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HomeMy WebLinkAboutProposal_for_Canyon_Loop_Trail_HMMP_Restoration_Ecologist_Services-PsomasCANYON LOOP TRAIL IMPROVEMENT HABITAT MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM (HMMP) PROJECT MANAGER/RESTORATION ECOLOGIST SERVICES City of Diamond Bar Proposal | 07.06.23 Submitted To: Ryan Wright, Parks & Recreation Director Uploaded to PlanetBids 2City of Diamond Bar Canyon Loop Trail HMMP Restoration Ecologist Services TABLE OF CONTENTS 01 Project Team 5 02 Firm’s Experience/References 22 03 Project Understanding 26 04 Fee Proposal separate PlanetBids upload 2City of Diamond Bar | Canyon Loop Trail HMMP Restoration Ecologist Services Balancing the Natural and Built Environment July 6, 2023 Ryan Wright Parks & Recreation Director City of Diamond Bar Public Works 21810 Copley Drive Diamond Bar, CA 91765 Subject: Proposal for Canyon Loop Trail Improvement Habitat Mitigation Monitoring Program (HMMP) Project Manager/Restoration Ecologist Services Dear Mr. Wright: Psomas recognizes that the City requires an experienced firm to successfully implement the HMMP for the Project and to effectuate the timely completion of this Project. Given our long history with the City, we believe we are aptly suited to provide these services. Psomas is pleased to provide the enclosed proposed to provide habitat restoration monitoring and project management services to the City of Diamond Bar (City) for the Canyon Loop Trail Improvement Project. f Psomas has maintained a long-term relationship with the City working on projects for 20 years. f Psomas is a multi-disciplinary firm with over 20 years of experience working on habitat restoration projects for public and private sector clients in Los Angeles County. f Psomas has successfully provided environmental consulting services, including habitat restoration planning and monitoring, for multiple projects in the City including the Alamo Heights Project (Tract 53670), Millennium Residential Development Project (Tract 53430), Diamond Hills Ranch Development (Tract 52267), and Windmill Estates Residential Development (Tract 50314) in the Country Estates Community. Project Understanding The City seeks to implement the Project’s HMMP to establish coast prickly pear scrub and California sagebrush–black sage scrub habitat to compensate for native habitat impacts associated with the Trail Improvement Project. Challenges associated with HMMP implementation include the remoteness of the restoration sites, the presence of recreational hikers in the area, and the presence of coastal California gnatcatchers that inhabit the open space area north of the Diamond Bar Community Center. The objective of the habitat restoration program is to comply with the requirements of the HMMP and to meet all performance standards to verify that the California Department of Fish and Wildlife provides sign-off at the end of the five-year maintenance and monitoring period. 225 South Lake Avenue Suite 1000 Pasadena, CA 91101 Tel 626.351.2000 www.Psomas.com Approach and Methodology Psomas boasts one of the most experienced habitat restoration teams in Southern California, having planned and implemented numerous habitat mitigation programs in Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, and San Diego Counties. David Hughes will serve as Restoration Ecologist and Project Manager. Mr. Hughes has 20 years of habitat restoration and project management experience and is a Certified Ecological Restoration Practitioner by the Society for Ecological Restoration. Mr. Hughes will be responsible for compliance with the HMMP at all stages of implementation and for maintaining effective coordination with the City, the Restoration Contractor, and any other relevant Project team members. Mr. Hughes will be supported in our monitoring effort by an experienced team of Psomas restoration ecologists, botanists, and wildlife biologists. Having a diverse team associated with the Project enables Psomas to consistently provide experienced biologists to meet the Project’s needs. Psomas prides itself as a company that values the relationships we develop with our clients and strives to become an ongoing trusted advisor. These relationships help us to fully understand our client’s needs and to develop effective and efficient solutions. We are confident that our expertise will greatly help the City effectively manage the resources that enhance the trail and other surrounding land. We have reviewed the consultant services agreement and find all terms and conditions including insurance requirements acceptable. We have received the Questions and Answers dated June 27, 2023. Statement Certifying Insurance Coverage Psomas will obtain the required insurance coverage and we understand that said coverage is a prerequisite for entering into an agreement with the City. Sincerely, Ann Johnston Principal, Resource Management 714.481.8046 (d) | 714.751.7373 (o) Ann.Johnston@Psomas.com David T. Hughes Senior Project Manager/Restoration Ecologist Ryan Wright July 6, 2023 Page 2 of 2 5City of Diamond Bar Canyon Loop Trail HMMP Restoration Ecologist Services Key Team Members Psomas’ key personnel are expert professionals with a passion for improving our natural environment. Through their collective efforts, they will work diligently to achieve the highest level of accuracy and efficiency in all their work products. A brief description of each key team members experience and project role is provided below. David Hughes Project Manager/Restoration Ecologist David Hughes has 20 years of experience in environmental consulting, specifically, mitigation planning, restoration monitoring, wetland delineations, and regulatory permitting. David is a Certified Ecological Restoration Practitioner (No. 243) by the Society for Ecological Restoration and has served as a Senior Project Manager for several complex monitoring projects. As Senior Restoration Ecologist and Project Manager for this project, David will be the primary point of contact for City staff. In addition to being the lead monitor for the site, David will coordinate with other Psomas biologists and the restoration contractor to oversee that all monitoring activities are performed in a manner that is both time- and cost-efficient. David will also be responsible for reviewing data that are collected by our team of biologists and reviewing all reports that are provided for accuracy and quality control. David will also be responsible for managing the project budget. Ann Johnston Principal-in-Charge Ann Johnston is the Team Leader of Resource Management projects and a Principal of Psomas. She has 34 years of experience in biological resources inventories/evaluations; sensitive species surveys; mitigation monitoring; resource agency permitting and processing; conservation and strategic planning; and technical peer reviews. As Principal-in-Charge for this project, Ann will be responsible for supporting project management activities and providing general project oversight. Allison Rudalevige Senior Botanist Allison Rudalevige has 19 years of experience in the areas of biological and jurisdictional resources. She has experience conducting general and focused plant and wildlife surveys, vegetation mapping, mitigation monitoring, tree surveys, and jurisdictional delineations. Her experience also includes the preparation of several types of environmental documents. Trevor Bristle Biologist Trevor Bristle has 17 years of field experience. He has gained extensive experience conducting biological work while working on long-term multi-phase utility projects. He has handled species that include desert tortoise, horned lizards, and various riparian species. Trevor obtained his Desert Tortoise Handling Permit after completing 80 hours of closely monitored training. Trevor is a certified Arborist with a current Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ). PROJECT TEAM Section 1 5City of Diamond Bar | Canyon Loop Trail HMMP Restoration Ecologist Services 6City of Diamond Bar Canyon Loop Trail HMMP Restoration Ecologist Services Sarah Thomas Biologist Sarah Thomas has 15 years of field experience as a Research Assistant, Field Technician and Biologist. She specializes in birds and has studied bird identification throughout the western United States, bird behavior, bird biology and conservation, and is proficient with nest identification in the Los Angeles and San Bernardino Counties. Sarah performs wildlife, and pre-construction surveys to document and report existing conditions, and potential biological restraints to management. Jack Underwood Biologist Jack Underwood has two years of experience collecting and analyzing biological data for right-of-way and right-of-entry properties; conducting Worker Environmental Awareness Training; and conducting surveys for nesting birds and various species including the California Red Legged Frog and the Foothill Yellow Legged Frog. Jack has served as a Consulting Utility Forester studying different tree species’ classifications, their life history, light and soil requirements, adaptation to new environmental conditions, and their resistance to disease and insects. Richard B. Lewis III, ENV SP Restoration Ecologist Richard Lewis has 29 years of professional experience. He is responsible for developing and monitoring habitat restoration and mitigation programs; conducting focused botanical surveys and vegetation mapping; and preparing community involvement and educational programs and literature. Richard is currently managing a total of six habitat restoration sites comprising over 119 acres of habitat, of which three sites have been occupied by federally listed wildlife species. A total of 21 habitat mitigation programs managed by Richard, totaling over 240 acres of habitat, have been signed-off by the resource agencies since March 2006. 