey conducted
within the species’ typical blooming period..
white rabbit-
tobacco
Pseudognaphalium
leucocephalum
US: -
CA: -
CNPS: 2B.S
Perennial herb found in chaparral,
cismontane woodland, coastal
scrub,and riparian woodland
between 0 and 2100 m elevation in
sandy, gravelly soils.
July-November Not expected. There are no known occurrences in
the vicinity of the project site and suitable habitat
is absent on the project site.
chaparral ragwort Senecio aphanactis US: -
CA: S2
CNPS: 2B.2
Annual herb. Sometimes occurs on
alkaline soils. Occurs in chaparral,
cismontane, and coastal scrub
habitats between 15 and 800 m in
elevation.
January–April Not expected. There are no known occurrences in
the vicinity of the project site and suitable habitat
is absent on the project site.
B IOLOGICAL R ESOURCES A SSESS MENT
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C-6
Table C-1: Special-Status Plant Species Identified as Potentially Occurring or Known to Occur in the Project Vicinity
Common Name Scientific Name Status General Habitat Description Flowering Period
Likelihood of Occurrence on the Project Site and
Rationale
salt spring
checkerbloom
Sidalcea
neomexicana
US: -
CA: S2
CNPS: 2B.2
Perennial herb found in alkaline
and mesic soils within chaparral,
coastal scrub, lower montane
coniferous forest, Mojavean desert
scrub, and playas from 15 to 1530
m in elevation.
March-June Not expected. There are no known occurrences in
the vicinity of the project site and suitable habitat
is absent on the project site.
San Bernardino
aster
Symphyotrichum
defoliatum
US: -
CA: S2
CNPS: 1B.2
Perennial rhizomatous herb.
Occurs near ditches, springs, and
streams in cismontane woodland,
coastal scrub, lower montane
coniferous forest, meadows and
seeps, mashes and swamps, and
grasslands between 2 and 2,040 m
in elevation.
July–November Not expected. There are no known occurrences in
the vicinity of the project site and suitable habitat
is absent on the project site.
1Project vicinity = project site plus a 5-mile buffer
Status: Federal Endangered (FE), Federal Threatened (FT), Federal Candidate (FC), Federal Proposed (FP, FPE, FPT), Federal Delisted (FD), California Endangered (CE), California Threatened (CT),
California Species of Special Concern (SSC), California Fully Protected Species (CFP), California Special Plant (CSP), California Special Animal (CSA), NCCP Identified Species (IS), NCCP Target Species
(TS), NCCP Conditionally Covered Species (CCS), S1 = Critically Imperiled, S2 = Imperiled, S3 = Vulnerable, S4 = Apparently Secure
CNPS Designations:
1B = Rare threatened, or endangered in California and elsewhere
2B = Rare, threatened, or endangered in California, but not
elsewhere
3 = Not very endangered in California
4 = Plants of Limited Distribution – Watch List
Abbreviation/Acronym Definitions:
CA = California
CNDDB = California Natural Diversity Database
CNPS = California Native Plant Society
ft = foot/feet
US = United States
B IOLOGICAL R ESOURCES A SSESS MENT
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C-7
Table C-2: Special-Status Animal Species Identified as Potentially Occurring or Known to Occur in the Project Vicinity
Common Name Scientific Name Status
Listing Habitat and Comments Likelihood of Occurrence on the Project
Site and Rationale
INVERTEBRATES
San Diego fairy
shrimp
Branchinecta
sandiegonensis
US: FE
CA: -
Endemic to vernal pools in Orange and San Diego Counties. Usually
appears in late fall, winter, and spring when rains fill the small, shallow,
seasonal pools.
Not Expected. There are no occurrence
records in the project vicinity and
suitable habitat is absent from the
project site.
quino checkerspot
butterfly
Euphydryas editha
quino
US: FE
CA: -
Meadows or openings within coastal sage scrub or chaparral below
about 5,000 feet where food plants (Plantago erecta and/or
Orthocarpus purpurascens) are present. Currently known only from
southwestern Riverside County, southern San Diego County, and
northern Baja California.
Not Expected. There are no known
occurrences of this species in the project
vicinity and food plants are absent from
the project site.
AMPHIBIANS
Northern leopard
frog
Lithobates pipiens US:
CA: SSC
Aquatic habitats with permanent or semi-permanent water, submerged
and emergent aquatic vegetation, and shoreline cover. Native range is
east of the Sierra Nevada/Cascade crest. Not native to southern
California.
