07_Soar - Biological Habitat Assessment - 012025 — Visalia City Council, June 2, 2025

B
iological Habitat Assessment
Blankenship Subdivision Development Project
Assessor Parcel Number 123-400-001 and 123-400-005
Caldwell Avenue and Santa Fe Street in Visalia, California P
repared for
San Joaquin Valley Homes
5607 Avenida de los Robles
Visalia, California 93291
Prepared by
1 322 East Shaw Avenue, Suite 400
Fresno, CA 93710
J
anuary 20, 2025

P
age 1 of 59
Executive Summary
S
oar Environmental Consulting Inc. (Soar Environmental) was retained by San Joaquin Valley Homes (Client) to conduct a literature review and reconnaissance-level survey for the proposed Andover Place Unit 1. The project is located within the City of Visalia, California, south of Caldwell Avenue between Santa Fe Street and Burke Street, USGS 7.5 Minute Quad: Visalia, NW Corner Section 8 Township 19S, Range 25E (Project). The survey identified vegetation communities and the potential for the occurrence of special- status species or habitats that could support special -status wildlife species, and recorded all plants and animals observed or detected within the Project boundary. This Habitat Assessment is designed to address potential effects of the proposed project on any species currently listed or formally proposed for listing as endangered or threatened under the Federal Endangered Species Act (ESA) or the California Endangered Species Act (CESA) or species designated as sensitive by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) or the California Native Plant Society (CNPS) . The information in this document is in accordance with accepted scientific and technical standards and is consistent with the requirements of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and CDFW. Additionally, the site was surveyed for drainage features that would meet the definition of the Waters of the U .S. (WOUS), Waters of the State (WOS), or CDFW jurisdiction.

This Habitat Assessment was conducted in accordance with CEQA guidelines §15060. The objectives of the assessment are to 1) provide a general characterization of biological resources for the property; 2) inventory plant and wildlife species; 3) evaluate the potential for federally listed plant and animal species to occur or be adversely affected; and 4) describe the property’s sensitive biological resources.

This Habitat Assessment provides information about the biological resources within the Project area .

Prior to field activities, Soar Environmental researched the California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB), the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) Information for Planning and Consultation (IPaC), and the California Native Plant Society’s (CNPS) Inventory of Rare and Endangered Plants of California, to compile a list of special-status species that could potentially be present in the vicinity of the Project area.

Soar Environmental researched specific species and habitat requirements for the species noted in the CNDDB, IPaC, and CNPS databases and included species listing status and proximal species observations in this report.

Based on documented occurrences of special-status species from the data record search and analysis of current environmental conditions , it was determined there is potential for Nuttall’s woodpecker (Picoides nuttallii) to occur within the vicinity of the Project area. No other special-status plant or wildlife species were observed in the Project area during the Habitat Assessment, and no other listed species were found likely to occur . With the implementation of appropriate mitigation measures, the proposed development of this property is unlikely to have any permanent impact on Nuttall’s woodpecker or any other listed species identified in this report.

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Contents
Exe
cutive Summary ............................................................................................................................................ 1

1. Introduction .................................................................................................................................................. 4

1.1 Project Location ...................................................................................................................................... 5

1.2 Project Description .................................................................................................................................. 6

1.3 Regulatory Background ........................................................................................................................... 6

1.3.1 Federal Endangered Species Act ...................................................................................................... 6

1.3.2 California Endangered Species Act ................................................................................................... 7

1.3.3 California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) .................................................................................. 7

1.3.4 Migratory Bird Treaty Act ................................................................................................................. 7

1.3.5 City of Visalia Oak Tree Mitigation Policy ......................................................................................... 8

2. Existing Conditions ........................................................................................................................................ 8 Valley Oak Woodland ................................................................................................................................ 8 Wetland Habitats ...................................................................................................................................... 9

3. M
ethods ....................................................................................................................................................... 9

3.1 Literature Review .................................................................................................................................... 9

3.2 Field Reconnaissance Methodology ........................................................................................................ 9

4. Habitat Assessment Results ........................................................................................................................ 10

5. Special-Status Species ................................................................................................................................. 13

5.1 Special-Status Wildlife Species Descriptions ......................................................................................... 22 Bird Species .............................................................................................................................................. 22 Invertebrates Species ............................................................................................................................... 24 Mammal Species ...................................................................................................................................... 24 Reptile Species ......................................................................................................................................... 25

5.2 Special-Status Plant Species .................................................................................................................. 25

6. Findings 25
Pr
oject Impacts ............................................................................................................................................ 26

7. Conclusion ................................................................................................................................................... 26

8. Reco
mmendations ...................................................................................................................................... 27

9. Study Limitations ........................................................................................................................................ 28 Literature Cited ................................................................................................................................................ 29

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Fig
ures
Figure 1. Project Location ............................................................................................................. 5 Figure 2. Site Plan ......................................................................................................................... 6 Figure 3. Project Site Map ............................................................................................................ 10 Figure 4. Map of CNDDB Occurrences ......................................................................................... 21 T
ables
Table 1. Wildlife Species Observed in the Project Area ............................................................... 11 Table 2. Plant Species Observed in the Project Area ................................................................... 12 Table 3. Potentially Occurring Listed Wildlife Species ................................................................. 14 Table 4. Regionally Occurring Special-Status Plant Species ......................................................... 18 A
ppendices
APPENDIX A: Project Site Photographs ....................................................................................... 30 APPENDIX B: United States Fish and Wildlife Service IPaC Resource List ................................... 54 APPENDIX C: California Department of Fish and Wildlife RareFind ............................................ 55 APPENDIX D: California Native Plant Society Rare Plant Inventory ............................................ 56 APPENDIX E: United States Fish and Wildlife Service: National Wetland Inventory Map .......... 57 APPENDIX F: Project Site Plan ..................................................................................................... 58

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1. Introduction
The proposed Project is a residential housing development o n a 62.54-ac re property located at East Caldwell Avenue and Santa Fe Street in the city of Visalia, Tulare County, California. Soar Environmental Consulting Inc. (Soar Environmental) has been tasked to prepare technical studies to support the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) compliance on behalf of the City of Visalia , Tulare County, CA.

The Project area consists entirely of disturbed, agricultural, and ruderal habitat types. The property contains walnut orchards and is permeated by non-native grasses. The site is surrounded by paved roadways except for the southern boundary, which is bordered by an irrigation canal and vineyards. Large, sparsely distributed valley oak trees line the project site on the south and eastern borders of the project.

Surrounding vegetation includes both native and non -native ornamental trees and shrubs, and ruderal weeds associated with urbanized landscapes.

This Habitat Assessment presents the findings of our Literature Review ( Section 3.1) based on the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) Natural Diversity Data Base (CNDDB), the California Native Plant Society (CNPS) online electronic inventory of rare and endangered California plants, the U.S.

Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) Information for Planning and Consultation ( IPaC) for reported occurrences of special-status vegetation communities, plants, and animals.

Based on the proximity of documented occurrences of special -status species from the Literature Review and Habitat Assessment , the following special-status species were identified as having the potential to occur in the vicinity of the Project area and were considered for further analysis:

Po
tentially Occurring Special-Status Wildlife Species
Species with Low Potential for Occurrence:
1) California gull (Larus californicus)
2) Crotch’s bumblebee (Bombus crotchii)
3) Oak titmouse (Baeolophus inornatus)
4) San Joaquin kit fox (Vulpes macrotis mutica)
5) Swainson’s hawk (Buteo swainsoni)
6) Western pond turtle (Emys marmorata)
7) Western yellow-billed cuckoo (Coccyzus americanus occidentalis) 8) Nuttall’s woodpecker (Picoides nuttallii)
*Tables 3 & 4 provide a complete list of special status species considered in this report's analysis.

