Hirundinidae Swallows
Hirundo rustica Barn swallow
Petrochelidon pyrrhonota tachina Cliff swallow
Stelgidopteryx serripennis Northern rough-winged swallow Tachycineta thalassina Violet-green swallow
Icteridae Blackbirds
Agelaius phoeniceus Red-winged blackbird
Euphagus cyanocephalus Brewer's blackbird
Icterus bullockii Bullock's oriole
Sturnella neglecta Western meadowlark
Laniidae Shrikes
** Lanius ludovicianus Loggerhead shrike
Mimidae Mockingbirds
Mimus polyglottos Northern mockingbird
** Toxostoma redivivum California thrasher
Motacillidae Wagtails and Pipits
Anthus rubescens American pipit
Odontophoridae Quail
Callipepla californica California quail
Updated Biological Resources Assessment
Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California December 2021 RLCC-03-R187.BA5.BO11.NB4.BS2.LS1.rev2(final) 87 L&L
Parulidae Wood Warblers
Geothlypis tolmiei MacGillivray's warbler
Oreothlypis celata Orange-crowned warbler
Setophaga coronata Yellow-rumped warbler
Passerellidae New World Sparrows
** Aimophila ruficeps canescens Southern California rufous-crowned sparrow ** Artemisiospiza belli Bell's sage sparrow
Chondestes grammacus Lark sparrow
Melospiza melodia Song sparrow
Melozone crissalis California towhee
Passerculus sandwichensis Savannah sparrow
Pipilo maculatus Spotted towhee
Pooecetes gramineus Vesper sparrow
Spizella passerina Chipping sparrow
Zonotrichia leucophrys White-crowned sparrow
Passeridae Old World Sparrows
* Passer domesticus House sparrow
Picidae Woodpeckers
Colaptes auratus Northern flicker
** Dryobates (Picoides) nuttallii Nuttall's woodpecker
Polioptilidae Gnatcatchers
Polioptila caerulea Blue-gray gnatcatcher
** Polioptila californica Coastal California gnatcatcher
Strigidae Owls
** Athene cunicularia Burrowing owl
Sturnidae Starlings
* Sturnus vulgaris European starling
Timaliidae Babblers
** Chamaea fasciata Wrentit
Trochilidae Hummingbirds
Calypte anna Anna's hummingbird
** Calypte costae Costa's hummingbird
** Selasphorus rufus Rufous hummingbird
Troglodytidae Wrens
Catherpes mexicanus Canyon wren
Salpinctes obsoletus Rock wren
Thryomanes bewickii Bewick's wren
Troglodytes aedon House wren
Turdidae Thrushes
Sialia mexicana Western bluebird
Updated Biological Resources Assessment
Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California December 2021 RLCC-03-R187.BA5.BO11.NB4.BS2.LS1.rev2(final) 88 L&L
Tyrannidae Tyrant Flycatchers
Empidonax wrightii Gray flycatcher
Myiarchus cinerascens Ash-throated flycatcher
Sayornis nigricans Black phoebe
Sayornis saya Say's phoebe
Tyrannus verticalis Western kingbird
Tyrannus vociferans Cassin's kingbird
Mammals
Canidae Dogs, Foxes, and Coyotes
Canis familiaris Domestic dog
Canis latrans Coyote
Geomyidae Pocket Gophers
Thomomys bottae Botta's pocket gopher (sign)
Leporidae Rabbits
** Lepus californicus bennettii San Diego black-tailed jackrabbit Sylvilagus audubonii Audubon's cottontail
Sciuridae Squirrels
Spermophilus beecheyi California ground squirrel
INVERTEBRATES
Lepidoptera Butterflies and Moths
Papilionidae Swallowtails
Papilio rutulus Western tiger swallowtail
Papilio zelicaon Anise swallowtail
Nymphalidae Brush-footed butterflies
Euphydryas chalcedona Chalcedon checkerspot
Junonia coenia Buckeye
Vanessa cardui Painted lady
Vanessa annabella West coast lady
Vanessa virginiensis Virginia lady
Lycaenidae Blues, Hairstreaks, Coppers
Glaucopsyche lygdamus australis Southern blue
Icaricia acmon Acmon blue
Pieridae Whites and Sulfurs
Anthocharis sara Sara orange-tip
Anthocharis cethura Felder's orange-tip
Pontia protodice Checkered white
Updated Biological Resources Assessment
Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California December 2021 RLCC-03-R187.BA5.BO11.NB4.BS2.LS1.rev2(final) 89 L&L
Riodinidae Metalmarks
Apodemia mormo virgulti Behr's metalmark
Hesperiidae Skippers
Erynnis funeralis Funereal duskywing
Pyrgus communis albescens Small checkered skipper
Updated Biological Resources Assessment
Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California December 2021 RLCC-03-R187.BA5.BO11.NB4.BS2.LS1.rev2(final) 90 L&L
APPENDIX B: SPECIAL STATUS SPECIES POTENTIALS FOR OCCURRENCE Species
Growth Form,
Habitat and Distribution
Flowering
Season
Conservation
Status Potential for Occurrence
Plants
Abronia villosa var. aurita
Chaparral sand-verbena
Annual herb. Sandy soils in chaparral, coastal
scrub, desert dunes at 75-1600m elevation.
Riverside, San Bernardino, Imperial, San Diego,
Orange Cos. (presumed extirpated in Orange
Co.), Arizona, Baja.
(Jan)Mar-
Sep
Fed: None
Calif: S2
CRPR: 1B.1
Low; potentially suitable habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Allium marvinii
Yucaipa onion
Perennial bulbiferous herb. Clay soils in openings
in chaparral at 760-1065m. Riverside, San
Bernardino, Orange, San Diego Cos.
Apr-May
Fed: None
Calif: S1
CRPR: 1B.2
MSHCP: AC b
USFS: S
Not expected; potentially suitable habitat, below
elevation range, no documented occurrences within 5
mi., not observed during surveys.
Allium munzii
Munz’s onion
Perennial bulbiferous herb. Mesic, clay soils in
chaparral, cismontane woodland, coastal scrub,
pinyon juniper woodland, valley and foothill
grassland at 297-1070m elevation. Western
Riverside Co.
Mar-May
Fed: END
Calif: THR, S1
CRPR: 1B.1
MSHCP: AC b
Low; no or marginal habitat, three documented
occurrences within 5 mi. (from 1897, Menifee area –
exact location unknown, mapped 4.5 mi. NE of site;
1962, exact location unknown, mapped 2.7 mi. NW;
from 2015, 2.5 mi. SE), not observed during surveys.
Almutaster pauciflorus
Alkali marsh aster
Perennial herb. Alkaline soils in meadows and
seeps at 240 to 800m elevation. Inyo, Kern,
Riverside, and San Bernardino Cos., SW and
North-Central US, and Mexico.
Jun-Oct
Fed: None
Calif: S1S2
CRPR: 2B.2
Not expected; no or marginal habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Ambrosia pumila
San Diego ambrosia
Perennial rhizomatous herb. Sandy or clay soils,
often in disturbed areas, sometimes alkaline.
Chaparral, coastal scrub, valley and foothill
grassland, and vernal pools at 20-415m elevation.
Riverside, San Diego Co., Baja.
Apr-Oct
Fed: END
Calif: S1
CRPR: 1B.1
MSHCP: AC b
Not expected; potentially suitable habitat, above
elevation range, no documented occurrences within 5
mi., not observed during surveys.
Amsinckia douglasiana
Douglas’ fiddleneck
Annual herb. Monterey shale, dry soils in
cismontane woodland, valley and foothill
grassland at sea level to 1950m elevation.
Central coast of CA, few observations in southern
CA. Not tracked in the CNDDB.
Mar-May
Fed: None
Calif: S4
CRPR: 4.2
Not expected; no or marginal habitat, no mapped
CCH records within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Updated Biological Resources Assessment
Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California December 2021 RLCC-03-R187.BA5.BO11.NB4.BS2.LS1.rev2(final) 91 L&L
Species
Growth Form,
Habitat and Distribution
Flowering
Season
Conservation
Status Potential for Occurrence
Arctostaphylos rainbowensis
Rainbow manzanita
Perennial evergreen shrub. Chaparral at 205-
670m elevation. Riverside and San Diego Cos. Dec-Mar
Fed: None
Calif: S2
CRPR: 1B.1
MSHCP: AC
BLM: S
USFS: S
Absent; potentially suitable habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., conspicuous plant not
observed during surveys.
Astragalus pachypus var. jaegeri
Jaeger’s milk-vetch
Perennial shrub. Sandy or rocky soils in
chaparral, cismontane woodland, coastal scrub,
valley and foothill grassland at 365-975m
elevation. Riverside and San Diego Cos.
Dec-Jun
Fed: None
Calif: S1
CRPR: 1B.1
MSHCP: AC
USFS: S
BLM: S
Low; potentially suitable habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Atriplex coronata var. notatior
San Jacinto Valley crownscale
Annual herb. Alkaline soils in playas, mesic areas
of valley and foothill grassland, vernal pools at
139-500m elevation. Western Riverside Co.
Apr-Aug
Fed: END
Calif: S1
CRPR: 1B.1
MSHCP: AC d
Not expected; no suitable habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi. not observed during surveys.
Atriplex parishii
Parish’s brittlescale
Annual herb. Alkaline soils in chenopod scrub,
playas, vernal pools at 25-1900m elevation;
Riverside, San Bernardino, LA, Orange, and San
Diego Cos. and Baja. Presumed extirpated in LA,
Orange, and San Bernardino Cos.
Jun - Oct
Fed: None
Calif: S1
CRPR: 1B.1
MSHCP: AC d
USFS: S
Not expected; no suitable habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Atriplex serenana var.
davidsonii
Davidson's saltscale
Annual herb. Alkaline soils in coastal bluff scrub,
coastal scrub at 10-200m elevation; Channel
Islands, LA, Orange, Riverside, San Luis Obispo,
Santa Barbara, and Ventura Cos. Presumed
extirpated in Santa Barbara Co., possibly
extirpated in LA Co.
Apr - Oct
Fed: None
Calif: S1
CRPR: 1B.2
MSHCP: AC d
Not expected; no suitable habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Ayenia compacta
California ayenia
Perennial herb. Rocky soils in Mojavean and
Sonoran desert scrub at 150-1095m elevation.
Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego Cos.,
Arizona, Sonora and Baja Mexico.
Mar-Apr
Fed: None
Calif: S3
CRPR: 2B.3
Absent; no suitable habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Updated Biological Resources Assessment
Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California December 2021 RLCC-03-R187.BA5.BO11.NB4.BS2.LS1.rev2(final) 92 L&L
Species
Growth Form,
Habitat and Distribution
Flowering
Season
Conservation
Status Potential for Occurrence
Brodiaea filifolia
Thread-leaved brodiaea
Perennial bulbiferous herb. Often on clay soils in
chaparral openings, cismontane woodland,
coastal scrub, playas, valley and foothill
grassland, and vernal pools at 25-1120m
elevation. LA, Orange, Riverside, San
Bernardino, and San Diego Cos.; scattered in
Southern CA foothills & valleys.
Mar-Jun
Fed: THR
Calif: END, S2
CRPR: 1B.1
MSHCP: AC d
Not expected; no or marginal habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Brodiaea santarosae
Santa Rosa Basalt brodiaea
Perennial bulbiferous herb. Basalt in valley and
foothill grassland. Santa Rosa Plateau, Riverside
and San Diego Cos.
May-Jun
Fed: None
Calif: S1
CRPR: 1B.2
USFS: S
Absent; no suitable habitat, outside geographic
range, no documented occurrences within 5 mi., not
observed during surveys.
Calochortus catalinae
Catalina mariposa-lily
Perennial bulbiferous herb. Chaparral,
cismontane woodland, coastal scrub, valley and
foothill grassland at 15-700m elevation. LA,
Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, Santa
Barbara, Ventura Co, some Channel Islands. Not
tracked in CNDDB.
(Feb)Mar-
Jun
Fed: None
Calif: S3S4
CRPR: 4.2
Low; potentially suitable habitat, no mapped CCH
records within 5 mi., not observed during surveys.
Calochortus plummerae
Plummer’s mariposa lily
Perennial bulbiferous herb. Granitic rocky soils in
chaparral, cismontane woodland, coastal scrub,
lower montane coniferous forest, valley and
foothill grassland at 100-1700m elevation. LA,
Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego,
Ventura Cos.
May-Jul
Fed: None
Calif: S4
CRPR: 4.2
MSHCP: AC
Low; potentially suitable habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Calochortus weedii var. intermedius
Intermediate mariposa lily
Perennial bulbiferous herb. Rocky, calcareous
soils in chaparral, coastal scrub, valley and
foothill grassland at 105-855m elevation. LA,
Orange, San Bernardino, and western Riverside
Co.
May-Jul
Fed: None
Calif: S3
CRPR: 1B.2
USFS: S
MSHCP: AC
Low; potentially suitable habitat, two documented
occurrences within 5 mi. (2003, 3.5 mi. S; 2015, 4.2
mi. SE), not observed during surveys.
Carex buxbaumii
Buxbaum’s sedge
Perennial rhizomatous herb. Bogs and fens,
mesic meadows and seeps, marshes and
swamps at 3-3300m elevation. Most of US,
northern CA, one occurrence reported near Lake
Elsinore in Riverside Co. Not tracked in CNDDB.
Mar-Aug
Fed: None
Calif: S3
CRPR: 4.2
Absent; no suitable habitat, no mapped CCH records
within 5 mi., not observed during surveys.
Updated Biological Resources Assessment
Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California December 2021 RLCC-03-R187.BA5.BO11.NB4.BS2.LS1.rev2(final) 93 L&L
Species
Growth Form,
Habitat and Distribution
Flowering
Season
Conservation
Status Potential for Occurrence
Caulanthus simulans
Payson’s jewelflower
Annual herb. Chaparral, coastal scrub at 90-
2200m elevation. North-facing slopes and
ridgelines on sandy-granitic soils, frequently on
steep rocky slopes, in burned areas, or disturbed
sites such as streambeds. Orange, western
Riverside, San Diego Cos.
(Feb)Mar-
May(Jun)
Fed: None
Calif: S4
CRPR: 4.2
MSHCP: AC
Not expected; no or marginal habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Centromadia pungens ssp. laevis
Smooth tarplant
Annual herb. Alkaline soils in chenopod scrub,
meadows and seeps, playas, riparian woodland,
valley and foothill grassland at 0-640m elevation.
Also fallow fields, drainage ditches; mainly in SW
Riverside Co., a few sites in interior valleys of LA,
San Bernardino, San Diego Cos.
Apr-Sep
Fed: None
Calif: S2
CRPR: 1B.1
MSHCP: AC d
Moderate; potentially suitable habitat, 11 documented
occurrences within 5 mi. (1999 thru 2021, closest is
0.7 mi. NNW), not observed during surveys.
Chorizanthe leptotheca
Peninsular spineflower
Annual herb. Granitic soils and alluvial fans in
chaparral, coastal scrub, lower montane
coniferous forest at 300-1900m elevation.
Riverside, San Bernardino, LA, San Diego, Kern,
San Luis Obispo Cos., Baja. Not tracked in the
CNDDB.
May-Aug
Fed: None
Calif: S3
CRPR: 4.2
MSHCP: AC
Not expected; no or marginal habitat, one mapped
CCH record within 5 mi. (1893, mapped 2.1 mi. NE),
not observed during surveys.
Chorizanthe parryi var. parryi
Parry's spineflower
Annual herb. Sandy or rocky soils and openings
in chaparral, cismontane woodland, coastal
scrub, valley and foothill grassland at 275-1220m
elev. LA, Riverside, San Bernardino Cos.
Apr-Jun
Fed: None
Calif: S2
CRPR: 1B.1
USFS: S
BLM: S
MSHCP: AC
Moderate; potentially suitable habitat, 18 documented
occurrences within 5 mi. (1998 thru 2017, closest is
0.9 mi. SW), not observed during surveys.
Chorizanthe polygonoides var.
longispina
Long-spined spineflower
Annual herb. Often on clay soils in chaparral,
coastal scrub, meadows and seeps, valley and
foothill grassland, vernal pools at 30-1530m
elevation. Orange, Riverside, San Diego Cos.,
Baja.
Apr-Jul
Fed: None
Calif: S3
CRPR: 1B.2
MSHCP: AC
Occurs; observed on site during surveys in 2017.
Clinopodium chandleri
San Miguel savory
Perennial shrub. Rocky, gabbroic, or
metavolcanic soils in chaparral, cismontane
woodlands, coastal scrub, riparian woodland,
valley and foothill grassland at 120-1075m
elevation. Orange, Riverside, San Diego Co.,
Baja.
Mar-Jul
Fed: None
Calif: S2
CRPR: 1B.2
MSHCP: AC b
BLM: S
USFS: S
Not expected; no or marginal habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Updated Biological Resources Assessment
Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California December 2021 RLCC-03-R187.BA5.BO11.NB4.BS2.LS1.rev2(final) 94 L&L
Species
Growth Form,
Habitat and Distribution
Flowering
Season
Conservation
Status Potential for Occurrence
Convolvulus simulans
Small-flowered morning-glory
Annual herb. Clay soils, serpentinite seeps,
chaparral openings, coastal scrub, valley and
foothill grassland at 30-740m elevation. LA,
Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego
Cos. and Central CA, Baja. Not tracked in
CNDDB.
Mar-Jul
Fed: None
Calif: S4
CRPR: 4.2
MSHCP: AC
Low to moderate; potentially suitable habitat, nine
mapped CCH records within 5 mi. (1991-2018, all
about 2.5 mi. SE), not observed during surveys.
Cryptantha wigginsii
Wiggins’ cryptantha
Annual herb. Coastal scrub at 20-275m elevation,
often on clay soils. LA, Riverside, San Diego
Cos., Catalina Island, and Baja.
Feb-Jun
Fed: None
Calif: S1
CRPR: 1B.2
Not expected; potentially suitable habitat, above
elevation range, no documented occurrences within 5
mi., not observed during surveys.
Deinandra (Hemizonia) paniculata
Paniculate tarplant
Annual herb. Usually vernally mesic areas,
sometimes sandy. Coastal scrub, valley and
foothill grassland, vernal pools at 25-940m
elevation. LA, Orange, Riverside, San
Bernardino, San Diego, Ventura, Kern, Santa
Barbara, San Luis Obispo Cos., Baja. Not tracked
in the CNDDB.
(Mar)
Apr-Nov
Fed: None
Calif: S4
CRPR: 4.2
Low; potentially suitable or marginal habitat, no
documented occurrences within 5 mi., not observed
during surveys.
Dodecahema leptoceras
Slender-horned spineflower
Annual herb. Open, sandy alluvial benches in
valleys & canyons. Chaparral, coastal scrub
(alluvial fans), cismontane woodland at 200-760m
elevation. LA, Riverside, San Bernardino Cos.
Apr-Jun
Fed: END
Calif: END, S1
CRPR: 1B.1
MSHCP: AC b
Not expected; no suitable habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Dudleya multicaulis
Many-stemmed dudleya
Perennial herb. Often on clay soils in chaparral,
coastal scrub, valley and foothill grassland at 15-
790m elevation. LA, Orange, Riverside, San
Bernardino, San Diego Cos.
Apr-Jul
Fed: None
Calif: S2
CRPR: 1B.2
USFS: S
MSHCP: AC b
Not expected; no or marginal habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Eryngium aristulatum var. parishii
San Diego button-celery
Annual/perennial herb. Mesic areas in coastal
scrub, valley and foothill grassland, vernal pools
at 20-620m elevation. Riverside, LA, Orange, San
Diego Cos. and Baja.
Apr-Jun
Fed: END
Calif: END, S1
CRPR: 1B.1
MSHCP: AC
Not expected; no or marginal habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Erythranthe diffusa
Palomar monkeyflower
Annual herb. Sandy or gravelly soils in chaparral,
lower montane coniferous forest at 1220-1830m
elevation. Orange, Riverside, San Diego Co.,
Baja. Not tracked in the CNDDB.
Apr-Jun
Fed: None
Calif: S3
CRPR: 4.3
Absent; no or marginal habitat, well below elevation
range, no mapped CCH records within 5 mi., not
observed during surveys.
Geothallus tuberosus
Campbell’s liverwort
Ephemeral liverwort. Grows on soil in mesic
coastal scrub, vernal pools at 10-600m elevation.
Riverside and San Diego Cos.
Not
applicable
Fed: None
Calif: S2
CRPR: 1B.1
Absent; no suitable habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Updated Biological Resources Assessment
Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California December 2021 RLCC-03-R187.BA5.BO11.NB4.BS2.LS1.rev2(final) 95 L&L
Species
Growth Form,
Habitat and Distribution
Flowering
Season
Conservation
Status Potential for Occurrence
Harpagonella palmeri
Palmer’s grapplinghook
Annual herb. Clay soils and open grassy areas
within shrubland in chaparral, coastal scrub,
valley and foothill grassland at 20-955m
elevation. LA, Orange, Riverside, San Diego Co.,
Catalina Island, AZ, Baja and Sonora, Mexico.
Mar-May
Fed: None
Calif: S3
CRPR: 4.2
MSHCP: AC
Not expected; no or marginal habitat, one
documented occurrence within 5 mi. (1981, 2.4 mi.
SE), not observed during surveys.
Hesperocyparis forbesii
Tecate cypress
Perennial evergreen tree. Clay, gabbroic, or
metavolcanic soils in closed-cone coniferous
forest, chaparral at 80-1500m elevation. Orange,
Riverside, San Diego Co., Baja.
Not
applicable
Fed: None
Calif: S2
CRPR: 1B.1
Absent; no or marginal habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., conspicuous plant not
observed during surveys.
Holocarpha virgata ssp. elongata
Graceful (curving) tarplant
Annual herb. Chaparral, cismontane woodland,
coastal scrub, valley and foothill grassland at 60-
1100m elevation. Orange, Riverside, San Diego
Cos. Known in Riverside County only from the
Santa Rosa Plateau. Not tracked in CNDDB.
May-Nov
Fed: None
Calif: S3
CRPR: 4.2
MSHCP: AC
Not expected; potentially suitable habitat, outside
geographic range, no mapped CCH records within 5
mi., not observed during surveys.
Hordeum intercedens
Vernal barley
Annual grass. Saline flats and depressions in
valley and foothill grassland, vernal pools, coastal
dunes, coastal scrub at 5-1000m elevation. LA,
Orange, Riverside, San Diego Cos., Central CA,
Channel Islands. Not tracked in the CNDDB.
Mar-Jun
Fed: None
Calif: S3S4
CRPR: 3.2
MSHCP: AC
Absent; no suitable habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Juglans californica
Southern California black walnut
Perennial deciduous tree. Alluvial soils in
chaparral, cismontane woodland, coastal scrub,
riparian woodland at 50-900m elevation. LA,
Orange, Riverside, Santa Barbara, San
Bernardino, San Diego, Ventura Cos., Central
and Northern CA. Not tracked in CNDDB.
Mar-Aug
Fed: None
Calif: S4
CRPR: 4.2
MSHCP: AC
Occurs; observed onsite during surveys.
Juncus acutus ssp. leopoldii
Southwestern spiny rush
Perennial rhizomatous herb. Mesic coastal dunes,
alkaline seeps, coastal salt marshes at 3-900m
elevation. S CA, central coast, AZ, NV, other
areas. Not tracked in CNDDB.
(Mar)May-
Jun
Fed: None
Calif: S4
CRPR: 4.2
Absent; no suitable habitat, no mapped CCH records
within 5 mi., not observed during surveys.
Juncus luciensis
Santa Lucia dwarf rush
Annual herb. Chaparral, Great Basin scrub, lower
montane coniferous forest, meadows and seeps,
vernal pools at 300-2040m elevation. Riverside
and San Diego Cos., central and northern CA.
Apr-Jul
Fed: None
Calif: S3
CRPR: 1B.2
USFS: S
Not expected; no or marginal habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Updated Biological Resources Assessment
Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California December 2021 RLCC-03-R187.BA5.BO11.NB4.BS2.LS1.rev2(final) 96 L&L
Species
Growth Form,
Habitat and Distribution
Flowering
Season
Conservation
Status Potential for Occurrence
Lasthenia glabrata spp. coulteri
Coulter’s goldfields
Annual herb. Coastal salt marshes and swamps,
playas, vernal pools at 1-1220m elevation.
Riverside, San Bernardino, LA, Orange, Ventura
Cos., Central and Northern CA, Baja. Presumed
extirpated in LA, San Bernardino Cos.
Feb-Jun
Fed: None
Calif: S2
CRPR: 1B.1
BLM: S
MSHCP: AC d
Absent; no suitable habitat, three documented
occurrences within 5 mi. (2003, 1.7 mi. N, appears to
be developed; 2011, 3.3 mi. SE; 2015, 2.7 mi. NW),
not observed during surveys.
Lathyrus splendens
Pride-of-California
Perennial herb. Chaparral at 200-1525m
elevation. LA, Riverside, San Bernardino Cos.,
Baja. Not tracked in CNDDB.
Mar-Jun
Fed: None
Calif: S4
CRPR: 4.3
Not expected; potentially marginal habitat, no
mapped CCH records within 5 mi., not observed
during surveys.
Lepidium virginicum var. robinsonii
Robinson's pepper-grass
Annual herb. Chaparral, coastal scrub at 1-885m
elevation. LA, Orange, Riverside, San
Bernardino, San Diego, Ventura, Santa Barbara,
Mono Cos., Channel Islands, Baja.
Jan-Jul
Fed: None
Calif: S3
CRPR: 4.3
Low; potentially suitable habitat, two documented
occurrences within 5 mi. (2006, 2.0 mil SSW; 2008,
3.3 mi. N), not observed during surveys.
Lilium humboldtii ssp. ocellatum
Ocellated Humboldt lily
Perennial bulbiferous herb. Openings in
chaparral, cismontane woodland, coastal scrub,
lower montane coniferous forest, riparian
woodland at 30-1800m elevation. LA, Orange,
Riverside, Santa Barbara, San Bernardino, San
Diego, Ventura Co, some Channel Islands. Lower
stream benches in riparian corridors in lower
montane coniferous forest and coastal chaparral
or shaded, dry slopes beneath a dense oak or
conifer canopy.
Mar-
Jul(Aug)
Fed: None
Calif: S4?
CRPR: 4.2
MSHCP: NAC f
Absent; no suitable habitat, no mapped CCH records
within 5 mi., not observed during surveys.
Lilium parryi
Lemon lily
Perennial bulbiferous herb. Mesic soils in upper
and lower montane coniferous forest, riparian
forest, meadows and seeps at 1220-2745m
elevation. LA, Riverside, San Bernardino, San
Diego Co, Arizona, Sonora Mex.
Jul-Aug
Fed: None
Calif: S3
CRPR: 1B.2
USFS: S
MSHCP: NAC f
Absent; no suitable habitat, well below elevation
range, no documented occurrences within 5 mi., not
observed during surveys.
Limnanthes alba ssp. parishii
Parish’s meadowfoam
Annual herb. Vernally mesic areas in lower
montane coniferous forest, meadows and seeps,
vernal pools at 600-2000m elevation. Riverside
and San Diego Cos.
Apr-Jun
Fed: None
Calif: END, S2
CRPR: 1B.2
USFS: S
BLM: S
MSHCP: AC
Absent; no suitable habitat, below elevation range, no
documented occurrences within 5 mi., not observed
during surveys.
Updated Biological Resources Assessment
Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California December 2021 RLCC-03-R187.BA5.BO11.NB4.BS2.LS1.rev2(final) 97 L&L
Species
Growth Form,
Habitat and Distribution
Flowering
Season
Conservation
Status Potential for Occurrence
Microseris douglasii ssp. platycarpha
Small-flowered microseris
Annual herb. Clay soils in cismontane woodland,
coastal scrub, valley and foothill grassland, vernal
pools at 15-1070m elevation. LA, Orange,
Riverside, San Diego Cos., Channel Islands,
Baja. Not tracked in CNDDB.
Mar-May
Fed: None
Calif: S4
CRPR: 4.2
MSHCP: AC
Low; potentially suitable habitat, eight mapped CCH
records within 5 mi. (2000, 1.5 mi. N, 1996, 2.7 mi.
WSW; 1992-2015, all about 2.5 mi. SE), not observed
during surveys.
Monardella hypoleuca ssp. intermedia
Intermediate monardella
Perennial rhizomatous herb. Chaparral,
cismontane woodlands, sometimes lower
montane coniferous forest at 400-1250m
elevation. Orange, Riverside, San Diego Co.
Apr-Sep
Fed: None
Calif: S2?
CRPR: 1B.3
Not expected; potentially marginal habitat, no
documented occurrences within 5 mi., not observed
during surveys.
Myosurus minimus ssp. apus
Little mousetail
Annual herb. Valley and foothill grasslands,
alkaline vernal pools at 20-640m elevation.
Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego Cos.,
Central and Northern CA, Oregon, Baja.
Mar-Jun
Fed: None
Calif: S2
CRPR: 3.1
MSHCP: AC d
Absent; no suitable habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Nama stenocarpa
Mud nama
Annual/perennial herb. Found in marshy habitat
on lake margins and riverbanks at 5-500m
elevation. S CA, San Clemente Island, central
CA, AZ, TX, Baja, Sonora.
Mar-Oct
Fed: None
Calif: S1S2
CRPR: 2B.2
MSHCP: AC d
Absent; no suitable habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Navarretia fossalis
Spreading navarretia
Annual herb. Chenopod scrub, shallow freshwater
marshes and swamps, playas, vernal pools at 30-
655m elevation. LA, Riverside, San Diego, San
Luis Obispo Cos., Baja.
Apr-Jun
Fed: THR
Calif: S2
CRPR: 1B.1
MSHCP: AC b
Absent; no suitable habitat six documented
occurrences within 5 mi. (1922, exact location
unknown, mapped 1.0 mi. SE; 2001-2017, closest is
1.6 mi. N, appears to have been developed), not
observed during surveys.
Navarretia prostrata
Prostrate vernal pool navarretia
Annual herb. Mesic areas in coastal scrub, valley
and foothill grassland (alkaline), meadows and
seeps, vernal pools at 3-1210m elevation.
Locations in northern, central, and southern CA.
Apr-Jun
Fed: None
Calif: S2
CRPR: 1B.2
MSHCP: AC d
Absent; no suitable habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Orcuttia californica
California Orcutt grass
Annual grass. Vernal pools at 15-660m elevation.
LA, Orange, Riverside, San Diego, Ventura Co.,
Baja.
Apr-Aug
Fed: END
Calif: END, S1
CRPR: 1B.1
MSHCP: AC b
Absent; no suitable habitat, three documented
occurrences within 5 mi. (1941, exact location
unknown, mapped 1.2 mi. NNE, possibly extirpated;
2001, 1.8 mi. ESE; 2015, 1.8 mi. E), not observed
during surveys.
Polygala cornuta var. fishiae
Fish’s milkwort
Perennial deciduous shrub. Chaparral,
cismontane woodland, riparian woodlands at 100-
1000m elevation. LA, Orange, Riverside, Santa
Barbara, San Diego, and Ventura Co., Baja. Not
tracked in CNDDB.
May-Aug
Fed: None
Calif: S4
CRPR: 4.3
MSHCP: AC
Absent; potentially marginal habitat, no mapped CCH
records within 5 mi., not observed during surveys.
Updated Biological Resources Assessment
Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California December 2021 RLCC-03-R187.BA5.BO11.NB4.BS2.LS1.rev2(final) 98 L&L
Species
Growth Form,
Habitat and Distribution
Flowering
Season
Conservation
Status Potential for Occurrence
Pseudognaphalium leucocephalum
White rabbit-tobacco
Perennial herb. Sandy or gravelly soils in
chaparral, cismontane woodland, coastal scrub,
riparian woodland at 0-2100m elevation. LA,
Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego,
Ventura Cos., AZ, NM, TX, Baja and Sonora Mex.
(Jul)Aug-
Nov(Dec)
Fed: None
Calif: S2
CRPR: 2B.2
Low; potentially suitable habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Quercus engelmannii
Engelmann oak
Perennial deciduous tree. Chaparral, cismontane
woodland, riparian woodland, valley and foothill
grassland at 50-1300m elevation. Mostly in
foothills of Orange, west Riverside, San
Bernardino, and San Diego Counties, also
southeast San Gabriel Mountain foothills (LA
County). Not tracked in the CNDDB.
Mar-Jun
Fed: None
Calif: S3
CRPR: 4.2
Absent; potentially suitable habitat, conspicuous plant not observed during surveys.
Romneya coulteri
Coulter’s matilija poppy
Large perennial rhizomatous herb. Often in burn
areas in chaparral, coastal scrub at 20-1200m
elevation. LA, Orange, Riverside, San
Bernardino, San Diego, San Luis Obispo Cos.
Not tracked in CNDDB.
Mar-
Jul(Aug)
Fed: None
Calif: S4
CRPR: 4.2
MSHCP: AC
Absent; no or marginal habitat, conspicuous plant not
observed during surveys.
Scutellaria bolanderi ssp.
austromontana
Southern mountains skullcap
Perennial rhizomatous herb. Mesic areas in
chaparral, cismontane woodland, lower montane
coniferous forest at 425-2000m elevation. Often
in meadows and along streams. LA, Riverside,
San Bernardino, San Diego Cos. Presumed
extirpated in LA and San Bernardino Cos.
Jun-Aug
Fed: None
Calif: S3
CRPR: 1B.2
USFS: S
Absent; no suitable habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Sibaropsis hammittii
Hammitt’s clay-cress
Annual herb. Clay soils in chaparral openings,
valley and foothill grassland at 720-1065m
elevation. Riverside and San Diego Co.
Mar-Apr
Fed: None
Calif: S2
CRPR: 1B.2
USFS: S
MSHCP: AC b
Absent; no or marginal habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., below elevation range, not
observed during surveys.
Sidalcea neomexicana
Salt spring checkerbloom
Perennial herb. Alkaline, mesic soils in chaparral,
coastal scrub, lower montane coniferous forest,
Mojavean desert scrub, playas at 15-1530m
elevation. Kern, LA, Orange, Riverside, San
Bernardino, San Diego, Ventura Cos., western
US, Sonora Mex. Presumed extirpated in LA Co.
Mar-Jun
Fed: None
Calif: S2
CRPR: 2B.2
USFS: S
Absent; no suitable habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Sphaerocarpos drewiae
Bottle liverwort
Ephemeral liverwort. Grows on soil in openings in
chaparral and coastal scrub at 90-600m
elevation. Riverside and San Diego Cos.
Not
applicable
Fed: None
Calif: S1
CRPR: 1B.1
Not expected; potentially suitable habitat, no
documented occurrences within 5 mi., not observed
during surveys.
Updated Biological Resources Assessment
Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California December 2021 RLCC-03-R187.BA5.BO11.NB4.BS2.LS1.rev2(final) 99 L&L
Species
Growth Form,
Habitat and Distribution
Flowering
Season
Conservation
Status Potential for Occurrence
Symphyotrichum defoliatum
San Bernardino aster
Perennial rhizomatous herb. Near ditches,
streams, springs in cismontane woodland, coastal
scrub, lower montane coniferous forest, meadows
and seeps, marshes and swamps, valley and
foothill grasslands (vernally mesic) at 2-2040m
elevation. LA, Orange, Riverside, San
Bernardino, San Diego, Imperial, Kern, Santa
Barbara, San Luis Obispo Cos.
Jul-Nov
Fed: None
Calif: S2
CRPR: 1B.2
USFS: S
BLM: S
Absent; no suitable habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Texosporium sancti-jacobi
Woven-spored lichen
Crustose lichen. Grows on soil, small mammal
pellets, dead twigs, and Selaginella species, in
chaparral openings at 60-660m elevation. LA,
Riverside, San Diego, Ventura, Santa Barbara,
San Benito Cos., San Clemente Island, ID, OR,
WA.
Not
applicable
Fed: None
Calif: S2
CRPR: 3
Not expected; no or marginal habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Tortula californica
California screw-moss
Moss. Sandy soil in chenopod scrub, valley and
foothill grassland at 10-1460m elevation. LA,
Riverside, San Diego, Ventura Cos., Central and
Northern CA, Channel Islands.
Not
applicable
Fed: None
Calif: S2?
CRPR: 1B.2
BLM: S
Absent; no suitable habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Trichocoronis wrightii var wrightii
Wright’s trichocoronis
Annual herb. Alkaline soils in meadows and
seeps, marshes and swamps, riparian forest,
vernal pools at 5-435m elevation. Riverside Co.,
Central Valley, TX, Baja.
May-Sep
Fed: None
Calif: S1
CRPR: 2B.1
MSHCP: AC b
Absent; no suitable habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Viguiera laciniata
San Diego County viguiera
Perennial shrub. Chaparral, coastal scrub at 60-
750m elevation. Riverside, Orange, San Diego
Cos (occurrences outside of San Diego Co are
introduced), Baja and Sonora, Mexico. Not
tracked in CNDDB.
Feb-
Jun(Aug)
Fed: None
Calif: S4
CRPR: 4.3
Absent; potentially suitable habitat, no mapped CCH
records within 5 mi., not observed during surveys.
References: CDFW (2021a, 2021c), USFWS (2021), CNPS (2021), Dudek (2003), RCA (2020)
Updated Biological Resources Assessment
Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California December 2021 RLCC-03-R187.BA5.BO11.NB4.BS2.LS1.rev2(final) 100 L&L
Species Habitat and Distribution
Conservation
Status Potential for Occurrence
Invertebrates
Bombus crotchii
Crotch bumble bee
Coastal CA E to Sierra-Cascade crest & S into Mexico.
Open grassland and scrub habitats. Food plant genera
include Antirrhinum, Asclepias, Chaenactis, Lupinus,
Medicago, Salvia, Phacelia, Clarkia, Dendromecon,
Eschscholzia, and Eriogonum. Lives in colonies that
may be underground in rodent holes or above ground
in rock piles, tree cavities, etc.
Fed: None
Calif: SA3, S1S2
Low to moderate; potentially suitable habitat, food
plants present, two documented occurrences within 5
mi. (2001, 1.5 mi. WNW; 1975, exact location
unknown, mapped 3.5 mi. NW), no bee colonies
incidentally observed during surveys.
Branchinecta lynchi
Vernal pool fairy shrimp
Vernal pools or similar vernal habitats, requires cool
water pools (≤50ºF to hatch, ≤75ºF to survive);
disjunct locations in Riverside Co. and the Coast
Ranges thru Central Valley to Tehama Co., southern
Oregon, up to elevation of 1159m.
Fed: THR
Calif: SA, S3
MSHCP: AC a
Absent; no suitable habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi.
Branchinecta sandiegonensis
San Diego fairy shrimp
Vernal pool complexes; endemic to San Diego and
Orange County mesas. One occurrence in Murrieta is
a transplant to a mitigation pool outside of native
range.
Fed: END
Calif: SA, S2
Absent; no suitable habitat, one documented
occurrence within 5 mi. (2017, Clayton Ranch
Mitigation Site; transplant outside of native range).
Cincindela senilis frosti
Senile tiger beetle
Coastal salt marshes, tidal mud flats, interior alkali
mud flats. CA and northern Mexico, San Diego Co. to
Sonoma and Lake Co.
Fed: None
Calif: SA, S1
Absent; no suitable habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi.
Danaus plexippus pop. 1
Monarch butterfly California overwintering population.
Fed: CAN
State: SA, S2S3
USFS: S (Los
Padres NF)
Absent; individual butterflies may be present, but too
far inland for overwintering.
3 Crotch bumble bee was previously a candidate for state listing, but t he Sacramento Superior Court ruled that insects are not eligible for listing under the California Endangered Species Act: Almond Alliance of California v. California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Sacramento Superior Court No. 34-2019-80003216 (Nov. 13, 2020). The California Fish and Game Commission filed an intent to appeal this decision in February 2021.
The status of this species may be affected by subsequent litigation or changes to regulations.
Updated Biological Resources Assessment
Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California December 2021 RLCC-03-R187.BA5.BO11.NB4.BS2.LS1.rev2(final) 101 L&L
Species Habitat and Distribution
Conservation
Status Potential for Occurrence
Euphydryas editha quino
Quino checkerspot butterfly
Coastal scrub, open chaparral, juniper woodland,
native grassland. Western Riverside Co., southern
San Diego Co., Baja. Flight season from mid-Jan to
late May. Host plants are dwarf plantain (Plantago
erecta), purple owl’s clover (Castilleja exserta), white snapdragon (Antirrhinum coulterianum), wooly plantain
(Plantago patagonica), thread-leaved bird’s beak
(Cordylanthus rigidus). USFWS considers species
extirpated in San Bernardino Co.
Fed: END
Calif: SA, S1S2
MSHCP: AC
Low; potentially marginal habitat, one host plant
species present (Plantago erecta), 11 documented
occurrences within 5 mi. (1997-2003, closest is 2.6
mi. SE), not observed during focused surveys in 2004
and not incidentally observed during later surveys.
Linderiella occidentalis
California linderiella
Vernal pools, seasonal pools in unplowed grasslands
with old alluvial soils underlain by hardpan or in
sandstone depressions. Water in the pools has very
low alkalinity, conductivity, and total dissolved solids.
N and Central CA, Riverside (Santa Rosa Plateau)
and Ventura Cos.
Fed: None
Calif: SA, S2S3
Absent; no suitable habitat, outside known
geographic range.
Linderiella santarosae
Santa Rosa Plateau fairy shrimp
Found only in the basalt vernal pools on Santa Rosa
Plateau in Riverside County.
Fed: None
Calif: SA, S1
MSHCP: AC a
Absent; no suitable habitat, outside known
geographic range.
Neolarra alba
White cuckoo bee
Cleptoparasitic in the nests of perdita bees. Known
only from localities in Southern California. All
occurrences are historical.
Fed: None
Calif: SA, SH
Not expected; no documented occurrences within 5
mi., all occurrences are historical.
Socalchemmis icenoglei
Icenogle’s socalchemmis spider
Coastal scrub; known only from the type locality in the vicinity of Winchester, Riverside Co.
Fed: None
Calif: SA, S1
Not expected; no documented occurrences within 5
mi.
Streptocephalus woottoni
Riverside fairy shrimp
Endemic to Western Riverside, Orange, and San
Diego counties in areas of tectonic swales/earth slump
basins in grassland and coastal sage scrub. Coastal
scrub, valley & foothill grassland, vernal pool, wetland.
Inhabit seasonally astatic pools filled by winter/spring rains. Hatch in warm water later in the season.
Generally restricted to pools greater than 12 inches
deep. All known populations lie between 30 and 415
meters elevation.
Fed: END
Calif: SA, S1S2
MSHCP: AC a
Absent; no suitable habitat, 8 documented
occurrences within 5 mi. (2002-2017, closest extant
is 1.8 mi. ESE).
Fish
Gila orcuttii
Arroyo chub
Slow-moving or backwater sections of warm/ cool
streams with mud or sand substrates. LA, San
Gabriel, San Luis Rey, Santa Ana & Santa Margarita
Riv & Malibu & San Juan creeks.
Fed: None
Calif: SSC, S2
MSHCP: AC
USFS: S
Absent; no perennial aquatic habitat.
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Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California December 2021 RLCC-03-R187.BA5.BO11.NB4.BS2.LS1.rev2(final) 102 L&L
Species Habitat and Distribution
Conservation
Status Potential for Occurrence
Amphibians
Anaxyrus californicus
Arroyo toad
Washes & intermittent streams of semi-arid regions,
sandy-banked rivers, riparian woodlands, & loose
gravel. Rivers with sandy banks, willows,
cottonwoods, and sycamores; loose, gravelly areas of
streams in drier parts of range, below 4600 ft.
Southern California to tip of Baja California. Desert
pop. along Mojave River.
Fed: END
Calif: SSC, S2S3
MSHCP: AC c
Absent; no suitable habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Rana draytonii
California red-legged frog
Lowlands and foothills in or near permanent sources
of deep water with dense, shrubby or emergent
riparian vegetation. Requires 11-20 weeks of
permanent water for larval development. Must have
access to estivation habitat.
Fed: THR
Calif: SSC, S2S3
MSHCP: AC c
Absent; no perennial aquatic habitat.
Spea hammondii
Western spadefoot toad
Cismontane woodland, coastal scrub, valley & foothill
grassland, vernal pool. Breeds in quiet streams &
vernal pools, burrows beneath sand during dry
season. W CA, Central Valley to Baja California. From
near sea level up to 4,500 ft elev.
Fed: None
Calif: SSC, S3
BLM: S
MSHCP: AC
Absent; no suitable habitat, 17 documented
occurrences within 5 mi. (1998-2019, closest is 1.1
mi. NE), not observed during surveys.
Taricha torosa
Coast Range newt
Valley-foothill hardwood and hardwood-conifer,
coastal scrub, chaparral, grassland, mixed conifer.
Coast Ranges from N San Diego Co. to central
Mendocino Co., southern Sierra Nevada foothills S of
Kaweah River. Spends most of the year in
subterranean refuges, migrates to aquatic breeding
areas in the fall and returns in the spring.
Fed: None
Calif: SSC, S4
MSHCP: AC
Absent; no suitable aquatic breeding habitat on or
adjacent to the site, no documented occurrences
within 5 mi., not observed during surveys but is
secretive.
Reptiles
Anniella stebbinsi (Anniella pulchra
pulchra)
Southern California legless lizard
Various habitats, mainly shrublands, <6500 ft. elev.
Coast Ranges from Bay area to N Baja CA, SW Sierra
Nevada, parts of the Central Valley, Transverse &
Peninsular Ranges.
Fed: None
Calif: SSC, S3
USFS: S
Low to moderate; potentially suitable habitat, one
documented occurrence within 5 mi. (2011, 3.9 mi.
SW), not observed during surveys but is secretive.
Arizona elegans occidentalis
California glossy snake
Arid scrub, rocky washes, grasslands, chaparral, often
with loose or sandy soils. Patchily distributed from the eastern portion of San Francisco Bay, southern San
Joaquin Valley, and the Coast, Transverse, and
Peninsular Ranges, south to Baja California. Sea level
to 7200’ elev. Nocturnal.
Fed: None
Calif: SSC, S2
Low; potentially marginal habitat, three documented
occurrences within 5 mi. (1977, exact location
unknown, mapped 3.4 mi. NW; 1946, exact location
unknown, mapped 4.7 mi. SW; 1946, exact location
unknown, mapped 4.2 mi. W), not observed during
surveys but is nocturnal.
Updated Biological Resources Assessment
Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California December 2021 RLCC-03-R187.BA5.BO11.NB4.BS2.LS1.rev2(final) 103 L&L
Species Habitat and Distribution
Conservation
Status Potential for Occurrence
Aspidoscelis hyperythra
Orange-throated whiptail
Low-elevation coastal scrub, chaparral, valley-foothill hardwood, sea level to 1040m. Sandy areas, patches
of rock. S CA, west of desert to tip of Baja CA.
Fed: None
Calif: WL, S2S3
USFS: S
MSHCP: AC
Occurs; observed on the site during surveys.
Aspidoscelis tigris stejnegeri
Coastal whiptail
Primarily hot, dry open areas with sparse foliage,
chaparral, woodland, riparian; coastal So CA, mostly
west of Peninsular Ranges and south of Transverse
Ranges, north into Ventura County, below ±7000’
elev. and into Baja.
Fed: None
Calif: SSC, S3
MSHCP: AC
Occurs; observed on the site during surveys.
Coleonyx variegatus abbotti
San Diego banded gecko
Rock outcrops in shrublands, to 5000’ elevation;
southwest Calif. through much of n. Baja Calif.
Fed: None
Calif: SSC, S1S2
MSHCP: AC
Low; potentially marginal habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Crotalus ruber
Red-diamond rattlesnake
Desert scrub, thorn scrub, chaparral below 4,000ft.
San Bernardino County S through most of Baja
California, Mexico.
Fed: None
Calif: SSC, S3
USFS: S
MSHCP: AC
Low; no or marginal habitat, two documented
occurrences within 5 mi. (2001, 2.5 mi. WSW; 2001,
1.5 mi. NW), not observed during surveys.
Diadophis punctatus modestus
San Bernardino ringneck snake
Open relatively rocky areas within valley-foothill
locales, mixed chaparral/annual grasslands. Prefers
moist habitats. W San Diego & Riv. Cos., SW San
Bern., Vent. & LA Cos., NW Baja CA.
Fed: None
Calif: SA, S2?
USFS: S
Low; no or marginal habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Emys marmorata
Western pond turtle
Perennial ponds, streams, marshes, irrigation ditches.
Coastal S & cent. CA, NW Baja CA, below about 4800
ft. elev. (few higher elev. pops.)
Fed: None
Calif: SSC, S3
BLM: S
USFS: S
MSHCP: AC
Absent; no perennial aquatic habitat.
Phrynosoma blainvillii
Coast horned lizard
Coastal sage scrub, low elevation chaparral, annual
grassland, riparian scrub and woodlands, desert wash,
pinyon and juniper woodland, valley and foothill
grassland, 0-2438m elevation. SW California to NW
Baja California, Mexico.
Fed: None
Calif: SSC, S3S4
BLM: S
MSHCP: AC
Occurs; observed on the site during surveys.
Salvadora hexalepis virgultea
Coast patch-nosed snake
Shrublands, washes, sandy flats, rocky areas; Santa
Barbara County through southwest Calif., to northwest
Baja Calif. Diurnal.
Fed: None
Calif: SSC, S2S3
Low; no or marginal habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Updated Biological Resources Assessment
Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California December 2021 RLCC-03-R187.BA5.BO11.NB4.BS2.LS1.rev2(final) 104 L&L
Species Habitat and Distribution
Conservation
Status Potential for Occurrence
Thamnophis hammondii
Two-striped gartersnake
Usually in or near perennial fresh water & adjacent
riparian habitat, pools in streams. SW CA & NW Baja
California. Usually in or near perennial fresh water &
adjacent riparian habitat, pools in streams. SW CA &
NW Baja California. Primarily aquatic. Diurnal. Also
active at night and at dusk during hot weather in some
areas. Can be active most of the year depending on
weather conditions. Has been found from January to
November.
Fed: None
Calif: SSC, S3S4
BLM: S
USFS: S
Absent; no suitable habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Birds
Accipiter cooperii
Cooper’s hawk
Cismontane woodland, riparian forest, riparian
woodland, upper montane coniferous forest. Forages
in open areas over scrublands; California, Mexico,
Central America. Nests in trees, often in dense
woods. Year-round resident in most of southern
California range. CNDDB only tracks nesting.
Fed: None
Calif: WL, S4
MSHCP: AC
Occurs (foraging), low (nesting); observed on the site
during surveys, no or marginal nesting habitat, no
documented occurrences (nesting) within 5 mi.
Aechmophorus clarkii
Clark’s grebe
Requires large, open waters for courtship, feeding,
and flocking, and extensive beds of tall, emergent
vegetation such as tules or cattails for nesting;
generally nests in colonies. Not tracked in CNDDB.
Fed: BCC
Calif: None
Absent (foraging and nesting); no suitable habitat,
may be seen in migration or moving between large
lakes in the region, not observed during surveys.
Agelaius tricolor
Tricolored blackbird
Breeds colonially in freshwater marshes, nomadic
among marshes and fields in winter; almost completely
endemic to Calif. Year-round resident in southern
California range. CNDDB only tracks nesting.
Fed: BCC
Calif: THR, SSC,
S1S2
BLM: S
MSHCP: AC
Low to moderate (foraging), absent (nesting);
potentially suitable wintering habitat, no suitable
nesting habitat, one documented occurrence
(nesting) within 5 mi. (2008, 4.9 mi. SE), several
eBird records in vicinity, not observed during surveys.
Aimophila ruficeps canescens
Southern California rufous-crowned
sparrow
Sparse, mixed chaparral, scrub, rocky, brushy slopes.
Central California to Baja California. Year-round
resident in southern California range.
Fed: None
Calif: WL, S3
MSHCP: AC
Occurs (foraging), high (nesting); observed on the
site during surveys, potentially suitable nesting
habitat.
Aquila chrysaetos
Golden eagle
Found in a variety of habitats from sea level to 11,500 feet, rugged open habitats preferred. Large platform
nests constructed on secluded cliffs, large trees, and
occasionally structures (i.e., electrical transmission
towers). CNDDB tracks nesting and wintering.
Fed: BGEPA, BCC
Calif: FP, WL, S3
BLM: S
MSHCP: AC
Not expected (foraging), absent (nesting); potentially
marginal foraging habitat, no suitable nesting habitat, one documented occurrence (nesting) within 5 mi.
(1974, 2.5 mi. N), multiple eBird records in vicinity
(may be seen soaring overhead), not observed
during surveys.
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Species Habitat and Distribution
Conservation
Status Potential for Occurrence
Ardea alba
Great egret
Brackish and freshwater marshes, estuary, riparian
forest, wetland. Colonial nester in large trees. Rookery sites located near marshes, tide-flats, irrigated
pastures, and margins of rivers and lakes. CNDDB
only tracks nesting colonies.
Fed: none
Calif: SA, S4
Occurs (foraging or fly over), absent (nesting);
observed onsite during surveys, no nesting habitat or
nesting colonies present.
Ardea herodias
Great blue heron
Brackish and freshwater marshes, estuary, riparian
forest, wetland. Colonial nester in tall trees, cliffsides, and sequestered spots on marshes. Rookery sites in
close proximity to foraging areas: marshes, lake
margins, tide-flats, rivers and streams, wet meadows.
CNDDB only tracks nesting colonies.
Fed: none
Calif: SA, S4
MSHCP: AC
Occurs (fly over), not expected (foraging), absent
(nesting); no or marginal foraging habitat, no suitable nesting habitat, no documented occurrences
(nesting) within 5 mi., multiple eBird records in
vicinity.
Artemisiospiza belli
Bell’s sage sparrow
Sage scrub and chaparral communities. Nests mainly
in shrubs, also in grass, and occasionally on ground
under shrub. Found in coastal sage scrub in south of
range. Central Washington southward to Baja
California, Mexico. Year-round resident in southern
CA.
Fed: BCC
Calif: WL, S3
MSHCP: AC
Occurs (foraging), high (nesting); observed on the
site during surveys, potentially suitable nesting
habitat.
Asio otus
Long-eared owl
Conifer, oak, riparian, pinyon-juniper, and desert
woodlands that are open or adjacent to grasslands,
meadows, or shrublands. Most of CA except Central
Valley, coastal LA and Orange Co., western Imperial
Co., and central Riverside Co. Very limited breeding
range in southern CA. CNDDB only tracks nesting.
Fed: None
Calif: SSC, S3?
Not expected (foraging and nesting); no or marginal
habitat, no documented occurrences (nesting) within
5 mi., no eBird records in vicinity, not observed
during surveys.
Athene cunicularia
Burrowing owl
Nests in rodent burrows, usually in grasslands.
Forages in open habitat; increasingly uncomm. in S
CA. Occurs through W US/Mex. Sparse in desert
scrub but common around irrigated lands. CNDDB
tracks burrow sites and some wintering sites.
Fed: BCC
Calif: SSC, S3
BLM: S
MSHCP: AC c
Occurs; observed on site during focused surveys in
2018. Not observed during focused surveys in 2019
and 2021.
Buteo regalis
Ferruginous hawk
Open grasslands, sagebrush flats, desert scrub, low
foothills and fringes of pinyon and juniper habitats.
Great Basin grassland and scrub, pinyon and juniper
woodlands, valley and foothill grassland. Eats mostly
lagomorphs, ground squirrels, and mice. Population
trends may follow lagomorph population cycles. Does
not breed in southern CA.
Fed: BCC
Calif: WL, S3S4
MSHCP: AC
Low (foraging), absent (nesting); potentially suitable
habitat foraging habitat (when fields are fallow),
outside of breeding range, three documented
occurrences within 5 mi. (2008, 4.1 mi. NE; 2007, 3.9
mi ENE; 2008, 2.4 mi. E), a few eBird records in
vicinity, not observed during surveys.
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Species Habitat and Distribution
Conservation
Status Potential for Occurrence
Buteo swainsoni
Swainson's hawk
Grassland/agricultural, large trees for nesting, desert scrub with Joshua tree & Fremont cottonwood
overstory, near streams & open fields. Breeds
overwhelmingly in Great Basin & Central Valley of
California. Seen in migration in southern California.
CNDDB only tracks nesting.
Fed: BCC
Calif: THR, S3
BLM: S
MSHCP: AC
Low (foraging), absent (nesting), may be seen in
migration; potentially marginal foraging habitat,
outside current breeding range, a few eBird records
in vicinity, not observed during surveys.
Calypte costae
Costa’s hummingbird
Desert and coastal scrub and chaparral in desert,
semi-desert and mountain foothills and seasonally in
mountains, adjacent open meadows and gardens.
Found in NV, UT, AZ, CA and Mexico. Year-round
resident in southern CA. CNDDB only tracks nesting.
Fed: BCC
Calif: SA, S4
Occurs (foraging), high (nesting); observed on the
site during surveys, potentially suitable nesting
habitat.
Campylorhynchus brunneicapillus
sandiegensis
Coastal cactus wren
Desert scrub and coastal sage scrub with cactus
patches; Southern CA and northwestern Baja. Non-
migratory. Pairs defend territories throughout the year.
Limited to San Diego and Orange Cos.
Fed: BCC
Calif: SSC, S3
USFS: S
MSHCP: AC
Absent (foraging and nesting); no suitable habitat,
outside current range, not observed during surveys.
Chamaea fasciata
Wrentit
Chaparral, oak woodland, shrublands, western CA,
northwestern Baja, western Oregon. Year-round
resident in southern CA range. CNDDB does not track
this species.
Fed: BCC
Calif: None
Occurs (foraging), high (nesting); observed on the
site during surveys, potentially suitable nesting
habitat.
Charadrius nivosus
Western snowy plover
Coastal beaches, sand spits, salt pans, river bars.
Coastal areas from Washington State south to Baja.
Federal listing applies only to the Pacific coastal
population. CNDDB only tracks nesting. Year-round
resident in southern CA range except for eastern
deserts where it is seen in migration.
Fed: THR, BCC
Calif: SSC, S2
Absent (foraging and nesting); no suitable habitat, no
documented occurrences (nesting) within 5 mi., no
eBird records in vicinity, not observed during surveys.
Circus hudsonius
(C. cyaneus)
Northern harrier
Open habitats with hunting perches, marshes,
meadows, grasslands, pastures, croplands, lake and
river edges. Nests on the ground. Breeds widely but
locally in North America, various portions of CA
including Central Valley, central and northern coast,
northeastern CA, and southern coastal CA. Does not
breed in most of southern CA range. CNDDB only
tracks nesting.
Fed: None
Calif: SSC, S3
MSHCP: AC
Occurs (foraging), low to moderate (nesting);
observed on the site during surveys, potentially
suitable nesting habitat, no documented occurrences
(nesting) within 5 mi.
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Species Habitat and Distribution
Conservation
Status Potential for Occurrence
Dryobates (Picoides) nuttallii
Nuttall’s woodpecker
Found in low elevation riparian and oak woodlands,
rarely in conifers. Central Valley, Transverse and
Peninsular Ranges, Coast Ranges north to Sonoma
Co., lower portions of the Cascade Range and Sierra
Nevada. Year-round resident throughout coastal
mountains of CA. Not tracked in CNDDB.
Fed: BCC
Calif: None
Occurs (foraging), moderate (nesting); observed on
the site during surveys, potentially marginal nesting
habitat.
Elanus leucurus
White-tailed kite
Breeds in woodlands and riparian forests, forages over
open terrain; Pacific Coast (Calif, northern Baja,
Oregon), other scattered localities. Year-round
resident in southern CA range. CNDDB only tracks
nesting.
Fed: None
Calif: FP, S3S4
BLM: S
MSHCP: AC
Occurs (foraging), low (nesting); observed on the site
during surveys, no or marginal nesting habitat, no
documented occurrences (nesting) within 5 mi., five
nests within 10 mi. of the site (see Section 3.4.1).
Empidonax traillii extimus
Southwestern willow flycatcher
Dense riparian forests, wet mountain meadow systems
with standing water for at least part of the breeding
season (May to July) & with ample numbers of willow
& other associated trees & shrubs. Rare & local in S
CA. SW US & N Baja California. CNDDB only tracks
nesting.
Fed: END
Calif: END, S1
MSHCP: AC a
Absent (foraging and nesting); no suitable habitat, no
documented occurrences within 5 mi., not observed
during surveys. Habitat assessment found no suitable
habitat on the site.
Eremophila alpestris actia
California horned lark
Variety of open habitats with low growing vegetation or bare ground, grasslands, rangelands, “bald” hills, mtn. meadows, open coastal plains, fallow fields, alkali
flats. Within coastal Sonoma Co. to San Diego Co.,
San Joaquin Valley & E to foothills.
Fed: None
Calif: WL, S4
MSHCP: AC
Occurs (foraging), high (nesting); observed on the
site during surveys, potentially suitable nesting
habitat.
Haliaeetus leucocephalus
Bald eagle
Breed in large trees, usually near major rivers or lakes.
Winters more widely. Wide but scattered distribution
in N America, esp. coastal regions. CNDDB tracks
nesting and wintering.
Fed: Delisted,
BGEPA, BCC
Calif: END, FP, S3
MSHCP: AC
BLM: S
USFS: S
Absent (foraging and nesting); no suitable habitat, not observed during surveys.
Icteria virens
Yellow-breasted chat
Summer resident, inhabits riparian thickets of willow
near watercourses, low dense riparian willow. Migrant
and summer resident in CA, northern CA, central
coast, eastern Central Valley, coastal southern CA,
Colorado River, western US, Canada, Mexico, Central
America. CNDDB only tracks nesting.
Fed: None
Calif: SSC, S3
MSHCP: AC
Not expected (foraging and nesting); no or marginal
habitat, no documented occurrences (nesting) within
5 mi., few eBird records in vicinity, not observed
during surveys.
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Species Habitat and Distribution
Conservation
Status Potential for Occurrence
Lanius ludovicianus
Loggerhead shrike
Open areas where small trees, shrubs, and fences can
provide suitable perches. Nests in small trees and
large shrubs. Throughout much of North America.