6City of Diamond Bar | Canyon Loop Trail HMMP Restoration Ecologist Services 7City of Diamond Bar Canyon Loop Trail HMMP Restoration Ecologist Services Ann Johnston PSOMAS PRINCIPAL-IN-CHARGE David Hughes PSOMAS PROJECT MANAGER/ RESTORATION ECOLOGIST Trevor Bristle, RCA Sarah Thomas Jack Underwood PSOMAS BIOLOGISTS Allison Rudalevige PSOMAS SENIOR BOTANIST Richard B. Lewis III, ENV SP PSOMAS SENIOR RESTORATION ECOLOGIST ORGANIZATION CHART CITY PROJECT MANAGER 7City of Diamond Bar | Canyon Loop Trail HMMP Restoration Ecologist Services 8City of Diamond Bar Canyon Loop Trail HMMP Restoration Ecologist Services David Hughes Project Manager, Restoration Ecologist David Hughes is a Senior Project Manager in Restoration Ecology and Regulatory Services with 21 years of experience in mitigation planning, restoration monitoring, wetland delineations, and regulatory permitting. David is also a Certified Arborist and fully trained practitioner of the California Rapid Assessment Method (CRAM) for wetlands. He is responsible for completing Jurisdictional Assessments/Delineation Reports and assisting both private and public entities with obtaining regulatory authorizations from the USACE, the CDFW, the USFWS, the RWQCBs, and the California Coastal Commission (CCC). He is responsible for planning and implementing mitigation projects to comply with regulatory permit conditions and mitigation measures pertaining to the CEQA. David has expertise in habitat site analysis, habitat mitigation program development, restoration monitoring, wetland delineations and assessments, regulations pertaining to jurisdictional waters, tree inventories and protection plans, and general mitigation compliance documentation. Experience Sterling Residential Development Project, Restoration and Regulatory Services – West Hills, CA: The project consists of an approximate 200-home residential development along with associated infrastructure in West Hills. David serves as the Project Manager for this project and has provided habitat restoration services which included preparation of a Riparian Habitat Mitigation Program. The mitigation program consisted of the establishment of over 400 native trees and associated understory species along with the eradication of various invasive species such as blue gum (Eucalyptus globulus), giant reed (Arundo donax), castor bean (Ricinus communis), and tree tobacco (Nicotiana glauca). David also acquired regulatory permits, performed a delineation of jurisdictional waters; conducted special status botanical surveys; and prepared a tree protection and mitigation plan to minimize construction impacts. San Gabriel River Rubber Dams No. 2 and No. 3 Biological Services and Riparian Habitat Mitigation Program – Los Angeles County, CA: Project Manager in charge of monitoring the project site during construction; establishing baseline biological conditions; monitoring ongoing site conditions to determine the dams effects on the baseline conditions; and planning a 3.7- acre off-site mitigation program. The San Gabriel River Rubber Dams Nos. 2 and 3 project involved the Los Angeles County Department of Public Works’ (LACDPW’s) installation of two inflatable rubber dams along the San Gabriel River in El Monte, California. David oversaw the installation of the off-site mitigation program; monitored and documented the status of the mitigation site; and coordinated with the USACE, CDFW, RWQCB, and USFWS to have the LACDPW released from their permit requirements at the end of the five-year maintenance period. EDUCATION 2003/MS/Ecological Restoration and Management/University of Wisconsin, Madison 1991/BS/Ecology, Behavior and Evolution/University of California, San Diego CERTIFICATIONS Trained Practitioner, California Rapid Assessment Method (CRAM), Riverine and Depressional Wetland Modules/California Wetlands Monitoring Workgroup/ U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Jurisdictional Delineation Training/ Richard Chinn Environmental Training, Inc./ Certified Arborist/ International Society of Arboriculture/WE-7752A PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS California Society for Ecological Restoration International Society of Arboriculture EXPERIENCE With Psomas for 20 years; with other firms for 1 year 8City of Diamond Bar | Canyon Loop Trail HMMP Restoration Ecologist Services 9City of Diamond Bar Canyon Loop Trail HMMP Restoration Ecologist Services David Hughes (Continued) Bridle Creek Habitat Mitigation Program, Restoration and Regulatory Services – Riverside, CA: Restoration Ecologist and Project Manager for the Bridle Creek Mitigation Program associated with the Three Sisters Residential Development Program. David was brought on to assess the condition of a Riparian Habitat Mitigation Program that was implemented by another consultant. David provided recommendations to bring the mitigation into compliance with regulatory agency permits and also prepared a Long- Term Management Plan which described methods of invasive plant control and native habitat protection in several water quality basins to enhance areas under the jurisdiction of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife while maintaining compliance with the County Fire Code. Tesoro del Valle Residential Development Project, Restoration and Regulatory Services – Santa Clarita, CA: David is the Project Manager for the 800-acre Tesoro del Valle project site and has prepared Habitat Mitigation Plans to restore habitat for coast live oak woodland and coastal sage scrub, including specifications for controlling non- native plants in the on-site riparian and adjacent uplands. David also performed special status botanical surveys, oak tree surveys pursuant to the County Oak Tree Ordinance, delineation of jurisdictional waters, and acquisition of regulatory agency permits. David also prepared the Biota Report that was approved by the Los Angeles County Significant Ecological Area Technical Advisory Committee. Chatsworth Reservoir Open Space, Restoration and Regulatory Services – Chatsworth, CA: David performed a delineation of jurisdictional waters to support the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power’s efforts to enhance the ecology ponds that support a variety of bird and aquatic wildlife species in the Chatsworth Reservoir Open Space Area. David identified the limits of regulatory agency jurisdiction, mapped sensitive biological resources, and listed non-native species to be controlled as part of overall enhancement of the basins. Plum Canyon Residential Development Project, Restoration and Regulatory Services – Santa Clarita, CA: David identified off-site mitigation opportunities for SunCal Companies to compensate for impacts to riparian habitats resulting from project development. David evaluated properties in the Soledad Canyon area of Los Angeles County that would provide suitable mitigation for site preservation and worked with the Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority to dedicate these properties for conservation. David also prepared a Habitat Enhancement Plan which detailed ongoing monitoring and invasive species eradication. Peters Canyon Wash Mitigation Program, Peters Canyon Regional Park, – Orange County, CA: The Peters Canyon Wash Mitigation Program provides approximately 15 acres of compensatory mitigation for impacts associated with sediment removal and vegetation maintenance at lower San Diego Creek. David has provided regular monitoring and reporting to facilitate native plant establishment, prevent establishment of non- native species, and maintain compliance with all aspects of the approved mitigation plan for the project. David has performed quantitative annual surveys to document site conditions and helped to perform the Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program (SWAMP) bioassessment protocol. 