A qualified biologist from Soar Environmental conducted a habitat assessment on December 13, 2024.

During the assessment, one special-status wildlife species, Nuttall’s woodpecker (Picoides nuttallii), was observed near the property. No special-status plant species were observed in the Project area . Suitable habitat features on the project site included Valley Oak Woodland Habitat, largely composed from heritage-size valley oak trees. Other potential nesting bird habitats surrounding the site, including Walnut orchards, ornamental trees and shrubs, and utility poles.

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Based on the findings of the Habitat Assessment, the proposed development of this Project is not likely to adversely affect any of the special -status species identified in the Literature Review section of this report through the use of appropriate Avoidance and Minimization Measures.

1.1 Project Location
The project is located on the southern edge of the City of Visalia, California, south of Caldwell Avenue between Santa Fe Street and Burke Street. It is comprised of Assessor Parcel Numbers (APN) 123-400-001 and 123-400-005, at an elevation of approximately 325 feet. The Project area is on the southeastern side of the city , approximately two miles south of California State Route (SR ) 198. The Project a rea is in the U.S.G.S. 7.5 Minute Quad: Visalia, NW Corner Section 8, Township 19S, Range 25E.

Figure 1. Project Location

Caldwell Avenue and Santa Fe Street in Visalia, California Assessor Parcel Number (APN) 123-400- 001 and 123-400-005.

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1.2 Project Description
The proposed project is a housing development comprising 201 units, including a 6.85-acre lot zoned for commercial use. The Project site is a 62.54-acre agricultural orchard consisting of Assessor Parcel Numbers (APN) 123-400-001 and 123-400-005. Project activities will be limited to the property boundary.

Upon completion, the development site will be bordered by decorative landscaping, including the existing Valley oak trees around the parcel boundary's perimeter . Ground-disturbing activities are expected to commence outside of the nesting bird breeding season (February 1 and September 15). Therefore, no impact on nesting bird species will result from project-related activities.

Figure 2. Site Plan

A detailed site plan is shown in Appendix F.

1.3 Regulatory Background

1.3.1 Federal Endangered Species Act
The Federal Endangered Species Act (ESA) prohibits the “take” of federally listed endangered or threatened wildlife species. “Take” is defined to include harassing, harming (including significantly modifying or degrading habitat), pursuing, hunting, shooting, wounding, killing, trapping, capturing, or

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collecting wildlife species or any attempt to engage in such conduct (16 USC 1532, 50 CFR 17.3). Actions that result in take can result in civil or criminal penalties. The federal ESA and Section 404 guidelines prohibit the issuance of wetland permits for projects that would jeopardize the existence of threatened or endangered species. The US Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE or Corps) must consult with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and possibly the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) when threatened or endangered species may be affected by the proposed project to determine whether issuance of a Section 404 permit would jeopardize the continued existence species. In the context of the project site, the federal ESA would be triggered if development resulted in the take of a threatened or endangered species or if the issuance of a Section 404 permit or other federal agency action could adversely affect or jeopardize a threatened or endangered species.

1.3.2 California Endangered Species Act
The state ESA is similar to the federal ESA but pertains to state -listed endangered and threatened species. It required state agencies to consult with the California Department of Fish and Game when preparing California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) documents to ensure that the state lead agency actions do not jeopardize the existence of listed species. It directs agencies to consult with DFG on projects or actions that could affect listed species, directs DFG to determine whether jeopardy would occur, a nd allows DFG to identify “reasonable and prudent alternatives” to the project consistent with conserving the species. Agencies can approve a project that affects a listed species if they determine that there are “overriding considerations”; however, the a gencies are prohibited from approving projects that would result in the extinction of a listed species. The state ESA prohibits the taking of state-listed endangered or threatened plant and wildlife species. DFG exercises authority over mitigation projects involving state- listed species, including those resulting from CEQA mitigation requirements. DFG may authorize “take” if an approved habitat management plan or management agreement that avoids or compensates for possible jeopardy is implemented. DFG required preparation of mitigation plans in accordance with published guidelines.

1.3.3 California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)
CEQA applies to public agencies in California with discretionary authority over project approvals and permits. CEQA requires that the impacts of proposed projects be assessed before the project is approved.

Projects with significant environmental impacts can only be approved with adequate mitigation or compensation unless a finding of overriding consideration is made. Discretionary approval from public agencies may require avoidance measures or compensatory mitigation. CEQA also provides that less than significant impacts of an in dividual project can be treated as significant if they contribute to significant cumulative impacts on the environment.

1.3.4 Migratory Bird Treaty Act
The Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) was first enacted in 1918 and authorized the Secretary of the Interior to regulate the “taking” of migratory birds. Specifically, the MBTA states that it shall be unlawful, except as permitted by regulations, to “at any time, by any means, or in any manner, to pursue, take, kill, possess, sale, purchase, ship, transport, carry, or export, at any time, or in any manner, any migratory bird, or any part, nest, or egg of any such bird” (16 USC 703). The current list of species protected by the MBTA is located in Title 50, CFR Section 10.13.

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1.3.5 City of Visalia Oak Tree Mitigation Policy
As described in the City of Visalia Valley Oak Tree Protection Ordinance ; It is unlawful for any person to willfully remove, destroy, damage, mutilate, poison, or attempt to kill an oak tree in the city, except as may be allowed pursuant to a removal permit as provided for in Section 12.24.030, or as designated in a notice to prune an oak tree that satisfies of Article 3.

Any person desiring to destroy or remove an oak tree on private or public property must apply for and obtain a removal permit. Such application shall be in writing to the city clerk, who shall forward such application to the city manager of the city. The application shall contain the number, size, and location of the oak trees and a brief statement of the reason for the requested action. The city manager shall charge a fee for said permit, established by the city council's annual designation of city fees.

2. Existing Conditions
The Project area is a 62.54-acre rectangular-shaped inactive walnut orchard located on the city's southern edge at an elevation of approximately 325 feet above mean sea level (AMSL). Ground cover on the property is mostly bare ground, with ruderal weeds and grasses dominating the edges of the property.

Paved roadways border the north and west sides of the Project site, with East Caldwell Avenue to the north and Santa Fe Street to the west. A city bike path and fence along the railroad and Santa Fe Street occurs on the western boundary of the project and contains several ornamentally planted trees, including western Sycamore (Platanus racemosa), western redbud (Cercis occidentalis), and olive (Olea europaea).

Agricultural land dominates the landscape to the south, with an urban environment to the north. There is ongoing residential development to the north, east, and west.

The project site is bordered by several large -diameter valley oak (Quercus lobata) trees along its southern and eastern boundaries. A riverine feature known as the Tulare Irrigation Canal also borders the southern boundary of the project site, and there is a large grape vineyard south of the canal and project site. The Visalia U.S.G.S. quadrangle map shows that the Tulare Irrigation Canal connects to Packwood Creek and Cameron Creek as a riverine habitat. Cameron Creek is approximately 0.18 miles south of the Project site.

Valley Oak Woodland
Valley Oak (Quercus lobata) Woodland habitat supports breeding, foraging, and shelter habitat for several wildlife species. Species observed in this habitat during the biological assessment include Nuttal’s woodpecker (Picoides nuttallii) . Evidence was observed of cache trees for the Acorn woodpecker (Melanerpes formicivorus ), and there is potential for use by oak titmouse ( Baeolophus inornatus ) and other avian wildlife species.

