Fitzgerald Marine Reserve Biological Assessment: San Mateo County Parks Dept

8/7/2019 Fitzgerald Marine Reserve Biological Assessment: San Mateo County Parks Dept.

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Section 7 Biological Assessment

Fitzgerald Marine ReserveSan Mateo County, California

Prepared For:

Sam Herzberg

San Mateo County Parks Department

455 County Center, 4th Floor

Redwood City, CA 94063

650-363-1823

Prepared By:

Tim DeGraff, PWS

[email protected]

Date:

February 2010


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1.0 INTRODUCTION.....................................................................................................................11.1 Critical Habitat ............................................................................................................21.2 Consultation to Date ...................................................................................................3

2.0 BACKGROUND.......................................................................................................................32.1 Project Location and Site Description.........................................................................32.2 Plant Communities .....................................................................................................3

2.2.1 Methods........................................................................................................32.2.2 Results...............................................................................................................4

2.3 Soils............................................................................................................................42.4 Hydrology ...................................................................................................................5

3.0 DESCRIPTION OF ACTION TO BE CONSIDERED...............................................................53.1 Project Description.........................................................................................................53.2 Project Schedule............................................................................................................5

4.0 DESCRIPTION OF FEDERALLY-LISTED SPECIES AND CRITICAL HABITAT ...................64.1 California Red-legged Frog ........................................................................................64.1.1 Life History and Distribution............................................................................6

4.1.2 Onsite Surveys...............................................................................................74.1.3 Potential for Occurrence.................................................................................7

4.2 San Francisco Garter Snake ......................................................................................84.2.1 Life History and Distribution............................................................................84.2.2 Onsite Surveys...............................................................................................84.2.3 Potential for Occurrence.................................................................................8

5.0 MANNER IN WHICH ACTION MAY AFFECT LISTED SPECIES...........................................95.1 Delineation of Action Area ..........................................................................................95.2 Analysis of Direct Effects............................................................................................9

5.2.1

California Red Legged Frog............................................................................9

5.2.2 San Francisco Garter Snake..........................................................................95.3 Analysis of Indirect Effects .......................................................................................10

5.3.1 California Red Legged Frog..........................................................................105.3.2 San Francisco Garter Snake........................................................................10

5.4 Analysis of Interrelated Effects .................................................................................105.5 Analysis of Interdependent Effects ...........................................................................105.6 Analysis of Cumulative Effects .................................................................................115.7 Mitigation Measures .................................................................................................11

6.0 DETERMINATION OF EFFECT...............................................................................147.0 REFERENCES.........................................................................................................15APPENDIX A - Table of Potential Federal-Listed Species ..........................................................16APPENDIX B - Project Figures......................................................................................................1APPENDIX C Photographs of Study Area..................................................................................2APPENDIX D - Species Observed Within the Study Area ............................................................3


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1.0INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this Biological Assessment is to describe the proposed construction activities(Project) at the Fitzgerald Marine Reserve located in Moss Beach, San Mateo County, California(Study Area) in sufficient detail to determine to what extent the proposed action may affect any ofthe threatened, endangered, candidate, or proposed candidate species listed in Appendix A.

Based upon the impact analysis included herein, mitigation measures are recommended tominimize take of the listed species determined to be affected by the proposed Project. Of themany species with potential to occur in the general region, only two species have the potential tooccur in the Study Area: California Red-legged Frog (Rana draytonii) and San Francisco GarterSnake (Thamnophis sirtalis tetrataenia). This Biological Assessment is prepared in accordancewith legal requirements set forth under Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act (16 U.S.C.1536 (c)).