CNDDB only tracks nesting.
Fed: BCC
Calif: SSC, S4
MSHCP: AC
Occurs (foraging), moderate (nesting); observed on
the site during surveys, potentially suitable nesting
habitat, one documented occurrence (nesting) within
5 mi. (2007, 4.5 mi. NE).
Plegadis chihi
White-faced ibis
Freshwater wetlands, shallow lakes, wet meadows,
flooded pastures and croplands. Nests in dense, fresh
emergent wetland. Salton Sea, local winter visitor
along coast, uncommon elsewhere in southern CA
and Central Valley. CNDDB only tracks nesting
colonies.
Fed: None
Calif: WL, S3S4
MSHCP: AC
Not expected (foraging), absent (nesting); no suitable
habitat, no documented occurrences (nesting) within
5 mi., few eBird records in vicinity, not observed
during surveys.
Polioptila californica
Coastal California gnatcatcher
Sage scrub, also chaparral, grasslands, riparian
adjacent to or mixed with sage scrub below 2,500 ft
elevation. S Ventura Co. to LA, Orange, Riv., San
Bern., San D. Cos into Baja CA, Mexico.
Fed: THR
Calif: SSC, S2
MSHCP: AC
Occurs (foraging and nesting); observed on the site
during surveys including nest sites and breeding
pairs.
Selasphorus rufus
Rufous hummingbird
Breeds in open or shrubby areas, forest openings,
yards and parks. Sometimes forests, thickets,
swamps, meadows. Elev. range 0-6000 ft. Migrating
birds can be up to 12,600 ft. Wintering birds in oak,
pine, and juniper woodlands. Found in Western US
and Canada. Generally migrates through southern CA
during pre-breeding migratory season (mid-Feb to mid-
May). CNDDB only tracks nesting.
Fed: BCC
Calif: SA, S1S2
Occurs (foraging), not expected (nesting); observed
onsite during surveys, outside breeding range, no
documented occurrences (nesting) within 5 mi.
Setophaga petechia
Yellow warbler
Migrant and summer resident in southern CA.
Riparian, including willow, cottonwood, sycamore,
alder, aspen for nesting & foraging, also conifer forest.
CNDDB only tracks nesting.
Fed: BCC
Calif: SSC, S3S4
Low (foraging and nesting); potentially marginal
habitat, no documented occurrences (nesting) within
5 mi., few eBird records in vicinity, not observed
during surveys.
Spinus lawrencei
Lawrence’s goldfinch
Summer breeder, may overwinter. Coastal side of
southern and central CA, western edge of southern
deserts, east side of Central Valley into northern CA,
Colorado River, SW US and northern Mex. Valley
foothill hardwood and hardwood-conifer, desert
riparian, pinyon juniper, palm oasis, lower montane.
Nests in oaks, conifers. CNDDB only tracks nesting.
Fed: BCC
Calif: SA, S4
Occurs (foraging), low (nesting); observed on the site
during surveys, potentially suitable or marginal
nesting habitat, no documented occurrences
(nesting) within 5 mi.
Toxostoma redivivum
California thrasher
Chaparral. Coastal and foothill areas of California and NW Baja California, Mexico. Resident throughout its
range. Not tracked in CNDDB.
Fed: BCC
Calif: none
Occurs (foraging), moderate (nesting); potentially
suitable or marginal nesting habitat.
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Species Habitat and Distribution
Conservation
Status Potential for Occurrence
Vireo bellii pusillus
Least Bell’s vireo
Riparian woodlands, bottomlands. N Mex. & Baja CA
into S CA & the S mid-western US. CNDDB only
tracks nesting.
Fed: END
Calif: END, S2
MSHCP: AC a
Absent (foraging and nesting); no suitable habitat,
two documented occurrences within 5 mi. (both along
San Jacinto River - 2010, 4.6 mi. ENE; 2002, 4.2 mi.
ENE), not observed during surveys. Habitat
assessment found no suitable habitat on the site.
Xanthocephalus xanthocephalus
Yellow-headed blackbird
Marsh, swamp, wetland. Nests in freshwater emergent
wetlands with dense vegetation and deep water. Often
along borders of lakes or ponds. Nests only where
large insects are abundant. CNDDB only tracks
nesting.
Fed: None
Calif: SSC, S3
Absent (foraging and nesting); no suitable habitat,
few eBird records in vicinity, not observed during
surveys.
Mammals
Chaetodipus californicus femoralis
Dulzura pocket mouse
Variety of habitats including coastal scrub, chaparral & grassland. Attracted to grass-chaparral edges.
Chaparral, coastal scrub, valley and foothill grassland.
Fed: None
Calif: SSC, S3
Low to moderate; potentially suitable or marginal
habitat, no documented occurrences within 5 mi.
Chaetodipus (Perognathus) fallax
Northwestern San Diego pocket
mouse
Sandy herbaceous areas, usually in association with
rocks or coarse gravel, chaparral, coastal scrub,
grasslands. SW CA & NW Baja California (inland to
San Bernardino Valley).
Fed: None
Calif: SSC, S3S4
MSHCP: AC
Low to moderate; potentially marginal habitat, two
documented occurrences within 5 mi. (1992, 3.4 mi.
NE; 2009, 3.8 mi. S).
Dipodomys merriami parvus
San Bernardino kangaroo rat
Alluvial floodplains and adjacent upland habitats within the San Bernardino, Menifee, and San Jacinto valleys,
Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub.
Fed: END
Calif: CanE, SSC,
S1
MSHCP: AC c
Absent; no suitable habitat, one documented
occurrence within 5 mi. (1938, exact location
unknown, mapped 4.4 mi. NNE).
Dipodomys stephensi
Stephens' kangaroo rat
Sparse, gently sloping grassland, sometimes at
margins of cultivated or disturbed lands; prefers
grassland dominated by forbs rather than annual
grasses, prefers sparse perennial vegetation; firm soil for burrowing (not too hard or too sandy); may use
abandoned gopher burrows; W Riverside Co. and
adjacent San Diego Co. San Bernardino County
occurrences extirpated. No critical habitat has been
designated.
Fed: END
Calif: THR, S2
MSHCP: AC
High; potentially suitable habitat, 22 documented
occurrences within 5 mi. (1938-2005, closest is 1.2
mi. N).
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Species Habitat and Distribution
Conservation
Status Potential for Occurrence
Eumops perotis californicus
Western mastiff bat
Lowlands (with rare exceptions), many open, semi-arid
to arid habitats, conifer and deciduous woodlands,
coastal scrub, grasslands, chaparral. Central & S CA,
S AZ, NM, SW TX. Roosts in deep rock crevices, high
buildings, trees, and tunnels; forages over wide area.
Fed: None
Calif: SSC, S3S4
BLM: S
Low to moderate (foraging), low (roosting); potentially suitable foraging habitat, no or marginal roosting
habitat, two documented occurrences within 5 mi.
(1990, exact location unknown, mapped 2.6 mi. N;
2001, 1.5 mi. NW).
Lasiurus xanthinus
Western yellow bat
Valley foothill riparian, desert riparian, desert wash, palm oasis. Roosts in trees, particularly palms.
Forages over water and among trees. Desert regions
of the SW US. Distributed in S CA, AZ, NM, & TX, into
Mexico.
Fed: None
Calif: SSC, S3
Not expected (foraging and roosting); no or marginal
habitat, one documented occurrence within 5 mi.
(1982, exact location unknown, mapped 2.7 mi. N).
Lepus californicus bennettii
San Diego black-tailed jackrabbit
Chaparral, coastal, or Riversidean sage scrub with
adjacent open grassland. Los Angeles Co. S to San
Quintin, Baja California, Mexico.
Fed: None
Calif: SSC, S3S4
MSHCP: AC
Occurs; observed on the site during surveys.
Neotoma lepida intermedia
San Diego desert woodrat
Arid shrublands, rocky outcrops, & crevices.
Cismontane CA., San Luis Obispo to San Diego Co. &
NW Baja California. 0-7000 ft. elev. Variety of shrub
and desert habitats, primarily associated with rock
outcroppings, boulders, cacti, or areas of dense
undergrowth. Constructs elaborate middens of sticks
and other materials.
Fed: None
Calif: SSC, S3S4
MSHCP: AC
Not expected; potentially marginal habitat, no
documented occurrences within 5 mi., no middens
observed during surveys.
Nyctinomops femorosaccus
Pocketed free-tailed bat
Deserts & arid lowlands, pinyon juniper woodlands,
desert scrub, riparian scrub, Joshua tree woodland,
rocky areas with high cliffs. E Riverside & San Diego
Cos. and Imperial Co., through SW US, Baja
California, mainland Mexico. Roost mainly in crevices
of high cliffs. Few records in So CA. Prefers rocky
desert areas with high cliffs or rock outcrops. Feeds
over ponds, streams, and arid desert.
Fed: None
Calif: SSC, S3
Not expected (foraging and roosting); no suitable
habitat, no documented occurrences within 5 mi.
Onychomys torridus ramona
Southern grasshopper mouse
Nocturnal, active year-round. Desert scrub, coastal
scrub, mixed chaparral, sagebrush, especially scrub
habitats with friable soil, prefers low to moderate shrub cover. LA through San Diego counties and northwest
Baja.
Fed: None
Calif: SSC, S3
Low; potentially marginal habitat, one documented
occurrence within 5 mi. (1932, exact location
unknown, mapped 4.4 mi. NE).
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Species Habitat and Distribution
Conservation
Status Potential for Occurrence
Perognathus longimembris
brevinasus
Los Angeles pocket mouse
Nocturnal, active Apr-Aug. Annual grassland, sage
scrub, alluvial sage scrub. S California from Rancho
Cucamonga (W boundary), San Gorgonio (E),
Aguanga & Oak Grove, San Diego (S). Open ground
with fine, sandy soils.
Fed: None
Calif: SSC, S1S2
MSHCP: AC c
Low; potentially marginal habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi.
Perognathus longimembris
internationalis
Jacumba pocket mouse
Desert riparian, desert scrub, desert wash, coastal
scrub and sagebrush. Rarely found on rocky sites.
Fed: None
Calif: SSC, S2
Low; potentially marginal habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi.
Taxidea taxus
American badger
Mountains, deserts, interior valleys where burrowing
animals are available as prey & soil permits digging.
Throughout Central & W North America.
Fed: None
Calif: SSC, S3
Low; potentially suitable habitat, no badger burrows
or diggings observed during surveys.
References: CDFW (2021b, 2021c), USFWS (2021), Dudek (2003), RCA (2020); Cornell (2021); eBird (2021); USFS (2013).
“Documented occurrences” refers to species occurrences in the California Nat ural Diversity Database (CNDDB) unless otherw ise noted. For plant species that are not tracked in the CNDDB, records from the Consortium of California Herbari a (CCH) may be used (only CCH records that include map coordinates are utilized). EBird (eBird.org) is an online database of bird distributio n and abundance sponsored by the Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology and compile d from observations submitted by citi zen scientists. eBird records of bird observations are noted but should be interpreted with caution. eBird records “in vicinity” means records within about a 5-mile radius of the site.
Federal designations: (Federal Endangered Species Act, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service):
END: Federally listed, endangered; an animal or plant in danger of extinction within the foreseeable future throughout all or a significant portion of its range.
THR: Federally listed, threatened; a n animal or plant which is likely to become an Endangered species within the fores eeable future throu ghout all or a significant portion of its range.
Cand Candidate for federal l isting as threatened or endangered; species that has been studied by the U .S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the Se rvice has concluded that it should be proposed for addition to the Federal Endangered and Threatened species list.
Prop Proposed for federal listing as Endangered or Threatened under Section 4 of the Endangered Species Act.
Delisted: Previously federally listed as endangered or threatened, but is no longer listed (e.g., due to recovery).
None: The species has no federal conservation status.
BGEPA: Federal Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act; protects bald and golden eagles.
BCC: USFWS Bird of Conservatio n Concern; migratory and non -migratory bird species (beyond thos e already designated as Federall y threatened or endangered) that represent USFWS highest conservation priorities.
State designations: (California Endangered Species Act, California Dept. of Fish and Wildlife) END: State listed, endangered; a native specie s or subspecies of a bird, mamma l, fish, amphibian, reptile, or plant which i s in serious danger of becoming extinct throughout all, or a significant port ion, of its range due to one or more c auses, including loss of habitat, change in habitat, overexploit ation, predation, competition, or disease.
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CanE: Candidate Endangered; a native species or subspecies of a bird, mammal, fish, amphibian, reptile, or plan t that the Fish and Game Commission ha s formally noticed as being under review by the Department of Fi sh and Wildlife for addition to the list of endangered species, or a species for which the commission has published a notice of proposed regulation to add the species to the list of endangered species.
CanT: Candidate Threatened; a native species or subspe cies of a bird, mammal, fish, am phibian, reptile, or plant that the Fish and Game Commission has formally noticed as being under review by the Department of Fish and Wildlife for addition to t he list of threatened species, or a species for which the commis sion has published a notice of proposed regulation to add the species to the list of threatened species.
THR: State listed, threatened; a native species o r subspecies of a bird, mammal, fish, amphibian, reptile, or plant that, although not presently threat ened with extinction, is likely to become an endangered species in the foreseeable future in the absence of special protection and management efforts.
RARE: State listed as rare: a native plan t species, subspecies, or variety when, although not presently t hreatened with extinction, it is in such small numbers throughout its range that it may become endangered if its present environment worsens (Native Plant Protection Act of 1977).
SSC: CDFW Sp ecies of Special Concern; vertebrate species of concern due to d eclining population levels, limi ted ranges, and/or continuing threats that ha ve made them vulnerable to extinction.
FP: Fully Protected; California Fish a nd Game Code states that Fully Protect ed species "...may not be taken or possessed at any time and no provision of this code or any ot her law shall be construed to authorize the i ssuance of permits or licenses to take any fully protected" species, although take may be authorized for necessary scientific research.
Delisted: Previously state listed as threatened or endangered, but no longer listed (e.g., due to recovery).
SA: CDFW Special Animal; wildlife of state conservation concern.
SH: All California sites are historical, still some hope of rediscovery.
SX: All California sites are historical, presumed extirpated.
PFB: Protected Fur-bearing Mammal under Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations.
None: The species has no state conservation status.
State Rank (S Rank): A reflection of the condition and imperilment of an element (plant, animal, vegetat ion community) throughout its ra nge within the state. The S ranks are determined through a combination of rarity, threat, and trend factors, weighted more heavily on the rarity factors. Where correct category is uncertain, the S rank includes two categories or a question mark. Older rank s, which need to be updated, may still contai n a decimal "threat" rank of .1, .2, or .3, where .1 indicates very threatened status, .2 indicates moderate threat, and .3 indicates few or no current known threats.
S1: Critically imperiled; imperiled in the state because of extreme rarity or some factor(s) making it especially vulnerable to extirpation from the state.
S2: Imperiled; imperiled in the state because of rarity due to very restricted range, very few populations, steep declines, or other factors making it very vulnerable to extirpation from the state or nation.
S3: Vulnerable; vulnerable in the state due to a restricted range, relatively few populations, recent and widespread declines, or other factors making it vulne rable to extirpation. S4: Apparently secure; uncommon but not rare, some cause for long-term concern due to declines or other factors.
S5: Secure; common, widespread, and abundant in the state.
SH: Possibly extirpated; species or community occurred historically in the state, and there is some possibility that it may be rediscovered. The element has not been seen for at least 20 years, but suitable habitat still exists.
SX: Presumed extirpated; species or community is believed to be extirpated from the state.
California Rare Plant Rank (CRPR): The California Rare Plant Ranks are a ranking system originally developed by the California Native Plant Society (CNPS) to better define and categorize rarity in California's plants. These ranks were previously known as the CNPS lists but were renamed to the California Rare Plant Ranks to better reflect the joint effort among the CNPS, the CDFW, and a wide range of botanical experts, who work together to assign a rarity ranking.
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1A: Plants presumed extinct in California and rare/extinct elsewhere. 1B: Plants rare, threatened, or endangered in California and elsewhere. 2A: Plants presumed extirpated in California, but more common elsewhere. 2B: Plants rare, threatened, or endangered in California but more common elsewhere. 3: Plants about which we need more information.
4: Plants of limited distribution.
X.1: Extension to CRPR (e.g., 1B.1); seriously threatened in California.
X.2: Extension to CRPR (e.g., 1B.2); fairly threatened in California.
X.3: Extension to CRPR (e.g., 1B.3); not very threatened in California.
CBR: Considered but rejected.
U.S. Forest Service (USFS) designation:
S: Sensitive; plant and animal species identified by a regional forester that are not listed or proposed for listing under the Federal Endangered Species Act for which population viability is a concern, as evidenced by significant current or predicted downward trends in population numbers or density, or significant current or predicted downward trends in habitat capability that would reduce a species’ existing distribution.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM designation:
S: Sensitive; plant and animal species requiring special management consideration to promote their conservation and reduce the likelihood for future listing under the Federal Endangered Species Act. Includes species designated as sensitive by the BLM State Director and all Federal Candidate species and Federal delisted species in the 5 years following delisting. Sensitive species are managed as special status species.
Western Riverside County Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan: Applied to species that are covered under state and federal permits for the MSHCP.
NAC: Species Not Adequately Conserved
AC: Species Adequately Conserved
(a): Surveys may be required for these species as part of wetlands mapping as described in Section 6.1.2 of the MSHCP. (b): Surveys may be required for these species within Narrow Endemic Plant Species survey area as described in Section 6.1.3 of the MSHCP. (c): Surveys may be required for these species within locations shown on survey maps as described in Section 6.3.2 of the MSHCP. (d): Surveys may be required for these species within Criteria Area as described in Section 6.3.2 of the MSHCP. (e): These Covered Species will be considered Adequately Conserved when conservation requirements identified in species-specific conservation objectives have been met. Species-specific conservation objectives for these species are presented in Section 9.0 of the MSHCP. Please refer to Table 9 -3 of the MSHCP for specific conservation objectives that must be met for these species prior to including them on the list of Covered Species Adequately Conserved. (f): These Covered Species will be considered Adequately Conserved when a Memorandum of Un derstanding is executed with the U.S. Forest Service that addresses management for these species on Forest Service Land. Refer to Table 9-3 of the MSHCP.
No entry: Not a Covered Species
Definitions of occurrence probability:
These definitions provide general guidance. Classifications for individual species may be modified based on biologists’ experience and expert opinion.
Occurs: Species was detected during surveys or previously documented on the Project site or adjacent areas.
High: Species documented in the vicinity (i.e., within 5 miles) of the Project site and suitable habitat is present, but species not detected during surveys.
Moderate: Species documented in the vicinity of the Project site or suitable habitat present and site is within geographic and elevational range of the species.
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Low: Species not documented in the vicinity of the Project site or suitable habitat is marginal.
Not Expected: Species not documented in the vic inity of the Project site and suitable habitat marginal or absen t, or site is not within geograp hic and elevational range of the species.
Absent: No potential for the species to occur due to lack of habitat, geographic or elevation range, species life history, survey results, etc.
Unknown: No focused surveys have been performed in the region, and the species' distribution and habitat are poorly known.
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APPENDIX C: PRECIPITATION DATA
Precipitation data from t he Clark Remote Automatic Weather Station for October 2002 through September 2021, by water year (October 1 through September 30) (WRCC 2021).
Water Year Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Total 2003 0.07 0.79 1.83 0.02 5.08 2.99 1.70 0.33 0.06 0.06 0.04 0 12.97 2004 0 0.92 0.62 0.29 3.22 0.92 0.39* * * * 0.60* 0* 6.96* 2005 4.96 0.64 2.41 5.39 6.45 1.10 0.57 0.29 0.04 * 0.01* 0.37* 22.23* 2006 1.12 1.12* 0.35 0.62 1.59 1.55 1.32 0.28 0 0.25 0 0 8.20* 2007 0.03 0.05 0.70 0.16 0.42 0.38 0.49 0.03 0 0 0 0.03 2.29 2008 0.20 1.82 0.70 2.61 0.79 0.59 0.03 0.49 0.01 0 0 0 7.24 2009 0 1.18 2.83 0.05 0.95 0.03 0 0 0 0 0 0.01 5.05
2010 0 0.10 1.68 6.01 1.83 0.21 0.87 0.01 0 0 0 0.11 10.82 2011 0.48 0.55 8.23 0.38 2.37 1.44 0.19 0.22 0 0.29 0 0 14.15 2012 0.22 1.34 0.33 0.45 0.56 1.09* 1.17 0.02 0 0.15 0.46 0.04 5.83* 2013 0.16 0.40 2.02 0.58 0.93 0.59 0 0.29 0 0.04 0.12 0 5.13 2014 0.66 0.94 0.34 0 1.25 0.59 0.58 0 0 0 0.20 0 4.56
2015 0.20 0.23 3.18 0.68 0.47 0.73 0.17 0.97 0 0.99 0 0.75 8.37 2016 0.42 0.29 0.35 2.35 0.14 0.72 1.20 0.27 0 0 0 0.03 5.77 2017 0.64 1.10* 3.44 4.44 2.36 0.07 0 0.07 0 0.03 0.24 0 12.39* 2018 0 0.09 0 1.85 0.27 1.13 0.01 0.20 0 0 0 0 3.55
2019 1.02 1.08 1.33 2.27 4.37 1.96 0.02 0.87 0 0 0 0 12.92 2020 0 2.19 2.69 0.04 0.32 3.65 3.73 0 0.04 0 0 0 12.66 2021 0 0.14 1.18 2.00 0.01 1.30 0 0* 0.07* 0.10 0 0.16 4.96* *missing or suspect data.
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Precipitation data from the Sage Remot e Automatic Weather Station for October 2010 through September 20214, by water year (October 1 through September 30) (WRCC 2021).
Water Year Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Total 2011 1.13 0.96 7.73 0.52 4.12 1.65 0.32 0.48 0.04 0.52 0 0.02 17.49 2012 0.89 2.02 0.95 0.55 1.88 1.65 1.68 0.04 0 0.22 2.06 0.15 12.09 2013 0.16 0.39 1.74 0.83 1.27 1.04 0.06 0.51 0 0.01 0.20 0.13 6.34 2014 0.90 0.62 0.45 0.04 1.69 0.69 0.32 0 0 0 1.22 0.56 6.49 2015 0.10 0.77 4.22 0.68 0.87 0.70 0.18 1.99 0 1.36 0 0.85 11.72 2016 0.57 0.59 1.23 3.10 0.11* 0.93 0.40 0.11 0 0 0 0.75 7.79* 2017 0.19 1.20 4.18 4.97 4.05 0.13 0 0.42 0 0.01 0.18 0.06 15.39 2018 0.02 0.09 0 2.63 0.46 2.35 0 0.12 0.01 0.04 0 0 5.72 2019 0.92 1.18 1.61 2.54 7.34 1.84 0.20 1.41 0.02 0 0 0.10 17.16 2020 0 3.01 2.39 0.53 0.40 4.78 4.44 * 0.04 0.01 0 0 15.60* 2021 0.09 0.62 1.43 1.62 0.20 1.54 0.31 0 0 0.31 0 0.07 6.19 *missing or suspect data.
4 The record for the Sage Weather Station begins in 2010.
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Precipitation data from the Cranston Remote Automatic Weather Station for October 2002 through September 2021, by water year (October 1 through September 30) (WRCC 2021).
Water Year Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Total 2003 0.01 1.41 2.62 0.08 4.18 3.26* 1.71 0.12 0.08 0.37 0.10 0.08 14.02* 2004 0 2.18 0.83 0.33 3.72 2.86 0.97 0.02 0 0* 0.02 0 10.93* 2005 6.34 1.85 3.83 8.17 5.38 1.20 1.58 0.85 0 1.38 1.42 0.17 32.17 2006 1.46 0 0.22 0.92 2.06 3.15 2.29 0.32 0 0.33 0 1.02 11.77 2007 0.21 0.07 0.45 0.24 1.95 0.25 0.69 0.03 0 0.01 0.04 0.20 4.14 2008 0 2.31 1.36 4.77 1.92 0.47 0 1.21* 0* 0.15* 0* 0* 12.19* 2009 0* 0.39* 0.26* 0.34* 1.56* 0.03* 0.62* 0.08* 0.03* 0* 0* 0.02* 3.33* 2010 0.04* 0.26* 0.57* 2.80* 2.42* 0.80* 0.76* 0* 0* 0.10* 0.39 0.04 8.18* 2011 2.09 1.14 8.98 0.74 3.83 1.69 0.19 0.23 0.03 0.48 0 0.03 19.43 2012 0.33 2.33 0.53 0.38 1.77 1.71 1.45 0.03 0 0.03 2.30 0.89 11.75 2013 0.26 0.16 1.39 1.15 0.98 1.29 0.08 0.22 0 0 0.57 0.21 6.31 2014 0.74 0.58 0.31 0.01 2.23 1.35 0.60 0.01 0 0.32 1.35 2.09 9.59 2015 0.06 0.55 4.53 0.25 0.81 0.84 0.35 1.94 0.31 3.54 0 0.82 14.00 2016 0.85 0.47 1.66 3.41 0.12* 0.80 0.39 0.84 0 0 0.03 0.68 9.25* 2017 0.55* 1.26 4.21 5.56 3.93 0.21 0 0.41 0.01 0 0.21 0 16.35* 2018 0.01 0.06 0 2.15 0.62 2.79 0.01 0.28 0 0.28 0 0 6.2 2019 0.87 0.80 1.74 3.05 9.02 2.07 0.32* 1.87 0.01 0 0 0.08 19.83* 2020 0 3.38 2.44 0.34 0.54 5.04 3.85 0.06 0.03 0 0.21 0 15.89 2021 0 0.52 1.39 2.39 0.28 1.33 0.36 0.05 0.03 0.37 0 0.03 6.75 *missing or suspect data.
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From WRCC (2018)
Project location
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APPENDIX D: SITE PHOTOGRAPHS
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Agricultural fields, south-central area of site facing
northwest (05.25.2021).
Agricultural fields, central area of site facing north; slopes with coastal scrub visible in background
(05.25.2021).
Agricultural fields after mowing, south-central area of site facing east (11.08.2021).
Overview of site after agricultural fields mowed, from
slope at north-central edge of site facing south; coastal scrub in foreground (11.08.2021).
California buckwheat scrub, northeastern area of site
facing south (05.21.2021).
California buckwheat scrub, northeastern corner of site facing southwest (05.21.2021).
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California buckwheat scrub/ruderal, east-central area of site facing southeast (05.21.2021).
California buckwheat scrub/ruderal, northwest area of
site facing south (05.25.2021).
Chamise chaparral, south-central edge of site facing
northwest (05.25.2021).
Area of chamise chaparral after it was mowed, south-
central edge of site facing west (11.08.2021).
Scattered riparian vegetation along blue-line stream,
northwest area of site facing southeast (11.08.2021).
Scattered riparian vegetation along blue-line stream,
northwest-central area of site facing north (11.08.2021).
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Offsite area along Wickerd Road, facing west
(05.21.2021).
Offsite area along Wickerd Road, facing west
(05.21.2021).
Areas of long-spined spineflower observation in 2017, facing east (11.08.2021). This area has been impacted by OHV use and the species was not observed during surveys in 2018, 2019, and 2021.
Southern California black walnut tree in riparian area, facing north (11.08.2021).
Southern California black walnut tree in riparian area, facing northwest, eucalyptus tree at right (11.08.2021).
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Non-native pepper trees along western boundary of site, facing north (05.25.2021). Tree on left is offsite.
Scattered trees in the riparian area, facing south
(05.25.2021).
Burrowing owl observed onsite on May 30, 2018. The owl was not observed during subsequent surveys in 2018. No owls or owl sign were observed during surveys in 2019 and 2021.
Burrowing owl burrow in 2018. This burrow was not occupied during surveys in 2019 and 2021.
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Location of 2018 burrow in 2021 after agricultural fields were mowed, facing south (11.08.2021). There was no
evidence of occupation before or after mowing.
Potentially suitable burrow with no signs of occupation, after agricultural fields mowed, southeast area of site facing east (11.08.2021).
Potentially suitable habitat for burrowing owl and potential burrow locations were thoroughly searched and no evidence of occupation was found in 2019 and 2021.
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APPENDIX E: CNDDB FORMS
CNDDB forms for 20 21 observations are provided below. The forms were submitted to CDFW online. The CNDDB only tracks nesting for Cooper’s hawk and nesting was not observed, so a CNDDB form for this species is not required. The CNDDB does not track Nuttall’s woodpecker or wrentit, so CNDDB forms for these species are not required.
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APPENDIX F: RIVERSIDE COUNTY DOCUMENTATION
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Certification
Certification: I hereby certify that t he statements furnished above and in the attac hed exhibits present the d ata and information required for this biological evaluation, and that th e facts, statements, and information presented are true and c orrect to the b est of my k nowledge and belief.
DATE: December 17, 2021 SIGNED:
Leslie Irish, Principal, L&L Environmental, Inc.
909-335-9897
1) Fieldwork Performed By: 2) Fieldwork Performed By:
Guy Bruyea John Konecny
Name Name
3) Fieldwork Performed By: 4) Fieldwork Performed By:
Name Name
5) Fieldwork Performed By: 6) Fieldwork Performed By:
Name Name
Check here if adding any additional names / signatures below or on other side of page.
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BIOLOGICAL REPORT SUMMARY SHEET
Applicant Name: Richland Communities
Assessor’s Parcel Number(s): 360-300-002, -003, -004, -005, -006, -009, 360-350-001 Section, Township and Range: Sections 15 and 16, Township 6 South, Range 3 West Building and Safety Log Number: ____________________________________________ Case Number: TR 31194 Lot/Parcel _________ EA Number _________
MARK ITEM(S)
SURVEYED FOR
SPECIES or ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUE of
CONCERN
(Mark Yes, No, or N/A
regarding species findings on
the referenced site)
Yes No n/a
Arroyo Southwestern Toad X
X Blue-line Stream(s) X
X Burrowing Owl X (2018) X (2021)
Coachella Valley Fringed-toed Lizard X
X Coastal California Gnatcatcher X
X Coastal Sage Scrub X
Delhi Sands Flower-loving Fly X
Desert Pupfish X
Desert Slender Salamander X
Desert Tortoise X
Flat-tailed Horned Lizard X
X Least Bell’s Vireo (habitat) X
X Oak Woodlands X
X Quino Checkerspot Butterfly (2004 survey) X
X Riverside Fairy Shrimp (habitat) X
X Santa Ana River Woolystar X
San Bernardino Kangaroo Rat X
X Slender-horned Spineflower X
Stephens’ Kangaroo Rat X
X Vernal Pools X
X Wetlands X
X Long-spined spineflower X (2017) X (2021)
X Southern California black walnut X
X Coast Horned Lizard (previous survey) X
X Orange-throated Whiptail (previous survey) X
X Coastal (Western) Whiptail (previous survey) X
X Cooper’s Hawk X
X Northern Harrier (previous survey) X
X White-tailed Kite (previous survey) X
X California Horned Lark X
X Great Egret (previous survey) X
X Great Blue Heron (previous survey) X
X Lawrence’s Goldfinch (previous survey) X
X Loggerhead Shrike (previous survey) X
X California Thrasher (previous survey) X
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MARK ITEM(S)
SURVEYED FOR
SPECIES or ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUE of
CONCERN
(Mark Yes, No, or N/A
regarding species findings on
the referenced site)
Yes No n/a
X Southern California Rufous-crowned Sparrow
(previous survey) X
X Bell’s Sage Sparrow (previous survey) X
X Nuttall’s Woodpecker X
X Wrentit X
X Costa’s Hummingbird (previous survey) X
X Rufous Hummingbird (previous survey) X
X San Diego Black-tailed Jackrabbit X
Species of concern sh all be any uniq ue, rare, endangered, or threate ned species. It shall includ e species used to delineate wetlands and riparian corridors. It shall also include any hosts , p erching, or food pla nts us ed by any animals listed as rare, enda ngered, threatened, or candidate sp ecies by either state, or federa l regulations, or for Riverside County as listed by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife Natural Diversity Data Base (CNDDB).
I declar e under penalty of perjury that the informat ion provided on this summary sheet is in accordance with the information provided in the biological report or habitat assessment.
L & L Environmental, Inc. December 17, 2021
Signature and Company Name Date
___________________________________________
10(a) Permit Number (if applicable) Permit Expiration Date
County Use Only
Received By: _________________________________________ Date: ____________________ PD-B# ______________________________________________
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Attachment E-4
LEVEL OF SIGNIFICANCE CHECKLIST
For Biological Resources
Case Number: TR 31194 Lot/Parcel No. _____________ EA Number _________ Assessor's Parcel Number(s): 360-300-002, -003, -004, -005, -006, -009, 360-350-001 Date: December 17, 2021
Biological Resources: (Check the level of impact that applies to the following questions.)
Potentially Less than Significant Less than No
Significant Impact with Mitigation Significant Impact
Impact Incorporated Impact
a) Conflict with the provisions of an adopted Habitat Conservation Plan, Natural Conservation Community Plan, or other approved local, regional, or state conservation plan?
b) Have a substantial adverse eff ect, either directly or thr ough habitat mod ifications, o n any endangered, or threatened species, as listed in Tit le 14 o f the Californ ia Code o f Regulations (Sections 670.2 or 670.5) or in Title 50, Code of Federal Regulations (Sections 17.11 or 17.12)?
c) Have a substanti al adverse effec t, either dir ectly o r th rough h abitat modifications, on any species identified as a candida te, sensitive, or special s tatus species in local or r egional plans, policies, or regulations, or by the California Depart ment of Fish and Wildlife, or U. S. Wildlif e Service?
d) Interfere substantially with the movement of a ny native resident or migratory fish or wildlife species, or with established nati ve resident migr atory w ildlife corridors, or impede the use o f native wildlife nursery sites?
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LEVEL OF SIGNIFICANCE CHECKLIST
For Biological Resources
e) Have a substantial adverse effect on any riparian habi tat, or other sensitive nat ural community identifi ed i n l ocal o r regional plans, policies, regu lations, or by the Californ ia Department of Fish and Wildlife, or the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service?
f) Have a substantial adverse effect on federally protected wetlands, as defined by Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (including, but not limite d to, marsh, vernal pools, coastal, etc.) through direct removal, filling, hydrological interruption)?
g) Conflict with any local policies or ordinanc es protecting biological resources, such as a tree preservation policy or ordinance?
Findings of Fact:
The site is located within the area covered by the MSHCP but is not within the Criteria Area.
There is one area of PQP Conserved Lands approximately 0.68 miles north-northeast of the site (Ringing Rock Archaeological Site). Other than the Ringing Rock Site, t here are no other PQP or MSHCP Conserved Lands within a mile of the site. The site is not within or near any MSHCP Core Areas or Linkages.
There is one sensitive vegetation community present, arroyo willow thicket.
No state or federall y listed plants were observed . Two speci al status plant species were observed, long-spined spineflower and southern California black walnut.
There is one immature coast live oak and other native and non-native trees present.
Coastal California gnatcatcher present and n esting on the site. White -tailed kite observed during previous surveys, but no nesting detected.
No vernal pools or ponding areas and no fairy shrimp habitat.
Riparian birds ( least Bell's vi reo, southwestern willow flycatcher , western yellow-billed cuckoo) considered absent.
Special status wildlife species detected: orange-throated whiptail , coastal (western) whiptail , coast horned lizard, Cooper’s hawk, southern California rufous-crowned sparrow, great egret, great blue heron (fly over), Bell’s sage sparrow , burrowing owl, Costa’s hummingbird, wrentit, northern harrie r, Nuttall’s woodpeck er, California horned lark , loggerhead shrike , rufous hummingbird, Lawrence’s goldfinch, California thrasher, and San Diego black-tailed jackrabbit.
Updated Biological Resources Assessment
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One (1) adult burrowing owl and an occupied burrow observed in 2018. No owls or owl sign observed in 2019 or 2021.
There is habitat suitable for nesting birds (including raptors) within and adjacent to the site.
The site is not within or adjacent to a wildlife corridor.
A mapped blue -line stream is present and includes MSHCP riparian/riverine habitat as well as state waters/wetlands and federal waters. Regulatory permitting and a DBESP will be required.
Proposed Mitigation:
Preconstruction surveys for burrowing owl.
Preconstruction surveys for nesting birds during nesting season.
Avoidance of riparian habitat and offsite compensation for impacts.
Monitoring Recommended:
Monitoring of ac tive coastal California gnatcatcher nest sites during Project activities recommended.
Monitoring of Project activities that disturb vegetation or soil in and adjacent to the Avoidance Area is recommended.
Source: CGP Fig. VI.36-VI.40
Revised October 1999
Updated Biological Resources Assessment
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APPENDIX G: SITE PLAN
ASCOT WAY
(FUT.) EVANS RD.
WICKERD ROAD
"A" STREET
"C" STREET
"D" STREET
"E" STREET
"F" STREET
"G"
"H" STREET
"I" STREET
STREET
"K" STREET
"K" STREET
"L" STREET
"M" STREET
"N" STREET
"O" STREET
"P" STREET
"Q" STREET
"R" STREET
"S" STREET
"T" STREET
"U" STREET
"V" STREET
"Y" ST
"Z" STREET
STREET
"X"
"W"
"J"
STREET
STREET
"B" STREET
WICKERD ROAD
"I" STREET
"H" STREET
TR 31194-3
TR 31194-2
TR 31194-1
TR 31194-4
SHEET 1
OF 1
PROPOSED LOT ADJUSTMENT
SITE PLAN EXHIBIT
TENTATIVE TRACT MAP NO. 31194
GOLDEN MEADOWS
215
SITE
\\DARWIN\Shared Folders\Server Project Files\UNIFIED PROJECTS\RLCC-03-187 Menifee Assemblage - Golden Meadows\2018 BO8 NB3\Report\RLCC-03-R187.BO8.NB3 final.doc
Celebrating 20+ Years of Service to Southern CA and the Great Basin, WBE Certified (Caltrans, CPUC, WBENC) Mailing Address: 700 East Redlands Blvd, Suite U, PMB#351, Redlands CA 92373 Delivery Address: 721 Nevada Street, Suite 307, Redlands, CA 92373 Webpage: llenviroinc.com | Phone: 909-335-9897 | FAX: 909-335-9893
FOCUSED BURROWING OWL AND RAPTOR NEST SURVEYS FOR TRACT 31194,
GOLDEN MEADOWS, CITY OF MENIFEE, CALIFORNIA
±207 Acre Property, ±207 Acres Surveyed
APNs 360-300-002, -003, -004, -005, -006, -009, 360-350-001, and portions of offsite 360-180-009, 360-300-001, -008, 360-350-019, -022, -023, -024, 360-360-009, -010, -011, and 360-380-004, Tract 31194, Menifee Area, Sections 15 and 16, Township 6 South, Range 3 West, USGS Romoland, 7.5’ Topographic Quadrangle
Prepared For:
Mike Byer and Craig Cristina
Richland Communities
3161 Michelson Drive, Suite 425
Irvine, CA 92612
949-261-7010
Prepared By:
Leslie Irish, Principal
Guy Bruyea, Biological Investigator
Carla Wakeman, Senior Biologist
Jeffrey Sonnentag, Technical Editor
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
Report Summary:
One (1) burrowing owl and one (1) occupied burrow were observed onsite in 2018. A winter burrowing owl survey, preparation of a Burrowing Owl Exclusion Plan, an d preconstruction survey are recommended. One (1) inactive raptor nest is present, but no active nests were observed. Habitat suitable for nesting birds (including raptors) is present within and around the site and a preconstruction survey is recommended . Previous surveys identified one (1) listed species (coastal California gnatcatcher) and several special status species onsite, including white -tailed kite, northern harrier, coast horned lizard, coastal (western) whiptail, orange -throated whiptail, San Diego black -tailed jackrabbit, Cooper’s hawk , California horned lark, great blue heron, Costa’s hummingbird, and long -spined spineflower. There is no evidence of white -tailed kite nesting on the project site. Jurisdictional riparian/riverine areas were previously identified on the project site . Regulatory permits will be required for impacts to jurisdictional areas . No vernal pools or areas of potential habitat for fairy shrimp were observed or are present onsite.
Surveys Conducted By: Guy Bruyea
Surveys Conducted: May through July 2018
Report Date: October 2018
Burrowing Owl and Raptor Nest Surveys
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
MANAGEMENT SUMMARY ................................ ................................ ................................ ......iv
1.0) INTRODUCTION ................................ ................................ ................................ ................ 1
1.1) Location................................ ................................ ................................ ........................... 1 Figure 1. Vicinity Map................................ ................................ ................................ .......... 2 Figure 2. Project Location ................................ ................................ ................................ ... 3 Figure 3. Aerial Photograph ................................ ................................ ................................ 4
1.2) Vegetation and Setting ................................ ................................ ................................ .... 5
1.3) Soils and Topography ................................ ................................ ................................ ...... 5 Figure 4. Soils Map ................................ ................................ ................................ ............. 7
2.0) REGULATORY ENVIRONMENT ................................ ................................ ........................ 8
2.1) Federal ................................ ................................ ................................ ............................ 8
2.1.1) Federal Endangered Species Act ................................ ................................ .............. 8
2.1.2) Migratory Bird Treaty Act ................................ ................................ .......................... 8
2.2) State ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ 9
2.2.1) California Endangered Species Act ................................ ................................ ........... 9
2.2.2) California Natural Diversity Database ................................ ................................ ........ 9
2.2.3) California Rare Plant Ranks ................................ ................................ ...................... 9
2.2.2) California Environmental Quality Act ................................ ................................ ........10
2.2.3) California Fish and Game Code, Sections 3503 and 3513 ................................ .......10
2.3) Local ................................ ................................ ................................ .............................. 11
2.3.1) Western Riverside County Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan ...................11
3.0) METHODS AND PERSONNEL ................................ ................................ .........................14
3.1) Literature Review ................................ ................................ ................................ ...........14
3.2) Survey Methods ................................ ................................ ................................ .............14 Table 1. Survey Information ................................ ................................ ............................... 15
3.3) Species Information ................................ ................................ ................................ ........16
3.3.1) Burrowing Owl ................................ ................................ ................................ .........16
3.3.2) White-tailed Kite ................................ ................................ ................................ .......16
4.0) RESULTS ................................ ................................ ................................ ..........................18
4.1) Literature Review Results ................................ ................................ ............................... 18 Figure 5. MSHCP Cores and Linkages ................................ ................................ ..............20 Figure 6. White-tailed Kite within 10 Miles ................................ ................................ ..........21
4.2) Vegetation Communities ................................ ................................ ................................ 22
4.3) Plant Species ................................ ................................ ................................ .................23
4.4) Wildlife Species ................................ ................................ ................................ ..............24
4.4.1) Burrowing Owl ................................ ................................ ................................ .........25
4.4.2) Raptor Nests ................................ ................................ ................................ ............25
4.5) Jurisdictional Areas (MSHCP Riparian/Riverine and Vernal Pool Habitat) ......................26 Figure 7. Vegetation Community Map ................................ ................................ ................27 Figure 8. Special Status Species – 2011 ................................ ................................ ............28 Figure 9. Special Status Species – 2013 ................................ ................................ ............29 Figure 10. Special Status Species – 2017 ................................ ................................ ..........30 Figure 11. Special Status Species – 2018 ................................ ................................ ..........31 Figure 12. Jurisdictional Areas (2013) ................................ ................................ ................32 Burrowing Owl and Raptor Nest Surveys
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5.0) IMPACTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS ................................ ................................ ............33
6.0) REFERENCES ................................ ................................ ................................ ..................35 APPENDIX A: Plant and Wildlife Species ................................ ................................ ..............38 Table 2. Plant and Wildlife Species ................................ ................................ .......................38 Table 3. Details of Special Status Species Observations ................................ .......................47 APPENDIX B: Site Photographs................................ ................................ .............................48 APPENDIX C: Riverside County Documentation ................................ ................................ ..52 Certification ................................ ................................ ................................ ...........................53 Biological Report Summary Sheet ................................ ................................ .........................54 Level of Significance Checklist ................................ ................................ .............................. 56 APPENDIX D: CNDDB Forms ................................ ................................ ................................ .58
Burrowing Owl and Raptor Nest Surveys
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MANAGEMENT SUMMARY
L&L Environmental, Inc. (L&L) conducted breeding season burrowing owl and raptor nest surveys on Richland Communities’ ±207 -acre project (and associated offsite improvement areas) in the City of Menifee, Califo rnia. The purpose of this work effort was to re-examine the subject property to determine presence/absence of burrowing owl and raptor nests on the site and potential for special status species, particularly white-tailed kite, to occur.
L&L has performed studies on this property for over a decade (beginning in 2003 ) under a number of contractors and proponents. This study reflects the most current field conditions and, where pertinent, makes comparative statements as to past and historic conditions.
Land use varies within and adjacent to the survey area and includes anthropogenic disturbances such as rural residential areas, active and fallow a gricultural areas, unimproved roads, powerline easements, off -road vehicle activity, debris piles, and windblown debris. Two (2) roads are present on the property. One is located along the northern and eastern portion of the property where agricultural a reas meet less disturbed sage scrub areas. This unimproved road begins at the eastern terminus of Daniel Road and exits at the southeastern corner of the site near the intersection of Evans Road and Ascot Way. Krubsack Road (unimproved) trends north to s outh through agricultural fields within the roughly west -central portion of the property and connects with Wickerd Road to the south and Daniel Road to the north.
The site consists of agricultural fields and a mix of disturbed to relatively undisturbed buckwheat scrub and chamise chaparral vegetation communities. The agricultural fields are dry farmed for wheat. The site has also been used for sheep grazing in the past, but no grazing was observed during the current survey.
A shallow drainage and mapped blue-line stream is present onsite (trending from south to north within the central portion of the site ), as well as various other jurisdictional features. No vernal pools or areas of potential habitat for fairy shrimp were observed or are present onsite.
Based upon presence of relatively flat open areas with low-growing vegetation on large portions of the site, close proximity to a fresh water source, and recent records of burrowing owl in the vicinity, habitat suitable for use by burrowing owl was determined to be present on much of the subject property. There were no burrowing owl observations during biological surveys of the site in 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, and 2011. L&L conducted focused late-season surveys on the site and surrounding buffer areas in A ugust 2013 with negative results. However, one (1) Burrowing Owl and Raptor Nest Surveys
Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California October 2018 RLCC-03-R187.BO8.NB3 final v L&L
location was noted that may have been used in the recent past, based upon presence of a single feather found at an entrance to a hole beneath a grouping of medium -sized rocks. There was a rock immediatel y adjacent to th e entrance that was evidently used for avian perching (species undetermined) based on the presence of droppings, but no other sign, including additional feathers, scat, prey bones, tracks or other indicators were found at the location.
Focused surveys for burrowing owl were not conducted in 2017, but general surveys included searches for burrowing owl and active burrows. No burrowing owl, occupied burrows, or burrowing owl sign were observed. Surveys in 2018 observed one (1) burrowing owl and one (1) active burrow and potential nesting site . The owl was ob served during the survey on May 30, but was not observed during subsequent surveys. A preconstruction clearance survey for burrowing owl (valid for 30 days) will be required and winter b urrowing owl surveys and preparation of a Burrowing Owl Exclusion Plan are recommended.
A white-tailed kite was observed flying over the site during a survey in 2011 , but has not been observed subsequently. The California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB ) has documented occurrences of five (5) white -tailed kite nests within 10 miles of the project site (CDFW 2018 c).
There are several large eucalyptus trees on and adjacent to the site that may be suitable for raptor nesting. There is a raptor nest onsite in a large eucalyptus tree and it may have been used by red-tailed hawk in the past, but it was not observed to be active in 2017 or 2018. No white-tailed kite nesting has been observed onsite.
Habitat suitable for nesting birds is present within and aro und the site. Presence of this potential habitat warrants a recommendation for a preconstruction survey for nesting birds prior to any site disturbance during the nesting season (generally February 1 through August 31). If nesting birds are present, avoi dance of nest sites will be required and a buffer of at least 500 feet is recommended until juvenile birds have fledged and/or an authorized biologist has verified that the nest is no longer active.
Previous surveys identified one (1) listed species (coastal California gnatcatcher ) and several special status species onsite , including white-tailed kite, northern harrier, coast horned lizard, San Diego black -tailed jackrabbit, Cooper’s hawk, California horned lark , great blue heron , Costa’s hummingbird, and long-spined spineflower.
Burrowing Owl and Raptor Nest Surveys
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1.0) INTRODUCTION
The following report was prepared by L&L Environmental, Inc. (L&L) for Richland Communities.
It describes the results of biological surveys conducted on a proposed developm ent located on lands within the City of Menifee. The project site consists of APNs 360 -300-002, -003, -004, -005, -006, -009, and 360 -350-001 (totaling ±207 acres) and portions of offsite APNs 360-180-009, 360-300-001, -008, 360-350-019, -022, -023, -024, 360-360-009, -010, -011, and 360-380-004 where improvements are planned.
Our assessment consisted of (1) a records search and literature review, conducted to determine the species of concern in the project area and proximity to closest documented specia l status species observations, and (2) field reconnaissance to identify presence/absence of habitat and species of concern (particularly burrowing owl and raptor nesting).
1.1) Location
The site is located in the Paloma V alley west of Interstate Highway 215 (I -215), south of Newport Road, and east of Murrieta Road (Figure 1). The site is located between Wickerd Road to the south and Garbani Road to the north. The project site is situated in Sections 15 and 16, Township 6 South, Range 3 West, within the USGS Romoland 7.5’ series quadrangle map (Figure 2).
The site is generally bounded as follows: to the west by a mixture of actively cultivated and fallow agricultural areas, Evans Road (unimproved) , and rural residential units; to the east by a mixture of disturbed and relatively undisturbed open space, Ascot Way (unimproved), and a Verizon Communications complex beyond; to the north by a mixture of disturbed and relatively undisturbed lands, rural residential areas , Garbani Road (unimproved) , and a housing development beyond; and to the south by Wickerd Road (unimproved), rural residential areas , and a mix of disturbed and relatively undisturbed lands beyond (Figure 3).
In addition to surveys conducted on the main site, offs ite improvement areas were included in these surveys. These included t wo (2) separate areas: 1) a 0.5 mile section of Wickerd Road between the southeast corner of the main site east to Haun Road and 2) an area south of the south-central portion of the mai n site boundary roughly located between the intersection of Wickerd Road and Bradley Road and west to approximately Krubsack Road.
Burrowing Owl and Raptor Nest Surveys
Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California October 2018 RLCC-03-R187.BO8.NB3 final L&L 2
Figure 1
Project Vicinity Map
Golden Meadows, TT 31194
City of Menifee, California
L&L Environmental, Inc.
BIOLOGICAL AND CULTURAL
INVESTIGATIONS AND MONITORING
RLCC-03-187
October 2018
Project Vicinity
Burrowing Owl and Raptor Nest Surveys
Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California October 2018 RLCC-03-R187.BO8.NB3 final L&L 3
Figure 2
Project Location Map
(USGS Romoland 1979 quadrangle,
Sections 15 & 16, Township 6 South, Range 3 West)
Golden Meadows, TT 31194
City of Menifee, California
L&L Environmental, Inc.
BIOLOGICAL AND CULTURAL
INVESTIGATIONS AND MONITORING
RLCC-03-187
October 2018
Project Area
Burrowing Owl and Raptor Nest Surveys
Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California October 2018 RLCC-03-R187.BO8.NB3 final L&L 4
Figure 3
Aerial Photograph
(Photo obtained from Google Earth, February 2018)
Golden Meadows, TT 31194
City of Menifee, California
L&L Environmental, Inc.
BIOLOGICAL AND CULTURAL
INVESTIGATIONS AND MONITORING
RLCC-03-187
October 2018
Haun Road
Evans Road Garbani Road
Wickerd Road
Burrowing Owl and Raptor Nest Surveys
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1.2) Vegetation and Setting
Much of the subject property has been disturbed in association with previous dry-land farming and sheep grazing. As a result, these areas do not support native habitat communities. In the historically less disturbed area s of the property , remnants of California buckwheat scrub and chamise chaparral vegetation are present. Two (2) unimproved roads are present onsite.
A shallow drainage feature and mapped blue -line stream is present trending from the southwest/central to the northwest portion of the site. Much of this area has been impacted by agricultural activities and invasive plants, but several woody riparian species are presen t in association with this feature.
Land use s adjacent to the survey area include rural residential, agricultural, large animal husbandry, unimproved roads, powerline easements, off -road vehicle activity, storage, and debris piles. An unimproved road begins at the eastern terminus of Daniel Road and exits at the southeastern corner of the site near the Evans Road and Ascot Way intersection. Krubsack Road (unimproved) runs north-south through agricultural fields within the roughly west -central portion of t he property and connects with Wickerd Road to the south and Daniel Road to the north.
The agricultural fields are dry farmed for wheat. During 2018 surveys, the wheat crop appeared to have been mown/harvested early in the spring, prior to the start of surveys. The site has also been used for sheep grazing in the past, but no grazing was observed during the 2018 survey.
1.3) Soils and Topography
Soils on the project site were mapped by the Natural Resources Conservation Service (2018) as a mixture of several soil types, including Wyman loam (WyC2), Vallecitos loam (VeC2), Porterville clay (PsC), Yokohl loam (YbC and YbE3), Cajalco fine sandy loam (CaC2 and CaD2), Cajalco rocky fine sandy loam (CbF2), Honcut sandy loam (HnC and HnD2), Las Posas loam (LaD2), and Las Posas rocky loam (LkD2 and LkF3) (Figure 4). The most common soils mapped for the subject property are Wyman loam on the central and western portion of the site (in farmed areas) and Las Posas rocky loams on densely vegetated hillsides within the northern and eastern portions of the site. Clay soils are relatively uncommon on the site, but Porterville clay is present near the southeastern portion of the property within the agricultural areas. Soils observed onsite range from mostly sandy -loamy within the farmed areas to rocky loamy on the Burrowing Owl and Raptor Nest Surveys
Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California October 2018 RLCC-03-R187.BO8.NB3 final L&L 6
less disturbed vegetated hillsides. Cryptobiotic crusts are present, but only within less disturbed portions of the site away from previously farmed areas.
Topographically, much of the site is primarily flat and contains open lands with low -relief rocky outcrops and shallow depressions. Gently to steeply sloping hills and ridgelines are present within the northeastern portion of the property. The site has a combined maximum vertical relief of roughly 220 feet between highest and lowest points on the property, with elevation ranging from approximately 1,500 to 1,720 feet above mean sea level (AMSL).
Surrounding topographic features in the project vicinity include gently to steeply sloping hills and ridgelines interspersed with lower-lying relatively flat areas. Although most surrounding areas of the Paloma Valley are primarily flat, significant topographic features are present northwest and southwest of the property at elevations of approximately 1,760 to 1,820 feet AMSL. Bell Mountain, a significant topographic feature located approximately two (2) miles east of the subject property, rises to 1,848 feet AMSL.
Burrowing Owl and Raptor Nest Surveys
Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California October 2018 RLCC-03-R187.BO8.NB3 final L&L 7
CaC2 = Cajalco fine sandy loam, 2-8% slope, eroded
CaD2 = Cajalco fine sandy loam, 8-15% slope, eroded
CbD2 = Cajalco rocky fine sandy loam, 5-15% slope, eroded CbF2 = Cajalco rocky fine sandy loam, 15-50% slope, eroded CkD2 = Cieneba rocky sandy loam, 8-15% slope, eroded HnC = Honcut sandy loam, 2-8% slope
HnD2 = Honcut sandy loam, 8-15% slope, eroded
LaD2 = Las Posas loam, 8-15% slope, eroded
LaC = Las Posas loam, 2-8% slope
LaC2 = Las Posas loam, 5-8% slope, eroded
LkD2 = Las Posas rocky loam, 8-15% slope, eroded
LkF3 = Las Posas rocky loam, 15-50% slope, severely eroded PsC = Porterville clay
VeC2 = Vallecitos loam, eroded
WyC2 = Wyman loam, eroded
YbC = Yokohl loam, 2-8% slope
YbE3 = Yokohl loam, 8-25% slope, severely eroded
Figure 4
Soils Map
(Photo obtained from Google Earth, February 2016,
USDA Nat. Res. Cons. Serv. SSURGO Data)
Golden Meadows, TT 31194
City of Menifee, California
L&L Environmental, Inc.
BIOLOGICAL AND CULTURAL
INVESTIGATIONS AND MONITORING
RLCC-03-187
October 2018
Burrowing Owl and Raptor Nest Surveys
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2.0) REGULATORY ENVIRONMENT
2.1) Federal
2.1.1) Federal Endangered Species Act
By law, it is a requirement of the feder al Endangered Species Act (FESA), 1973 (as amended) at Section 7(a)(2) that federal agencies ensure that any action authorized, funded, or carried out by a federal agency is not likely to jeopardize the continued existence of any endangered species or thre atened species, or result in the destruction or adverse modification of critical habitat. In order to comply with this requirement, the federal agency must conduct a Biological Assessment (BA), in which effects to listed species are analyzed and disclosed in the form of an “effects determination.”
Section 7 requires federal agencies to consult with the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) should it be determined that their actions may affect federally listed threatened or endangered species. Section 9 of FESA prohibits “take” (e.g., harm, harassment, pursuit, injury, kill) of federally listed wildlife. “Harm” is further defined to include habitat modification or degradation where it kills or injures wildlife by impairing essential behavioral patterns s uch including breeding, feeding, or sheltering. Take that is incidental to otherwise lawful activities can be authorized under Section 7 of FESA.
Procedures for obtaining a permit for incidental take are identified under Section 7 of FESA for federal properties or where federal actions are involved and are identified under Section 10 of FESA for non -federal actions. During the Section 7 process, measures to avoid and minimize project effects to listed species and their habitat will be identified and incor porated into a Biological Opinion (prepared by the USFWS) that includes an incidental take by the federal agency and applicant.
The County of Riverside has been issued a Section 10(a) permit for the Western Riverside County Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (MSHCP), discussed below.
2.1.2) Migratory Bird Treaty Act
The federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) of 1918 (16 USC 703 -711) is an international treaty that makes it unlawful to take, pos sess, buy, sell, purchase, or barter any migratory bird listed in 50 CFR Part 10, including feathers or other parts, nests, eggs, or products, except as allowed by implementing regulations (50 CFR 21). Executive Order 13186 ensures that Burrowing Owl and Raptor Nest Surveys
Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California October 2018 RLCC-03-R187.BO8.NB3 final L&L 9
environmental analyses of federal actions required by the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) or other established environmental review processes evaluate the effects of actions on migratory birds, with emphasis on species of concern. Disturbance that causes nest abandonment and/or loss of reproductive effort (e.g., killing or abandonment of eggs or young) or loss of habitat upon which the birds depend could be considered “take” and constitute a violation of the MBTA.
2.2) State
2.2.1) California Endangered Species Act
California Endangered Species Act (CESA) definitions of endangered and threatened species parallel those defined in the FESA. The CESA defines an endangered spe cies as “. . . a native species or subspecies of a bird, mammal, fish, amphibian, reptile, or plant which is in serious danger of becoming extinct throughout all, or a significant portion, of its range due to one or more causes including loss of habitat, change in habitat, overexploitation, predation, competition or disease.” Endangered species are in serious danger of becoming extinct and threatened species are likely to become endangered species in the foreseeable future (according to Sections 2062 and 2 067, respectively, of the California Fish and Game Code). Candidate species are those under formal review by the CDFW for listing as endangered or threatened (Section 2067). Prior to being considered for protected status, the CDFW designates a species as being of special concern. Species of Special Concern are wildlife species for which the CDFW has information indicating population decline. Plant species of concern are designated by California Rare Plant Ranks.
2.2.2) California Natural Diversity Database
The California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB) includes documented occurrences of special status species that have been reported to the CDFW. It also includes ranks of overall condition of sensitive species and vegetation communities on global (throughout its range) and state (within California) levels. State ranking is numerical, ranging from one to five (S1 to S5), with one indicating very few remaining individuals or little remain ing habitat and five indicating a demonstrably secure to ineradicable population condition.
2.2.3) California Rare Plant Ranks
The California Native Plant Society (CNPS) Inventory of Rare and Endanger ed Species includes documented occurrences of special status plant species that are available through the Burrowing Owl and Raptor Nest Surveys
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Consortium of California Herbaria and other sources. The CNPS, in coordination with CDFW, has cataloged California's rare and endangered plants into lists according to population distributions and viability. These lists are numbered and indicate the following California Rare Plant Ranks (CRPR): (1A) presumed extinct in California; (1B) rare, threatened, or endangered throughout their range; (2A) presu med extirpated in California, but more common in other states; (2B) threatened or endangered in California, but more common in other states; (3) more information is needed to establish rarity; and (4) plants of limited distribution in California (i.e., naturally rare in the wild), but whose populations do not appear to be susceptible to threat. A CRPR may also have an extension (e.g., 1B.x) that indicates current level of threat: seriously threatened (x.1), moderately threatened (x.2), or not very threatened (x.3).
2.2.2) California Environmental Quality Act
The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and CEQA Guidelines (§ 15000 et seq.) require identification of environmental effects from discretionary projects. Significant effects are to be mitigated by avoidance, minimization, rectification, or compensation whenever possible.
Effects to all state and federal listed species are considered significant under CEQA. In addition to formally listed species, CEQA considers effects to species that are demonstrably endangered or rare as important or significant. These definitions can include state designated species of special concern, federal candidate and proposed species, CNDDB tracked speci es, and CRPR list 1B and list 2 plants.
Appendix G of the CEQA Guidelines specifically addresses biological resources and encompasses a broad range of resources to be considered.
2.2.3) California Fish and Game Code, Sections 3503 and 3513 California Fish and Game Code Section 3503 prohibits take, possession, or needless destruction of bird nests or eggs except as otherwise provided by the Code; Section 3503.5 prohibits take or possession of birds of prey or their eggs except as otherwise provided by the Code; and Section 3513 provides for the adoption of the provisions of the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act.
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2.3) Local
2.3.1) Western Riverside County Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan The County of Riverside, including eight (8) additional land jurisdictions and 14 cities , have prepared a Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (MSHCP) for western Riverside County.