As mentioned previously, the project site contains scattered large -diameter heritage sized valley oak trees bordering the southern border of the Project site along the Tulare I rrigation Canal and along the eastern boundary of the project . The City of Visalia Valley Oak Tree Protection Ordinance regulates oak tree removals or impacts. The Valley Oak Tree Protection Ordinance generally describes preservation criteria for oak trees within designated open space areas. Oak tree removal, revegetation, and mitigation will be in accordance with the Valley Oak Tree Protection Ordinance framework.

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Wetland Habitats
According to the National W etland Inventory, a riverine habitat , the Tulare Irrigation Canal runs adjacent to the property's southern boundary (Appendix E). This canal appears to be part of a matrix of the Kaweah Delta watershed and is connected to various tributaries within the watershed, including Cameron Creek and Packwood Creek, and is controlled and maintained by the Tulare County Irrigation District. During the Habitat Assessment field survey, this drainage was completely dry and sparsely covered with ruderal weeds. During the site visit, it was noted that the natural habitat around this canal was mostly disturbed, with dirt roads running along both sides of the canal. Several large-diameter valley oak trees bordered the canal along the Project Boundary (Photos 1, 3, 4, 27, 28, 36, & 38).

3. Methods

3.1 Literature Review
Before performing the Habitat Assessment , Soar Environmental searched for threatened or endangered species that could occur near the Project area . The records search included a review of the California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB), the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) Information for Planning and Consultation (IPaC), and the California Native Plant Society (CNPS) Online Rare Pl ant Inventory. The area covered by the data records search included the USGS 7.5 -minute quadrangles of Visalia, Cairn’s Corner, Exeter, Goshen, Ivanhoe, Monson, Paige, Traver, and Tulare. These sources generated a list of special-status plant and animal species . Proximal locations of special -status plant and animal species located within 5 miles of the Project Site are shown in (Figure 5).

An analysis of special-status species from CNDDB records identified eight State and/or federally listed wildlife species that historically occurred near the Project area. These eight wildlife species were considered for further analysis. T he CNPS Online Rare Plant Inventory identified twenty-one regionally occurring special-status plant species historically occurring near the Project area. However, an analysis of habitat and existing conditions determined that all special-status plant species identified are absent from or unlikely to occur within the Project area due to long-term ongoing disturbance from active agriculture and/or the absence of suitable habitat within the Project area and were excluded from further analysis (Section 5).

3.2 Field Reconnaissance Methodology
The Habitat Assessment is a diurnal, non -protocol survey. The purpose of the Habitat Assessment Survey was to search for the presence or suitable habitat for special -status species that have historically been known to occur in the area. The Habitat Assessment site visit includes observing and noting the plant and wildlife species occurring on and around the Project site, habitat suitability for the species named in the Literature Review, present environmental conditions, and habitat, including microhabitat (only observable from the ground level).

The Habitat Assessment was conducted on December 13, 2024, by Soar Environmental biologist Lucas Knox in order to assess the habitat quality for species listed in Section 5. Survey efforts emphasized the search for suitable habitats or the presence of special-status species that had documented occurrences in

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the data records search of the CNDDB, IPaC, and CNPS databases. The site visit involves walking the property's perimeter and meandering transects throughout the Project area. During the site visit, the surveyor identified vegetation and searched for bird nests, possible small mammal dens, vernal pools, and other signs of wildlife occupancy or associated suitable habitat features. The biologist also surveyed the surrounding area by vehicle where accessible within 0.5 miles of the Project Site to look for bio logical resources and features that may be conducive to the suitable habitats for the identified special-status species. During the surveys, the biologist collected photos of the Project boundaries and other points of interest depicting the habitat and potential biological resources (Appendix A).

Figure 3. Project Site Map

Project area: 62.54 acres

4. Habitat Assessment Results
Paved roadways surround the project site with East Caldwell Avenue to the north, Santa Fe Street to the west, and Burke Street to the east. During the site visit, a sizeable vacant field with new herbaceous non-native ruderal plant growth was present north of the project site and Caldwell Avenue. The project site is bordered by several large -diameter valley oak ( Quercus lobata) trees along the southern and

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eastern boundaries of the project. The entire Project site consists of agricultural walnut orchards (Juglans species), which were actively being removed and placed in piles during the site visit. Groundcover along the boundaries of the Project site and portions of the walnut orchard are dominated by ruderal weeds and grasses, with large areas of bare ground. Commercial and residential properties with ornamental trees and shrubs are present north, east, and west of the Project site. A riverine feature known as the Tulare Irrigation Canal is adjacent to the southern boundary. During the site visit, the Tulare Irrigation Canal was dry and had sparse ruderal weeds growing in it.

The Project site is transected by two lateral farm roads between the walnut orchards from east to west, as well as an overhead utility line and irrigation systems to the property. During the site visit, twenty- two common bird species and thirty -three common plant species were observed within and adjacent to the Project site (Tables 1 & 2). Powerline poles and large trees in the vicinity were inspected for raptor nests and cavities. No large stick nests were observed. However, several cavities were present within the large valley oak trees along the southern and eastern edges of the project area.

Due to the predominantly agricultural ground cover, no small mammal burrows were present within the Project site; however, a few were present along the outskirts of the southern and eastern boundaries and the banks of the Tulare Irrigation Canal. R odent control poison tube traps were observed along the irrigation canal and vineyard south of the P roject, presumably targeting California ground squirrels (Otospermophilus beecheyi).

The survey was conducted by a qualified biologist outside of the blooming period for most of the sensitive plant species listed in Table 4 and outside the normal nesting bird season. However, no special- status plant species were seen within or near the Project area, and conditions for these species do not appear conducive due to the loss of a native seed bank from implementation of long-term agricultural practices.

During the site visit, one special-status wildlife species, Nutall’s woodpecker (Dryobates nuttallii), was present during the survey, and no other special -status plants or wildlife species were observed. Wildlife and plant species observed on or near the property are listed below in Tables 1 & 2.

Table 1. Wildlife Species Observed in the Project Area
Common/ Scientific Name
Listing
Status
Common/ Scientific Name
Listing
Status
American Bushtit
(Psaltriparus minimus) MBTA
Lesser Goldfinch
(Spinus psaltria) MBTA
American Pipit
(Anthus rubescens) MBTA
Merlin
(Falco columbarius) MBTA
Anna's Hummingbird
(Calypte anna) MBTA
Mourning dove
(Zenaida macroura) MBTA
Black Phoebe
(Sayornis nigricans) MBTA
Nuttall's woodpecker
(Dryobates nuttallii) BCC, MBTA
California Scrub Jay
(Aphelocoma californica) MBTA
Red-tailed hawk
(Buteo jamaicensis) MBTA
Cedar Waxwing
(Bombycilla cedrorum) MBTA
Ruby-crowned kinglet
(Regulus calendula) MBTA

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Table 2. Plant Species Observed in the Project Area
Common Raven
(Corvus corax) MBTA
Say's phoebe
(Sayornis saya) MBTA
Eurasian Collared Dove
(Streptopelia decaocto) MBTA
Turkey vulture
(Cathartes aura) MBTA
European Starling
(Sturnus vulgaris) None
White-crowned sparrow
(Zonotrichia leucophrys) MBTA
House Finch
(Haemorhous mexicanus) MBTA
Yellow-rumped warbler
(Setophaga coronata) MBTA
Killdeer
(Charadrius vociferus) MBTA
Lesser goldfinch
(Spinus psaltria) MBTA
Common / Scientific Name
Listing Status