Table1: Federal-listed species considered in this document

Common Name/Scientific Name/Federal Status Effect Determination

San Mateo thornmint (Acanthomintha duttonii) E None

fountain thistle (Cirsium fontinale var. fontinale) E None

Santa Cruz cypress (Cupressus abramsiana) E None

San Mateo woolly sunflower (Eriophyllum latilobum) E None

Marin dwarf-flax (=western flax) (Hesperolinon congestum) T None

San Francisco lessingia (Lessingia germanorum) E None

white-rayed pentachaeta (Pentachaeta bellidiflora) E None

Hickman's potentilla (=cinquefoil) (Potentilla hickmanii) E None

bay checkerspot butterfly (Euphydryas editha bayensis) T None

black abalone (Haliotes cracherodii) C None

white abalone (Haliotes sorenseni) E None

mission blue butterfly (Icaricia icarioides missionensis) E None

San Bruno elfin butterfly (Incisalia mossii bayensis) E None

Callippe silverspot butterfly (Speyeria callippe callippe) E None

Myrtle's silverspot butterfly (Speyeria zerene myrtleae) E None

Green Sturgeon (Acipenser medirostris) T None

Tidewater Goby (Eucyclogobius newberryi) E None

Coho Salmon - Central CA Coast (Oncorhynchus kisutch) E None

Central California Coastal Steelhead (Oncorhynchus mykiss) T None


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Common Name/Scientific Name/Federal Status Effect Determination

Central Valley Spring-run Chinook Salmon (Oncorhynchustshawytscha) T

None

Winter-run Chinook Salmon, Sacramento River (Oncorhynchustshawytscha) E

None

California Tiger Salamander (Ambystoma californiense) T None

California Red-legged Frog (Rana draytonii) T Yes

San Francisco Garter Snake (Thamnophis sirtalis tetrataenia) E Yes

Marbled Murrelet (Brachyramphus marmoratus) T None

Western Snowy Plover (Charadrius alexandrinus nivosus) T None

California Brown Pelican (Pelecanus occidentalis californicus) E None

California Clapper Rail (Rallus longirostris obsoletus) E None

California Least Tern (Sternula antillarum(=Sterna, =albifrons) browni)E

None

Salt Marsh Harvest Mouse (Reithrodontomys raviventris) E None

Guadalupe Fur Seal (Arctocephalus townsendi) T None

Southern Sea Otter (Enhydra lutris nereis) T None

Steller (=northern) Sea-lion (Eumetopias jubatus) T None

The analysis included herein concludes that the Project may adversely affect the California Red-legged Frog (CRLF) and San Francisco Garter Snake (SFGS). However, the proposed

avoidance, minimization, and mitigation measures proposed by the applicant are sufficient tooffset the proposed action.

Due to the lack of suitable habitat within the Study Area, it was determined that the proposedProject would not adversely San Mateo thornmint, fountain thistle, Santa Cruz cypress, SanMateo woolly sunflower, Marin dwarf-flax (=western flax), white-rayed pentachaeta, baycheckerspot butterfly, black abalone, white abalone, mission blue butterfly, San Bruno elfinbutterfly, Callippe silverspot butterfly, Myrtle's silverspot butterfly, Green Sturgeon, TidewaterGoby, Coho Salmon - Central CA Coast, Central California Coastal Steelhead, Central ValleySpring-run Chinook Salmon, Winter-run Chinook Salmon - Sacramento River, California TigerSalamander, Marbled Murrelet, Western Snowy Plover, California Brown Pelican, CaliforniaClapper Rail, California Least Tern, Salt Marsh Harvest Mouse, Guadalupe Fur Seal, Southern

Sea Otter and Steller (=northern) Sea-lion.

1.1 Critical Habitat

The Study Area is not designated as Critical Habitat or proposed Critical Habitat for any listedspecies.


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1.2 Consultation to Date

On October 8, 2008 Michelle Haven of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS)participated in a conference call regarding the proposed Project and sent recommendedmitigation measures for California Red-legged Frog and San Francisco Garter Snake for theStudy Area. This report includes the majority of those measures, provides information requested

by USFWS and includes additional information necessary for USFWS to issue a BiologicalOpinion.