9City of Diamond Bar | Canyon Loop Trail HMMP Restoration Ecologist Services 10City of Diamond Bar Canyon Loop Trail HMMP Restoration Ecologist Services Ann Johnston Principal-in-Charge Ann Johnston is the Team Leader of Resource Management and a Principal of Psomas. She has 34 years of experience in biological resources inventories/ evaluations; sensitive species surveys; mitigation monitoring; resource agency permitting and processing; conservation and strategic planning; and technical peer reviews. Ann’s professional experience has focused on finding solutions to development challenges where potential impacts to biological resources may occur, and on the assessment and integration of biological data (particularly on sensitive species) into environmental documentation that complies with the requirements of CEQA, NEPA, FESA, and CESA. Over the past 34 years, she has managed and/or authored the biological resources sections of numerous EIRs; EISs; Biological Technical Reports; Biological Assessments (pursuant to Section 7 consultations with the USFWS); Natural Environment Studies (NESs) (pursuant to Caltrans guidelines); focused surveys for sensitive species; tree reports; resource management plans; mitigation monitoring reports; and general biological assessments and constraints analyses. Experience Tehachapi Renewable Transmission Project Biological Resources Support – Southern California, CA: Principal-in-Charge for this Southern California Edison project. The Tehachapi Renewable Transmission Project (TRTP) consists of the construction of several substations and a total of 175 miles of transmission lines running from the Antelope Valley through the Angeles National Forest (ANF) and into the City of Ontario. The project’s objective is to bring wind and solar sourced energy from the Tehachapi Mountains and western Antelope Valley to the Los Angeles basin. As part of a large, multi-company team, Psomas has provided a full range of biological services including vegetation mapping; focused surveys for plants, trees, birds, herpetofauna, and bats; nesting bird surveys; raptor surveys; pre-construction surveys and construction monitoring; and seed collection. Ann is providing project management and senior support for the portion of the alignment that traverses the ANF. Her responsibilities include technical staff management for focused surveys and construction monitoring; reviews of avoidance and mitigation plans; and guidance on a multitude of other tasks. Southern California Gas Company North-South Pipeline Project – Riverside and San Bernardino Counties, CA: Principal-in-Charge/Project Manager for this project, which proposes to construct a new pipeline from Adelanto to Moreno Valley to ensure a reliable supply of gas to Southern California. The project includes the construction and installation of an approximate 65-mile-long, 36-inch-diameter natural gas transmission pipeline, including compressor and pressure limiting stations. Psomas conducted focused surveys and prepared reports for many special status plant and wildlife species, including bat species, burrowing owl, coastal California gnatcatcher, desert tortoise, fairy shrimp, Mohave ground squirrel, raptors, and riparian birds. Psomas also performed small mammal trapping, weed surveys, tree surveys, and a jurisdictional delineation. In addition, Psomas prepared a Biological EDUCATION 1989/BA/Biology/California State University, Long Beach PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS Women's Transportation Seminar, Orange County Chapter IRWA Chapter 67 EXPERIENCE With Psomas for 27 years; with other firms for 7 years 10City of Diamond Bar | Canyon Loop Trail HMMP Restoration Ecologist Services 11City of Diamond Bar Canyon Loop Trail HMMP Restoration Ecologist Services Ann Johnston (Continued) Technical Report, a Jurisdictional Water Resources Existing Conditions Report, a Biological Assessment/Biological Evaluation (pursuant to U.S. Forest Service Standards), a Hydrology and Water Quality Assessment, and a Land Use Assessment. Psomas also prepared the Application for Federal Clean Water Act Section 401 Water Quality Certification, Pre-Construction Notification under the Federal Clean Water Act Section 404 Nationwide Permit, and Notification of Lake or Streambed Alteration Agreement in accordance with Section 1602 of the California Fish and Game Code. Ann provided technical and project management support in the areas of biology, regulatory, GIS, hydrology, and land-use. Los Angeles International Airport El Segundo Blue Butterfly Habitat Restoration Area Biological Support Services – Los Angeles, CA: Principal- in-Charge/Project Manager for this project, which is to provide a variety of support services to Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) regarding the El Segundo Blue Butterfly Habitat Restoration Area. These services included performing annual surveys for the federally endangered El Segundo blue butterfly (ESBB), conducting a population estimate of the ESBB for the flight season as per the current population model, and preparing an annual report submitted to LAWA and the USFWS. In addition, Psomas staff prepared a presentation for LAWA of a “virtual educational tour” of the El Segundo Blue Butterfly Habitat Restoration Area and conducted an invasive plant training session to LAWA staff, the Maintenance Services Division, and collaborators to assist staff in identifying and avoiding sensitive species, invasive plant identification, invasive plant priority targets, and best management practices for working in sensitive areas. OC Invasive Plant Species Mapping – Orange County, CA: Principal-in-Charge on this project, which included mapping weeds located on OC Parks lands. Field surveys were conducted throughout OC Park lands including Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park, O’Neill Regional Park, Thomas F. Riley Wilderness Park, East Orange I and II, and Mountain Park. Collectively, these parks total over 13,700 acres. Data was collected electronically in the field using iPads to minimize time for data entry following fieldwork; data was also recorded on hard copy field forms as a backup. Over 817 acres of weed polygons were mapped during the effort. 11City of Diamond Bar | Canyon Loop Trail HMMP Restoration Ecologist Services 12City of Diamond Bar Canyon Loop Trail HMMP Restoration Ecologist Services Allison Rudalevige Senior Botanist Allison Rudalevige is a Senior Biologist with 19 years of experience in the areas of biological and jurisdictional resources. She has experience conducting general and focused plant and wildlife surveys, vegetation mapping, mitigation monitoring, tree surveys, jurisdictional delineations, California Rapid Assessment Method (CRAM) analyses, and physical habitat analysis according to the Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program (SWAMP) protocol. Her experience also includes the preparation of several types of environmental documents. She has also prepared application packages for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Section 404 Permit; the Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB) Section 401 Water Quality Certification and Report of Waste Discharge; the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) Notification of Lake or Streambed Alteration; and the California Coastal Commission (CCC) Coastal Development Permit applications. She has completed coursework in the areas of wetland, plant, vernal pool branchiopod, bird, and herpetofauna identification. Experience Serrano Creek Stabilization and Restoration Project Fifth Annual Mitigation Monitoring Report – Lake Forest, CA: Biologist for the project, which included annual quantitative surveys within the restoration site and the preparation of the Fifth Annual Mitigation Monitoring Report in collaboration with OC Parks staff, County maintenance personnel, and other project team members. Data collected during the annual surveys included native plant species coverage, diversity and density, and various habitat functional qualities; the data were used to determine compliance with required success criteria. Allison assisted with vegetation sampling for the fifth annual monitoring report. Survey methodology included line-intercept and belt transects at permanent transect locations and photographic documentation of the project site. Data were collected on a Personal Digital Assistant with the Restoration Studio program. San Diego Creek Wildlife Corridor Habitat Restoration Services – Irvine, CA: Biologist for the San Diego Creek Wildlife Corridor Project. She prepared a wildlife corridor analysis; conducted a literature review of structures designed to facilitate wildlife movement; and prepared a memo that presented three alternative structural designs to project engineers. This information was used by the project team to select the best alternative for the project's site conditions. Allison also prepared an updated memo that outlined the project's selected design alternative and the benefits of this approach. Laguna Canyon Road Project Vegetation Mapping – Orange County, CA: Biologist for the Laguna Canyon Road project. She assisted with vegetation mapping of 13 potential mitigation areas totaling 8.24 acres in order to evaluate potential enhancement and revegetation opportunities along Laguna Canyon Road for the County of Orange. EDUCATION 2005/MS/Biology/University of California, Riverside 2000/BS/Biology, Zoology/ California State University, Long Beach CERTIFICATIONS Scientific Collecting Permit/No. SC-183060003/ California Department of Fish and Wildlife/SC- 183060003 Plant Voucher Collecting Permit/No. 2081(a)-18-017-V/ California Department of Fish and Wildlife/2081(a)- 20-109-V 10(a)(1)(A) Permit, Conservancy fairy shrimp, longhorn fairy shrimp, Riverside fairy shrimp, San Diego fairy shrimp, vernal pool fairy shrimp, vernal pool tadpole shrimp/No. TE177979-2/U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service/TE177979-2 Trained Practitioner, California Rapid Assessment Method (CRAM), Riverine and Estuarine Wetland Modules/California Wetlands Monitoring Workgroup/ EXPERIENCE With Psomas for 19 years 12City of Diamond Bar | Canyon Loop Trail HMMP Restoration Ecologist Services 13City of Diamond Bar Canyon Loop Trail HMMP Restoration Ecologist Services Allison Rudalevige (Continued) Orange County Transportation