Not Expected. There are no known
occurrences of this species in the project
vicinity and suitable aquatic habitat is
absent from the project site.
Western spadefoot Spea hammondii US: -
CA: SSC
Occurs primarily in grassland and other relatively open habitats. Found
in elevations ranging from sea level to 4,500 ft. Requires temporary
pools for breeding.
Not expected. There are no known
occurrences in project vicinity and
suitable seasonal pond habitat is absent
from the project site.
Coast Range newt Taricha torosa US: -
CA: SSC
Associated with woodlands that are often interspersed with grasslands
and chaparral. Breeding takes place in streams, ponds, lakes, and
reservoirs. Breeding takes place from December to May. Estivation
occurs in underground retreats and perhaps in rotting logs from July to
early fall.
Not Expected. There are no known
occurrences of this species in the project
vicinity and suitable aquatic breeding
habitat is absent from the project site.
REPTILES
Glossy snake Arizona elegans US: -
CA: SSC
Found in a wide variety of habitats types, including open desert, grass
land, shrublands, chaparrals, and woodlands. Records show that this
species occurs in relatively open patches in a surrounding matrix of
denser vegetation.
Low. There are no known occurrences in
the project vicinity but there is
marginally suitable habitat on the
project site.
Southern California
legless lizard
Anniella stebbinsi US: -
CA: SSC
Found in wide variety of habitat types, including sandy washes, alluvial
fans, sparsely vegetated desert scrub, chaparral, and pine-oak
woodlands. Requires moisture and leaf litter/surface objects. Most
prevalent in coastal dune habitats in coastal counties to Baja California.
Low. There are no known occurrences in
the project vicinity but there is
marginally suitable habitat on the
project site.
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C-8
Table C-2: Special-Status Animal Species Identified as Potentially Occurring or Known to Occur in the Project Vicinity
Common Name Scientific Name Status
Listing Habitat and Comments Likelihood of Occurrence on the Project
Site and Rationale
Red diamond
rattlesnake
Crotalus ruber US: -
CA: SSC
Associated with chaparral, woodland, grassland, and desert
communities from Los Angeles County to Baja California Sur. Prefers
rocky areas with dense vegetation. Needs rodent burrows, cracks in
rocks, or surface cover objects for shelter.
Moderate. This species is known to
occur in the immediate project vicinity
and some suitable habitat is present on
the project site.
Western pond
turtle
Emys marmorata US: -
CA: SSC
Occurs in a variety of habitats, including woodland, grassland, and open
forest. Thoroughly aquatic, existing in good-quality ponds, marshes,
rivers, streams, and irrigation ditches that have rocky or muddy
bottoms. Requires basking sites such as partially submerged logs,
vegetation mats, or open mud banks.
Not expected. While there are known
occurrences in the vicinity of the project
site, suitable aquatic habitat is absent
from the project site.
Coast horned lizard Phrynosoma
blainvillii
US: -
CA: SSC
Occurs in CSS, open chaparral, riparian woodland, and annual grassland
habitats that support adequate prey species.
Low. There are historical occurrences in
the project vicinity, but habitat is
marginal on the project site.
Coast patch-nosed
snake
Salvadora hexalepis
virgultea
US: -
CA: SSC
Occupies desert scrub, coastal chaparral, washes, sandy flats, and rocky
areas.
Low. There is a historical occurrence
record in the project vicinity, but habitat
is marginal on the project site.
Two-striped garter
snake
Thamnophis
hammondii
US: -
CA: SSC
Aquatic-feeding specialist, inhabiting permanent and intermittent
drainages of the seasonally arid regions of southwest California. Prefers
watercourses with good riparian stands, feeds on aquatic invertebrates.
Not Expected. There are no known
occurrences of this species in the project
vicinity and suitable aquatic breeding
habitat is absent from the project site.
BIRDS
Tricolored blackbird
(nesting colony)
Agelaius tricolor US: -
CA: SSC
Highly colonial nester largely endemic to California. Most numerous in
the Central Valley and vicinity. Requires open water, protected nesting
substrate, and a foraging area with insect prey within a few kilometers
of the colony.
Not Expected. While there is one
nonspecific historic occurrence record in
the project vicinity, no nesting colonies
have been recorded in the project
vicinity and suitable nesting habitat is
absent from the project site.