The MSHCP will build upon existing preserves and provide connectivity and wildlife corridors throughout the region. The MSHCP proposes to conserve approximately 500,000 acres a nd 146 different species. Approximately 347,000 acres are anticipated to be conserved on existing Public/Quasi-Public lands with additional contributions of approximately 153,000 acres from willing sellers (http://www.rcip.org).
The MSHCP was approved by the county on June 17, 2003 and an Implementation Agreement (IA) between the USFWS, the CDFW, and the County was executed and an associated USFWS Section 10(a)(1)(B) Permit (No. TE -088609) was issued on June 22, 2004. The permit grants take authorization for certain species identified in the permit as "Covered Species Adequately Conserved."
The MSHCP establishes seven (7) core reserve areas and associated linkages between proposed and existing core areas. The MSHCP divides areas into Cells using USGS coordinates. According to the Riverside County Integrated Project website , parcels that compose the current project site are located within Sun City/Menifee Valley Area Plan.
Conservation efforts for the project site will be evaluated with regard to sensitiv e species identified as not adequately conserved and observed onsite, riverine/riparian or vernal pool habitat and their associated sensitive species (if located onsite), fairy shrimp, jurisdictional areas, and sage scrub.
Focused surveys are required for species identified as not adequately conserved under the MSHCP if suitable habitat is present onsite. If focused surveys are determined necessary and species identified as not adequately conserved under the MSHCP occur onsite, the proponent may be require d to undergo a Habitat Acquisition and Negotiation Strategy (HANS) determination with the County of Riverside. If a single family home or mobile home is to be placed on an existing legal lot , permitting will be reviewed according to the procedures outline d in MSHCP Section 6.1.1, Expedited Review Process for Single-Family Homes or Mobile Homes To Be Located on an Existing Lot Within the Criteria Area.
Section B (Species Accounts) of Volume 2 of the MSHCP (Dudek 2003) lists the following objectives for burrowing owl conservation/protection:
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Objective 1
Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area at least 27,470 acres of suitable primary habitat for the burrowing owl including grasslands.
Objective 2
Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area at least 5 Core Areas and interconnecting linkages. Core areas may include the following: (1) Lake Skinner/Diamond Valley Lake area (Existing Core C plus Proposed Extension of Existing Cores 5, 6, 7; 29,060 acres); (2) playa west of Hemet (Proposed Noncontiguous Habitat Block 7; 1,250 acres); (3) San Jacinto Wildlife Area/Mystic Lake area including Lake Perris area (Existing Core H; 17,470 acres); (4) Lake Mathews (Existing Core C plus Proposed Extension of Existing Cores 2; 23,710 acres); and (5) along the Santa Ana Riv er (9,670 acres). The Core Areas should support a combined total breeding population of approximately 120 burrowing owls with no fewer than five pairs in any one Core area.
Objective 3
Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area at least 22,120 acres of s uitable secondary habitat for the burrowing owl including playas and vernal pools, and agriculture outside of the Core Areas identified above. Areas where additional suitable habitat could be conserved include west of the Jurupa Mountains, near Temescal W ash (i.e., vicinity of Alberhill), near Temecula Creek, within the Lakeview Mountains, Banning, the Badlands, Gavilan Hills, and Quail Valley.
Objective 4
Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area the known nesting locations of the burrowing owl at Lake Perris, Mystic Lake/San Jacinto Wildlife area, Lake Skinner area, the area around Diamond Valley Lake, playa west of Hemet, Lakeview Mountains, Lake Mathews/Estelle Mountain Reserve and Sycamore Canyon Regional Park.
Objective 5
Surveys for burrowing owl will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the burrowing owl survey area where suitable habitat is present (see Burrowing Owl Survey Area Map, Figure 6 -4 of the MSHCP, Volume I). The locations of this sp ecies determined as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section 6.3.2, MSHCP, Volume I and the guidance provided below:
Burrowing owl surveys shall be conducted utilizing accepted protocols as follows.
If burrowing owls are detected on the project site then the action(s) taken will be as follows:
If the site is within the Criteria Area, then at least 90 percent of the area with long -term conservation value will be included in the MSHCP Conservation Area. Otherwise:
1) If the site contains, or is part of an area supporting less than 35 acres of suitable habitat or the survey reveals that the site and the Burrowing Owl and Raptor Nest Surveys
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surrounding area supports fewer than 3 pairs of burrowing owls, then the on -site burrowing owls will be passively or actively relocated following accepted protocols.
2) If the site (including adjacent areas) supports three or more pairs of burrowing owls, supports greater than 35 acres of suitable habitat and is non -contiguous with MSHCP Conservati on Area lands, at least 90 percent of the area with long -term conservation value and burrowing owl pairs will be conserved onsite.
The survey and conservation requirements stated in this objective will be eliminated when it is demonstrated that Objectives 1 – 4 have been met.
Objective 6
Pre-construction presence/absence surveys for burrowing owl within the survey area where suitable habitat is present will be conducted for all Covered Activities through the life of the permit. Surveys will be conducted within 30 days prior to disturbance. Take of active nests will be avoided. Passive relocation (use of one-way doors and collapse of burrows) will occur when owls are present outside the nesting season.
Objective 7
Translocation sites for the burrowing o wl will be created in the MSHCP Conservation Area for the establishment of new colonies. Translocation sites will be identified, taking into consideration unoccupied habitat areas, presence of burrowing mammals to provide suitable burrow sites, existing c olonies and effects to other Covered Species. Reserve Managers will consult with the Wildlife Agencies regarding site selection prior to translocation site development.
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3.0) METHODS AND PERSONNEL
3.1) Literature Review
Pertinent literature was reviewed to identify local occurrences and habitat requirements of special status species and communities occurring in the region. Literature reviewed included compendia provided by resource agencies ( CDFW 2018a, 2018b; USFWS 2018), the Western Riverside County MSHCP (Dudek 2003), California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB; CDFW 2018c) reports for the vicinity, and reports of previous surveys completed for the site (L&L 2003- 2018).
Latin names of plants follow The Jepson Manual (Hickman 1993) with updates from the online Jepson eFlora (Jepson 2018). Latin names of animals follow A Field Guide to Western Reptiles and Amphibians (Stebbins 1985), California Mammals (Jameson and Peeters 1988), Checklist of North American Birds (American Ornithologists’ Union 1983, 1989) and The Sibley Guide to Birds (Sibley 2000), and American Insects: A Handbook of the Insects of America North of Mexico (Arnett 2000). Vegetation community cla ssifications follow Sawyer et al. (2009).
Current conservation status of plant and wildlife species determined from CDFW (201 8a, 2018b). Other sources consulted for information regarding biological resources include Brown (1994), Recon (1985), Schoenherr (1990), and Small (1994).
3.2) Survey Methods
A habitat assessment , burrow survey, and focused burrowing owl surveys were conducted on four (4) site visits in May, June, and July 2018 (Table 1) . The surveys were c onducted in accordance with the Burrowing Owl Survey Instructions for the MSHCP. In addition, the site was examined to determine the possible presence/absence of nesting raptors on the property, in particular white-tailed kite.
MSHCP Burrowing Owl Survey Instructions require surveys to be conducted during the breeding season from March 1 to August 31. Surveys should be conducted during weather conditions that are conducive to detecting owls and owl sign. Surveys are not acceptable if they are conducted during rain, high winds (> 20 mph), dense fog, or temperatures over 90° F.
Surveys should be conducted in the morning one (1) hour before sunrise to two (2) hours after sunrise or in the early evening two (2) hours before sunset to one (1) hour after sunset .
Surveys were generally conducted in the early morning hours.
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Surveys were conducted by L&L field biologist Guy Bruyea . Mr Bruyea has extensive experience with surveys for burrowing owl and nesting birds . Weather conditions during the surveys are summarized in Table 1.
Table 1. Survey Information.
Date Time Sunrise* Weather Wind (mph)
05.24.2018 1030-1330 0545 Partly cloudy, 77-82º F 1-3
05.30.2018 0700-1030 0543 Cloudy, 68-77º F 0-4
06.14.2018 0730-1100 0541 Sunny/Clear, 76-87º F 3-8
07.04.2018 0700-1000 0546 Sunny/Clear, 74-86º F 0-2
*sunrise times from timeanddate.com
A total of about 13 person-hours were spent onsite. The site was examined for suitable burrow sites and for signs of occupation by BUOW, including pellets, feathers, whitewash, prey remains, and eggshell fragments, as well as individual BUOW. A search for potentially suitable burrows within dirt, wood, and rock debris piles, artificially created berms, and other locations was conduc ted during the surveys. The surveys were concentrated in areas typically associated with BUOW habitat, including open areas onsite and areas where California ground squirrel activity (i.e., suitable burrows) was expected. An additional 150-meter (500-foot) buffer area surrounding the site was visually inspected, where possible, in areas identified as potential BUOW habitat. Any developed areas were visually surveyed with binoculars due to trespassing concerns on private property.
Transects were walked throughout the property where suitable habitat is present. Coupled with binocular surveys of any restricted areas, this allowed for complete visual ground coverage of the survey area. Distance between transects was approximately 15 to 20 meters.
After disc overy of the active burrowing owl burrow on May 30, subsequent surveys included time spent surveilling the burrow, from a distance, for any activity or additional sightings of burrowing owl adults or young.
In addition, the site was examined to determine t he possible presence/absence of nesting raptors on the property, in particular white -tailed kite. This survey primarily focused on examining trees on and within 500 feet of the project site for evidence of raptor nesting.
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3.3) Species Information
3.3.1) Burrowing Owl
Burrowing owl (Athene cunicularia) is protected under the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act and California Fish and Game Code and is a CDFW Species of Spe cial Concern. Under the MSHCP, surveys are required in certain areas and mitigation is required as described in Section
2.3. Burrowing owl is a small, ground-dwelling owl found in open dry grassland, desert, or shrubland areas and in uncultivated agricultural areas, rangelands, and other open areas with low-growing vegetation. It ranges throughout the western U. S., Canada, and Mexico. It is a small (approximately 9 to 11 inches in height) pale brown owl with white -colored “eyebrows” and throat, yellow e yes, a short stubby tail, and long legs. Males are generally larger and more lightly colored than females. Burrowing owl is the most diurnal of owl species, but is considered mostly crepuscular (usually active around sunrise and sunset). Arthropods (mai nly beetles and grasshoppers) make up a large portion of their diet, especially during the breeding season.
Burrowing owls are opportunistic feeders and will readily eat small mammals (primarily mice, gophers, and ground squirrels), lizards, amphibians, and small birds.
Burrows are an essential element of burrowing owl habitat. Although burrowing owl s can excavate their own burrows in soft soils, they typically inhabit abandoned burrows of small burrowing mammals, such as ground squirrels and pocket gophers. Burrowing owl has also been known to use man-made structures such as cement culverts, debris piles, and other artificial burrows. Occupancy of burrowing owl habitat can be verified at a site by observation of at least one (1) owl or its molted feathe rs, cast pellets, prey remains, eggshell fragments, or excrement at or near a burrow entrance (CBOC 1993).
A site is considered occupied if at least one (1) owl has been identified onsite in the past three (3) years, because (if undisturbed) burrowing owls “exhibit high site fidelity, reusing burrows year after year” (Rich 1984, Feeny 1992). The range of this species is throughout the western United States and Mexico, but it is increasingly uncommon in southern California.
3.3.2) White-tailed Kite
White-tailed kite (Elanus leucurus) is a CDFW Fully Protected species. The classification of Fully Protected was California’s initial effort to identify and protect rare wildlife species.
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With a few exceptions, Fully Protected species have subsequently been listed under the California and/or Federal Endangered Species Acts . One of the exceptions is white -tailed kite, which is not state or federally listed, but retains its Fully Protected status.
The white -tailed kite forages in open grasslands, farmlands, meadows, and wetlands.
Nests are located near foraging areas in substantial groves of dense, broad -leafed trees.
Nests are built near the top of oaks, willows, or other trees, usually between 20 to 100 feet above the ground. The nest is composed of loosely piled sticks, lined with grass, straw, or rootlets. White-tailed kite breeds from February to October, with a peak from May to August (Zeiner et al. 1990).
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4.0) RESULTS
4.1) Literature Review Results
The project site is within the area covered by the Western Riverside County MSHCP. The MSHCP Conservation Summary Report identified the site as requiring an assessment with regard to potential habitat and presence/absence of burrowing owl. This and previous reports fulfill the MSHCP requirement of habitat assessment and presence/absence surveys for burrowing owl. Figure 5 shows the project site in relation to MSHCP core areas and linkages.
The 2006 Final Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for the project (T&B 2006) includes a mitigation measure (4.3-2) requiring a pre-construction survey for burrowing owl within 30 days prior to grading. If burrowing owl is present, mitigation is required per the MSHCP:
If the site contains or is part of an area supporting less than 35 acres of suitable habitat or the survey reveals that the site and surrounding area supports less than 3 pairs of burrowing owls, then the on -site burrowing owls sha ll be passively or actively relocated following accepted protocols.
If the site (including adjacent areas) supports 3 or more pairs of burrowing owls, supports greater than 35 acres of suitable habitat and is non -contiguous with MSHCP Conservation Area lan ds, at least 90 percent of the area with long -term conservation value and burrowing owl pairs shall be conserved on-site.
The EIR also includes a mitigation measure (4.3 -5) requiring a nesting raptor survey prior to issuance of grading permits and a CDFW I ncidental Take Permit (2080 permit) if white -tailed kite are documented as nesting on the project site.
The CNDDB (CDFW 2018 c) has documented occurrences of five (5) white -tailed kite nests within 10 miles of the project site (Figure 6):
Occurrence 38 is a pproximately 9.3 miles south -southwest of the project site. The occurrence is located at the Santa Rosa Plateau Preserve within oak savannah and native grassland at an elevation of 1,950 feet. Successful nesting was last documented in 1988 and 1989 and t he occurrence is presumed extant. Google Earth images show undisturbed habitat present in that area.
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Occurrence 39 is approximately 9.2 miles southwest of the project site. The occurrence is described as located on private land between two (2) parcels of Santa Rosa Plateau Preserve property. The habitat is oak savannah and native grassland at an elevation of 1,820 feet. The nest was last observed in 1989 (active nest, outcome unknown) and noted as threatened by proposed development. Examination of Goog le Earth images shows undisturbed habitat present in that area. The occurrence is presumed extant.
Occurrence 62 is approximately 7.5 miles southeast of the project site in Murrieta. The occurrence is located in southern riparian scrub habitat at an elev ation of 1,240 feet.
The record notes that the area was proposed for development, and Google Earth images now show the occurrence within a narrow area of habitat surrounded by residential developments. A pair of white -tailed kites was last observed in 19 99. The occurrence is presumed extant.
Occurrence 112 is approximately 9.4 miles west -northwest of the project site and just north of Lake Elsinore. The occurrence is located in willow riparian woodland at an elevation of 1,258 feet. Successful nesting was documented in 2006. Google Earth images show undisturbed habitat at that location. The occurrence is presumed extant.
Occurrence 115 is approximately 7.1 miles northeast of the project site. The occurrence is located in a small grove of trees associated with a rural residence in Winchester, north of Diamond Valley Lake. Agricultural fields are also present in the area. Successful nesting was documented in 2005 and 2006. Google Earth images show trees and agricultural fields remain in the area, as described in the CNDDB record. The occurrence is presumed extant.
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Figure 5
MSHCP Cores and Linkages
(Riverside County MSHCP)
Golden Meadows, TT 31194
City of Menifee, California
L&L Environmental, Inc.
BIOLOGICAL AND CULTURAL
INVESTIGATIONS AND MONITORING
RLCC-03-187
October 2018
Project Area
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Figure 6
White-tailed Kite
within 10 Miles
CDFW 2018c
Golden Meadows, TT 31194
City of Menifee, California
L&L Environmental, Inc.
BIOLOGICAL AND CULTURAL
INVESTIGATIONS AND MONITORING
RLCC-03-187
October 2018
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4.2) Vegetation Communities
Much of the subject property has been disturbed by recent and historic cultivation and sheep grazing and does not support native habitat. The agricultural fields are dry farmed for wheat.
During 2018 surveys, the wheat crop a ppeared to have been mown/harvested early in the spring, prior to the start of surveys.
Less disturbed areas are also present, primarily in the northeastern portions of the site, with a mixture of disturbed and relatively undisturbed California buckwheat scrub and chamise chaparral. Sparse riparian vegetation and trees are found along the blue -line stream in t he northwestern/central portion of the site (Figure 7).
Evidence of widespread sheep grazing was observed throughout all areas of the site in 2013.
Hillsides containing California buckwheat scrub along the farmland edges, especially to the north and east, had been severely damaged by sheep grazing. Very few annuals remain ed (none in some areas) and many of the perennials have been stripped of vegetat ion and/or trampled. No evidence of recent sheep grazing was observed during surveys in 2017 and 2018 and regrowth of native annuals and perennials was observed in the buckwheat scrub areas.
Relatively undisturbed California buckwheat scrub (Eriogonum fasciculatum Shrubland Alliance) is present on the eastern and northern (primarily northeastern) portion of the site on south, west, and east -facing slopes containing numerous rocky outcrops. Native shrubs and other conspicuous plants commonly observed in th ese areas include California buckwheat (Eriogonum fasciculatum ), California sagebrush ( Artemisia californica ), white sage ( Salvia apiana), brittlebush ( Encelia farinosa ), yellow bush penstemon ( Keckiella antirrhinoides ), wishbone bush ( Mirabilis laevis var. crassifolia), sweetbush ( Bebbia juncea ), blue elderberry (Sambucus nigra ssp. cerulea), and black sage ( Salvia mellifera). Approximately 44.2 acres of California buckwheat scrub is present onsite and an additional ±0.6 acre is located within offsite improvement areas. Open patches can be found throughout portions of the buckwheat scrub onsite containing a mixture of native and non -native annuals . This vegetation community is ranked by CDFW (2018d) as S5 (secure – common, widespread, and abundant) and it is not considered sensitive.
Chamise chaparral ( Adenostema fasciculatum Shrubland Alliance) or chamise –black sage chaparral ( Adenostema fasciculatum –Salvia mellifera Shrubland Alliance) is found mainly in small patches of remnant habitat, excluding the e ast-central property boundary where some relatively dense stands remain and mix with California buckwheat scrub. Common species Burrowing Owl and Raptor Nest Surveys
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found in the chaparral areas onsite are chamise ( Adenostoma fasciculatum), black sage, and other perennials. Approximately ±2.1 acres of chaparral are present onsite, with an additional ±0.6 acre located within offsite improvement areas. CDFW ranks these chaparral communities as S5 and they are not considered sensitive.
Arroyo willow thickets ( Salix lasiolepis Shrubland Alliance ) and mulefat thickets ( Baccharis salicifolia Shrubland Alliance) are present along a degraded blue -line stream in the northwestern/central portions of the site. This area is sparsely inhabited by arroyo willow (Salix lasiolepis), mulefat (Baccharis salicifolia), or a combination of these species. A single Fremont cottonwood tree (Populus fremontii ssp. fremontii) and scattered non-native tamarisks (Tamarix species) were also observed. The understory is dominated by mostly weedy annuals.
Approximately 2 .3 acres of this habitat is present onsite. CDFW ranks both of these communities as S4 (apparently secure – uncommon but not rare, some cause for long -term concern due to declines or other factors) and they are not considered sensitive.
Approximately 75 p ercent of the site is composed of agricultural areas under cultivation for wheat. During 2018 surveys, the wheat crop appeared to have been mown/harvested early in the spring, prior to the start of surveys. Weedy annuals, mostly mustards, have proliferat ed in the fields. Disturbed habitat on the site includes unvegetated areas (such as roads) and areas that contain mostly non -native plant species, including ornamentals and ruderal invasive species. There are ±158.5 acres of disturbed and/or agricultural land onsite, with an additional ±2.5 acres within offsite improvement areas.
4.3) Plant Species
Under the MSHCP, no surveys or assessments were required for Narrow Endemic, Criteria Area, or additional needs botanic al species on the project site. The site does not support habitat, soils, and/or vegetation associated with naturally occurring vernal pools and would therefore not support associated special status plant species, nor were these species observed.
One (1) special status plant species was observed onsite in 2017, long -spined spineflower (Chorizanthe polygonoides var. longispina; CRPR 1B.2). Two (2) plants were observed on clay soils in the northeast portion of the site along an east -west ridgeline. Under t he MSHCP, this species is considered to be adequately conserved.
A list of all plant species identified onsite during past and present surveys is included in Appendix A.
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4.4) Wildlife Species
A combined total of 5 9 wildlife species have been detected during all biological surveys of the site by L&L. A list of all wildlife species identified onsite is provided in Appendix A.
Biological surveys conducted on the project site by L&L from 2003 to 2017 (L&L 2003a, 2003b , 2004a, 2004b, 2004c, 2005, 2006a, 2006b, 2007, 2011, 2013, 2017) detected the following special status species (Figures 8 through 10):
coastal California gnatcatcher ( Polioptila californica californica ; federal threatened, CDFW Species of Special Concern, MSHCP Adequately Conserved), white-tailed kite ( Elanus leucurus ; California Fully Protected , MSHCP Adequately Conserved),
coast horned lizard (Phrynosoma blainvillii; CDFW Species of Special Concern, MSHCP Adequately Conserved),
coastal (western) whiptai l ( Aspidoscelis tigris stejnegeri ; CDFW Species of Special Concern, MSHCP Adequately Conserved),
northern harrier ( Circus cyaneus ; CDFW Species of Special Concern , MSHCP Adequately Conserved),
San Diego black-tailed jackrabbit (Lepus californicus bennetti; CDFW Species of Special Concern, MSHCP Adequately Conserved),
orange-throated whiptail ( Aspidoscelis hyperythra ; CDFW Watch List , MSHCP Adequately Conserved),
Cooper’s hawk (Accipiter cooperi; CDFW Watch List, MSHCP Adequately Conserved), California horn ed lark ( Eremophila alpestris actia ; CDFW Watch List , MSHCP Adequately Conserved),
Costa’s hummingbird (Calypte costae; CDFW Special Animal, not covered by MSHCP). great blue heron (fly over) ( Ardea herodias; CDFW Special Animal, MSHCP Adequately Conserved),
All of these species are considered Adequately Conserved under the MSHCP except Costa’s hummingbird, which is not covered under the MSHCP.
Four (4) special status species were observed or detected during the current survey (Figure 11):
burrowing owl, coastal California gnatcatcher, California horned lark, and black-tailed jackrabbit.
All were previously observed onsite, except burrowing owl.
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4.4.1) Burrowing Owl
Previous focused surveys for burrowing owl (2005 , 2006, 2007, 2011, and 2013) did not detect burrowing owls utilizing the site. However, one (1) location may have been used in the relatively recent past, based on presence of a single feather found during the 2013 survey at an entrance to a hole beneath a grouping of medium -sized rocks. No burrowing owl or sign was observed during 2017 general biological surveys.
Focused surveys in 2018 observed a single burrowing owl onsite and one (1) burrow with signs of occupation (Figure 11). The owl was observed on May 30, 2018. The occupied burrow was found very close to where the owl was observed. Pellets, scat, feathers, owl tracks, and pieces of shredded cloth were observed at the burrow entrance. It was not determined if the owl was using the burrow for nesting purposes. The burrow was surveilled during subsequent site visits, but there were no additional observations of burrowing owl adults or juveniles. Coyote and/or dog tracks were observed around the burrow, but the burrow itself was not disturbed and there were no signs that owls had been predated. No other active burrows or burrowing owls were observed during surveys.
California ground squirrel activity onsite has increased substantially from that observed in 2017, possibly due to a recent reduction in disturbance associated with farming (i.e., mowing the crop early and leaving the fields undisturbed afterward) . This has led to an increase in potential burrows for burrowing owl.
4.4.2) Raptor Nests
One (1) wh ite-tailed kite was observed flying over the property in 2011 . This species was not observed utilizing the site for foraging or nesting during previous surveys.
There is habitat suitable for nesting birds (including raptors) within and around the site. S ome relatively large eucalyptus trees are present on the western portion of the site and along the western boundary along Evans Road. Red -tailed hawks ( Buteo jamaicensis ) have been observed onsite and may be utilizing the trees for nesting.
A potential (unoccupied) raptor nest site was found in a large eucalyptus tree within the cent ral portion of the site in 2013. It is located in a eucalyptus tree in the west-central portion of the site (Figure 11). No raptors were observed utilizing the nest site during surveys in 2013 and 2017 or Burrowing Owl and Raptor Nest Surveys
Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California October 2018 RLCC-03-R187.BO8.NB3 final L&L 26
the current survey. Although potentially suitable habitat is present, t here is no evidence that white-tailed kite is using the site for nesting.
4.5) Jurisdictional Areas (MSHCP Riparian/Riverine and Vernal Pool Habitat) The subject site contains woody, water -dependent vegetation. Arroyo willow, Fremont cottonwood, and mulefat are present within the mapped features (Figure 12). An ephemeral stream is present and mapped as a USGS blue -line stream. Surface water was not observed within any of the onsite drainage features during the 2013 or 2017 surveys. An updated jurisdictional delineation was completed in 2011, revised in 2013, and updated and verified in 2018 (L&L 2011, 2018).
Soil types within the study area are not consistent with an alkali playa or vernal pool complex and pools or depressions characteristic of vernal pool habitat were not noted as present onsite.
No MSHCP species listed for protection associated with riparian/riverine areas and vernal pools were observed. No fairy shrimp or potential fairy shrimp habitat was observed during this study.
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L&L Environmental, Inc.
BIOLOGICAL AND CULTURAL
INVESTIGATIONS AND MONITORING
RLCC-03-187
October 2018
Figure 7
Vegetation Community Map
(Photo obtained from Google Earth, February 2016)
Golden Meadows, TT 31194
City of Menifee, California
Burrowing Owl and Raptor Nest Surveys
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L&L Environmental, Inc.
BIOLOGICAL AND CULTURAL
INVESTIGATIONS AND MONITORING
RLCC-03-187
October 2018
Figure 8
Special Status Species – 2011
(Photo obtained from Google Earth, February 2016)
Golden Meadows, TT 31194
City of Menifee, California
Burrowing Owl and Raptor Nest Surveys
Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California October 2018 RLCC-03-R187.BO8.NB3 final L&L 29
L&L Environmental, Inc.
BIOLOGICAL AND CULTURAL
INVESTIGATIONS AND MONITORING
RLCC-03-187
October 2018
Figure 9
Special Status Species – 2013
(Photo obtained from Google Earth, February 2016)
Golden Meadows, TT 31194
City of Menifee, California
Burrowing Owl and Raptor Nest Surveys
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L&L Environmental, Inc.
BIOLOGICAL AND CULTURAL
INVESTIGATIONS AND MONITORING
RLCC-03-187
October 2018
Figure 10
Special Status Species – 2017
(Photo obtained from Google Earth, February 2016)
Golden Meadows, TT 31194
City of Menifee, California
Burrowing Owl and Raptor Nest Surveys
Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California October 2018 RLCC-03-R187.BO8.NB3 final L&L 31
L&L Environmental, Inc.
BIOLOGICAL AND CULTURAL
INVESTIGATIONS AND MONITORING
RLCC-03-187
October 2018
Figure 11
Sensitive Species – 2018
(Photo obtained from Google Earth, February 2018)
Golden Meadows, TT 31194
City of Menifee, California
Burrowing Owl and Raptor Nest Surveys
Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California October 2018 RLCC-03-R187.BO8.NB3 final L&L 32
1 Figure 12
Jurisdictional Areas (2018)
(Photo obtained from Google Earth, 3-9-2011)
Golden Meadows, TT 31194
City of Menifee, California
L&L Environmental, Inc.
BIOLOGICAL AND CULTURAL
INVESTIGATIONS AND MONITORING
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October 2018
1 1b
4 2
3 Burrowing Owl and Raptor Nest Surveys
Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California October 2018 RLCC-03-R187.BO8.NB3 final L&L 33
5.0) IMPACTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
The purpose of this study was to identify biological resources on the project site , specifically burrowing owl and raptor nesting, white-tailed kite in particular.
The impacts and recommendations identified are based on the literature review, knowledge of species and habitats in the site vicinity, and the biological field survey. The i nformation in this section is intended to serve as a planning tool for making decisions about future development of the project site.
One (1) burrowing owl and one (1) active burrow were identified onsite during the breeding season survey. Disturbance of occupied burrows must be avoided during the breeding season.
CDFW recommends a buffer of 1,640 feet (500 meters) between a nesting site and high levels of disturbance (such as grading). Continued farming is recommended to discourage burrowing owls. If three (3) or more pairs of burrowing owl are found to be utilizing the site and there are greater than 35 acres of suitable habitat that is non -contiguous with MSHCP Conservation Area lands, the MSHCP requires conservation of at least 90 percent of the area with long -term conservation value and burrowing owl pairs.
Burrowing owls may be relocated outside of the nesting season. A winter burrowing owl survey is recommended to determine if the owl is a resident. Preparation of a Burrowing Owl Exclusion Plan is recommended to address relocation of the owl(s) on the project site. A preconstruction clearance survey (valid for 30 days) will also be required.
Trees and other vegetation and habitat suitable for nesting birds are present within and around the site and a potential raptor nest site (unoccupied) is present onsite. Based upon presence of potential nesting habitat, a preconstruction clearance survey for nesting birds (raptors in particular) is recommended prior to any site disturbance during the nesting season (generally February 1 through August 31). If nesting birds are present, avoidance of nests will be required and a buffer of at least 500 feet is recommended until juvenile birds have fledged and/or an authorized biologist has verified that the nest has become inactive.
Previous surveys identified one (1) special status plant species, long-spined spineflower. Under the MSHCP, this species is considered to be Adequately Conserved. Special status wildlife species observed during surveys include coastal California gnatcatcher, California horned lark, San Diego black-tailed jackrabbit, great blue heron , coast horned lizard, Cooper’s hawk, white- tailed kite , northern harrier, and Costa’s hummingbird. All of these species are considered Burrowing Owl and Raptor Nest Surveys
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Adequately Conserved under the MSHCP except Costa’s hummingbird, which is not covered under the MSHCP.
Soil types are not consistent with an alkali playa or vernal pool complex and pools or depressions characteristic of vernal pool habitat were not identified onsite. No MSHCP species listed for protection associated with riparian/riverine areas and vernal pools were observed. No fairy shrimp or potential fairy shrimp habitat was observed during this study.
Jurisdictional areas were identified onsite and have been reported previously. Regulatory permits from the USACE, CDFW, and RWQCB will be required for impacts to jurisdictional areas.
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6.0) REFERENCES
American Ornithologists Union. 1983, 1989. Checklist of North American Birds.
Arnett, Ross H. Jr. 2000. American Insects: A Handbook of the Insects of America North of Mexico. CRC Press, New York, New York. 1003 pp.
Brown, David E. 1994. Biotic Communities: Southwestern United States and Mexico .
University of Utah Press, Salt Lake City, Utah. 342 pp.
CBOC (California Burrowing Owl Consortium). 1993. California Burrowing Owl Survey Protocol and Mitigation Guidelines.
CDFW (California Department of Fish and Wildlife). 2018a. Special Animals List, August.
_____. 2018b. Special Vascular Plants, Bryophytes, and Lichens List, April.
_____. 2018c. California Natural Diversity Database.
_____. 2018d. California Natural Community List.
https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=153398&inline
Dudek (Dudek & Associates, Inc.). 2003. Western Riverside County MSHCP, Vol. I. The Plan and Vol. II-A through E. The MSHCP Reference Document.
Feeney, L. 1992. Site fidelity in burrowing owls. Unpublished paper presented to Raptor Research Annual Meeting, November 1992. Seattle, Washington.
Hickman, J. (editor). 1993. The Jepson Manual: Higher Plants of California . University of California Press, Berkeley, California.
Jameson, E. W. and H. J. Peeters. 1988. California Mammals. University of California Press, Berkeley.
Jepson (Jepson Flora Project, eds.) 2018. Jepson eFlora. http://ucjeps.berkeley.edu/eflora/
L&L (L&L Environmental, Inc.) 2003a. General Biological Survey Report for the Menifee Tract 31194 Riverside County, California.
_____. 2003b. Jurisdictional Delineation for the Menifee Assemblage APN #360-300-002, 003- 006, 008, and 360-350-001, Menifee, Riverside County, California.
_____. 2004 a. A Spring Botanical Survey, on Tract 31194, Menifee Assemblage, Riverside County, California.
_____. 2004 b. Focused Survey for the Quino Checkerspot Butterfly on Tract 31194, Menifee Assemblage, Riverside County, California.
Burrowing Owl and Raptor Nest Surveys
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_____. 2004c. Focused Survey for the Coastal California Gnatcatcher on Tract 31194, Menifee Assemblage, Riverside County, California.
_____. 2005. A Burrowing Owl Species Survey for the Menifee Assemblage Project Menifee, Riverside County, California.
_____. 2006a. Focused Breeding Season Burrowing Owl Habitat Assessment and Burrow Survey for Menifee Assemblage, Riverside County, California.
_____. 2006b. Focused Least Bell’s Vireo and Southwestern Willow Flycatcher Survey and Habitat Assessment for Yellow -Billed Cuckoo for the Menifee Assemblage Site, County of Riverside, California.
_____. 2007. Focused Breeding S eason Burrowing Owl Habitat Assessment and Burrow Survey for Menifee Assemblage, Riverside County, California.
_____. 2011 (2012 & 2013 revisions). Revised Updated Biological Assessment, Burrowing Owl, and Jurisdictional Delineation Surveys for Tract 31194, Golden Meadows, City of Menifee, California.
_____. 2013. Biological Assessment and Breeding Season Burrowing Owl Surveys for TR 31194, Golden Meadows, City of Menifee, California.
_____. 2017. Biological Assessment and Botanical Surveys for Tract 31194, Golden Meadows, City of Menifee, California.
_____. 2018. Updated Jurisdictional Delineation for TR 31194, Golden Meadows, City of Menifee, California.
NRCS (USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service). 2018. Soil Survey Geographic [SSURGO] Database.
http://www.ncgc.nrcs.usda.gov/products/datasets/ssurgo/index.html
Recon. 1985. The Distribution, Status, and Conservation of Vernal Pool and Alkali Playa Wetlands of the Upper Salt Creek Drainage, Hemet, California.
Rich, T. 1984. Monitoring Burrowing Owl populations: implications of burrow re -use. Wildl.
Soc. Bull. 12: 178-180.
Sawyer, John O. , T. Keeler-Wolf, and J. M. Evens. 2009. A Manual of California Vegetation , 2nd Edition. California Native Plant Society, Sacramento, California. 1300 pp.
Schoenherr, Allan A . (editor). 1990. Endangered Plant Communities of Southern California .
Southern California Botanists, Claremont, California. 114 pp.
Sibley, David Allen. 2000. The Sibley Guide to Birds . Alfred A. Knopf, Inc., New Yo rk, New York. 545 pp.
Small, Arnold. 1994. California Birds: Their Status and Distribution . Ibis Publishing Company, Vista, California. 342 pp.
Burrowing Owl and Raptor Nest Surveys
Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California October 2018 RLCC-03-R187.BO8.NB3 final L&L 37
Stebbins, R. C. 1985. Western Reptiles and Amphibians . Houghton Mifflin Company, Boston Mass.
T&B (T& B Planning Consultants, Inc.) 2006. Final Environmental Impact Report No. 458.
Tentative Tract map No. 31194, Change of Zone No. 06764, General Plan Amendment No. 00729 (SCH No. 2003061122), Riverside County, California.
USFWS ( U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service). 2018. Information for Planning and Consultation (IPaC), https://ecos.fws.gov/ipac/
USGS ( U. S. Geological Survey). 19 79. Romoland, California 7.5-Minute topographic map.
USGS, Denver, Colorado.
Zeiner, D.C., W. F.Laudenslayer, Jr., K. E. Mayer, and M. White, eds. 1990. California's Wildlife: Birds. California Department of Fish and Game, Sacramento, California.
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APPENDIX A: Plant and Wildlife Species
Table 2. Plant and wildlife species. Plant and wildlife species identified on the Golden Meadows site during surveys from 2003 to 2018. One asterisk ( *) indicates a non -native species; two asterisks (**) indicates a special s tatus species; a question mark (?) indicates uncertainty regarding identification or native status. Wildlife species list excludes invertebrates.
Plants [N=115]
Scientific Name Common Name
VASCULAR PLANTS
Dicotyledons
ADOXACEAE MUSKROOT FAMILY
Sambucus nigra ssp. cerulea
(S. mexicana)
Mexican elderberry, blue elderberry
AMARANTHACEAE AMARANTH FAMILY
* Amaranthus albus Tumbleweed, tumbling pigweed
ANACARDIACEAE SUMAC or CASHEW FAMILY
* Schinus molle
Peruvian pepper tree
APIACEAE CELERY FAMILY
Daucus pusillus
Rattlesnake weed, wild carrot
ASTERACEAE ASTER FAMILY
Acourtia microcephala
(Perezia microcephala)
Scapellote, perezia
Ambrosia acanthicarpa Annual bur-sage, annual sandbur
* Anthemis cotula
Mayweed, dog mayweed
Artemisia californica California sagebrush
Baccharis salicifolia (B.
glutinosa)
Mulefat
Bebbia juncea Sweetbush
* Centaurea melitensis
Tocalote
Chaenactis artemisiifolia
White pincushion, wormwood pincushion
Corethrogyne filaginifolia var.
filaginifolia
(Lessingia filaginifolia)
California-aster, sand-aster
Deinandra fasciculata
(Hemizonia fasciculata)
Fascicled tarplant, slender tarweed
Encelia farinosa
Brittlebush
Erigeron canadensis
(Conyza canadensis)
Horseweed, mare's tail
Eriophyllum confertiflorum
Golden-yarrow
Eriophyllum multicaule
Many-stem woolly daisy
Gutierrezia californica (G.
bracteata) California matchweed
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Scientific Name Common Name
Helianthus annuus Western sunflower
* Lactuca serriola Prickly lettuce
Lasthenia californica
(L. chrysostoma)
California goldfields
Layia platyglossa
Tidy-tips
Logfia filaginoides
(Filago californica)
California filago
*
Matricaria discoidea
(Chamomilla suaveolens,
M. matricarioides)
Pineapple weed
Rafinesquia californica California chicory
* Senecio vulgaris Common groundsel
* Sonchus oleraceus Common sow thistle
Stephanomeria virgata
Wreath plant
Stylocline gnaphaloides Everlasting neststraw
Tetradymia comosa
Hairy horsebrush, common-thorn
Uropappus lindleyi
(Microseris lindleyi, M.
linearifolia)
Silverpuffs
*? Xanthium spinosum
Spiny cocklebur
BORAGINACEAE BORAGE OR WATERLEAF FAMILY
Amsinckia intermedia
(A. menziesii var. intermedia)
Large flower rancher's fiddleneck
Cryptantha intermedia Common cryptantha
Heliotropium curassavicum Wild heliotrope
Pectocarya linearis
Slender pectocarya
Phacelia minor Wild Canterbury bells
Phacelia ramosissima
Branching phacelia
Plagiobothrys sp. Popcornflower
BRASSICACEAE MUSTARD FAMILY
* Brassica nigra
Black mustard
* Hirschfeldia incana
(Brassica geniculata)
Shortpod mustard
Lepidium nitidum
Shining peppergrass
* Raphanus sativus
Wild radish
* Sisymbrium irio London rocket
* Sisymbrium orientale
Wild mustard, hare's ear cabbage
Thysanocarpus curvipes Lacepod
CACTACEAE CACTUS FAMILY
Cylindropuntia californica var.
parkeri (Opuntia parryi)
Valley cholla
CHENOPODIACEAE GOOSEFOOT FAMILY
* Chenopodium murale
Nettle-leaved goosefoot, lamb's quarters
* Salsola tragus Russian thistle
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Scientific Name Common Name
CONVOLVULACEAE MORNING-GLORY FAMILY
Calystegia macrostegia
Morning-glory
Cuscuta californica
Chaparral dodder, witch's hair
CRASSULACEAE STONECROP FAMILY
Crassula connata (C. erecta)
Pygmy-weed, pygmy stonecrop
CUCURBITACEAE GOURD FAMILY, CUCUMBER FAMILY
Cucurbita foetidissima Calabazilla
Marah macrocarpa Chilicothe, wild cucumber
EUPHORBIACEAE SPURGE FAMILY
Croton setiger (C. setigerus,
Eremocarpus setiger, E.
setigerus)
Turkey-mullein, doveweed
Euphorbia albomarginata
(Chamaesyce
albomarginata)
Rattlesnake sandmat, rattlesnake weed
FABACEAE LEGUME FAMILY, PEA FAMILY
Acmispon americanus
(Lotus purshianus, L.
unifoliatus)
"Spanish" clover
Acmispon glaber
(Lotus scoparius)
Deerweed
Lupinus sp.
Unid. lupine
Lupinus bicolor
Miniature lupine, dove lupine
* Medicago polymorpha
California burclover
* Vicia villosa
Winter vetch
GERANIACEAE GERANIUM FAMILY
* Erodium botrys
Long-beak filaree
* Erodium cicutarium Redstem filaree
LAMIACEAE MINT FAMILY
* Marrubium vulgare Horehound
Salvia apiana White sage
Salvia columbariae Chia
Salvia mellifera
Black sage
Trichostema lanceolatum
Vinegar weed
MALVACEAE MALLOW FAMILY
* Malva parviflora Cheeseweed
MYRSINACEAE MYRSINE FAMILY
* Anagallis arvensis
Scarlet pimpernel
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Scientific Name Common Name
MYRTACEAE MYRTLE FAMILY, EUCALYPTUS FAMILY
* Eucalyptus sp. Ornamental eucalyptus
NYCTAGINACEAE FOUR O'CLOCK FAMILY
Mirabilis laevis var. crassifolia
(M. californica)
Wishbone bush
ONAGRACEAE EVENING-PRIMROSE FAMILY
Camissonia sp. Unid. evening-primrose
Eulobus californica
(Camissonia
californica)
California false mustard, mustard evening primrose
PAPAVERACEAE POPPY FAMILY
Eschscholzia californica
California poppy
PHRYMACEAE LOPSEED FAMILY
Mimulus aurantiacus
(M. puniceus, M. longiflorus)
Bush monkeyflower,sticky monkeyflower
Mimulus guttatus
Seep monkeyflower
PLANTAGINACEAE PLANTAIN FAMILY
Antirrhinum nuttallianum
Nuttall snapdragon, violet snapdragon
Keckiella antirrhinoides
Yellow bush-penstemon
Plantago erecta
California plantain
POLEMONIACEAE PHLOX FAMILY
Eriastrum sapphirinum Sapphire woollystar
Navarretia hamata
Hooked navarretia
POLYGONACEAE BUCKWHEAT FAMILY
Chorizanthe fimbriata
Fringed spineflower
**
Chorizanthe polygonoides var.
longispina
Long-spined spineflower
Eriogonum fasciculatum
var. foliolosum
Leafy California wild buckwheat, interior California
buckwheat
Eriogonum fasciculatum
var. polifolium
Mojave Desert California buckwheat
*
Polygonum aviculare ssp.
depressum (P. arenastrum)
Common knotweed
* Rumex crispus
Curly dock
ROSACEAE ROSE FAMILY
Adenostoma fasciculatum
Chamise
RUBIACEAE MADDER FAMILY, COFFEE FAMILY
*? Galium aparine
Goose grass, annual bedstraw
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Scientific Name Common Name
SALICACEAE WILLOW FAMILY
Populus fremontii ssp.
fremontii
Fremont cottonwood
Salix lasiolepis
Arroyo willow
SCROPHULARIACEAE FIGWORT FAMILY, SNAPDRAGON FAMILY
Scrophularia californica
California figwort, coast figwort
SOLANACEAE NIGHTSHADE FAMILY
Datura wrightii (D. meteloides) Jimsonweed, tolguacha
* Nicotiana glauca Tree tobacco
*?
Solanum americanum
(S. nodiflorum)
White nightshade
TAMARICACEAE TAMARISK FAMILY
* Tamarix species Tamarisk
URTICACEAE NETTLE FAMILY
* Urtica urens
Dwarf nettle
ZYGOPHYLLACEAE CALTROP FAMILY
* Tribulus terrestris Puncture vine
Monocotyledons
AGAVACEAE CENTURY PLANT FAMILY, AGAVE FAMILY
Hesperoyucca whipplei
(Yucca whipplei)
Chaparral yucca
LILIACEAE LILY FAMILY
Calochortus splendens
Splendid mariposa lily
POACEAE GRASS FAMILY
* Avena barbata
Slender wild oat
* Avena fatua
Wild oat
* Bromus species Non-native brome
* Bromus diandrus (B. rigidus)
Ripgut brome
* Bromus madritensis ssp.
rubens (B. rubens)
Red brome
* Hordeum murinum
Wall barley, hare barley
* Lamarckia aurea
Goldentop grass
* Phalaris species
Unid. canary grass
* Schismus barbatus
Mediterranean schismus
* Triticum aestivum
Common wheat (cultivated)
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Scientific Name Common Name
THEMIDACEAE BRODIAEA FAMILY
Dichelostemma capitatum
(D. pulchella, Brodiaea
pulchella)
Blue dicks, wild hyacinth
Muilla maratima Common muilla
* non-native species ** special status species
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Wildlife [N=57]
Scientific Name Common Name
VERTEBRATES
Reptiles
Iguanidae Iguanid Lizards
Sceloporus orcutti
Granite spiny lizard
Uta stansburiana
Side-blotched lizard
Phrynosomatidae Spiny Lizards
** Phrynosoma blainvillii
Coast horned lizard
Teiidae Whiptails and Relatives
** Aspidoscelis hyperythra
Orange-throated whiptail
** Aspidoscelis tigris stejnegeri
Coastal (western) whiptail
Birds
Accipitridae Hawks, Eagles, and Harriers
** Accipiter cooperii Cooper's hawk
Buteo jamaicensis
Red-tailed hawk
** Circus cyaneus
Northern harrier
** Elanus leucurus
White-tailed kite
Aegithalidae Long-tailed Tits
Psaltriparus minimus
Bushtit
Alaudidae Larks
** Eremophila alpestris actia
California horned lark
Apodidae Swifts
Aeronautes saxatalis
White-throated swift
Ardeidae Herons
** Ardea herodias
Great blue heron (fly over)
Cathartidae Vultures
Cathartes aura
Turkey vulture
Charadriidae Plovers
Charadrius vociferus
Killdeer
Columbidae Pigeons and Doves
* Columba livia
Rock dove, common pigeon
Zenaida macroura
Mourning dove
Corvidae Crows and Jays
Aphelocoma californica
California scrub jay
Corvus brachyrhynchos
American crow
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Scientific Name Common Name
Corvus corax
Common raven
Cuculidae Cuckoos
Geococcyx californianus
Greater roadrunner
Emberizidae Emberizine Sparrows
Amphispiza belli
Sage sparrow
Melospiza melodia
Song sparrow
Pipilo crissalis senicula
California towhee
Zonotrichia leucophrys
White-crowned sparrow
Falconidae Falcons
Falco sparverius
American kestrel
Fringillidae Finches
Carduelis psaltria
Lesser goldfinch
Haemorhous (Carpodacus) mexicanus
House finch
Hirundinidae Swallows
Petrochelidon pyrrhonota tachina
Cliff swallow
Stelgidopteryx serripennis
Northern rough-winged swallow
Icteridae Icterids
Agelaius phoeniceus
Red-winged blackbird
Euphagus cyanocephalus
Brewer's blackbird
Icterus bullockii
Bullock's oriole
Sturnella neglecta
Western meadowlark
Mimidae Mockingbirds
Mimus polyglottos polyglottos
Northern mockingbird
Toxostoma redivivum
California thrasher
Odontophoridae Quail
Callipepla californica californica
California quail
Parulidae Wood Warblers
Dendroica coronata
Yellow-rumped warbler
Picidae Woodpeckers
Colaptes auratus
Northern flicker
Picoides nuttallii
Nuttall's woodpecker
Polioptilidae Gnatcatchers
Polioptila caerulea
Blue-gray gnatcatcher
** Polioptila californica californica
Coastal California gnatcatcher
Strigidae Owls
** Athene cunicularia
Burrowing owl
Sturnidae Starlings
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Scientific Name Common Name
* Sturnus vulgaris
European starling
Timaliidae Babblers
Chamaea fasciata
Wrentit
Trochilidae Hummingbirds
Calypte anna
Anna's hummingbird
** Calypte costae
Costa's hummingbird
Troglodytidae Wrens
Catherpes mexicanus
Canyon wren
Thryomanes bewickii
Bewick's wren
Turdidae Thrushes
Sialia mexicana
Western bluebird
Tyrannidae Tyrant Flycatchers
Sayornis nigricans
Black phoebe
Sayornis saya
Say's phoebe
Tyrannus verticalis
Western kingbird
Mammals
Canidae Dogs, Foxes, and Coyotes
Canis domesticus
Domestic dog
Canis latrans
Coyote
Geomyidae Pocket Gophers
Thomomys bottae
Botta's pocket gopher (sign)
Leporidae Rabbits
** Lepus californicus
Black-tailed jackrabbit
Sylvilagus audubonii
Audubon's cottontail
Sciuridae Squirrels
Spermophilus beecheyi
California ground squirrel
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Table 3. Details of special status species observations.
Species Number Date
Location
Onsite
GPS Coordinates
(WGS 1984)
Elevation
(feet)
BUOW 1 05.30.18 SE N 33.650610, E -117.188668 1536
CAGN 2 (pair) 05.24.18 NE N 33.655112, E -117.185740 1576 BTJA 1 06.14.18 NW N 33.654478, E -117.193719 1512
HOLA S 05.24.18 Central N 33.650510, E -117.185130 1548 HOLA S 06.14.18 W central N 33.653079, E -117.191911 1520 CHPO 2 05.12.17 NE corner N 33.655304, E -117.187238 ~1600 CAGN* 2 (pair) 03.28.17 NE corner N 33.655604, E -117.184969 1576 CAGN 1 (male) 03.28.17 NE corner N 33.654170, E -117.185007 1656 CAGN 1 (male) 04.01.17 N central N 33.655336, E -117.190141 1621 BTJA** 2 03.28.17 NE corner N 33.654645, E -117.185019 1650 BTJA 2 04.01.17 N central N 33.654137, E -117.187498 1583 GBHE 1 04.01.17 NW corner N 33.655683, E -117.194971 fly over HOLA S 04.01.17 E central N 33.652212, E -117.186278 1560 HOLA S 04.08.17 W central N 33.653324, E -117.194038 1519 HOLA S 04.25.17 N central N 33.653816, E -117.188586 1556 HOLA 20+ 09.17.13 E central N 33.65190, E -117.17614 1561 BTJA 1 ---.---.13 N central N 33.655294, E -117.1908176 1563 BTJA 1 ---.---.13 Central N 33.651907, E -117.188694 1545 BTJA 1 ---.---.13 S central N 33.649095, E -117.188265 1570 BTJA 1 ---.---.13 E offsite N 33.649251, E -117.179982 1513 BTJA 1 04.26.11 S central N 33.64902, E -117.18801 1579 BTJA 1 04.26.11 Central N 33.65179, E -117.18867 1546
BTJA 1 04.26.11 N central N 33.65523, E -117.19081 1557 BTJA 7+ 04.26.11 NW Multiple locations, see Figure 8 ----- CAGN 2 (pair) 04.29.11 NW N 33.65529, E -117.19003 1637 CAGN 1 (male) 04.26.11 NW N 33.65548, E -117.19102 1557 CHL 1 04.26.11 NE N 33.65564, E -117.18898 1723
WTKI 1 04.26.11 Central N 33.653036, E -117.191520 fly over BTJA=black-tailed jackrabbit, BUOW=burrowing owl, CAGN=coastal California gnatcatcher, CHL=coast horned lizard, CHPO=long-spined spineflower, GBHE=great blue heron, HOLA=California horned lark, WTKI=white -tailed kite.
S=several, no exact count. Observations may or may not represent the same individuals observed on a different s urvey date.
*CAGN was also detected in the same approximate areas on 04.08.17, 04.25.17, and 05.06.17. These are likely the same individuals previously detected in the area.
**BTJA was also detected in the same approximate areas on 04.08.17 and 05.06.17; number of individuals was not determined.
Other species observed during previous surveys are Cooper’s hawk (2007), northern harrier (2011, 2013), and Costa’s hummingbird (2011); details of these observations are not available.
Details of observations prior to 2011 are not available.
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APPENDIX B: Site Photographs
1 2
3 Burrowing Owl and Raptor Nest Surveys
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(1) Burrowing owl observed on the site (May 30, 2018)
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(2) Burrowing owl burrow site (June 14, 2018).
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(3) Potential raptor nest in eucalyptus tree (June 14, 2018).
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APPENDIX C: Riverside County Documentation
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Certification
Certification: I hereby certify that the state ments furnished above and in the attached exhibits present the data and information required for this biological evaluation, and that the facts, statements, and information presented are true and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief.
DATE: October 9, 2018 SIGNED:
Leslie Irish, Principal, L&L Environmental, Inc.
909-335-9897
1) Fieldwork Performed By: 2) Fieldwork Performed By:
Guy Bruyea
Name Name
3) Fieldwork Performed By: 4) Fieldwork Performed By:
Name Name
5) Fieldwork Performed By: 6) Fieldwork Performed By:
Name Name
Check here if adding any additional names / signatures below or on other side of page.
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BIOLOGICAL REPORT SUMMARY SHEET
Applicant Name: Richland Communities
Assessor’s Parcel Number(s): 360-300-002, -003, -004, -005, -006, -009, 360-350-001 Section, Township and Range: Sections 15 and 16, Township 6 South, Range 3 West Building and Safety Log Number: ____________________________________________ Case Number: TR 31194 Lot/Parcel _________ EA Number _________
MARK ITEM(S)
SURVEYED FOR
SPECIES or ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUE of
CONCERN
(Mark Yes, No, or N/A
regarding species findings on
the referenced site)
Yes No n/a
Arroyo Southwestern Toad Yes No n/a
X Blue-line Stream(s) (previous survey) Yes No n/a
X Burrowing Owl Yes No n/a
Coachella Valley Fringed-toed Lizard Yes No n/a
X Coastal California Gnatcatcher Yes No n/a
X Coastal Sage Scrub (previous survey) Yes No n/a
Delhi Sands Flower-loving Fly Yes No n/a
Desert Pupfish Yes No n/a
Desert Slender Salamander Yes No n/a
Desert Tortoise Yes No n/a
Flat-tailed Horned Lizard Yes No n/a
Least Bell’s Vireo Yes No n/a
X Oak Woodlands (previous survey) Yes No n/a
X Quino Checkerspot Butterfly (previous survey) Yes No n/a Riverside Fairy Shrimp Yes No n/a
Santa Ana River Woolystar Yes No n/a
San Bernardino Kangaroo Rat Yes No n/a
Slender-horned Spineflower Yes No n/a
Stephens’ Kangaroo Rat Yes No n/a
X Vernal Pools (previous survey) Yes No n/a
X Wetlands (previous survey) Yes No n/a
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MARK ITEM(S)
SURVEYED FOR
SPECIES or ENVIRONMENTAL
ISSUE of CONCERN
(Mark Yes, No, or N/A regarding
species findings on the referenced
site)
X Cooper’s Hawk (previous surveys) Yes No n/a
X California Horned Lark Yes No n/a
X Black-tailed Jackrabbit Yes No n/a
X White-tailed Kite (previous surveys) Yes No n/a
X Coast Horned Lizard (previous surveys) Yes No n/a
X Long-spined spineflower (previous survey) Yes No n/a
X Great blue heron (previous survey) Yes No n/a
X Northern harrier (previous survey) Yes No n/a
X Costa’s hummingbird (previous survey) Yes No n/a
Other Yes No n/a
Species of concern shall be any unique, rare, endangered, or thr eatened species. It shall include species used to delineate wetlands and riparian corridors. It shall also include any hosts, perching, or food plants used by any animals listed as rare, endangered, threatened, or candidate species by either state, or fe deral regulations, or for Riverside County as listed by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife Natural Diversity Data Base (CNDDB).
I declare under penalty of perjury that the information provided on this summary sheet is in accordance with the information provided in the biological report or habitat assessment.
L & L Environmental, Inc. October 9, 2018
Signature and Company Name Date
___________________________________________
10(a) Permit Number (if applicable) Permit Expiration Date
County Use Only
Received By: _________________________________________ Date: ____________________ PD-B# ______________________________________________
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Attachment E-4
LEVEL OF SIGNIFICANCE CHECKLIST
For Biological Resources
(Submit two copies to the County)
Case Number: TR 31194 Lot/Parcel No. _____________ EA Number _________ Assessor's Parcel Number(s): 360-300-002, -003, -004, -005, -006, -009, 360-350-001 Date: October 9, 2018
Biological Resources: (Check the level of impact that applies to the following questions.)
Potentially Less than Significant Less than No
Significant Impact with Mitigation Significant Impact
Impact Incorporated Impact
a) Conflict with the provisions of an adopted Habitat Conservation Plan, Natural Conservation Community Plan, or other approved local, regional, or state conservation plan?
b) Have a substantial adverse effect, either directly or through habitat modifications, on any endangered, or threatened species, as listed in Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations (Sections 670.2 or 670.5) or in Title 50, Code of Federal Regulations (Sections 17.11 or 17.12)?
c) Have a substantial adverse effect, either directly or through habitat modifications, on any species identified as a candidate, sensitive, or special status species in local or regional plans, policies, or regulations, or by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, or U. S. Wildlife Service?
d) Interfere substantially with the movement of any native resident or migratory fish or wildlife species, or with established native resident migratory wildlife corridors, or impede the use of native wildlife nursery sites?
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LEVEL OF SIGNIFICANCE CHECKLIST
For Biological Resources
(Submit two copies to the County)
e) Have a substantial adverse effect on any riparian habitat, or other sensitive natural community identified in local or regional plans, policies, regulations, or by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, or the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service?
f) Have a substantial adverse effect on federally protected wetlands, as defined by Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (including, but not limited to, marsh, vernal pools, coastal, etc.) through direct removal, filling, hydrological interruption)
g) Conflict with any local policies or ordinances protecting biological resources, such as a tree preservation policy or ordinance?
Findings of Fact:
A mapped blue-line stream is present onsite and is associated with riparian/riverine vegetation.
One (1) special s tatus plant species and nine (9) special status wildlife species have been identified onsite during past and present surveys (long-spined spineflower, coastal California gnatcatcher, Cooper’s hawk, white-tailed kite, California horned lark, great blue hero n, northern harrier, Costa’s hummingbird, black-tailed jackrabbit, and coast horned lizard).
Potential nesting habitat for burrowing owl and other bird species is present onsite. One (1) burrowing owl was identified onsite along with one (1) active burrow. One (1) inactive potential raptor nest is present onsite. There is no evidence of nesting by white-tailed kite.
Proposed Mitigation:
Avoidance and/or onsite or offsite restoration of riparian habitat is recommended.
Preconstruction surveys for burr owing owl and other nesting bird species are recommended prior to disturbance of the site.
A winter focused survey for burrowing owl is recommended as well as preparation of a Burrowing Owl Exclusion Plan if the owl is a resident.
Monitoring Recommended:
None.
Source: CGP Fig. VI.36-VI.40
Revised October 1999
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APPENDIX D: CNDDB Forms
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\\DARWIN\Shared Folders\Unified Projects\RLCC-03-187 Menifee Assemblage - Golden Meadows\2019 BO9\Report\RLCC-03-R187.BO9 (final).doc
Celebrating 20+ Years of Service to Southern CA and the Great Basin, WBE Certified (Caltrans, CPUC, WBENC) Mailing Address: 700 East Redlands Blvd, Suite U, PMB#351, Redlands CA 92373 Delivery Address: 721 Nevada Street, Suite 307, Redlands, CA 92373 Webpage: llenviroinc.com | Phone: 909-335-9897 | FAX: 909-335-9893
FOCUSED BURROWING OWL SURVEY FOR TRACT 31194,
GOLDEN MEADOWS, CITY OF MENIFEE, CALIFORNIA
±207 Acre Property, ±207 Acres Surveyed
APNs 360-300-002, -003, -004, -005, -006, -009, 360-350-001, and portions of offsite 360-180-009, 360-300-001, -008, 360-350-019, -022, -023, -024, 360-360-009, -010, -011, and 360-380-004, Tract 31194, Menifee Area, Sections 15 and 16, Township 6 South, Range 3 West, USGS Romoland, 7.5’ Topographic Quadrangle
Prepared For:
Brian Hardy
Richland Communities
3161 Michelson Drive, Suite 425
Irvine, CA 92612
949-698-2191
Prepared By:
Leslie Irish, Principal
Guy Bruyea, Field Biologist
Carla Wakeman, Senior Biologist
Jeffrey Sonnentag, Technical Editor
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
Report Summary:
No burrowing owls, owl sign, or active burrows were observed onsite in 2019. One (1) burrowing owl and one (1) potentially occupied burrow were observed in 2018. Tall, dense growth of non-native vegetation was present across the site in 2019, covering the burrow site and creating unsuitable conditions for burrowing owl. If future farming activities remove this vegetation, potentially suitable habitat may be present on the site again. A preconstruction burrowing owl survey is recommended. Habitat suitable for nesting birds (including raptors) is present within and around the site and a preconstruction nesting bird survey is recommended. Previous surveys identified one (1) listed species (coastal California gnatcatcher) and several special status species onsite, including white-tailed kite, northern harrier, coast horned lizard, coastal (western) whiptail, orange-throated whiptail, San Diego black-tailed jackrabbit, Cooper’s hawk, California horned lark, great blue heron, Costa’s hummingbird, and long-spined spineflower. There is no evidence of white-tailed kite nesting on the project site. Jurisdictional riparian/riverine areas were previously identified on the project site. Regulatory permits will be required for impacts to jurisdictional areas. No vernal pools or areas of potential habitat for fairy shrimp were observed or are present onsite.