Common/ Scientific Name
Listing Status
Annual Bluegrass
(Poa annua) None
Mexican sprangletop
(Leptochloa fusca ssp. uninervia) None
Canadian Horseweed
(Erigeron canadensis) None
European olive
(Olea europaea) None
Cheeseweed
(Malva parviflora) None
Pigweed
(Amaranthus sp.) None
Chickweed
(Stellaria media) None
Prickly lettuce
(Lactuca serriola) None
Chinese Elm
(Ulmus parvifolia) None
Redstem filaree
(Erodium cicutarium) None
Chinese Pistache
(Pistacia chinensis) None
Ripgut brome
(Bromus diandrus) None
Common Knotweed (Polygonum
arenastrum) None
Russian thistle
(Salsola tragus) None
Fan Palms
(Washingtonia) None
Saltgrass
(Distichlis spicata) None
Fern Grass
(Catapodium rigidum) None
Silverleaf nightshade
(Solanum elaeagnifolium) None
Foxtail grass
(Alopecurus) None
Slender Russian thistle
(Salsola collina) None
Goosefoot
(Chenopodium album) None
Common sowthistle
(Sonchus oleraceus) None
Grapes
(Vitis californica) None
Stinging nettle
(Urtica dioica) None
Iris
(Iris species) None
Western sycamore
(Platanus racemosa) None
Jerusalem thorn
(Parkinsonia aculeata) None
Valley Oak
(Quercus lobata) None

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5. Special-Status Species
Special-status plants and animals that have a reasonable possibility to occur in the Project area based on habitat suitability and requirements, elevation and geographic range, soils, topography, surrounding land uses, and proximity of known occurrences in the CNDDB, IPaC, and CNPS databases to the Project area are listed in Table s 2 & 3. The likelihood of the occurrence of special -status species was assessed using information from the various listed sources in Section 3 .1 Literature Review and Habitat Assessment. Narratives are provided for species with land use planning and regulatory implications.

Results from the data records search identified 46 special-status species: 22 wildlife and 33 plant species. However, an analysis of recent occurrences, habitat suitability , and proximity within 5 miles of the Project site indicated 6 special-status species with low potential for occurrence and one special status wildlife species that was present during the site survey . Special-status species for which there are no regulatory implications (i.e., lack of suitable habitat or no record of historical occurrences within 5 miles) are excluded from further analysis.

S
pecies with Low Potential for Occurrence:
1) California gull (Larus californicus)
2) Crotch’s bumblebee (Bombus crotchii)
3) Oak titmouse (Baeolophus inornatus)
4) San Joaquin kit fox (Vulpes macrotis mutica)
5) Swainson’s hawk (Buteo swainsoni)
6) Western pond turtle (Emys marmorata)
7) Western yellow-billed cuckoo (Coccyzus americanus occidentalis) S
pecies Present during the Site Survey:
1) Nuttall’s woodpecker (Picoides nuttallii)
Spe
cial-status species and sensitive habitats include plant and wildlife taxa, or other unique biological features afforded special protection by local land use policies and/or state and federal regulations.

Special-status plant and wildlife species are those listed as rare, threatened, or endangered under the state or federal Endangered Species Acts. Vegetation communities may warrant special status if they are of limited distribution, have high wildlife value, or are particularly vulnerable to disturbance. Listed and special-status species are defined as:
- Listed or proposed for listing under the state or Federal Endangered Species acts.

Jimsonweed
(Datura stramonium) None
Walnut
(Juglans sp.) None
Lesser swinecress
(Lepidium didymum) None
Western redbud
(Cercis occidentalis) None
Mexican feathergrass
(Nassella tenuissima) None

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- Protected under other regulations (e.g., Migratory Bird Treaty Act). - California Department of Fish & Wildlife (CDFW) Species of Special Concern. - Listed as species of concern by CNPS or USFWS; and
- Receive consideration during environmental review under CEQA.

Below are listed all species from the Section 3.1 search results, including common and non-listed species. The analysis and following determination are based on Habitat Assessment results and the most recent occurrence and proximity to the Project site (Tables 1 & 2). • Present: Species known to occur on the site, based on CNDDB records, and/or were observed on the site during the field survey.
• High: Species known to occur on or near the site (based on CNDDB record within 5 miles), and/or there is suitable habitat on the site.
• Low: Species known to occur on or near the site (based on CNDDB record within 5 miles), but there is no suitable habitat onsite. Or potential habitat occurs onsite, but the species is not known to occur within 5 miles.
• None: The species is not known to occur within 5 miles of the site, and there is no suitable habitat on the site. OR—The Species was surveyed during the appropriate season with negative results.

Table 3. Potentially Occurring Listed Wildlife Species
Common/ Scientific
Name
Listing
Status
Fed/State/
Other
Habitat Requirements Potential for
Occurrence
Birds
Belding’s savannah
sparrow
(Passerculus
sandwichensis beldingi)
-/SE/BCC
MBTA
Inhabits coastal salt marshes,
from Santa Barbara south
through San Diego County. Nests
in Salicornia on and about
margins of tidal flats.

None: The species is not
known to occur within 5
miles of the site, and
there is no suitable
habitat on the site
Bullock’s oriole
(Icterus bullockii)
-/-/BCC
MBTA
Generally arid west, riparian or
streamside, woodlands in
cottonwood trees and other
hardwoods where they forage in
the outer branches.

None: The species is not
known to occur within 5
miles of the site, and
there is no suitable
habitat on the site
Burrowing owl
(Athene cunicularia)
-
/CCE/SSC
Subterranean nesters depend
upon burrowing mammals, most
notably the California ground
squirrel.

None: The species is not
known to occur within 5
miles of the site, and
there is no suitable
habitat on the site

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Common/ Scientific
Name
Listing
Status
Fed/State/
Other
Habitat Requirements Potential for
Occurrence
California gull
(Larus californicus)
BCC,
MBTA
Breeds in colonies on islands and
levees in lakes and rivers. Often
found in pastures, scrublands,
and garbage dumps. Will forage
miles from the colony, eating
everything they can find from
mayflies to garbage.

Low: Species known to
occur on or near the site
(based on CNDDB
record within 5 miles),
but there is no suitable
habitat onsite. The
species has the
potential to occur as a
transient forager.

Lawrence’s goldfinch
(Carduelis lawrencei)
BCC,
MBTA
Oak-pine woods, chaparral.

Breeds locally in a variety of
habitats including streamside
trees, oak woodland, open pine
woods, pinyon-juniper woods,
chaparral
None: The species is not
known to occur within 5
miles of the site, and
there is no suitable
habitat on the site
Marbled godwit
(Limosa fedoa)
BCC,
MBTA
Shortgrass prairies near
wetlands.

None: The species is not
known to occur within 5
miles of the site, and
there is no suitable
habitat on the site
Northern harrier
(Circus hudsonius)
BCC,
MBTA
Prefers open habitats with large
tracts of contiguous grassland
and wetlands for nesting and
foraging.

None: Species is not
known to occur within 5
miles of the site and
there is no suitable
habitat on the site.

Nuttall’s woodpecker
(Dryobates nuttallii) MBTA
Wooded canyons and foothills,
river woods. In much of range
almost always around oaks,
especially where oaks meet
other trees along rivers, also in
pine-oak woods in foothills.

Present: The species
was present on the site
during the field survey.

Potential nest cavities
exist within the oak
trees surrounding the
project site.

Oak titmouse
(Baeolophus inornatus)
BCC,
MBTA
Woodland dominated by oaks,
riparian habitats and coast live
oak trees within, nests in tree
cavities
Low: Potential nest
cavities exist within the
valley oak trees
surrounding the project
site.

Santa Barbara Song
sparrow
(Melospiza melodia
graminea)
BCC,
MBTA
Prefers riparian, fresh or saline
emergent wetland, and wet
meadow habitats.

None: Species is not
known to occur within 5
miles of the site and
there is no suitable
habitat on the site.

