January 2025
DRAFT WESTERN RIVERSIDE COUNTY
MULTIPLE SPECIES HABITAT CONSERVATION
PLAN CONSISTENCY ANALYSIS AND BIOLOGY
REPORT
MORENO VALLEY PUBLIC STORAGE PROJECT
MSHCP PERMITTEE:
CITY OF MORENO VALLEY
Prepared for:
Cherry Miao
Public Storage
701 Western Avenue
Glendale, California 91201
Prepared by:
LSA Associates, Inc.
1500 Iowa Avenue, Suite 200
Riverside, California 92507
(951) 781-9310
LSA Project No. 20241908
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
LSA was retained by Cherry Miao to conduct a Western Riverside County Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (MSHCP) consistency analysis and general biological study of the approximately 3-acre Moreno Valley Storage Project ( project) site located along Indian Street, north of Alessandro Boulevard, in Moreno Valley, Riverside County, California. The study was conducted to address compliance with the MSHCP and the California Environmental Quality Act. Results of the MSHCP consistency analysis and general biological study are summarized below.
The project site is not within the MSHCP Criteria Area.
The site does not contain riverine/riparian areas or vernal pools as defined in the MSHCP and does not contain any fairy shrimp habitat. Therefore, focused surveys will not be required for sensitive riparian bird or fairy shrimp species.
The project site is not within the MSHCP survey area for burrowing owl (BUOW; Athene cunicularia hypugaea) a nd a BUOW burrow search found no suitable burrows for BUOW. T herefore, a preconstruction survey will not be required.
The project site is not located within an MSHCP designated survey area for any other species and does not contain Delhi series soils suitable for the Delhi sands flower -loving fly (Rhaphiomidas terminatus abdominalis) or habitat for the California gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica californica). Therefore, no surveys for other species will be required.
The project will not be subject to MSHCP Urban/Wildlands interface requirements because the site is not within or adjacent to an identified Conservation Area.
The project site does not contain habitat for any threatened or endangered species. No substantial project impacts to other special-interest species are expected.
The project site provides habitat for nesting birds. A preconstruction nesting bird survey will be required prior to construction during the active nesting bird season ( January 1 through August 31) and is not required outside of those dates.
No drainage features, ponded areas, or riparian habitat potentially subject to jurisdiction by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, United States Army Corps of Engineers, or Regional Water Quality Control Board were found within the project site.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ............................................................................................................................. i TABLE OF CONTENTS .............................................................................................................................. ii LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS ............................................................................................ iv
1.0 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................... 1
1.1 Project Description and Area ............................................................................................... 1
1.2 General Setting ..................................................................................................................... 1
2.0 RESERVE ASSEMBLY ANALYSIS ............................................................................. 2
2.1 Cell and Criteria Analysis ...................................................................................................... 2
2.2 Public/Quasi-Public Lands Analysis ...................................................................................... 2
3.0 VEGETATION AND SPECIES COMPENDIA .............................................................. 3
4.0 PROTECTION OF SPECIES ASSOCIATED WITH RIPARIAN/RIVERINE AREAS AND VERNAL POOLS (MSHCP SECTION 6.1.2) ....................................................... 4
4.1 Riparian/Riverine ................................................................................................................. 4
4.1.1 Methods ................................................................................................................................ 4
4.1.2 Existing Conditions and Results ............................................................................................. 5
4.2 Vernal Pools ......................................................................................................................... 5
4.2.1 Methods ................................................................................................................................ 5
4.2.2 Existing Conditions and Results ............................................................................................. 5
4.3 Fairy Shrimp ......................................................................................................................... 5
4.3.1 Methods ................................................................................................................................ 5
4.3.2 Existing Conditions and Results ............................................................................................. 5
4.4 Riparian Birds ....................................................................................................................... 6
4.4.1 Methods ................................................................................................................................ 6
4.4.2 Existing Conditions and Results ............................................................................................. 6
4.5 Other MSHCP Section 6.1.2 Species ..................................................................................... 6
5.0 PROTECTION OF NARROW ENDEMIC PLANT SPECIES (MSHCP SECTION 6.1.3) ........................................................................................................................... 7
6.0 ADDITIONAL SURVEY NEEDS AND PROCEDURES (MSHCP SECTION 6.3.2) ............. 8
6.1 Criteria Area Plant Species ................................................................................................... 8
6.2 Amphibians .......................................................................................................................... 8
6.3 Burrowing Owl ..................................................................................................................... 8
6.3.1 Methods ................................................................................................................................ 8
6.3.2 Existing Conditions and Results ............................................................................................. 8
6.3.3 Impacts and Mitigation .......................................................................................................... 8
6.4 Mammals .............................................................................................................................. 8
7.0 INFORMATION ON OTHER SPECIES ...................................................................... 9
7.1 Delhi Sands Flower-Loving Fly .............................................................................................. 9
7.2 Coastal California Gnatcatcher ............................................................................................. 9