2.0 BACKGROUND

2.1 Project Location and Site Description

The James V. Fitzgerald Marine Reserve is a 402-acre natural resources area on the northerncoast of San Mateo County (Figure 1). Designated as a reserve in 1969, approximately 130,000people visit annually, the main draws being the local tidepools and marine life. Offshore of thereserve is the James V. Fitzgerald State Marine Park, which lies within the Monterey Bay

National Marine Sanctuary. The Pacific Ocean borders the Study Area to the west, privateresidences border it to the north and south and a hotel, and a plant nursery and residence borderit to the east. The Half Moon Bay Airport lies approximately 1/4 mile to the southeast and PillarPoint Harbor marina lies just to the south of the airport.

The Reserve includes 370 acres of intertidal and sub tidal marine habitat and 32 acres of uplandhabitat bluffs, with elevations up to 100 feet. The northern upland area of the Reserve isdistinguished by a 90-year old grove of Monterey Cypress originally planted as a windbreak. Tothe north and south of this grove, the Reserve is a broad band of shoreline with intermittentbeaches and coastal bluffs. A small visitor center/office and a parking area are located on NorthLake Street within the Moss Beach neighborhood, adjacent to the Moss Beach Reef and SanVicente Creek.

2.2 Plant Communities

2.2.1 Methods

Plant Survey

On April 30 and July 28, 2009, WRA, Inc. conducted protocol level rare plant surveys within theStudy Area. The site visit occurred during the blooming period for San Francisco lessingia(Lessingia germanorum) and Hickman's potentilla (Potentilla hickmanii).

Plant Community Mapping

To determine the habitat suitability for federally listed plant and wildlife species within the StudyArea, WRA defined and mapped the plant communities. During the August 13 and September17, 2008 site visits, the extent of each plant community was visually determined on the ground.The composition of plant species within each plant community was then determined. Thecomposition of the plant communities are described below and the locations are illustrated inFigure 2.


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2.2.2 Results

Plant Survey

No special status plant species, including San Francisco lessingia and Hickmans potentilla, wereobserved within the Study Area during the April and July site visits. A comprehensive list of plant

species observed within the Study Area is included in Appendix D.

Plant Community Mapping

Coastal freshwater marsh, northern coastal scrub, and central coast arroyo willow riparian forest(Holland 1986) comprise the most extensive natural community types within the Study Area. Acypress grove and areas of invasive species occur within the property.

Coastal freshwater marsh within the Study Area is dominated by panicled bulrush (Scripusmicrocarpus, OBL) and coast carex (Carex obnupta, OBL). This vegetation type occurs withinSan Vicente Creek.

The northern coastal scrub habitat along the cliffs of the Study Area is dominated coyote bush(Baccharis pilularis), California sage (Artemisia californica), poison oak (Toxicodendrondiversilobum) and California blackberry (Rubus ursinus, FAC).

The central coast arroyo willow riparian forest within the Study Area is dominated by arroyowillow (Salix lasiolepis, FACW). This vegetation type occurs along the banks of San VicenteCreek

A Monterey cypress (Cupressus macrocarpa) grove covers the majority of the property. The treecanopy is predominantly composed of Monterey cypress with some eucalyptus (Eucalyptusglobulus) scattered throughout. The understory of the grove is bare and has a thick layer of leaflitter.

Non-native vegetation areas occur near the riparian communities and pedestrian pathwaysassociated with San Vicente Creek and the beach access. Non-natives occurring in these areasinclude thick leaved pittosporum (Pittosporum crassifolium) and iceplant (Carpobrotus edulis).

2.3 Soils

The Soil Survey of San Mateo County, Western Part (USDA 1991), indicates that the Study Areais underlain primarily by two soil mapping units:130, Typic Argiustolls, 0 to 5 percent slopes andBeaches.

130, Typic Argiustolls, 0 to 5 percent slopes

This map unit is located on coastal terraces with slopes ranging from 5 to 15 percent.Composition of this soil unit is 50 percent Typic Argiustolls, loamy, and 30 percent Urban Land.Native vegetation typically occurring in association with this soil type are annual grasses, forbs,and scattered brush.