Page 16 of 59 ends

Common/ Scientific
Name
Listing
Status
Fed/State/
Other
Habitat Requirements Potential for
Occurrence
Swainson's hawk
(Buteo swainsoni) -/CT/-
Nests in isolated trees or riparian
woodlands adjacent to suitable
foraging habitat (agricultural
fields, grasslands, etc.).

Low: The species is not
known to occur within 5
miles of the site, and
there is limited potential
nesting habitat onsite in
the form of large valley
oak trees.

Tricolored blackbird
(Agelaius tricolor) -/CT/SSC
Found in areas near water, such
as marshes, grasslands, and
wetlands. They require some sort
of substrate nearby to build
nests.

None: Species is not
known to occur within 5
miles of the site and
there is no suitable
habitat on the site.

Western yellow-billed
cuckoo
(Coccyzus americanus
occidentalis)
FT/CE/
MBTA
Woodlands near streams or
lakes, abandoned farmland, old
fruit orchards, successional
shrubland, and dense thickets.

Low: Species known to
occur on or near the site
(based on CNDDB
record within 5 miles),
but there is limited
fragmented suitable
woodland habitat
onsite.

Amphibians
California tiger
salamander
(Ambystoma californiense)

FT/ST/-
Grasslands, oak savannah
riparian woodlands and lower
elevations of coniferous forests,
ditches, vernal pools, and
wetlands.

None: There is no
suitable habitat for this
species onsite. Possibly
Extirpated (CNDDB).

Western spadefoot
(Spea hammondii) FPT/-/SSC
Rivers with sandy banks, willows,
cottonwoods, and sycamores;
loose, gravelly areas of streams
in drier parts of range.

None: There is no
suitable habitat for this
species onsite. Possibly
Extirpated (CNDDB).

Invertebrates
Crotch’s bumblebee
(Bombus crotchii)  -/CCE/-
Interior dunes, grasslands, and
shrublands, with food sources:
milkweeds, dusty maidens,
lupines, clovers, phacelias, sages,
clarkias, poppies, and wild
buckwheat.

Low: Species known to
occur on or near the site
(based on CNDDB
record within 5 miles),
but there is no suitable
nectar native wildflower
field habitat onsite.

Monarch butterfly
(Danaus plexippus) FC/-/-
Winter roost sites extend along
the coast from northern
Mendocino to Baja California,
Mexico. Roosts located in wind-
protected tree groves
(eucalyptus, Monterey pine,
None: No roosting,
foraging (nectar-
flowers) or reproductive
host plant habitat
(Milkweed, Asclepias

Page 17 of 59 ends

Common/ Scientific
Name
Listing
Status
Fed/State/
Other
Habitat Requirements Potential for
Occurrence
cypress), with nectar and water
sources nearby.
sp.) is present in the
Project Area.

Valley elderberry longhorn
beetle
(Desmocerus californicus
dimorphus)
-/FT/-
Occurs only in the Central Valley
of California, in association with
blue elderberry (Sambucus
mexicana), in riparian scrub
None: There is no
suitable habitat for this
species onsite. Possibly
Extirpated (CNDDB).

Vernal pool fairy shrimp
(Branchinecta lynchi) -/FT/-
Endemic to the grasslands of the
Central Valley, Central Coast
mountains, and South Coast
mountains, in valley foothills
grasslands, vernal pools, and
wetlands.

None: There is no
suitable habitat for this
species onsite. Possibly
Extirpated (CNDDB).

Vernal pool tadpole
shrimp
(Lepidurus packardi)
-/FE/-
Vernal pools, (hardpan, duripan,
or claypan), grassland. Pools
commonly found in grass-
bottomed or mud-bottomed
swales.

None: There is no
suitable habitat for this
species onsite. Possibly
Extirpated (CNDDB).

Mammals
Buena Vista Lake Ornate
Shrew
(Sorex ornatus relictus)
-/FE/-
Preferred habitat is riparian, but
it can also be found in other
areas, including wetlands,
forests, scrublands, drier
grassland and desert scrub.

None: There is no
suitable habitat for this
species onsite. Possibly
Extirpated (CNDDB).

San Joaquin kit fox
(Vulpes macrotis mutica) FE/SE/-
Arid flat grasslands, scrublands,
and alkali meadows with short
vegetation.

Low: Species known to
occur on or near the site
(based on CNDDB
record within 5 miles),
but there is no suitable
habitat onsite.

Tipton kangaroo rat
(Dipodomys nitratoides
nitratoides)

FE/SE/-
Arid and alkaline plains under
shrub and grass vegetation,
coastal scrub, open stages of
chaparral, and desert scrub
habitats, and in conifer
woodlands.

None: There is no
suitable habitat for this
species onsite. Possibly
Extirpated (CNDDB).

Reptiles
Blunt-nosed leopard lizard
(Gambelia sila) FE/SE
Semi-arid grasslands, alkali flats,
and washes, utilize shrubs and
small mammal burrows.

None: Species is not
known to occur within 5
miles of the site and
there is no suitable
habitat on the site.

Page 18 of 59 ends

Common/ Scientific
Name
Listing
Status
Fed/State/
Other
Habitat Requirements Potential for
Occurrence
Western pond turtle
(Actinemys marmorata) FPT/-/SSC
A thoroughly aquatic turtle of
ponds, marshes, rivers, streams,
and irrigation ditches, usually
with aquatic vegetation. Found
elevations below 6,000 feet.

Needs basking sites and suitable
upland habitat such as sandy
banks or grassy open field within

0.5 kilometers from water for
egg-laying.

Low: Species known to
occur on or near the site
(based on CNDDB
record within 5 miles),
but there is no suitable
pond habitat within the
Project area.
*Listing Status Notes:

Federal: State:

FE Federally listed Endangered CE State-listed Endangered FT Federally listed Threatened CT State-listed Threatened FCE Federal Candidate Endangered species CCE State Candidate Endangered species FCT Federal Candidate Threatened species CCT State Candidate Threatened species FPT Federal Proposed Threatened CR State Rare Species
FWL USFWS Watch list CA State Special Animal
BCC USFWS Bird of Conservation Concern FP CDFW Fully Protected Species BGEAC Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act SSC CDFW Species of Special Concern MBTA Migratory Bird Treaty Act CWL CDFW Watch List
Table 4. Regionally Occurring Special-Status Plant Species Common/ Scientific
Name
Listing Status
Fed/CA/CNPS/
Bloom Period
Habitat Description
Habitat
Present/
Absent
Rationale
Alkali-sink goldfields
(Lasthenia chrysantha)
-/-/1B.1
Feb-May
Vernal pools, alkaline
soils. Found at elevations
between 0 - 655 feet.

Absent
There is no suitable
habitat for this
species on site.

Bitterscale
(Atriplex depressa)
1B.2/
Apr-Oct
Chenopod scrub, alkaline
soils/<1100 ft elevation Absent
There is no suitable
habitat for this
species on site.

California alkali grass
(Puccinellia simplex)
1B.2/
Mar-May
Chenopod scrub,
meadows, alkaline
flats/<2800 ft elevation
Absent
There is no suitable
habitat for this
species on site.

California jewelflower
(Caulanthus californicus)
FE/CE/1B.1/
Feb-May
Chenopod scrub, pinyon-
juniper woodland, valley
and foothill grassland
Absent
There is no suitable
habitat for this
species on site.

Page 19 of 59 ends

Common/ Scientific
Name
Listing Status
Fed/CA/CNPS/
Bloom Period
Habitat Description
Habitat
Present/
Absent
Rationale
California satintail
(Imperata brevifolia)
2B.1/
Sep-May
Chaparral, Coastal scrub,
Mojavean desert scrub,
meadows and seeps
(often alkali), riparian
scrub
Absent
There is no suitable
habitat for this
species on site.