Authority, Baseline Biological Surveys for Acquired Properties – Orange County, CA: Senior Biologist for this project, which has allowed the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) to establish a biological baseline of seven acquired properties, with special attention on species covered under the draft OCTA National Community Conservation Plan (NCCP)/ Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP). Surveys were conducted in a manner that allowed the greatest opportunity to document non-Covered Species and habitats that add value to a potential conservation area. The specific survey and documentation tasks undertaken to establish the biological baseline include literature review; general biological surveys and vegetation mapping; acquisition, restoration, and management criteria evaluation; special status plant surveys; special status wildlife surveys for coastal California gnatcatcher, coastal cactus wren, least Bell's vireo, southwestern willow flycatcher, and special status bat species; a jurisdictional delineation and CRAM evaluation; and Biological Technical Reports documenting the findings of all these surveys. Allison mapped vegetation on the sites, conducted focused surveys for special status plant species, and performed jurisdictional delineation surveys. She prepared Letter Reports, Biological Technical Reports, and Jurisdictional Delineation Reports for the sites. Sylmar Ground Return System Replacement Project, Biological Services – Topanga State Park Area, CA: Biologist for this project which would allow the City of Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) to upgrade the undersized and deteriorated electrical transmission system. The Project included overhead, underground, and submarine electric transmission lines; underground and submarine vaults; and either full or partial replacement of other ocean-based facilities (including cables and conduits). The project would also include the removal of the existing overhead lines and underground electrode cables, where possible. Allison assisted in overseeing the preparation of the Biological Technical Report. 2021 Lee Vining Riparian Monitoring – Mono County, CA: Senior Biologist to conduct 2021 riparian and aquatic monitoring of Lee Vining Creek hydroelectric project. She collected data on tree and shrub species along multiple belt transects through riparian and adjacent upland vegetation. This included data on species, canopy diameter, height, and size class. Allison also assisted in a site inventory of plant species. Pechanga Parkway Storm Drain Improvement Habitat Mitigation and Monitoring Program – Temecula, CA: Senior Biologist for mitigation planning and monitoring activities provided for the storm drain improvement project. The project consisted of widening of Pechanga Parkway and its associated flood-control and drainage improvements to a channelized section of Wolf Creek. A Habitat Mitigation and Monitoring Program (HMMP) was prepared, which follows USACE guidelines and that complies with standard resource agency requirements for riparian habitat mitigation. Mitigation planning was performed in compliance with CDFW, USACE, and RWQCB requirements for mitigating impacts to jurisdictional resources, and final mitigation ratios were developed using the USACE’s mitigation ratio setting worksheet. T Allison completed vegetation sampling of the mitigation site to evaluate the site’s performance and to determine whether it is progressing toward meeting its performance criteria. Survey methods included point-intercept transects at random transect locations and a CRAM analysis. Allison subsequently prepared Annual Monitoring Reports to document the survey findings. 13City of Diamond Bar | Canyon Loop Trail HMMP Restoration Ecologist Services 14City of Diamond Bar Canyon Loop Trail HMMP Restoration Ecologist Services Trevor Bristle, RCA Biologist Trevor Bristle is a Biologist with over 17 years of field experience. He has gained extensive experience conducting biological work while working on long-term multi-phase utility projects. Trevor has conducted biological work in the Sonoran Desert, Angeles National Forest, San Bernardino National Forest, and Mojave Desert, and he is familiar with the associated plants, wildlife, and habitats found therein. He has handled species that include desert tortoise, horned lizards, and various riparian species. Trevor obtained his Desert Tortoise Handling Permit after completing 80 hours of closely monitored training. Species of concern encountered include spotted owl, burrowing owl, Swainson's hawk, golden eagle, willow flycatcher, least Bell's vireo, loggerhead shrike, Mohave ground squirrel, Bakersfield cactus, desert tortoise, and California condor. Trevor is a certified Arborist with a current Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ). Currently, Trevor conducts biological monitoring and surveying on a wide variety of projects, including tree surveys and evaluations; general vegetation surveys and mapping; jurisdictional delineations; nesting bird surveys; desert tortoise surveys; bat surveys; and construction monitoring for large solar, wind, transmission, and pipeline projects. Experience Simi Valley Landfill and Recycling Center Expansion Project – Simi Valley, CA: Arborist for the Simi Valley Landfill and Recycling Center Expansion Project. The approximately 887-acre site is located in southeast Ventura County, north of the limits of the City of Simi Valley. Trevor documented all trees found in the survey area boundaries that qualify for protection according to the Ventura County Tree Protection Ordinance. During the survey, each tree was assessed and the following data were collected: trunk circumference, tree height, and canopy width and qualitative ratings for aesthetics and overall health. Additionally, Trevor created a Tree Protection Plan. He is responsible for ongoing monitoring of protection measures and reporting. Santa Anita Dam Riser Modification and Sediment Removal Project Oak Woodland Habitat Mitigation Program – Arcadia, CA: Biologist for this project that involved mitigating for impacts as a result of the removal of approximately 325,000 cubic yards of sediment from the Santa Anita Dam Reservoir and placement of this sediment to one of three Sediment Placement Sites (SPSs, i.e., the Lower, Middle, and Upper SPSs). It also involved the construction of a riser on the dam’s lowest outlet to ensure compliance with State seismic safety requirements. The mitigation site is located at the Lower SPS and includes 5.5 acres of oak woodland habitat creation and 2.5 acres of sage scrub creation. The Oak Woodland Habitat Revegetation/Mitigation Program (OWHMP) was developed in coordination with the client and resource agency staff and in compliance with agency requirements for the establishment of oak woodland habitat. The project also includes monitoring initial installation, as well as maintenance activities and site performance during the required ten-year maintenance and monitoring program. Monitoring activities consist EDUCATION 2008/BS/Natural Resources Management/Northland College CERTIFICATIONS Registered Consulting Arborist/American Society of Consulting Arborists/746 Certified Arborist/WE- 10233A/International Society of Arboriculture/ WE-10233A Authorized to independently capture, mark, weigh, measure, rehydrate, and release desert tortoises/Recovery Subpermit FWSDTRO- 0/U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service/Recovery Subpermit FWSDTRO-0 PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS International Society of Arboriculture EXPERIENCE With Psomas for 12 years; with other firms for 5 years 14City of Diamond Bar | Canyon Loop Trail HMMP Restoration Ecologist Services 15City of Diamond Bar Canyon Loop Trail HMMP Restoration Ecologist Services Trevor Bristle, RCA (Continued) of regular qualitative and quantitative site examinations and the development of site-status documentation. Trevor currently participates in identifying wildlife, completing annual tree health assessments, and performing restoration maintenance within the bounds of the project area. He also performs routine tree surveys on the reference site to the north of the restoration project to determine baseline regrowth rates. Camp Kilpatrick Biological Resources Services – Los Angeles County, CA: Biologist for the construction of a replacement juvenile residential treatment camp in Los Angeles County. To support the project's IS/MND, Psomas completed vegetation mapping; general plant and wildlife surveys, including a jurisdictional delineation and report; bat habitat assessment; focused plant surveys; oak tree surveys; and bat roost emergence surveys. A Biological Resources Report was completed that summarized the results of the above-mentioned surveys and which became an appendix to the IS/MND. Trevor participated in oak tree surveys and the bat emergency survey. Lower Arroyo Seco Construction, Maintenance, and Repair Projects Nesting Bird Surveys and Monitoring – Pasadena, CA: Biologist for the Lower Arroyo Seco Emergency Low Flow Stream Repair Project. The project was located along approximately three miles of the Lower Arroyo Seco channel and consisted of stream clearance to allow the expedited flow of water downstream due to serious drought conditions. Trevor monitored construction on a daily basis and biological resources were updated on an as-needed basis, with nesting birds prioritized. He made daily reports at the end of each work day to document wildlife observed and activities performed. Southern California Edison's As-Needed Support Services – Southern California, CA: Biologist for Southern California Edison's (SCE's) As-Needed Support Services. Trevor conducts nesting bird surveys on an on-call basis. Locations to be surveyed are located along SCE's alignments and specific items of concern are pointed out by personnel on site. Aliso Canyon Turbine Replacement Oak Tree Mitigation – Porter Ranch, CA: Arborist for the Aliso Canyon Turbine Replacement Project. Oak tree installation was performed at the Southern California Gas Company’s (SoCalGas') Aliso Canyon Natural Gas Storage Field located north of Porter Ranch. Trevor directed initial oak tree installation. He also oversees regular maintenance activities, conducts health evaluations of planted oaks, and directs crew activities within the project area. A planting certification report was prepared and distributed to the client documenting the success of the initial planting effort. 