Grasshopper
sparrow (nesting)
Ammodramus
savannarum
US: -
CA: SSC
Occurs in dense grasslands, preferring native grasslands with a mixture
of forbs and shrubs.
Low. There is a historic occurrence
record in the project vicinity, but the
disturbed nonnative grassland on the
project site is considered to be only
marginally suitable for this species.
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C-9
Table C-2: Special-Status Animal Species Identified as Potentially Occurring or Known to Occur in the Project Vicinity
Common Name Scientific Name Status
Listing Habitat and Comments Likelihood of Occurrence on the Project
Site and Rationale
Long-eared owl
(nesting)
Asio otus US: –
CA: SSC
Rare resident in Southern California coastal and foothill areas and
uncommon resident in desert areas. Dense willow-riparian woodland
and oak woodland. Breeds from valley foothill hardwood up to
ponderosa pine habitat.
Low. There are no known occurrences in
the project vicinity but there is suitable
habitat on the project site. Nesting is
very uncommon in this area.
Golden eagle Aquila chrysaetos US: FP
CA: -
Generally open country of the Temperate Zone worldwide. Nesting
primarily in rugged mountainous country. Uncommon resident in
Southern California.
Not Expected. There are no known
occurrences in the project vicinity and
the species is not known to nest in this
area.
Burrowing owl
(burrow sites and
some wintering
sites)
Athene cunicularia US: -
CA: SSC
Burrows in 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.
Low. There is one known occurrence in
the project vicinity and habitat on the
project site is considered marginally
suitable. Nesting and overwintering are
very uncommon in this area.
Swainson's hawk Buteo swainsoni US: -
CA: CT
Found in open habitats (e.g. grasslands, sage flats and prairies) in
western North America; migrates south to Argentina during the winter.
Low. There are no known occurrences in
the project vicinity but there is suitable
habitat on the project site. Nesting is
very uncommon in this area.
Coastal cactus wren Campylorhynchus
brunneicapillus
sandiegensis
US: -
CA: SSC
Occurs in CSS habitats. Requires tall Opuntia cactus for nesting and
roosting.
Not expected. There are known
occurrences in the project vicinity, but
suitable cactus habitat is absent from
the project site.
Western yellow-
billed cuckoo
(nesting)
Coccyzus
americanus
occidentalis
US: FT
CA: CE
Nests in riparian forests along the broad lower flood-bottoms of larger
river systems. Nests in riparian jungles of willow, often mixed with
cottonwoods with understory of blackberry, nettle, or grape.
Not expected. There are no known
occurrences of this species in the project
vicinity and suitable riparian nesting
habitat is absent from the project site.
yellow rail Coturnicops
noveboracensis
US: -
CA: SSC
Occurs in shallow marshes and wet meadows. During winter, may
occupy drier fresh-water and brackish marshes as well as dense, deep
grass and rice fields.
Not expected. There are no known
occurrences of this species in the project
vicinity and suitable riparian nesting
habitat is absent from the project site.
White-tailed kite
(nesting)
Elanus leucurus US: -
CA: CFP
Breeds in riparian trees such as oaks, willows, and cottonwoods in
lower-elevation areas, particularly coastal valleys and plains.
Low. There are no known occurrences in
the project vicinity but there is suitable
habitat on the project site. Nesting is
very uncommon in this area.
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C-10
Table C-2: Special-Status Animal Species Identified as Potentially Occurring or Known to Occur in the Project Vicinity
Common Name Scientific Name Status
Listing Habitat and Comments Likelihood of Occurrence on the Project
Site and Rationale
Southwestern
Willow Flycatcher
Empidonax traillii
extimus
US: FE
CA: CE
Occurs in relatively dense riparian tree and shrub communities
associated with rivers, swamps, and other wetlands including lakes and
reservoirs.
Not expected. There are no known
occurrences of this species in the project
vicinity and suitable riparian nesting
habitat is absent from the project site.
American peregrine
falcon
Falco peregrinus
anatum
US: FD
CA: CFP
Occurs in open habitats, usually near water. Generally requires cliffs,
very tall buildings, or similar situations for nesting.
Not expected. There are no known
occurrences of this species in the project
vicinity and suitable nesting habitat is
generally absent from the project area.
Low potential of foraging in the project
vicinity.