Surveys Conducted By: Guy Bruyea
Surveys Conducted: April through June 2019
Report Date: July 2019
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
MANAGEMENT SUMMARY ......................................................................................................iv
1.0) INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................ ................ 1
1.1) Location................................................................................................ ........................... 1 Figure 1. Vicinity Map................................................................................................ .......... 2 Figure 2. Project Location ................................................................................................ ... 3 Figure 3. Aerial Photograph ................................................................................................ 4
1.2) Vegetation and Setting ................................................................................................ .... 5
1.3) Soils and Topography ...................................................................................................... 5 Figure 4. Soils Map ................................................................................................ ............. 7
2.0) REGULATORY ENVIRONMENT ................................................................ ........................ 8
2.1) Federal ................................................................................................ ............................ 8
2.1.1) Federal Endangered Species Act ................................................................ .............. 8
2.1.2) Migratory Bird Treaty Act ................................................................ .......................... 8
2.2) State ................................................................................................................................ 9
2.2.1) California Endangered Species Act ................................................................ ........... 9
2.2.2) California Natural Diversity Database ........................................................................ 9
2.2.3) California Rare Plant Ranks ................................................................ ...................... 9
2.2.4) California Environmental Quality Act ........................................................................ 10
2.2.5) California Fish and Game Code, Sections 3503 and 3513 ....................................... 10
2.3) Local .............................................................................................................................. 11
2.3.1) Western Riverside County Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan ...................11
3.0) METHODS AND PERSONNEL ......................................................................................... 14
3.1) Literature Review ........................................................................................................... 14
3.2) Survey Methods ............................................................................................................. 14 Table 1. Survey Information ............................................................................................... 15
3.3) Species Information ........................................................................................................ 15
3.3.1) Burrowing Owl ......................................................................................................... 15
4.0) RESULTS .......................................................................................................................... 17
4.1) Literature Review Results ............................................................................................... 17 Figure 5. MSHCP Cores and Linkages .............................................................................. 18
4.2) Vegetation Communities ................................................................................................ 19
4.3) Plant Species ................................................................................................................. 20
4.4) Wildlife Species .............................................................................................................. 21
4.4.1) Burrowing Owl ......................................................................................................... 22
4.5) Jurisdictional Areas (MSHCP Riparian/Riverine and Vernal Pool Habitat) ......................22 Figure 6. Vegetation Community Map ................................................................................ 24 Figure 7. Special Status Species – 2011 ............................................................................ 25 Figure 8. Special Status Species – 2013 ............................................................................ 26 Figure 9. Special Status Species – 2017 ............................................................................ 27 Figure 10. Special Status Species – 2018 .......................................................................... 28 Figure 11. Special Status Species – 2019 .......................................................................... 29 Figure 12. Jurisdictional Areas (2019) ................................................................................ 30
5.0) IMPACTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS ............................................................................ 31 Burrowing Owl Surveys
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6.0) REFERENCES .................................................................................................................. 33 APPENDIX A: Plant and Wildlife Species .............................................................................. 36 Table 2. Plant and Wildlife Species ....................................................................................... 36 Table 3. Special Status Species Observations ...................................................................... 45 APPENDIX B: Site Photographs............................................................................................. 46 APPENDIX C: Riverside County Documentation ..................................................................51 Certification ........................................................................................................................... 52 Biological Report Summary Sheet ......................................................................................... 53 Level of Significance Checklist .............................................................................................. 55 APPENDIX D: CNDDB Forms 2019 ........................................................................................ 57
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MANAGEMENT SUMMARY
L&L Environmental, Inc. (L&L) conducted breeding season burrowing owl surveys on Richland Communities’ ±207-acre project (and associated offsite improvement areas) in the City of Menifee, California. The purpose of this work effort was to re-examine the subject property to determine presence/absence of burrowing owl.
L&L has performed studies on this property for over a decade (beginning in 2003) under a number of contractors and proponents. This study reflects the most current field conditions and, where pertinent, makes comparative statements as to past and historic conditions.
Land use varies within and adjacent to the survey area and includes anthropogenic disturbances such as rural residential areas, active and fallow agricultural areas, unimproved roads, powerline easements, off-road vehicle activity, debris piles, and windblown debris. Two (2) roads are present on the property. One (1) is located along the northern and eastern portion of the property where agricultural areas meet less disturbed sage scrub areas. This unimproved road begins at the eastern terminus of Daniel Road and exits at the southeastern corner of the site near the intersection of Evans Road and Ascot Way. Krubsack Road (unimproved) trends north to south through agricultural fields within the roughly west-central portion of the property and connects with Wickerd Road to the south and Daniel Road to the north.
The site consists of agricultural fields and a mix of disturbed to relatively undisturbed buckwheat scrub and chamise chaparral vegetation communities. The agricultural fields are dry farmed for wheat. The site has also been used for sheep grazing in the past, but no grazing was observed during the current survey.
A shallow drainage and mapped blue-line stream is present onsite (trending from south to north within the central portion of the site), as well as various other jurisdictional features. No vernal pools or areas of potential habitat for fairy shrimp were observed or are present onsite.
Based upon presence of relatively flat open areas with low-growing vegetation on large portions of the site, close proximity to a fresh water source, and recent records of burrowing owl in the vicinity, habitat suitable for use by burrowing owl was determined to be present on much of the subject property. There were no burrowing owl observations during biological surveys of the site in 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, and 2011. L&L conducted focused late-season surveys on the site and surrounding buffer areas in August 2013 with negative results. However, one (1) location was noted that may have been used in the recent past, based upon presence of a Burrowing Owl Surveys
Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California July 2019 RLCC-03-R187.BO9 (final) v L&L
single feather found at an entrance to a hole beneath a grouping of medium-sized rocks. There was a rock immediately adjacent to the entrance that was evidently used for avian perching (species undetermined) based on the presence of droppings, but no other sign, including additional feathers, scat, prey bones, tracks, or other indicators were found at the location.
Focused surveys for burrowing owl were not conducted in 2017, but general surveys included searches for burrowing owl and active burrows. No burrowing owl, occupied burrows, or burrowing owl sign were observed. Surveys in 2018 observed one (1) burrowing owl and one (1) active burrow and potential nesting site. The owl was observed during the survey on May 30, but was not observed during subsequent surveys. No burrowing owl, owl sign, or active burrows were observed in 2019. Tall, dense growth of non-native vegetation was present in the agricultural fields in 2019, covering the burrow site and creating unsuitable conditions for burrowing owl. If future farming activities remove this vegetation, potentially suitable habitat may be present on the site again. A preconstruction clearance survey for burrowing owl (valid for 30 days) will be required.
A white-tailed kite was observed flying over the site during a survey in 2011 but has not been observed subsequently. The California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB) has documented occurrences of five (5) white-tailed kite nests within 10 miles of the project site (CDFW 2018c ).
There are several large eucalyptus trees on and adjacent to the site that may be suitable for raptor nesting. There is a raptor nest onsite in a large eucalyptus tree and it may have been used by red-tailed hawk in the past, but it was not observed to be active in 2017, 2018, or 2019.
No white-tailed kite nesting has been observed onsite.
Habitat suitable for nesting birds is present within and around the site and a preconstruction survey for nesting birds should be conducted prior to any site disturbance during the nesting season (generally February 1 through August 31). If nesting birds are present, avoidance of nest sites will be required and a buffer of 300 to 500 feet is recommended until juvenile birds have fledged and/or an authorized biologist has verified that the nest is no longer active.
Previous surveys identified one (1) federally listed species (coastal California gnatcatcher) and several special status species onsite, including white-tailed kite, northern harrier, coast horned lizard, San Diego black-tailed jackrabbit, Cooper’s hawk, California horned lark, great blue heron, Costa’s hummingbird, and l ong-spined spineflower. Coastal California gnatcatcher and California horned lark were detected on the site in 2019.
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1.0) INTRODUCTION
The following report was prepared by L&L Environmental, Inc. (L&L) for Richland Communities.
It describes the results of biological surveys conducted on a proposed development located on lands within the City of Menifee. The project site consists of APNs 360- 300-002, -003, -004, -005, -006, -009, and 360- 350-001 (totaling ±207 acres) and portions of offsite APNs 360-180-009, 360-300-001, -008, 360-350-019, -022, -023, -024, 360-360-009, -010, -011, and 360-380-004 where improvements are planned.
Our assessment consisted of (1) a records search and literature review, conducted to determine the species of concern in the project area and proximity to closest documented special status species observations, and (2) field reconnaissance to identify presence/absence of habitat and species of concern (particularly burrowing owl).
1.1) Location
The site is located in the Paloma Valley west of Interstate Highway 215 (I-215), south of Newport Road, and east of Murrieta Road (Figure 1). The site is located between Wickerd Road to the south and Garbani Road to the north. The project site is situated in Sections 15 and 16, Township 6 South, Range 3 West, within the USGS Romoland 7.5’ series quadrangle map (Figure 2).
The site is generally bounded as follows: to the west by a mixture of actively cultivated and fallow agricultural areas, Evans Road (unimproved), and rural residential units; to the east by a mixture of disturbed and relatively undisturbed open space, Ascot Way (unimproved), and a Verizon Communications complex beyond; to the north by a mixture of disturbed and relatively undisturbed lands, rural residential areas, Garbani Road (unimproved), and a housing development beyond; and to the south by Wickerd Road (unimproved), rural residential areas, and a mix of disturbed and relatively undisturbed lands beyond (Figure 3).
In addition to surveys conducted on the main site, offsite improvement areas were included in these surveys. These included t wo (2) separate areas: 1) a 0.5 mile section of Wickerd Road between the southeast corner of the main site east to Haun Road and 2) an area south of the south-central portion of the main site boundary roughly located between the intersection of Wickerd Road and Bradley Road and west to approximately Krubsack Road.
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Figure 1
Project Vicinity Map
Golden Meadows, TT 31194
City of Menifee, California
L&L Environmental, Inc.
BIOLOGICAL AND CULTURAL
INVESTIGATIONS AND MONITORING
RLCC-03-187
July 2019
Project Vicinity
Burrowing Owl Surveys
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Figure 2
Project Location Map
(USGS Romoland 1979 quadrangle,
Sections 15 & 16, Township 6 South, Range 3 West)
Golden Meadows, TT 31194
City of Menifee, California
L&L Environmental, Inc.
BIOLOGICAL AND CULTURAL
INVESTIGATIONS AND MONITORING
RLCC-03-187
July 2019
Project Area
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Figure 3
Aerial Photograph
(Photo obtained from Google Earth, February 2018)
Golden Meadows, TT 31194
City of Menifee, California
L&L Environmental, Inc.
BIOLOGICAL AND CULTURAL
INVESTIGATIONS AND MONITORING
RLCC-03-187
July 2019
Haun Road
Evans Road Garbani Road
Wickerd Road
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1.2) Vegetation and Setting
Much of the subject property has been disturbed in association with previous dry-land farming and sheep grazing. As a result, these areas do not support native habitat communities. In the historically less disturbed areas of the property, remnants of California buckwheat scrub and chamise chaparral vegetation are present. Two (2) unimproved roads are present onsite.
A shallow drainage feature and mapped blue-line stream is present trending from the southwest/central to the northwest portion of the site. Much of this area has been impacted by agricultural activities and invasive plants, but several woody riparian species are present in association with this feature.
Land uses adjacent to the survey area include rural residential, agricultural, large animal husbandry, unimproved roads, powerline easements, off-road vehicle activity, storage, and debris piles. An unimproved road begins at the eastern terminus of Daniel Road and exits at the southeastern corner of the site near the Evans Road and Ascot Way intersection. Krubsack Road (unimproved) runs north-south through agricultural fields within the roughly west-central portion of the property and connects with Wickerd Road to the south and Daniel Road to the north.
The agricultural fields are dry farmed for wheat. During 2019, the fields were densely vegetated with non-native species including short-pod mustard (Hirschfeldia incana), wild radish (Raphinus sativus), and other non-native annuals. Some native species, such as large flower rancher’s fiddleneck (Amsinckia intermedia), were also present. The site has also been used for sheep grazing in the past, but no grazing was observed during the present survey.
1.3) Soils and Topography
Soils on the project site were mapped by the Natural Resources Conservation Service (2018) as a mixture of several soil types, including Wyman loam (WyC2), Vallecitos loam (VeC2), Porterville clay (PsC), Yokohl loam (YbC and YbE3), Cajalco fine sandy loam (CaC2 and CaD2), Cajalco rocky fine sandy loam (CbF2), Honcut sandy loam (HnC and HnD2), Las Posas loam (LaD2), and Las Posas rocky loam (LkD2 and LkF3) (Figure 4). The most common soils mapped for the subject property are Wyman loam on the central and western portion of the site (in farmed areas) and Las Posas rocky loams on densely vegetated hillsides within the northern and eastern portions of the site. Clay soils are relatively uncommon on the site, but Porterville clay is present near the southeastern portion of the property within the agricultural areas. Soils Burrowing Owl Surveys
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observed onsite range from mostly sandy-loamy within the farmed areas to rocky loamy on the less disturbed vegetated hillsides. Cryptobiotic crusts are present, but only within less disturbed portions of the site away from previously farmed areas.
Topographically, much of the site is primarily flat and contains open lands with low-relief rocky outcrops and shallow depressions. Gently to steeply sloping hills and ridgelines are present within the northeastern portion of the property. The site has a combined maximum vertical relief of roughly 220 feet between highest and lowest points on the property, with elevation ranging from approximately 1,500 to 1,720 feet above mean sea level (AMSL).
Surrounding topographic features in the project vicinity include gently to steeply sloping hills and ridgelines interspersed with lower-lying relatively flat areas. Although most surrounding areas of the Paloma Valley are primarily flat, significant topographic features are present northwest and southwest of the property at elevations of approximately 1,760 to 1,820 feet AMSL. Bell Mountain, a significant topographic feature located approximately two (2) miles east of the subject property, rises to 1,848 feet AMSL.
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CaC2 = Cajalco fine sandy loam, 2-8% slope, eroded
CaD2 = Cajalco fine sandy loam, 8-15% slope, eroded
CbD2 = Cajalco rocky fine sandy loam, 5-15% slope, eroded CbF2 = Cajalco rocky fine sandy loam, 15-50% slope, eroded CkD2 = Cieneba rocky sandy loam, 8-15% slope, eroded HnC = Honcut sandy loam, 2-8% slope
HnD2 = Honcut sandy loam, 8-15% slope, eroded
LaD2 = Las Posas loam, 8-15% slope, eroded
LaC = Las Posas loam, 2-8% slope
LaC2 = Las Posas loam, 5-8% slope, eroded
LkD2 = Las Posas rocky loam, 8-15% slope, eroded
LkF3 = Las Posas rocky loam, 15-50% slope, severely eroded PsC = Porterville clay
VeC2 = Vallecitos loam, eroded
WyC2 = Wyman loam, eroded
YbC = Yokohl loam, 2-8% slope
YbE3 = Yokohl loam, 8-25% slope, severely eroded
Figure 4
Soils Map
(Photo obtained from Google Earth, February 2016,
USDA Nat. Res. Cons. Serv. SSURGO Data)
Golden Meadows, TT 31194
City of Menifee, California
L&L Environmental, Inc.
BIOLOGICAL AND CULTURAL
INVESTIGATIONS AND MONITORING
RLCC-03-187
July 2019
Burrowing Owl Surveys
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2.0) REGULATORY ENVIRONMENT
2.1) Federal
2.1.1) Federal Endangered Species Act
By law, it is a requirement of the federal Endangered Species Act (FESA), 1973 (as amended) at Section 7(a)(2) that federal agencies ensure that any action authorized, funded, or carried out by a federal agency is not likely to jeopardize the continued existence of any endangered species or threatened species, or result in the destruction or adverse modification of critical habitat. In order to comply with this requirement, the federal agency must conduct a Biological Assessment (BA), in which effects to listed species are analyzed and disclosed in the form of an “effects determination.”
Section 7 requires federal agencies to consult with the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) should it be determined that their actions may affect federally listed threatened or endangered species. Section 9 of FESA prohibits “take” (e.g., harm, harassment, pursuit, injury, kill) of federally listed wildlife. “Harm” is further defined to include habitat modification or degradation where it kills or injures wildlife by impairing essential behavioral patterns such including breeding, feeding, or sheltering. Take that is incidental to otherwise lawful activities can be authorized under Section 7 of FESA.
Procedures for obtaining a permit for incidental take are identified under Section 7 of FESA for federal properties or where federal actions are involved and are identified under Section 10 of FESA for non-federal actions. During the Section 7 process, measures to avoid and minimize project effects to listed species and their habitat will be identified and incorporated into a Biological Opinion (prepared by the USFWS) that includes an incidental take by the federal agency and applicant.
The County of Riverside has been issued a Section 10(a) permit for the Western Riverside County Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (MSHCP), discussed below.
2.1.2) Migratory Bird Treaty Act
The federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) of 1918 (16 USC 703-711) is an international treaty that makes it unlawful to take, possess, buy, sell, purchase, or barter any migratory bird listed in 50 CFR Part 10, including feathers or other parts, nests, eggs, or products, except as allowed by implementing regulations (50 CFR 21). Executive Order 13186 ensures that Burrowing Owl Surveys
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environmental analyses of federal actions required by the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) or other established environmental review processes evaluate the effects of actions on migratory birds, with emphasis on species of concern. Disturbance that causes nest abandonment and/or loss of reproductive effort (e.g., killing or abandonment of eggs or young) or loss of habitat upon which the birds depend could be considered “take” and constitute a violation of the MBTA.
2.2) State
2.2.1) California Endangered Species Act
California Endangered Species Act (CESA) definitions of endangered and threatened species parallel those defined in the FESA. The CESA defines an endangered species as “. . . a native species or subspecies of a bird, mammal, fish, amphibian, reptile, or plant which is in serious danger of becoming extinct throughout all, or a significant portion, of its range due to one or more causes including loss of habitat, change in habitat, overexploitation, predation, competition or disease.” Endangered species are in serious danger of becoming extinct and threatened species are likely to become endangered species in the foreseeable future (according to Sections 2062 and 2067, respectively, of the California Fish and Game Code). Candidate species are those under formal review by the CDFW for listing as endangered or threatened (Section 2067). Prior to being considered for protected status, the CDFW designates a species as being of special concern. Species of Special Concern are wildlife species for which the CDFW has information indicating population decline. Plant species of concern are designated by California Rare Plant Ranks.
2.2.2) California Natural Diversity Database
The California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB) includes documented occurrences of special status species that have been reported to the CDFW. It also includes ranks of overall condition of sensitive species and vegetation communities on global (throughout its range) and state (within California) levels. State ranking is numerical, ranging from one to five (S1 to S5), with one indicating very few remaining individuals or little remaining habitat and five indicating a demonstrably secure to ineradicable population condition.
2.2.3) California Rare Plant Ranks
The California Native Plant Society (CNPS) Inventory of Rare and Endangered Species includes documented occurrences of special status plant species that are available through the Burrowing Owl Surveys
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Consortium of California Herbaria and other sources. The CNPS, in coordination with CDFW, has cataloged California's rare and endangered plants into lists according to population distributions and viability. These lists are numbered and indicate the following California Rare Plant Ranks (CRPR): (1A) presumed extinct in California; (1B) rare, threatened, or endangered throughout their range; (2A) presumed extirpated in California, but more common in other states; (2B) threatened or endangered in California, but more common in other states; (3) more information is needed to establish rarity; and (4) plants of limited distribution in California (i.e., naturally rare in the wild), but whose populations do not appear to be susceptible to threat. A CRPR may also have an extension (e.g., 1B.x) that indicates current level of threat: seriously threatened (x.1), moderately threatened (x.2), or not very threatened (x.3).
2.2.4) California Environmental Quality Act
The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and CEQA Guidelines (§ 15000 et seq.) require identification of environmental effects from discretionary projects. Significant effects are to be mitigated by avoidance, minimization, rectification, or compensation whenever possible.
Effects to all state and federal listed species are considered significant under CEQA. In addition to formally listed species, CEQA considers effects to species that are demonstrably endangered or rare as important or significant. These definitions can include state designated species of special concern, federal candidate and proposed species, CNDDB tracked species, and CRPR list 1B and list 2 plants.
Appendix G of the CEQA Guidelines specifically addresses biological resources and encompasses a broad range of resources to be considered.
2.2.5) California Fish and Game Code, Sections 3503 and 3513 California Fish and Game Code Section 3503 prohibits take, possession, or needless destruction of bird nests or eggs except as otherwise provided by the Code; Section 3503.5 prohibits take or possession of birds of prey or their eggs except as otherwise provided by the Code; and Section 3513 provides for the adoption of the provisions of the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act.
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2.3) Local
2.3.1) Western Riverside County Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan The County of Riverside, including eight (8) additional land jurisdictions and 14 cities, have prepared a Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (MSHCP) for western Riverside County.
The MSHCP will build upon existing preserves and provide connectivity and wildlife corridors throughout the region. The MSHCP proposes to conserve approximately 500,000 acres and 146 different species. Approximately 347,000 acres are anticipated to be conserved on existing Public/Quasi-Public lands with additional contributions of approximately 153,000 acres from willing sellers (http://www.rcip.org).
The MSHCP was approved by the county on June 17, 2003 and an Implementation Agreement (IA) between the USFWS, the CDFW, and the County was executed and an associated USFWS Section 10(a)(1)(B) Permit (No. TE-088609) was issued on June 22, 2004. The permit grants take authorization for certain species identified in the permit as "Covered Species Adequately Conserved."
The MSHCP establishes seven (7) core reserve areas and associated linkages between proposed and existing core areas. The MSHCP divides areas into Cells using USGS coordinates. According to the Riverside County Integrated Project website, parcels that compose the current project site are located within Sun City/Menifee Valley Area Plan.
Conservation efforts for the project site will be evaluated with regard to sensitive species identified as not adequately conserved and observed onsite, riverine/riparian or vernal pool habitat and their associated sensitive species (if located onsite), fairy shrimp, jurisdictional areas, and sage scrub.
Focused surveys are required for species identified as not adequately conserved under the MSHCP if suitable habitat is present onsite. If focused surveys are determined necessary and species identified as not adequately conserved under the MSHCP occur onsite, the proponent may be required to undergo a Habitat Acquisition and Negotiation Strategy (HANS) determination with the County of Riverside. If a single family home or mobile home is to be placed on an existing legal lot, permitting will be reviewed according to the procedures outlined in MSHCP Section 6.1.1, Expedited Review Process for Single-Family Homes or Mobile Homes To Be Located on an Existing Lot Within the Criteria Area.
Section B (Species Accounts) of Volume 2 of the MSHCP (Dudek 2003) lists the following objectives for burrowing owl conservation/protection:
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Objective 1
Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area at least 27,470 acres of suitable primary habitat for the burrowing owl including grasslands.
Objective 2
Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area at least 5 Core Areas and interconnecting linkages. Core areas may include the following: (1) Lake Skinner/Diamond Valley Lake area (Existing Core C plus Proposed Extension of Existing Cores 5, 6, 7; 29,060 acres); (2) playa west of Hemet (Proposed Noncontiguous Habitat Block 7; 1,250 acres); (3) San Jacinto Wildlife Area/Mystic Lake area including Lake Perris area (Existing Core H; 17,470 acres); (4) Lake Mathews (Existing Core C plus Proposed Extension of Existing Cores 2; 23,710 acres); and (5) along the Santa Ana River (9,670 acres). The Core Areas should support a combined total breeding population of approximately 120 burrowing owls with no fewer than five pairs in any one Core area.
Objective 3
Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area at least 22,120 acres of suitable secondary habitat for the burrowing owl including playas and vernal pools, and agriculture outside of the Core Areas identified above. Areas where additional suitable habitat could be conserved include west of the Jurupa Mountains, near Temescal Wash (i.e., vicinity of Alberhill), near Temecula Creek, within the Lakeview Mountains, Banning, the Badlands, Gavilan Hills, and Quail Valley.
Objective 4
Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area the known nesting locations of the burrowing owl at Lake Perris, Mystic Lake/San Jacinto Wildlife area, Lake Skinner area, the area around Diamond Valley Lake, playa west of Hemet, Lakeview Mountains, Lake Mathews/Estelle Mountain Reserve and Sycamore Canyon Regional Park.
Objective 5
Surveys for burrowing owl will be conducted as part of the project review process for public and private projects within the burrowing owl survey area where suitable habitat is present (see Burrowing Owl Survey Area Map, Figure 6-4 of the MSHCP, Volume I). The locations of this species determined as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section 6.3.2, MSHCP, Volume I and the guidance provided below:
Burrowing owl surveys shall be conducted utilizing accepted protocols as follows.
If burrowing owls are detected on the project site then the action(s) taken will be as follows:
If the site is within the Criteria Area, then at least 90 percent of the area with long-term conservation value will be included in the MSHCP Conservation Area. Otherwise:
1) If the site contains, or is part of an area supporting less than 35 acres of suitable habitat or the survey reveals that the site and the Burrowing Owl Surveys
Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California July 2019 RLCC-03-R187.BO9 (final) L&L 13
surrounding area supports fewer than 3 pairs of burrowing owls, then the on-site burrowing owls will be passively or actively relocated following accepted protocols.
2) If the site (including adjacent areas) supports three or more pairs of burrowing owls, supports greater than 35 acres of suitable habitat and is non-contiguous with MSHCP Conservation Area lands, at least 90 percent of the area with long-term conservation value and burrowing owl pairs will be conserved onsite.
The survey and conservation requirements stated in this objective will be eliminated when it is demonstrated that Objectives 1 – 4 have been met.
Objective 6
Pre-construction presence/absence surveys for burrowing owl within the survey area where suitable habitat is present will be conducted for all Covered Activities through the life of the permit. Surveys will be conducted within 30 days prior to disturbance. Take of active nests will be avoided. Passive relocation (use of one-way doors and collapse of burrows) will occur when owls are present outside the nesting season.
Objective 7
Translocation sites for the burrowing owl will be created in the MSHCP Conservation Area for the establishment of new colonies. Translocation sites will be identified, taking into consideration unoccupied habitat areas, presence of burrowing mammals to provide suitable burrow sites, existing colonies and effects to other Covered Species. Reserve Managers will consult with the Wildlife Agencies regarding site selection prior to translocation site development.
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3.0) METHODS AND PERSONNEL
3.1) Literature Review
Pertinent literature was reviewed to identify local occurrences and habitat requirements of special status species and communities occurring in the region. Literature reviewed included compendia provided by resource agencies (CDFW 2019a, 2019b; USFWS 2019), the Western Riverside County MSHCP (Dudek 2003), California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB; CDFW 2019c) reports for the vicinity, and reports of previous surveys completed for the site (L&L 2003- 2018).
Latin names of plants follow The Jepson Manual (Hickman 1993) with updates from the online Jepson eFlora (Jepson 2019). Latin names of animals follow A Field Guide to Western Reptiles and Amphibians (Stebbins 1985), California Mammals (Jameson and Peeters 1988), Checklist of North American Birds (American Ornithologists’ Union 1983, 1989) and The Sibley Guide t o Birds (Sibley 2000), and American Insects: A Handbook of the Insects of America North of Mexico (Arnett 2000). Vegetation community classifications follow Sawyer et al. (2009).
Current conservation status of plant and wildlife species determined from CDFW (2019a , 2019b). Other sources consulted for information regarding biological resources include Brown (1994), Recon (1985), Schoenherr (1990), and Small (1994).
3.2) Survey Methods
A habitat assessment , burrow survey, and focused burrowing owl surveys were conducted on five (5 ) site visits in April, May, and June 2019 (Table 1). The surveys were conducted in accordance with the Burrowing Owl Survey Instructions for the MSHCP.
MSHCP Burrowing Owl Survey Instructions require surveys to be conducted during the breeding season from March 1 to August 31. Surveys should be conducted during weather conditions that are conducive to detecting owls and owl sign. Surveys are not acceptable if they are conducted during rain, high winds (> 20 mph), dense fog, or temperatures over 90° F.
Surveys should be conducted in the morning one (1) hour before sunrise to two (2) hours after sunrise or in the early evening two (2) hours before sunset to one (1) hour after sunset.
Surveys were generally conducted in the early morning hours.
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Surveys were conducted by L&L field biologist Guy Bruyea, who has extensive experience with surveys for burrowing owl and nesting birds. Weather conditions during the surveys are summarized in Table 1.
Table 1. Survey Information.
Date Time Sunrise* Sunset* Weather Wind (mph)
04.16.2019 1630-1900 -- 1925 Cloudy, 66-63º F 2-4
05.15.2019 1700-1930 -- 1947 Cloudy, 74-69º F 1-4
05.28.2019 1630-1930 -- 1956 Sunny/Clear, 72-68º F 1-5
06.21.2019 0700-0830 0542 -- Marine layer/Clear, 61-67º F 0-1
06.23.2019 1815-1930 -- 2007 Clear, 77-71º F 0-1
*sunrise/sunset times from timeanddate.com
A total of about 10.75 person-hours were spent onsite. The site was examined for suitable burrow sites and for signs of occupation by burrowing owl, including pellets, feathers, whitewash, prey remains, and eggshell fragments, as well as individual owls. Particular attention was paid to the location of the potentially occupied burrow observed in 2018.
A search for potentially suitable burrows within dirt, wood, and rock debris piles, artificially created berms, and other locations was conducted during the surveys. The surveys were concentrated in areas typically associated with burrowing owl habitat, including open areas onsite and areas where California ground squirrel activity (i.e., suitable burrows) was expected.
An additional 150-meter (500-foot) buffer area surrounding the site was visually inspected, where possible, in areas identified as potential burrowing owl habitat. Any developed areas were visually surveyed with binoculars due to trespassing concerns on private property.
Transects were walked throughout the property where suitable habitat is present. Coupled with binocular surveys of any restricted areas, this allowed for complete visual ground coverage of the survey area. Distance between transects was approximately 15 to 20 meters.
3.3) Species Information
3.3.1) Burrowing Owl
Burrowing owl (Athene cunicularia) is protected under the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act and California Fish and Game Code and is a CDFW Species of Special Concern. Under the MSHCP, surveys are required in certain areas and mitigation is required as described in Section
2.3, above.
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Burrowing owl is a small, ground-dwelling owl found in open dry grassland, desert, or shrubland areas and in uncultivated agricultural areas, rangelands, and other open areas with low-growing vegetation. It ranges throughout the western U. S., Canada, and Mexico. It is a small (approximately 9 to 11 inches in height) pale brown owl with white-colored “eyebrows” and throat, yellow eyes, a short stubby tail, and long legs. Males are generally larger and more lightly colored than females. Burrowing owl is the most diurnal of owl species but is considered mostly crepuscular (active around sunrise and sunset). Arthropods (mainly beetles and grasshoppers) make up a large portion of their diet, especially during the breeding season.
Burrowing owls are opportunistic feeders and will readily eat small mammals (primarily mice, gophers, and ground squirrels), lizards, amphibians, and small birds.
Burrows are an essential element of burrowing owl habitat. Although burrowing owls can excavate their own burrows in soft soils, they typically inhabit abandoned burrows of smal l burrowing mammals, such as ground squirrels and pocket gophers. Burrowing owl has also been known to use man-made structures such as cement culverts, debris piles, and other artificial burrows. Occupancy of burrowing owl habitat can be verified at a site by observation of at least one (1) owl or its molted feathers, cast pellets, prey remains, eggshell fragments, or excrement at or near a burrow entrance (CBOC 1993).
A site is considered occupied if at least one (1) owl has been identified onsite in the past three (3) years, because (if undisturbed) burrowing owls “exhibit high site fidelity, reusing burrows year after year” (Rich 1984, Feeny 1992). The range of this species is throughout the western United States and Mexico, but it is increasingly uncommon in southern California.
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4.0) RESULTS
4.1) Literature Review Results
The project site is within the area covered by the Western Riverside County MSHCP. The MSHCP Conservation Summary Report identified the site as requiring an assessment of potential habitat and presence/absence of burrowing owl. This and previous reports fulfill the MSHCP requirement of habitat assessment and presence/absence surveys for burrowing owl.
Figure 5 shows the project site in relation to MSHCP core areas and linkages.
The 2006 Final Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for the project (T&B 2006) includes a mitigation measure (4.3-2) requiring a pre-construction survey for burrowing owl within 30 days prior to grading. If burrowing owl is present, mitigation is required per the MSHCP:
If the site contains or is part of an area supporting less than 35 acres of suitable habitat or the survey reveals that the site and surrounding area supports less than 3 pairs of burrowing owls, then the on-site burrowing owls shall be passively or actively relocated following accepted protocols.
If the site (including adjacent areas) supports 3 or more pairs of burrowing owls, supports greater than 35 acres of suitable habitat and is non-contiguous with MSHCP Conservation Area lands, at least 90 percent of the area with long-term conservation value and burrowing owl pairs shall be conserved on-site.
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Figure 5
MSHCP Cores and Linkages
(Riverside County MSHCP)
Golden Meadows, TT 31194
City of Menifee, California
L&L Environmental, Inc.
BIOLOGICAL AND CULTURAL
INVESTIGATIONS AND MONITORING
RLCC-03-187
July 2019
Project Area
Burrowing Owl Surveys
Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California July 2019 RLCC-03-R187.BO9 (final) L&L 19
4.2) Vegetation Communities
Much of the subject property has been disturbed by recent and historic cultivation and sheep grazing and does not support native habitat. The agricultural fields are dry farmed for wheat.
During 2019, the fields were densely vegetated with non-native species including short-pod mustard, wild radish, and other non-native annuals. Some native species, such as large flower rancher’s fiddleneck, were also present.
Less disturbed areas are also present, primarily in the northeastern portions of the site, with a mixture of disturbed and relatively undisturbed California buckwheat scrub and chamise chaparral. Sparse riparian vegetation and trees are found along the blue-line stream in the northwestern/central portion of the site (Figure 6).
Evidence of widespread sheep grazing was observed throughout all areas of the site in 2013.
Hillsides containing California buckwheat scrub along the farmland edges, especially to the north and east, had been severely damaged by sheep grazing. Very few annuals remain ed (none in some areas) and many of the perennials have been stripped of vegetation and/or trampled. No evidence of recent sheep grazing was observed during surveys in 2017 , 2018, and 2019 and regrowth of native annuals and perennials was observed in the buckwheat scrub areas.
Relatively undisturbed California buckwheat scrub (Eriogonum fasciculatum Shrubland Alliance) is present on the eastern and northern (primarily northeastern) portion of the site on south, west, and east-facing slopes containing numerous rocky outcrops. Native shrubs and other conspicuous plants commonly observed in these areas include California buckwheat (Eriogonum fasciculatum ), California sagebrush ( Artemisia californica ), white sage ( Salvia apiana), brittlebush ( Encelia farinosa ), yellow bush penstemon ( Keckiella antirrhinoides ), wishbone bush ( Mirabilis laevis var. crassifolia), sweetbush ( Bebbia juncea), blue elderberry (Sambucus nigra ssp. cerulea), and black sage ( Salvia mellifera). Approximately 44.2 acres of California buckwheat scrub is present onsite and an additional ±0.6 acre is located within offsite improvement areas. Open patches can be found throughout portions of the buckwheat scrub onsite containing a mixture of native and non-native annuals. This vegetation community is ranked by CDFW (2018d) as S5 (secure – common, widespread, and abundant) and it is not considered sensitive.
Chamise chaparral ( Adenostema fasciculatum Shrubland Alliance) or chamise–black sage chaparral ( Adenostema fasciculatum –Salvia mellifera Shrubland Alliance) is found mainly in Burrowing Owl Surveys
Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California July 2019 RLCC-03-R187.BO9 (final) L&L 20
small patches of remnant habitat, excluding the east-central property boundary where some relatively dense stands remain and mix with California buckwheat scrub. Common species found in the chaparral areas onsite are chamise ( Adenostoma fasciculatum), black sage, and other perennials. Approximately ±2.1 acres of chaparral are present onsite, with an additional ±0.6 acre located within offsite improvement areas. CDFW ranks these chaparral communities as S5 and they are not considered sensitive.
Arroyo willow thickets ( Salix lasiolepis Shrubland Alliance) and mulefat thickets ( Baccharis salicifolia Shrubland Alliance) are present along a degraded blue-line stream in the northwestern/central portions of the site. This area is sparsely inhabited by arroyo willow ( Salix lasiolepis), mulefat (Baccharis salicifolia), or a combination of these species. A single Fremont cottonwood tree (Populus fremontii ssp. fremontii) and scattered non-native tamarisks ( Tamarix species) were also observed. The understory is dominated by mostly weedy annuals.
Approximately 2.3 acres of this habitat is present onsite. CDFW ranks both of these communities as S4 (apparently secure – uncommon but not rare, some cause for long-term concern due to declines or other factors) and they are not considered sensitive.
Approximately 75 percent of the site is composed of agricultural areas under cultivation for wheat. During 2019 surveys, there was no crop evident and the fields were thickly vegetated with mainly non-native plants such as short-pod mustard and wild radish. Disturbed habitat on the site includes unvegetated areas (such as roads) and areas that contain mostly non-native plant species, including ornamentals and ruderal invasive s pecies. There are ±158.5 acres of
disturbed and/or agricultural land onsite, with an additional ±2.5 acres within offsite improvement areas.
4.3) Plant Species
Under the MSHCP, no surveys or assessments were required for Narrow Endemic, Criteria Area, or additional needs botanical species on the project site. The site does not support habitat, soils, and/or vegetation associated with naturally occurring vernal pools and would therefore not support associated special status plant species, nor were these species observed.
One (1) special status plant species was observed onsite in 2017, long-spined spineflower (Chorizanthe polygonoides var. longispina; CRPR 1B.2). Two (2) plants were observed on clay soils in the northeast portion of the site along an east-west ridgeline. Under the MSHCP, this species is considered to be adequately conserved.
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A list of all plant species identified onsite during past and present surveys is included in Appendix A.
4.4) Wildlife Species
A combined total of 59 wildlife species have been detected during all biological surveys of the site by L&L. A list of all wildlife species identified onsite is provided in Appendix A.
Biological surveys conducted on the project site by L&L from 2003 to 2018 (L&L 2003a, 2003b, 2004a, 2004b, 2004c, 2005, 2006a, 2006b, 2007, 2011, 2013, 2017, 2018b) detected the following special status species (Figures 7 through 10):
coastal California gnatcatcher ( Polioptila californica californica ; federal threatened, CDFW Species of Special Concern, MSHCP Adequately Conserved), white-tailed kite ( Elanus leucurus ; California Fully Protected, MSHCP Adequately Conserved),
coast horned lizard ( Phrynosoma blainvillii; CDFW Species of Special Concern, MSHCP Adequately Conserved),
coastal (western) whiptail ( Aspidoscelis tigris stejnegeri; CDFW Species of Special Concern, MSHCP Adequately Conserved),
northern harrier ( Circus cyaneus ; CDFW Species of Special Concern, MSHCP Adequately Conserved),
San Diego black-tailed jackrabbit ( Lepus californicus bennetti; CDFW Species of Special Concern, MSHCP Adequately Conserved),
orange-throated whiptail ( Aspidoscelis hyperythra ; CDFW Watch List, MSHCP Adequately Conserved),
Cooper’s hawk ( Accipiter cooperi; CDFW Watch List, MSHCP Adequately Conserved), California horned lark ( Eremophila alpestris actia ; CDFW Watch List, MSHCP Adequately Conserved),
Costa’s hummingbird ( Calypte costae; CDFW Special Animal, not covered by MSHCP). great blue heron (fly over) ( Ardea herodias; CDFW Special Animal, MSHCP Adequately Conserved),
All of these species are considered Adequately Conserved under the MSHCP except Costa’s hummingbird, which is not covered under the MSHCP.
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Two (2) special status species were observed or detected during the 2019 survey (Figure 11) :
coastal California gnatcatcher and California horned lark. Both were previously observed onsite.
4.4.1) Burrowing Owl
Previous focused surveys for burrowing owl (2005, 2006, 2007, 2011, and 2013) did not detect burrowing owls utilizing the site. However, one (1) location may have been used in the relatively recent past, based on presence of a single feather found during the 2013 survey at an entrance to a hole beneath a grouping of medium-sized rocks. No burrowing owl or sign was observed during 2017 general biological surveys.
Focused surveys in 2018 observed a single burrowing owl onsite and one (1) burrow with signs of occupation (Figure 10). The burrow was found very close to where the owl was observed.
Pellets, scat, feathers, owl tracks, and pieces of shredded cloth were observed at the burrow entrance. It was not determined if the owl was using the burrow for nesting purposes. The burrow was surveilled during subsequent site visits, but there were no additional observations of burrowing owl adults or juveniles. Coyote and/or dog tracks were observed around the burrow, but the burrow itself was not disturbed and there were no signs that owls had been predated.
No other active burrows or burrowing owls were observed during surveys in 2018.
Focused surveys in 2019 did not detect any burrowing owl, occupied burrows, or owl sign. The agricultural fields on the site, including the site of the 2018 burrow observation, had tall, dense non-native vegetation. This vegetation created unsuitable conditions for burrowing owl. If future farming activities remove this vegetation, potentially suitable habitat may be present on the site again.
4.5) Jurisdictional Areas (MSHCP Riparian/Riverine and Vernal Pool Habitat) The subject site contains woody, water-dependent vegetation. Arroyo willow, Fremont cottonwood, and mulefat are present within the mapped features (Figure 12). An ephemeral stream is present and mapped as a USGS blue-line stream. Surface water was not observed within any of the onsite drainage features during the 2013 or 2017 surveys. An updated jurisdictional delineation was completed in 2011, revised in 2013, and updated and verified in 2018 and 2019 (L&L 2011, 2018a, 2019).
Soil types within the study area are not consistent with an alkali playa or vernal pool complex and pools or depressions characteristic of vernal pool habitat were not noted as present onsite.
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No MSHCP species listed for protection associated with riparian/riverine areas and vernal pools were observed. No fairy shrimp or potential fairy shrimp habitat was observed during this study.
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L&L Environmental, Inc.
BIOLOGICAL AND CULTURAL
INVESTIGATIONS AND MONITORING
RLCC-03-187
July 2019
Figure 6
Vegetation Community Map
(Photo obtained from Google Earth, February 2016)
Golden Meadows, TT 31194
City of Menifee, California
Burrowing Owl Surveys
Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California July 2019 RLCC-03-R187.BO9 (final) L&L 25
L&L Environmental, Inc.
BIOLOGICAL AND CULTURAL
INVESTIGATIONS AND MONITORING
RLCC-03-187
July 2019
Figure 7
Special Status Species – 2011
(Photo obtained from Google Earth, February 2016)
Golden Meadows, TT 31194
City of Menifee, California
Burrowing Owl Surveys
Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California July 2019 RLCC-03-R187.BO9 (final) L&L 26
L&L Environmental, Inc.
BIOLOGICAL AND CULTURAL
INVESTIGATIONS AND MONITORING
RLCC-03-187
July 2019
Figure 8
Special Status Species – 2013
(Photo obtained from Google Earth, February 2016)
Golden Meadows, TT 31194
City of Menifee, California
Burrowing Owl Surveys
Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California July 2019 RLCC-03-R187.BO9 (final) L&L 27
L&L Environmental, Inc.
BIOLOGICAL AND CULTURAL
INVESTIGATIONS AND MONITORING
RLCC-03-187
July 2019
Figure 9
Special Status Species – 2017
(Photo obtained from Google Earth, February 2016)
Golden Meadows, TT 31194
City of Menifee, California
Burrowing Owl Surveys
Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California July 2019 RLCC-03-R187.BO9 (final) L&L 28
L&L Environmental, Inc.
BIOLOGICAL AND CULTURAL
INVESTIGATIONS AND MONITORING
RLCC-03-187
July 2019
Figure 10
Special Status Species – 2018
(Photo obtained from Google Earth, February 2018)
Golden Meadows, TT 31194
City of Menifee, California
Burrowing Owl Surveys
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L&L Environmental, Inc.
BIOLOGICAL AND CULTURAL
INVESTIGATIONS AND MONITORING
RLCC-03-187
July 2019
Figure 11
Special Status Species – 2019
(Photo obtained from Google Earth, February 2018)
Golden Meadows, TT 31194
City of Menifee, California
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1 Figure 12
Jurisdictional Areas (2019)
(Photo obtained from Google Earth, 3-9-2011)
Golden Meadows, TT 31194
City of Menifee, California
L&L Environmental, Inc.
BIOLOGICAL AND CULTURAL
INVESTIGATIONS AND MONITORING
RLCC-03-187
July 2019
1 1b
4 2
3 5
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5.0) IMPACTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
The purpose of this study was to identify biological resources on the project site, specifically burrowing owl.
The impacts and recommendations identified are based on the literature review, knowledge of species and habitats in the site vicinity, and the biological field survey. The information in this section is intended to serve as a planning tool for making decisions about future development of the project site.
No burrowing owl, occupied burrows, or owl sign were observed onsite during the breeding season survey in 2019. The agricultural fields on the site, including the site of the 2018 burrow observation, had tall, dense non-native vegetation. This vegetation created unsuitable conditions for burrowing owl. If future farming activities remove this vegetation, potentially suitable habitat may be present on the site again. A preconstruction burrowing owl survey is recommended. Annual burrowing owl surveys are advisable until the project reaches the construction stage.
Trees and other vegetation and habitat suitable for nesting birds are present within and around the site and a potential raptor nest site (unoccupied) is present onsite. Based upon presence of potential nesting habitat, a preconstruction clearance survey for nesting birds, including raptors, is recommended prior to any site disturbance during the nesting season (generally February 1 through August 31). If nesting birds are present, avoidance of nests will be required and a buffer of at least 500 feet is recommended until juvenile birds have fledged and/or an authorized biologist has verified that the nest has become inactive.
Previous surveys identified one (1) special status plant species, long-spined spineflower. Under the MSHCP, this species is considered to be Adequately Conserved. Special status wildlife species observed during surveys include coastal California gnatcatcher, California horned lark , San Diego black-tailed jackrabbit, great blue heron , coast horned lizard, Cooper’s hawk, white- tailed kite, northern harrier, and Costa’s hummingbird. All of these species are considered Adequately Conserved under the MSHCP except Costa’s hummingbird, which is not covered under the MSHCP.
Soil types are not consistent with an alkali playa or vernal pool complex and pools or depressions characteristic of vernal pool habitat were not identified onsite. No MSHCP species Burrowing Owl Surveys
Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California July 2019 RLCC-03-R187.BO9 (final) L&L 32
listed for protection associated with riparian/riverine areas and vernal pools were observed. No fairy shrimp or potential fairy shrimp habitat was observed during this study.
Jurisdictional areas were identified onsite and have been reported previously. Regulatory permits will be required for impacts to jurisdictional areas.
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6.0) REFERENCES
American Ornithologists Union. 1983, 1989. Checklist of North American Birds.
Arnett, Ross H. Jr. 2000. American Insects: A Handbook of the Insects of America North o f Mexico. CRC Press, New York, New York. 1003 pp.
Brown, David E. 1994. Biotic Communities: Southwestern United States and Mexico .
University of Utah Press, Salt Lake City, Utah. 342 pp.
CBOC (California Burrowing Owl Consortium). 1993. California Burrowing Owl Survey Protocol and Mitigation Guidelines.
CDFW (California Department of Fish and Wildlife). 2019a. Special Animals List, August.
_____. 2019b. Special Vascular Plants, Bryophytes, and Lichens List, April.
_____. 2019c. California Natural Diversity Database.
_____. 2019d. California Natural Community List.
https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=153398&inline
Dudek (Dudek & Associates, Inc.). 2003. Western Riverside County MSHCP, Vol. I. The Plan and Vol. II-A through E. The MSHCP Reference Document.
Feeney, L. 1992. Site fidelity in burrowing owls. Unpublished paper presented to Raptor Research Annual Meeting, November 1992. Seattle, Washington.
Hickman, J. (editor). 1993. The Jepson Manual: Higher Plants of California . University of California Press, Berkeley, California.
Jameson, E. W. and H. J. Peeters. 1988. California Mammals. University of California Press, Berkeley.
Jepson (Jepson Flora Project, eds.) 2019. Jepson eFlora. http://ucjeps.berkeley.edu/eflora/
L&L (L&L Environmental, Inc.) 2003a. General Biological Survey Report for the Menifee Tract 31194 Riverside County, California.
_____. 2003b. Jurisdictional Delineation for the Menifee Assemblage APN #360-300-002, 003- 006, 008, and 360-350-001, Menifee, Riverside County, California.
_____. 2004a. A Spring Botanical Survey, on Tract 31194, Menifee Assemblage, Riverside County, California.
_____. 2004b. Focused Survey for the Quino Checkerspot Butterfly on Tract 31194, Menifee Assemblage, Riverside County, California.
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_____. 2004c. Focused Survey for the Coastal California Gnatcatcher on Tract 31194, Menifee Assemblage, Riverside County, California.
_____. 2005. A Burrowing Owl Species Survey for the Menifee Assemblage Project Menifee, Riverside County, California.
_____. 2006a. Focused Breeding Season Burrowing Owl Habitat Assessment and Burrow Survey for Menifee Assemblage, Riverside County, California.
_____. 2006b. Focused Least Bell’s Vireo and Southwestern Willow Flycatcher Survey and Habitat Assessment for Yellow-Billed Cuckoo for the Menifee Assemblage Site, County of Riverside, California.
_____. 2007. Focused Breeding Season Burrowing Owl Habitat Assessment and Burrow Survey for Menifee Assemblage, Riverside County, California.
_____. 2011 (2012 & 2013 revisions). Revised Updated Biological Assessment, Burrowing Owl, and Jurisdictional Delineation Surveys for Tract 31194, Golden Meadows, City of Menifee, California.
_____. 2013. Biological Assessment and Breeding Season Burrowing Owl Surveys for TR 31194, Golden Meadows, City of Menifee, California.
_____. 2017. Biological Assessment and Botanical Surveys for Tract 31194, Golden Meadows, City of Menifee, California.
_____. 2018a. Updated Jurisdictional Delineation for TR 31194, Golden Meadows, City of Menifee, California.
_____. 2019. Revised Updated Jurisdictional Delineation for TR 31194, Golden Meadows, City of Menifee, California.
_____. 2018b. Focused Burrowing Owl and Raptor Nest Surveys for TR 31194, Golden Meadows, City of Menifee, California.
NRCS (USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service). 2018. Soil Survey Geographic [SSURGO] Database.
http://www.ncgc.nrcs.usda.gov/products/datasets/ssurgo/index.html
Recon. 1985. The Distribution, Status, and Conservation of Vernal Pool and Alkali Playa Wetlands of the Upper Salt Creek Drainage, Hemet, California.
Rich, T. 1984. Monitoring Burrowing Owl populations: implications of burrow re-use. Wildl.
Soc. Bull. 12: 178-180.
Sawyer, John O. , T. Keeler-Wolf, and J. M. Evens. 2009. A Manual of California Vegetation , 2nd Edition. California Native Plant Society, Sacramento, California. 1300 pp.
Schoenherr, Allan A. (editor). 1990. Endangered Plant Communities of Southern California .
Southern California Botanists, Claremont, California. 114 pp.
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Sibley, David Allen. 2000. The Sibley Guide to Birds . Alfred A. Knopf, Inc., New York, New York. 545 pp.
Small, Arnold. 1994. California Birds: Their Status and Distribution . Ibis Publishing Company, Vista, California. 342 pp.
Stebbins, R. C. 1985. Western Reptiles and Amphibians. Houghton Mifflin Company, Boston Mass.
T&B (T&B Planning Consultants, Inc.) 2006. Final Environmental Impact Report No. 458.
Tentative Tract map No. 31194, Change of Zone No. 06764, General Plan Amendment No. 00729 (SCH No. 2003061122), Riverside County, California.
USFWS (U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service). 2019. Information for Planning and Consultation (IPaC), https://ecos.fws.gov/ipac/
USGS (U. S. Geological Survey). 19 79. Romoland, California 7.5-Minute topographic map.
USGS, Denver, Colorado.
Zeiner, D.C., W. F.Laudenslayer, Jr., K. E. Mayer, and M. White, eds. 1990. California's Wildlife: Birds. California Department of Fish and Game, Sacramento, California.
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APPENDIX A: Plant and Wildlife Species
Table 2. Plant and wildlife species. Plant and wildlife species identified on the Golden Meadows site during surveys from 2003 to 2018. One asterisk (*) indicates a non-native species; two asterisks (**) indicates a special status species; a question mark (?) indicates uncertainty regarding identification or native status. Wildlife species list excludes invertebrates.
Plants [N=115]
Scientific Name Common Name
VASCULAR PLANTS
Dicotyledons
ADOXACEAE MUSKROOT FAMILY
Sambucus nigra ssp. cerulea
(S. mexicana)
Mexican elderberry, blue elderberry
AMARANTHACEAE AMARANTH FAMILY
* Amaranthus albus Tumbleweed, tumbling pigweed
ANACARDIACEAE SUMAC or CASHEW FAMILY
* Schinus molle
Peruvian pepper tree
APIACEAE CELERY FAMILY
Daucus pusillus
Rattlesnake weed, wild carrot
ASTERACEAE ASTER FAMILY
Acourtia microcephala
(Perezia microcephala)
Scapellote, perezia
Ambrosia acanthicarpa Annual bur-sage, annual sandbur
* Anthemis cotula
Mayweed, dog mayweed
Artemisia californica California sagebrush
Baccharis salicifolia (B.
glutinosa)
Mulefat
Bebbia juncea Sweetbush
* Centaurea melitensis
Tocalote
Chaenactis artemisiifolia
White pincushion, wormwood pincushion
Corethrogyne filaginifolia var.
filaginifolia
(Lessingia filaginifolia)
California-aster, sand-aster
Deinandra fasciculata
(Hemizonia fasciculata)
Fascicled tarplant, slender tarweed
Encelia farinosa
Brittlebush
Erigeron canadensis
(Conyza canadensis)
Horseweed, mare's tail
Eriophyllum confertiflorum
Golden-yarrow
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Eriophyllum multicaule
Many-stem woolly daisy
Gutierrezia californica (G.
bracteata) California matchweed
Helianthus annuus Western sunflower
* Lactuca serriola Prickly lettuce
Lasthenia californica
(L. chrysostoma)
California goldfields
Layia platyglossa
Tidy-tips
Logfia filaginoides
(Filago californica)
California filago
*
Matricaria discoidea
(Chamomilla suaveolens,
M. matricarioides)
Pineapple weed
Rafinesquia californica California chicory
* Senecio vulgaris Common groundsel
* Sonchus oleraceus Common sow thistle
Stephanomeria virgata
Wreath plant
Stylocline gnaphaloides Everlasting neststraw
Tetradymia comosa
Hairy horsebrush, common-thorn
Uropappus lindleyi
(Microseris lindleyi, M.
linearifolia)
Silverpuffs
*? Xanthium spinosum
Spiny cocklebur
BORAGINACEAE BORAGE OR WATERLEAF FAMILY
Amsinckia intermedia
(A. menziesii var. intermedia)
Large flower rancher's fiddleneck
Cryptantha intermedia Common cryptantha
Heliotropium curassavicum Wild heliotrope
Pectocarya linearis
Slender pectocarya
Phacelia minor Wild Canterbury bells
Phacelia ramosissima
Branching phacelia
Plagiobothrys sp. Popcornflower
BRASSICACEAE MUSTARD FAMILY
* Brassica nigra
Black mustard
* Hirschfeldia incana
(Brassica geniculata)
Shortpod mustard
Lepidium nitidum
Shining peppergrass
* Raphanus sativus
Wild radish
* Sisymbrium irio London rocket
* Sisymbrium orientale
Wild mustard, hare's ear cabbage
Thysanocarpus curvipes Lacepod
CACTACEAE CACTUS FAMILY
Cylindropuntia californica var.
parkeri (Opuntia parryi)
Valley cholla
CHENOPODIACEAE GOOSEFOOT FAMILY
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* Chenopodium murale
Nettle-leaved goosefoot, lamb's quarters
* Salsola tragus Russian thistle
CONVOLVULACEAE MORNING-GLORY FAMILY
Calystegia macrostegia
Morning-glory
Cuscuta californica
Chaparral dodder, witch's hair
CRASSULACEAE STONECROP FAMILY
Crassula connata (C. erecta)
Pygmy-weed, pygmy stonecrop
CUCURBITACEAE GOURD FAMILY, CUCUMBER FAMILY
Cucurbita foetidissima Calabazilla
Marah macrocarpa Chilicothe, wild cucumber
EUPHORBIACEAE SPURGE FAMILY
Croton setiger (C. setigerus,
Eremocarpus setiger, E.
setigerus)
Turkey-mullein, doveweed
Euphorbia albomarginata
(Chamaesyce
albomarginata)
Rattlesnake sandmat, rattlesnake weed
FABACEAE LEGUME FAMILY, PEA FAMILY
Acmispon americanus
(Lotus purshianus, L.
unifoliatus)
"Spanish" clover
Acmispon glaber
(Lotus scoparius)
Deerweed
Lupinus sp.
Unid. lupine
Lupinus bicolor
Miniature lupine, dove lupine
* Medicago polymorpha
California burclover
* Vicia villosa
Winter vetch
GERANIACEAE GERANIUM FAMILY
* Erodium botrys
Long-beak filaree
* Erodium cicutarium Redstem filaree
LAMIACEAE MINT FAMILY
* Marrubium vulgare Horehound
Salvia apiana White sage
Salvia columbariae Chia
Salvia mellifera
Black sage
Trichostema lanceolatum
Vinegar weed
MALVACEAE MALLOW FAMILY
* Malva parviflora Cheeseweed
MYRSINACEAE MYRSINE FAMILY
* Anagallis arvensis
Scarlet pimpernel
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MYRTACEAE MYRTLE FAMILY, EUCALYPTUS FAMILY
* Eucalyptus sp. Ornamental eucalyptus
NYCTAGINACEAE FOUR O'CLOCK FAMILY
Mirabilis laevis var. crassifolia
(M. californica)
Wishbone bush
ONAGRACEAE EVENING-PRIMROSE FAMILY
Camissonia sp. Unid. evening-primrose
Eulobus californica
(Camissonia
californica)
California false mustard, mustard evening primrose
PAPAVERACEAE POPPY FAMILY
Eschscholzia californica
California poppy
PHRYMACEAE LOPSEED FAMILY
Mimulus aurantiacus
(M. puniceus, M. longiflorus)
Bush monkeyflower,sticky monkeyflower
Mimulus guttatus
Seep monkeyflower
PLANTAGINACEAE PLANTAIN FAMILY
Antirrhinum nuttallianum
Nuttall snapdragon, violet snapdragon
Keckiella antirrhinoides
Yellow bush-penstemon
Plantago erecta
California plantain
POLEMONIACEAE PHLOX FAMILY
Eriastrum sapphirinum Sapphire woollystar
Navarretia hamata
Hooked navarretia
POLYGONACEAE BUCKWHEAT FAMILY
Chorizanthe fimbriata
Fringed spineflower
**
Chorizanthe polygonoides var.
longispina
Long-spined spineflower
Eriogonum fasciculatum
var. foliolosum
Leafy California wild buckwheat, interior California
buckwheat
Eriogonum fasciculatum
var. polifolium
Mojave Desert California buckwheat
*
Polygonum aviculare ssp.
depressum (P. arenastrum)
Common knotweed
* Rumex crispus
Curly dock
ROSACEAE ROSE FAMILY
Adenostoma fasciculatum
Chamise
RUBIACEAE MADDER FAMILY, COFFEE FAMILY
*? Galium aparine
Goose grass, annual bedstraw
Burrowing Owl Surveys
Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California July 2019 RLCC-03-R187.BO9 (final) L&L 40
SALICACEAE WILLOW FAMILY
Populus fremontii ssp.
fremontii
Fremont cottonwood
Salix lasiolepis
Arroyo willow
SCROPHULARIACEAE FIGWORT FAMILY, SNAPDRAGON FAMILY
Scrophularia californica
California figwort, coast figwort
SOLANACEAE NIGHTSHADE FAMILY
Datura wrightii (D. meteloides) Jimsonweed, tolguacha
* Nicotiana glauca Tree tobacco
*?