15City of Diamond Bar | Canyon Loop Trail HMMP Restoration Ecologist Services 16City of Diamond Bar Canyon Loop Trail HMMP Restoration Ecologist Services Sarah Thomas Biologist Sarah Thomas is a Biologist with 15 years of field experience as a Research Assistant, Field Technician and Biologist. Sarah is currently the Assistant Lead Biological Monitor for the Tehachapi Renewable Project (TRTP). She specializes in birds and has studied bird identification throughout the western United States, bird behavior, bird biology and conservation, and is proficient with nest identification in the Los Angeles and San Bernardino Counties. Sarah performs wildlife, and pre-construction surveys to document and report existing conditions, and potential biological restraints to management. Additionally, Sarah has experience working with non-profit organizations in habitat restoration of California grasslands, salt marsh and California coastal sage scrub. Experience Arroyo Seco Drainage Improvement Projects, Biological Survey Coordination and Documentation – Pasadena, CA: Biologist for a series of projects associated with the Arroyo Seco drainage improvements in Pasadena. In the Upper Arroyo Seco, projects included focused surveys for the California red-legged frog, a habitat assessment for the California gnatcatcher, nesting bird surveys, and a review of a CDFW Streambed Alteration Agreement issued for a bridge replacement project. Lower Arroyo Seco projects have consisted of nesting bird surveys, nesting raptor surveys, streambed maintenance monitoring, and individual plant identification for preservation within a restoration area. Sarah conducted least bell's vireo surveys and co-wrote the Biological Technical Report for this project. On-Call Biological Services Contract for Soft-Bottom Channels – Los Angeles County, CA: Biologist for monitoring of annual clearing activities in soft-bottom flood control channel reaches maintained by the Los Angeles County Department of Public Works (LACDPW) Flood Maintenance Division. Tasks include performing general plant surveys; mapping of the vegetation communities; pre- and post-clearing documentation of biological resources within these channel reaches; and monitoring during annual clearing activities to facilitate compliance with permits issued by the USACE, the CDFW, and the RWQCB. On-call tasks under this contract have included focused special status plant surveys, vegetation mapping, nesting bird surveys, migratory bird surveys, and focused surveys for least Bell's vireo. Santa Anita Dam Riser Modification and Sediment Removal Project Oak Woodland Habitat Mitigation Program – Arcadia, CA: Biologist for this project that involved mitigating for impacts as a result of the removal of approximately 325,000 cubic yards of sediment from the Santa Anita Dam Reservoir and placement of this sediment to one of three Sediment Placement Sites (SPSs, i.e., the Lower, Middle, and Upper SPSs). It also involved the construction of a riser on the dam’s lowest outlet to ensure compliance with State seismic safety requirements. The mitigation site is located at the Lower SPS and includes 5.5 acres of oak woodland habitat creation and 2.5 acres of sage scrub creation. The Oak Woodland Habitat Revegetation/Mitigation EDUCATION 2008/BS/Biology, Chemistry (Minor)/ California State University, Long Beach CERTIFICATIONS Independent Researcher for Psomas' CDFW Entity Scientific Collecting Permit/SC-190370007/ California Department of Fish and Wildlife/SC- 190370007 Plant Voucher Collecting Permit/2081(a)-13-108-V/ California Department of Fish and Wildlife/2081(a)- 122-026-V EXPERIENCE With Psomas for 13 years; with other firms for 2 years 16City of Diamond Bar | Canyon Loop Trail HMMP Restoration Ecologist Services 17City of Diamond Bar Canyon Loop Trail HMMP Restoration Ecologist Services Sarah Thomas (Continued) Program (OWHMP) was developed in coordination with the client and resource agency staff and in compliance with agency requirements for the establishment of oak woodland habitat. The project also includes monitoring initial installation, as well as maintenance activities and site performance during the required ten-year maintenance and monitoring program. Monitoring activities consist of regular qualitative and quantitative site examinations and the development of site-status documentation. Sarah has helped to supervise a restoration specialist contractor for a variety of site preparation, site installation, and long-term maintenance activities. She also conducts nesting bird surveys prior to maintenance activities. Debris Basin Services – Los Angeles County, CA: Biologist for a variety of environmental, cultural resources, and biological resources services for debris basins and soft-bottom channels maintained by the LADPW within the Los Angeles, San Gabriel, and Santa Clara River Watersheds. Sarah was a Biologist for these habitat assessments that determined the potential for special status plant and wildlife species to occur at each debris basin for compilation of biological information into CEQA documentation that was used to obtain a Long-Term Streambed Alteration Agreement permit from the CDFW for the LACDPW annual maintenance activities at 162 debris basins from August 18, 2011, to December 31, 2029. Claremont Wilderness Park Master Plan – Claremont, CA: Biologist for the 1,704-acre Claremont Hills Wilderness Park (CHWP) Master Plan study area, located on the southern slopes of the San Gabriel Mountains between residential neighborhoods in the City of Claremont and wilderness areas of the Angeles National Forest. Sarah assisted in mapping the vegetation communities and general plant surveys, describing current conditions, analyzing the potential for various special status plant and wildlife species to occur, identify and discuss prominent land management issues, and provide recommendations for long-term management of the biological resources on the site as part of a Resource Management Plan to support the development of a comprehensive CHWP Master Plan by MIG Inc. for the City of Claremont. White Point Landslide Project Biological Services – Los Angeles, CA: Biologist for the White Point Landslide project located in the community of San Pedro in the City of Los Angeles. On November 20, 2011, a large section of Paseo del Mar experienced a landslide that collapsed the roadway in the coastal bluff. The project involves the emergency repair of the section of the roadway along Paseo del Mar and a portion of the White Point Nature Preserve due to damage from the landslide. The project involved a habitat assessment and pre-construction surveys for the coastal California gnatcatcher prior to construction activities. The vegetation was mapped to describe suitable gnatcatcher habitat present on the project site. Due to the presence of gnatcatchers, focused surveys were conducted during the breeding season. Sarah accompanied the permitted Biologist on focused surveys for California gnatcatchers and follow-up monitoring throughout construction to remediate the landslide. 