California black rail Laterallus
jamaicensis
coturniculus
US: FP
CA: CT
Nests in tidal salt marshes, shallow freshwater marshes, wet meadows,
and flooded grassy vegetation.
Not Expected. While there is one
nonspecific historic occurrence record in
the project vicinity, suitable nesting
habitat is absent from the project site.
Coastal California
gnatcatcher
Polioptila
californica
californica
US: FT
CA: SSC
Obligate, permanent resident of coastal sage scrub habitats below
2,500 ft in elevation in Southern California.
Not expected. There are many known
occurrences in the general vicinity of the
project site, but suitable coastal sage
scrub nesting habitat is absent from the
project site.
Bank swallow Riparia riparia US: -
CA: CT
Occurs in low areas along rivers, streams, ocean coasts, or reservoirs.
Nesting colonies require tall vertical cliffs, bluffs, or similar situations
such as sand/ gravel quarries or road cuts.
Not Expected. There are no known
occurrences of this species in the project
vicinity and suitable nesting habitat is
generally absent from the project area.
Yellow warbler Setophaga
petechial
US: -
CA: SSC
Requires habitats with riparian plant associations in close proximity to
water. Also nests in montane shrubbery in open conifer forests.
Frequently found nesting and foraging in willow shrubs and thickets and
in other riparian plants, including cottonwoods.
Not expected. There are many known
occurrences in the general vicinity of the
project site, but suitable riparian nesting
habitat is absent from the project site.
California least tern Sternula antillarum
browni
US: FE
CA: CE,
CFP
Nest on beaches, mudflats, and sand dunes, usually near shallow
estuaries and lagoons with access to the near open ocean.
Not expected. There are no known
occurrences of this species in the project
vicinity and suitable nesting habitat is
absent from the project site.
Least Bell’s vireo
(nesting)
Vireo bellii pusillus US: FE
CA: CE
Occurs in moist thickets and riparian areas that are predominantly
composed of willow and mule fat.
Not expected. There are many known
occurrences in the general vicinity of the
project site, but suitable riparian nesting
habitat is absent from the project site.
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C-11
Table C-2: Special-Status Animal Species Identified as Potentially Occurring or Known to Occur in the Project Vicinity
Common Name Scientific Name Status
Listing Habitat and Comments Likelihood of Occurrence on the Project
Site and Rationale
MAMMALS
Pallid bat Antrozous pallidus US: -
CA: SSC
Found in varied habitats in western North America. Not expected. There are no known
occurrences in the general vicinity of the
project site, and suitable habitat is
absent on the project site.
Northwestern San
Diego pocket
mouse
Chaetodipus fallax
fallax
US: -
CA: SSC
Found in sandy herbaceous areas, usually associated with rocks or
coarse gravel in coastal scrub, chaparral, grasslands, and sagebrush,
from Los Angeles County through southwestern San Bernardino,
western Riverside, and San Diego Counties to northern Baja California.
Not expected. There are no known
occurrences in the general vicinity of the
project site, and suitable habitat is
absent on the project site.
Mexican
long-tongued bat
Choeronycteris
mexicana
US: -
CA: SSC
Occasionally found in San Diego County. Feeds on nectar and pollen of
night-blooming succulents. Roosts in relatively well-lit caves as well as
in and around buildings.
Not expected. There are no known
occurrences in the vicinity of the project
site, and suitable roosting habitat is
absent on the project site.
San Bernardino
kangaroo rat
Dipodomys
merriami parvus
US: FE
CA: SSC
Gravelly and sandy soils of alluvial fans, braided river channels, active
channels and terraces; San Bernardino Valley (San Bernardino County)
and San Jacinto Valley (Riverside County). In San Bernardino County,
this species occurs primarily in the Santa Ana River and its tributaries
north of Interstate 10, with small remnant populations in the Etiwanda
alluvial fan, the northern portion of the Jurupa Mountains in the south
Bloomington area, and in Reche Canyon. In Riverside County, this
species occurs along the San Jacinto River east of approximately
Sanderson Avenue, and along Bautista Creek. Remnant populations
may also occur within Riverside County in Reche Canyon, San Timoteo
Canyon, Laborde Canyon, the Jurupa Mountains, and the Santa Ana
River Wash north of State Route 60.
Not expected. There are no known
occurrences of this species in the project
vicinity and suitable soils and habitat are
absent on the project site.