Typic Arguistolls, loamy, are deep and well drained, formed in alluvium derived from coastalsediment. The surface layer is grayish brown and dark grayish brown sandy loam or sandy clayloam approximately 10 to 20 inches thick. The subsoil is clay loam, sandy clay loam, clay, or


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sandy clay to a depth of 60 inches or more. On the lower terraces, soils have higher claycontent. Permeability is moderately slow or slow in the Typic Argiustolls, and available watercapacity is high. Effective rooting depth is 60 inches or more, runoff is medium, and the hazardof water erosion is moderate. This unit is used mainly for recreational and urban development oras wildlife habitat.

Urban Land consists of areas covered by asphalt, concrete, buildings, and other structures. Thematerial covered by these structures consists of soils that are characteristically similar to TypicArgiustolls.

138, Beaches

The Beach series is an entirely hydric soil that occurs along the coastal boundary of the StudyArea. Typically, this soil type does not support woody vegetation, and is not suitable foragriculture uses.

2.4 Hydrology

The Study Area ranges in elevation from approximately sea level feet to 100 feet above meansea level. The hydrology of the Study Area is primarily driven by direct precipitation, runoff fromsurrounding areas, and flow from watershed associated with San Vicente Creek. San VicenteCreek runs along and near the northern border of the Study Area, crossing the property to thePacific Ocean. Sediment from upstream has accrued in the lower portion of San Vicente Creek,resulting in increased vegetation and wetland habitats near the mouth of the creek.

With the exception of the San Vicente Creek corridor, the Study area consists of an elevatedplateau covered in Monterey cypress, which slopes downward and east to the existing trail.

3.0 DESCRIPTION OF ACTION TO BE CONSIDERED

3.1 Project Description

The purpose of the proposed project is to improve access to the beach and the observationareas of the Fitzgerald Marine Reserve. Improvements and maintenance to the trail leadingdown to the observation area, observation deck, and beach access have been designed toincrease safety and stability, as well as create an ADA compliant resource for visitors. Inaddition, the proposed project includes the design of a one mile section of the California CoastalTrail and, as part of trail design, a clear span bridge over San Vicente Creek.

3.2 Project Schedule

The construction window for the proposed Project will be from approximately May 1 throughDecember 31. Project initiation will commence once funding has been attained, potentially in2010 or 2011.


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time of the year, adult red-legged frogs may move from breeding sites. They can be encounteredliving within streams at distances exceeding 1.8 miles from the breeding site and have beenfound greater than 1,640 feet from water, but are typically within 328 feet of water (Bulger et al.2003).

The nearest CRLF occurrence is approximately one mile to the east of the Study Area (Figure 3).

In addition, another occurrence is located approximately 1.5 miles to the southeast. Bothoccurrences are within the dispersal capabilities of the frog. Both occurrence sites were visitedduring the initial site visit in 2008 and CRLF presence was confirmed at both locations.

Highway 1 may be a dispersal barrier due to traffic during commute hours, but there is nophysical, stationary barrier such as K-rail or a fixed center divide. Other than the traffic patternsof Highway 1, the population of CRLF and SFGS on the east side of Highway 1 do not havesignificant barriers. Both water features associated with the nearest occurrences are surroundedby agricultural fields and open space. In addition, the culvert that carries San Vicente Creekunderneath Highway 1 is large and passable and may also help facilitate terrestrial movementunder the highway (Photo Appendix).

The Airport Street population of CRLF has relatively few barriers between it and the Study Area,and no barriers if a route is taken along Airport Street. In addition, a large basin occurs half wayin between the two locations which may facilitate dispersal or even provide potential breedinghabitat. This feature was dry during the initial site visit but may hold water long enough tofacilitate dispersal, and possibly breeding, during the winter months. Historic photo analysisindicates that this feature was a permanent water body in the past, showing open water in 1946,1956, 1968, 1980 and 1987. No water was observed in photos of this feature from 1991, 1992,1993, 2002 or 2005. It is assumed that this feature may have provided suitable CRLF breedinghabitat, and subsequently suitable SFGS breeding habitat, for at least 40 years. With thehydrology of this habitat altered in the last twenty years, the nearest available perennial habitat isin San Vicente Creek in the Study Area. Thus the Study Area is considered potential habitat forthese species because it is within their dispersal capabilities and may also contain a remnant

population from this historic basin. High winter water flows in San Vicente Creek likely precludeCRLF breeding attempts but this feature may provide year round non-breeding aquatic habitat.