Solanum americanum
(S. nodiflorum)
White nightshade
TAMARICACEAE TAMARISK FAMILY
* Tamarix species Tamarisk
URTICACEAE NETTLE FAMILY
* Urtica urens
Dwarf nettle
ZYGOPHYLLACEAE CALTROP FAMILY
* Tribulus terrestris Puncture vine
Monocotyledons
AGAVACEAE CENTURY PLANT FAMILY, AGAVE FAMILY
Hesperoyucca whipplei
(Yucca whipplei)
Chaparral yucca
LILIACEAE LILY FAMILY
Calochortus splendens
Splendid mariposa lily
POACEAE GRASS FAMILY
* Avena barbata
Slender wild oat
* Avena fatua
Wild oat
* Bromus species Non-native brome
* Bromus diandrus (B. rigidus)
Ripgut brome
* Bromus madritensis ssp.
rubens (B. rubens)
Red brome
* Hordeum murinum
Wall barley, hare barley
* Lamarckia aurea
Goldentop grass
* Phalaris species
Unid. canary grass
* Schismus barbatus
Mediterranean schismus
* Triticum aestivum
Common wheat (cultivated)
THEMIDACEAE BRODIAEA FAMILY
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Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California July 2019 RLCC-03-R187.BO9 (final) L&L 41
Dichelostemma capitatum
(D. pulchella, Brodiaea
pulchella)
Blue dicks, wild hyacinth
Muilla maratima Common muilla
* non-native species ** special status species
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Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California July 2019 RLCC-03-R187.BO9 (final) L&L 42
Wildlife [N=59]
Scientific Name Common Name
VERTEBRATES
Reptiles
Iguanidae Iguanid Lizards
Sceloporus orcutti
Granite spiny lizard
Uta stansburiana
Side-blotched lizard
Phrynosomatidae Spiny Lizards
** Phrynosoma blainvillii
Coast horned lizard
Teiidae Whiptails and Relatives
** Aspidoscelis hyperythra
Orange-throated whiptail
** Aspidoscelis tigris stejnegeri
Coastal (western) whiptail
Birds
Accipitridae Hawks, Eagles, and Harriers
** Accipiter cooperii Cooper's hawk
Buteo jamaicensis
Red-tailed hawk
** Circus cyaneus
Northern harrier
** Elanus leucurus
White-tailed kite
Aegithalidae Long-tailed Tits
Psaltriparus minimus
Bushtit
Alaudidae Larks
** Eremophila alpestris actia
California horned lark
Apodidae Swifts
Aeronautes saxatalis
White-throated swift
Ardeidae Herons
** Ardea herodias
Great blue heron (fly over)
Cathartidae Vultures
Cathartes aura
Turkey vulture
Charadriidae Plovers
Charadrius vociferus
Killdeer
Columbidae Pigeons and Doves
* Columba livia
Rock dove, common pigeon
Zenaida macroura
Mourning dove
Corvidae Crows and Jays
Aphelocoma californica
California scrub jay
Corvus brachyrhynchos
American crow
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Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California July 2019 RLCC-03-R187.BO9 (final) L&L 43
Corvus corax
Common raven
Cuculidae Cuckoos
Geococcyx californianus
Greater roadrunner
Emberizidae Emberizine Sparrows
Amphispiza belli
Sage sparrow
Melospiza melodia
Song sparrow
Pipilo crissalis senicula
California towhee
Zonotrichia leucophrys
White-crowned sparrow
Falconidae Falcons
Falco sparverius
American kestrel
Fringillidae Finches
Carduelis psaltria
Lesser goldfinch
Haemorhous (Carpodacus) mexicanus
House finch
Hirundinidae Swallows
Petrochelidon pyrrhonota tachina
Cliff swallow
Stelgidopteryx serripennis
Northern rough-winged swallow
Icteridae Icterids
Agelaius phoeniceus
Red-winged blackbird
Euphagus cyanocephalus
Brewer's blackbird
Icterus bullockii
Bullock's oriole
Sturnella neglecta
Western meadowlark
Mimidae Mockingbirds
Mimus polyglottos polyglottos
Northern mockingbird
Toxostoma redivivum
California thrasher
Odontophoridae Quail
Callipepla californica californica
California quail
Parulidae Wood Warblers
Dendroica coronata
Yellow-rumped warbler
Picidae Woodpeckers
Colaptes auratus
Northern flicker
Picoides nuttallii
Nuttall's woodpecker
Polioptilidae Gnatcatchers
Polioptila caerulea
Blue-gray gnatcatcher
** Polioptila californica californica
Coastal California gnatcatcher
Strigidae Owls
** Athene cunicularia
Burrowing owl
Sturnidae Starlings
* Sturnus vulgaris
European starling
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Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California July 2019 RLCC-03-R187.BO9 (final) L&L 44
Timaliidae Babblers
Chamaea fasciata
Wrentit
Trochilidae Hummingbirds
Calypte anna
Anna's hummingbird
** Calypte costae
Costa's hummingbird
Troglodytidae Wrens
Catherpes mexicanus
Canyon wren
Thryomanes bewickii
Bewick's wren
Turdidae Thrushes
Sialia mexicana
Western bluebird
Tyrannidae Tyrant Flycatchers
Sayornis nigricans
Black phoebe
Sayornis saya
Say's phoebe
Tyrannus verticalis
Western kingbird
Mammals
Canidae Dogs, Foxes, and Coyotes
Canis domesticus
Domestic dog
Canis latrans
Coyote
Geomyidae Pocket Gophers
Thomomys bottae
Botta's pocket gopher (sign)
Leporidae Rabbits
** Lepus californicus
Black-tailed jackrabbit
Sylvilagus audubonii
Audubon's cottontail
Sciuridae Squirrels
Spermophilus beecheyi
California ground squirrel
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Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California July 2019 RLCC-03-R187.BO9 (final) L&L 45
Table 3. Special Status Species Observations.
Species Number Date
Location
on Site
GPS Coordinates
(WGS 1984)
Elevation
(feet)
CAGN 1 04.16.19 N central N 33.655093, E -117.189888 1629 CAGN* 1 03.11.19 NE corner N 33.655673, E -117.184620 1557 HOLA S 04.16.19 SE N 33.650844, E -117.185067 1557
HOLA S 05.28.19 Central N 33.653331, E -117.191005 1524 BTJA 1 06.14.18 NE N 33.654478, E -117.193719 1512
HOLA S 06.14.18 Central N 33.653079, E -117.191911 1520 HOLA S 05.24.18 SE N 33.650510, E -117.185130 1548
BUOW 1 05.30.18 SE central N 33.650610, E -117.188668 1536 CAGN 2 (pair) 05.24.18 NE corner N 33.655112, E -117.185740 1576 CHPO 2 05.12.17 NE corner N 33.655304, E -117.187238 ~1600 CAGN** 2 (pair) 03.28.17 NE corner N 33.655604, E -117.184969 1576 CAGN 1 (male) 03.28.17 NE corner N 33.654170, E -117.185007 1656 CAGN 1 (male) 04.01.17 N central N 33.655336, E -117.190141 1621 BTJA*** 2 03.28.17 NE corner N 33.654645, E -117.185019 1650 BTJA 2 04.01.17 N central N 33.654137, E -117.187498 1583 GBHE 1 04.01.17 NW corner N 33.655683, E -117.194971 fly over HOLA S 04.01.17 E central N 33.652212, E -117.186278 1560 HOLA S 04.08.17 W central N 33.653324, E -117.194038 1519 HOLA S 04.25.17 N central N 33.653816, E -117.188586 1556 HOLA 20+ 09.17.13 E central N 33.65190, E -117.17614 1561 BTJA 1 ---.---.13 N central N 33.655294, E -117.1908176 1563 BTJA 1 ---.---.13 Central N 33.651907, E -117.188694 1545 BTJA 1 ---.---.13 S central N 33.649095, E -117.188265 1570 BTJA 1 ---.---.13 E offsite N 33.649251, E -117.179982 1513 BTJA 1 04.26.11 S central N 33.64902, E -117.18801 1579 BTJA 1 04.26.11 Central N 33.65179, E -117.18867 1546
BTJA 1 04.26.11 N central N 33.65523, E -117.19081 1557 BTJA 7+ 04.26.11 NW Multiple locations, see Figure 9 ----- CAGN 2 (pair) 04.29.11 NW N 33.65529, E -117.19003 1637 CAGN 1 (male) 04.26.11 NW N 33.65548, E -117.19102 1557 CHL 1 04.26.11 NE N 33.65564, E -117.18898 1723
WTKI 1 04.26.11 Central N 33.653036, E -117.191520 fly over BTJA=black-tailed jackrabbit, CAGN=coastal California gnatcatcher, CHL=coast horned lizard, CHPO=long -spined spineflower, GBHE=great blue heron, HOLA=California horned lark, WTKI=white-tailed kite.
S=several, no exact count. Observations may or may not represent the same individuals observed on a different survey date. *CAGN detected during unrelated survey of adjacent property. **CAGN was also detected in the same approximate areas on 04.08.17, 04.25.17, and 05.06.17. These are likely the same individuals previously detected in the area.
***BTJA was also detected in the same approximate areas on 04.08.17 and 05.06.17; number of individuals was not determined.
Other species observed dur ing previous surveys are Cooper’s hawk (2007), northern harrier (2011, 2013), and Costa’s hummingbird (2011); details of these observations are not available.
Details of observations prior to 2011 are not available.
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Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California July 2019 RLCC-03-R187.BO9 (final) L&L 46
APPENDIX B: Site Photographs
1 2
3 4
5 6
7 Burrowing Owl Surveys
Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California July 2019 RLCC-03-R187.BO9 (final) L&L 47
(1) Burrowing owl observed on the site in 2018 (May 30, 2018)
Burrowing Owl Surveys
Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California July 2019 RLCC-03-R187.BO9 (final) L&L 48
(2) Burrowing owl burrow site (June 14, 2018).
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Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California July 2019 RLCC-03-R187.BO9 (final) L&L 49
(3) Potential raptor nest (inactive) in eucalyptus tree (June 14, 2018).
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(4) Tall, thick growth of mustard and other non-native
plants throughout the agricultural fields in 2019
(04.16.2019).
(5) Thick growth of mustard in agricultural fields;
eucalyptus tree with inactive raptor nest in background (05.15.2019).
(6) Agricultural fields with buckwheat scrub on slopes in the background (06.23.2019).
(7) Vicinity of 2018 burrow showing thick growth of
non-native vegetation in 2019 (06.23.2019).
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Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California July 2019 RLCC-03-R187.BO9 (final) L&L 51
APPENDIX C: Riverside County Documentation
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Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California July 2019 RLCC-03-R187.BO9 (final) L&L 52
Certification
Certification: I hereby certify that the statements furnished above and in the attached exhibits present the data and information required for this biological evaluation, and that the facts, statements, and information presented are true and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief.
DATE: July 15, 2019 SIGNED:
Leslie Irish, Principal, L&L Environmental, Inc.
909-335-9897
1) Fieldwork Performed By: 2) Fieldwork Performed By:
Guy Bruyea
Name Name
3) Fieldwork Performed By: 4) Fieldwork Performed By:
Name Name
5) Fieldwork Performed By: 6) Fieldwork Performed By:
Name Name
Check here if adding any additional names / signatures below or on other side of page.
Burrowing Owl Surveys
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BIOLOGICAL REPORT SUMMARY SHEET
Applicant Name: Richland Communities
Assessor’s Parcel Number(s): 360-300-002, -003, -004, -005, -006, -009, 360-350-001 Section, Township and Range: Sections 15 and 16, Township 6 South, Range 3 West Building and Safety Log Number: ____________________________________________ Case Number: TR 31194 Lot/Parcel _________ EA Number _________
MARK ITEM(S)
SURVEYED FOR
SPECIES or ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUE of
CONCERN
(Mark Yes, No, or N/A
regarding species findings on
the referenced site)
Yes No n/a
Arroyo Southwestern Toad Yes No n/a
X Blue-line Stream(s) (previous survey) Yes No n/a
X Burrowing Owl Yes No n/a
Coachella Valley Fringed-toed Lizard Yes No n/a
X Coastal California Gnatcatcher Yes No n/a
X Coastal Sage Scrub (previous survey) Yes No n/a
Delhi Sands Flower-loving Fly Yes No n/a
Desert Pupfish Yes No n/a
Desert Slender Salamander Yes No n/a
Desert Tortoise Yes No n/a
Flat-tailed Horned Lizard Yes No n/a
Least Bell’s Vireo Yes No n/a
X Oak Woodlands (previous survey) Yes No n/a
X Quino Checkerspot Butterfly (previous survey) Yes No n/a Riverside Fairy Shrimp Yes No n/a
Santa Ana River Woolystar Yes No n/a
San Bernardino Kangaroo Rat Yes No n/a
Slender-horned Spineflower Yes No n/a
Stephens’ Kangaroo Rat Yes No n/a
X Vernal Pools (previous survey) Yes No n/a
X Wetlands (previous survey) Yes No n/a
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Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California July 2019 RLCC-03-R187.BO9 (final) L&L 54
MARK ITEM(S)
SURVEYED FOR
SPECIES or ENVIRONMENTAL
ISSUE of CONCERN
(Mark Yes, No, or N/A regarding
species findings on the referenced
site)
X Cooper’s Hawk (previous surveys) Yes No n/a
X California Horned Lark Yes No n/a
X Black-tailed Jackrabbit (previous surveys) Yes No n/a X White-tailed Kite (previous surveys) Yes No n/a
X Coast Horned Lizard (previous surveys) Yes No n/a
X Long-spined spineflower (previous survey) Yes No n/a
X Great blue heron (previous survey) Yes No n/a
X Northern harrier (previous survey) Yes No n/a
X Costa’s hummingbird (previous survey) Yes No n/a
Other Yes No n/a
Species of concern shall be any unique, rare, endangered, or threatened species. It shall include species used to delineate wetlands and riparian corridors. It shall also include any hosts, perching, or food plants used by any animals listed as rare, endangered, threatened, or candidate species by either state, or federal regulations, or for Riverside County as listed by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife Natural Diversity Data Base (CNDDB).
I declare under penalty of perjury that the information provided on this summary sheet is in accordance with the information provided in the biological report or habitat assessment.
L & L Environmental, Inc. July 15, 2019
Signature and Company Name Date
___________________________________________
10(a) Permit Number (if applicable) Permit Expiration Date
County Use Only
Received By: _________________________________________ Date: ____________________ PD-B# ______________________________________________
Burrowing Owl Surveys
Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California July 2019 RLCC-03-R187.BO9 (final) L&L 55
Attachment E-4
LEVEL OF SIGNIFICANCE CHECKLIST
For Biological Resources
(Submit two copies to the County)
Case Number: TR 31194 Lot/Parcel No. _____________ EA Number _________ Assessor's Parcel Number(s): 360-300-002, -003, -004, -005, -006, -009, 360-350-001 Date: July 15, 2019
Biological Resources: (Check the level of impact that applies to the following questions.)
Potentially Less than Significant Less than No
Significant Impact with Mitigation Significant Impact
Impact Incorporated Impact
a) Conflict with the provisions of an adopted Habitat Conservation Plan, Natural Conservation Community Plan, or other approved local, regional, or state conservation plan?
b) Have a substantial adverse effect, either directly or through habitat modifications, on any endangered, or threatened species, as listed in Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations (Sections 670.2 or 670.5) or in Title 50, Code of Federal Regulations (Sections 17.11 or 17.12)?
c) Have a substantial adverse effect, either directly or through habitat modifications, on any species identified as a candidate, sensitive, or special status species in local or regional plans, policies, or regulations, or by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, or U. S. Wildlife Service?
d) Interfere substantially with the movement of any native resident or migratory fish or wildlife species, or with established native resident migratory wildlife corridors, or impede the use of native wildlife nursery sites?
Burrowing Owl Surveys
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LEVEL OF SIGNIFICANCE CHECKLIST
For Biological Resources
(Submit two copies to the County)
e) Have a substantial adverse effect on any riparian habitat, or other sensitive natural community identified in local or regional plans, policies, regulations, or by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, or the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service?
f) Have a substantial adverse effect on federally protected wetlands, as defined by Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (including, but not limited to, marsh, vernal pools, coastal, etc.) through direct removal, filling, hydrological interruption)
g) Conflict with any local policies or ordinances protecting biological resources, such as a tree preservation policy or ordinance?
Findings of Fact:
No burrowing owl, occupied burrows, or owl sign was identified during 2019 surveys. One (1) burrowing owl and one (1) potentially occupied burrow were observed on the site in 2018. Tall, dense non-native vegetation on the site in 2019 made conditions unsuitable for burrowing owl.
If future farming removes this vegetation, habitat may be suitable for burrowing owl again.
Potential nesting bird habitat is present onsite. One (1) inactive potential raptor nest is present onsite.
One (1) special status plant species and nine (9) special status wildlife species have been identified onsite during past and present surveys (long-spined spineflower, coastal California gnatcatcher, Cooper’s hawk, white-tailed kite, California horned lark, great blue heron, northern harrier, Costa’s hummingbird, black-tailed jackrabbit, and coast horned lizard). Coastal California gnatcatcher and California horned lark were observed in 2019.
A mapped blue-line stream is present onsite and is associated with riparian/riverine vegetation.
Proposed Mitigation:
Avoidance and/or onsite or offsite restoration of riparian habitat is recommended.
Preconstruction surveys for burrowing owl and other nesting bird species are recommended prior to disturbance of the site. Annual burrowing owl surveys are advisable until construction starts.
Monitoring Recommended:
None.
Source: CGP Fig. VI.36-VI.40, Revised October 1999
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APPENDIX D: CNDDB Forms 2019
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Burrowing Owl Surveys
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Burrowing Owl Surveys
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C:\Users\hillb\Documents\L&L\RLCC-03-187, Menifee Meadows\BIo\RLCC-03-R187.BA5.BO11.NB4.BS2.LS1.rev3.doc
Celebrating 20+ Years of Service to Southern CA and the Great Basin, WBE Certified (Caltrans, CPUC, WBENC) Mailing Address: 700 East Redlands Blvd, Suite U, PMB#351, Redlands CA 92373 Delivery Address: 721 Nevada Street, Suite 307, Redlands, CA 92373 www.llenviroinc.com | Phone: 909-335-9897 | FAX: 909-335-9893
REVISED FINAL
UPDATED BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES ASSESSMENT, BOTANICAL, BURROWING OWL,
AND NESTING RAPTOR SURVEYS, AND RIPARIAN BIRD HABITAT ASSESSMENT GOLDEN MEADOWS PROJECT, TRACT 31194, CITY OF MENIFEE, CALIFORNIA
±204.65-Acre Property, ±4.68 Acres Offsite, ±209.33 Acres Surveyed
APNs 360-300-002, -003, -004, -005, -006, -009, 360-350-001, and portions of offsite 360-180-009, 360-300-001, -008, 360-350-019, -022, -023, -024, 360-360-009, -010, -011, and 360-380-004, Tract 31194, Township 6 South, Range 3 West, Sections 15 and 16, USGS Romoland, 7.5’ Topographic Quadrangle
Prepared For:
Brian Hardy
Richland Communities
3161 Michelson Drive, Suite 425
Irvine, CA 92612
949-261-7010
Prepared By:
Leslie Irish, Principal
Carla Wakeman, Senior Biologist
Guy Bruyea, Field Biologist
John Konecny, Field Biologist
Jeffrey Sonnentag, GIS and Graphics
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
Report Summary:
The Project site is in the area covered by the MSHCP but is not in the Criteria A rea. The site is mainly agricultural land and disturbed/ruderal areas with some coastal scrub, chaparral, and scattered riparian vegetation. One sensitive vegetation community is present, arroyo willow thickets. No listed plant species observed. Two special status plants, long -spined spineflower and southern California black wa lnut observed. One immature coast live oak and other trees present. Coastal California gnatcatcher present and nesting on the site. White-tailed kite observed foraging but no nesting. No vernal pools or fairy shrimp habitat. Riparian birds consi dered absent. Several special s tatus wildlife spe cies observed. One burrowing owl and occupied burrow observed in 2018 but not present in 2021. A preconstruction survey is required. Habitat suitable for nesting birds is present and preconstruction clearance survey and avoidance buffers recommended during the nesting season . Site is no t within a wildlife corridor.
Jurisdictional and MSHCP riparian/riverine areas present. Regulatory permits and a DBESP are required.
Surveys Conducted By: Guy Bruyea and John Konecny
Surveys Conducted: May – November 2021
Report Date: October 2017, updated October 2018, July 2019, November 2021, revised December 2021
Updated Biological Resources Assessment
Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California December 2021 RLCC-03-R187.BA5.BO11.NB4.BS2.LS1.rev3 ii L&L
TABLE OF CONTENTS
MANAGEMENT SUMMARY ................................ ................................ ................................ ......iv
1.0) INTRODUCTION ................................ ................................ ................................ ................ 1
1.1) Project Description ................................ ................................ ................................ .......... 1
1.2) Location................................ ................................ ................................ ........................... 2 Figure 1. Vicinity Map ................................ ................................ ................................ ...... 3 Figure 2. Project Location ................................ ................................ ................................ 4 Figure 3a. Aerial Photograph ................................ ................................ ........................... 5 Figure 3b. Development Plan ................................ ................................ .......................... 6
1.3) Vegetation and Setting ................................ ................................ ................................ .... 7
1.4) Soils and Topography ................................ ................................ ................................ ...... 7 Figure 4. Soils Map ................................ ................................ ................................ ......... 9
2.0) METHODS AND PERSONNEL ................................ ................................ .........................10
2.1) Literature Review ................................ ................................ ................................ ...........10
2.2) General Biological and Botanical Survey Methods ................................ .........................11 Table 1. General Biological and Botanical Survey Dates and Weather Conditions .........11
2.3) Burrowing Owl Survey Methods ................................ ................................ .....................12 Table 2. Burrowing Owl Survey Dates and Weather Conditions ................................ .....12
2.4) Nesting Raptor Survey Methods ................................ ................................ .....................13
2.5) Riparian Bird Habitat Assessment Methods ................................ ................................ ....13 Figure 5. Burrowing Owl Survey Area ................................ ................................ .............14
3.0) RESULTS ................................ ................................ ................................ ..........................15
3.1) Literature Review Results ................................ ................................ ............................... 15
3.1.1) MSHCP Requirements ................................ ................................ .............................15
3.1.2) Precipitation ................................ ................................ ................................ .............15 Figure 6. MSHCP Cores and Linkages ................................ ................................ ...........16
3.1.3) Previous Surveys ................................ ................................ ................................ .....17
3.1.4) 2006 Environmental Impact Report ................................ ................................ ..........17
3.2) Vegetation Communities ................................ ................................ ................................ 20 Table 3. Vegetation Communities Present ................................ ................................ ......20 Table 4. Vegetation Community Impacts ................................ ................................ ........20
3.2.1) California Buckwheat Scrub ................................ ................................ .....................21
3.2.2) Chamise Chaparral ................................ ................................ ................................ ..21
3.2.3) Arroyo Willow Thickets and Mulefat Thickets ................................ ...........................22
3.2.4) Agriculture and Disturbed/Ruderal ................................ ................................ ...........23 Figure 7. Vegetation Community Map ................................ ................................ ............24
3.3) Plant Species ................................ ................................ ................................ .................25 Table 5. Special Status Plant Species Observations ................................ ......................25
3.3.1) Trees ................................ ................................ ................................ .......................27 Figure 8. Special Status Plant Observations ................................ ................................ ...28
3.4) Wildlife Species ................................ ................................ ................................ ..............29 Table 6. Listed and Special Status Wildlife Species Observations ................................ ..29 Figure 9. Special Status Wildlife Observations (2003-2021) ................................ ...........33
3.4.1) Listed and Fully Protected Wildlife ................................ ................................ ...........34 Coastal California Gnatcatcher ................................ ................................ .......................34 White-tailed Kite ................................ ................................ ................................ .............34 Figure 10. White-tailed Kite Nests Within 10 Miles of the Project Site .............................37 Fairy Shrimp ................................ ................................ ................................ ...................38 Updated Biological Resources Assessment
Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California December 2021 RLCC-03-R187.BA5.BO11.NB4.BS2.LS1.rev3 iii L&L
Riparian Birds ................................ ................................ ................................ .................38 Quino Checkerspot Butterfly ................................ ................................ ...........................39
3.4.2) Special Status Wildlife................................ ................................ .............................. 40 Burrowing Owl ................................ ................................ ................................ ................41 Nesting Birds ................................ ................................ ................................ ..................43
3.4.3) Wildlife Corridor ................................ ................................ ................................ .......43
3.5) Jurisdictional Waters/Wetlands and MSHCP Riparian/Riverine and Vernal Pool Habitat 44 Table 7. Summary of Jurisdictional Resources Present ................................ ..................45 Figure 11. Jurisdictional Areas ................................ ................................ .......................46 Figure 12. Jurisdictional Areas with Development Plan ................................ ..................47
4.0) URBAN WILDLANDS INTERFACE ANALYSIS................................ ................................ 48
4.1) Drainage ................................ ................................ ................................ .........................48
4.2) Toxics ................................ ................................ ................................ .............................49
4.3) Fencing ................................ ................................ ................................ ..........................49
4.4) Barriers................................ ................................ ................................ ...........................50
4.5) Lighting ................................ ................................ ................................ ..........................50
4.6) Noise ................................ ................................ ................................ .............................. 50
4.7) Invasives ................................ ................................ ................................ ........................50
4.8) Grading/Land Development ................................ ................................ ............................51
4.9) Weed Abatement/Fuel Modification ................................ ................................ ................51 MSHCP Table 6-2. Plants to be Avoided Adjacent to the MSHCP Conservation Area ....52
5.0) SUMMARY AND RECOMMENDATIONS ................................ ................................ ..........54
6.0) REGULATORY ENVIRONMENT ................................ ................................ .......................60
6.1) Federal Endangered Species Act ................................ ................................ ...................60
6.2) Jurisdictional Waters and Wetlands ................................ ................................ ................61
6.2.1) Federal Clean Water Act, Section 404 ................................ ................................ .....61
6.2.2) Federal Clean Water Act, Section 401 and Porter-Cologne ................................ .....62
6.2.3) California Fish and Game Code, Section 1600 ................................ ........................62
6.3) California Endangered Species Act ................................ ................................ ................63
6.4) California Environmental Quality Act ................................ ................................ ..............63
6.5) California Natural Diversity Database ................................ ................................ .............64
6.6) California Rare Plant Rank ................................ ................................ .............................64
6.7) Information for Planning and Consultation ................................ ................................ ......64
6.8) Migratory Bird Treaty Act ................................ ................................ ................................ 65
6.9) California Fish and Game Code, Sections 3503 and 3513 ................................ .............65
6.10) Western Riverside County Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan .......................65
7.0) REFERENCES ................................ ................................ ................................ ..................69 APPENDIX A: PLANT AND WILDLIFE SPECIES ................................ ................................ ...74 APPENDIX B: SPECIAL STATUS SPECIES POTENTIALS FOR OCCURRENCE .................85 APPENDIX C: PRECIPITATION DATA ................................ ................................ .................. 110 APPENDIX D: SITE PHOTOGRAPHS ................................ ................................ ................... 114 APPENDIX E: CNDDB FORMS ................................ ................................ ............................. 120 APPENDIX F: RIVERSIDE COUNTY DOCUMENTATION ................................ ..................... 135 APPENDIX G: SITE PLAN ................................ ................................ ................................ ..... 142 Updated Biological Resources Assessment
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MANAGEMENT SUMMARY
L&L Environmental, Inc. (L&L) conducted biological surveys on Richland Com munities’ ±204.65-acre Golden Meadows Project site (and associated offsite improvement areas of ±4.68 acres) in the City of Menifee, Califo rnia. The Project consists of construction of 572 single-family residential lots and associated roads and infrastructure. A blue-line stream runs through the site and t he Project includes an Avoidance/Compatible Use Area along the stream that will r etain native hab itat and natural flows . Open space will also be re tained in the northeast corner of the site. An Environmental Impact R eport (EIR) for the Project was published in 2006.
L&L has performed biological surveys on this property since 2003. The purpose of this study was to examine the site to determine presence/absence of biological resources on the property and potential fo r special status species to occur , as wel l as update previous survey results.
Surveys in 20 21 included a biological resources assessment/habitat assess ment, focuse d botanical survey, protocol breeding sea son burrowing owl survey, nesting raptor survey, an d riparian bird ha bitat assessment. This study reflects the most current field conditions and , where appropriate, makes comparative statements regarding past observed conditions.
The site i s within the area covered by the Western Riverside County Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (MSHCP). The MSHCP requires habitat assessments, and focused surveys if suitable habitat is present, for riparian/ riverine res ources and associated species and burrowing owl (Athene cunicularia). There is one area of Public/Quasi-Public (PQP) Conserved Lands approximately 0.68 miles north -northeast of the site , i dentified as the Ringing Rock Archaeological Site. Other than the Ringing Rock Site, there are no PQP or MSHCP Conserved Lands within a mile of t he site. The site is n ot w ithin or near any MSHCP Core Areas or Linkages.
The site consists mainly of cultivated agricultural fields (dry-farmed wheat) and disturbed/ruderal areas with some ar eas of distu rbed to relatively undisturbed California buckwheat scrub and chamise chaparral. The ephemeral blue-line stream runs through the agricultural fields and includes scattered and degraded riparian vegetation (arroyo willow thickets and mulefat thickets). Arroyo willow thicket is a sensitive vegetation community. No vernal pools or ponding areas were observed.
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Land us e adjacent to the site includes anthropogenic disturbances suc h as rural residential development, agricultural areas, u nimproved roads, powerline easements, off-highway vehicle (OHV) activity, and trash dumping.
No state or federally listed threatened or endangered plant species were observed on the site.
Two (2) special status plant s pecies were observed, southern California black walnut (Juglans californica) and lo ng-spined spineflower ( Chorizanthe polygonoides var. longispina). Five (5) black walnut trees are present within the riparian area on the site. Two long-spined spineflower plants were present in 2017 but the species has not been observed during subsequent surveys.
Both of these species are covered under the MSHCP and considered adequately conserved.
No other special status plants were observed onsite during previous or current surveys, but three (3) species have a low to moderate or moderate potential t o occur : smooth tarplant (Centromadia pungens ssp. laevis ), Parry’s spin eflower ( Chorizanthe parryi var. parryi ), and small-flowered morning-glory (Convolvulus simulans). All of th ese species are covered under the MSHCP and considered adequately conserved.
There is a si ngle i mmature coast live oak tree and a number of other native a nd n on-native trees on the site, mainly in the riparian area. The City may regulate removal or replacement of trees and a tree survey may be required.
Previous and current su rveys have d ocumented coastal Californ ia gnatcatcher s (Polioptila californica californica) present on the Project site and nesting has been observed. This species is federally listed as threatened. All observations were in the California buckwheat scrub habitat in t he no rtheastern portion of the site . Coastal California gnatca tcher is a covered species under the MSHCP and considered adequately conserved. Under the MSHCP, focused surveys for this species are not required.
Two white-tailed kites (Elanus leucurus) were observed on the Project site in 2005 and one in 2011, but this sp ecies has not been observed on the site during more recent su rveys. This species is fully protected in California. The EIR includes a mitigation measure (4.3-5) requiring a nesting raptor survey prior to issuance of grading permits and a CDFW Incidental Take Permit (2080 permit) if white -tailed kite are documented as ne sting on the Project site. The California Natural Diversity Da tabase (CNDDB) has documented occurrences of five (5) white-tailed kite nests within 10 miles of the Project site but no white-tailed kite ne sting has b een observed onsite. White-tailed kite is a co vered species under the MSHCP and considered adequately conserved.
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No vernal pools, ponding areas, or potential habitat for fairy shrimp were observed. The riparian vegetation on the site is scattered and degraded and there is no suitable habi tat for least Bell's vireo (Vireo bellii pusillus ), southwestern wi llow flycatcher (Empidonax t raillii extimus ), or western yellow-billed cuckoo (Coccyzus americanus occidentalis).
Two other listed species have a moderate or high potential to occur on the Project site, although they have not been ob served: Stephens’ kangaroo rat (Dipodomys stephensii) and tricolored blackbird (foraging) (Agelaius tricolor). Both of th ese species are covered under the MSHCP and considered adequately conserved . Under the MSHCP, focused trapping surveys for Stephens’ kangaroo rat are not required.
Habitat suitable for use by burrowing owl is present on much of the property but is regularly disturbed by agricultur al activities . There were no observations of burrowing owls during biological surveys of the sit e in 2 003, 2004, 2 005, 2006, 2011, 2013, and 2017 . Surveys in 2018 observed o ne bur rowing owl and an active burrow . The owl was observed during the survey on May 30, 2018 but was not observed during subsequent surveys. Focused surveys in 2019 and 2021 did not d etect any burrowing owl, occupied burrows , or ow l sig n. A preconstruction clearance survey for burrowing owl (valid for 30 days) will be required.
Other special status w ildlife specie s have observed on the site during previous and current surveys: coast horned lizard ( Phrynosoma blainvillii), orange-throated whiptail (Aspidoscelis hyperythra), coastal (western) whiptail (Aspidoscelis tigris stejnegeri), Cooper’s hawk (Accipiter cooperii), northern harr ier ( Circus hudsonius), California h orned lark (Eremophila alpestris actia), great egre t ( Ardea alba ), great blue heron (fly over ) ( Ardea h erodias), Lawrence’s goldfinch ( Spinus lawr encei), loggerhead shr ike ( Lanius ludovicia nus), California thrasher (Toxostoma redivivum ), southern California rufous-crowned s parrow ( Aimophila rufice ps canescens), B ell’s sage sp arrow ( Artemisiospiza belli belli), Nuttall’s woodpeck er ( Dryobates nuttallii), wrentit ( Chamaea fasciata), Costa’s hu mmingbird ( Calypte costae ), rufous hummingbird ( Selasphorus rufus ), and San Diego black-tailed jackrabbit ( Lepus ca lifornicus bennettii).
All of the se species are covered un der the MSHCP an d considered adequately conserved except great egre t, Lawrence ’s goldfinch, California thrasher, Nuttall’s woodpe cker, wrentit, Costa’s hummingbird, and rufous hummingbird, which are not covered under the MSHCP.
Five (5) additional special st atus wildlife species have not been observed on the Pr oject site during surveys but have a low to moderate potential to occur : Crotch bumble b ee (Bombus Updated Biological Resources Assessment
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crotchii), southern California legless lizard (Anniella steb binsi), Dulzura pocket mous e (Chaetodipus californicus femoralis), northwestern San Diego pocket mouse (Chaetodipus fallax fallax), and western mastiff bat (foraging) ( Eumops perotis ca lifornicus). Northwestern San Diego pocket mouse is covered under the MSHCP and considered adequately conserved. The remaining four species are not covered under the MSHCP. Crotch bumble bee was previously a candidate for state listing, but its status is currently in litigation. If this species becomes listed, focused surveys and incidental take permitting may be required.
Nesting birds are protected under State and federal laws and h abitat suitable for nesting birds (including raptors) is present within and a round the site. Scheduling Project activities ou tside the nesting season (generally January 1 through September 15) or conducting preconstruction nesting bird clearance surveys and establishing avoidance buffers around any active nests is recommended. If n esting birds are present, an avoidance buffer of 300 to 500 feet (or as recommended by a biologist) should be established around active nests until juvenile birds have fledged and/or a biologist has verified that the nest has become inactive.
The Project site is largely surrounded by scattered existing d evelopment and there is no connectivity between the site and conserved lands to the east (Diamond V alley Lake) and southwest (Santa Ro sa Pla teau, Clevela nd National Forest). Although there may be limited local movement of wildlife across the site, it is not within or adjacent to a wildlife corridor.
An ephemeral blue-line stream is present on the site and inc ludes state waters and wet lands, federal waters, and MSHCP riparian/riverine habitat. All jurisdictional areas onsite will either be impacted by de velopment or i ncorporated i nto the Avoidance/Compatible Use Area. The Avoidance/Compatible Use Area will retain native riparian habitat and natural flows. Regulatory permits from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers ( USACE), Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB), and California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) will be required for impacts to jurisdictional areas. A Determination of Biologically Equivalent or Superior Preservation (DBESP) will be required for impacts to MSHCP riparian/riverine habitat.
Pools or depressions characteristic of vernal habi tat wer e not observed on the site and no wetland or vernal pool plant species were present. No evidence of ponding areas (i.e., cracked soils, tire ruts, etc.) were observed on the site during surveys.
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1.0) INTRODUCTION
This report was prepared by L&L Environmen tal, Inc. (L&L) for Richland Communities. It describes the results o f biological surveys con ducted on a pr oposed residential development site located within the City of Menifee, Riverside County, California. The Project site consists of Assessor’s Parcel Numbers (APNs) 360-300-002, -003, -004, -005, -006, -009, and 360 -350- 001 (totaling ±204.65 acres) and portions of APNs 360-180-009, 360-300-001, -008, 360-350- 019, -022, -023, -024, 360-360-009, -010, -011, and 360-380-004 where offsite improvements are planned (totaling ±4.68 acres).
The 2021 updated assessment consisted of (1) a record s search a nd literature review, conducted to determine the species of conc ern in the Project area and proximity to closest documented special status species observations, (2) field surveys to identify plants and wildlife on the site and assess presence/absence of ha bitat for spec ies of concern , (3) a foc used botanical su rvey, (4 ) a p rotocol bre eding season s urvey f or burrowing o wl, and ( 4) a habitat assessment for riparian birds.
1.1) Project Description
The Project is identified as Golden Meadows (formerly known as Menifee Assemblage), Tract No. 311 94, and con sists of construction of 572 single-family residential l ots and associated roads and infrastructure (Figure 3b). The Project will be constructed in four (4) phases. Offsite impacts include improvements to existing roads and installation of flood control structures. The site plan is p rovided in Appendix E. An En vironmental Impact Rep ort for the Project was published in 2006 (T&B 2006).
The property also inc ludes an Eastern M unicipal Wat er District (EM WD) tank site. The proposed tank site in cludes two large water tanks and an access road. The tanks will serve multiple developments, including Golden Mea dows. The tank site is located within the tract boundary, but it is not within the proposed Project boundary and is not a part of the Project.
The Project includes an Avoidance/Compatible Use Area along the blue-line stream that retains native habitat and natural flows. Open space will also be retained in the northeast corner of the site.
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1.2) Location
The site is l ocated in Paloma Valley, west of the Interstate 215 freeway (I-215), so uth of Newport Road, and east of Murrieta Road (Figure 1). It is located between Wickerd Road to the south and Garbani Road to the north. The site is situated in Sections 1 5 and 16, Township 6 South, Range 3 West, within the USGS Romoland 7.5’ series quadrangle map (Figure 2).
The site is generally bounded a s f ollows: to the west by agricultural lands, Evans Road (unimproved), rural residential areas, and a school; to the ea st by a mixture o f disturbed and relatively un disturbed vacant land, Sherman Road (unimproved), and a Frontier Communications building complex and Haun R oad beyond; to the north by a mixture of disturbed and relatively undisturbed vacant lands, rural resid ential a reas, Garbani Road (unimproved), and residential developments; and to the south by Wickerd Road (u nimproved), and a mix of disturbed and relativ ely undisturbed vacant lands and rural residential areas (Figure 3a).
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Figure 1
Project Vicinity Map
Golden Meadows, TT 31194
City of Menifee, California
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Project Vicinity
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Figure 2
Project Location Map
(USGS Romoland 1979 quadrangle,
Sections 15 & 16, Township 6 South, Range 3 West)
Golden Meadows, TT 31194
City of Menifee, California
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Project Site
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Project Site
Figure 3a
Aerial Photograph
(Photo obtained from Google Earth, February 2018)
Golden Meadows, TT 31194
City of Menifee, California
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Haun Road
Evans Road Garbani Road
Wickerd Road
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Figure 3b
Development Plan
(Plan obtained from Hunsaker & Assoc. Irvine, Inc., 2021)
Golden Meadows, TT 31194
City of Menifee, California
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Water tank site
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1.3) Vegetation and Setting
A review of historical a erial image s (NETRonline 2 021, Go ogle Ea rth 2021) find s that most areas of the site have been disturbed in association with agricultural uses since at least 1938.
These areas are still under cultivation and do not support native habitat communities. Areas of California buckwheat scrub are present in the less disturbed areas on the property, mainly the slopes in the no rtheastern corner . Remnants of c hamise chaparra l are present along the southern site boundary.
An ephemeral drainage feature and mapped blu e-line stream is p resent trending from the southwest/central to the northwest p ortion of the site , as we ll as variou s other jurisdictional features. Much of this area has been impacted by agricultural activities and invasive plants, but limited areas of disturbed and degraded riparian vegetation are present in association with this drainage. No vernal pools or ponding areas were observed onsite.
Land use adjacent to the site includes anthropogenic disturb ances suc h as rural residential development, agricultural areas, unimproved roads, powerline easements, OHV activity, and trash dumping.
Two (2) unimproved roads are present on the pro perty. The first is an unnamed dirt r oad that begins at the eastern terminus of Daniel Road (in the northwestern corner of the site) and exits at the s outheastern corner of the site near the intersection of Wickerd Road and Asc ot Way.
The second is identified as Krubsack Road, which runs north-south through agricultural fields within the roughly west -central portion of the property and connects with Wickerd Road to the south and Daniel Road t o the north. Many OHV trails are al so present on the property , mainly in the n ortheastern cor ner. The 2021 survey found that earthen berms and rock piles had recently been placed on roads and trails to block entrance to the site.
1.4) Soils and Topography
Soils on the Project site were mapped as Wyman loam (WyC2), Vallecitos loam ( VeC2), Porterville clay (PsC ), Yokohl loam (YbC and YbE3), Cajalco fine sandy loam (CaC2 and CaD2), Cajalco rocky fine sandy loam (CbF2), Honcut sandy loam (HnC and HnD2), Las Posas loam (LaD2), and Las Posas rocky loam (LkD2 and LkF3) (NRCS 2021) (Figure 4).
The most common soils mapped for the subj ect property are Wyman loam on the central and western portion of the site (in agricultural areas) a nd Las Posas ro cky loams on vegetated Updated Biological Resources Assessment
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hillsides within the northern and eastern portions of the site. Clay soils are relatively uncommon on th e site, but P orterville c lay is mapped as present near t he so utheastern portion of the property. Soils observed onsite range from mostly sandy-loamy within the agricultural areas to rocky l oamy on the vegetated hillsides. Crypto biotic c rusts are present, but only wit hin less disturbed portions of the site.
Topographically, much of the site is relatively flat and contains open land with low -relief rocky outcrops. Gently to st eeply sloping h ills and ridgelines are pres ent within t he north eastern portion of the property. The site has a combined maximum vertical relief of roughly 220 feet (67 meters) between the highest and lowest points on the property, with elevation ranging f rom approximately 1,500 to 1,720 feet (457 to 524 meters) above mean sea level (AMSL).
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CaC2 = Cajalco fine sandy loam, 2-8% slope, eroded
CaD2 = Cajalco fine sandy loam, 8-15% slope, eroded
CbD2 = Cajalco rocky fine sandy loam, 5-15% slope, eroded CbF2 = Cajalco rocky fine sandy loam, 15-50% slope, eroded CkD2 = Cieneba rocky sandy loam, 8-15% slope, eroded HnC = Honcut sandy loam, 2-8% slope
HnD2 = Honcut sandy loam, 8-15% slope, eroded
LaD2 = Las Posas loam, 8-15% slope, eroded
LaC = Las Posas loam, 2-8% slope
LaC2 = Las Posas loam, 5-8% slope, eroded
LkD2 = Las Posas rocky loam, 8-15% slope, eroded
LkF3 = Las Posas rocky loam, 15-50% slope, severely eroded PsC = Porterville clay
VeC2 = Vallecitos loam, eroded
WyC2 = Wyman loam, eroded
YbC = Yokohl loam, 2-8% slope
YbE3 = Yokohl loam, 8-25% slope, severely eroded
Figure 4
Soils Map
(Photo obtained from Google Earth, February 2016,
USDA Nat. Res. Cons. Serv. SSURGO Data)
Golden Meadows, TT 31194
City of Menifee, California
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2.0) METHODS AND PERSONNEL
2.1) Literature Review
Certain plants and animals have been listed as threatened or endangered under state or federal Endangered Species Ac ts. Other species have not been form ally listed, but d eclining populations or ha bitat availability are reason s for concern regarding their long-term viability.
These species are included in lists compiled by resource management agencies or conservation organizations. In this report, the term “listed” refers to all species that are listed, or candidates for list ing, as thre atened or e ndangered by t he U.S. Fi sh and W ildlife S ervice (USFWS) or California D epartment of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW). “Special status species ” r efers to all species in cluded in one or m ore com pendia o f rare species, b ut n ot listed as threat ened or endangered by USFWS or CDFW.
Pertinent literature was reviewed to identify local occ urrences and habitat requirements o f special status species and communities occurring in the region. Liter ature reviewed included compendia provided by resource agencies ( CDFW 2021a, 2021b), a s earch of the California Natural Diversity Database ( CNDDB; CDFW 2021c) and California Native Plant S ociety Inventory of Rare and Endangered Plants (CNPS 2021) for the P roject topographic quadrangle (Romoland) and ad jacent quadrangles ( Steele Peak, Perris, Lakeview, Lake Elsinore, Winchester, Wildomar, Murrieta, and Bachelor Mountain), and a search of USFWS Information for Planning and Consultation (IPaC; USFWS 2021a) for the P roject site. Reports of previous surveys completed for the site ( L&L 2003-2019) were also revie wed. Informa tion fr om p ast surveys is summarized and included in this report as appropriate.
Potentials for occurrence of plant and wildlife spe cies were evaluated and classified as either absent, not expected, low, moderate, high, or occurs. These classifications are based on the presence an d quality of habitat, g eographic and elevation range of species, proximity to a known occ urrence of a spec ies obtained f rom CNDD B or oth er re liable data, an d field observations. Classifications for individual speci es may b e modif ied based on b iologists’ experience and expert opinion.
Scientific names of plan ts follow Baldwin et al. (2012) with updates from the online Jepson eFlora (Jepson 2021). Scientific names of animals follow Ste bbins (1985), Jameson a nd Peeters (1988), Cornell (2021), and Arnett (2000), with u pdates from academic sour ces.
Current conse rvation st atus o f plant an d wildlife s pecies deter mined from CDFW ( 2021a, Updated Biological Resources Assessment
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2021b). Vegetation community cl assifications follow Sa wyer et al. (2009) with updates from CDFW (2020). State ranks (S ranks) for vegetation communities are from CDFW (2020). Other sources consulted for informati on regarding biological r esources include Brown (199 4), Recon (1985), Schoenherr (1990), and Small (1994).
In this report, the “Project site” or “site” includes all of the Project parcels (±204.65 acres) plus offsite impact areas (±4.68 acres) for a total of ±209.33 acres surveyed. Acreages are based on GIS calculations.
2.2) General Biological and Botanical Survey Methods
L&L biolog ist Guy Bru yea vis ited the Project site from Ma y through November of 2021 to conduct general biological and botanical surveys (Table 1).
Table 1. General Biological and Botanical Survey Dates and Weather Conditions Date Time Weather Wind (mph)
05.21.2021 0545-0845 Clear, 50-56º F 1-6
05.21.2021 1700-1930 Clear, 62-67º F 2-5
05.25.2021 0530-0830 Clear, 57-65º F 0-1
05.31.2021 0530-0830 Marine layer/Clear, 61-73º F 0-4
05.31.2021 1700-1930 Clear, 74-82º F 2-4
06.05.2021 0600-1100 Clear, 74-83º F 0-2
06.07.2021 0600-1000 Clear, 58-67º F 0-3
07.06.2021 0600-0900 Clear, 66-75º F 0-2
07.11.2021 0600-0830 Partly Cloudy, 73-81º F 1-2
08.01.2021 0630-1030 Clear, 76-87º F 1-4
11.08.2021 0800-1200 Clear, 66-75º F 0-3
11.09.2021 0900-1300 Clear, 70-79º F 1-5
A total of about 40.5 person-hours were spent onsite during surveys in 2021. All ha bitat types onsite were visited on foot . The site was surveyed by cond ucting a series of transects across the subj ect proper ty where possible, stopping periodically f or obse rvations and notations. A general habitat map and field notes were completed at the time of the survey. All field surveys were conducted during daylight hours. Digital photographs were taken to record the condition of the site during the present survey.
The methodology used is consi stent w ith recommendations by th e California Native Plant Society (CNPS 2001), CDFW ( 2018, 2000), and USFW S (2000). All plant s pecies observed were identified in the field or c ollected for l ater identification or c onfirmation. All species were recorded in field notes and the locations of special status species were documented using GPS.
Plants of uncertain identity were collected and subsequently identified from keys, descriptions, Updated Biological Resources Assessment
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and illustrations in Baldwin (2012), Abrams (1923, 1944, and 1951), Abrams and Ferris (1960), Munz (1974), and Parker (1999).
Vegetation community mapping of the si te was also verified in 2021. The vegetation mapping from the 2018 biological survey report (L&L 2018a) was used as a ba sis and verified through field observations. Vegetation community classification is consistent with the California Natural Community List (CDFW 2020) and Sawyer et al. (2009).
2.3) Burrowing Owl Survey Methods
Protocol breeding season b urrowing owl surveys were conducted by Mr. Bruyea concurrently with a portion of the general biological and botanical surveys (Table 2).
Table 2. Burrowing Owl Survey Dates and Weather Conditions Date Time Sunrise* Sunset* Weather Wind
(mph)
05.21.2021 0545-0845 0547 -- Clear, 50-56º F 1-6
05.21.2021 1700-1930 -- 1952 Clear, 62-67º F 2-5
05.31.2021 0530-0830 0542 -- Marine layer/Clear, 61-73º F 0-4
05.31.2021 1700-1930 -- 1958 Clear, 74-82º F 2-4
06.05.2021 0600-1100 0541 -- Clear, 74-83º F 0-2
06.07.2021 0600-1000 0541 -- Clear, 58-67º F 0-3
07.06.2021 0600-0900 0547 -- Clear, 66-75º F 0-2
07.11.2021 0600-0830 0550 -- Partly Cloudy, 73-81º F 1-2 *sunrise/sunset times from timeanddate.com
A total of about 25.5 person-hours were spent during burrowing owl surveys in 2021. The s ite was examined for suitable burrow sites and for signs of occup ation by burrowing owl, including pellets, feathers, whitewash, prey remains, and eggshell fragments, as well as individual owls.
A search for potentially suitable burrows wi thin dirt, wood, and rock debris piles, artificially created berms, and other loc ations was conducted during the surveys. T he surveys were concentrated in areas typically associated with burrowing owl habitat, including open areas onsite and areas where California ground squirrel activity (i.e., suitable burrows) was expected.
An add itional 150 -meter (50 0-foot) buffer area su rrounding the site was visually inspected, where possible, in areas identified as potential burrowing owl habitat (Figure 5). Any developed areas were visually surveyed with binoculars due to trespassing concerns on private property.
Transects were walked throughout the property where suitable habitat is present. Coupled with binocular surveys of any re stricted areas, this allow ed for complete visual ground coverage of the survey area. Distance between transects was approximately 15 to 20 meters.
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Per MSHCP protocol for b urrowing owl surv eys (RCA 2006), surveys sho uld be cond ucted during weather that is conducive t o ob serving owl s out side their burro ws a nd detecting burrowing owl sign. Surveys will not be accepted if they a re conducted during rain, high winds (>20 mph), dense fog, or temperatures over 90°F. Surveys should be conducted in the morning one hour before sunrise to two hours after sunrise or in the early evening two (2) hours before sunset t o one (1) hour after sunset. Surveys were conducted during approp riate ho urs and weather conditions (Table 2).
2.4) Nesting Raptor Survey Methods
Concurrently with t he bur rowing owl survey , th e sit e was examined to dete rmine the presence/absence of nesting raptors on the property, in particular white-tailed kite. This survey primarily focused on exa mining trees onsite and within 500 feet of the Project site for evidence of raptor nesting.
2.5) Riparian Bird Habitat Assessment Methods
A habitat assessment for riparian bird species least Bell's vireo, southwestern willow flycatcher, and western ye llow-billed c uckoo was conduc ted by John Konecny of Konecny Biological Services. Mr. Konecny holds USFWS Section 10(a) permit TE837308-7 for southwestern willow flycatcher.
The habitat assessment was conducted on Sept ember 29, 2021 and focused on the riparian vegetation on the site . Weather conditions during the survey were mild with litt le wind and scattered overcast. No call prompting of any species was conducted.
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Figure 5
Burrowing Owl Survey Area
(Photo obtained from Google Earth, August 2021)
Golden Meadows, TT 31194
City of Menifee, California
L&L Environmental, Inc.
BIOLOGICAL AND CULTURAL
INVESTIGATIONS AND MONITORING
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3.0) RESULTS
3.1) Literature Review Results
3.1.1) MSHCP Requirements
The site is located within the area covered by the MSHCP but is not within the Criteria Area.
There is one area of Public/Quasi-Public (PQP) Conserved Lands approximately 0.68 mi les north-northeast of the site. This PQP area is identified as Ringing Rock Archaeologi cal Site under the management of the Riverside County Parks and Open Space District. Other than the Ringing Rock Site, t here are no other PQP or MSHCP Conserved Lands within a mile of the site. The site is not within or near any MSHCP Core Areas or Linkages (Figure 6).
Surveys req uired by the M SHCP are a habitat as sessment to address riparian/riverine and vernal pool habitats and associated species and burrowing owl (RCA 2021). If suitable habitat is present, focused surveys are required.
The MSHCP mapped vegetation layer (1994 baseline) depicts the site as largely agricultural land w ith areas of coastal sa ge scrub, grassland, a nd chaparral . No riparian habitat or Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub is mapped on the parcel in the 1994 baseline (RCA 2021).
3.1.2) Precipitation
Precipitation data was obtain ed f rom the Clark, Sage, a nd Cranston Remote Aut omated Weather St ations (RAWS) (WRCC 2021). The Clark RAWS is located about 16.8 miles north-northwest of the Project site at an elevation of 1,720 feet; Sage RAWS is about 14.7 miles east-southeast of th e s ite at an elevation of 1,516 fe et; Cranston RAWS is about 21.0 mi les east-northeast of the site at an elevation of 1,950 feet (WRCC 2021).
Total precipitation recorded by the Clark, Sage, and Cranston RAWS for the 2021 water year1 was 4.96, 6.19, and 6.75 inches, respectively. Average annual precipitation for the Project area is 10 to 15 inches (WRCC 2018). Precipitation data is provided in Appendix C.
1 A water year is October through September. For example, the 2021 water year is October 2020 through September 2021.
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Figure 6
MSHCP Cores and Linkages
(Riverside County MSHCP)
Golden Meadows, TT 31194
City of Menifee, California
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3.1.3) Previous Surveys
L&L reviewed the results of previous biological surveys of the site, which inclu ded a general biological survey an d a jurisdi ctional delineation in 2 003 (L&L 2 003a, 2003b), spring botanical survey and focused surveys for Qu ino checkerspot butterfly and coastal California gnatcatcher in 2004 (L&L 2004a, 2004b, 2004c), burrowing o wl survey , habitat assessment for riparian birds, and updated jurisdictional delineation in 2005 (L&L 2005a, 2005b, 2005c), burrowing owl survey, focused surveys for least Bell’s vireo and southwestern willow flycatcher, and a h abitat assessment for yellow-billed cuckoo in 2006 (L&L 2006a, 2006b), burrowing owl survey in 2007 (L&L 2007) , s urveys for special status p lants, burrowing owl , and updated jur isdictional delineation in 20 11 (L&L 2011), habitat assessment an d burrowing owl survey in 2013 (L&L 2013), general biological and botanical survey in 2017 (L&L 2017), burrowing owl and nesting raptor surveys and update d j urisdictional del ineation in 2018 (L&L 2018a, 20 18b), and burrowing owl surveys and an updated juri sdictional delineation in 2019 (L&L 2019a, 2019b).
Previous survey results are summarized and incorporated into this report as appropriate.
3.1.4) 2006 Environmental Impact Report
The 2006 Fina l Environmental Impac t Report (EI R) fo r the Project (T&B 2006) includes the following mitigation measures for impacts to biological resources:
4.3-1 TTM No. 31194, Lot #503 (approximately 39.0 acres in the northeastern portion of the property) shall be preserved as open space and shall be cove red by a conservation easement or other mechanism to ens ure permanent preservation, with allowance for required maintenance of fuel modification zones. The conservation easement area shall be shown on the Final Map.
4.3-2 Thirty days prior to grading, a q ualified biologist shall make a determination regarding the presence or absence of the bu rrowing owl. The determination shall be documented in a report to be reviewed and accepted by the County of Riverside. If the species is determined to be present, an d the MSHCP’s stated objectives 1 – 4 for burrowing owl have not yet been met, mitigation shall be required in compliance with the MSHCP, Appendix E which states:
a. If the site contains or is part of an area supportin g less than 35 acres of suitable habitat or the survey reveals that the site and surrounding area supports Updated Biological Resources Assessment
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less than 3 pairs o f burrowing ow ls, then the o n-site burrowing owl s s hall be passively or actively relocated following accepted protocols. b. If the site (including adjacent areas) supp orts 3 or more pairs of burrowing owls, supports greater than 35 acres of suitable habita t and is non -contiguous with MSHCP Conservation Area lands, at l east 90 percent of the area with long-term conservation value and burrowing owl pairs shall be conserved on-site.
4.3-3 Prior to issuance of grading permits, t he applicant shall be required to pay Local Development Mitigation Fees (per County Ordinance No. 4.62.070) for implementation of the MSHCP.
4.3-4 Prior t o issuance of grading permits, the applicant s hall pay fees in accordance with the USFWS-approved HCP, to mitigate the project ’s potentially significant impacts to the Stephens’ kangaroo rat.
4.3-5 If construction activities occur between February 1 and August 31 a nd within 150 feet of suitable nestin g locations, a focused raptor survey will be required pr ior to issuance of grading permits. If active nests are located within the portion of the site t o be disturbed or within 150 feet of the area to be disturbed, mea sures shall be initiated to avoid any impacts to nesting raptors. Measures to avoid impacts will include identifying the loca tion and creat ing a buffer z one around th e tree within which imp acts will be avoided until the juveniles have fledged.
a. The whit e-tailed kite is “fully -protected” by the California Department of Fish and Game. If this sp ecies is documented as nesting on the project s ite during the raptor survey, or it is determined this species will be significantly impacted by development a 2080 permit for “take” shall be required from the CDFG.
4.3-6 Prior to the issuance of grading per mits, the applicant shall submit documentation to the County of Riverside verifying that the nece ssary permits required by the U.S.
Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE), California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG) and Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB) have been obtained. The ACOE has a no net l oss policy which requires that any unavoidable impacts to wetland values and functions be replaced. In addition, the RWQCB will add restrictions to control runoff from the site, require on the site treatment of runoff to improve water quality, and impose Best Management Practices on the construction. It is anticipated that the following measures Updated Biological Resources Assessment
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or similar measures as approved by the ACOE, CDFG, and RWQC B would reduce impacts to ACOE and CDFG jurisdictional areas to a level less than significant:
a. On or off-site repl acement of AC OE juri sdictional water s and wetlands at a ratio no less than 1:1;
b. On or of f-site replacement of CDFG jurisdictional stream bed and associated riparian habitat at a ratio no less than 1:1; and/or
c. Incorporation of design feat ures into the proposed project tha t w ill avoid biological impacts to off -site blue -line streams that ulti mately end up in the Railroad Canyon Reservoir (Canyon Lake).
4.3-7 Individual lot fencing shall be used to restrict access to the on -site wetland areas.
Back yard gates from individual residential lots that open onto the wetland area shall be prohibited. Fencing l ocations and materials shall be shown on the Final Map and approved by the County’s Environmental Programs Department (EPD) pr ior to issuance of building permits. Required fencing shall be installed prior to issuance of occupancy permits.
4.3-8 Ni ght ligh ting during and after project constru ction shall be directed away from onsite wetland areas a nd, except for safety and other r equirements, l ighting shall be limited from the boundaries of onsite wetland areas. In the event that lighting in an area adjacent to the wetland area is necessary, a shield shall be incorporated in project designs to ensure ambient lighting in the wetlan d area is not increased. Lighting plans shall b e a pproved by th e County prior to issuance of building permits. Lighting restrictions and the reasons for such restrictions shall be included in the project’s CC&Rs.
4.3-9 The landscape plans for the project in areas adjacent or tributary to wetland areas shall not include those species listed in the MSHCP as “Plants That Should Be Avo ided Adjacent to The MSHCP Conservati on Area .” The County of Riverside Planning Department shall review and approve all plant material for the project, prior to issuance of building permits. Information regarding the importance of avoiding the listed pla nts, even in front and backyard landscaping, shall be included in sales literature distributed to homeowners. The list of restricted plant materials and the reasons for such restrictions shall be listed in the project’s CC&Rs.
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3.2) Vegetation Communities
Much of the property has been disturbed by current and historical cultivation and past sheep grazing and does not support native habitat. Less disturbed areas are present, primarily in the northeastern portions of the site, with a mixture of disturbed and relatively undisturbed California buckwheat scrub and chamise chaparral. Sparse riparian vegetation and trees are found along the blue-line stream in the northwestern/central portion of the site (Figure 7).
The agricultural fields are dry far med for wh eat. Evidence of widesp read sheep grazing was observed throughout all areas of the site in 2 013. Hillsides c ontaining California buckwheat scrub along the farmland edges, especially to the north and east, had been severely damaged by sheep graz ing. Very few an nuals remained (none in some areas) and many of the perennials had been stripped of ve getation and/or trampled. No evidence of current sheep grazing was observed during surveys in 2017, 2018, 2019, and 2021 and regrowth of native annuals and perennials was observed in the buckwheat scrub areas.
Table 3. Vegetation Communities Present
Vegetation Community
Area Present (acres)
Onsite Offsite Total
California Buckwheat Scrub 41.69 0 41.69
California Buckwheat Scrub/Ruderal 3.18 0 3.18
Chamise Chaparral 2.05 0.18 2.23
Arroyo Willow Thickets and Mulefat Thickets 0.91 0.02 0.93 Agriculture and Disturbed/Ruderal 156.82 4.48 161.30
Total 204.65 4.68 209.33
Table 4. Vegetation Community Impacts
Vegetation Community
Area Impacted (acres)*
Onsite Offsite Total
California Buckwheat Scrub 18.49** 0 18.49**
California Buckwheat Scrub/Ruderal 2.83 0 2.83
Chamise Chaparral 2.05 0.18 2.23
Arroyo Willow Thickets and Mulefat Thickets 0.11 0.02 0.13 Agriculture and Disturbed/Ruderal 152.66 4.48 157.14
Total 176.14 4.68 180.82
*Any discrepancy in totals due to rounding error. **Includes the water tank site. The water tank site is a separate project covered under a separate CEQA process by EMWD and not a part of the Golden Meadows Project.
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3.2.1) California Buckwheat Scrub
In previous reports, this vegetation community was referred to by the older name of Riversidean sage scrub (Holland Element C ode 32700). Under th e m ore rec ent S awyer et al. (2009) classification, this type of coas tal scrub is best cl assified as California buckwheat scrub (Eriogonum fasciculatum Shrubland Alliance). CDFW ra nks t his community as S5 ( secure – common, widespread, and abundant) and it is not considered sensitive.
California buckwheat scrub is present on the northeastern portion of the site on south, west, and east-facing slopes containing numerous rocky outcrops. Native shrubs and other conspi cuous plants commonly observed in these areas include Calif ornia buckw heat ( Eriogonum fasciculatum), Cal ifornia sagebrush ( Artemisia c alifornica), and white sage (Salvia apiana ).
Other conspicuous pl ants include brittlebush (Encelia fari nosa), yellow bush -penstemon (Keckiella antirrhinoides), wishbone bush ( Mirabilis laevis var. crassifolia), sweetbush (Bebbia juncea), and black sage ( Salvia mellifera). Annuals are also ab undant in this community and include natives such as wreath pl ant (Stephanomeria virgata) and western sunflower (Helianthus a nnuus) and non -natives such a s shortpod mustard ( Hirschfeldia incana ), red brome (Bromus rubens), slender wild oat (Avena barbata), and Mediterranean grass (Schismus barbatus).