17City of Diamond Bar | Canyon Loop Trail HMMP Restoration Ecologist Services 18City of Diamond Bar Canyon Loop Trail HMMP Restoration Ecologist Services Jack Underwood Biologist Jack Underwood has two years of experience collecting and analyzing biological data for right-of-way and right-of-entry properties; conducting Worker Environmental Awareness Training; and conducting surveys for nesting birds and various species including the California Red Legged Frog and the Foothill Yellow Legged Frog. Jack has served as a Consulting Utility Forester studying different tree species' classifications, their life history, light and soil requirements, adaptation to new environmental conditions, and their resistance to disease and insects. Experience Malibu Middle and High School Specific Plan and LCP – Santa Monica, CA: Biologist for assisting the SMMUSD with biological resources-related tasks and multi-agency coordination in support the Specific Plan and Local Coastal Plan Amendment for the project to redevelop the former Juan Cabrillo Elementary School and Malibu Middle and High School sites. Lincoln Bridge Multi-Modal Improvements (LA TOS 27) – Los Angeles, CA: Biologist for the widening of Lincoln Boulevard from Fiji Way to Jefferson Boulevard to provide capacity for future light rail transit, with three vehicle lanes in each direction, Class II bicycle lanes, and sidewalks on both sides of the bridge. The project includes replacement of the Lincoln Boulevard Bridge over Ballona Creek, and replacement of the Culver Boulevard overpass while minimizing impacts to the creek and wetlands. Biological Monitoring at Sandlot – Los Angeles County, CA: Biologist for monitoring and conducting sweep of an AV sandlot prior to Autonomy Productions filming, which was required by the County of Los Angeles Department of Regional Planning. Identified nesting birds and other biological concerns and made efforts to minimize direct impacts to wildlife species that were present. Provided recommendation to production to further minimize impacts. Pacoima Reservoir Restoration Biological Resources Surveys/Reports – Los Angeles County, CA: Biologist for conducting biological resources surveys and preparing the associated reports. The surveys are based on the initial phase area above the dam and include additional new areas at the northern extent of the project area. 2021 SBC Maintenance/Regulatory Permit Monitoring Report – Los Angeles County, CA: Biologist for environmental permitting and compliance services for the soft-bottom channel maintenance program. Scope of work includes semi-annual focused surveys, pre-post maintenance surveys and monitoring, and permitting support. Biological Monitoring Services for Soil Bore Hole Samples – Los Angeles County, CA: Biologist to monitor for a geotechnical investigation for the Soledad Canyon Relief Trunk Sewer 4 project that involves maneuvering a geotechnical drilling rig from the Santa Clara River trail (which runs along the northern edge of the Santa Clara River) down an existing ramp into the EDUCATION 2019/BS/Environmental Biology and Natural History/The Master's University, Santa Clarita CERTIFICATIONS Scientific Collecting Permit/SC-212150001/ California Department of Fish and Wildlife/SC- 212150001 EXPERIENCE With Psomas for 2 years; with other firms for 2 years 18City of Diamond Bar | Canyon Loop Trail HMMP Restoration Ecologist Services 19City of Diamond Bar Canyon Loop Trail HMMP Restoration Ecologist Services Jack Underwood (Continued) riverbed. Soil samples were collected via geotechnical boring (sonic drilling) to a depth of approximately 40 feet at three locations in the Santa Clara River. Boring activities occurred for up to two days per test hole location, for a total duration of three to six days. Conducted a nesting bird survey prior to project activities and was present throughout the project to provide guidance for minimizing impacts to vegetation and avoid potentially sensitive habitat areas. Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, Victorville to McCullough Electric Transmission Jurisdictional Delineation – Victorville, CA: Biologist for a jurisdictional delineation project located in San Bernardino County, California. 19City of Diamond Bar | Canyon Loop Trail HMMP Restoration Ecologist Services 20City of Diamond Bar Canyon Loop Trail HMMP Restoration Ecologist Services Richard B. Lewis III, ENV SP Restoration Ecologist Richard Lewis is a Senior Restoration Ecologist and Biologist with 29 years of professional experience. Richard is responsible for developing and monitoring habitat restoration and mitigation programs; conducting focused botanical surveys and vegetation mapping; and preparing community involvement and educational programs and literature. Richard is currently managing a total of 8 habitat restoration sites comprising over 119 acres of habitat, of which two sites have been occupied by federally listed wildlife species. A total of 22 habitat mitigation programs managed by Richard, totaling over 255 acres of habitat, have been signed-off by the resource agencies since March 2006. Experience Santa Anita Oak Woodland Habitat Mitigation – Arcadia, CA: Senior Project Manager and Senior Restoration Ecologist for the planning, design, and monitoring of the 8.0-acre Santa Anita Oak Woodland Habitat Mitigation Project, which serves to mitigate for impacts associated with the Santa Anita Dam Riser Modification and Reservoir Sediment Removal Project. This award- winning, innovative habitat creation program includes the salvage and re-use of tons of coarse woody debris, natural boulders, native mulch, and the placement of numerous upright ‘snags’ for wildlife value. Hundreds of native oaks and other woodland/scrub plant species were established on the site, and a high diversity of wildlife species have been observed. Psomas prepared the habitat mitigation plan (HMP) and participated in public outreach for the project. Richard manages a team of restoration contractors, landscape architects, seed collectors, and native plant specialist nurseries. Psomas performs long-term biological monitoring and documentation to assess compliance with mitigation requirements. Arroyo Seco Habitat Restoration – Pasadena, CA: Senior Project Manager and Senior Restoration Ecologist for the planning, design, and monitoring of multiple habitat creation/restoration projects in the Arroyo Seco (which is a major tributary of the Los Angeles River) for the City of Pasadena. These projects include the 881-acre Upper Arroyo Seco Habitat Enhancement Plan, the 4-acre Lower Arroyo Seco Habitat Restoration Project, the 5-acre Oak Grove Area Improvements Habitat Restoration Project, and the award-winning 5-acre Berkshire Creek Improvements Project. Richard participated in community outreach, preparation of the landscape plans and specifications, coordinated the collection and propagation of 100+ species of native seeds and plants in the local subwatersheds, and monitored restoration implementation. Mr. Lewis also led volunteer activities for multiple community and youth groups. North Yorba Linda Estates Coastal Sage Scrub Mitigation Program – Yorba Linda, CA: Senior Project Manager and Senior Restoration Ecologist for the planning, design, and monitoring of this mitigation program which included 40 acres (combined) of coastal sage scrub habitat restoration in the Puente Hills Landfill Native Habitat Preservation Area and Chino Hills State Park (CHSP) and a salvage-translocation program for the intermediate mariposa lily within the CHSP. Both coastal sage scrub mitigation sites met fifth year performance EDUCATION 1988/BS/Biology/Pacific Union College CERTIFICATIONS Envision Sustainability Professional/Institute for Sustainable Infrastructure/21728 PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS California Botanic Garden California Native Plant Society California Society for Ecological Restoration Southern California Academy of Sciences Southern California Botanists Theodore Payne Foundation for Wild Flowers and Native Plants Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation EXPERIENCE With Psomas for 24 years; with other firms for 5 years 20City of Diamond Bar | Canyon Loop Trail HMMP Restoration Ecologist Services 21City of Diamond Bar Canyon Loop Trail HMMP Restoration Ecologist Services Richard B. Lewis III, ENV SP (Continued) criteria prior to the three-year mark, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) granted early sign-off for both sites. The documentation of the federally listed Threatened coastal California gnatcatcher on both sites contributed to the USFWS’ early sign-off of the mitigation program. The City of Yorba Linda signed off on the intermediate mariposa lily mitigation program on time at the three-year mark. Three Oaks Development Mitigation Program – Walnut, CA: Senior Restoration Ecologist for this project, which included large-scale restoration of oak-walnut woodland (61 acres), coastal sage scrub (58 acres), and riparian (0.75 acre) habitats. Richard prepared mitigation plans and performed long-term monitoring of habitat establishment tasks in coordination with the landowner/developer and the restoration contractor. Oceanfront Estates Mitigation Program Habitat Mitigation Planning and Monitoring Project – Palos Verdes, CA: Senior Project Manager and Senior Restoration Ecologist for the planning, design, and monitoring of this habitat mitigation program that included 30 acres of coastal sage scrub restoration and 0.75 acre of riparian restoration. Richard supervised the detection and documentation of the federally Threatened coastal California gnatcatcher in restored coastal sage scrub habitats on site—14 years after the most recent, prior observation of the species on the property. Alton Parkway Extension Project Habitat Mitigation – Irvine and Lake Forest, CA: Senior Project Manager and Senior Restoration Ecologist for the planning, design, and monitoring of two habitat creation/restoration sites (totaling 97 acres) associated with the project. The mitigation sites exhibit high quality habitat that is occupied by multiple special status bird species including the coastal California gnatcatcher, the least Bell’s vireo, and the coastal cactus wren, along with a diversity of other wildlife species. San Diego Creek/Peters Canyon Wash Habitat Mitigation Program – Irvine, CA: Senior Project Manager and Senior Restoration Ecologist for the planning, design, and monitoring of this habitat mitigation program (HMP). The mitigation area consists of a 15-acre portion of Peters Canyon Wash located in Peters Canyon Regional Park just downstream of the Peters Canyon Reservoir. Richard prepared mitigation plans and performed long-term monitoring of habitat establishment tasks. Ongoing adaptive management led to the colonization of the site by as many as 13 seasonal territories of the State- and federally-listed Endangered least Bell’s vireo within the habitat enhancement area. Talega Development Project Mitigation Planning – Orange County, CA: Senior Project Manager and Senior Restoration Ecologist for the planning, design, and monitoring of this 133-acre coastal sage scrub mitigation program. Multiple territories of the coastal California gnatcatcher were established as the result of habitat restoration activities on the property. State Route 76 Thread-Leaved Brodiaea Mitigation Plan – San Marcos, CA: Senior Restoration Ecologist Richard for the development of the SR-76 Mitigation and Monitoring Plan for the impacted population of federally-listed Endangered thread- leaved brodiaea. Richard assisted with spring surveys for thread-leaved brodiaea on site; researched regional mitigation banking opportunities for the species; and evaluated potential mitigation sites for brodiaea in the project vicinity. 