7.3 Species Not Adequately Conserved ..................................................................................... 9
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7.3.1 Methods ................................................................................................................................ 9
7.3.2 Existing Results ...................................................................................................................... 9
8.0 GUIDELINES PERTAINING TO THE URBAN/WILDLANDS INTERFACE (MSHCP SECTION 6.1.4) .................................................................................................. 10
9.0 POTENTIAL JURISDICTIONAL WATERS AND STREAMBEDS .................................. 11
10.0 NESTING BIRDS ................................................................................................. 12
11.0 CEQA COMPLIANCE ........................................................................................... 13
11.1 Adopted Habitat Conservation Plans ................................................................................. 13
11.2 Threatened and Endangered Species ................................................................................. 13
11.3 Other Special-Status Species .............................................................................................. 13
11.4 Wildlife Movement, Corridors, and Nursery Sites ............................................................. 19
11.5 Natural Communities of Interest ....................................................................................... 19
11.6 Wetlands ............................................................................................................................ 20
11.7 Local Policies and Ordinances Protecting Biological Resources ......................................... 20
11.8 Indirect Effects ................................................................................................................... 20
11.9 Cumulative Effects ............................................................................................................. 20
12.0 REFERENCES ...................................................................................................... 21
13.0 CERTIFICATION STATEMENT .............................................................................. 22
TABLE
Table A: Special-Status Species Potentially Occurring in the Project Vicinity That Are Not Adequately Covered by the MSHCP ............................................................................................ 14
APPENDICES
A: FIGURES
B: PLANT AND ANIMAL SPECIES OBSERVED
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LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS
APN Assessor’s Parcel Number
BUOW burrowing owl
CDFW California Department of Fish and Wildlife
CEQA California Environmental Quality Act
HCP Habitat Conservation Plan
LBVI least Bell’s vireo
MSHCP Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan
NEPSSA Narrow Endemic Plant Species Survey Area
NRCS National Resources Conservation Service
PQP Public/Quasi-Public
Project Moreno Valley Storage Project
RV recreational vehicle
sf square foot/feet
SKR Stephens’ Kangaroo Rat
SKR HCP Stephens’ Kangaroo Rat Habitat Conservation Plan SWFL southwestern willow flycatcher
USFWS United States Fish and Wildlife Service
YBCU yellow-billed cuckoo
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1.0 INTRODUCTION
LSA was retained by Cherry Maio to conduct a Western Riverside County Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan ( MSHCP) consistency analysis and general biological study of the approximately 3-acre Moreno Valley Storage Project ( project) site (Assessor’s Parcel Number [APN] 482-190-022), located near the corner of Indian Street and Alessandro Boulevard in Moreno Valley, Riverside County, California (see Appendix A, Figure 1; all figures are provided in Appendix A). The study was conducted to address the project’s consistency with the goals and objectives of the MSHCP and compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).
The study included a site visit on October 30, 2024, by LSA biologist Chrissy Kent.
1.1 PROJECT DESCRIPTION AND AREA
The proposed project would develop a three -story, 132,00 3-square-foot (sf) self- storage building and 52 recreational vehicle (RV) storage spaces. Vehicular access to the proposed project will be provided along Indian Street via an existing driveway that is shared with the commercial uses south of the site (see Appendix A, Figure 2).
1.2 GENERAL SETTING
The approximately 3-acre project site (APN 482-190-022) is currently undeveloped. The site is bounded by commercial self -storage uses to the north, commercial uses (gas station and auto parts store) to the south, residential uses to the east, and Indian Street and commercial uses to the west.
The site is relatively flat at an elevation of approxima tely 1,583 feet above mean sea level. The mapped soils on the site are Handford coarse sandy loam, 0 to 2 percent slopes and Greenfield sandy loam, 0 to 2 percent slopes (NRCS n.d.) (see Appendix A, Figure 3). Undeveloped soils observed on the project site appear to be consistent with these designations.
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2.0 RESERVE ASSEMBLY ANALYSIS
2.1 CELL AND CRITERIA ANALYSIS
The MSHCP provides for the assembly of a Conservation Area consisting of Core Areas and Linkages for the conservation of covered species. The Conservation Area is to be assembled from portions of the MSHCP Criteria Area, which consist of quarter-section (i.e., approximately 160-acre) Criteria Cells, each with specific criteria for the species conservation within that cell.
The project site is not within an MSHCP Conservation Area; therefore, no reserve assembly analysis is required.
2.2 PUBLIC/QUASI-PUBLIC LANDS ANALYSIS
The MSHCP provides for the assembly of a Conservation Area consisting of existing lands known to be in public/private ownership (also known as Public/Quasi -Public, or PQP, lands) and expected to be managed for open space value and/or in a manner that contributes to the conservation of Covered Species (including lands contained in existing reserves). As such, projects within and adjacent to PQP lands require an analysis of effects to PQP lands.
The project site is not within or adjacent to PQP lands; therefore, no PQP lands analysis is required.
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3.0 VEGETATION AND SPECIES COMPENDIA
The project site is vegetated by ruderal/ non-native annual grassland species (see Appendix A, Figure 4). Dominant plant species identified include vinegar weed ( Trichostema lanceolatum ), flatspine bur ragweed (Ambrosia acanthicarpa), Bermuda grass (Cynodon dactylon*), and slender wild oat (Avena barbata*). A complete list of plant species observed on the site is included in Appendix B.
Native trees onsite are limited to a single Goodding’s willow ( Salix gooddingii), located along the southern portion of the project. Non -native trees are located within the eastern project boundary, which consists of three Mexican fan palm ( Washingtonia robusta) seedlings. The Goodding’s willow located within the project site is expected to have at least a four -inch caliper, therefore, compliance with the City of Moreno Valley Municipal Code Chapter 9.17 (Landscape and Water Efficiency Requirements) is required.
Wildlife species observed were house sparrow ( Passer domesticus), yellow -rumped warbler (Setophaga coronata), and house finch (Haemorhous mexicanus).