Open patches can be found throughout portions of th e buckwheat scrub onsite and contain a mixture of native and non -native annuals . Na tives include popcorn flower ( Plagiobothrys species), large flowe r rancher’s fiddleneck (Amsinckia inte rmedia), comm on cryptantha (Cryptantha intermedia), evening primrose (Camissonia species), wild carrot (Daucus pusillus), slender tar weed ( Deinandra fas ciculata), and phacelia ( Phacelia species). Other plants observed include chia (Salvia columbariae), perezia (Acourtia microcephala), hooked navarretia (Navarretia hama ta), sapphire woollystar (Eriastrum sapphirinum), an d fringed spineflower (Chorizanthe fimbriata).
3.2.2) Chamise Chaparral
In previous reports, this vegetation community was referred to by the o lder name of no rthern mixed chaparral (Holland Element Code 37130). Under the more recent Sawyer et a l. (2009) classification, this vegetat ion community is best classified as chamise chap arral (Adenostoma fasciculatum Shrubland Alliance) or chamise–black sage chaparral (Adenostoma fasciculatum– Salvia mellifera Shrubland Alliance). CDFW ranks chamise chaparral as S5 (secure – common, Updated Biological Resources Assessment
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widespread, an d abundant) and chamise-black sage chaparral at S4 (apparently secure – uncommon but not rare). The chaparral on the site is not considered sensitive.
Common species found in the chaparral areas onsite are chamise (Adenostoma fasciculatum), black sa ge, and oth er perennials. A po orly developed unde rstory is usually present in association with chaparral and is characteristic of this vegetation community on the site.
Only smal l patches of remnant chaparral were observed on the site along the southern boundary. The survey in November 2021 found that a portion of the chamise chaparral on the site had been mowed to the ground.
3.2.3) Arroyo Willow Thickets and Mulefat Thickets
In pr evious reports, the r iparian vegetation onsite was referred to by th e older names of southern arroyo willow riparian (Holland Element Code 61320), mulefat scrub (Holland Element Code 63310), a nd disturbed wetland (Holland Element Code 11200). U nder the mo re recent Sawyer et al. (2009) classification, this vegetation community is best classified as arroyo willow thickets ( Salix lasiolepis Shrubland Alliance) and m ulefat thickets ( Baccharis sali cifolia Shrubland Alliance). CDFW ranks arroyo willow thickets as S4 (apparently secure – uncommon but not rare ); however, it is considered sensitive. Mulefat thickets are r anked as S5 (secure – common, widespread, and abundant) and not considered sensitive.
Arroyo willow thickets and mulefat thickets are dependent on the presence of at least periodic surface or subsurface water. The northwestern portion of the site contains a degraded blue-line stream sparsely inhabited by arroyo willow (Salix lasiolepis), mulefat (Baccharis salicifolia), or a mix of the two. A si ngle Fremont cottonwo od tree (Populus fremontii ssp. fremontii), five southern California black walnut trees (Juglans californica), black willow (Salix gooddingii), and scattered blue e lderberry (Sambucus nigra ssp. cerulea) and non-native tamarisks (Tamarix species) are also present . The u nderstory is dominated by native and n on-native annuals, including ( but not limited to) s hortpod mu stard, western sunflower, large-flowered rancher’s fiddleneck, Spanish clover (Acmispon americanus), wild ra dish (Raphanus sativus), mayweed (Anthemis cotula ), prickly lett uce (Lactuca serr iola), and non-native grass es, including wheat (Triticum aestivum) and oat (Avena species).
Surface water was not observed within any of the onsite drainage features during the surveys.
Over the course of surveys since 2003, it has been noted that the density and health of riparian Updated Biological Resources Assessment
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shrubs and trees appears to be declining. Over time, some areas of the streambed and gaps in riparian vegetation have been incorporated into the surrounding agricultural fields.
3.2.4) Agriculture and Disturbed/Ruderal
In previous reports, agricultural fields and disturbed/ruderal areas onsite were referred to by the older designations of Holland Element Code s 18300 and 11300. Agricult ure is not incl uded under t he more rece nt Saw yer et a l. (2009) class ification. D isturbed/ruderal a reas that are strongly d ominated by annual non -natives may be classified a s semi-natural stands, s uch as Brassica (nigra) and Other Mustards Semi-natural Herbaceous S tands or Bromus ruben s— Schismus barbatus Semi-natural Herba ceous Stand s. These are not co nsidered s ensitive vegetation communities.
The majority of the site is under cultivation and consists of dry-farmed wheat crops. Invasive plants are found within farmed portions of the site, and include lamb’s quarters (Chenopodium murale), calabazilla (Cucurbita foetidissima), and knotweed (Polygonum aviculare).
Disturbed habitat incl udes unvegetated areas (such as roads ) and areas that contain mostly non-native plant spec ies, including ornamentals and ruderal invasives. Some non-native and weedy spe cies have in vaded thes e areas, inclu ding short -pod mustard, red brome , red stem filaree (Erodium cicutarium), and va rious non-native grasses. Other non-native plant species observed in these areas include horehound ( Marrubium vulgare), Rus sian thistle ( Salsola tragus), and tumbling pigweed (Amaranthus albus).
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Figure 7
Vegetation Community Map
(Photo obtained from Google Earth, February 2016)
Golden Meadows, TT 31194
City of Menifee, California
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3.3) Plant Species
A total of 127 plant species were o bserved onsite during biological surveys conducted by L&L from 2003 through 2021. Of the 127 plant species present, 46 (36 percent) are non-natives. A list of all pl ant species identified onsite during previous and current surveys is included in Appendix A.
No state or federally listed plants were observed during surveys and the Project site is not within USFWS designated critical habitat for any listed plant species. Two special status plant species were observed on the site dur ing surveys, long-spined spineflower (Chorizanthe polygonoides var. longispina) and southern California black walnut ( Juglans californica). Details of special status plant observations are provided in Table 5 and locations are mapped on Figure 8.
Table 5. Special Status Plant Species Observations
Species Date GPS Coordinates
(Decimal Degrees)
Number
Detected
Elevation
(feet)
Long-spined spineflower
Chorizanthe polygonoides var. longispina 05.12.2017 33.655304, -117.187238 2 ~1600 Southern California black walnut
Juglans californica
09.22.2005
11.08.2021 33.653919, -117.192902 1 1517
09.22.2005
11.08.2021 33.653955, -117.192924 1 1518
11.08.2021 33.654018, -117.193226 1 1519
11.08.2021 33.653468, -117.192879 1 1517
11.08.2021 33.652603, -117.192823 1 1522
Long-spined spineflower is an annual herb in the Polygonaceae (Buckwheat) family. It is found in c haparral, c oastal s crub, meadows and seeps, v alley and foot hill grassla nds, and vernal pools at 100 to 5,020 feet elevation. It flowers from April through July. This species is found in Riverside, Orange, and San Diego Counties and Baja California, Mexico (CNPS 2021).
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This species is not state or federally list ed as threatened or endangered. It has a California Rare Plant Rank (CRPR) of 1B. 2 (rare or endangered in California and elsewhere, moderately threatened in California). It is a cov ered species under the MSHCP and considered adequately conserved.
Long-spined spineflower was observed on the site in 2 017. Two (2) plants were observed on clay soil s within California buckwheat scrub in the nort heast portion of the sit e along an east-west ridgeline. This area has been impacted by OHV use and the species has not been observed during subsequent surveys. Long-spined spineflower has also been documented by the CNDDB (Element Occurrence #57) on the east-central portion of the s ite. This record is from 2004 and estimates at least 100,000 plants on five acres of the site. It was not observed in this location during L&L surveys.
Southern California black walnut is a deciduous tree in the Juglandaceae (Walnut) family. It is found in chaparral, cismontane woodland, coastal scrub, and riparian woodland at 165 to 2,955 feet eleva tion. It is endem ic to California and f ound in portions of southern, c entral, and northern California (CNPS 2021).
This species is not state or federally listed as threatened or endangered. It has a CRPR of 4.2 (limited distribution , modera tely threate ned i n California). It is a cover ed spe cies under the MSHCP and considered adequately conserved.
Five (5) southern California black walnut trees were observed in the riparian area in the cen tral portion of the site. Representative photos are provided in Appendix D.
Three (3) additional special status plant species have a low to moderate or moderate potential to occur on the P roject site but not been observed during surveys (see Appendix B) . These species are:
• smooth tarplant (Centromadia pungens ssp. laevis ; CRPR 1B.1 [rare or endangered in California and elsewhere, seriously threatened in California]), • Parry’s spineflower (Chorizanthe parryi var. parryi; CRPR 1B.1), and • small-flowered morning-glory (Convolvulus simulans; CRPR 4.2).
These th ree (3) species a re all covered under the MSHCP and considered ade quately conserved.
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3.3.1) Trees
There is a single immature coast live oak tree (Quercus agrifolia) present on the site within the riparian area . Other n ative trees on the site are blue eld erberry, south ern California black walnut, Fremo nt c ottonwood, arroyo willow , and black willow . Non-native and escaped ornamental trees on the s ite include Peruvian pepper tree (Schinus molle ), eucalyptus, tree tobacco (Nicotiana glauca), and tamarisk. The City ma y regulate removal or replacem ent of trees and a tree survey may be required.
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Figure 8
Special Status Plant
Observations
(Photo obtained from Google Earth, August 2021)
Golden Meadows, TT 31194
City of Menifee, California
L&L Environmental, Inc.
BIOLOGICAL AND CULTURAL
INVESTIGATIONS AND MONITORING
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3.4) Wildlife Species
A total of 85 vertebrate wildlife species, plus domestic dog, have been detected during L&L’s biological survey s of the s ite from 20 03 through 202 1. An additional 15 common butterfly species were observed (during Quino checkerspot butterfly survey s in 2004) but this does not represent a comprehensive list of insects present. A list of all wildlife species identified onsite is provided in Appendix A. Details of listed and special status species observations are provided in Table 6 and observations are mapped on Figure 9. CNDDB forms for 2021 observations are included in Appendix E.
Table 6. Listed and Special Status Wildlife Species Observations Species Date GPS Coordinates
(Decimal Degrees)
Number
Detected
Elevation
(feet)
Coast horned lizard
Phrynosoma blainvillii
04.26.2011 33.655640, -117.188980 1 1723
2004* -- -- --
Orange-throated whiptail
Aspidoscelis hyperythra 2004* -- -- --
Coastal (western) whiptail
Aspidoscelis tigris stejnegeri
2005* -- -- --
2004*
Raptor nest site 2013, 2017,
2018, 2019 33.652749, -117.192797 1 nest
(inactive) 1520
Cooper’s hawk
Accipiter cooperii
06.07.2021 33.653876, -117.193126 1 1518
05.21.2021 33.653050, -117.192942 1 1522
2007* -- -- --
2005 33.652173, -117.191589 2 1524
2004* -- -- --
Northern harrier
Circus hudsonius
2013* -- -- --
2011* -- -- --
2004* -- -- --
White-tailed kite
Elanus leucurus
04.26.2011 33.653036, -117.191520 1 Fly over
2005 33.652143, -117.193236 1 1523
2005 33.655034, -117.194991 1 1508
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Species Date GPS Coordinates
(Decimal Degrees)
Number
Detected
Elevation
(feet)
California horned lark
Eremophila alpestris actia
07.06.2021 33.649724, -117.189071 Several 1542
06.05.2021
05.21.2021 33.650884, -117.185290 Several 1558
05.25.2021 33.651187, -117.197238 Several 1537
05.28.2019 33.653331, -117.191005 Several 1524
04.16.2019 33.650844, -117.185067 Several 1557
06.14.2018 33.653079, -117.191911 Several 1520
05.24.2018 33.650510, -117.185130 Several 1548
04.25.2017 33.653816, -117.188586 Several 1556
04.08.2017 33.653324, -117.194038 Several 1519
04.01.2017 33.652212, -117.186278 Several 1560
09.17.2013 33.651900, -117.186140 20+ 1561
2004* -- -- --
07.2003* -- -- --
Great egret
Ardea alba 2004* -- -- --
Great blue heron
Ardea herodias
04.01.2017 33.655683, -117.194971 1 Fly over
2005* -- -- --
Lawrence’s goldfinch
Spinus lawrencei 2004* -- - --
Loggerhead shrike
Lanius ludovicianus 2005 33.654408, -117.193684 1 1517
California thrasher
Toxostoma redivivum
2005* -- -- --
2004* -- -- --
Southern California rufous-
crowned sparrow
Aimophila ruficeps canescens
2004* -- -- --
Bell's sage sparrow
Artemisiospiza belli belli 2004* -- -- --
Nuttall's woodpecker
Dryobates nuttallii 07.06.2021 33.653838, -117.193080 1 male 1517 Updated Biological Resources Assessment
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Species Date GPS Coordinates
(Decimal Degrees)
Number
Detected
Elevation
(feet)
Coastal California gnatcatcher
Polioptila californica californica
06.07.2021
05.31.2021 33.654966, -117.184909 2 males
1 female 1643
04.16.2019 33.655093, -117.189888 1 1629
03.11.20191 33.655673, -117.184620 1 1557
05.24.2018 33.655112, -117.185740 2 (a pair) 1576
04.01.2017 33.655336, -117.190141 1 male 1621
03.28.2017 33.654170, -117.185007 1 male 1656
03.28.20172 33.655604, -117.184969 2 (a pair) 1576
04.29.2011 33.65529, -117.19003 2 (a pair) 1637
04.26.2011 33.65548, -117.19102 1 male 1557
04.19.2004 33.656002, -117.192037
(just offsite)
Active
nest 1547
04.04.2004 33.655400, -117.190183 Active
nest 1624
04.04.2004 33.651783, -117.184550 Active
nest 1627
Burrowing owl
Athene cunicularia 05.30.2018 33.650610, -117.188668 1 adult 1 burrow 1536
Wrentit
Chamaea fasciata
07.11.2021 33.651355, -117.184692 1 1610
05.31.2021 33.655169, -117.188866 1 1672
07.2003* -- -- --
Costa’s hummingbird
Calypte costae
2011* -- -- --
2004* -- -- --
Rufous hummingbird
Selasphorus rufus 2004* -- -- --
San Diego black-tailed jackrabbit
Lepus californium bennettii
05.25.2021 33.653599, -117.188042 1 1563
06.14.2018 33.654478, -117.193719 1 1512
03.28.20173 33.654645, -117.185019 2 1650
04.01.2017 33.654137, -117.187498 2 1583
2013 33.655294, -117.190818 1 1563
2013 33.651907, -117.188694 1 1545
2013 33.649095, -117.188265 1 1570
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Species Date GPS Coordinates
(Decimal Degrees)
Number
Detected
Elevation
(feet)
San Diego black-tailed jackrabbit
Lepus californium bennettii
(continued)
2013 33.649251, -117.179982 (offsite) 1 1513
04.26.2011 33.649020, -117.188010 1 1579
04.26.2011 33.651790, -117.188670 1 1546
04.26.2011 33.655230, -117.190810 1 1557
04.26.2011 33.655703, -117.186478 1 1661
04.26.2011 33.654188, -117.184800 1 1667
04.26.2011 33.652306, -117.184658 1 1632
04.26.2011 33.654389, -117.186578 1 1607
04.26.2011 33.654851, -117.190446 1 1592
04.26.2011 33.655064, -117.189181 1 1657
04.26.2011 33.655727, -117.185042 1 1570
2004* -- -- --
*Details of observations are not av ailable. 1. Coastal Ca lifornia g natcatcher detected during unrelated survey of adjacent property. 2. Coastal California gnatcatcher was also detected in the same approximate areas on 04.08.2017, 04.25.2017, and 05.06.2017. These ar e likely the sa me individuals previously detected in th e area. 3. Black-tailed jackrabbit was also detected in the same approximate areas on 04.08.2017 and 05.06.2017; number of individuals was not determined.
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Figure 9
Special Status Wildlife
Observations (2003-2021)
(Photo obtained from Google Earth, August 2021)
Golden Meadows, TT 31194
City of Menifee, California
L&L Environmental, Inc.
BIOLOGICAL AND CULTURAL
INVESTIGATIONS AND MONITORING
RLCC-03-187
December 2021
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3.4.1) Listed and Fully Protected Wildlife
Biological surveys conducted on the Project site by L&L from 2003 to 2021 detected two listed or fully protected wildlife species on the site, coastal California gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica californica) and white-tailed kite (Elanus leucurus), discussed below.
Two other listed species have not been observed on the Project site during surveys but have a moderate or high potential t o occur , Stephens’ kangaroo rat (Dipodomys stephensii ) and tricolored blackbird (Agelaius tricolor) (see Appendix B).
Stephens’ kangaroo rat is federally listed as endangered and state listed as threatened. Based on potentially suitable habitat and mult iple docume nted occurrences in the Project vicinity (CDFDW 2021c), this species has a high potential to occur on the site. Stephens’ kangaroo rat is a covered spec ies under the MSHCP an d considered adequately conserved . Focused trapping surveys for this species are not required by the MSHCP.
Tricolored blackbird is state listed as threatened. Based on potentially suitable foraging habitat and several eBird records (eBird 2021) in the Project vicinity, this species has a low to moderate potential to forage on the site, but there is no suitable nesting habitat. Tricolored blackbird is a covered species under the MSHCP and considered adequately conserved.
Coastal California Gnatcatcher
Coastal California gnatcatcher is federally listed as threatened and a CDFW Species of Special Concern. Coastal Californ ia gna tcatcher is a co vered species under the MSHCP and considered adequately conser ved. Focused surveys for this spe cies are not requir ed by the MSHCP; however the MSHCP limits disturbance to outside the nesting season.
Surveys from 2004 to 2021 have documented coastal California gnatcatchers on the Project site (Table 6). Nesting was observed in 2004 and breeding pairs were prese nt in 2011, 2017, and 2018. Coastal California gnatc atchers were observed in 2021 and, a lthough nesting was not observed, it is likely. All o bservations were in the California buckwheat scrub habitat in the northeastern portion of the site (Figure 9).
White-tailed Kite
White-tailed kite ( Elanus leucurus) is a CDFW Fully Prote cted speci es. The classification of Fully Protected was California’s initial effort to identify and protect rare wildlife species. With a few exceptions, Fully Pr otected species have subseq uently been lis ted under th e California Updated Biological Resources Assessment
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and/or Federal Endangered Species Acts. One of the exceptions is white -tailed kite, which is not state or federally listed, but retains its Fully Protected status. White-tailed kite is a covered species under the MSHCP and considered adequately conserved.
White-tailed kite forages in open g rasslands, farmlands, meadows, a nd wetlands. Nests are located near foraging areas in substantial groves of dense, broad -leafed trees. Nests are built near the top of oaks, willows, or other trees, usually between 20 to 1 00 feet above the ground.
The nest is composed o f loosely piled sticks, lined with grass, straw, or rootlets. White-tailed kite breeds from February to October, with a peak from May to August (Zeiner et al. 1990).
The CNDDB (CDFW 2021c) has documented oc currences of five (5 ) white -tailed kite nest s within 10 miles of the Project site (Figure 10):
Occurrence 38 is app roximately 9.3 m iles south -southwest of the Project site. T he occurrence is located at the S anta Rosa Pla teau Preserve within oak savannah a nd native grassland at an elevation of 1,950 feet. Successful nesting was last documented in 1988 and 1989. Google Earth images show undisturbed habitat present in that area and the occurrence is presumed extant.
Occurrence 39 is approximately 9.2 miles southwest of the Project site. The occurrence is described as loca ted on p rivate land between two par cels of Santa Rosa Plat eau Preserve property. The habitat is oa k savannah and native grassland at an elevation of 1,820 feet. The nest was last observed in 1989 ( active nest, outcome un known) and noted as threatened by proposed development. Examination of Google Earth images shows undisturbed habitat present in that area. The occurrence is presumed extant.
Occurrence 62 is approximately 7.5 miles southeast of the Project site in Murrieta. The occurrence is located in southern riparian scrub habitat at an elevation of 1,240 f eet.
The record notes that the area was proposed for development, and Google Earth images now s how the occurrence within a narrow area of ha bitat surr ounded by residential developments. A pair of white-tailed kites was last observed in 1999. Th e occurrence is presumed extant but may have been extirpated by development.
Occurrence 112 is approximately 9.4 miles west -northwest of the Project site and ju st north of L ake Elsinore. The occurrence is lo cated in willow ripari an woodland a t an elevation of 1,258 feet. Successful nesting was documente d in 2006. Google Ea rth images show undisturbed habitat at that location and the occurrence is presumed extant.
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Occurrence 115 is approximately 7.1 miles northeast of the Project site. The occurrence is located in a small grove of trees associated with a rural residence in Winchester, north of Diam ond Valley Lak e. Agricultural fields a re als o pre sent in the area. Successfu l nesting was do cumented in 2005 and 2006. Google Earth im ages show tre es and agricultural fields re main in the area, as described i n th e CNDDB record. The occurrence is presumed extant.
Two white-tailed kite s were observed on the Project si te in 2005 an d on e in 2011 (Table 6 , Figure 9). No kites have been observ ed during more recent surveys. Although thi s species may forage on the Project site and potentially suitable nesting habitat is present, no nesting has been observed there. A raptor nest was present in a eucalyptus tree in the riparian area on the site but has been observed during surveys to be either inactive or potentially associated with red-tailed hawk (Buteo jamaicensis) nesting. The 2021 survey found that this nest is no longer present.
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Numbers refer to the CNDDB Element Occurrence.
Figure 10
White-tailed Kite Nests within
10 Miles of the Project Site
(Photo obtained from Google Earth, August 2021)
Golden Meadows, TT 31194
City of Menifee, California
L&L Environmental, Inc.
BIOLOGICAL AND CULTURAL
INVESTIGATIONS AND MONITORING
RLCC-03-187
December 2021
Project Site
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Fairy Shrimp
The two l isted fairy shrimp s pecies kno wn from th e area are vernal pool fairy shrimp (Branchinecta lynchi), a fe derally li sted threatened specie s, and Riverside fairy shrimp (Streptocephalus woottoni), a federally listed endangered species. Both species are covered by the MSHCP and surveys are required where suitable habitat is present.
Vernal pool f airy shrimp is r estricted to seasonal pools and prefers cool-water pools that are often short lived. Riverside fairy shrimp is restricted to deep seaso nal vernal pools, ephemeral ponds, stock pon ds, and ot her human-modified depressions . Riverside fairy shrimp prefer s warm-water pools that remain filled for extended periods of time (Dudek 2003).
Pools or depressions characteristic of vernal habi tat were not observed on the site and no wetland or vernal pool plant species were present. No evidence of ponding areas (i.e., cracked soils, tire ruts, etc.) were observed on the site during surveys. No fairy shrimp or potential fairy shrimp habitat was observed during current or previous surveys.
Riparian Birds
Least Bel l’s v ireo ( Vireo b ellii pusillus) is state and federally lis ted as e ndangered. It is a covered sp ecies under the MSHCP and consid ered adequately conserved, but surveys are required in suitable habitat as described in MSHCP Section 6.1.2 and mitigation is required if the species is present. This species is migratory and breeds in California, arriving in March and departing by September or October. Males establi sh and defend territori es in ri parian woodlands and riparian scrub. Territory size ra nges from 0.5 t o 7.5 acres (USFWS 1998).
Dense shrub cover is required for nesting.
There are two (2) CNDDB documented occurrences of nesting least Bell’s vireo within five (5) miles of the site. The closest is Element Occurrence (EO) #412, located along the San Jacinto River just south of Canyon Lake, 4.2 miles to the west-northwest of the site. This occurrence is from 2002 and documents one (1) least Bell’s vireo territory.
EO # 407 is 4.5 miles west-northwest of t he site along the San Jacinto River east of La ke Elsinore. This occurrence had one least Bell’s vireo territory in 2003, two territories in 2004 and 2005, one singing male in 20 06, six territories and two pairs with fledglings in 2009, and nine territories in 2010.
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Southwestern willow fl ycatcher (Empidonax traillii extimus) is state and f ederally l isted as endangered. It is a covered spe cies under the MSHCP and considered adequately conserved, but surveys are required in suitable habitat as described in MSHCP Section 6.1.2 and mitigation is r equired if the species is present. This species in habits dense riparian forests with ample numbers of willows and other associated trees and shrubs.
Western yello w-billed cuckoo ( Coccyzus americanus o ccidentalis) is feder ally listed as threatened a nd state li sted as e ndangered. I t is a covered species under the MSH CP and considered adequately conserved, but surveys are required in suitable habitat as described in MSHCP Section 6.1.2 and mitigation is required if the species is present. This species inhabits extensive riparian thickets or forests with dense, low-level or understory foliage and abutting on slow-moving watercourses, backwaters, or seeps.
There are no CNDDB documented occurrences of nesting southwestern w illow f lycatcher or western yellow-billed cuckoo within five (5) miles of the site.
The habitat a ssessment f ound tha t riparian vegetation on the site is distributed intermittently along a linear ar ea that is approximately 1,500-feet long (Figure 7). The ripari an area is no more than two or three shrubs across at its widest points and surrounded by agricultural fields.
The understory is poorly developed and has several introduced species. Representative photos are included in Appendix D.
No least Bell’s vireo, southwestern willow flycatcher, or western yellow-billed cuckoo have been incidentally detected during surveys. Riparian vegetation onsite is scattered and degraded, the understory is poorly developed, and the streambed does not have persistent water flow. Typical habitat to support least Bell’s vireo, southwestern willow flycatcher, and yellow-billed cuckoo is not present and these species are considered absent from the site.
Quino Checkerspot Butterfly
Quino checkerspot butterfly (Euphydryas editha quin o) is federally listed as endangered. No adults, larvae, or pupae were observed onsite during focused surveys in 2004, al though potentially suitable habitat and larval host and nectaring plant species are present. This species has not been incidentally observed during any subsequent surveys. Quino checkerspot butterfly is a covered species un der the MSH CP and cons idered adequately conserved . Focused surveys are not required by the MSHCP.
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3.4.2) Special Status Wildlife
In add ition to coastal California gnatcatcher and white-tailed ki te, discussed above, biological surveys cond ucted on the Project site by L&L from 200 3 to 2021 detected 19 special stat us wildlife species on the site:
• orange-throated whiptail (Aspidoscelis hyperythra; CDFW Watch List), • coastal (western) whiptail ( Aspidoscelis tigris stej negeri; CDF W Species of Special Concern),
• coast horned lizard (Phrynosoma blainvillii; CDFW Species of Special Concern), • Cooper’s hawk (Accipiter cooperi; CDFW Watch List),
• southern California rufous-crowned sparrow ( Aimophila ruficeps canescens; CDFW Watch List species),
• great egret (Ardea alba; CDFW Special Animal),
• great blue heron (fly over) (Ardea herodias; CDFW Special Animal), • Bell’s sage sparrow ( Artemisiospiza belli belli; USFWS Bird of Conservation Concern , CDFW Watch List species),
• burrowing owl ( Athene cunicularia, USFWS Bi rd of Conservation Concern , CDFW Species of Special Concern),
• Costa’s hummingbird (Calypte costae; USFWS Bird of Conservation Concern , CDFW Special Animal),
• wrentit (Chamaea fasciata; USFWS Bird of Conservation Concern), • northern harrier (Circus cyaneus; CDFW Species of Special Concern), • Nuttall’s woodpecker (Dryobates nuttallii; USFWS Bird of Conservation Concern), • California horned lark (Eremophila alpestris actia; CDFW Watch List), • loggerhead shrike (Lanius ludovicianus; USFWS Bird of Conservation Con cern, CDFW Species of Special Concern),
• rufous hummingbird (Selasphorus rufus; USFWS Bird of Conservation Concern, CDFW Special Animal),
• Lawrence’s goldfinch (Spinus lawrencei; USFWS Bird of Conservat ion Concern, CDFW Special Animal),
• California thrasher (Toxostoma redivivum; USFWS Bird of Conservation Concern), and • San Diego black-tailed j ackrabbit ( Lepus ca lifornicus bennettii; CDFW Species of Special Concern).
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All of these species are covered under the MSHCP and considered adequately conserved, with the exception of great egret, Costa’s humm ingbird, wrentit, Nuttall’s woodpecker, rufous hummingbird, Lawrence’s goldfinch, and California thrasher, which are not covered under the MSHCP. Burrowing owl is discussed bel ow. Special status species o bservations are listed in Table 6 and mapped on Figure 9.
Five (5) additional special status wildlife species have a low to moderate potential to occur on the Proj ect si te but have not been observed during L&L surveys (see Ap pendix B) . These species are:
• Crotch bumble bee (Bombus crotchii; CDFW Special Animal2), • southern California legless lizard (Anniella s tebbinsi; CDFW Species of Special Concern),
• Dulzura pocke t mouse (Chaetodipus calif ornicus femoralis; CDFW Species of S pecial Concern),
• northwestern San Di ego pocket mouse ( Chaetodipus fal lax fallax ; CDFW Spe cies of Special Concern), and
• western mastiff b at (foraging) ( Eumops perotis californicus ; CDFW Species o f Special Concern).
Northwestern San Die go p ocket mouse is covered under the MSHCP and consi dered adequately conserved. The remaining four species are not covered under the MSHCP.
Burrowing Owl
Burrowing owl (Athene cunicularia) is protected under the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act and California Fish and Game C ode and is a CDFW Species of Spec ial Concern. It is a small, ground-dwelling owl found in open dry grassland, desert, or shrubland areas and in uncultivated agricultural areas, rangelands, and other open areas with low-growing vegetation.
Burrows are an e ssential element of burrowing owl habitat. Although the burrowing owl is capable of excavating its own burrows in soft soils, i t typically modifies and inhabits abandoned
2 Crotch bumble bee was previously a candidate for state listing, but the Sacramento Superior Court ruled that insects are not eligible for listing u nder the California Endangered Spec ies Act: Almond Alliance o f California v . Califor nia De partment of Fish and Wildlife, Sacrame nto Superi or Cou rt No. 34-2019- 80003216 (Nov. 13, 20 20). The California Fish and Game Commis sion filed an intent to appea l th is decision in Febr uary 2021. The st atus of this species may be aff ected by subsequent litigation or changes to regulations.
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burrows of small mammals, such as ground squirrels and pocket gophers. The burrowing owl has also been known t o use man-made structures such as cement culverts, debris piles, and other artificial burrows.
Occupancy of burrowing owl habitat can be verified at a site by observation of at least one (1) owl o r sign o f owl (molted f eathers, cas t pellets, prey remains, eggshell f ragments, or excrement) at or near a burrow entrance. A site is considered occup ied if at least one (1) owl has been identified onsite in the past t hree (3) years, because (if undist urbed) burrowing owls exhibit high site fidelity (CDFG 2012, CBOC 1993).
The site has suitable burrowing owl habitat. Focused surveys for burrowing owl in 2005, 2006, 2007, 2011, and 2013 did not detect burrowing owls utilizing the site. No burrowing owl or sign was observed during 2017 general biological surveys.
Focused surveys in 2018 observed a single adult burrowing owl onsite and one (1) burrow with signs of occupation (Table 6, Figure 9). The owl was observed on May 30, 2018. The occupied burrow was found very close to where the owl was observed. Pellets, scat, feathers, owl tracks, and pieces of sh redded cloth were ob served at the burrow entrance. The burrow wa s monitored during subsequent site visits, but there were no add itional observations of burrowing owl adult s or j uveniles. It was not determine d if the owl was usi ng the burrow for nesti ng.
Coyote a nd/or dog t racks were observed around the burr ow, but th e burrow itself was not disturbed and there were no signs that o wls had been predated. No other active burrows or burrowing owls were observed during surveys in 2018.
Focused surveys in 2019 did not detect any burrowing owl, occupied burrows, or owl sign. The agricultural fields on the site, including the site of the 2018 burrow observation, had tall, dense non-native vegetation at that time, which created unsuitable conditions for burrowing owl. Thick vegetation was also present at the burrow site in 2021, unt il the agricultural fields were mowed (sometime between August and November surveys).
No burrowing owls, owl sig n (pellets, scat, feather s, tracks, et c.), or occupied burrows were observed onsite during the 2021 protocol breeding season survey. No owls or owl sign were observed at the 2018 burrow site in No vember 2021 after the agricultural fields were mowed.
Potentially suitable bu rrowing owl habitat is present o n th e site, including small mammal burrows. Potentially suitable habitat is also present within the 150-meter buffer area (Figure 5), but no owls, owl sign, or occupied burrows were observed in the buffer.
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There are 47 CNDDB docum ented occurrences of bur rowing owl wi thin five (5) miles of the Project site (CDFW 2021c). These occurrences date between 1998 and 2016.
Because suitable habitat is present, the MSHCP requires a preconstruction clearance survey for burrowing owl within 30 days prior to the start of site disturbance. If burrowing owls are found on the site at that time, additional mitigation is required under the MSHCP (see Section 6.10).
Nesting Birds
There i s habi tat suitable for n esting birds (inc luding rap tors) withi n and adjacent to the site .
Nesting birds may utilize trees, shrubs, and other vegetation, and open ground on and adjacent to the site for nesting. Some relatively large eucalyptus trees are present on the western portion of the site and along the western boundary alon g Eva ns Ro ad. Red-tailed hawks ( Buteo jamaicensis) have been observed onsite and may be utilizing the trees for nesting.
A potential (inactive) raptor nest site was found in a large eucalyptus tree on the site in 2013. It was located in a eucalyptus tree in th e west-central portion of the site (Table 6, Figure 9). No raptors were observed utilizing the nest site during surveys in 2013, 2017, 2018, and 2019. The 2021 survey found that the nest was no longer present and likely fell from the tree.
3.4.3) Wildlife Corridor
Wildlife corridors link together areas of suitable w ildlife habitat that are otherwise separated by rugged terrain, changes in vegetation, or human disturbance. The fragmentation of open space areas by urbanization c reates is olated “islands” of wildlife hab itat. In the ab sence of habitat linkages that all ow movement to adjoining open space areas, various studies have concluded that s ome wildlife species, especially larger and more mobile mammals, will n ot likely persist over time in fragme nted or isolated h abitat ar eas because movement barriers prohibit th e infusion of new individuals and genetic variation.
Wildlife movement activities usually fa ll into on e of three movement categories: dispersal (e.g., juvenile ani mals dispersing from na tal areas or indiv iduals extending their range), seasonal migration, and movements r elated to home range activities (e .g., foraging for food or wate r, defending territories, or searching for mates, breeding areas, or cover).
Drainages often serve as wildlife corridors and travel routes; however, the riparian vegetation on the site is not continuous. The site is largely surrounded by scattered existing development and Updated Biological Resources Assessment
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there is no connectivity between the site and conserved lands to t he east (Diamond V alley Lake) and southwest (Santa Rosa Plateau, Cleveland National Forest).
The California Essential Habitat Connectivity Project (CDFW 2021d) maps the Project site and surrounding areas as “limited co nnectivity opportun ity.” Although the re may be limited local movement of wildlife on and across the site, it is not within or adjacent to a wild life corridor or potential corridor.
3.5) Jurisdictional Waters/Wetlands and MSHCP Riparian/Riverine and Vernal Pool Habitat Under MSHCP Volume 1, Section 6.1.2, areas associated with wetland and streambed systems must be evaluated for consideration as riparian/riverine or vernal pool habitat. Riparian/riverine areas are defined within the MSHCP as:
“. . . lands whi ch cont ain Habitat d ominated by t rees, sh rubs, persi stent emergents, or emergent mosses and lichen s, whic h occ ur close t o or wh ich depend upon soil moisture from a nearby fresh water source; or areas with fresh water flow during all or a portion of the year.”
Vernal pools are defined within the MSHCP as:
“. . . season al wetlands that occur in d epression area s that have wetl ands indicators of all three parameters (soils, vegetati on an d hydrology) during th e wetter portion of the growing season but n ormally la ck wetlands indic ators of hydrology and/ or veg etation during t he drier portion of the gro wing se ason.
Obligate hydrophytes and f acultative we tlands plant species are normally dominant during the wetter portion of the growing season, while upland species (annuals) may be dominant during the drier portion of the growing season. . .” An ephemeral drainage is present on the s ite and ma pped as a USGS blue-line stream (Figure 11). This drainage includes riparian vegetation such as arroyo willow, Fremont cottonwood, and mulefat (see Section 3.2.3). A jurisdictional delineation was completed in 2011 and updated in 2018 and 2019.
The delineation found 0.43 acre of unvegetated state streambed (which is also MSHCP riverine habitat) and 0.93 acre of state wetland (which is also MSHCP riparian habitat). The survey also identified 0.10 acre of federal Wate rs of the U.S. ( WoUS), non e of which is federal w etland (Table 7).
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All jurisdictional areas onsite will either be impacted by Project development or incorporated into the Avoidance/Compatible Use Area (Figure 12) . The Avoidance/Compatible Use Area will retain native riparian habitat.
Pools or depressions characteristic of vernal hab itat were not observed on the site and no wetland or vernal pool plant species were present. No evidence of ponding areas (i.e., cracked soils, tire ruts, etc.) were observed on the site during surveys.
Table 7. Summary of Jurisdictional Resources Present
Feature
Total Present sq. ft. (acres)
State Streambed /
MSHCP Riverine
Sq. ft.
State Wetland /
MSHCP Riparian Sq.
ft.
Federal Waters Sq.
ft.
Federal Wetland
Sq. ft.
1 6,842 15,916 1,290 0
1b 1,797 2,751 716 0
2 8,275 20,913 1,806 0
3 0 0 0 0
4 (offsite) 1,289 871 325 0
5 (offsite) 611 0 260 0
TOTALS 18814 (0.43 ac) 40,451 (0.93 ac) 4,397 (0.10 ac) 0
Table 8. Summary of Jurisdictional Impacts
Feature
Total Impacts sq. ft. (acres)
State Streambed /
MSHCP Riverine
Sq. ft.
State Wetland /
MSHCP Riparian
Sq. ft.
Federal Waters
Sq. ft.
Federal Wetland
Sq. ft.
1 5498 1824 0 0
1b 1797 2751 716 0
2 346 256 0 0
3 0 0 0 0
4 (offsite) 1289 871 325 0
5 (offsite) 611 0 260 0
TOTALS 9,541 (0.219 ac) 5,702 (0.131 ac) 1301 (0.029 ac) 0
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Figure 11
Jurisdictional Areas
(Photo obtained from Google Earth, 3-9-2011)
Golden Meadows, TT 31194
City of Menifee, California
L&L Environmental, Inc.
BIOLOGICAL AND CULTURAL
INVESTIGATIONS AND MONITORING
RLCC-03-187
December 2021
1 1b
4 2
3 5
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Figure 12
Jurisdictional Areas with
Development Plan
(Plan obtained from Hunsaker & Assoc. Irvine, Inc., 2021)
Menifee Assemblage, TT 31194
City of Menifee, California
L&L Environmental, Inc.
BIOLOGICAL AND CULTURAL
INVESTIGATIONS AND MONITORING
RLCC-03-187
December 2021
1 1b
4 2
5 Compatible Use Area
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4.0) URBAN WILDLANDS INTERFACE ANALYSIS
The Project proposes an Avoidance/Compatible Use Area along the riparian area on the site as well as an Open Space Area in the northeast corner of the site. An Urban Wildlands Interface Analysis is included here in case the MSHCP requires imple mentation of the Urban Wildlands Interface Guidelines (Section 6.1.4 of the MSHCP). If these areas are not conserved and/or the Urban Wildlands Interface Guidelines are not applicable, this section will be withdrawn.
The main portion of the Avoidance/Compatible Use Area will be a channel about five (5) feet deep with 4:1 slopes . At the s outh end i s a smaller portion that will be c ontoured as a basin about five (5) fee t deep with 4:1 slopes. Offsite flows from the south will be picked up by v- ditches along the tract bound ary and the d itches will convey the f lows to this basin. Water will flow from the basin underneath an in ternal street and into the main portion of th e Avoidance/Compatible Use Area through a box culvert. The Avoidance/Compatible Use Area will retain native riparian habitat.
The Avoided Area and Open Space Area will be owned and ma intained by the Homeowners Association (HOA) according to HOA guidelines.
4.1) Drainage
Runoff from the development will be treated in water quality basins to remove common pollutants and reduce peak flows before being di scharged into the Avoidance/Compatible Use Area.
During construction, all contractors and subcontractors will use Best Management Practices (BMPs) to manage, capture, control, eliminate, and preve nt sediment, debris, and pollutants from being discharged in to streambeds and drai nages. A Storm Wat er Polluti on Pr evention Plan (SWPPP) has been prepared for the Project. Construction BMPs address sediment and erosion control, non-sediment pollutants, and non-storm water BMPs.
If grading occurs when the ephemera l streambed is wetted, a bypass will be r equired.
A Bypass Plan will be d eveloped by the SWPPP consultant prior to ini tiation of grading unless all grading can occur when the ephemeral streambed is dry.
Post-construction BMPs in clude minimi zing urban ru noff, minimiz ing the impervious footprint, conserving natural ar eas, and m inimizing Direc tly Connected Impervious Areas (DCIAs).
Project plans incorporate BMPs to address water quality in low flows and first flush storm runoff, Updated Biological Resources Assessment
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as well as to control post-construction peak flow volumes. These BM Ps will include a combination of w ater quality, detention, infiltration and /or s and filter basins as needed to adequately treat runoff.
4.2) Toxics
Land uses proposed that use chemicals that are pote ntially toxic, or that may adversely affec t wildlife species, habitat, or water quality shall incorporate measures to ensure that application of such chemicals does not result in discharge to the Avoidance/Compatible Use Area and downstream drainages. The greatest risk is from landscaping fertilizer and herbicide/pesticide runoff. The water quality basins, as discussed above, will reduce expected runoff of toxic chemicals entering the wetland area and adjoining drainages downstream.
Information will be distributed to homeowners in an educational package requesting minimal application of chemicals to yards and prevention of runoff through adjustment of sprinklers to prevent overwatering and overspray resulting in nuisance water and low flow dry season urban runoff.
Signage will be placed on storm drains throughout the community stating: “Nothing but rain in the drains.” Information on the importance of not dumping chemicals, animal waste, and deb ris into the street will be distributed to homeowners via the Home Owners Association (HOA) at the point of sale or by the managing authority.
4.3) Fencing
The siting and design of fencing should not impede wildlife movement. Given the location of the Avoidance/Compatible Use Area within the residential development, wildlife usin g the site are likely to be common species that are comfortable with proximity to human disturbance.
The Project boundar y and back and side yards will be fenc ed according to a fencing pl an approved by the lead agency. No direct access between residences and the Open Space Area or the Avoidance/Compatible Use Area will occur or be allowed.
Mitigation Measure 4.3 -7 in the 2006 E IR requires i ndividual lot fencing to be used to restrict access to the on-site wetland areas. Back yard gates from individual residential lots that open onto the wetland area shall be prohibited.
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4.4) Barriers
Proposed land uses adjace nt to the Avoidance/Compatible Use Area and Op en Space A rea shall incorporate barriers in Project designs, where appropriate, to minimize unauthorized public access, domestic animal predat ion, illegal t respass, or trash dumping. Such barriers may include native landscapi ng, rocks/bould ers, fencing, w alls, sign age, and /or other appropriate mechanisms.
The Project will install two (2) o r more information boards (to be located at each end of the Avoidance/Compatible Use Area and at other access points, as needed) providing a description of suitable uses and asking residents to remain on existing trails and to keep pets on a leash.
4.5) Lighting
Night lighting shall be directed away from the Avoidance/Compatible Use Area and Open Space Area to protect sp ecies from direct night lighti ng. Shielding shall be i ncorporated in Project designs to ensur e ambient lighting in the Avoidance/Compatible Use Area and O pen Space Area is not substantially increased.
Mitigation Measure 4.3 -8 in the 2006 EIR requires that night lighting during and after project construction shall be directed away from onsite wetland areas and, except for safety and other requirements, lighting shall be limited from the boundaries of onsite wetland areas. In the event that lighting in an area adjacent to the wetland area is necessary, a shield shall be incorporated in Project designs to ensure ambient lighting in the wetland area is not increased.
4.6) Noise
Proposed noise-generating land uses affecting the Avoidance/Compatible Use Area and Open Space A rea shall incor porate setbac ks, be rms, or wal ls t o m inimize the ef fects of noi se on wildlife resources pursuant to appl icable rules, re gulations, and guidelines related to land use noise standards.
4.7) Invasives
Invasive spec ies (refe r to MSHCP Ta ble 6 -2, b elow) shall not be used in d evelopment or restoration plan activities. Mitigation Measure 4.3-9 in the 2006 EIR requires that the landscape plans for the Project in areas adjacent or tribut ary to wetland areas shall not include thos e species lis ted in the MSHCP a s “Plants That Shoul d Be Avo ided Adjacent to The MSHCP Conservation Area” (MSHCP Table 6-2).
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4.8) Grading/Land Development
Manufactured s lopes will be required to exten d into the Avoidance/Compatible Use Area to support the Project design. Grading should not extend into the Open Space Area.
4.9) Weed Abatement/Fuel Modification
Weed abatement and fuel modification zones were considered in the d etermination of h abitat impacts. Weed abatement and fue l modification zone would not encroach into portions of the Open Space Area and have been excluded from the Avoidance/Compatible Use Area.
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MSHCP Table 6-2. Plants That Should Be Avoided Adj acent to the MSHCP Conservation Area (Taken Directly from MSHCP Section 6.1.4)
BOTANICAL NAME COMMON NAME
Acacia spp. (all species) acacia
Achillea millefolium var. millefolium common yarrow
Ailanthus altissima tree of heaven
Aptenia cordifolia red apple
Arctotheca calendula cape weed
Arctotis spp. (all species & hybrids) African daisy
Arundo donax giant reed or arundo grass
Asphodelus fistulosus asphodel
Atriplex glauca white saltbush
Atriplex semibaccata Australian saltbush
Carex spp. (all species*) sedge
Carpobrotus chilensis ice plant
Carpobrotus edulis sea fig
Centranthus ruber red valerian
Chrysanthemum coronarium annual chrysanthemum
Cistus ladanifer (incl. hybrids/varieties) gum rockrose Cortaderia jubata [syn.C. Atacamensis] jubata grass, pampas grass Cortaderia dioica [syn. C. sellowana] pampas grass
Cotoneaster spp. (all species) cotoneaster
Cynodon dactylon (incl. hybrids varieties) Bermuda grass Cyperus spp. (all species*) nutsedge, umbrella plant
Cytisus spp. (all species) broom
Delosperma ‘Alba’ white trailing ice plant
Dimorphotheca spp. (all species) African daisy, Cape marigold Drosanthemum floribundum rosea ice plant
Drosanthemum hispidum purple ice plant
Eichhornia crassipes water hyacinth
Elaegnus angustifolia Russian olive
Eucalyptus spp. (all species) eucalyptus or gum tree
Eupatorium coelestinum [syn. Ageratina sp.] mist flower Festuca arundinacea tall fescue
Festuca rubra creeping red fescue
Foeniculum vulgare sweet fennel
Fraxinus uhdei (and cultivars) evergreen ash, shamel ash Gaura (spp.) (all species) gaura
Gazania spp. (all species & hybrids) gazania
Genista spp. (all species) broom
Hedera canariensis Algerian ivy
Hedera helix English ivy
Hypericum spp. (all species) St. John’s Wort
Ipomoea acuminata Mexican morning glory
Lampranthus spectabilis trailing ice plant
Lantana camara common garden lantana
Lantana montevidensis [syn. L. sellowiana] lantana
Limonium perezii sea lavender
Linaria bipartita toadflax
Lolium multiflorum Italian ryegrass
Lolium perenne perennial ryegrass
Lonicera japonica (incl. ‘Halliana’) Japanese honeysuckle Lotus corniculatus birdsfoot trefoil
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MSHCP Table 6-2. Plants That Should Be Avoided Adjacent to the MSHCP Conservation Area (Continued)
BOTANICAL NAME COMMON NAME
Lupinus arboreus yellow bush lupine
Lupinus texanus Texas blue bonnets
Malephora crocea ice plant
Malephora luteola ice plant
Mesembryanthemum nodiflorum little ice plant
Myoporum laetum myoporum
Myoporum pacificum shiny myoproum
Myoporum parvifolium (incl. ‘Prostratum’) ground cover myoporum Oenothera berlandieri Mexican evening primrose
Olea europea European olive tree
Opuntia ficus-indica Indian fig
Osteospermum spp. (all species) trailing African daisy, African daisy, Oxalis pes-caprae Bermuda buttercup
Parkinsonia aculeata Mexican palo verde
Pennisetum clandestinum Kikuyu grass
Pennisetum setaceum fountain grass
Phoenix canariensis Canary Island date palm
Phoenix dactylifera date palm
Plumbago auriculata cape plumbago
Polygonum spp. (all species) knotweed
Populus nigra ‘italica’ Lombardy poplar
Prosopis spp. (all species*) mesquite
Ricinus communis castorbean
Robinia pseudoacacia black locust
Rubus procerus Himalayan blackberry
Sapium sebiferum Chinese tallow tree
Saponaria officinalis bouncing bet, soapwart
Schinus molle Peruvian pepper tree, California pepper
Schinus terebinthifolius Brazilian pepper tree
Spartium junceum Spanish broom
Tamarix spp. (all species) tamarisk, salt cedar
Trifolium tragiferum strawberry clover
Tropaelolum majus garden nasturtium
Ulex europaeus prickly broom
Vinca major periwinkle
Yucca gloriosa Spanish dagger
An asterisk (*) indicates some native species of the genera exist that may be appropriate.
Sources: California Exotic Pest Plant Council, United States Department of Agriculture-Division of Plant Health and Pest Prevention Services, California Native Plant Society, Fremontia Vol. 26 N o. 4, October 1998, The Je pson Manual: Higher Plants of Californ ia, and County o f San Di ego Department of Agriculture.
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5.0) SUMMARY AND RECOMMENDATIONS
The purpose of this study was to identify biological resources present or potentially present on the site. The MSHCP requires a habitat assessment to address riparian/riverine and vernal pool habitats and associated species and burrowing owl. F ocused surveys are required if suitable habitat is present.
L&L also analyzed the potential for impacts to state an d fed eral jurisdictional w aters, special status species, and sensitive vegetation communities. The recommendations are based on the literature revi ew, L&L’s knowledge of spe cies and habi tats in the region, the biological field survey, and analysis of aerial images.
MSHCP
The site is located within the area covered by the MSHCP but is not within the Criteria Area.
There is one area of PQP Conserved Lands approximately 0.68 miles north-northeast of the site (Ringing Rock Archaeological Site) . There ar e no other PQP or MSHCP Con served Lands within a mile of the site. The site is not within or near any MSHCP Core Areas or Linkages.
Sensitive Vegetation Communities
The site is co mposed of agricultural la nds and disturbed/ruderal areas, California buckwheat scrub, chamise chaparral, arroyo willow thickets, and mulefat thickets. Arroyo willow thickets and mulefat thickets are riparian vegetation communities and arroyo willow thicket is considered sensitive. The majority of arroyo willow thicket will be retained in the Avoidance/Compatible Use Area.
Listed and Special Status Plant Species
No state or federally listed plants were observed during surveys and the Project site is not within USFWS designated critical habitat for any listed plant species. Two special status plant species were observed on the site during surveys, long-spined spineflower and southern California black walnut. Both are covered species under the MSHCP and considered adequately conserved.
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Trees
There is a single immature coast live oak tree present on the site within the riparian area. Other native and non-native trees are also present. The City may regulate removal or replacement of trees and a tree survey may be required.
Listed and Fully Protected Wildlife Species
Surveys detected two listed or fully prot ected wildlife species on the site, coastal Califor nia gnatcatcher and white-tailed kite.
Multiple surveys from 2004 through 2021 have documented coastal California gnatcatchers on the Project site, including observations of breeding pairs and nesting. All observations were in the California buckwheat scrub habitat in the northeastern p ortion of the site. Under Mitigation Measure 4.3-1 of the 2006 EIR, the northeas tern portion of the property shall be preserved as open space and covered by a conservation easement or similar mechanism. Coastal California gnatcatcher is a co vered species under t he MSHCP and consid ered adequately conserv ed.
Focused surveys for this s pecies are not required under the MSHCP . Scheduling Project activities outside the nesting season and/or conducting preconstruction nesting bird c learance surveys and establishing av oidance buffers around any active nests is recommended, as described below. Monitoring of active nest sites during Project activities is recommended.
Two white-tailed kites were observed on the Project s ite in 2005 and one in 2011. No kites have been obs erved during more re cent surveys. Although th is species may forage on th e Project site and potentially suitable nesting habitat is present, no n esting has be en observed there. White-tailed kit e is a covered species under the MSHCP and consid ered adequately conserved.
Under Mitigation Measure 4.3-5 of the 2006 EIR, if constr uction activities occ ur b etween January 1 and September 15 and within 150 feet of suitable nesting locations, a focused rap tor survey will be required prior to issuance of grading permits. If active nests are located within the portion of the site to be d isturbed or within 150 feet of the area to be disturbed, mea sures shall be initiated to avoid any impacts to nesting raptors, including avoidance bu ffers around active nests. Under this mitigation measure, if white-tailed kite nesting is found on the Proj ect site, an incidental take permit from CDFW is required.
Two other listed species have not been observed on the Project site during surveys but have a moderate or high pote ntial to occur, Stephens’ kangaroo rat and tricolored blackbird (foraging).
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Stephens’ kangaroo rat is a covered spec ies un der the MSHCP and consider ed adequately conserved. Focused trapping surveys for this s pecies are not required by the MSHCP .
Tricolored blackbird is also a covered species under th e MSHCP and considered adequately conserved.
Fairy Shrimp
Pools or depressions characteristic of ve rnal h abitat were n ot observed on the site and no wetland or vernal pool plant species were present. No evidence of ponding areas (i.e., cracked soils, tire ruts, etc.) were observed on the site during surveys. No fairy shrimp or potential fairy shrimp habitat was observed during current or previous surveys.
Riparian Birds
No least Bell’s vireo, southwestern willow flycatcher, or western yellow-billed cuckoo have been incidentally detected during surveys. Riparian vegetation onsite is scattered and deg raded, the understory is poorly developed, and the streambed does not have persistent water flow. Typical habitat to support least Bell’s vireo , southwestern willow flycatcher, and yellow-billed cuckoo is not present and these species are considered absent from the site.
Quino Checkerspot Butterfly
No Quino checkerspot butterfly adults, larvae, or pupae wer e observed onsite during focused surveys in 2004, although potentially suitable h abitat and larval host and nectaring plants are present. This speci es has not been inc identally observed during any subsequent surveys.
Quino checkerspot butterfly is a covered species under the MSHCP and considered adequately conserved. Focused surveys are not required by the MSHCP.
Special Status Wildlife Species
Biological surveys from 2003 to 2021 detected 19 special st atus wildlife species on the site:
orange-throated w hiptail, coastal (western) whiptail , coast horned lizard, Cooper’s haw k, southern California rufous-crowned sparrow, great egret, great blue heron (fly over), Bell’s sage sparrow, burrowing owl, Costa’s h ummingbird, wrentit, northern harrier, Nuttall’s woo dpecker, California horned lark, loggerhead shrike, rufous hummingbird, Lawrence’s goldfinch, California thrasher, and San Diego black-tailed jackrabbit.
All of these species are covered under the MSHCP and considered adequately conserved, with the exce ption of great eg ret, Costa’s hummingbird, wrentit, Nuttall’s woodpecker, rufous Updated Biological Resources Assessment
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hummingbird, Lawrence’s goldfinch, and California thrasher, which are not covered under the MSHCP. Burrowing owl is discus sed below. Scheduling Project activities outsid e the nesting season or conducting preconstruction ne sting b ird c learance surveys and establishing avoidance buffers around any active nests is recommended, as described below.
Five (5) additional special s tatus wildlife species have not been observed on the Project site during L&L surveys but have a low to moderate potential to occur . These species are Crotch bumble bee, southern California legless lizard, Dulzura pocket mouse, northwestern San Diego pocket mouse, and western mastiff bat (foraging) . Northwestern San Diego pocket mouse is covered under the MSHCP and considered adequately conserved. The remaining four species are not covered under the MSHCP.
Crotch bumb le bee was previou sly a candidate for state li sting, but in November 2020 the Sacramento Superior Court ruled that i nsects are not eligible f or listing u nder th e California Endangered Species Act. The California Fish and Game Commission filed an intent to appeal this decis ion in Febr uary 20 21. The s tatus of this species may be aff ected by subsequent litigation or c hanges t o regulations. If Crot ch bumble bee becomes a l isted or candidate species, focused surveys and incidental take permitting may be required.
Burrowing Owl
One (1) adult burrowing owl and an occupied burrow were observed onsite in 2018. No owls or owl sign were observed in 2019 or 2021 . Because suitabl e habitat is present , the MSHCP requires a preconstruction clearance survey for burrowing owl within 30 days prior to the start of site d isturbance. If burrowing owls are found on the site at that time, additio nal mitigation is required under the MSHCP and Mitigation Measure 4.3-2 of the 2006 EIR.
Nesting Birds
There is habitat suitable for n esting birds (including raptors) within and adjacent to the site.
Nesting birds may utilize trees, shrubs, and other vegetation, and open ground on and adjacent to the site for nesting.
Nesting birds are protected un der st ate and f ederal laws. Project activities, incl uding initial vegetation trimming/clearing, tree trimming/removal, ground dist urbance, etc., should be avoided d uring the nesting season ( generally January 1 to September 15 ). If the nesting season cannot be a voided, a nesting bird clearance s urvey is rec ommended within thr ee ( 3) days prior to the start of Project activities within the nesting season. If active nests are present, Updated Biological Resources Assessment
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avoidance of nest s ites is required an d a buffer o f 300 to 500 feet (or as determined by a biologist) i s reco mmended until a bio logist has verifie d t hat juvenile bir ds are no long er dependent on the nest or the nest has otherwise become inactive. An active nest is defined as a nest with eggs, chicks, or dependent juveniles, or a nest actively being constructed or utilized for reproduction.
Wildlife Corridors
The site is largely surrounded by scattered existing development and there is no connectivity between the site and conserved lands to the east and southwest. Although there may be limited local movement of wildlife on and across the site, it is not within or adjacent to a wildlife corridor or potential corridor.
Jurisdictional Waters/Wetlands and MSHCP Riparian/Riverine and Vernal Pool Habitat An ephemeral drainage with scattered riparian vegetation is present on the site and mapped as a USGS blue-line stream. A jurisdictional deli neation found 0.43 acre of unvegetated state streambed (which is also MSHCP riverine habitat) and 0.93 acre of state wetland (which is also MSHCP riparian habitat). The survey also identified 0.10 acre of federal waters. There is no federal wetland.
All jurisdictional areas onsite will either be impacted by Project development or incorporated into the Avoidance/Compatible Use Area. Areas of the property that cannot be avoided and will be impacted by planned development include 9,541 sq. ft. (0.22 acre) of MSHCP riverine habitat and 5,702 sq. ft. (0.13 acre) of MSHCP riparian habitat. Areas that are avoided by the Project and contain MSHCP riparian/riverine habitat include 9,273 sq. ft. (0.21 acre) of MSHCP riverine habitat and 34,749 sq. ft. (0.80 acre) of MSHCP riparian habitat that will be retained onsite in an Avoidance/Compatible Use Are a. Monitoring of Project activities adjacent to t he Avoidance/Compatible Use Area is recommended.
Pools or depressions characteristic of vernal habi tat were not observed on the site and no wetland or vernal pool plant species were present. No evidence of ponding areas (i.e., cracked soils, tire ruts, etc.) were observed on the site during surveys.
Regulatory pe rmits from USACE, RWQCB, a nd CDFW will be required for impact s to jurisdictional areas. A DBESP will be required for impact s to MSHCP riparian/riverine habitat.
Mitigation Meas ure 4.3 -6 also requi res on or off-site rep lacement of CDFW and federal jurisdictional wa ters and wetlands at a ratio of no less than 1:1 and incorporation of design Updated Biological Resources Assessment
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features that will avoid biological impacts to offsite b lue-line streams that flow to Canyon Lake.
Monitoring of Project activities that disturb vegetation or soil in a nd adjacen t to t he Avoidance/Compatible Use Area is recommended.
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6.0) REGULATORY ENVIRONMENT
The following summary of t he regulatory environment is pr ovided for information purposes and is not intended for review or comment by the lead or wildlife agencies.
6.1) Federal Endangered Species Act
Section 9 of the federal Endangered Species Act (FESA), 1973 (as amended) prohibits “take” of federally listed threatened and endangered species. Candidate species receive no protection under FESA, but the USFWS encourages conservation of these species. “Take” is defined as to harass, harm, pursue, hu nt, s hoot, wound, kill, tr ap, capt ure, or c ollect, or to attempt to engage in any such conduct. “Harm” is fur ther defined to inclu de habi tat mo dification or degradation when it actually kills or injures wildlife by impairing essent ial beh avioral patterns including breeding, feeding, or sheltering.
Incidental take is t ake that results fro m, bu t is not the purpose of, carrying out an otherwise lawful activity. Incidental take of federally listed species may be authorized under Section 7 of FESA for federal properties or where federal actions (i.e., federal permitting or federal funding) are involved or under Section 10 of FESA for non-federal actions.
Section 7 requires all Federal agencies, in "consultation" with the USFWS, to ensure that their actions are not likely to jeopardize the c ontinued existence of listed species or result in destruction or adverse mod ification of critical habitat. The Section 7 process r equires preparation of a federal Biological Assessment to determine whether a proposed major construction activity under the authority of a Federal action agency is likely to ad versely affect listed species, proposed species, or designated critical habitat. After formal consultation, the USFWS will issu e a Bi ological Opinion stating whether or not a federal action is li kely to jeopardize the continued existence of listed species or r esult in the destruction or adve rse modification of critical habitat.
Section 1 0 lays out th e guidelines under wh ich a perm it may be issued t o authorize take of endangered or threatened speci es (in the a bsence of a ny federal nexus). Application for a n incidental take permit under Section 10 is subject to certain requirements, including preparation by th e pe rmit applicant of a conservation plan , generally known as a " Habitat Conservation Plan" or "HCP." An HCP is a plan that outlines ways of maintaining, enhancing, and protecting a given habitat type needed to protect species. The plan usually includes measures to minimize Updated Biological Resources Assessment
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impacts, such as provisions for permanently protecting land, r estoring habitat, an d relocating plants or animals to another area.