21City of Diamond Bar | Canyon Loop Trail HMMP Restoration Ecologist Services 22City of Diamond Bar Canyon Loop Trail HMMP Restoration Ecologist Services Psomas’ Senior Restoration Ecologists have over 40 years of experience working to establish native habitat areas throughout Southern California. Various habitat restoration projects have involved assessing potential mitigation sites, preparing habitat mitigation and monitoring plans, monitoring the installation and establishment of native plant communities, and preparing reports to document the successful compliance with the requirements of an approved plan. The following is a summary of recent projects we have successfully implemented for a variety of public sector clients. Alamo Heights Residential Development Project, Oak and Walnut Woodland Habitat Restoration Project Diamond Bar, CA | City of Diamond Bar, Planning Division As an approved consultant for the City of Diamond Bar Planning Division, Psomas successfully guided Horizon Pacific through the environmental analysis of their development plans for a five acre tract in the Country Estates community in Diamond Bar. Compliance with the Environmental Impact Report and other regulatory agency permits required the establishment of over 400 coast live oak, scrub oak, and Southern California black walnut trees in 4.5-acre open space parcel. Mitigation for this project required coordination with the Glendora Community Conservancy and preparation of a bid package for prospective habitat restoration contractors. Psomas has provided regular site monitoring to document the condition of the restoration site for the life of the project and has overseen the maintenance work performed by the restoration contractor to ensure project success. The project has recently completed its final year of the required maintenance period and is meeting all required performance standards. FIRM’S EXPERIENCE/REFERENCES Section 2 REFERENCE CONTACT Grace Lee City of Diamond Bar 909.839.7032 PROJECT MANAGER David Hughes 22City of Diamond Bar | Canyon Loop Trail HMMP Restoration Ecologist Services 23City of Diamond Bar Canyon Loop Trail HMMP Restoration Ecologist Services Hahamongna Watershed Park Habitat Restoration Project Pasadena, CA | Pasadena Department of Public Works Psomas prepared a habitat restoration plan and oversaw its implementation for a portion of Hahamongna Watershed Park in the City of Pasadena. The habitat restoration activities centered around the rehabilitation of a highly-eroded portion of Berkshire Creek as it flowed toward Devil’s Gate Reservoir. The Berkshire Creek program included construction of a two-tier flow design to regulate severe storm flows through the area and the subsequent installation of 2.55 acres of oak woodland habitat and 0.72 acre of coastal sage scrub. In addition to the redesigned Berkshire Creek, additional habitat restoration work was performed in the vicinity of the creek within Hahamongna Watershed Park. This additional habitat restoration work created approximately four acres of oak woodland habitat and one acre of sycamore riparian habitat. In addition to preparing the habitat restoration plans, Psomas prepared a bid package in collaboration with the City of Pasadena and directly oversaw habitat installation and maintenance work performed by the restoration contractor. Psomas also coordinated plant and seed collection by a seed collection contractor, plant propagation by a native plant nursery, monitored site preparation and installation including the removal of invasive trees and other non-native vegetation. Psomas also facilitated subsequent volunteer maintenance activities (weed abatement) on the restoration site at the direction of the City. Psomas has prepared regular monitoring reports for the City of Pasadena and has kept the project on schedule to meet all required performance standards. REFERENCE CONTACT Brett Maue City of Pasadena 626.744.7311 PROJECT MANAGER David Hughes 23City of Diamond Bar | Canyon Loop Trail HMMP Restoration Ecologist Services Before mitigation After mitigation 24City of Diamond Bar Canyon Loop Trail HMMP Restoration Ecologist Services San Diego Creek/Peters Canyon Habitat Mitigation Program Irvine, CA | Orange County Public Works To compensate for flood control impacts in the San Diego Creek watershed, Orange County (OC) Public Works acquired an approximate 23-acre area within Peters Canyon Regional Park. The habitat mitigation program consisted of habitat restoration and enhancement activities to create suitable habitat for the least Bell’s vireo. Project activities included the removal of numerous mature eucalyptus trees and the establishment of willow riparian habitat. Psomas provided restoration monitoring services during the initial installation phase of the project which included the removal of non-native vegetation, including large non-native trees, shrubs, and herbaceous species; a seven month “grow and kill” weed abatement period; and installation of native plant materials. Psomas then performed regular monitoring surveys for the entire five-year maintenance period including annual quantitative surveys to document the percent coverage of native plants to determine project compliance with required performance criteria. Annual site surveys included implementation of the physical habitat (PHab) functional site assessment method according to the California Water Boards’ Standard Operating Procedures for Collecting Benthic Macroinvertebrate Samples and Associated Physical and Chemical Data for Ambient Bioassessments in California. Psomas also performed regular wildlife surveys to document increased utilization of the mitigation site by least Bell’s vireo. The mitigation program was successfully completed within the expected five-year maintenance and monitoring period and Psomas successfully acquired regulatory agency sign-off for OC Public Works. REFERENCE CONTACT Cort DiStanislao Orange County 714.955.0263 PROJECT MANAGER Ann Johnston 24City of Diamond Bar | Canyon Loop Trail HMMP Restoration Ecologist Services 25City of Diamond Bar Canyon Loop Trail HMMP Restoration Ecologist Services Oak Woodland Habitat Mitigation Program for the Santa Anita Dam Riser Modification and Sediment Removal Project Arcadia, CA | Los Angeles County Public Works, Stormwater Engineering Division Psomas performed initiation site evaluation surveys and prepared the Oak Woodland Habitat Revegetation/ Mitigation Program in coordination with the Los Angeles County Public Works’ project engineer and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. The mitigation program is designed to revegetate a sediment placement site which received material that had collected behind Santa Anita Dam. The revegetation program involves the creation of 5.5 acres of oak woodland habitat and 2.5 acres of coastal sage scrub. The project involved coordinating with a native seed collection company and native plant specialist nurseries in the collection and propagation of site-specific seeds and container plants for the mitigation site. Ongoing site monitoring activities involve quarterly monitoring visits and annual quantitative surveys to document plant health and overall coverage. San Gabriel River Rubber Dams No. 2 and No. 3 Riparian Habitat Mitigation Program La Habra Heights, CA | Los Angeles County Public Works Psomas provided biological monitoring services during the construction of two rubber dam structures in the San Gabriel River and prepared a detailed habitat mitigation and monitoring program to offset impacts to riparian habitat that resulted from project construction. The habitat restoration program was installed on property owned by the Puente Hills Native Habitat Preservation Authority (PHNHPA). Psomas coordinated with staff from the PHNHPA and the restoration contractor to eradicate weeds from the restoration area, collect native seed local to the area, and collect locally available plant cuttings for installation. Psomas monitored the restoration site for a period of five years and documented successful compliance with all aspects of the