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4.0 PROTECTION OF SPECIES ASSOCIATED WITH RIPARIAN/RIVERINE AREAS AND VERNAL POOLS (MSHCP SECTION 6.1.2)
Section 6.1.2 of the MSHCP requires assessment of impacts to riparian habitats, riverine areas, and vernal pools, including focused surveys for sensitive riparian bird and fairy shrimp species when suitable habitat is present. The intent of the assessment requirement is to provide for the protection of resources used by MSHCP-covered species, as well as existing and future downstream conservation areas. Riverine/riparian areas and vernal pools are defined in Section 6.1.2 of the MSHCP as follows:
Riparian/Riverine Areas are lands 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 pools are seasonal wetlands that occur in depression areas that have wetlands indicators of all three parameters (soils, vegetation and hydrology) during the wetter portion of the growing season but normally lack wetlands indicators of hydrology and/or vegetation during the drier portion of the growing season. Obligate hydrophytes and facultative wetlands 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. The determination that an area exhibits vernal pool characteristics, and the definition of the watershed supporting vernal pool hydrology, must be made on a case-by -case basis. Such determinations should consider the length of the time the area exhibits upland and wetland characteristics and the 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 characteristics, uses to which it has been subjected, and weather and hydrologic records.
Fairy Shrimp. For Riverside, vernal pool and Santa Rosa fairy shrimp, mapping of stock ponds, ephemeral pools and other features shall also be undertaken as determined appropriate by a qualified biologist.
With the exception of wetlands created for the purpose of providing wetlands Habitat or resulting from human actions to create open waters or from the alteration of natural stream courses, areas demonstrating characteristics as described above which are artificially created are not included in these definitions.
4.1 RIPARIAN/RIVERINE
4.1.1 Methods
The project site was assessed for riparian/riverine areas at the time of the October 30, 2024, site visit.
The assessment included identification and mapping of plant communities on the site as well as any drainage features.
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4.1.2 Existing Conditions and Results
There are no drainage features or riparian vegetation on the project site; therefore, there are no areas that would meet the MSHCP definition of riparian/riverine areas.
4.2 VERNAL POOLS
4.2.1 Methods
The project site was assessed for vernal pools at the time of the October 30, 2024, site visit. The assessment included a search for depressions, indicators of wetland hydrology, suitable soils, and hydrophytic vegetation . The assessment also included a review of seasonally appropriate aerial photographs (Google Earth: 10/2016, 3/2017, 12/2018, 8/2019, 4/2020, 1/2021, 8/2021, 1/2023, 3/2023, and 2/2024.)
4.2.2 Existing Conditions and Results
No ponded areas or features resembling vernal pools were observed on site or seen in aerial photographs as a result of previous development. The soils mapped and observed on the site are sandy loams, which are unlikely to support ponding sufficient for vernal pool formation. There are no areas of hydrophytic vegetation on the site. Therefore, there are no vernal pools.
4.3 FAIRY SHRIMP
4.3.1 Methods
The project site was assessed for fairy shrimp habitat at the same time and using the same methods as the assessment for vernal pools. The MSHCP calls for habitat assessments for three sensitive species of fairy shrimp: Santa Rosa Plateau fairy shrimp (Linderiella santarosae), Riverside fairy shrimp (Streptocephalus woottoni), and vernal pool fairy shrimp ( Branchinecta lynchi). Santa Rosa Plateau fairy shrimp occurs only on the Santa Rosa Plateau of extreme southwest Riverside County. A fourth sensitive spe cies of Southern California, San Diego fairy shrimp ( Branchinecta sandiegonensis ), is found primarily in coastal areas of Orange and San Diego Counties. It has been found as far inland as the Wildomar area of southwest Riverside County, but it is not expected in the project area. These sensitive fairy shrimp species inhabit vernal pools as well as stock ponds, large road ruts, or other similar habitats that pond water long enough to allow growth and reproduction. To provide fairy shrimp habitat, a feature must regularly pond water for at least 18 days for vernal pool fairy shrimp (Eriksen and Belk 1999) and 2 months for Riverside fairy shrimp (USFWS 2012).
4.3.2 Existing Conditions and Results
As noted above, there are no vernal pools on the project site. Due to the developed nature of the project site and soil conditions, the project site does not provide fairy shrimp habitat.
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4.4 RIPARIAN BIRDS
4.4.1 Methods
Habitat suitability for riparian birds, including least Bell’s vireo (LBVI; Vireo bellii pusillus ), southwestern willow flycatcher (SWFL; Empidonax traillii extimus ), and yellow -billed cuckoo (YBCU; Coccyzus americanus), was assessed in conjunction with the assessment for riverine/riparian areas.
4.4.2 Existing Conditions and Results
There are no riparian/riverine areas or any habitat suitable for riparian birds on the project site.
Therefore, no surveys for riparian birds will be required.
4.5 OTHER MSHCP SECTION 6.1.2 SPECIES
Due to the lack of riparian/riverine and vernal pool resources on or adjacent to the project site, the project site does not provide habitat for other MSHCP Section 6.1.2 species.
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5.0 PROTECTION OF NARROW ENDEMIC PLANT SPECIES
(MSHCP SECTION 6.1.3)
Section 6.1.3 of the MSHCP requires focused surveys for specified sensitive plant species if the project is located within a Narrow Endemic Plant Species Survey Area (NEPSSA) and suitable habitat is present. The project is not within a mapped survey area for NEPSSA species.