Earlimart orache
(Atriplex cordulata var.
erecticaulis)
-/-1B.2
Aug-Nov
Valley and foothill
grassland. Found at
elevations below
330 feet elevation
Absent
There is no suitable
habitat for this
species on site.

Ewan’s larkspur
(Delphinium hansenii
ssp. Ewanianum)
-/-4.2
Mar-May
Cismontane woodland
Valley and foothill
grassland/195 - 1970 ft
elevation
Absent
There is no suitable
habitat for this
species on site.

Heartscale
(Atriplex cordulata var.
cordulata)

1B.2/
Apr-Oct
Chenopod scrub, saline
or alkaline soils/ <230 ft
elevation
Absent
There is no suitable
habitat for this
species on site.

Hoover’s spurge
(Euphorbia hooveri)
1B.2/
June-Oct
Vernal pools/<800 ft
elevaiton Absent
There is no suitable
habitat for this
species on site.

Lesser saltscale
(Atriplex minuscula)
1B.1/
May-Oct
Chenopod scrub, alkaline
playa/<330 ft elevation Absent
There is no suitable
habitat for this
species on site.

Recurved larkspur
(Delphinium
recurvatum)
1B.2/
Mar-June
Cismontane woodland,
chenopod scrub, desert
scrub, alkaline
soils/100- 1,900 ft
elevation
Absent
There is no suitable
habitat for this
species on site.

Sanford’s arrowhead
(Sagittaria sanfordii)
-/-/1B.2
May-Nov
Marshes, ponds, ditches
and swamps (freshwater)
at elevations between 0 -
2135 feet
Absent
There is no suitable
habitat for this
species on site.

San Joaquin adobe
sunburst
(Pseudobahia peirsonii)
FT/CE/1B.1
Feb-Apr
An annual herb found in
cismontane woodland,
valley and foothill
grassland. Adobe or clay
microhabitat. Found at
elevations between 295
and 2,625 feet.

Absent
There is no suitable
habitat for this
species on site.

San Joaquin Orcutt grass
(Orcuttia inaequalis)
FT/CE/1B.1
Apr-Sep Vernal pools Absent
There is no suitable
habitat for this
species on site.

Page 20 of 59 ends

Common/ Scientific
Name
Listing Status
Fed/CA/CNPS/
Bloom Period
Habitat Description
Habitat
Present/
Absent
Rationale
Spiny- sepaled button
celery
(Eryngium
spinosepalum)
FT/1B.2/
Apr-June
Valley and foothill
grassland, vernal
pools/330-4,000 ft
elevation
Absent
There is no suitable
habitat for this
species on site.

Subtle orache
(Atriplex subtilis)
-/-/1B.2
May-Oct
Valley and foothill
grassland, often
on alkaline and
clay/<220 ft elevation.

Absent
There is no suitable
habitat for this
species on site.

Vernal barley poaceae
(Hordium intercedens)
-/-/3.2
May-Jun
Coastal dunes, Coastal
scrub, Valley and foothill
grassland (depressions,
saline flats), Vernal
pools/15-3,280 ft
elevation.

Absent
There is no suitable
habitat for this
species on site.

Vernal pool smallscale
(Atriplex persistens)
1B.2/
June-Oct
alkaline vernal
pools/<380 ft elevation Absent
There is no suitable
habitat for this
species on site.

Watson’s amaranth
(Amaranthus watsonii)
-/-/4.3/
Apr-Sept
Mojavean desert scrub
Sonoran desert scrub/65
- 5580 ft elevation.

Absent
There is no suitable
habitat for this
species on site.

Winter’s sunflower
(Helianthus winteri)
1B.2/
Jan-Dec
Openings in cismontane
woodland, valley and
foothill grassland/360-
7500 ft elevation
Absent
There is no suitable
habitat for this
species on site.

*Listing Status Notes:

Federal: FE Federally listed Endangered CRPR: California Native Plant Society Rare Plant Rank FT Federally listed Threatened 1A Considered extirpated in CA FC Federal Candidate Species 1B Rare, threatened, or endangered in CA and elsewhere 2 Rare, threatened, or endangered in CA but common elsewhere State: CE State Listed Endangered 4 Limited distribution (Watch-list) CT State-listed Threatened CRPR Extensions
CC State Candidate Species 0.1 Seriously endangered in California CR State Rare Species 0.2 Fairly endangered in California

0.3 Not very endangered in California

Page 21 of 59 ends

Figure 4. Map of CNDDB Occurrences

This map shows the closest and most recent special-status species locations from the California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB).

Page 22 of 59 ends

5.1 Special-Status Wildlife Species Descriptions
This section describes identifiable physical characteristics and habitat requirements for special-status species identified in the Literature Review that may have potential to occur in the vicinity of the Project area. These species were considered for further analysis.

Bird Species

California gull (Larus californicus)
California gulls are listed as USFWS Birds of Conservation Concern. They breed in colonies on islands and levees in lakes and rivers. They are often found in pastures, scrublands, and garbage dumps while foraging miles from the colony, eating everything from mayflies to garbage. There is no suitable habitat for California gull in the vicinity of the project area.

Nuttall’s Woodpecker (Dryobates nuttallii)
Nuttall’s woodpecker is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) only in particular Bird Conservation Regions in the continental USA. They are a non -migratory species with a geographic range confined to northern California extending south towards the northwest region of Baja California, Mexico. Habitat includes wooded canyons, foothills, and river woods. There are almost always oaks in much of its range , especially where oaks meet other trees along rivers . This species n ests in cavities of live or dead trees, usually cottonwood, willow, or sycamore, near oak woodlands. Sometimes nesting in utility poles or fence posts. Cavities are usually 3-35 feet above ground, sometimes up to 60 feet or higher. Males do most of the excavating, creating a new cavity every year.

Nuttall's woodpecker has black wings and tail feathers with white barring. On the ventral surface, the color is white, with black spots and bars . It has a black forehead with white streaks on the sides and an unbarred black region at the top of the back. Adult males have a distinguishable red crown which females do not. However, this physical feature is present in the juveniles of both sexes. They have zygodactyl feet and stiff tail feathers, which allow them to maintain a vertical position on trees, typical of woodpeckers.

This species was present during the s ite visit. Nesting habitat is present within the California life oak trees around the perimeter of the Project site and surrounding area. There was no CNDDB is record found for this species.

Oak Titmouse (Baeolophus inornatus)
Oak titmouse is listed as a USFWS Bird of Conservation Concern and a species under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. This relatively common species is year-round resident throughout much of California including most of the coastal slope, Central Valley and we stern Sierra Nevada foothills. Its primary habitat is woodland dominated by oaks. Local populations have adapted to woodlands of pines or junipers in some areas. The oak titmouse nests in tree cavities, usually natural cavities or those excavated by woodpeckers, though they may partially excavate their own. Seeds and arboreal invertebrates make up the birds’ diet.

Page 23 of 59 ends

Oak titmouse was not observed during the Habitat Assessment. Suitable habitat was observed in the oak woodland around the Project site. However, no CNDDB record was found within 5 miles of the Project site for this species.

S
wainson’s Hawk (Buteo swainsoni)
Swainson’s hawk is listed as threatened at the state level and is a listed species under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. However, due to its common distribution throughout the country, it is not listed at the Federal level. This species favors open habitats for foraging, such as agricultural fields, pastures, and row crops. They nest in scattered stands of eucalyptus, willow, oak, cottonwood, and conifers. Swainson’s hawk will occasionally nest on a power pole or transmission tower. The location of Swainson’s hawk nests is typically on the tallest point in or near an open field, giving this species a full view of its foraging area while nesting.