restoration program. At the conclusion of the project, Psomas met with regulatory agency staff members to acquire final approval and program sign-off for Los Angeles County Public Works within the anticipated five-year time frame. REFERENCE CONTACT Maria Lee, PE Los Angeles County 626.458.6126 PROJECT MANAGER Richard Lewis REFERENCE CONTACT Reyna Soriano Los Angeles County 626.458.5192 PROJECT MANAGER David Hughes 25City of Diamond Bar | Canyon Loop Trail HMMP Restoration Ecologist Services 26City of Diamond Bar Canyon Loop Trail HMMP Restoration Ecologist Services Psomas has reviewed the Habitat Mitigation and Monitoring Program for the Canyon Loop Improvement Project (HMMP) and is fully aware of the various requirements to successfully implement the restoration project. We have successfully implemented several similar projects in the past and we believe that the key to a successful project is to maintain consistent communication between the client, the monitoring biologist, and the Restoration Contractor. For this project, it is our intention to foster an excellent working relationship with the Restoration Contractor so that the project is correctly installed at the outset and that any issues are addressed immediately to keep the project on track to meet all required performance standards. Quickly addressing any issues that arise is the best method to successfully establish the native habitat and to avoid requests for additional budget to remediate problematic situations. Task 1 Meetings, Management, and Coordination Psomas’ Restoration Ecologist/Senior Project Manager will provide as-needed support to the City staff in the development of a bid package and selection process to retain a Restoration Contractor for the project and to coordinate with project team members and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW). Specifically, budget for this task includes 15 hours to attend up to three site walks and prepare meeting minutes. Meeting minutes will be provided via e-mail to all pertinent project team members and one round of revisions from the City will be incorporated. Additionally, this task includes an additional 25 hours to be used with the pre-approval of the City to assist in the preparation of a contractor bid package, support in the selection of contractor, and providing any other needed support to establish accuracy and quality control of all budgets and initial project documentation. Psomas will provide project management services to coordinate a project schedule with the City and the Restoration Contractor and monitor tasks to maintain compliance with the schedule and the proposed budget. Additionally, Psomas will review technical documents to provide quality assurance. This task may also include attendance at any meeting or conference calls and to prepare any email correspondence or other memoranda to other project team members. Quickly addressing any issues that arise is the best method to successfully establish the native habitat PROJECT UNDERSTANDING Section 3 FEE PROPOSAL 26City of Diamond Bar | Canyon Loop Trail HMMP Restoration Ecologist Services 27City of Diamond Bar Canyon Loop Trail HMMP Restoration Ecologist Services Task 2 Qualitative Monitoring Psomas’ Restoration Ecology team will visit the project sites during the five-year habitat maintenance monitoring period according to the following schedule: f Monthly site visits will be performed during the first 18 months of the project (18 visits total) f Bi-monthly site visits will be performed for the following 6 months of the project (3 visits total) f Quarterly site visits will be performed for Years 3 through 5 (12 visits total) Each site visit will include a brief evaluation of plant health and survival as well as other factors that may affect plant condition such as presence of non-native species, adequacy of irrigation, soil erosion, human intrusion, need for pest control, wildlife usage, and/or removal of trash/debris. Psomas will coordinate with the Restoration Contractor during these monitoring visits on an as-needed basis to discuss the condition of the sites and any recommended alterations to maintenance activities or schedule. Problematic situations or issues of note will be documented with photographs and/ or GPS locational data. At the conclusion of each monitoring visit, Psomas will prepare a brief summary of observations and current site conditions that will be e-mailed to the City. Task 3 Quantitative Monitoring Psomas will perform an annual survey of site conditions that will consist of an assessment of survival of native plant material and coverage of native/non-native plants utilizing the relevé assessment method. Plant survival will be determined by conducting a census of container plants that were installed to calculate the percent of surviving plants to compare against the project performance standards. The number of missing, dead, and/or declining plant stock will be recorded for each plant species. Photos of each mitigation site will be taken from established photo locations to illustrate site progress toward meeting required performance standards. The first quantitative survey will occur one year after all site installation activities have been completed and will re-occur annually after that. The annual quantitative assessment will be performed concurrent with the qualitative surveys described above in Task 2, so that no additional budget for field surveys is required as part of this task. The quantitative survey results will be presented to the City by the end of each calendar year in an annual summary memorandum format. Each annual summary memorandum will summarize (1) past installation/maintenance activities; (2) observations made during that year’s qualitative surveys (including any observations of wildlife utilization); (3) quantitative data detailing native/non-native species coverage and plant survival; (4) compliance/non-compliance with project performance standards; (5) photographs illustrating site conditions and comparisons to previous years; and (6) maintenance recommendations to maximize the chances of project success. Annual summary memoranda will be emailed to the City in PDF format and one round of comments will be incorporated into a final version. 27City of Diamond Bar | Canyon Loop Trail HMMP Restoration Ecologist Services 28City of Diamond Bar Canyon Loop Trail HMMP Restoration Ecologist Services Task 4 Year 5 Annual Monitoring Report Upon completion of the final annual monitoring field survey, Psomas will prepare the Year 5 Annual Monitoring Report with the intention of summarizing all project activities to the CDFW to affect final sign-off of the restoration program by December 31st of Year 5. The Year 5 report will detail all project installation activities, subsequent replacement plantings, native and non-native plant coverage, compliance with project performance standards, site photographs from each of the previous annual monitoring surveys, and any other site maintenance and management recommendations. If any issues of non-compliance are documented in the Annual Monitoring Report, Psomas will provide a list of recommended remedial measures along with a schedule for implementation. Psomas will prepare a draft report for City review; upon receiving any comments from the City, Psomas will prepare a final version of the report for submittal by the City to the CDFW. Task 5 Direct Costs The budget for direct costs associated with this task consists of mileage reimbursement for Psomas staff to travel to the project site as well as any other minor incidental costs incurred for items intended for the benefit of the project Additional Proposed Tasks Task 6 Initial Site Installation Monitoring The project’s HMMP details a number of initial activities to be undertaken by the Restoration Contractor for site preparation and plant installation. We highly recommend that Psomas Restoration Monitor be allowed to oversee these initial activities to ensure compliance with HMMP and to document these activities for future reports. Initial site preparation and plant installation monitoring will consist of coordinating with the Restoration Contractor to: (1) collect seed or otherwise procure an appropriate native seed mix; (2) collect, store, and install cactus pads at the mitigation site; (3) check the functioning of the irrigation system to ensure proper functioning and adequate coverage; (4) flagging native plant species to be retained during initial site clearing and subsequent weed treatment; (5) assisting with the proper layout of native species installation; (6) documenting seed mix and container plant species quantities to assist in subsequent plant survival calculations; and (7) photographing initial site conditions and setting up photo station locations for long-term photo comparisons. Upon completion of site preparation and installation activities, Psomas will prepare an installation completion memorandum that will be distributed to the City and the Restoration Contractor. The purpose of the installation completion memorandum is to document successful completion of these activities and to mark the beginning of the long-term monitoring and maintenance period of the project. 28City of Diamond Bar | Canyon Loop Trail HMMP Restoration Ecologist Services 225 South Lake Avenue Suite 1000 Pasadena, CA 91101 626.351.2000 www.Psomas.com