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6.0 ADDITIONAL SURVEY NEEDS AND PROCEDURES
(MSHCP SECTION 6.3.2)
MSHCP Section 6.3.2 requires surveys for additional plants, amphibians, small mammals, and burrowing owl (Athene cunicularia hypugaea) for projects located within mapped survey areas.
6.1 CRITERIA AREA PLANT SPECIES
The project is not within a mapped survey area for Criteria Area Species Survey Area plant species.
6.2 AMPHIBIANS
The project is not within a mapped survey area for amphibian species.
6.3 BURROWING OWL
Burrowing owls are found in open, dry grasslands, agricultural and range lands, and desert habitats often associated with burrowing animals. They can also inhabit grass, forb, and shrub stages of pinyon and ponderosa pine habitats. They nest in abandoned b urrows of ground squirrels or other animals, in pipes, under piles of rock or debris, and in other similar features.
6.3.1 Methods
Habitat suitability for burrowing owl (BUOW) was assessed at the time of the October 30, 2024, site visit. The assessment included an evaluation of soil texture, vegetative cover, topography, and the presence of mammal burrows, rock piles, or other areas suitable for nest construction.
6.3.2 Existing Conditions and Results
The site is an undeveloped lot with signs of disturbance. The site is surrounded by vastly developed land that contains utility poles that provide roosting spots for hawks and large owls that could prey upon BUOW. No burrows suitable for burrowing owl were found. Because of the limited habitat (ruderal/non-native grassland vegetation), lack of burrows or similar features suitable for BUOW occupation, and presence of roosting habitat for birds of prey, BUOW is not likely to occur on the project site and is c onsidered absent. Furthermore, due to lack of suitable habitat, the surrounding vicinity is unlikely to support burrowing owl.
6.3.3 Impacts and Mitigation
No impacts to BUOW are anticipated due to lack of suitable habitat and due to the site having habitat that is suitable to support species that may prey on burrowing owl. Additionally, no suitable burrowing owl burrows were observed within the project site during the field survey. Therefore, no focused surveys for BUOW are required.
6.4 MAMMALS
The project is not within a mapped survey area for mammals.
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7.0 INFORMATION ON OTHER SPECIES
7.1 DELHI SANDS FLOWER-LOVING FLY
The MSHCP requires surveys for Delhi sands flower-loving fly (Rhaphiomidas terminatus abdominalis) in most areas of mapped Delhi series soils where suitable habitat exists (MSHCP Section 9).
The project site is not within an area of mapped Delhi soils, and (as noted in Section 1 .0, above) soil observed throughout the site is sandy loam, which is inconsistent with Delhi soils; therefore, no survey or additional analysis is required for this species.
7.2 COASTAL CALIFORNIA GNATCATCHER
Permittees are required (per the USFWS Special Terms and Conditions for Permit TE -088609-0) to avoid clearing California gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica californica) occupied habitat in the Criteria Area and in PQP lands between March 1 and August 15.
The project site does not provide suitable coastal sage scrub habitat for the Coastal California gnatcatcher and is not within the Criteria Area or PQP lands.
7.3 SPECIES NOT ADEQUATELY CONSERVED
Some species that will eventually have full coverage under the MSHCP are not considered adequately conserved until requirements indicated in Table 9-3 of MSHCP Section 9 are met.
7.3.1 Methods
A literature review was conducted to investigate the potential occurrence of special-status species on the project site or in the vicinity. Database records for the Sunnymead, Riverside East, Steele Peak, and Perris, California United States Geological Survey 7.5 -minute quadrangles were searched on October 29, 2024, using the CDFW Natural Diversity Database application Rarefind 5 (CDFW n.d.).
7.3.2 Existing Results
None of the species lacking full coverage (see Section 1 1.3, Table A) ha ve been reported from the project site, and none w ere observed during the site visit. Given the habitat quality, none of these species have more than a low potential of being present.
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8.0 GUIDELINES PERTAINING TO THE URBAN/WILDLANDS INTERFACE (MSHCP SECTION 6.1.4)
To preserve the integrity of areas described as existing or future MSHCP Conservation Areas, the guidelines contained in MSHCP Section 6.1.4 (Urban Wildlands Interface Guidelines) are to be implemented for projects that are located adjacent to either existing conservation or land described for conservation in the MSHCP Criteria Area.
The project site is not located adjacent to conserved lands or lands in the Criteria Area that are described for conservation. Therefore, the Urban Wildlands Interface Guidelines do not apply to this project.
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9.0 POTENTIAL JURISDICTIONAL WATERS AND STREAMBEDS
No drainage features, ponded areas, or riparian habitat potentially subject to jurisdiction by the CDFW, United States Army Corps of Engineers, or Regional Water Quality Control Board were found within the project site.
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10.0 NESTING BIRDS
The wood fencing and utility poles adjacent to the project site may be used by hawks, ravens, or other large birds for nesting from January 1 to August 31. Trees, shrubs, and other vegetation on and adjacent to the project site may provide nest sites for smaller birds, and burrowing owls may nest in ground squirrel burrows, pipes, or similar features. Most birds and their active nests are protected from “ta ke” (meaning destruction, pursuit, possession, etc.) under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and/or Sections 3503–3801 of the California Fish and Game Code. Activities that cause destruction of active nests, or that cause nest abandonment and subsequent death of eggs or young, may constitute violations of one or both of these laws.