Due to their late return to California for the breeding season, Swainson’s hawk often uses the same nests for serval breeding seasons and even generations. If a nest is constructed, it is usually built with loose bundles of sticks and debris quickly stacked together. They are also territorial of their nests and will dive bomb any other species attempting to use their nest. Red-tailed hawks and great horned owls, which overlap in habitat, are species known to use Swainson’s hawk nests. The incubation period for Swainson’s hawk is approximately 35 days, and the nesting period is 17 to 22 days. The breeding season for this species begins in March and ends in September.

Swainson’s hawk was not observed during the Habitat Assessment. Although there is suitable habitat for this species, no CNDDB record of it was found within 5 miles of the project site.

W
estern yellow-billed cuckoo (Coccyzus americanus occidentalis) Yellow-billed cuckoos have uniform grayish-brown plumage on their head and back, and dull white underparts. Their tails are long with two rows of four to six large white circles on the underside. The bill of yellow-billed cuckoos is short to medium in length and curved downward with a black upper mandible and a yellow or orange lower mandible. Yellow -billed cuckoos have zygodactylous feet, meaning that of the four toes, the middle two point forward and the outer two point backward.

Yellow-billed cuckoos prefer open woodlands with clearings and a dense shrub layer. They are often found in woodlands near streams, rivers or lakes. In North America, their preferred habitats include abandoned farmland, old fruit orchards, successional shrubland and dense thickets. In winter, yellow - billed cuckoos can be found in tropical habitats with similar structure, such as scrub forest and mangroves.

There were no signs of yellow-billed cuckoos at the time of the Habitat Assessment. There is no suitable habitat for this species within the vicinity of the Project Site. A search of CNDDB records indicate the nearest and most recent occurrence of yellow -billed cuckoos was mapped generally within the C ity of Visalia. A nest with three eggs was photographed in this vicinity in July 1919. Exact collection location unknown. The occurrence was mapped generally to a given locality. This is a historical occurrence, agriculture and development have eliminated habitat in this area. Due to urbanization of the surrounding area, lack of suitable habitat, and distance of other known occurrences from the site, occurrence of yellow-billed cuckoos within the vicinity of the proposed Project is unlikely to adversely affect populations of this species.

Page 24 of 59 ends

Invertebrates Species

Crotch bumble bee (Bombus crotchii)
The Crotch bumblebee (CRBB) can be distinguished by its square -shaped face and rounded ankle on the midleg. Queens and workers (females) have a black head and face and display black color on their mid and bottom thorax and between their wing bases. The appearance of drones (males) varies slightly from queens and workers; drones display yellow hair on their faces, and a black stripe mid thorax. The front of the drone abdomen should have a yellow coloring, and the rest of their abdomen is expected to be predominantly black and red. Workers are active from April to August and queen bees are active for only two months from March until May.

Crotch’s bumblebee inhabits grasslands and shrublands and requires a hotter and drier environment than other bumblebee species. It is characterized as a short-tongued species and therefore prefers certain plant species as a food source including milkweeds, dusty maidens, lupines, medics, phacelias, sages, clarkias, poppies, and wild buckwheat.

There were no signs of Crotchs’ bumble bee during the Habitat Assessment. There is no suitable habitat for this species within the vicinity of the Project Site. A search of CNDDB records indicate the nearest and most recent occurrence of Crotch's mapped within the City of Visalia. One female queen was collected on 1 May 1954, and collections were also made in this vicinity on 29 J uly 1961. Due to agriculture and urbanization of the surrounding area, lack of suitable habitat, and distance of other known occurrences from the site, occurrence of Crotchs’ bumble bee within the vicinity of the project site, the proposed Project is unlikely to adversely affect populations of this species.

Mammal Species

San Joaquin Kit Fox (Vulpes macrotis mutica)
The San Joaquin kit fox is listed as Threatened at the Federal level and Endangered at the State level.

They are petite, light -colored canids, approximately 50 centimeters (20 inches) in length, with bushy, black-tipped tails, large ears, and pointed snouts.

San Joaquin kit fox is a desert-adapted species which occurs mainly in arid, flat grasslands, scrublands, and alkali meadows where the vegetation structure is relatively short. This species uses dens year -round and needs loose-textured soils suitable for burrowing. They primarily prey on kangaroo rats and other small rodents, as well as large insects and occasionally rabbits. A typical kit fox den is anywhere from four to 10 inches (25 cm) in diameter, and is taller than it is wide, often with a keyhole sha pe. Dens usually have dirt berms and matted vegetation adjacent to the entrances, and tracks and prey remains will normally be detected nearby. They may also utilize man -made structures such as pipes and culverts as dens.

There were no signs of San Joaquin kit fox at the time of the Habitat Assessment survey. Suitable habitat for this species is poor within the vicinity of the Project Site. A search of CNDDB records indicates the nearest and most recent occurrence of kit fox is approximately one mile away east from the Project site between 1972 and 1975. The occurrence was a roadkill about 3 miles southeast of Visalia, just west of the intersection of Oakdale (Caldwell) Ave and Cameron Creek. Due to agriculture and urbanization of the surrounding area, lack of suitable habitat, a lack of larger burrows that could represent denning

Page 25 of 59 ends

habitat observed onsite and the distance of other known occurrences from the site, the occurrence of San Joaquin kit fox within the vicinity of the proposed Project is unlikely. The proposed project is has a low potential to adversely impact populations of this species.

Reptile Species

Western Pond Turtle (Actinemys marmorata)
The western pond turtle is Proposed Threatened on the Federal level and is listed as a Species of Special Concern on the State level.  It is found throughout California west of the Pacific Crest, and along the Mojave River watershed, ranging from sea level to 4,500 feet (1,372 meters).  The western pond turtle’s diet consists of both plant material and invertebrates, any life forms found near water sources.  Mating typically occurs between April and May, but this species has been observed relocating to find new food sources or breeding locations between March and June.  This species requires basking sites and suitable upland habitat for egg-laying.

The habitat on the Project site is not suitable for western pond turtles as there are no ponds, basins, canals, or ditches present on the Project footprint. The nearest potential habitat is the Tulare irrigation Canal that runs along the southern border of the project boundary and there are no suitable sites for basking and other components of the species habitat requirements. The canal was dry at the time of the site visit. There were no signs of western pond turtles during the Habitat Assessment. There is no suitable habitat for this species within the vicinity of the Project Site. A search of CNDDB records indicate the nearest and most recent occurrence of western pond turtle was mapped generally within the city of Visalia. An observation was made in 1879. This is a historical occurrence, agriculture and development have eliminated habitat in this area. Due to agriculture and urbanization of the surrounding area, lack of suitable habitat, and distance of other known occurrences from the site, occurrence of western pond turtle within the vicinity of the project site, the proposed Project is unlikely to adversely affect populations of this species.

5.2 Special-Status Plant Species
All identified special-status plant species are unlikely to occur within the Project impact area because no natural vegetation communities are present, and the Project area lacks any native seed bank due to agriculture, urban development, and landscaping.

6. Findings
From the information gathered in the data records search and analysis of the habitat on site, the following eight special-status species were found to have low potential for occurrence within the vicinity of the Project impact area and were considered for further analysis. These special-status species include:
1 insect- Crotch’s bumblebee; 1 mammal - San Joaquin kit fox; 1 reptile - western pond turtle; and 5 Bird species- California gull, oak titmouse, Nuttall’s woodpecker, yellow-billed cuckoo, and Swainson’s hawk.

The Habitat Assessment determined there is no suitable habitat for Crotch’s bumblebee and western pond turtle or any listed plant species identified in the Literature Review , largely due to urbanization , agricultural practices, and the loss of native seed banks.