6.2) Jurisdictional Waters and Wetlands
Three ag encies ge nerally r egulate activities within streams, wetlands, and r iparian are as in California: (1 ) the U.S. Army Corps o f Engineers (USACE) regul ates activities u nder S ection 404 of the federal Clean Water Act; (2) the Regional W ater Quality C ontrol Board (RWQCB) regulates activities under Section 401 of the f ederal Clea n Water Act and the State P orter- Cologne W ater Quality Control Act; and (3) the California D epartment of Fish and Wi ldlife (CDFW) regulates activities under California Fish and Game Code Sections 1600-1616.
6.2.1) Federal Clean Water Act, Section 404
Section 404 of the federal Clean Water Act applies to "W aters of the United States" (WoUS).
By de finition these include wat erways t hat c ould be us ed for interstate commerce and their tributaries, including any waters that flow into traditional navigable waters. In non-tidal waters, the limits of jurisdiction are "ordinary high water marks" (OHWM) such as stream banks.
There have been recent changes to the definition of WoUS and the agencies are interpreti ng WoUS consistent wit h t he pre-2015 r egulatory r egime until further notice. Under this rule, WoUS includes:
1. All waters which are currently used, or were used in the past, or may be susceptible to use in interstate or foreign commerce, including all waters which are subject to the ebb and flow of the tide;
2. All interstate waters including interstate wetlands;
3. All other waters such as intrastate lakes, rivers, streams (including intermittent streams), mudflats, sandflats, wetlands, sloughs, prairie potholes, wet meadows, playa la kes, or natural ponds, the use, degradation or destruction of which could affect in terstate or foreign commerce including any such waters:
a. Which are or could be used by inter state or foreign travelers for recreational or other purposes; or
b. From which fish or shellfish are or could be taken and sold in interstate or foreign commerce; or
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c. Which are used o r could be used f or industr ial purp oses by indu stries in interstate commerce;
4. All impoundments of waters otherwise defined as waters of the United States under this definition;
5. Tributaries of waters identified in paragraphs (s)(1) through (4) of this section;
6. The territorial sea;
7. Wetlands adjacent to waters (other than waters that are themselves wetlands) identified in pa ragraphs (s)(1) th rough (6) of this sect ion; w aste tr eatment system s, i ncluding treatment p onds or lagoons designed to meet the requiremen ts of C WA (other than cooling ponds as defined in 40 CFR 423.11(m) which als o meet the criteria of th is definition) are not waters of the United States.
Final determination and delineation of federal jurisdiction is made by the USACE and not by the project biologists. Therefore, fieldwork and documentation of the site conditions are done as a preliminary delineation until the USACE reviews and concurs with the results.
6.2.2) Federal Clean Water Act, Section 401 and Porter-Cologne The RWQCB has jurisdiction over wetlands, WoUS, and Waters of the State under Section 401 of the CW A and the Porter-Cologne Wa ter Quality Control Act (Porter-Cologne) under the California Water Code (§ 13000, et seq.) Permitting is required for activities that will result in a discharge of soils, nutrients, chemicals, detrital materials, or other pollutants into WoUS, Waters of the State, or adjac ent w etlands that w ill affect the wat er quality o f those bo dies and t he watershed.
6.2.3) California Fish and Game Code, Section 1600
The CDFW, through provisions of the California Fish and Game Code (Sections 1600-1616), is empowered to issue agreements (“Lake a nd Streambed Alteration Ag reements”) f or pro jects that will adversely affect wildlife habitat associated with any river, stream, or lake edges. The Lake and Streambed Alteration Agreement will typically include required measures to mitigate impacts.
Sections 1600-1616 of the Calif ornia Fish and Game Code apply to stream channels, defined elsewhere in the Code as follows:
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"A stream is a body of water that flows at least periodically through a bed or channel having banks and su pports fish or other aquatic life. This includes watercourses having a surface or subsurface flow that supports or has supported riparian vegetation." The state definition does not specify a flow rate or inundation frequency and provides no clear distinction between jurisdictional and non-jurisdictional lands.
While th e federal USACE criteria (hydrology, soils, a nd vegetation) are used to eva luate the presence or absence o f wetlands within the project site, the de termination o f sta te wetland status is not based on the combined presence of the three criterion because the state can take jurisdiction of a ny one of the three: (1) the presence of o pen water or saturated soils, ( 2) presence of vegetation i ncluding riparian or we tland species, and/or (3) water-modified or oxygen-depleted soils.
6.3) California Endangered Species Act
California Endangered Species Act (CESA) definitions of endangered and threatened species parallel those defined in the FESA. The CESA defines an endangered species as “. . . a native species or subspecies of a bird, mammal, fish, amphibian, reptile or plant which is in serious danger of becoming extinct throughout all, or a signi ficant p ortion, of its r ange due to one or more c auses incl uding loss of habitat, c hange in habitat, ove r exploitation, pre dation, competition or disease.” Endangered species are in serious danger of becoming extinct and threatened species are likely to b ecome endangered s pecies in the f oreseeable futur e (according to Sections 2062 and 2067, respectively, of the California Fish and Wildlife Code).
Candidate species a re t hose under f ormal review by the CDFW for listing as endangered or threatened (Section 2067). Prior to b eing c onsidered for protected s tatus, the CDFW designates a s pecies as being of s pecial concern. Species of Special Concern are those for which the CDFW has information indicating population decline.
6.4) California Environmental Quality Act
The Calif ornia En vironmental Qualit y Ac t (C EQA) and C EQA G uidelines (§ 1500 0 et seq .) require identification of environmental effects from discretionary projects. Significant effects are to be mitigated by avoidance, minimization, rectification, or compensation whenever possible.
Effects to all state and federal listed species are considered significant under CEQA. In addition to formally listed species, CEQA considers effects to species that are demonstrably endangered or rare as important or significant. These definitions can include st ate designated species of Updated Biological Resources Assessment
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special concern, federal candidate and proposed species, California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB) tracked species, and California Rare Plant Rank (CRPR) 1B and 2 plants.
Appendix G of the C EQA Guidel ines specifically addresse s bi ological resources and encompasses a broad range of resources to be considered.
6.5) California Natural Diversity Database
The California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB) is a database that ranks overall condition of listed and special status species and sensitive vegetation communities on global (throughout its range) and state (within California) levels. The CNDDB includes documented occurrences of listed and special status species that have been reported to CDFW. State ranking is numerical, ranging from one to five (S1 to S 5), with one indicating very few remaining individuals or little remaining habitat and f ive indi cating a dem onstrably secure to ineradicable p opulation condition. State ranks (S ranks) may also include an extension (e.g., S1.x) indicating current threats ranging from one (very threatened) to three (no current threats known).
6.6) California Rare Plant Rank
The California Native Pla nt So ciety (CNPS) Inventory of Rare and Endangered Sp ecies includes documented occurrences of special status plant species that are available through the Consortium of California Herbaria and other sources. The CNPS, in coordination with CDFW, has ca taloged Ca lifornia's rare and endangered plants into lists according t o po pulation distributions and viability. These lists are numbered and indicate the following California Rare Plant Ranks (CRPR): (1A) presumed extinct in California; (1B) rare, threatened, or endangered throughout their range; (2A) presumed e xtirpated in California, but more common in other states; (2B) threatened or endangered in California, but more common in other states; (3) more information is needed to establish rarity; and (4) plants of limited distribution in California (i.e., naturally rare in t he wild), but whose populations do not appear to be susceptible to t hreat. A CRPR may also have an extension (e.g., 1B.x) that indicates current level of threat: seriously threatened (x.1), moderately threatened (x.2), or not very threatened (x.3).
6.7) Information for Planning and Consultation
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) Information for P lanning and Consultation (IPaC) is a database that includes federally listed endangered or threatened species a nd species proposed for listing, designated critical habitat, Birds of Conse rvation Concern, and other federally regulated lands and biological resources.
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6.8) Migratory Bird Treaty Act
The federal Mi gratory Bird Treaty Act (MB TA) o f 1918 (16 USC 703-711) is an international treaty that made it unlawful to take, possess, buy, sell, purchase, or barter any migratory bird listed in 50 CFR Part 10, including feathers or other pa rts, nests, eggs, or products, except as allowed by im plementing regulations (5 0 CFR 2 1). Executive Ord er 1318 6 ensures th at environmental ana lyses of f ederal a ctions req uired by the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) or other established environmental review processes evaluate the effects of actions on migratory birds, w ith e mphasis on species of con cern. Disturbance that cause s nest abandonment and/or loss of reproductive effort (e.g., killing or abandonment of eggs or young) or loss of habitat upon which the birds depend could be considered “take.”
6.9) California Fish and Game Code, Sections 3503 and 3513 California Fish and Game Co de Sec tion 3 503 prohibits ta ke, p ossession, or need less destruction of bird nests o r egg s except as otherwise provided by the Code; Sectio n 3503.5 prohibits take or possession of birds of prey or their eggs except as otherwise provided by the Code; and Section 3513 provides for the adoption of the provisions of the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act, described above.
6.10) Western Riverside County Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan The Count y of R iverside, including ei ght (8) a dditional land ju risdictions and 14 c ities, have prepared a Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (MSHCP) for western Riverside County.
The MSHCP will build upon existing preserves and provide connectivity and wil dlife corridors throughout the region. The MSHCP proposes to conserve approximately 500,000 acres and 146 different species.
The MSHCP was approved by the county on June 17, 2003 and an Implementation Agreement (IA) between the USFWS, the CDFW, and the County was executed and an associated USFWS Section 10(a)(1)(B) Permit (No. TE-088609) was issued on June 2 2, 2004. The pe rmit grants take authorization for certain species identified in the permit as "Covered Species Adequately Conserved."
The MSHCP esta blishes seven ( 7) co re reserve areas and associated li nkages between proposed and exi sting core areas. The MSHCP divides these areas into Ce lls using USGS coordinates.
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Focused surve ys are required fo r species identified as not adequately c onserved under t he MSHCP if suitable habitat is present onsite. If f ocused surveys are determined necessary and species identified as not a dequately conserved under the MSHCP occur onsite, the proponent may b e requi red to u ndergo a Ha bitat Acquisition and Negotiation Str ategy ( HANS) determination with the County of Riverside. If a single-family home or mob ile home is to be placed on an existing legal lot, permitting will be reviewed according to the procedures outlined in MSHCP Section 6.1.1, Expedited Review Process for Single-Family Homes or Mobile Homes to Be Located on an Existing Lot within the Criteria Area.
MSHCP Section 6.1.2 (Riparian/Riverine Habitat)
Section 6.1.2 of the MSHCP requires an assessment of the potentially significant effects of the proposed project on Riparian/riverine areas, and vernal pools as curr ently required by C EQA using available information augmented by project-specific mapping. Riparian/riverine areas and vernal pools are defined as follows:
• Riparian/riverine Areas are l ands that have flow for all or a portion o f the year and which contain habitat dominated by trees, shrubs, persistent emergents, or emergent mosses and lichens, which occur close to or which depend upon soil moisture from a nearby fresh water source; or areas with fresh water flow during all or a portion of the year. • Vernal p ools are season al w etlands that occur in depression areas that have wetlands indicators of al l three p arameters (soi ls, vegetation, and hydrology) duri ng the wett er portion of the gro wing sea son but normally lack wetlands ind icators o f h ydrology and/or vegetation during the drier portio n of the growing seas on. Obligate h ydrophytes and facultative wetlands plant species are normally dominant during the w etter portion of the growing season, while upland species (annuals) may be dominant during the drier portion of the growing season. The determination that an area exhibits vernal pool characteristics, and the definition of the wa tershed supporting vernal pool hydrology, must be made on a case-by case basis. Such determinations should consider the length of the time the ar ea exhibits upland and we tland characteristics and t he manner in which the area fits into the overall ecological system as a wetland. Evidence concerning the persistence of an area’s wetness can be obtained from its history, vegetation, soils, and drainage ch aracteristics, uses, to which it has been subjected, and weather and hydrologic records.
With the exception of wetlands created for the purpose of providing wetlands habitat or resulting from hu man actions to create open waters or fr om t he alteration o f na tural stream courses, areas demon strating charac teristics as described abo ve which are artificially create d a re n ot included in these definitions.
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Burrowing Owl
Section B ( Species Accounts) of V olume 2 of t he MSHCP (Dudek 2003) lists the following objectives for burrowing owl conservation/protection:
Objective 1
Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area at l east 27,470 acres of suitable primary habitat for the burrowing owl including grasslands.
Objective 2
Include w ithin the MSHCP Conservation Area at l east 5 Core Areas and interconnecting linkages. Core a reas may include th e following: (1) Lake Skinner/Diamond Valley Lake area (Existing Core C plus Proposed Extension of Existing Co res 5, 6, 7; 29,060 ac res); (2) playa west of Hem et ( Proposed Noncontiguous Habitat Block 7; 1,250 acres) ; (3) San Jacin to Wild life Area/Mystic La ke area i ncluding Lake Perris ar ea (Existing Core H; 17,47 0 acres); (4) Lake Mathews (Existing Core C plus Proposed Extension of Existing Cores 2; 23,710 acres); and (5) along the Santa Ana Rive r (9,670 acres). The Core Areas sho uld sup port a c ombined tot al breedi ng population of approximately 120 burrowing owls with no fewer than five pairs in any one Core area.
Objective 3
Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area at least 22,120 acres of su itable secondary habitat for the bur rowing owl including playas and vernal pools, and agriculture outside of the Core Areas identified above. Areas where additional suitable habitat could be co nserved include west of the Jurupa Mountains, near Temescal Wa sh (i.e., vicinity of Alberhill), ne ar Teme cula Creek, wi thin the Lakeview Mountains, Banning, the Badlands, Gavilan Hills, and Quail Valley.
Objective 4
Include within the MSHCP Conservation Area the known nesting locations of the burrowing o wl at Lake P erris, My stic Lake/S an Jacinto Wild life ar ea, Lake Skinner are a, the a rea around Diam ond Vall ey L ake, playa wes t of Hem et, Lakeview Mou ntains, Lake Mat hews/Estelle Moun tain Re serve and Sycamore Canyon Regional Park.
Objective 5
Surveys for burrowing owl will be conducted as part of the project review process for pub lic and private project s within the burrowing owl survey area where suitable habitat is p resent (see Burrowing Owl Survey Area Map, Figure 6-4 of the MSHCP, Volume I). The locations of this spe cies determined as a result of survey efforts shall be conserved in accordance with procedures described within Section 6.3.2, MSHCP, Volume I and the guidance provided below:
Burrowing owl surveys shall be conducted utilizing accepted protocols as follows.
If burrowing owls are detected on the project site then the action(s) taken will be as follows:
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If the site is within the Criteria Area, then at least 90 percent of the area wi th long -term conservation value will be included in the MSHCP Conservation Area. Otherwise:
1) If the site contains, or is part of an area supporting less than 35 acres of suitable habitat or the survey reveals that the site and the surrounding area supports fewer t han 3 pairs of burrowing owls, then the on -site bur rowing owls will be p assively or actively relocated following accepted protocols.
2) If the site (including adjacent areas ) supports three or more pairs of burrowing owls, supports greater than 35 acres of suitable habitat and is n on-contiguous with MSHCP Conservation Area lands, at least 90 percent o f the area with long-term conservation value and burrowing owl pairs will be conserved onsite.
The survey and conse rvation r equirements stated in this object ive will be eliminated when it is demonstrated that Objectives 1 – 4 have been met.
Objective 6
Pre-construction presence/absence surveys for burrowing owl within the survey area where suitable habitat is present will be conducted for all Covered Activities through the life of the permit. Surveys will be conducted within 30 days prior to disturbance. Take of active nests will be avoided. Passive relocation (u se of one-way doors and collapse of burrows) will occur when owls are present outside the nesting season.
Objective 7
Translocation sites for the burrowing ow l will be created in the MSHCP Conservation Area for the establishment of new colonies. Translocation sites will be id entified, t aking into consideration unocc upied ha bitat a reas, presence of burrowing mammals t o provid e su itable burrow s ites, existing co lonies an d effects t o other Covered Species. Reserve Ma nagers will co nsult with the Wildlife Agencies regarding site selection prior to translocation site development.
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7.0) REFERENCES
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CDFW (California Department of Fish and Wildlife). 2021a. Special Vasc ular P lants, Bryophytes, and Lichens List. Quarterly publication. October.
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Cornell (Cornell L aboratory of Or nithology). 2021. B irds of the Wor ld Onl ine. Ithaca, NY . https://birdsoftheworld.org/bow/home
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L&L (L&L Environmental, Inc.) 2003a. General Biological Survey Report for the Menifee Tract 31194 Riverside County, California. Report prepared for Woodside H omes. Included in the technical appendix of the 2006 Environmental Impact Report.
_____. 2003b. Jurisdictional Delineation for the Menifee Assemblage APN #360-300-002, 003- 006, 008, and 360-350-001, Menifee, Riversi de County, California. Report prepared for Woodside Homes. Included in the technical appendix of the 2006 Environmental Impact Report.
_____. 2004a. A Spr ing Botanical Survey, on Tra ct 31194, Menifee Assemblage, Riverside County, California. Report prepared for Woodside Homes.
_____. 2004 b. Focus ed Survey for the Quino Che ckerspot Butterfly on Tract 31194, Menifee Assemblage, Rive rside Count y, California . Report pr epared for Woo dside H omes.
Included in the technical appendix of the 2006 Environmental Impact Report.
_____. 2004c. Focused Survey for the Coastal California Gnatcatcher on Tract 31194, Menifee Assemblage, Riv erside C ounty, Cali fornia. Report pre pared for Woodside H omes.
Included in the technical appendix of the 2006 Environmental Impact Report.
_____. 2005a. A Burrowing Owl Species Survey for the Menifee Assemblage Project Menifee, Riverside County, Ca lifornia. Report prepare d for Woodsid e Hom es. Included in the technical appendix of the 2006 Environmental Impact Report.
_____. 2005b. Results of a Focused Habitat Assessment Surve y for the Least Bell ’s Vire o, Southwestern Will ow Flyca tcher, and Yello w-billed Cuckoo on Menifee Assemblage, ±204.7 Acre Project, Trac t 31194, Me nifee, California. Report pr epared for W oodside Homes. Included in the technical appendix of the 2006 Environmental Impact Report.
_____. 2005 c. Jurisdicti onal Imp acts on the 204.7 ± Acre Project, Tract 311 94, Menifee , California. Report prepared for Wood side Homes. Included in the technical appendix of the 2006 Environmental Impact Report.
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_____. 2006 a. Foc used Br eeding Season Burrowin g Owl Habitat Assess ment and Burrow Survey for Menifee Asse mblage, Riv erside County, Cal ifornia. Report prepar ed for Woodside Homes.
_____. 20 06b. F ocused Least Bell’s Vireo and S outhwestern Willow Flycatcher Survey and Habitat Assessment for Yellow-Billed Cuckoo for the M enifee Assemblage Site, County of Riverside, California. Report prepared for Woodside Homes.
_____. 20 07. Focused Br eeding Seaso n Burrow ing Owl Hab itat Asses sment a nd B urrow Survey for Menifee Ass emblage, River side County, C alifornia. Report prepar ed fo r Woodside Homes.
_____. 2011 (201 2 & 2013 revis ions). R evised Up dated Biological Assessment, Burrowing Owl, and Jur isdictional Delineation Surveys for Tract 31194, Golden Meadows, City of Menifee, California. Report prepared for Richland Communities.
_____. 2013. Biological Assessmen t an d Bree ding Season Burrowing O wl Sur veys for TR 31194, Golden M eadows, City of Me nifee, Calif ornia. Report prepared f or Rich land Communities.
_____. 2017. Updated Biological A ssessment, Botanical, Burrowing Owl, and N esting R aptor Surveys for Tract 31194, Golden Meadows, City of Menifee, California. Report prepared for Richland Communities.
_____. 2018a . Focused Burrowing Ow l and Raptor Ne st Surveys for Tract 31194, Golden Meadows, City of Menifee, California. Report prepared for Richland Communities.
_____. 2018b. Updated Juri sdictional Delineation for TR 31194, Golden M eadows, Ci ty of Menifee, California. Report prepared for Richland Communities.
_____. 2019 a. Focused B urrowing Owl Survey for Tract 31194, Golden Meadow s, Ci ty of Menifee, California. Report prepared for Richland Communities.
_____. 2019b. Updated Jur isdictional Delineation for TR 31194, Golden Meadows, City of Menifee, California. Report prepared for Richland Communities.
Munz, Philip A. 1974. A Flora of Southern California. University of California Press, Berkeley, California.
NETRonline (Nationwide Environmental Title Research, LLC). 2021. Historical aerial images. https://www.historicaerials.com/viewer.
NRCS (Natural Resources Conservation Service). 2021. U.S. Department of Agriculture. Web Soil Survey. https://websoilsurvey.nrcs.usda.gov/
Parker, Robert et al . 1999. Weeds of the West . T he Western So ciety of Weed Science.
Newark, California. 630 pp.
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RCA (Western Riverside County Regional Conservation Authority). 2006. Burrowing Owl Survey Instructions for the Western Riverside County Multiple Species Habi tat Cons ervation Plan Area. http://www.wrc-rca.org/mshcp-species-survey-protocols/
_____. 2020. Status of Covered Speci es N ot Adequately Conserved . December 1 . http://www.wrc-rca.org/about-rca/annual-reports/
_____. 2021. Western Riverside County Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan Information Map. Accessed October 2021.
https://wrcrca.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=a73e69d2a64d41c29 ebd3acd67467abd
Recon. 1985. The Distribution, St atus, and Co nservation of Vernal Poo l an d Al kali Playa Wetlands of the Upper Salt Creek Drainage, Hemet, California.
Sawyer, John O., T. Keeler-Wolf, and J. M. Evens. 2009. A Manual of California Vegetation, 2nd Edition. California Native Plant Society, Sacramento, California. 1300 pp.
Schoenherr, Allan A. (editor). 1990. Endangered Plant Communities of Southern California.
Southern California Botanists, Claremont, California. 114 pp.
Small, Arnold. 1994. California Birds: Their Status and Distribution. Ibis Publishing Company, Vista, California. 342 pp.
Stebbins, R. C. 1985. Western Reptiles and Amphibians. Houghton Mifflin Company, Boston Mass.
T&B (T&B Pla nning Consultants, Inc. ). 2006. Final Environmental I mpact Report No. 458 .
Tentative Tract Map No . 31194, Change of Zone No. 06764, General Plan Amendment No 00729 (Sch No. 2003061122), Riverside County, California. Lead Agency: Riverside County Planning Department. Prepared for Woodside Homes. June 30, 2006.
USFWS (U. S. Fish and Wildl ife Service). 2021. Information for Pla nning and Consu ltation (IPaC). https://ecos.fws.gov/ipac/
_____. 2000. Guidelines for Conducting a nd Reporti ng Botanical Inventories for Federally Listed, P roposed an d Candidate Plant s. January.
https://www.fws.gov/ventura/docs/species/protocols/botanicalinventories.pdf
_____. 1998. Draft Recovery Plan for the Least Bell’s Vireo. Portland, OR. 139 pp.
USGS (U. S. Geological Su rvey). 1979. Romoland, California 7.5-Minute topographic map.
USGS, Denver, Colorado.
WRCC (W estern Regional Climate Center). 2018. Precipitation Maps : PRISM Pre cipitation Maps 1981-2010. https://wrcc.dri.edu/Climate/prism_precip_maps.php
_____. 2021. Monthly Summary Time Seri es Precipitation Data f or the Clark, Sage, an d Cranston Remote Automated Weather Stations. https://wrcc.dri.edu/
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Zeiner, D.C., W. F. Laudenslayer, Jr., K. E. Mayer, and M. White, eds. 1990. California's Wildlife: Birds. California Department of Fish and Game, Sacramento, California.
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APPENDIX A: PLANT AND WILDLIFE SPECIES
Plant and wildlife species identified on the Go lden Meadows site during surveys from 2003 to 2021. One asterisk ( *) in dicates a non -native speci es; two aste risks (**) indica tes a special status species; a question mark (?) i ndicates uncertainty regarding identification or native status. The list incl udes c ommon butterfly species that were observed during Quino checkerspot butterfly surveys in 2004 but does not represent a complete inventory of insects present.
Scientific Name Common Name
VASCULAR PLANTS
DICOTYLEDONS
ADOXACEAE MUSKROOT FAMILY
Sambucus nigra ssp. cerulea
(S. mexicana) Mexican elderberry, blue elderberry
AMARANTHACEAE AMARANTH FAMILY
* Amaranthus albus
Tumbleweed, tumbling pigweed
ANACARDIACEAE SUMAC or CASHEW FAMILY
* Schinus molle Peruvian pepper tree
APIACEAE CELERY FAMILY
Daucus pusillus Rattlesnake weed, wild carrot
ASTERACEAE ASTER FAMILY
Acourtia microcephala
(Perezia microcephala) Scapellote, perezia
Ambrosia acanthicarpa
Annual bur-sage, annual sandbur
* Anthemis cotula Mayweed, dog mayweed
Artemisia californica
California sagebrush
Baccharis salicifolia (B. glutinosa)
Mulefat
Bebbia juncea Sweetbush
* Centaurea melitensis Tocalote
Chaenactis artemisiifolia White pincushion, wormwood pincushion Corethrogyne filaginifolia var.
filaginifolia
(Lessingia filaginifolia)
California-aster, sand-aster
Deinandra fasciculata
(Hemizonia fasciculata) Fascicled tarplant, slender tarweed Encelia farinosa Brittlebush
*
Erigeron bonariensis
(Conyza bonariensis) Flax-leaved horseweed
Erigeron canadensis
(Conyza canadensis)
Horseweed, mare's tail
Eriophyllum confertiflorum Golden-yarrow
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Scientific Name Common Name
Eriophyllum multicaule Many-stem woolly daisy
Gutierrezia californica (G. bracteata) California matchweed Helianthus annuus
Western sunflower
Helianthus gracilentus Slender sunflower
* Lactuca serriola
Prickly lettuce
Lasthenia californica
(L. chrysostoma) California goldfields
Layia platyglossa Tidy-tips
Logfia filaginoides
(Filago californica) California filago
*
Matricaria discoidea
(Chamomilla suaveolens,
M. matricarioides) Pineapple weed
*
Oncosiphon pilulifer
(Matricaria globosa) Stinknet
Rafinesquia californica
California chicory
* Senecio vulgaris Common groundsel
* Sonchus oleraceus
Common sow thistle
Stephanomeria virgata Wreath plant
Stylocline gnaphaloides
Everlasting neststraw
Tetradymia comosa Hairy horsebrush, common-thorn
Uropappus lindleyi
(Microseris lindleyi, M.
linearifolia) Silverpuffs
*? Xanthium spinosum Spiny cocklebur
BORAGINACEAE BORAGE OR WATERLEAF FAMILY
Amsinckia intermedia
(A. menziesii var. intermedia) Large flower rancher's fiddleneck Cryptantha species
Unid. cryptantha
Cryptantha intermedia
Common cryptantha
Heliotropium curassavicum
Wild heliotrope
Pectocarya linearis Slender pectocarya
Phacelia minor
Wild Canterbury bells
Phacelia ramosissima Branching phacelia
Plagiobothrys species
Popcornflower
BRASSICACEAE MUSTARD FAMILY
* Brassica nigra Black mustard
* Hirschfeldia incana
(Brassica geniculata)
Shortpod mustard
Lepidium nitidum Shining peppergrass
* Raphanus sativus Wild radish
* Sisymbrium irio
London rocket
* Sisymbrium orientale Wild mustard, hare's ear cabbage Thysanocarpus curvipes Fringepod
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Scientific Name Common Name
CACTACEAE CACTUS FAMILY
Cylindropuntia californica var.
parkeri (Opuntia parryi) Valley cholla
CHENOPODIACEAE GOOSEFOOT FAMILY
* Atriplex suberecta Sprawling saltbush, Australian saltbush * Chenopodium murale Nettle-leaved goosefoot, lamb's quarters * Salsola tragus
Russian thistle
CONVOLVULACEAE MORNING-GLORY FAMILY
Calystegia macrostegia Morning-glory
Cuscuta californica Chaparral dodder, witch's hair
CRASSULACEAE STONECROP FAMILY
Crassula connata (C. erecta) Pygmy-weed, pygmy stonecrop
CUCURBITACEAE GOURD FAMILY, CUCUMBER FAMILY
Cucurbita foetidissima
Calabazilla
Marah macrocarpa
Chilicothe, wild cucumber
EUPHORBIACEAE SPURGE FAMILY
Croton setiger (C. setigerus,
Eremocarpus setiger, E.
setigerus)
Turkey-mullein, doveweed
Euphorbia albomarginata
(Chamaesyce albomarginata)
Rattlesnake sandmat, rattlesnake weed
FABACEAE LEGUME FAMILY, PEA FAMILY
Acmispon americanus
(Lotus purshianus, L.
unifoliatus) "Spanish" clover
Acmispon glaber
(Lotus scoparius) Deerweed
Lupinus species Unid. lupine
Lupinus bicolor Miniature lupine, dove lupine
* Medicago polymorpha California burclover
* Vicia villosa Winter vetch
FAGACEAE OAK FAMILY
Quercus agrifolia Coast live oak
GERANIACEAE GERANIUM FAMILY
* Erodium botrys Long-beak filaree
* Erodium cicutarium
Redstem filaree
JUGLANDACEAE WALNUT FAMILY
** Juglans californica Southern California black walnut Updated Biological Resources Assessment
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Scientific Name Common Name
LAMIACEAE MINT FAMILY
* Lamium amplexicaule Common henbit
* Marrubium vulgare
Horehound
Salvia apiana
White sage
Salvia columbariae
Chia
Salvia mellifera Black sage
Trichostema lanceolatum Vinegar weed
MALVACEAE MALLOW FAMILY
* Malva parviflora
Cheeseweed
MYRSINACEAE MYRSINE FAMILY
* Lysimachia (Anagallis) arvensis Scarlet pimpernel
MYRTACEAE MYRTLE FAMILY, EUCALYPTUS FAMILY
* Eucalyptus species
Ornamental eucalyptus, gumtree
NYCTAGINACEAE FOUR O'CLOCK FAMILY
Mirabilis laevis var. crassifolia
(M. californica) Wishbone bush
ONAGRACEAE EVENING-PRIMROSE FAMILY
Camissonia species
Unid. evening-primrose
Eulobus californica (Camissonia
californica)
California false mustard, mustard evening primrose
PAPAVERACEAE POPPY FAMILY
Eschscholzia californica California poppy
PHRYMACEAE LOPSEED FAMILY
Diplacus (Mimulus) aurantiacus
(M. puniceus, M. longiflorus) Bush monkeyflower, sticky monkeyflower Erythranthe (Mimulus) guttatus Seep monkeyflower
PLANTAGINACEAE PLANTAIN FAMILY
Antirrhinum nuttallianum Nuttall snapdragon, violet snapdragon Keckiella antirrhinoides Yellow bush-penstemon
Plantago erecta California plantain
POLEMONIACEAE PHLOX FAMILY
Eriastrum sapphirinum
Sapphire woollystar
Navarretia hamata Hooked navarretia
POLYGONACEAE BUCKWHEAT FAMILY
Chorizanthe fimbriata Fringed spineflower
**
Chorizanthe polygonoides var.
longispina Long-spined spineflower
Eriogonum fasciculatum
var. foliolosum
Leafy California wild buckwheat, interior California
buckwheat
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Scientific Name Common Name
Eriogonum fasciculatum
var. polifolium
Mojave Desert California buckwheat
* Polygonum aviculare (P. arenastrum) Common knotweed
* Rumex crispus Curly dock
PORTULACACEAE PURSLANE FAMILY
* Portulaca oleracea
Common purslane
ROSACEAE ROSE FAMILY
Adenostoma fasciculatum Chamise
RUBIACEAE MADDER FAMILY, COFFEE FAMILY
*? Galium aparine Goose grass, annual bedstraw
SALICACEAE WILLOW FAMILY
Populus fremontii ssp. fremontii
Fremont cottonwood
Salix gooddingii
Goodding's black willow
Salix lasiolepis Arroyo willow
SCROPHULARIACEAE FIGWORT FAMILY, SNAPDRAGON FAMILY
Scrophularia californica California figwort, coast figwort
SOLANACEAE NIGHTSHADE FAMILY
Datura wrightii (D. meteloides)
Jimsonweed, tolguacha
* Nicotiana glauca
Tree tobacco
Solanum americanum
(S. nodiflorum) White nightshade
TAMARICACEAE TAMARISK FAMILY
* Tamarix species
Unid. tamarisk
URTICACEAE NETTLE FAMILY
* Urtica urens Dwarf nettle
ZYGOPHYLLACEAE CALTROP FAMILY
* Tribulus terrestris
Puncture vine
MONOCOTYLEDONS
AGAVACEAE CENTURY PLANT FAMILY, AGAVE FAMILY
Hesperoyucca whipplei
(Yucca whipplei)
Chaparral yucca
LILIACEAE LILY FAMILY
Calochortus splendens Splendid mariposa lily
POACEAE GRASS FAMILY
* Avena barbata Slender wild oat
* Avena fatua Wild oat
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Scientific Name Common Name
* Bromus species Non-native brome
* Bromus diandrus (B. rigidus) Ripgut brome
* Bromus rubens
(B. madritensis ssp. rubens)
Red brome
* Digitaria sanguinalis Hairy crabgrass
* Festuca species (Vulpia species) Annual fescue
* Hordeum murinum Wall barley, hare barley
* Lamarckia aurea Goldentop grass
* Phalaris species Unid. canary grass
* Schismus barbatus Mediterranean grass
* Triticum aestivum Wheat
THEMIDACEAE BRODIAEA FAMILY
Dichelostemma capitatum
(D. pulchella, Brodiaea pulchella)
Blue dicks, wild hyacinth
Muilla maritima Common muilla, rough muilla
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Scientific Name Common Name
VERTEBRATES
Reptiles
Colubridae Colubrid Snakes
Pituophis catenifer
Gopher snake
Phrynosomatidae Spiny Lizards
** Phrynosoma blainvillii Coast horned lizard
Sceloporus occidentalis Western fence lizard
Sceloporus orcutti Granite spiny lizard
Uta stansburiana Side-blotched lizard
Teiidae Teiid Lizards
** Aspidoscelis hyperythra Orange-throated whiptail
** Aspidoscelis tigris stejnegeri Coastal (western) whiptail
Birds
Accipitridae Hawks, Eagles, and Harriers
** Accipiter cooperii
Cooper's hawk
Buteo jamaicensis Red-tailed hawk
Buteo lineatus Red-shouldered hawk
** Circus hudsonius (C. cyaneus) Northern harrier
** Elanus leucurus White-tailed kite
Aegithalidae Long-tailed Tits
Psaltriparus minimus Bushtit
Alaudidae Larks
** Eremophila alpestris actia California horned lark
Anatidae Ducks, Geese, Swans
Anas platyrhynchos Mallard (fly over)
Apodidae Swifts
Aeronautes saxatalis White-throated swift
Ardeidae Herons
** Ardea alba Great egret
** Ardea herodias Great blue heron (fly over)
Cardinalidae Cardinals
Passerina amoena Lazuli bunting
Cathartidae Vultures
Cathartes aura Turkey vulture
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Charadriidae Plovers
Charadrius vociferus Killdeer
Columbidae Pigeons and Doves
* Columba livia Rock dove, common pigeon
Zenaida macroura Mourning dove
Corvidae Crows and Jays
Aphelocoma californica California scrub jay
Corvus brachyrhynchos American crow
Corvus corax Common raven
Cuculidae Cuckoos
Geococcyx californianus Greater roadrunner
Falconidae Falcons
Falco sparverius American kestrel
Fringillidae Finches
** Spinus (Carduelis) lawrencei Lawrence's goldfinch
Spinus (Carduelis) psaltria Lesser goldfinch
Spinus (Carduelis) tristes American goldfinch
Haemorhous (Carpodacus) mexicanus House finch
Hirundinidae Swallows
Hirundo rustica Barn swallow
Petrochelidon pyrrhonota tachina Cliff swallow
Stelgidopteryx serripennis Northern rough-winged swallow Tachycineta thalassina Violet-green swallow
Icteridae Blackbirds
Agelaius phoeniceus Red-winged blackbird
Euphagus cyanocephalus Brewer's blackbird
Icterus bullockii Bullock's oriole
Sturnella neglecta Western meadowlark
Laniidae Shrikes
** Lanius ludovicianus Loggerhead shrike
Mimidae Mockingbirds
Mimus polyglottos Northern mockingbird
** Toxostoma redivivum California thrasher
Motacillidae Wagtails and Pipits
Anthus rubescens American pipit
Odontophoridae Quail
Callipepla californica California quail
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Parulidae Wood Warblers
Geothlypis tolmiei MacGillivray's warbler
Oreothlypis celata Orange-crowned warbler
Setophaga coronata Yellow-rumped warbler
Passerellidae New World Sparrows
** Aimophila ruficeps canescens Southern California rufous-crowned sparrow ** Artemisiospiza belli Bell's sage sparrow
Chondestes grammacus Lark sparrow
Melospiza melodia Song sparrow
Melozone crissalis California towhee
Passerculus sandwichensis Savannah sparrow
Pipilo maculatus Spotted towhee
Pooecetes gramineus Vesper sparrow
Spizella passerina Chipping sparrow
Zonotrichia leucophrys White-crowned sparrow
Passeridae Old World Sparrows
* Passer domesticus House sparrow
Picidae Woodpeckers
Colaptes auratus Northern flicker
** Dryobates (Picoides) nuttallii Nuttall's woodpecker
Polioptilidae Gnatcatchers
Polioptila caerulea Blue-gray gnatcatcher
** Polioptila californica Coastal California gnatcatcher
Strigidae Owls
** Athene cunicularia Burrowing owl
Sturnidae Starlings
* Sturnus vulgaris European starling
Timaliidae Babblers
** Chamaea fasciata Wrentit
Trochilidae Hummingbirds
Calypte anna Anna's hummingbird
** Calypte costae Costa's hummingbird
** Selasphorus rufus Rufous hummingbird
Troglodytidae Wrens
Catherpes mexicanus Canyon wren
Salpinctes obsoletus Rock wren
Thryomanes bewickii Bewick's wren
Troglodytes aedon House wren
Turdidae Thrushes
Sialia mexicana Western bluebird
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Tyrannidae Tyrant Flycatchers
Empidonax wrightii Gray flycatcher
Myiarchus cinerascens Ash-throated flycatcher
Sayornis nigricans Black phoebe
Sayornis saya Say's phoebe
Tyrannus verticalis Western kingbird
Tyrannus vociferans Cassin's kingbird
Mammals
Canidae Dogs, Foxes, and Coyotes
Canis familiaris Domestic dog
Canis latrans Coyote
Geomyidae Pocket Gophers
Thomomys bottae Botta's pocket gopher (sign)
Leporidae Rabbits
** Lepus californicus bennettii San Diego black-tailed jackrabbit Sylvilagus audubonii Audubon's cottontail
Sciuridae Squirrels
Spermophilus beecheyi California ground squirrel
INVERTEBRATES
Lepidoptera Butterflies and Moths
Papilionidae Swallowtails
Papilio rutulus Western tiger swallowtail
Papilio zelicaon Anise swallowtail
Nymphalidae Brush-footed butterflies
Euphydryas chalcedona Chalcedon checkerspot
Junonia coenia Buckeye
Vanessa cardui Painted lady
Vanessa annabella West coast lady
Vanessa virginiensis Virginia lady
Lycaenidae Blues, Hairstreaks, Coppers
Glaucopsyche lygdamus australis Southern blue
Icaricia acmon Acmon blue
Pieridae Whites and Sulfurs
Anthocharis sara Sara orange-tip
Anthocharis cethura Felder's orange-tip
Pontia protodice Checkered white
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Riodinidae Metalmarks
Apodemia mormo virgulti Behr's metalmark
Hesperiidae Skippers
Erynnis funeralis Funereal duskywing
Pyrgus communis albescens Small checkered skipper
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APPENDIX B: SPECIAL STATUS SPECIES POTENTIALS FOR OCCURRENCE Species
Growth Form,
Habitat and Distribution
Flowering
Season
Conservation
Status Potential for Occurrence
Plants
Abronia villosa var. aurita
Chaparral sand-verbena
Annual herb. Sandy soils in chaparral, coastal
scrub, desert dunes at 75-1600m elevation.
Riverside, San Bernardino, Imperial, San Diego,
Orange Cos. (presumed extirpated in Orange
Co.), Arizona, Baja.
(Jan)Mar-
Sep
Fed: None
Calif: S2
CRPR: 1B.1
Low; potentially suitable habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Allium marvinii
Yucaipa onion
Perennial bulbiferous herb. Clay soils in openings
in chaparral at 760-1065m. Riverside, San
Bernardino, Orange, San Diego Cos.
Apr-May
Fed: None
Calif: S1
CRPR: 1B.2
MSHCP: AC b
USFS: S
Not expected; potentially suitable habitat, below
elevation range, no documented occurrences within 5
mi., not observed during surveys.
Allium munzii
Munz’s onion
Perennial bulbiferous herb. Mesic, clay soils in
chaparral, cismontane woodland, coastal scrub,
pinyon juniper woodland, valley and foothill
grassland at 297-1070m elevation. Western
Riverside Co.
Mar-May
Fed: END
Calif: THR, S1
CRPR: 1B.1
MSHCP: AC b
Low; no or marginal habitat, three documented
occurrences within 5 mi. (from 1897, Menifee area –
exact location unknown, mapped 4.5 mi. NE of site;
1962, exact location unknown, mapped 2.7 mi. NW;
from 2015, 2.5 mi. SE), not observed during surveys.
Almutaster pauciflorus
Alkali marsh aster
Perennial herb. Alkaline soils in meadows and
seeps at 240 to 800m elevation. Inyo, Kern,
Riverside, and San Bernardino Cos., SW and
North-Central US, and Mexico.
Jun-Oct
Fed: None
Calif: S1S2
CRPR: 2B.2
Not expected; no or marginal habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Ambrosia pumila
San Diego ambrosia
Perennial rhizomatous herb. Sandy or clay soils,
often in disturbed areas, sometimes alkaline.
Chaparral, coastal scrub, valley and foothill
grassland, and vernal pools at 20-415m elevation.
Riverside, San Diego Co., Baja.
Apr-Oct
Fed: END
Calif: S1
CRPR: 1B.1
MSHCP: AC b
Not expected; potentially suitable habitat, above
elevation range, no documented occurrences within 5
mi., not observed during surveys.
Amsinckia douglasiana
Douglas’ fiddleneck
Annual herb. Monterey shale, dry soils in
cismontane woodland, valley and foothill
grassland at sea level to 1950m elevation.
Central coast of CA, few observations in southern
CA. Not tracked in the CNDDB.
Mar-May
Fed: None
Calif: S4
CRPR: 4.2
Not expected; no or marginal habitat, no mapped
CCH records within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
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Species
Growth Form,
Habitat and Distribution
Flowering
Season
Conservation
Status Potential for Occurrence
Arctostaphylos rainbowensis
Rainbow manzanita
Perennial evergreen shrub. Chaparral at 205-
670m elevation. Riverside and San Diego Cos. Dec-Mar
Fed: None
Calif: S2
CRPR: 1B.1
MSHCP: AC
BLM: S
USFS: S
Absent; potentially suitable habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., conspicuous plant not
observed during surveys.
Astragalus pachypus var. jaegeri
Jaeger’s milk-vetch
Perennial shrub. Sandy or rocky soils in
chaparral, cismontane woodland, coastal scrub,
valley and foothill grassland at 365-975m
elevation. Riverside and San Diego Cos.
Dec-Jun
Fed: None
Calif: S1
CRPR: 1B.1
MSHCP: AC
USFS: S
BLM: S
Low; potentially suitable habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Atriplex coronata var. notatior
San Jacinto Valley crownscale
Annual herb. Alkaline soils in playas, mesic areas
of valley and foothill grassland, vernal pools at
139-500m elevation. Western Riverside Co.
Apr-Aug
Fed: END
Calif: S1
CRPR: 1B.1
MSHCP: AC d
Not expected; no suitable habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi. not observed during surveys.
Atriplex parishii
Parish’s brittlescale
Annual herb. Alkaline soils in chenopod scrub,
playas, vernal pools at 25-1900m elevation;
Riverside, San Bernardino, LA, Orange, and San
Diego Cos. and Baja. Presumed extirpated in LA,
Orange, and San Bernardino Cos.
Jun - Oct
Fed: None
Calif: S1
CRPR: 1B.1
MSHCP: AC d
USFS: S
Not expected; no suitable habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Atriplex serenana var.
davidsonii
Davidson's saltscale
Annual herb. Alkaline soils in coastal bluff scrub,
coastal scrub at 10-200m elevation; Channel
Islands, LA, Orange, Riverside, San Luis Obispo,
Santa Barbara, and Ventura Cos. Presumed
extirpated in Santa Barbara Co., possibly
extirpated in LA Co.
Apr - Oct
Fed: None
Calif: S1
CRPR: 1B.2
MSHCP: AC d
Not expected; no suitable habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Ayenia compacta
California ayenia
Perennial herb. Rocky soils in Mojavean and
Sonoran desert scrub at 150-1095m elevation.
Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego Cos.,
Arizona, Sonora and Baja Mexico.
Mar-Apr
Fed: None
Calif: S3
CRPR: 2B.3
Absent; no suitable habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Updated Biological Resources Assessment
Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California December 2021 RLCC-03-R187.BA5.BO11.NB4.BS2.LS1.rev3 87 L&L
Species
Growth Form,
Habitat and Distribution
Flowering
Season
Conservation
Status Potential for Occurrence
Brodiaea filifolia
Thread-leaved brodiaea
Perennial bulbiferous herb. Often on clay soils in
chaparral openings, cismontane woodland,
coastal scrub, playas, valley and foothill
grassland, and vernal pools at 25-1120m
elevation. LA, Orange, Riverside, San
Bernardino, and San Diego Cos.; scattered in
Southern CA foothills & valleys.
Mar-Jun
Fed: THR
Calif: END, S2
CRPR: 1B.1
MSHCP: AC d
Not expected; no or marginal habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Brodiaea santarosae
Santa Rosa Basalt brodiaea
Perennial bulbiferous herb. Basalt in valley and
foothill grassland. Santa Rosa Plateau, Riverside
and San Diego Cos.
May-Jun
Fed: None
Calif: S1
CRPR: 1B.2
USFS: S
Absent; no suitable habitat, outside geographic
range, no documented occurrences within 5 mi., not
observed during surveys.
Calochortus catalinae
Catalina mariposa-lily
Perennial bulbiferous herb. Chaparral,
cismontane woodland, coastal scrub, valley and
foothill grassland at 15-700m elevation. LA,
Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, Santa
Barbara, Ventura Co, some Channel Islands. Not
tracked in CNDDB.
(Feb)Mar-
Jun
Fed: None
Calif: S3S4
CRPR: 4.2
Low; potentially suitable habitat, no mapped CCH
records within 5 mi., not observed during surveys.
Calochortus plummerae
Plummer’s mariposa lily
Perennial bulbiferous herb. Granitic rocky soils in
chaparral, cismontane woodland, coastal scrub,
lower montane coniferous forest, valley and
foothill grassland at 100-1700m elevation. LA,
Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego,
Ventura Cos.
May-Jul
Fed: None
Calif: S4
CRPR: 4.2
MSHCP: AC
Low; potentially suitable habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Calochortus weedii var. intermedius
Intermediate mariposa lily
Perennial bulbiferous herb. Rocky, calcareous
soils in chaparral, coastal scrub, valley and
foothill grassland at 105-855m elevation. LA,
Orange, San Bernardino, and western Riverside
Co.
May-Jul
Fed: None
Calif: S3
CRPR: 1B.2
USFS: S
MSHCP: AC
Low; potentially suitable habitat, two documented
occurrences within 5 mi. (2003, 3.5 mi. S; 2015, 4.2
mi. SE), not observed during surveys.
Carex buxbaumii
Buxbaum’s sedge
Perennial rhizomatous herb. Bogs and fens,
mesic meadows and seeps, marshes and
swamps at 3-3300m elevation. Most of US,
northern CA, one occurrence reported near Lake
Elsinore in Riverside Co. Not tracked in CNDDB.
Mar-Aug
Fed: None
Calif: S3
CRPR: 4.2
Absent; no suitable habitat, no mapped CCH records
within 5 mi., not observed during surveys.
Updated Biological Resources Assessment
Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California December 2021 RLCC-03-R187.BA5.BO11.NB4.BS2.LS1.rev3 88 L&L
Species
Growth Form,
Habitat and Distribution
Flowering
Season
Conservation
Status Potential for Occurrence
Caulanthus simulans
Payson’s jewelflower
Annual herb. Chaparral, coastal scrub at 90-
2200m elevation. North-facing slopes and
ridgelines on sandy-granitic soils, frequently on
steep rocky slopes, in burned areas, or disturbed
sites such as streambeds. Orange, western
Riverside, San Diego Cos.
(Feb)Mar-
May(Jun)
Fed: None
Calif: S4
CRPR: 4.2
MSHCP: AC
Not expected; no or marginal habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Centromadia pungens ssp. laevis
Smooth tarplant
Annual herb. Alkaline soils in chenopod scrub,
meadows and seeps, playas, riparian woodland,
valley and foothill grassland at 0-640m elevation.
Also fallow fields, drainage ditches; mainly in SW
Riverside Co., a few sites in interior valleys of LA,
San Bernardino, San Diego Cos.
Apr-Sep
Fed: None
Calif: S2
CRPR: 1B.1
MSHCP: AC d
Moderate; potentially suitable habitat, 11 documented
occurrences within 5 mi. (1999 thru 2021, closest is
0.7 mi. NNW), not observed during surveys.
Chorizanthe leptotheca
Peninsular spineflower
Annual herb. Granitic soils and alluvial fans in
chaparral, coastal scrub, lower montane
coniferous forest at 300-1900m elevation.
Riverside, San Bernardino, LA, San Diego, Kern,
San Luis Obispo Cos., Baja. Not tracked in the
CNDDB.
May-Aug
Fed: None
Calif: S3
CRPR: 4.2
MSHCP: AC
Not expected; no or marginal habitat, one mapped
CCH record within 5 mi. (1893, mapped 2.1 mi. NE),
not observed during surveys.
Chorizanthe parryi var. parryi
Parry's spineflower
Annual herb. Sandy or rocky soils and openings
in chaparral, cismontane woodland, coastal
scrub, valley and foothill grassland at 275-1220m
elev. LA, Riverside, San Bernardino Cos.
Apr-Jun
Fed: None
Calif: S2
CRPR: 1B.1
USFS: S
BLM: S
MSHCP: AC
Moderate; potentially suitable habitat, 18 documented
occurrences within 5 mi. (1998 thru 2017, closest is
0.9 mi. SW), not observed during surveys.
Chorizanthe polygonoides var.
longispina
Long-spined spineflower
Annual herb. Often on clay soils in chaparral,
coastal scrub, meadows and seeps, valley and
foothill grassland, vernal pools at 30-1530m
elevation. Orange, Riverside, San Diego Cos.,
Baja.
Apr-Jul
Fed: None
Calif: S3
CRPR: 1B.2
MSHCP: AC
Occurs; observed on site during surveys in 2017.
Clinopodium chandleri
San Miguel savory
Perennial shrub. Rocky, gabbroic, or
metavolcanic soils in chaparral, cismontane
woodlands, coastal scrub, riparian woodland,
valley and foothill grassland at 120-1075m
elevation. Orange, Riverside, San Diego Co.,
Baja.
Mar-Jul
Fed: None
Calif: S2
CRPR: 1B.2
MSHCP: AC b
BLM: S
USFS: S
Not expected; no or marginal habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Updated Biological Resources Assessment
Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California December 2021 RLCC-03-R187.BA5.BO11.NB4.BS2.LS1.rev3 89 L&L
Species
Growth Form,
Habitat and Distribution
Flowering
Season
Conservation
Status Potential for Occurrence
Convolvulus simulans
Small-flowered morning-glory
Annual herb. Clay soils, serpentinite seeps,
chaparral openings, coastal scrub, valley and
foothill grassland at 30-740m elevation. LA,
Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego
Cos. and Central CA, Baja. Not tracked in
CNDDB.
Mar-Jul
Fed: None
Calif: S4
CRPR: 4.2
MSHCP: AC
Low to moderate; potentially suitable habitat, nine
mapped CCH records within 5 mi. (1991-2018, all
about 2.5 mi. SE), not observed during surveys.
Cryptantha wigginsii
Wiggins’ cryptantha
Annual herb. Coastal scrub at 20-275m elevation,
often on clay soils. LA, Riverside, San Diego
Cos., Catalina Island, and Baja.
Feb-Jun
Fed: None
Calif: S1
CRPR: 1B.2
Not expected; potentially suitable habitat, above
elevation range, no documented occurrences within 5
mi., not observed during surveys.
Deinandra (Hemizonia) paniculata
Paniculate tarplant
Annual herb. Usually vernally mesic areas,
sometimes sandy. Coastal scrub, valley and
foothill grassland, vernal pools at 25-940m
elevation. LA, Orange, Riverside, San
Bernardino, San Diego, Ventura, Kern, Santa
Barbara, San Luis Obispo Cos., Baja. Not tracked
in the CNDDB.
(Mar)
Apr-Nov
Fed: None
Calif: S4
CRPR: 4.2
Low; potentially suitable or marginal habitat, no
documented occurrences within 5 mi., not observed
during surveys.
Dodecahema leptoceras
Slender-horned spineflower
Annual herb. Open, sandy alluvial benches in
valleys & canyons. Chaparral, coastal scrub
(alluvial fans), cismontane woodland at 200-760m
elevation. LA, Riverside, San Bernardino Cos.
Apr-Jun
Fed: END
Calif: END, S1
CRPR: 1B.1
MSHCP: AC b
Not expected; no suitable habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Dudleya multicaulis
Many-stemmed dudleya
Perennial herb. Often on clay soils in chaparral,
coastal scrub, valley and foothill grassland at 15-
790m elevation. LA, Orange, Riverside, San
Bernardino, San Diego Cos.
Apr-Jul
Fed: None
Calif: S2
CRPR: 1B.2
USFS: S
MSHCP: AC b
Not expected; no or marginal habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Eryngium aristulatum var. parishii
San Diego button-celery
Annual/perennial herb. Mesic areas in coastal
scrub, valley and foothill grassland, vernal pools
at 20-620m elevation. Riverside, LA, Orange, San
Diego Cos. and Baja.
Apr-Jun
Fed: END
Calif: END, S1
CRPR: 1B.1
MSHCP: AC
Not expected; no or marginal habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Erythranthe diffusa
Palomar monkeyflower
Annual herb. Sandy or gravelly soils in chaparral,
lower montane coniferous forest at 1220-1830m
elevation. Orange, Riverside, San Diego Co.,
Baja. Not tracked in the CNDDB.
Apr-Jun
Fed: None
Calif: S3
CRPR: 4.3
Absent; no or marginal habitat, well below elevation
range, no mapped CCH records within 5 mi., not
observed during surveys.
Geothallus tuberosus
Campbell’s liverwort
Ephemeral liverwort. Grows on soil in mesic
coastal scrub, vernal pools at 10-600m elevation.
Riverside and San Diego Cos.
Not
applicable
Fed: None
Calif: S2
CRPR: 1B.1
Absent; no suitable habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Updated Biological Resources Assessment
Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California December 2021 RLCC-03-R187.BA5.BO11.NB4.BS2.LS1.rev3 90 L&L
Species
Growth Form,
Habitat and Distribution
Flowering
Season
Conservation
Status Potential for Occurrence
Harpagonella palmeri
Palmer’s grapplinghook
Annual herb. Clay soils and open grassy areas
within shrubland in chaparral, coastal scrub,
valley and foothill grassland at 20-955m
elevation. LA, Orange, Riverside, San Diego Co.,
Catalina Island, AZ, Baja and Sonora, Mexico.
Mar-May
Fed: None
Calif: S3
CRPR: 4.2
MSHCP: AC
Not expected; no or marginal habitat, one
documented occurrence within 5 mi. (1981, 2.4 mi.
SE), not observed during surveys.
Hesperocyparis forbesii
Tecate cypress
Perennial evergreen tree. Clay, gabbroic, or
metavolcanic soils in closed-cone coniferous
forest, chaparral at 80-1500m elevation. Orange,
Riverside, San Diego Co., Baja.
Not
applicable
Fed: None
Calif: S2
CRPR: 1B.1
Absent; no or marginal habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., conspicuous plant not
observed during surveys.
Holocarpha virgata ssp. elongata
Graceful (curving) tarplant
Annual herb. Chaparral, cismontane woodland,
coastal scrub, valley and foothill grassland at 60-
1100m elevation. Orange, Riverside, San Diego
Cos. Known in Riverside County only from the
Santa Rosa Plateau. Not tracked in CNDDB.
May-Nov
Fed: None
Calif: S3
CRPR: 4.2
MSHCP: AC
Not expected; potentially suitable habitat, outside
geographic range, no mapped CCH records within 5
mi., not observed during surveys.
Hordeum intercedens
Vernal barley
Annual grass. Saline flats and depressions in
valley and foothill grassland, vernal pools, coastal
dunes, coastal scrub at 5-1000m elevation. LA,
Orange, Riverside, San Diego Cos., Central CA,
Channel Islands. Not tracked in the CNDDB.
Mar-Jun
Fed: None
Calif: S3S4
CRPR: 3.2
MSHCP: AC
Absent; no suitable habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Juglans californica
Southern California black walnut
Perennial deciduous tree. Alluvial soils in
chaparral, cismontane woodland, coastal scrub,
riparian woodland at 50-900m elevation. LA,
Orange, Riverside, Santa Barbara, San
Bernardino, San Diego, Ventura Cos., Central
and Northern CA. Not tracked in CNDDB.
Mar-Aug
Fed: None
Calif: S4
CRPR: 4.2
MSHCP: AC
Occurs; observed onsite during surveys.
Juncus acutus ssp. leopoldii
Southwestern spiny rush
Perennial rhizomatous herb. Mesic coastal dunes,
alkaline seeps, coastal salt marshes at 3-900m
elevation. S CA, central coast, AZ, NV, other
areas. Not tracked in CNDDB.
(Mar)May-
Jun
Fed: None
Calif: S4
CRPR: 4.2
Absent; no suitable habitat, no mapped CCH records
within 5 mi., not observed during surveys.
Juncus luciensis
Santa Lucia dwarf rush
Annual herb. Chaparral, Great Basin scrub, lower
montane coniferous forest, meadows and seeps,
vernal pools at 300-2040m elevation. Riverside
and San Diego Cos., central and northern CA.
Apr-Jul
Fed: None
Calif: S3
CRPR: 1B.2
USFS: S
Not expected; no or marginal habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Updated Biological Resources Assessment
Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California December 2021 RLCC-03-R187.BA5.BO11.NB4.BS2.LS1.rev3 91 L&L
Species
Growth Form,
Habitat and Distribution
Flowering
Season
Conservation
Status Potential for Occurrence
Lasthenia glabrata spp. coulteri
Coulter’s goldfields
Annual herb. Coastal salt marshes and swamps,
playas, vernal pools at 1-1220m elevation.
Riverside, San Bernardino, LA, Orange, Ventura
Cos., Central and Northern CA, Baja. Presumed
extirpated in LA, San Bernardino Cos.
Feb-Jun
Fed: None
Calif: S2
CRPR: 1B.1
BLM: S
MSHCP: AC d
Absent; no suitable habitat, three documented
occurrences within 5 mi. (2003, 1.7 mi. N, appears to
be developed; 2011, 3.3 mi. SE; 2015, 2.7 mi. NW),
not observed during surveys.
Lathyrus splendens
Pride-of-California
Perennial herb. Chaparral at 200-1525m
elevation. LA, Riverside, San Bernardino Cos.,
Baja. Not tracked in CNDDB.
Mar-Jun
Fed: None
Calif: S4
CRPR: 4.3
Not expected; potentially marginal habitat, no
mapped CCH records within 5 mi., not observed
during surveys.
Lepidium virginicum var. robinsonii
Robinson's pepper-grass
Annual herb. Chaparral, coastal scrub at 1-885m
elevation. LA, Orange, Riverside, San
Bernardino, San Diego, Ventura, Santa Barbara,
Mono Cos., Channel Islands, Baja.
Jan-Jul
Fed: None
Calif: S3
CRPR: 4.3
Low; potentially suitable habitat, two documented
occurrences within 5 mi. (2006, 2.0 mil SSW; 2008,
3.3 mi. N), not observed during surveys.
Lilium humboldtii ssp. ocellatum
Ocellated Humboldt lily
Perennial bulbiferous herb. Openings in
chaparral, cismontane woodland, coastal scrub,
lower montane coniferous forest, riparian
woodland at 30-1800m elevation. LA, Orange,
Riverside, Santa Barbara, San Bernardino, San
Diego, Ventura Co, some Channel Islands. Lower
stream benches in riparian corridors in lower
montane coniferous forest and coastal chaparral
or shaded, dry slopes beneath a dense oak or
conifer canopy.
Mar-
Jul(Aug)
Fed: None
Calif: S4?
CRPR: 4.2
MSHCP: NAC f
Absent; no suitable habitat, no mapped CCH records
within 5 mi., not observed during surveys.
Lilium parryi
Lemon lily
Perennial bulbiferous herb. Mesic soils in upper
and lower montane coniferous forest, riparian
forest, meadows and seeps at 1220-2745m
elevation. LA, Riverside, San Bernardino, San
Diego Co, Arizona, Sonora Mex.
Jul-Aug
Fed: None
Calif: S3
CRPR: 1B.2
USFS: S
MSHCP: NAC f
Absent; no suitable habitat, well below elevation
range, no documented occurrences within 5 mi., not
observed during surveys.
Limnanthes alba ssp. parishii
Parish’s meadowfoam
Annual herb. Vernally mesic areas in lower
montane coniferous forest, meadows and seeps,
vernal pools at 600-2000m elevation. Riverside
and San Diego Cos.