Prior to construction activities, including vegetation removal, a preconstruction nesting bird survey will be conducted between January 1 to August 31 by a qualified biologist within 3 days of any construction activities or vegetation removal. Should nesting birds be found, an exclusionary buffer will be established by the qualified biologist. The buffer will be clearly marked in the field by construction personnel under the guidance of the qualified biologist. No constructi on activities will be allowed within this zone until the qualified biologist determines that the young have fledged, or the nest is no longer active.
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11.0 CEQA COMPLIANCE
11.1 ADOPTED HABITAT CONSERVATION PLANS
Section 10(a)(2)(A) of the 1973 Federal Endangered Species Act requires the preparation of a habitat conservation plan (HCP) for incidental take of threatened or endangered species when there is no federal agency involvement in a project. Continuing land d evelopment may cause incidental take of listed species and, therefore, HCPs have been prepared for areas within western Riverside County.
The MSHCP and the Stephens’ Kangaroo Rat (SKR) (Dipodomys stephensi) HCP are the principal habitat conservation plans in western Riverside County. The USFWS regional office maintains a current list of habitat conservation plans for the Southern California region.
The project site is within the MSHCP area and within the SKR HCP fee area . Focused surveys for SKR will not be required for this project and a fee associated with the SKR HCP is required. The project site is not subject to any other adopted HCP.
11.2 THREATENED AND ENDANGERED SPECIES
The USFWS and CDFW may list species as threatened or endangered under the Federal and State Endangered Species Acts. The USFWS can designate critical habitat that identifies specific areas, either occupied or unoccupied, that are essential to the conservation of a listed species. Critical habitat areas may require special management considerations or protections. The USFWS and CDFW have issued permits for the take of most threatened and endangered species within the MSHCP Plan Area. The MSHCP covers impacts to these species. However, if a project has the involvement of a federal agency, that agency is required to address impacts to listed species and critical habitat by consulting with the USFWS. The USFWS has indicated in the permit issued for the MSHCP tha t, in such cases, the consultation will be expedited and that no restrictions will be imposed on the project beyond those specified in the MSHCP.
No threatened or endangered species are expected to occur on the project site.
11.3 OTHER SPECIAL-STATUS SPECIES
Other special -status species may occur on the proposed project site. The CDFW, USFWS, local agencies, and special interest groups, such as the California Native Plant Society, maintain lists of species that they consider to be in need of monitoring. Legal protection for special -status species varies widely.
The special-status species listed in Table A may be expected to occur in the general project vicinity but are not covered under the MSHCP or are not adequately conserved by the MSHCP at this time.
Some of these species have a low potential of occurring on the project site. However, none of these species that may be present are listed as threatened or endangered under State or federal law, and the site does not contain high quality habitat for any of these species. Therefore, any impacts to these species by the project would not be substantial. Neither ad ditional surveys nor additional conservation measures will be required by this project for these species.
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Species Status Habitat and Distribution Growth Form and Blooming Period
Occurrence
Probability
Abronia villosa
var. aurita
Chaparral sand-
verbena
US: –
CA: 1B
Sandy areas (generally flats and
benches along washes) in chaparral
and coastal sage scrub, and improbably
in desert dunes or other sandy areas,
below 1,600 meters (5,300 feet)
elevation. In California, reported from
Riverside, San Diego, Imperial, Los
Angeles, and Ventura Counties.
Believed extirpated from Orange
County. Also reported from Arizona
and Mexico (Baja California). Plants
reported from desert communities are
likely misidentified.
Blooms mostly
March through
August
(annual or
perennial herb)
Absent. Project
site lacks sandy
areas on flats and
benches along
washes. Chaparral
and coastal sage
scrub habitat not
present.
Chloropyron
maritimum spp.
maritimum
Salt marsh
bird’s-beak
US: FE
CA: SE/1B
Coastal dunes and salt marshes. In
California, known from Los Angeles,
Orange, Santa Barbara, San
Bernardino, San Diego, San Luis
Obispo, and Ventura Counties.
Historical collections referred to this
taxon from alkaline meadow in vicinity
of San Bernardino Valley and from
interior San Diego County are
intermediate to C. maritimus ssp.
canescens. Also occurs in Mexico.
Blooms May
through October
(annual herb)
Absent. Project
site lacks coastal
dunes and salt
marshes. Lepidium
virginicum var.
robinsonii
Robinson’s
pepper-grass
US: –
CA: 4
Dry soils in coastal sage scrub and
chaparral below 885 meters (2,900
feet) elevation. In California, known
only from Los Angeles, Orange,
Riverside, Santa Barbara, San
Bernardino and San Diego Counties,
and Santa Cruz Island. Also occurs in
Mexico.
Blooms January
through July
(annual herb)
Absent. Project
site lacks dry soils
in coastal sage
scrub and
chaparral.
Senecio
aphanactis
Chaparral
ragwort
US: –
CA: 2B
Openings (especially alkaline flats) in
cismontane woodland, coastal sage
scrub, and chaparral at 15 to 800
meters (50 to 2,600 feet) elevation.
Known in California from Alameda,
Contra Costa, Fresno, Los Angeles,
Merced, Monterey, Orange, Riverside,
Santa Barbara, Santa Clara, San Diego,
San Luis Obispo, Solano, and Ventura
Counties. Also occurs in Baja California.
Blooms January
through April
(annual herb)
Absent. Project
site lacks
cismontane
woodland, coastal
sage scrub, and
chaparral habitat.