4.1.2 Onsite Surveys

No surveys have been done to date for the CRLF in the Study Area. The nearest occurrence isapproximately 0.9 miles to the east (CNDDB 2009).

4.1.3 Potential for Occurrence

The water feature on the Seal Cove Inn property adjacent to the Study Area is suitable dispersaland foraging habitat for both SFGS and CRLF, however, it is unknown whether this feature has

the proper hydrology for CRLF breeding. Dozens of Sierran Treefrog (Pseudacris sierra)metamorphs were observed adjacent to the pond during the site visit. It is assumed that thesefrogs bred in this water feature. Treefrog eggs generally hatch in one to five weeks, and tadpolesrequire standing water for periods long enough to complete their aquatic development, whichvaries from a month at warmer localities, to three or more months at high elevations in the Sierra(Zeiner, 1990). This would indicate a minimum ponding duration of at least five weeks for thiswater feature. A ponding duration of five months and a depth of two feet is typically associatedwith CRLF breeding habitat (Jennings et al. 1993).


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4.2 San Francisco Garter Snake4.2.1 Life History and Distribution

Historically, SFGS occurred in scattered wetland areas on the San Francisco Peninsula fromapproximately the San Francisco County line south along the eastern and western bases of the

Santa Cruz Mountains, at least to the Upper Crystal Springs Reservoir, and along the coastsouth to Ao Nuevo Point, San Mateo County, and Waddell Creek, Santa Cruz County. Thepreferred habitat of the SFGS is a densely vegetated pond near an open hillside where they cansun themselves, feed, and find cover in rodent burrows; however, considerably less idealhabitats can be successfully occupied. Temporary ponds and other seasonal freshwater bodiesare also used. Emergent and bankside vegetation such as cattails (Typha spp.), bulrushes(Scirpus spp.) and spike rushes (Juncus spp.and Eleocharis spp.) apparently are preferred andused for cover. The area between stream and pond habitats and grasslands or bank sides isused for basking; while nearby dense vegetation or water often provide escape cover. Snakesalso use floating algal or rush mats, if available.

There are two significant components to SFGS habitat: 1) ponds that support the CRLF,

American Bullfrog (Rana catesbeiana), and the Sierran Treefrog and 2) the surrounding uplandthat supports the Botta's Pocket Gopher (Thomomys bottae) and the California Meadow Vole(Microtus californicus) (USFWS 2006). Ranid frogs are an obligate component of the SFGS's diet(USFWS 2006).

Specific information on the home range/territory of the SFGS subspecies is unknown. InManitoba, Canada the same species moved an average of 10.7 km (USFWS 1985). TheSFGS's home range would probably be less and determined by site conditions (food availability,cover, etc.) (USFWS 1985). Studies at Ano Nuevo State Reserve found the mean distance offemale hibernacula to the Visitor Center Pond was 459 feet, with a maximum distance of 637feet. Distances of greater than 637 feet have been reported, including an unconfirmed distanceof approximately 1000 feet (McGinnis et al. 1987).

4.2.2 Onsite Surveys

No on site surveys have been done for the SFGS. The nearest occurrence is approximately 1.3miles to the east (CNDDB 2009).

4.2.3 Potential for Occurrence

The nearest SFGS occurrence is approximately 1.3 miles to the east (Figure 3). San VicenteCreek, the temporary pond adjacent to the Study Area and a majority of the uplands within theStudy Area provide suitable dispersal and foraging habitat for this species. Details regardingnearby aquatic features and dispersal potential for SFGS are discussed in the CRLF life history

section above.