Page 26 of 59 ends

One species was present during the survey, Nuttall’s woodpecker (Picoides nuttallii), which is a USFWS Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC). There is no suitable nesting habitat within the project boundary, except for the valley oak trees around the perimeter, which are not required to be removed for the development of the Project. Several cavities were observed in the surrounding oak trees indicating Nuttall’s woodpecker may nest in t hese trees during the nesting season (February 15 – September 15).

This species constructs new cavities each year, so they are not likely to occupy these cavities outside the nesting season. No raptor nests were observed in the oak trees or on powerline poles. Although there are no CNDDB records of Swainson's hawk within 5 miles of the Project site, there is low-quality nesting and foraging habitat for Swainson's hawk and other nesting bird species in the surrounding area. Habitat is marginal due to current development in the immediate vicinity of the proposed Project site.

Due to habitat quality and proximity of historical occurrences, the San Joaquin kit fox has potential to disperse through the area. Although the most recent record of this species is from 2003, numerous historical records from the 1970s report this species in the area. There were no signs of San Joaquin kit fox occupancy during the habitat assessment, indicating low potential for occurrence.

No small mammal burrows were observed within the proposed Project site; however, a few burrows were present within the banks of the Tulare Irrigation Canal along the southern boundary and ruderal areas on the eastern boundary of the property. This irrigation canal is identified as a riverine feature in the National Wetland Inventory (NWI). The irrigation canal has a bare-ground bottom substrate and would not provide suitable habitat for any of the special -status aquatic species identified in the Literature Review.

Project Impacts
The proposed Project will not likely adversely impact native plant or wildlife species . Project activities would not result in the loss of nesting bird habitat because there is no suitable nesting habitat within the Project site, except for the Valley oak trees around the perimeter, which are not required to be removed for the project's development.

Nuttall’s woodpecker is a protected species listed under the USFWS BCC and MBTA, and present near the Project Site. This species, its nesting cavities, eggs, and young are protected under the MBTA. Active woodpecker nesting cavity should not be disturbed d uring project activities. Where feasible, avoidance and minimization measures should be employed. If minimization measures cannot be utilized, then avoidance measures should be implemented. If the take of a Nuttall’s woodpecker, its nesting cavity, egg, or young cannot be avoided, then a consultation with USFWS, application for a permit from USFWS or both may be needed to continue with the proposed project.

7. Conclusion
Based on an analysis of current habitat conditions in and near the Project area, the proposed development of the property is not likely to have any permanent impacts on the special-status species or associated habitats identified in this report. Through the implementation of appropriate avoidance and minimization measures, the proposed Project will not impact the Valley Oak woodland habitat surrounding the property and the associated nesting birds and special-status species that may occur.

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8. Recommendations
During the assessment, one special -status wildlife species , Nuttall’s woodpecker (Picoides nuttallii), was observed in the Project area. The species is not threatened or endangered on the State or federal level but is listed as a USFWS Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) because the population is declining.

Suitable habitat features on the project site included Valley Oak Woodland Habitat and other potential nesting bird habitats surrounding the site, including ornamental trees and shrubs, and utility poles.

In order to avoid impacts to nesting migratory birds and raptors, construction will commence outside the nesting season, prior to February 15. Soar Environmental Consulting, Inc. recommends that if any special status species are observed during construction activities, work be stopped immediately , and CDFW is contacted.

Nesting Bird and Raptor Avoidance and Minimization Measures (AMM) To the extent practicable, construction shall be scheduled to avoid the nesting season, which extends from February through September . If it is not possible to initiate construction between September and February, a pre-construction survey for nesting birds shall be conducted by a qualified biologist to ensure that no active nests will be disturbed during the implementation of the Project. A pre-construction survey shall be conducted no more than 14 days prior to the initiation of construction activities. During this survey, the qualified biologist shall inspect all potential nest substrates in and immediately adjacent to the impact areas. If an active nest is found close enough to the construction area to be disturbed by these activities, the qualified biologist shall determine the extent of a construction-free buffer to be established around the nest. If work cannot proceed without disturbing the nesting birds, work may need to be halted or redirected to other areas until nesting and fledging are completed or the nest has otherwise failed for non-construction related reasons.

Avoidance and minimization measures for woodpecker damage:
• If it doesn’t cause structural damage, remove or fill in ledges, cracks , and crevices near the site of the inactive woodpecker holes with non-toxic substances. • Cover inactive woodpecker holes with shiny aluminum flashing. Do not cover an existing nest. • Install statuette of their predators such as eagles or owls • Trees with woodpecker damage will be observed for woodpecker activity before each tree is removed.

Avoidance measures for active woodpecker cavity:
• No project activities in or near active woodpecker cavities during nesting season from February 15 to September 15.
• Work in other areas with no wildlife issues during nesting season. • Observe from a distance periodically to check woodpecker activity near the cavity. • Treat every cavity as if it is an active nest. Only a qualified biologist should be making the determination whether the cavity is inactive and if the area used by the woodpecker, is a nest.

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9. Study Limitations
This Report has been prepared in accordance with generally accepted environmental methodologies and contains all the limitations inherent in these methodologies. The Report documents site conditions observed during field reconnaissance and do not apply to future conditions. No other warranties, expressed or implied, are made as to the professional services provided under the terms of our contract and included in this Report.

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Literature Cited
A
udubon Guide to North American Birds. (2024). https://www.audubon.org B
irdLife International (2025) Species factsheet: Nuttall's Woodpecker Dryobates nuttallii. Downloaded from https://datazone.birdlife.org/species/factsheet/nuttalls-woodpecker-dryobates-nuttallii on 20/01/2025.

B
lock, William M. (April 1991). "Foraging ecology of Nuttall's Woodpecker". The Auk. 108 (2): 303–317.

C
alflora. (2024). Taxon Report. Retrieved from https://www.calflora.org C
alifornia Native Plant Society. (2024). Rare Plant Inventory. https://rareplants.cnps.org C
enter for Biological Diversity. (2024). Retrieved from https://www.biologicaldiversity.org C
ity of Visalia, Valley Oak Tree Ordinance. 2009. Retrieved from https://www.visalia.city/depts/parks_n_recreation/parks_n_urban_forestry/valley_oak_ordinance_. asp
e
Bird Database, Cornell University Lab of Ornithology. (2024). Retrieved from https://ebird.org J
enkins, J. M. (April 1979). "Foraging behavior of male and female Nuttall Woodpeckers Picoides nuttallii". The Auk (96): 418–420.

Lo
wther, Peter E. (2000). Nuttall's Woodpecker. Birds of North America Life Histories for the 21st Century No. 555. American Ornithologists' Union.

M
iller, A.H.; C. Bock (May–June 1972). "Natural History of Nuttall Woodpecker at Hastings Reservation" (PDF). The Condor. 74 (3): 284–294. JSTOR 1366590.

Na
tional Audubon Society. (2024). Audubon. https://www.audubon.org St
ephen Ward McCabe. University of California, Berkeley. The Jepson Herbarium. Vascular Plants of California. Thiede 2003 in Eggli (ed.) Illus Handbook Succulent Pls 6 (Crassulaceae):85--103. Springer. https://ucjeps.berkeley.edu/eflora/eflora
Ho
lland, R. F. 1986. Preliminary descriptions of the terrestrial natural communities of California.

Nongame Heritage Program report. California Department of Fish and Game (Sacramento) U
.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. (2024). Information for Planning and Consultation. https://ipac.ecosphere.fws.gov
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APPENDIX A:

Project Site Photographs

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Photo 1. View of Tulare Irrigation Canal on the southern boundary of the project area facing east.