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Species Status Habitat and Distribution Growth Form and Blooming Period
Occurrence
Probability
Symphyotrichum
defoliatum
San Bernardino
aster
US: –
CA: 1B
Vernally wet sites (such as ditches,
streams, and springs) in many plant
communities below 2,040 meters
(6,700 feet) elevation. In California,
known from Ventura, Kern, San
Bernardino, Los Angeles, Orange,
Riverside, and San Diego Counties. May
also occur in San Luis Obispo County. In
the western Riverside County area, this
species is scarce and documented only
from Temescal and San Timoteo
Canyons (The Vascular Plants of
Western Riverside County, California.
F.M. Roberts et al., 2004).
Blooms July
through November
(perennial herb)
Absent. Project
site lacks a water
source.
Accipiter cooperii
(nesting)
Cooper’s hawk
US: –
CA: SA
Forages in a wide range of habitats, but
primarily in forests and woodlands.
These include natural areas as well as
human-created habitats such as
plantations and ornamental trees in
urban landscapes. Usually nests in tall
trees (20 to 60 feet) in extensive
forested areas (generally woodlots of 4
to 8 hectares with canopy closure of
greater than 60 percent). Occasionally
nests in isolated trees in more open
areas.
Year-round Absent. No
suitable nesting
habitat (forests
and woodlands).
Bombus crotchii
Crotch’s bumble
bee
US: –
CA: SCE
Inhabits open scrub (including
chaparral) and grassland from coastal
California to crest of Sierra-Cascade
and in desert edge areas, south into
Mexico. Primarily nests underground.
Suitable bumble bee habitat requires
the continuous availability of flowers
on which to forage throughout the
duration of the colony (spring through
fall), colony nest sites, and
overwintering sites for the queens.
Spring and summer Low. No scrub
habitat present.
Project largely
consists of non-
native grasslands,
but is often
disturbed
resulting in the
destruction or
removal of
vegetation as seen
in aerial
photographs
throughout the
years. Therefore,
no suitable flower
availability is
present to support
a colony.
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Species Status Habitat and Distribution Growth Form and Blooming Period
Occurrence
Probability
Bombus
pensylvanicus
American
bumble bee
US: –
CA: SA
Inhabits open farmland and fields
throughout the U.S. Also occurs in
Canada and Mexico. Primarily nests at
the ground surface in tall grass, but
occasionally underground. Suitable
bumble bee habitat requires the
continuous availability of flowers on
which to forage throughout the
duration of the colony (spring through
fall), colony nest sites, and
overwintering sites for the queens.
Spring and summer Absent. Grassland
vegetation is
limited, and the
site does not
contain sufficient
flower resources
to support a
colony.
Anniella stebbinsi
Southern
California legless
lizard
US: –
CA: SSC
Inhabits sandy or loose loamy soils
with high moisture content under
sparse vegetation in Southern
California.
Nearly year-round,
at least in southern
areas
Absent. Although
loamy soils are
present, this
species is
considered absent
based on the high
level of
disturbance and
surrounding
development.
Arizona elegans
occidentalis
California glossy
snake
US: –
CA: SSC
Scrub and grassland habitats, often
with loose or sandy soils. Patchily
distributed from the eastern portion of
San Francisco Bay to southern San
Joaquin Valley and in non-desert areas
of Southern California. Also occurs in
Baja California, Mexico.
Most active March
through June
(nocturnal)
Absent. No
suitable soils and
although
grasslands are
present, this
species is
considered absent
based on the high
level of
disturbance and
surrounding
development.
Diadophis
punctatus
modestus
San Bernardino
ringneck snake
US: –
CA: SA
Under surface objects along drainage
courses, preferring mesic chaparral
and oak and walnut woodland
communities. Moist habitats of
southwestern California from about
Ventura to Orange Counties.
Diurnal.
Crepuscular and
nocturnal during
warmer periods.
Absent. Project
site lacks drainage
and favorable
habitat (mesic
chapparal, oak,
and walnut
communities).
Salvadora
hexalepis
virgultea
Coast patch-
nosed snake
US: –
CA: SSC
Coastal chaparral, washes, sandy flats
and rocky areas. Widely distributed
throughout lowlands, up to 2,130
meters (7,000 feet) elevation, of
Southern California from coast to the
eastern border.
Active diurnally
throughout most of
the year
Absent. Project
site lacks coastal
chaparral, washes,
sandy flats, and
rocky areas.
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Species Status Habitat and Distribution Growth Form and Blooming Period
Occurrence
Probability
Asio otus
(nesting)
Long-eared owl
US: –
CA: SSC
Scarce and local in forests and
woodlands throughout much of the
Northern Hemisphere. Rare resident in
coastal Southern California. Nests and
roosts in dense willow-riparian
woodland and oak woodland, but
forages over wider areas. Breeds from
valley foothill hardwood up to
ponderosa pine habitat.
Nocturnal; year-
round
Absent. No
suitable habitat
(forests and
woodlands).
Laterallus
jamaicensis
coturniculus
California black
rail
US: –
CA: ST/CFP
Requires shallow water in salt marshes,
freshwater marshes, wet meadows, or
flooded grassy vegetation. Prefers
areas of moist soil vegetated by fine-
stemmed emergent plants, rushes,
grasses, or sedges, with scattered small
pools. Known from coastal California,
northwestern Baja California, the lower
Imperial Valley, and the lower
Colorado River of Arizona and
California. Now extirpated from
virtually all of coastal Southern
California.