Western mastiff bat Eumops perotis
californicus
US: -
CA: SSC
Inhabits many open, semi-arid to arid habitats including conifer and
deciduous woodlands, coastal scrub, grasslands, and chaparral
communities. Roosts in crevices in cliff faces, high buildings, trees, and
tunnels.
Low. There are known occurrences in
the general vicinity of the project site,
but there is little suitable habitat on the
project site.
Western yellow bat Lasiurus xanthinus US: –
CA: SSC
Occurs in Southern California in palm oases and in residential areas with
untrimmed palm trees. Roosts primarily in trees, especially the dead
fronds of palm trees. Forages over water and among trees.
Low. There are no known occurrences in
the vicinity of the project site, and there
is little suitable habitat on the project
site.
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C-12
Table C-2: Special-Status Animal Species Identified as Potentially Occurring or Known to Occur in the Project Vicinity
Common Name Scientific Name Status
Listing Habitat and Comments Likelihood of Occurrence on the Project
Site and Rationale
San Diego black-
tailed jackrabbit
Lepus californicus
bennettii
US: –
CA: SSC
Occurs in a variety of habitats including open areas or semi-open
country, typically in grasslands, agricultural fields or sparse coastal
scrub communities.
Low. There are no known occurrences in
the vicinity of the project site, and there
is little suitable habitat on the project
site.
San Diego desert
woodrat
Neotoma lepida
intermedia
US: -
CA: SSC
Found in open habitats from desert to CSS. Feeds on succulent plants,
including stems and pad of cholla and prickly pear cactus and leaves of
yucca.
Low. There are no known occurrences in
the vicinity of the project site, and there
is little suitable foraging habitat in the
project vicinity,
Pocketed free-tailed
bat
Nyctinomops
femorasacca
US: –
CA: SSC
Spotty distribution in California, ranging from Southern California south
to the Baja Peninsula, and through southwestern Arizona to at least
central Mexico. In California, typically found in rocky, desert areas with
relatively high cliffs.
Not expected. There are no known
occurrences in the general vicinity of the
project site, and suitable roosting
habitat is absent on the project site.
Big free-tailed bat Nyctinomops
macrotis
US: –
CA: SSC
Inhabits low-lying arid areas in southern California. Needs high cliffs or
rocky outcrops for roosting sites. Feeds principally on large moths.
Not expected. There are no known
occurrences in the general vicinity of the
project site, and suitable roosting
habitat is absent on the project site.
American badger Taxidea taxus US: -
CA: SSC
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.
Low. There are no known occurrences in
the vicinity of the project site, and there
is little suitable habitat on the project
site.
1 Project vicinity = project site plus a 5-mile buffer
Status: Federal Endangered (FE), Federal Threatened (FT), Federal Candidate (FC), Federal Proposed (FP, FPE, FPT), Federal Delisted (FD), California Endangered (CE), California Threatened (CT),
California Species of Special Concern (SSC), California Fully Protected Species (CFP), California Special Plant (CSP), California Special Animal (CSA)
BCC = Birds of Conservation Concern
CA = California
CNDDB = California Natural Diversity Database
CSS = coastal sage scrub
DPS = Distinct population segments
ft = foot/feet
US = United States
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APPENDIX D
PLANT AND ANIMAL SPECIES OBSERVED
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D-1
PLANT SPECIES OBSERVED
The following plant species were observed within the project area during the June 16 and June 20,
2019 field surveys. Species denoted with an asterisk (*) are not native to southern California.