Apr-Jun
Fed: None
Calif: END, S2
CRPR: 1B.2
USFS: S
BLM: S
MSHCP: AC
Absent; no suitable habitat, below elevation range, no
documented occurrences within 5 mi., not observed
during surveys.
Updated Biological Resources Assessment
Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California December 2021 RLCC-03-R187.BA5.BO11.NB4.BS2.LS1.rev3 92 L&L
Species
Growth Form,
Habitat and Distribution
Flowering
Season
Conservation
Status Potential for Occurrence
Microseris douglasii ssp. platycarpha
Small-flowered microseris
Annual herb. Clay soils in cismontane woodland,
coastal scrub, valley and foothill grassland, vernal
pools at 15-1070m elevation. LA, Orange,
Riverside, San Diego Cos., Channel Islands,
Baja. Not tracked in CNDDB.
Mar-May
Fed: None
Calif: S4
CRPR: 4.2
MSHCP: AC
Low; potentially suitable habitat, eight mapped CCH
records within 5 mi. (2000, 1.5 mi. N, 1996, 2.7 mi.
WSW; 1992-2015, all about 2.5 mi. SE), not observed
during surveys.
Monardella hypoleuca ssp. intermedia
Intermediate monardella
Perennial rhizomatous herb. Chaparral,
cismontane woodlands, sometimes lower
montane coniferous forest at 400-1250m
elevation. Orange, Riverside, San Diego Co.
Apr-Sep
Fed: None
Calif: S2?
CRPR: 1B.3
Not expected; potentially marginal habitat, no
documented occurrences within 5 mi., not observed
during surveys.
Myosurus minimus ssp. apus
Little mousetail
Annual herb. Valley and foothill grasslands,
alkaline vernal pools at 20-640m elevation.
Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego Cos.,
Central and Northern CA, Oregon, Baja.
Mar-Jun
Fed: None
Calif: S2
CRPR: 3.1
MSHCP: AC d
Absent; no suitable habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Nama stenocarpa
Mud nama
Annual/perennial herb. Found in marshy habitat
on lake margins and riverbanks at 5-500m
elevation. S CA, San Clemente Island, central
CA, AZ, TX, Baja, Sonora.
Mar-Oct
Fed: None
Calif: S1S2
CRPR: 2B.2
MSHCP: AC d
Absent; no suitable habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Navarretia fossalis
Spreading navarretia
Annual herb. Chenopod scrub, shallow freshwater
marshes and swamps, playas, vernal pools at 30-
655m elevation. LA, Riverside, San Diego, San
Luis Obispo Cos., Baja.
Apr-Jun
Fed: THR
Calif: S2
CRPR: 1B.1
MSHCP: AC b
Absent; no suitable habitat six documented
occurrences within 5 mi. (1922, exact location
unknown, mapped 1.0 mi. SE; 2001-2017, closest is
1.6 mi. N, appears to have been developed), not
observed during surveys.
Navarretia prostrata
Prostrate vernal pool navarretia
Annual herb. Mesic areas in coastal scrub, valley
and foothill grassland (alkaline), meadows and
seeps, vernal pools at 3-1210m elevation.
Locations in northern, central, and southern CA.
Apr-Jun
Fed: None
Calif: S2
CRPR: 1B.2
MSHCP: AC d
Absent; no suitable habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Orcuttia californica
California Orcutt grass
Annual grass. Vernal pools at 15-660m elevation.
LA, Orange, Riverside, San Diego, Ventura Co.,
Baja.
Apr-Aug
Fed: END
Calif: END, S1
CRPR: 1B.1
MSHCP: AC b
Absent; no suitable habitat, three documented
occurrences within 5 mi. (1941, exact location
unknown, mapped 1.2 mi. NNE, possibly extirpated;
2001, 1.8 mi. ESE; 2015, 1.8 mi. E), not observed
during surveys.
Polygala cornuta var. fishiae
Fish’s milkwort
Perennial deciduous shrub. Chaparral,
cismontane woodland, riparian woodlands at 100-
1000m elevation. LA, Orange, Riverside, Santa
Barbara, San Diego, and Ventura Co., Baja. Not
tracked in CNDDB.
May-Aug
Fed: None
Calif: S4
CRPR: 4.3
MSHCP: AC
Absent; potentially marginal habitat, no mapped CCH
records within 5 mi., not observed during surveys.
Updated Biological Resources Assessment
Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California December 2021 RLCC-03-R187.BA5.BO11.NB4.BS2.LS1.rev3 93 L&L
Species
Growth Form,
Habitat and Distribution
Flowering
Season
Conservation
Status Potential for Occurrence
Pseudognaphalium leucocephalum
White rabbit-tobacco
Perennial herb. Sandy or gravelly soils in
chaparral, cismontane woodland, coastal scrub,
riparian woodland at 0-2100m elevation. LA,
Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego,
Ventura Cos., AZ, NM, TX, Baja and Sonora Mex.
(Jul)Aug-
Nov(Dec)
Fed: None
Calif: S2
CRPR: 2B.2
Low; potentially suitable habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Quercus engelmannii
Engelmann oak
Perennial deciduous tree. Chaparral, cismontane
woodland, riparian woodland, valley and foothill
grassland at 50-1300m elevation. Mostly in
foothills of Orange, west Riverside, San
Bernardino, and San Diego Counties, also
southeast San Gabriel Mountain foothills (LA
County). Not tracked in the CNDDB.
Mar-Jun
Fed: None
Calif: S3
CRPR: 4.2
Absent; potentially suitable habitat, conspicuous plant not observed during surveys.
Romneya coulteri
Coulter’s matilija poppy
Large perennial rhizomatous herb. Often in burn
areas in chaparral, coastal scrub at 20-1200m
elevation. LA, Orange, Riverside, San
Bernardino, San Diego, San Luis Obispo Cos.
Not tracked in CNDDB.
Mar-
Jul(Aug)
Fed: None
Calif: S4
CRPR: 4.2
MSHCP: AC
Absent; no or marginal habitat, conspicuous plant not
observed during surveys.
Scutellaria bolanderi ssp.
austromontana
Southern mountains skullcap
Perennial rhizomatous herb. Mesic areas in
chaparral, cismontane woodland, lower montane
coniferous forest at 425-2000m elevation. Often
in meadows and along streams. LA, Riverside,
San Bernardino, San Diego Cos. Presumed
extirpated in LA and San Bernardino Cos.
Jun-Aug
Fed: None
Calif: S3
CRPR: 1B.2
USFS: S
Absent; no suitable habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Sibaropsis hammittii
Hammitt’s clay-cress
Annual herb. Clay soils in chaparral openings,
valley and foothill grassland at 720-1065m
elevation. Riverside and San Diego Co.
Mar-Apr
Fed: None
Calif: S2
CRPR: 1B.2
USFS: S
MSHCP: AC b
Absent; no or marginal habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., below elevation range, not
observed during surveys.
Sidalcea neomexicana
Salt spring checkerbloom
Perennial herb. Alkaline, mesic soils in chaparral,
coastal scrub, lower montane coniferous forest,
Mojavean desert scrub, playas at 15-1530m
elevation. Kern, LA, Orange, Riverside, San
Bernardino, San Diego, Ventura Cos., western
US, Sonora Mex. Presumed extirpated in LA Co.
Mar-Jun
Fed: None
Calif: S2
CRPR: 2B.2
USFS: S
Absent; no suitable habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Sphaerocarpos drewiae
Bottle liverwort
Ephemeral liverwort. Grows on soil in openings in
chaparral and coastal scrub at 90-600m
elevation. Riverside and San Diego Cos.
Not
applicable
Fed: None
Calif: S1
CRPR: 1B.1
Not expected; potentially suitable habitat, no
documented occurrences within 5 mi., not observed
during surveys.
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Species
Growth Form,
Habitat and Distribution
Flowering
Season
Conservation
Status Potential for Occurrence
Symphyotrichum defoliatum
San Bernardino aster
Perennial rhizomatous herb. Near ditches,
streams, springs in cismontane woodland, coastal
scrub, lower montane coniferous forest, meadows
and seeps, marshes and swamps, valley and
foothill grasslands (vernally mesic) at 2-2040m
elevation. LA, Orange, Riverside, San
Bernardino, San Diego, Imperial, Kern, Santa
Barbara, San Luis Obispo Cos.
Jul-Nov
Fed: None
Calif: S2
CRPR: 1B.2
USFS: S
BLM: S
Absent; no suitable habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Texosporium sancti-jacobi
Woven-spored lichen
Crustose lichen. Grows on soil, small mammal
pellets, dead twigs, and Selaginella species, in
chaparral openings at 60-660m elevation. LA,
Riverside, San Diego, Ventura, Santa Barbara,
San Benito Cos., San Clemente Island, ID, OR,
WA.
Not
applicable
Fed: None
Calif: S2
CRPR: 3
Not expected; no or marginal habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Tortula californica
California screw-moss
Moss. Sandy soil in chenopod scrub, valley and
foothill grassland at 10-1460m elevation. LA,
Riverside, San Diego, Ventura Cos., Central and
Northern CA, Channel Islands.
Not
applicable
Fed: None
Calif: S2?
CRPR: 1B.2
BLM: S
Absent; no suitable habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Trichocoronis wrightii var wrightii
Wright’s trichocoronis
Annual herb. Alkaline soils in meadows and
seeps, marshes and swamps, riparian forest,
vernal pools at 5-435m elevation. Riverside Co.,
Central Valley, TX, Baja.
May-Sep
Fed: None
Calif: S1
CRPR: 2B.1
MSHCP: AC b
Absent; no suitable habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Viguiera laciniata
San Diego County viguiera
Perennial shrub. Chaparral, coastal scrub at 60-
750m elevation. Riverside, Orange, San Diego
Cos (occurrences outside of San Diego Co are
introduced), Baja and Sonora, Mexico. Not
tracked in CNDDB.
Feb-
Jun(Aug)
Fed: None
Calif: S4
CRPR: 4.3
Absent; potentially suitable habitat, no mapped CCH
records within 5 mi., not observed during surveys.
References: CDFW (2021a, 2021c), USFWS (2021), CNPS (2021), Dudek (2003), RCA (2020)
Updated Biological Resources Assessment
Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California December 2021 RLCC-03-R187.BA5.BO11.NB4.BS2.LS1.rev3 95 L&L
Species Habitat and Distribution
Conservation
Status Potential for Occurrence
Invertebrates
Bombus crotchii
Crotch bumble bee
Coastal CA E to Sierra-Cascade crest & S into Mexico.
Open grassland and scrub habitats. Food plant genera
include Antirrhinum, Asclepias, Chaenactis, Lupinus,
Medicago, Salvia, Phacelia, Clarkia, Dendromecon,
Eschscholzia, and Eriogonum. Lives in colonies that
may be underground in rodent holes or above ground
in rock piles, tree cavities, etc.
Fed: None
Calif: SA3, S1S2
Low to moderate; potentially suitable habitat, food
plants present, two documented occurrences within 5
mi. (2001, 1.5 mi. WNW; 1975, exact location
unknown, mapped 3.5 mi. NW), no bee colonies
incidentally observed during surveys.
Branchinecta lynchi
Vernal pool fairy shrimp
Vernal pools or similar vernal habitats, requires cool
water pools (≤50ºF to hatch, ≤75ºF to survive);
disjunct locations in Riverside Co. and the Coast
Ranges thru Central Valley to Tehama Co., southern
Oregon, up to elevation of 1159m.
Fed: THR
Calif: SA, S3
MSHCP: AC a
Absent; no suitable habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi.
Branchinecta sandiegonensis
San Diego fairy shrimp
Vernal pool complexes; endemic to San Diego and
Orange County mesas. One occurrence in Murrieta is
a transplant to a mitigation pool outside of native
range.
Fed: END
Calif: SA, S2
Absent; no suitable habitat, one documented
occurrence within 5 mi. (2017, Clayton Ranch
Mitigation Site; transplant outside of native range).
Cincindela senilis frosti
Senile tiger beetle
Coastal salt marshes, tidal mud flats, interior alkali
mud flats. CA and northern Mexico, San Diego Co. to
Sonoma and Lake Co.
Fed: None
Calif: SA, S1
Absent; no suitable habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi.
Danaus plexippus pop. 1
Monarch butterfly California overwintering population.
Fed: CAN
State: SA, S2S3
USFS: S (Los
Padres NF)
Absent; individual butterflies may be present, but too
far inland for overwintering.
3 Crotch bumble bee was previously a candidate for state listing, but t he Sacramento Superior Court ruled that insects are not eligible for listing under the California Endangered Species Act: Almond Alliance of California v. California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Sacramento Superior Court No. 34-2019-80003216 (Nov. 13, 2020). The California Fish and Game Commission filed an intent to appeal this decision in February 2021.
The status of this species may be affected by subsequent litigation or changes to regulations.
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Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California December 2021 RLCC-03-R187.BA5.BO11.NB4.BS2.LS1.rev3 96 L&L
Species Habitat and Distribution
Conservation
Status Potential for Occurrence
Euphydryas editha quino
Quino checkerspot butterfly
Coastal scrub, open chaparral, juniper woodland,
native grassland. Western Riverside Co., southern
San Diego Co., Baja. Flight season from mid-Jan to
late May. Host plants are dwarf plantain (Plantago
erecta), purple owl’s clover (Castilleja exserta), white snapdragon (Antirrhinum coulterianum), wooly plantain
(Plantago patagonica), thread-leaved bird’s beak
(Cordylanthus rigidus). USFWS considers species
extirpated in San Bernardino Co.
Fed: END
Calif: SA, S1S2
MSHCP: AC
Low; potentially marginal habitat, one host plant
species present (Plantago erecta), 11 documented
occurrences within 5 mi. (1997-2003, closest is 2.6
mi. SE), not observed during focused surveys in 2004
and not incidentally observed during later surveys.
Linderiella occidentalis
California linderiella
Vernal pools, seasonal pools in unplowed grasslands
with old alluvial soils underlain by hardpan or in
sandstone depressions. Water in the pools has very
low alkalinity, conductivity, and total dissolved solids.
N and Central CA, Riverside (Santa Rosa Plateau)
and Ventura Cos.
Fed: None
Calif: SA, S2S3
Absent; no suitable habitat, outside known
geographic range.
Linderiella santarosae
Santa Rosa Plateau fairy shrimp
Found only in the basalt vernal pools on Santa Rosa
Plateau in Riverside County.
Fed: None
Calif: SA, S1
MSHCP: AC a
Absent; no suitable habitat, outside known
geographic range.
Neolarra alba
White cuckoo bee
Cleptoparasitic in the nests of perdita bees. Known
only from localities in Southern California. All
occurrences are historical.
Fed: None
Calif: SA, SH
Not expected; no documented occurrences within 5
mi., all occurrences are historical.
Socalchemmis icenoglei
Icenogle’s socalchemmis spider
Coastal scrub; known only from the type locality in the vicinity of Winchester, Riverside Co.
Fed: None
Calif: SA, S1
Not expected; no documented occurrences within 5
mi.
Streptocephalus woottoni
Riverside fairy shrimp
Endemic to Western Riverside, Orange, and San
Diego counties in areas of tectonic swales/earth slump
basins in grassland and coastal sage scrub. Coastal
scrub, valley & foothill grassland, vernal pool, wetland.
Inhabit seasonally astatic pools filled by winter/spring rains. Hatch in warm water later in the season.
Generally restricted to pools greater than 12 inches
deep. All known populations lie between 30 and 415
meters elevation.
Fed: END
Calif: SA, S1S2
MSHCP: AC a
Absent; no suitable habitat, 8 documented
occurrences within 5 mi. (2002-2017, closest extant
is 1.8 mi. ESE).
Fish
Gila orcuttii
Arroyo chub
Slow-moving or backwater sections of warm/ cool
streams with mud or sand substrates. LA, San
Gabriel, San Luis Rey, Santa Ana & Santa Margarita
Riv & Malibu & San Juan creeks.
Fed: None
Calif: SSC, S2
MSHCP: AC
USFS: S
Absent; no perennial aquatic habitat.
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Species Habitat and Distribution
Conservation
Status Potential for Occurrence
Amphibians
Anaxyrus californicus
Arroyo toad
Washes & intermittent streams of semi-arid regions,
sandy-banked rivers, riparian woodlands, & loose
gravel. Rivers with sandy banks, willows,
cottonwoods, and sycamores; loose, gravelly areas of
streams in drier parts of range, below 4600 ft.
Southern California to tip of Baja California. Desert
pop. along Mojave River.
Fed: END
Calif: SSC, S2S3
MSHCP: AC c
Absent; no suitable habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Rana draytonii
California red-legged frog
Lowlands and foothills in or near permanent sources
of deep water with dense, shrubby or emergent
riparian vegetation. Requires 11-20 weeks of
permanent water for larval development. Must have
access to estivation habitat.
Fed: THR
Calif: SSC, S2S3
MSHCP: AC c
Absent; no perennial aquatic habitat.
Spea hammondii
Western spadefoot toad
Cismontane woodland, coastal scrub, valley & foothill
grassland, vernal pool. Breeds in quiet streams &
vernal pools, burrows beneath sand during dry
season. W CA, Central Valley to Baja California. From
near sea level up to 4,500 ft elev.
Fed: None
Calif: SSC, S3
BLM: S
MSHCP: AC
Absent; no suitable habitat, 17 documented
occurrences within 5 mi. (1998-2019, closest is 1.1
mi. NE), not observed during surveys.
Taricha torosa
Coast Range newt
Valley-foothill hardwood and hardwood-conifer,
coastal scrub, chaparral, grassland, mixed conifer.
Coast Ranges from N San Diego Co. to central
Mendocino Co., southern Sierra Nevada foothills S of
Kaweah River. Spends most of the year in
subterranean refuges, migrates to aquatic breeding
areas in the fall and returns in the spring.
Fed: None
Calif: SSC, S4
MSHCP: AC
Absent; no suitable aquatic breeding habitat on or
adjacent to the site, no documented occurrences
within 5 mi., not observed during surveys but is
secretive.
Reptiles
Anniella stebbinsi (Anniella pulchra
pulchra)
Southern California legless lizard
Various habitats, mainly shrublands, <6500 ft. elev.
Coast Ranges from Bay area to N Baja CA, SW Sierra
Nevada, parts of the Central Valley, Transverse &
Peninsular Ranges.
Fed: None
Calif: SSC, S3
USFS: S
Low to moderate; potentially suitable habitat, one
documented occurrence within 5 mi. (2011, 3.9 mi.
SW), not observed during surveys but is secretive.
Arizona elegans occidentalis
California glossy snake
Arid scrub, rocky washes, grasslands, chaparral, often
with loose or sandy soils. Patchily distributed from the eastern portion of San Francisco Bay, southern San
Joaquin Valley, and the Coast, Transverse, and
Peninsular Ranges, south to Baja California. Sea level
to 7200’ elev. Nocturnal.
Fed: None
Calif: SSC, S2
Low; potentially marginal habitat, three documented
occurrences within 5 mi. (1977, exact location
unknown, mapped 3.4 mi. NW; 1946, exact location
unknown, mapped 4.7 mi. SW; 1946, exact location
unknown, mapped 4.2 mi. W), not observed during
surveys but is nocturnal.
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Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California December 2021 RLCC-03-R187.BA5.BO11.NB4.BS2.LS1.rev3 98 L&L
Species Habitat and Distribution
Conservation
Status Potential for Occurrence
Aspidoscelis hyperythra
Orange-throated whiptail
Low-elevation coastal scrub, chaparral, valley-foothill hardwood, sea level to 1040m. Sandy areas, patches
of rock. S CA, west of desert to tip of Baja CA.
Fed: None
Calif: WL, S2S3
USFS: S
MSHCP: AC
Occurs; observed on the site during surveys.
Aspidoscelis tigris stejnegeri
Coastal whiptail
Primarily hot, dry open areas with sparse foliage,
chaparral, woodland, riparian; coastal So CA, mostly
west of Peninsular Ranges and south of Transverse
Ranges, north into Ventura County, below ±7000’
elev. and into Baja.
Fed: None
Calif: SSC, S3
MSHCP: AC
Occurs; observed on the site during surveys.
Coleonyx variegatus abbotti
San Diego banded gecko
Rock outcrops in shrublands, to 5000’ elevation;
southwest Calif. through much of n. Baja Calif.
Fed: None
Calif: SSC, S1S2
MSHCP: AC
Low; potentially marginal habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Crotalus ruber
Red-diamond rattlesnake
Desert scrub, thorn scrub, chaparral below 4,000ft.
San Bernardino County S through most of Baja
California, Mexico.
Fed: None
Calif: SSC, S3
USFS: S
MSHCP: AC
Low; no or marginal habitat, two documented
occurrences within 5 mi. (2001, 2.5 mi. WSW; 2001,
1.5 mi. NW), not observed during surveys.
Diadophis punctatus modestus
San Bernardino ringneck snake
Open relatively rocky areas within valley-foothill
locales, mixed chaparral/annual grasslands. Prefers
moist habitats. W San Diego & Riv. Cos., SW San
Bern., Vent. & LA Cos., NW Baja CA.
Fed: None
Calif: SA, S2?
USFS: S
Low; no or marginal habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Emys marmorata
Western pond turtle
Perennial ponds, streams, marshes, irrigation ditches.
Coastal S & cent. CA, NW Baja CA, below about 4800
ft. elev. (few higher elev. pops.)
Fed: None
Calif: SSC, S3
BLM: S
USFS: S
MSHCP: AC
Absent; no perennial aquatic habitat.
Phrynosoma blainvillii
Coast horned lizard
Coastal sage scrub, low elevation chaparral, annual
grassland, riparian scrub and woodlands, desert wash,
pinyon and juniper woodland, valley and foothill
grassland, 0-2438m elevation. SW California to NW
Baja California, Mexico.
Fed: None
Calif: SSC, S3S4
BLM: S
MSHCP: AC
Occurs; observed on the site during surveys.
Salvadora hexalepis virgultea
Coast patch-nosed snake
Shrublands, washes, sandy flats, rocky areas; Santa
Barbara County through southwest Calif., to northwest
Baja Calif. Diurnal.
Fed: None
Calif: SSC, S2S3
Low; no or marginal habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Updated Biological Resources Assessment
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Species Habitat and Distribution
Conservation
Status Potential for Occurrence
Thamnophis hammondii
Two-striped gartersnake
Usually in or near perennial fresh water & adjacent
riparian habitat, pools in streams. SW CA & NW Baja
California. Usually in or near perennial fresh water &
adjacent riparian habitat, pools in streams. SW CA &
NW Baja California. Primarily aquatic. Diurnal. Also
active at night and at dusk during hot weather in some
areas. Can be active most of the year depending on
weather conditions. Has been found from January to
November.
Fed: None
Calif: SSC, S3S4
BLM: S
USFS: S
Absent; no suitable habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi., not observed during
surveys.
Birds
Accipiter cooperii
Cooper’s hawk
Cismontane woodland, riparian forest, riparian
woodland, upper montane coniferous forest. Forages
in open areas over scrublands; California, Mexico,
Central America. Nests in trees, often in dense
woods. Year-round resident in most of southern
California range. CNDDB only tracks nesting.
Fed: None
Calif: WL, S4
MSHCP: AC
Occurs (foraging), low (nesting); observed on the site
during surveys, no or marginal nesting habitat, no
documented occurrences (nesting) within 5 mi.
Aechmophorus clarkii
Clark’s grebe
Requires large, open waters for courtship, feeding,
and flocking, and extensive beds of tall, emergent
vegetation such as tules or cattails for nesting;
generally nests in colonies. Not tracked in CNDDB.
Fed: BCC
Calif: None
Absent (foraging and nesting); no suitable habitat,
may be seen in migration or moving between large
lakes in the region, not observed during surveys.
Agelaius tricolor
Tricolored blackbird
Breeds colonially in freshwater marshes, nomadic
among marshes and fields in winter; almost completely
endemic to Calif. Year-round resident in southern
California range. CNDDB only tracks nesting.
Fed: BCC
Calif: THR, SSC,
S1S2
BLM: S
MSHCP: AC
Low to moderate (foraging), absent (nesting);
potentially suitable wintering habitat, no suitable
nesting habitat, one documented occurrence
(nesting) within 5 mi. (2008, 4.9 mi. SE), several
eBird records in vicinity, not observed during surveys.
Aimophila ruficeps canescens
Southern California rufous-crowned
sparrow
Sparse, mixed chaparral, scrub, rocky, brushy slopes.
Central California to Baja California. Year-round
resident in southern California range.
Fed: None
Calif: WL, S3
MSHCP: AC
Occurs (foraging), high (nesting); observed on the
site during surveys, potentially suitable nesting
habitat.
Aquila chrysaetos
Golden eagle
Found in a variety of habitats from sea level to 11,500 feet, rugged open habitats preferred. Large platform
nests constructed on secluded cliffs, large trees, and
occasionally structures (i.e., electrical transmission
towers). CNDDB tracks nesting and wintering.
Fed: BGEPA, BCC
Calif: FP, WL, S3
BLM: S
MSHCP: AC
Not expected (foraging), absent (nesting); potentially
marginal foraging habitat, no suitable nesting habitat, one documented occurrence (nesting) within 5 mi.
(1974, 2.5 mi. N), multiple eBird records in vicinity
(may be seen soaring overhead), not observed
during surveys.
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Species Habitat and Distribution
Conservation
Status Potential for Occurrence
Ardea alba
Great egret
Brackish and freshwater marshes, estuary, riparian
forest, wetland. Colonial nester in large trees. Rookery sites located near marshes, tide-flats, irrigated
pastures, and margins of rivers and lakes. CNDDB
only tracks nesting colonies.
Fed: none
Calif: SA, S4
Occurs (foraging or fly over), absent (nesting);
observed onsite during surveys, no nesting habitat or
nesting colonies present.
Ardea herodias
Great blue heron
Brackish and freshwater marshes, estuary, riparian
forest, wetland. Colonial nester in tall trees, cliffsides, and sequestered spots on marshes. Rookery sites in
close proximity to foraging areas: marshes, lake
margins, tide-flats, rivers and streams, wet meadows.
CNDDB only tracks nesting colonies.
Fed: none
Calif: SA, S4
MSHCP: AC
Occurs (fly over), not expected (foraging), absent
(nesting); no or marginal foraging habitat, no suitable nesting habitat, no documented occurrences
(nesting) within 5 mi., multiple eBird records in
vicinity.
Artemisiospiza belli
Bell’s sage sparrow
Sage scrub and chaparral communities. Nests mainly
in shrubs, also in grass, and occasionally on ground
under shrub. Found in coastal sage scrub in south of
range. Central Washington southward to Baja
California, Mexico. Year-round resident in southern
CA.
Fed: BCC
Calif: WL, S3
MSHCP: AC
Occurs (foraging), high (nesting); observed on the
site during surveys, potentially suitable nesting
habitat.
Asio otus
Long-eared owl
Conifer, oak, riparian, pinyon-juniper, and desert
woodlands that are open or adjacent to grasslands,
meadows, or shrublands. Most of CA except Central
Valley, coastal LA and Orange Co., western Imperial
Co., and central Riverside Co. Very limited breeding
range in southern CA. CNDDB only tracks nesting.
Fed: None
Calif: SSC, S3?
Not expected (foraging and nesting); no or marginal
habitat, no documented occurrences (nesting) within
5 mi., no eBird records in vicinity, not observed
during surveys.
Athene cunicularia
Burrowing owl
Nests in rodent burrows, usually in grasslands.
Forages in open habitat; increasingly uncomm. in S
CA. Occurs through W US/Mex. Sparse in desert
scrub but common around irrigated lands. CNDDB
tracks burrow sites and some wintering sites.
Fed: BCC
Calif: SSC, S3
BLM: S
MSHCP: AC c
Occurs; observed on site during focused surveys in
2018. Not observed during focused surveys in 2019
and 2021.
Buteo regalis
Ferruginous hawk
Open grasslands, sagebrush flats, desert scrub, low
foothills and fringes of pinyon and juniper habitats.
Great Basin grassland and scrub, pinyon and juniper
woodlands, valley and foothill grassland. Eats mostly
lagomorphs, ground squirrels, and mice. Population
trends may follow lagomorph population cycles. Does
not breed in southern CA.
Fed: BCC
Calif: WL, S3S4
MSHCP: AC
Low (foraging), absent (nesting); potentially suitable
habitat foraging habitat (when fields are fallow),
outside of breeding range, three documented
occurrences within 5 mi. (2008, 4.1 mi. NE; 2007, 3.9
mi ENE; 2008, 2.4 mi. E), a few eBird records in
vicinity, not observed during surveys.
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Tract 31194, Golden Meadows (Menifee Assemblage), Menifee, California December 2021 RLCC-03-R187.BA5.BO11.NB4.BS2.LS1.rev3 101 L&L
Species Habitat and Distribution
Conservation
Status Potential for Occurrence
Buteo swainsoni
Swainson's hawk
Grassland/agricultural, large trees for nesting, desert scrub with Joshua tree & Fremont cottonwood
overstory, near streams & open fields. Breeds
overwhelmingly in Great Basin & Central Valley of
California. Seen in migration in southern California.
CNDDB only tracks nesting.
Fed: BCC
Calif: THR, S3
BLM: S
MSHCP: AC
Low (foraging), absent (nesting), may be seen in
migration; potentially marginal foraging habitat,
outside current breeding range, a few eBird records
in vicinity, not observed during surveys.
Calypte costae
Costa’s hummingbird
Desert and coastal scrub and chaparral in desert,
semi-desert and mountain foothills and seasonally in
mountains, adjacent open meadows and gardens.
Found in NV, UT, AZ, CA and Mexico. Year-round
resident in southern CA. CNDDB only tracks nesting.
Fed: BCC
Calif: SA, S4
Occurs (foraging), high (nesting); observed on the
site during surveys, potentially suitable nesting
habitat.
Campylorhynchus brunneicapillus
sandiegensis
Coastal cactus wren
Desert scrub and coastal sage scrub with cactus
patches; Southern CA and northwestern Baja. Non-
migratory. Pairs defend territories throughout the year.
Limited to San Diego and Orange Cos.
Fed: BCC
Calif: SSC, S3
USFS: S
MSHCP: AC
Absent (foraging and nesting); no suitable habitat,
outside current range, not observed during surveys.
Chamaea fasciata
Wrentit
Chaparral, oak woodland, shrublands, western CA,
northwestern Baja, western Oregon. Year-round
resident in southern CA range. CNDDB does not track
this species.
Fed: BCC
Calif: None
Occurs (foraging), high (nesting); observed on the
site during surveys, potentially suitable nesting
habitat.
Charadrius nivosus
Western snowy plover
Coastal beaches, sand spits, salt pans, river bars.
Coastal areas from Washington State south to Baja.
Federal listing applies only to the Pacific coastal
population. CNDDB only tracks nesting. Year-round
resident in southern CA range except for eastern
deserts where it is seen in migration.
Fed: THR, BCC
Calif: SSC, S2
Absent (foraging and nesting); no suitable habitat, no
documented occurrences (nesting) within 5 mi., no
eBird records in vicinity, not observed during surveys.
Circus hudsonius
(C. cyaneus)
Northern harrier
Open habitats with hunting perches, marshes,
meadows, grasslands, pastures, croplands, lake and
river edges. Nests on the ground. Breeds widely but
locally in North America, various portions of CA
including Central Valley, central and northern coast,
northeastern CA, and southern coastal CA. Does not
breed in most of southern CA range. CNDDB only
tracks nesting.
Fed: None
Calif: SSC, S3
MSHCP: AC
Occurs (foraging), low to moderate (nesting);
observed on the site during surveys, potentially
suitable nesting habitat, no documented occurrences
(nesting) within 5 mi.
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Species Habitat and Distribution
Conservation
Status Potential for Occurrence
Dryobates (Picoides) nuttallii
Nuttall’s woodpecker
Found in low elevation riparian and oak woodlands,
rarely in conifers. Central Valley, Transverse and
Peninsular Ranges, Coast Ranges north to Sonoma
Co., lower portions of the Cascade Range and Sierra
Nevada. Year-round resident throughout coastal
mountains of CA. Not tracked in CNDDB.
Fed: BCC
Calif: None
Occurs (foraging), moderate (nesting); observed on
the site during surveys, potentially marginal nesting
habitat.
Elanus leucurus
White-tailed kite
Breeds in woodlands and riparian forests, forages over
open terrain; Pacific Coast (Calif, northern Baja,
Oregon), other scattered localities. Year-round
resident in southern CA range. CNDDB only tracks
nesting.
Fed: None
Calif: FP, S3S4
BLM: S
MSHCP: AC
Occurs (foraging), low (nesting); observed on the site
during surveys, no or marginal nesting habitat, no
documented occurrences (nesting) within 5 mi., five
nests within 10 mi. of the site (see Section 3.4.1).
Empidonax traillii extimus
Southwestern willow flycatcher
Dense riparian forests, wet mountain meadow systems
with standing water for at least part of the breeding
season (May to July) & with ample numbers of willow
& other associated trees & shrubs. Rare & local in S
CA. SW US & N Baja California. CNDDB only tracks
nesting.
Fed: END
Calif: END, S1
MSHCP: AC a
Absent (foraging and nesting); no suitable habitat, no
documented occurrences within 5 mi., not observed
during surveys. Habitat assessment found no suitable
habitat on the site.
Eremophila alpestris actia
California horned lark
Variety of open habitats with low growing vegetation or bare ground, grasslands, rangelands, “bald” hills, mtn. meadows, open coastal plains, fallow fields, alkali
flats. Within coastal Sonoma Co. to San Diego Co.,
San Joaquin Valley & E to foothills.
Fed: None
Calif: WL, S4
MSHCP: AC
Occurs (foraging), high (nesting); observed on the
site during surveys, potentially suitable nesting
habitat.
Haliaeetus leucocephalus
Bald eagle
Breed in large trees, usually near major rivers or lakes.
Winters more widely. Wide but scattered distribution
in N America, esp. coastal regions. CNDDB tracks
nesting and wintering.
Fed: Delisted,
BGEPA, BCC
Calif: END, FP, S3
MSHCP: AC
BLM: S
USFS: S
Absent (foraging and nesting); no suitable habitat, not observed during surveys.
Icteria virens
Yellow-breasted chat
Summer resident, inhabits riparian thickets of willow
near watercourses, low dense riparian willow. Migrant
and summer resident in CA, northern CA, central
coast, eastern Central Valley, coastal southern CA,
Colorado River, western US, Canada, Mexico, Central
America. CNDDB only tracks nesting.
Fed: None
Calif: SSC, S3
MSHCP: AC
Not expected (foraging and nesting); no or marginal
habitat, no documented occurrences (nesting) within
5 mi., few eBird records in vicinity, not observed
during surveys.
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Species Habitat and Distribution
Conservation
Status Potential for Occurrence
Lanius ludovicianus
Loggerhead shrike
Open areas where small trees, shrubs, and fences can
provide suitable perches. Nests in small trees and
large shrubs. Throughout much of North America.
CNDDB only tracks nesting.
Fed: BCC
Calif: SSC, S4
MSHCP: AC
Occurs (foraging), moderate (nesting); observed on
the site during surveys, potentially suitable nesting
habitat, one documented occurrence (nesting) within
5 mi. (2007, 4.5 mi. NE).
Plegadis chihi
White-faced ibis
Freshwater wetlands, shallow lakes, wet meadows,
flooded pastures and croplands. Nests in dense, fresh
emergent wetland. Salton Sea, local winter visitor
along coast, uncommon elsewhere in southern CA
and Central Valley. CNDDB only tracks nesting
colonies.
Fed: None
Calif: WL, S3S4
MSHCP: AC
Not expected (foraging), absent (nesting); no suitable
habitat, no documented occurrences (nesting) within
5 mi., few eBird records in vicinity, not observed
during surveys.
Polioptila californica
Coastal California gnatcatcher
Sage scrub, also chaparral, grasslands, riparian
adjacent to or mixed with sage scrub below 2,500 ft
elevation. S Ventura Co. to LA, Orange, Riv., San
Bern., San D. Cos into Baja CA, Mexico.
Fed: THR
Calif: SSC, S2
MSHCP: AC
Occurs (foraging and nesting); observed on the site
during surveys including nest sites and breeding
pairs.
Selasphorus rufus
Rufous hummingbird
Breeds in open or shrubby areas, forest openings,
yards and parks. Sometimes forests, thickets,
swamps, meadows. Elev. range 0-6000 ft. Migrating
birds can be up to 12,600 ft. Wintering birds in oak,
pine, and juniper woodlands. Found in Western US
and Canada. Generally migrates through southern CA
during pre-breeding migratory season (mid-Feb to mid-
May). CNDDB only tracks nesting.
Fed: BCC
Calif: SA, S1S2
Occurs (foraging), not expected (nesting); observed
onsite during surveys, outside breeding range, no
documented occurrences (nesting) within 5 mi.
Setophaga petechia
Yellow warbler
Migrant and summer resident in southern CA.
Riparian, including willow, cottonwood, sycamore,
alder, aspen for nesting & foraging, also conifer forest.
CNDDB only tracks nesting.
Fed: BCC
Calif: SSC, S3S4
Low (foraging and nesting); potentially marginal
habitat, no documented occurrences (nesting) within
5 mi., few eBird records in vicinity, not observed
during surveys.
Spinus lawrencei
Lawrence’s goldfinch
Summer breeder, may overwinter. Coastal side of
southern and central CA, western edge of southern
deserts, east side of Central Valley into northern CA,
Colorado River, SW US and northern Mex. Valley
foothill hardwood and hardwood-conifer, desert
riparian, pinyon juniper, palm oasis, lower montane.
Nests in oaks, conifers. CNDDB only tracks nesting.
Fed: BCC
Calif: SA, S4
Occurs (foraging), low (nesting); observed on the site
during surveys, potentially suitable or marginal
nesting habitat, no documented occurrences
(nesting) within 5 mi.
Toxostoma redivivum
California thrasher
Chaparral. Coastal and foothill areas of California and NW Baja California, Mexico. Resident throughout its
range. Not tracked in CNDDB.
Fed: BCC
Calif: none
Occurs (foraging), moderate (nesting); potentially
suitable or marginal nesting habitat.
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Species Habitat and Distribution
Conservation
Status Potential for Occurrence
Vireo bellii pusillus
Least Bell’s vireo
Riparian woodlands, bottomlands. N Mex. & Baja CA
into S CA & the S mid-western US. CNDDB only
tracks nesting.
Fed: END
Calif: END, S2
MSHCP: AC a
Absent (foraging and nesting); no suitable habitat,
two documented occurrences within 5 mi. (both along
San Jacinto River - 2010, 4.6 mi. ENE; 2002, 4.2 mi.
ENE), not observed during surveys. Habitat
assessment found no suitable habitat on the site.
Xanthocephalus xanthocephalus
Yellow-headed blackbird
Marsh, swamp, wetland. Nests in freshwater emergent
wetlands with dense vegetation and deep water. Often
along borders of lakes or ponds. Nests only where
large insects are abundant. CNDDB only tracks
nesting.
Fed: None
Calif: SSC, S3
Absent (foraging and nesting); no suitable habitat,
few eBird records in vicinity, not observed during
surveys.
Mammals
Chaetodipus californicus femoralis
Dulzura pocket mouse
Variety of habitats including coastal scrub, chaparral & grassland. Attracted to grass-chaparral edges.
Chaparral, coastal scrub, valley and foothill grassland.
Fed: None
Calif: SSC, S3
Low to moderate; potentially suitable or marginal
habitat, no documented occurrences within 5 mi.
Chaetodipus (Perognathus) fallax
Northwestern San Diego pocket
mouse
Sandy herbaceous areas, usually in association with
rocks or coarse gravel, chaparral, coastal scrub,
grasslands. SW CA & NW Baja California (inland to
San Bernardino Valley).
Fed: None
Calif: SSC, S3S4
MSHCP: AC
Low to moderate; potentially marginal habitat, two
documented occurrences within 5 mi. (1992, 3.4 mi.
NE; 2009, 3.8 mi. S).
Dipodomys merriami parvus
San Bernardino kangaroo rat
Alluvial floodplains and adjacent upland habitats within the San Bernardino, Menifee, and San Jacinto valleys,
Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub.
Fed: END
Calif: CanE, SSC,
S1
MSHCP: AC c
Absent; no suitable habitat, one documented
occurrence within 5 mi. (1938, exact location
unknown, mapped 4.4 mi. NNE).
Dipodomys stephensi
Stephens' kangaroo rat
Sparse, gently sloping grassland, sometimes at
margins of cultivated or disturbed lands; prefers
grassland dominated by forbs rather than annual
grasses, prefers sparse perennial vegetation; firm soil for burrowing (not too hard or too sandy); may use
abandoned gopher burrows; W Riverside Co. and
adjacent San Diego Co. San Bernardino County
occurrences extirpated. No critical habitat has been
designated.
Fed: END
Calif: THR, S2
MSHCP: AC
High; potentially suitable habitat, 22 documented
occurrences within 5 mi. (1938-2005, closest is 1.2
mi. N).
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Species Habitat and Distribution
Conservation
Status Potential for Occurrence
Eumops perotis californicus
Western mastiff bat
Lowlands (with rare exceptions), many open, semi-arid
to arid habitats, conifer and deciduous woodlands,
coastal scrub, grasslands, chaparral. Central & S CA,
S AZ, NM, SW TX. Roosts in deep rock crevices, high
buildings, trees, and tunnels; forages over wide area.
Fed: None
Calif: SSC, S3S4
BLM: S
Low to moderate (foraging), low (roosting); potentially suitable foraging habitat, no or marginal roosting
habitat, two documented occurrences within 5 mi.
(1990, exact location unknown, mapped 2.6 mi. N;
2001, 1.5 mi. NW).
Lasiurus xanthinus
Western yellow bat
Valley foothill riparian, desert riparian, desert wash, palm oasis. Roosts in trees, particularly palms.
Forages over water and among trees. Desert regions
of the SW US. Distributed in S CA, AZ, NM, & TX, into
Mexico.
Fed: None
Calif: SSC, S3
Not expected (foraging and roosting); no or marginal
habitat, one documented occurrence within 5 mi.
(1982, exact location unknown, mapped 2.7 mi. N).
Lepus californicus bennettii
San Diego black-tailed jackrabbit
Chaparral, coastal, or Riversidean sage scrub with
adjacent open grassland. Los Angeles Co. S to San
Quintin, Baja California, Mexico.
Fed: None
Calif: SSC, S3S4
MSHCP: AC
Occurs; observed on the site during surveys.
Neotoma lepida intermedia
San Diego desert woodrat
Arid shrublands, rocky outcrops, & crevices.
Cismontane CA., San Luis Obispo to San Diego Co. &
NW Baja California. 0-7000 ft. elev. Variety of shrub
and desert habitats, primarily associated with rock
outcroppings, boulders, cacti, or areas of dense
undergrowth. Constructs elaborate middens of sticks
and other materials.
Fed: None
Calif: SSC, S3S4
MSHCP: AC
Not expected; potentially marginal habitat, no
documented occurrences within 5 mi., no middens
observed during surveys.
Nyctinomops femorosaccus
Pocketed free-tailed bat
Deserts & arid lowlands, pinyon juniper woodlands,
desert scrub, riparian scrub, Joshua tree woodland,
rocky areas with high cliffs. E Riverside & San Diego
Cos. and Imperial Co., through SW US, Baja
California, mainland Mexico. Roost mainly in crevices
of high cliffs. Few records in So CA. Prefers rocky
desert areas with high cliffs or rock outcrops. Feeds
over ponds, streams, and arid desert.
Fed: None
Calif: SSC, S3
Not expected (foraging and roosting); no suitable
habitat, no documented occurrences within 5 mi.
Onychomys torridus ramona
Southern grasshopper mouse
Nocturnal, active year-round. Desert scrub, coastal
scrub, mixed chaparral, sagebrush, especially scrub
habitats with friable soil, prefers low to moderate shrub cover. LA through San Diego counties and northwest
Baja.
Fed: None
Calif: SSC, S3
Low; potentially marginal habitat, one documented
occurrence within 5 mi. (1932, exact location
unknown, mapped 4.4 mi. NE).
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Species Habitat and Distribution
Conservation
Status Potential for Occurrence
Perognathus longimembris
brevinasus
Los Angeles pocket mouse
Nocturnal, active Apr-Aug. Annual grassland, sage
scrub, alluvial sage scrub. S California from Rancho
Cucamonga (W boundary), San Gorgonio (E),
Aguanga & Oak Grove, San Diego (S). Open ground
with fine, sandy soils.
Fed: None
Calif: SSC, S1S2
MSHCP: AC c
Low; potentially marginal habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi.
Perognathus longimembris
internationalis
Jacumba pocket mouse
Desert riparian, desert scrub, desert wash, coastal
scrub and sagebrush. Rarely found on rocky sites.
Fed: None
Calif: SSC, S2
Low; potentially marginal habitat, no documented
occurrences within 5 mi.
Taxidea taxus
American badger
Mountains, deserts, interior valleys where burrowing
animals are available as prey & soil permits digging.
Throughout Central & W North America.
Fed: None
Calif: SSC, S3
Low; potentially suitable habitat, no badger burrows
or diggings observed during surveys.
References: CDFW (2021b, 2021c), USFWS (2021), Dudek (2003), RCA (2020); Cornell (2021); eBird (2021); USFS (2013).
“Documented occurrences” refers to species occurrences in the California Nat ural Diversity Database (CNDDB) unl ess otherwise noted. For plant species that are not tracked in the CNDDB, records from the Consortium of California Herbaria (CCH) may be used (only CCH records that include map coordinates are utilized). EBird (eBird.org) is an online database of bird distribution and abundance sponsored by the Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology and compile d from observations submitted by citi zen scientists. eBird records of bird observations are noted but should be interpreted with caution. eBird records “in vicinity” means records within about a 5-mile radius of the site.
Federal designations: (Federal Endangered Species Act, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service):
END: Federally listed, endangered; an animal or plant in danger of extinction within the foreseeable future throughout all or a significant portion of its range.
THR: Federally listed, threatened; a n animal or plant which is likely to become an Endangered s pecies within the foreseeable future throu ghout all or a significant portion of its range.
Cand Candidate for federal l isting as threatened or endangered; species that has been studied by the U .S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the Se rvice has concluded that it should be proposed for addition to the Federal Endangered and Threatened species list.
Prop Proposed for federal listing as Endangered or Threatened under Section 4 of the Endangered Species Act.
Delisted: Previously federally listed as endangered or threatened, but is no longer listed (e.g., due to recovery).
None: The species has no federal conservation status.
BGEPA: Federal Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act; protects bald and golden eagles.
BCC: USFWS Bird of Conservation Concern; migratory a nd non-migratory bird species (beyond thos e already designated as Federall y threatened or endangered) that represent USFWS highest conservation priorities.
State designations: (California Endangered Species Act, California Dept. of Fish and Wildlife) END: State listed, endangered; a native specie s or subspecies of a bird, mamma l, fish, amphibian, reptile, or pla nt which is in serious danger of becoming extinct throughout all, or a significant port ion, of its range due to one or more c auses, including loss of habit at, change in habitat, overexploit ation, predation, competition, or disease.
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CanE: Candidate Endangered; a native species or subspecies of a bird, mammal, fish, amphibian, reptile, or plan t that the Fish and Game Commission has formally noticed as being under review by the Department of Fi sh and Wildlife for addition to the list of endangered species, or a species for which the commission has published a notice of proposed regulation to add the species to the list of endangered species.
CanT: Candidate Threatened; a native species or subspe cies of a bird, mammal, fish, am phibian, reptile, or plant that the Fish and Game Commission has formally noticed as being under review by the Department of Fish and Wildlife for addition to the list of threatened species, or a species for which the commis sion has published a notice of proposed regulation to add the species to the list of threatened species.
THR: State listed, threatened; a native species o r subspecies of a bird, mammal, fish, amphibian, reptile, or plant t hat, although not presently threat ened with extinction, is likely to become an endangered species in the foreseeable future in the absence of special protection and management efforts.
RARE: State listed as rare: a native plan t species, subspecies, or vari ety when, although not presently t hreatened with extinction, it is in such small numbers throughout its range that it may become endangered if its present environment worsens (Native Plant Protection Act of 1977).
SSC: CDFW Sp ecies of Special Conce rn; vert ebrate species of concern due to d eclining population levels, limi ted ranges, and/or continuing threa ts that ha ve made them vulnerable to extinction.
FP: Fully Protected; California Fish a nd Game Code state s that Fully Protect ed species "...may not be taken or possessed at any time and no provision of this code or any ot her law shall be construed to autho rize the i ssuance of permits or licenses to take any fully protected" species, although take may be authorized for necessary scientific research.
Delisted: Previously state listed as threatened or endangered, but no longer listed (e.g., due to recovery).
SA: CDFW Special Animal; wildlife of state conservation concern.
SH: All California sites are historical, still some hope of rediscovery.
SX: All California sites are historical, presumed extirpated.
PFB: Protected Fur-bearing Mammal under Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations.
None: The species has no state conservation status.
State Rank (S Rank): A reflection of the condition and imperil ment of an element (plant, animal, vegetat ion community) throughout its ra nge within the state. The S ranks a re determined through a combination of rarity, threat, and trend factors, weighted more heavily on the ra rity factors. Where correct category is un certain, the S rank includes two categories or a question mark. Older rank s, which need to be updated, may st ill contain a decimal "threat" rank of .1, .2, or .3, where .1 indicates very threatened status, .2 indicates moderate threat, and .3 indicates few or no current known threats.
S1: Critically imperiled; imperiled in the state because of extreme rarity or some factor(s) making it especially vulnerable to extirpation from the state.
S2: Imperiled; imperiled in the state because of rarity due to very restricted range, very few populations, steep declines, or other factors making it very vulnerable to extirpation from the state or nation.
S3: Vulnerable; vulnerable in the state due to a restricted range, relatively few populations, recent and widespread declines, or other factors making it vulnerable to extirpation. S4: Apparently secure; uncommon but not rare, some cause for long-term concern due to declines or other factors.
S5: Secure; common, widespread, and abundant in the state.
SH: Possibly extirpated; species or community occurred historically in the state, and there is some possibility that it may be rediscovered. The element has not been seen for at least 20 years, but suitable habitat still exists.
SX: Presumed extirpated; species or community is believed to be extirpated from the state.
California Rare Plant Rank (CRPR): The California Rare Plant Ranks are a ranking system originally developed by the California Native Plant Society (CNPS) to better define and categorize rarity in California's plants. These ranks were previously known as the CNPS lists but were renamed to the California Rare Plant Ranks to better reflect the joint effort among the CNPS, the CDFW, and a wide range of botanical experts, who work together to assign a rarity ranking.
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1A: Plants presumed extinct in California and rare/extinct elsewhere. 1B: Plants rare, threatened, or endangered in California and elsewhere. 2A: Plants presumed extirpated in California, but more common elsewhere. 2B: Plants rare, threatened, or endangered in California but more common elsewhere. 3: Plants about which we need more information.
4: Plants of limited distribution.
X.1: Extension to CRPR (e.g., 1B.1); seriously threatened in California.
X.2: Extension to CRPR (e.g., 1B.2); fairly threatened in California.
X.3: Extension to CRPR (e.g., 1B.3); not very threatened in California.
CBR: Considered but rejected.
U.S. Forest Service (USFS) designation:
S: Sensitive; plant and animal species identified by a regional forester that are not listed or proposed for listing under the Federal Endangered Species Act for which population viability is a concern, as evidenced by significant current or predicted downward trends in population numbers or density, or significant current or predicted downward trends in habitat capability that would reduce a species’ existing distribution.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM designation:
S: Sensitive; plant and animal species requiring special management consideration to promote their conservation and reduce the likelihood for future listing under the Federal Endangered Species Act. Includes species designated as sensitive by the BLM State Director and all Federal Candidate species and Federal delisted species in the 5 years following delisting. Sensitive species are managed as special status species.
Western Riverside County Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan: Applied to species that are covered under state and federal permits for the MSHCP.
NAC: Species Not Adequately Conserved
AC: Species Adequately Conserved
(a): Surveys may be required for these species as part of wetlands mapping as described in Section 6.1.2 of the MSHCP. (b): Surveys may be required for these species within Narrow Endemic Plant Species survey area as described in Section 6.1.3 of the MSHCP. (c): Surveys may be required for these species within locations shown on survey maps as described in Section 6.3.2 of the MSHCP. (d): Surveys may be required for these species within Criteria Area as described in Section 6.3.2 of the MSHCP. (e): These Covered Species will be considered Adequately Conserved when conservation requirements identified in species-specific conservation objectives have been met. Species-specific conservation objectives for these species are presented in Section 9.0 of the MSHCP. Please refer to Table 9 -3 of the MSHCP for specific conservation objectives that must be met for these species prior to including them on the list of Covered Species Adequately Conserved. (f): These Covered Species will be considered Adequately Conserved when a Memorandum of Un derstanding is executed with the U.S. Forest Service that addresses management for these species on Forest Service Land. Refer to Table 9-3 of the MSHCP.
No entry: Not a Covered Species
Definitions of occurrence probability:
These definitions provide general guidance. Classifications for individual species may be modified based on biologists’ experience and expert opinion.
Occurs: Species was detected during surveys or previously documented on the Project site or adjacent areas.
High: Species documented in the vicinity (i.e., within 5 miles) of the Project site and suitable habitat is present, but species not detected during surveys.
Moderate: Species documented in the vicinity of the Project site or suitable habitat present and site is within geographic and elevational range of the species.
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Low: Species not documented in the vicinity of the Project site or suitable habitat is marginal.
Not Expected: Species not documented in the vic inity of the Project s ite and suitable habitat marginal or absen t, or site is not within geograp hic and elevational range of the species.
Absent: No potential for the species to occur due to lack of habitat, geographic or elevation range, species life history, survey results, etc.
Unknown: No focused surveys have been performed in the region, and the species' distribution and habitat are poorly known.
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APPENDIX C: PRECIPITATION DATA
Precipitation data from t he Clark Remot e Automatic Weather Station for October 2002 through September 2021, by water year (October 1 through September 30) (WRCC 2021).
Water Year Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Total 2003 0.07 0.79 1.83 0.02 5.08 2.99 1.70 0.33 0.06 0.06 0.04 0 12.97 2004 0 0.92 0.62 0.29 3.22 0.92 0.39* * * * 0.60* 0* 6.96* 2005 4.96 0.64 2.41 5.39 6.45 1.10 0.57 0.29 0.04 * 0.01* 0.37* 22.23* 2006 1.12 1.12* 0.35 0.62 1.59 1.55 1.32 0.28 0 0.25 0 0 8.20* 2007 0.03 0.05 0.70 0.16 0.42 0.38 0.49 0.03 0 0 0 0.03 2.29 2008 0.20 1.82 0.70 2.61 0.79 0.59 0.03 0.49 0.01 0 0 0 7.24 2009 0 1.18 2.83 0.05 0.95 0.03 0 0 0 0 0 0.01 5.05
2010 0 0.10 1.68 6.01 1.83 0.21 0.87 0.01 0 0 0 0.11 10.82 2011 0.48 0.55 8.23 0.38 2.37 1.44 0.19 0.22 0 0.29 0 0 14.15 2012 0.22 1.34 0.33 0.45 0.56 1.09* 1.17 0.02 0 0.15 0.46 0.04 5.83* 2013 0.16 0.40 2.02 0.58 0.93 0.59 0 0.29 0 0.04 0.12 0 5.13 2014 0.66 0.94 0.34 0 1.25 0.59 0.58 0 0 0 0.20 0 4.56
2015 0.20 0.23 3.18 0.68 0.47 0.73 0.17 0.97 0 0.99 0 0.75 8.37 2016 0.42 0.29 0.35 2.35 0.14 0.72 1.20 0.27 0 0 0 0.03 5.77 2017 0.64 1.10* 3.44 4.44 2.36 0.07 0 0.07 0 0.03 0.24 0 12.39* 2018 0 0.09 0 1.85 0.27 1.13 0.01 0.20 0 0 0 0 3.55
2019 1.02 1.08 1.33 2.27 4.37 1.96 0.02 0.87 0 0 0 0 12.92 2020 0 2.19 2.69 0.04 0.32 3.65 3.73 0 0.04 0 0 0 12.66 2021 0 0.14 1.18 2.00 0.01 1.30 0 0* 0.07* 0.10 0 0.16 4.96* *missing or suspect data.
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Precipitation data from the Sage Remot e Automatic Weather Station for October 2010 through September 20214, by water year (October 1 through September 30) (WRCC 2021).
Water Year Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Total 2011 1.13 0.96 7.73 0.52 4.12 1.65 0.32 0.48 0.04 0.52 0 0.02 17.49 2012 0.89 2.02 0.95 0.55 1.88 1.65 1.68 0.04 0 0.22 2.06 0.15 12.09 2013 0.16 0.39 1.74 0.83 1.27 1.04 0.06 0.51 0 0.01 0.20 0.13 6.34 2014 0.90 0.62 0.45 0.04 1.69 0.69 0.32 0 0 0 1.22 0.56 6.49 2015 0.10 0.77 4.22 0.68 0.87 0.70 0.18 1.99 0 1.36 0 0.85 11.72 2016 0.57 0.59 1.23 3.10 0.11* 0.93 0.40 0.11 0 0 0 0.75 7.79* 2017 0.19 1.20 4.18 4.97 4.05 0.13 0 0.42 0 0.01 0.18 0.06 15.39 2018 0.02 0.09 0 2.63 0.46 2.35 0 0.12 0.01 0.04 0 0 5.72 2019 0.92 1.18 1.61 2.54 7.34 1.84 0.20 1.41 0.02 0 0 0.10 17.16 2020 0 3.01 2.39 0.53 0.40 4.78 4.44 * 0.04 0.01 0 0 15.60* 2021 0.09 0.62 1.43 1.62 0.20 1.54 0.31 0 0 0.31 0 0.07 6.19 *missing or suspect data.
4 The record for the Sage Weather Station begins in 2010.
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Precipitation data from the Cranston Remote Automatic Weather Station for October 2002 through September 2021, by water year (October 1 through September 30) (WRCC 2021).
Water Year Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Total 2003 0.01 1.41 2.62 0.08 4.18 3.26* 1.71 0.12 0.08 0.37 0.10 0.08 14.02* 2004 0 2.18 0.83 0.33 3.72 2.86 0.97 0.02 0 0* 0.02 0 10.93* 2005 6.34 1.85 3.83 8.17 5.38 1.20 1.58 0.85 0 1.38 1.42 0.17 32.17 2006 1.46 0 0.22 0.92 2.06 3.15 2.29 0.32 0 0.33 0 1.02 11.77 2007 0.21 0.07 0.45 0.24 1.95 0.25 0.69 0.03 0 0.01 0.04 0.20 4.14 2008 0 2.31 1.36 4.77 1.92 0.47 0 1.21* 0* 0.15* 0* 0* 12.19* 2009 0* 0.39* 0.26* 0.34* 1.56* 0.03* 0.62* 0.08* 0.03* 0* 0* 0.02* 3.33* 2010 0.04* 0.26* 0.57* 2.80* 2.42* 0.80* 0.76* 0* 0* 0.10* 0.39 0.04 8.18* 2011 2.09 1.14 8.98 0.74 3.83 1.69 0.19 0.23 0.03 0.48 0 0.03 19.43 2012 0.33 2.33 0.53 0.38 1.77 1.71 1.45 0.03 0 0.03 2.30 0.89 11.75 2013 0.26 0.16 1.39 1.15 0.98 1.29 0.08 0.22 0 0 0.57 0.21 6.31 2014 0.74 0.58 0.31 0.01 2.23 1.35 0.60 0.01 0 0.32 1.35 2.09 9.59 2015 0.06 0.55 4.53 0.25 0.81 0.84 0.35 1.94 0.31 3.54 0 0.82 14.00 2016 0.85 0.47 1.66 3.41 0.12* 0.80 0.39 0.84 0 0 0.03 0.68 9.25* 2017 0.55* 1.26 4.21 5.56 3.93 0.21 0 0.41 0.01 0 0.21 0 16.35* 2018 0.01 0.06 0 2.15 0.62 2.79 0.01 0.28 0 0.28 0 0 6.2 2019 0.87 0.80 1.74 3.05 9.02 2.07 0.32* 1.87 0.01 0 0 0.08 19.83* 2020 0 3.38 2.44 0.34 0.54 5.04 3.85 0.06 0.03 0 0.21 0 15.89 2021 0 0.52 1.39 2.39 0.28 1.33 0.36 0.05 0.03 0.37 0 0.03 6.75 *missing or suspect data.
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From WRCC (2018)
Project location
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APPENDIX D: SITE PHOTOGRAPHS
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Agricultural fields, south-central area of site facing
northwest (05.25.2021).
Agricultural fields, central area of site facing north; slopes with coastal scrub visible in background
(05.25.2021).
Agricultural fields after mowing, south-central area of site facing east (11.08.2021).
Overview of site after agricultural fields mowed, from
slope at north-central edge of site facing south; coastal scrub in foreground (11.08.2021).
California buckwheat scrub, northeastern area of site
facing south (05.21.2021).
California buckwheat scrub, northeastern corner of site facing southwest (05.21.2021).
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California buckwheat scrub/ruderal, east-central area of site facing southeast (05.21.2021).
California buckwheat scrub/ruderal, northwest area of
site facing south (05.25.2021).
Chamise chaparral, south-central edge of site facing
northwest (05.25.2021).
Area of chamise chaparral after it was mowed, south-
central edge of site facing west (11.08.2021).
Scattered riparian vegetation along blue-line stream,
northwest area of site facing southeast (11.08.2021).
Scattered riparian vegetation along blue-line stream,
northwest-central area of site facing north (11.08.2021).
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Offsite area along Wickerd Road, facing west
(05.21.2021).
Offsite area along Wickerd Road, facing west
(05.21.2021).
Areas of long-spined spineflower observation in 2017, facing east (11.08.2021). This area has been impacted by OHV use and the species was not observed during surveys in 2018, 2019, and 2021.
Southern California black walnut tree in riparian area, facing north (11.08.2021).
Southern California black walnut tree in riparian area, facing northwest, eucalyptus tree at right (11.08.2021).
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