Year-round Absent. Project
site lacks a water
source.
Spinus lawrencei
(=Carduelis l.)
(nesting)
Lawrence’s
goldfinch
US: –
CA: SA
Usually inhabits oak woodlands, but
also uses chaparral, riparian
woodlands, coastal scrub, forests,
pinyon-juniper woodlands, plantings of
cypress, cedars, or junipers, tall weedy
and adjacent rural residential areas. A
water source such as a stream, small
lake, or farm pond within 0.5 kilometer
is probably required. Nests throughout
much of the non-desert portion of
California and Baja California.
Fairly common
April through
August; otherwise,
uncommon
Absent. Project
site lacks forests,
cypress, cedar,
oak, riparian, or
pinyon-juniper
woodland.
Surrounding lands
are also vastly
developed.
Ceratochrysis
longimala
Desert cuckoo
wasp
US: –
CA: SA
Habitat requirements unknown.
Known from the Gorman area (Los
Angeles County), where it is presumed
to persist. Also known from a historical
record (1915, old part of Riverside)
from Riverside County.
Unknown Absent. Not
expected due to
the high level of
disturbance and
previous
development.
Eugnosta
busckana
Busck’s gallmoth
US: –
CA: SA
Larval host reported as Encelia
californica (HOSTS - a Database of the
World's Lepidopteran Host plants. The
Natural History Museum, London,
2007). Other habitat requirements
unknown. Species is known only from
historical reports.
Unknown Absent. The host
plant does not
occur. This species
is not expected
due to the high
level of
disturbance and
previous
development.
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Species Status Habitat and Distribution Growth Form and Blooming Period
Occurrence
Probability
Eumops perotis
californicus
Western mastiff
bat
US: –
CA: SSC
Occurs in many open, semi-arid to arid
habitats, including conifer and
deciduous woodlands, coastal scrub,
grasslands, chaparral, etc.; roosts in
crevices in vertical cliff faces, high
buildings, and tunnels, and travels
widely when foraging.
Year-round;
nocturnal
Low. Project site
lacks semi-arid to
arid habitats such
as conifer and
deciduous
woodlands,
coastal scrub,
grasslands, and
chaparral habitat.
However, site may
be used during
foraging activities.
Lasiurus
xanthinus
Western yellow
bat
US: –
CA: SSC
Found mostly in desert and desert
riparian areas of the southwest U.S.,
but also expanding its range with the
increased usage of native and non-
native ornamental palms in
landscaping. Individuals typically roost
amid dead fronds of palms in desert
oasis but have also been documented
roosting in cottonwood trees. Forages
over many habitats.
Year-round;
nocturnal
Low. No roosting
habitat. Palms
observed on site
are roughly 4 feet
tall and not
suitable for
roosting. May use
the site during
foraging activities.
Nyctinomops
femorosaccus
Pocketed free-
tailed bat
US: –
CA: SSC
Usually associated with cliffs, rock
outcrops, or slopes. May roost in
buildings (including roof tiles) or caves.
Rare in California, where it is found in
Riverside, San Diego, Imperial, and
possibly Los Angeles Counties. More
common in Mexico.
Year-round;
nocturnal
Low. Project site
lacks cliffs, rock
outcrops, and
slopes.
Surrounding
development may
providing general
roosting habitat.
Onychomys
torridus ramona
Southern
grasshopper
mouse
US: –
CA: SSC
Believed to inhabit sandy or gravelly
valley floor habitats with friable soils in
open and semi-open scrub, including
coastal sage scrub, mixed chaparral, low
sagebrush, riparian scrub, and annual
grassland with scattered shrubs,
preferring low to moderate shrub cover.
More susceptible to small- and large-
scale habitat loss and fragmentation
than most other rodents, due to its low
fecundity, low population density, and
large home range size. Arid portions of
southwestern California and
northwestern Baja California.
Nocturnal, active
year-round
Absent. No sandy
or gravelly areas
with friable soils
on site; no
suitable plant
community on
site.
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Species Status Habitat and Distribution Growth Form and Blooming Period
Occurrence
Probability
Taxidea taxus
American badger
US: –
CA: SSC
Primary habitat requirements seem to
be sufficient food and friable soils in
relatively open uncultivated ground in
grasslands, woodlands, and desert.
Widely distributed in North America.
Year-round Absent. No
suitable burrows
on site; habitat
poor.
Source: Compiled by LSA (2024).
LEGEND
US: Federal Classifications
FE Listed as Endangered.
CA: State Classifications
SE State-listed as Endangered.
ST State-listed as Threatened.
SCE Candidate for State-listing as Endangered.
SSC Species of Special Concern. Refers to animals with vulnerable or seriously declining populations.
SA Special Animal. Refers to any other animal monitored by the Natural Diversity Database, regardless of its legal or rarity status.
LEGEND (Continued)
CFP California Fully Protected. Refers to animals protected from take under Fish and Game Code sections 3511, 4700, 5050, and 5515.
1A California Rare Plant Rank 1A – presumed extinct in California. 1B California Rare Plant Rank 1B – rare, threatened, or endangered in California and elsewhere. 2B California Rare Plant Rank 2 – rare, threatened, or endangered in California, but more common elsewhere. 4 California Rare Plant Rank 4 – a watch list of plants of limited distribution.