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5.0 MANNER IN WHICH ACTION MAY AFFECT LISTED SPECIES

5.1 Delineation of Action Area

The Action Area refers to all areas to be affected directly or indirectly by the Federal action and

not merely the immediate area involved in the action. [50 CFR 402.02]. The limit of theproposed Project Action Area is depicted on Figure 4. The delineation of the Action Areaaccounts for impacts associated with ground disturbance, changes to surface water and groundwater quantity and quality, air quality impacts, lighting effects, and noise disturbance. The limitsof ground disturbance are based upon the approximate limit of temporary vegetation removalneeded for construction activities. For the purposes of this consultation, the Action Area isdefined as all barrier free habitat within 2.22 miles of the proposed Project and all areas within theproposed Project boundaries.

Changes to surface water quality and quantity, as well as ground water quality and quantity, arenot anticipated due to the implementation of Project BMPs and mitigation measures. In addition,air quality impacts are anticipated to be minimal, localized within the immediate Study Area, and

associated with the construction phase of the proposed Project. No long-term or significant airquality impacts will occur following the construction of the proposed Project. No lighting effectsare anticipated since all work will be conducted during daylight hours.

5.2 Analysis of Direct Effects

Direct effects are those effects cause directly by the proposed Project.

5.2.1 California Red Legged Frog

Construction activities associated with the proposed trail have the potential to directly affectCRLF. Construction activities could result in direct mortality or injury and harassment of CRLF.

CRLF may be injured or killed during vegetation removal or movement of work crews andequipment. In addition, the visual and auditory disturbances cause by the nature of the workmay cause CRLF to leave the vicinity, increasing the risk of encounters with predators, vehicles,people and pets.

No permanent impacts will occur in non-breeding aquatic and dispersal habitat (San VicenteCreek) and 0.01 acre will be temporarily impacted because of construction activities for theproposed trail (Figure 5). In addition, approximately 0.33 acres of upland habitat will bepermanently impacted and 0.32 acres will be temporarily impacted.

5.2.2 San Francisco Garter Snake

Construction activities associated with the proposed trail have the potential to directly affectSFGS. Construction activities could result in direct mortality or injury and harassment of SFGS.SFGS may be injured or killed during vegetation removal or movement of work crews andequipment. In addition, the visual and auditory disturbances cause by the nature of the work

2Dispersing frogs in northern Santa Cruz County traveled distances up to 3600 meters (2.2 miles) without

apparent regard to topography, vegetation type, or riparian corridors (Bulger, et al. 2003). Maximumdispersal distance of SFGS is currently unknown; however, it is assumed SFGS can disperse at least1,000 ft based on unconfirmed evidence from an Ano Nuevo study.


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may cause SFGS to leave the vicinity, increasing the risk of encounters with predators, vehicles,people and pets.

No permanent impacts will occur within aquatic foraging and dispersal habitat (San VicenteCreek) and 0.01 acre will be temporarily impacted because of construction activities for the

proposed trail (Figure 5). In addition, approximately 0.33 acres of upland habitat will bepermanently impacted and 0.32will be temporarily impacted.

Table 2. Temporary and Permanent Impacts to CRLF and SFGS Habitat.

Habitat Type Permanent Impacts Temporary ImpactsCRLF Non-breeding Aquatic - 0.01 acreCRLF Upland and Dispersal 0.33 acre 0.32 acreSFGS Aquatic Foraging - 0.01 acreSFGS Upland and Dispersal 0.33 acre 0.32 acre

5.3 Analysis of Indirect Effects

Indirect effects are those caused by or will result from the proposed action later in time, but arestill reasonably certain to occur.

5.3.1 California Red Legged Frog

Future increase in trail use as a result of the proposed Project has the potential to indirectlyaffect CRLF. An increase in trail use may increase human encounters with CRLF andsubsequently increase the potential for harm or harassment. In addition, an increase in humantraffic may cause CRLF to leave the vicinity, increasing the risk of encounters with predators,vehicles, people and pets in the nearby neighborhood of Moss Beach.