EUDICOTS
Adoxaceae Muskroot Family
Sambucus nigra ssp. caerulea Blue elderberry
Amaranthaceae Amaranth Family
* Amaranthus albus Tumbling pigweed
Anacardiaceae Sumac Family
Rhus integrifolia Lemonade berry
* Schinus terebinthifolius Brazilian pepper tree
Toxicodendron diversilobum Poison oak
Apiaceae Carrot Family
* Conium maculatum Poison hemlock
Apocynaceae Dogbane Family
Asclepias californica California milkweed
Asclepias fascicularis Narrow-leaf milkweed
Asteraceae Sunflower Family
* Carduus pycnocephalus Italian thistle
* Centaurea melitensis Tocalote
* Erigeron bonariensis Flax-leaved horseweed
Erigeron canadensis Common horseweed
* Hedypnois cretica Crete hedypnois
* Helminthotheca echiodes Bristly ox-tongue
Heterotheca grandiflora Telegraph weed
* Lactuca serriola Prickly lettuce
Malacothrix saxatilis var. tenuifolia Cliff malacothrix
Pseudognaphalium californicum California everlasting
* Silybum marianum Milk thistle
* Sonchus asper ssp. asper Prickly sow-thistle
Boraginaceae Borage Family
Amsinckia menziesii var. intermedia Common fiddleneck
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D-2
Brassicaceae Mustard Family
* Hirschfeldia incana Shortpod mustard
Chenopodiaceae Goosefoot Family
* Chenopodium album Lamb’s quarters
* Salsola tragus Russian-thistle
Convolvulaceae Morning-glory Family
* Convolvulus arvensis Field bindweed
Cucurbitaceae Gourd Family
Marah macrocarpus Wild cucumber
Euphorbiaceae Spurge Family
Croton setigerus Doveweed
Fabaceae Legume Family
Acmispon americanus var. americanus Spanish lotus
Lupinus succulentus Arroyo lupine
* Melilotus indicus Annual yellow sweetclover
Fagaceae Oak Family
Quercus agrifolia var. agrifolia Coast live oak
Geraniaceae Geranium Family
* Erodium cicutarium Redstem filaree
Grossulariaceae Gooseberry Family
Ribes speciosum Fuchsia-flowered gooseberry
Juglandaceae Walnut Family
Juglans californica var. californica Southern California black walnut
Lamiaceae Mint Family
* Marrubium vulgare Horehound
Malvaceae Mallow Family
* Malva parviflora Cheeseweed
Myrsinaceae Myrsine Family
* Anagallis arvensis Scarlet pimpernel
Plantaginaceae Plantain Family
* Plantago lanceolata English plantain
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D-3
Polygonaceae Buckwheat Family
* Rumex crispus Curly dock
Solanaceae Nightshade Family
Datura wrightii Jimsonweed
MONOCOTS
Poaceae Grass Family
* Avena barbata Slender wild oat
* Avena fatua Wild oat
* Bromus diandrus Ripgut grass
* Bromus hordeaceus Soft chess
* Bromus madritensis ssp. rubens Red brome
Elymus condensatus Giant wild-rye
Elymus triticoides Beardless wild-rye
* Festuca perennis Perennial rye
* Hordeum murinum Foxtail barley
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D-4
ANIMAL SPECIES OBSERVED
The following animal species were observed or otherwise detected (via tracks, scat, calls, etc.)
within the project area during the June 16 and June 20, 2019 field survey. Species denoted with an
asterisk (*) are not native to southern California.
REPTILIA REPTILES
Phrynosomatidae Phrynosomatid Lizards
Sceloporus occidentalis Western fence lizard
Colubridae Colubrid Snakes
Pituophis catenifer annectens San Diego gopher snake
AVES BIRDS
Odontophoridae New World Quail
Callipepla californica California quail
Columbidae Pigeons and Doves
Zenaida macroura Mourning dove
Trochilidae Hummingbirds
Calypte anna Anna’s hummingbird
Accipitridae Hawks, Kites, Eagles, and Allies
Accipiter cooperii Cooper’s hawk
Buteo jamaicensis Red-tailed hawk
Picidae Woodpeckers and Allies
Picoides pubescens Downy woodpecker
Tyrannidae Tyrant Flycatchers
Sayornis nigricans Black phoebe
Corvidae Crows and Jays
Aphelocoma californica California scrub-jay
Corvus brachyrhynchos American crow
Hirundinidae Swallows
Hirundo rustica Barn swallow
Turdidae Thrushes
Turdus migratorius American robin
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D-5
Mimidae Mockingbirds and Thrashers
Mimus polyglottos Northern mockingbird
Passeridae Old World Sparrows
* Passer domesticus House sparrow
Motacillidae Wagtails and Pipits
Spinus psaltria Lesser goldfinch
Passerellidae New World Sparrows
Melozone crissalis California towhee
Icteridae Blackbirds
Icterus cucullatus Hooded oriole
MAMMALIA MAMMALS
Leporidae Rabbits and Hares
Sylvilagus audubonii Audubon’s cottontail
Canidae Foxes, Wolves, and Allies
Canis latrans Coyote
Cervidae Deer, Elk, and Allies
Odocoileus hemionus Mule deer
Sciuridae Squirrels, Chipmunks, and Marmots
Otospermophilus beecheyi California ground squirrel