11.4 WILDLIFE MOVEMENT, CORRIDORS, AND NURSERY SITES
Wildlife movement includes seasonal migration along corridors, as well as daily movements for foraging. Migration corridors may include areas of unobstructed movement of deer, riparian corridors providing cover for migrating birds, routes between breeding waters and upland habitat for amphibians, and between roosting and feeding areas for birds.
The project site has been previously developed and is located adjacent to Indian Street, which has a high volume of traffic, and is surrounded by existing development that already restrict s wildlife movement in the project vicinity. The project is also not within an MSHCP designated linkage or corridor. The proposed project would not substantially limit wildlife movement.
In addition, due to the developed nature of the project site, it does not serve as a nursery site.
11.5 NATURAL COMMUNITIES OF INTEREST
Riparian habitats, oak woodlands, and vernal pools are among the natural communities of interest to the CDFW.
There are no riparian communities, vernal pools, or other sensitive plant communities on the project site.
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11.6 WETLANDS
There are no wetlands on the project site.
11.7 LOCAL POLICIES AND ORDINANCES PROTECTING BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES City of Moreno Valley and County of Riverside General Plans and development ordinances may include regulations or policies governing biological resources. For example, policies may include tree preservation, locally designated species survey areas, local species of interest, and significant ecological areas.
The project will need to abide by the City’s Local Tree Ordinance since trees are present within the project site and therefore applicable.
11.8 INDIRECT EFFECTS
Indirect impacts to surrounding areas as a result of the project may include, but are not limited to, increased dust, noise, lighting, traffic, and storm water runoff. Because of the small scale of the project that was previously entirely developed, and its location within a landscape that is already highly disturbed or developed, substantial indirect impacts to sensitive biological resources are not anticipated.
11.9 CUMULATIVE EFFECTS
Project construction will contribute to a minimal loss of ruderal/non -native annual grassland in the region. Cumulative impacts potentially include habitat fragmentation, increased edge effects, reduced habitat quality, and increased wildlife mortality. The MSHCP provides a comprehensive approach to the regional conservation of these hab itats and, as a regional plan, serves to provide mitigation for cumulative impacts to covered species. Project compliance and consistency with the MSHCP ensures that any cum ulative impacts to covered species are effectively mitigated. Special- status species that are not covered by the MSHCP also benefit from the surveys, conservation, and other measures of the MSHCP because they occupy many of the same habitats.
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12.0 REFERENCES
California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW). n.d. California Natural Diversity Database, Rarefind 5, Version 5.3.0. Website: https://wildlife.ca.gov/Data/CNDDB/ (accessed October 2024).
County of Riverside . 2006. Burrowing Owl Survey Instructions for the Western Riverside Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan Area.
Eriksen, C., and D. Belk. 1999. Fairy Shrimps of California’s Puddles, Pools, and Playas. Mad River Press, Inc., Eureka, California.
Google Earth . “10/2016, 3/2017, 12/2018, 8/2019, 4/2020, 1/2021, 8/2021, 1/2023, 3/2023, and 2/2024” Google Earth, Google, earth.google.com/web/ (accessed October 2024).
Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). n.d. Web Soil Survey (Version 3.4.0). United States Department of Agriculture. Website: https://websoilsurvey.sc.egov.usda.gov/ (accessed October 2024).
United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 2012. Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Revised Critical Habitat for the Riverside Fairy Shrimp; Final Rule. Federal Register 77:
72070-72140 (December 4, 2012).
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13.0 CERTIFICATION STATEMENT
I hereby certify that the statements furnished in this report present the data and information required for this biological evaluation and the facts, statements, and information presented are true and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief.
Date: January 7, 2025 Signature:
Chrissy Kent
Assistant Biologist
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APPENDIX A
FIGURES
Figure 1: Regional and Project Location
Figure 2: Project Area
Figure 3: Soils
Figure 4: Vegetation and Photo Points
Figure 5: Representative Site Photos
P:\2024\20241908_Moreno Valley Public Storage\Technical Studies\Bio\Figures;12ͬϭ8ͬϮϬϮϰͿ WŚŽƚŽϭ͗View looking northfrom southern boundary of
Project.
WŚŽƚŽϮ͗View looking southeast from northwest boundary of the Project͘
WŚŽƚŽϯ͗View looking towards Indian Street from
the northeastern boundary of the Project͘
WŚŽƚŽϰ͗View looking northwest from southeastern boundary of the Project.
Public Storage Moreno Valley Project
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B-1
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APPENDIX B
PLANT AND ANIMAL SPECIES OBSERVED
Scientific Name Common Name
MAGNOLIID FLOWERING PLANTS
Asteraceae Sunflower family
Ambrosia acanthicarpa Flatspine bur ragweed
Deinandra paniculata Paniculate tarplant
Euphorbiaceae Spurge family
Croton setigerus Dove weed
Euphorbia polycarpa Smallseed sandmat
Lamiaceae Mint family
Trichostema lanceolatum Vinegar weed
Malvaceae Mallow family
Malva parviflora* Cheeseweed mallow
Salicaceae Willow family
Salix gooddingii Goodding’s willow
MONOCOT FLOWERING PLANTS
Arecaceae Palm family
Washingtonia robusta* Mexican fan palm
Poaceae Grass family
Avena barbata* Slender wild oat
Cynodon dactylon* Bermuda grass
Pennisetum setaceum* African fountain grass
BIRDS
Passeridae Old World Sparrows
Passer domesticus* House sparrow
Fringillidae Finches
Haemorhous mexicanus House finch
Parulidae Wood Warblers
Setophaga coronata Yellow-rumped warbler