5.3.2 San Francisco Garter Snake

Future increase in trail use as a result of the proposed Project has the potential to indirectlyaffect SFGS. An increase in trail use may increase human encounters with SFGS andsubsequently increase the potential for harm or harassment. In addition, an increase in humantraffic may cause SFGS to leave the vicinity, increasing the risk of encounters with predators,vehicles, people and pets in the nearby neighborhood of Moss Beach.

5.4 Analysis of Interrelated Effects

Interrelated actions are those actions that are part of the primary action and dependent upon thatprimary action for their justification. No interrelated effects are expected as a result of the

Project.

5.5 Analysis of Interdependent Effects

Interdependent actions are those actions that have no independent utility apart from the primaryaction. Construction, maintenance and use of a road required to access a site is an example ofinterdependent effect. No interdependent effects are expected as a result of the Project becauseall construction and maintenance activities are considered under the primary action.


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5.6 Analysis of Cumulative Effects

Cumulative effects are those effects of future state or private activities, not involving federalactivities, which are reasonably certain to occur within the Action Area of the federal actionsubject to consultation. No cumulative effects are expected as a result of the Project.

5.7 Mitigation Measures

The applicant proposes to offset the Project impacts to CRLF and SFGS through several means,including construction employee education, construction mitigation measures, and post-construction monitoring/restoration. The following measures are recommended to preventimpacts to sensitive herpetofauna:

At least 10 days prior to the onset of activities, the applicant or Project proponent shallsubmit the name(s) and credentials of biologists who would conduct activities specified in thefollowing measures. No Project activities shall begin until Project proponents have receivedwritten approval from the USFWS that the biologist(s) is qualified to conduct the work.

A USFWS-approved biologist shall survey the work site immediately before the onset ofactivities. If CRLF, tadpoles, or eggs are found, the approved biologist shall contact the USFWSto determine if moving any of these life-stages is appropriate. In making this determination, theUSFWS will consider if an appropriate relocation site exists. If the USFWS approves movinganimals, the approved biologist will be allowed sufficient time to move them from the work sitebefore work activities begin. Only USFWS-approved biologists shall participate in activitiesassociated with the capture, handling, and monitoring of CRLF. Any SFGS shall be allowed toleave the work area of their own accord, and shall be monitored as practical by the biologist toensure they do not reenter the work area.

Prior to the start of groundbreaking activities, all construction personnel will receive

training on listed species and their habitats by a USFWS-approved biologist. The importance ofthese species and their habitat will be described to all employees as well as the minimization andavoidance measures that are to be implemented as part of the Project. An educational brochurecontaining color photographs of all listed species in the work area(s) will be distributed to allemployees working within the Project site(s). The original list of employees who attend thetraining sessions will be maintained by the applicant and be made available for review by theUSFWS upon request.

Wildlife exclusion fencing will be erected and maintained around the perimeter of theProject and Project staging areas to prevent SFGS and CRLF from entering the site. Installationof the fence will be performed under the supervision of a USFWS-approved biologist. Once thefencing is installed, workers will clear all vegetation within this area with belt driven weed

whackers or other hand tools to a height of four to six inches. Following the removal ofvegetation, preconstruction surveys will be performed prior to the start of any ground breakingactivities by a USFWS-approved biologist. Fencing will be equipped with one-way escapefunnels. Fencing will extend a minimum of 36-inches above ground level and will be buried fourinches to six inches into the ground. Exclusion fencing will be checked a minimum of one timeper week by biological monitors for the duration of the Project to identify problems orweaknesses in fence integrity and function. All compromised portions will be repaired and/orreplaced immediately. Upon completion of the Project, all fencing material will be removed fromthe site and disposed of properly.


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A USFWS-approved biologist shall be present at the work site until such time as allremoval of CRLF and/or SFGS, instruction of workers, and habitat disturbance have beencompleted. After this time, the contractor or permittee shall designate a person to monitor on-sitecompliance with all minimization measures. The USFWS-approved biologist shall ensure that

this individual (on-site biological monitor) receives training outlined in measure three above andin the identification of CRLF and SFGS. The on-site biological monitor and the USFWS-approvedbiologist shall have the authority to halt any action that might result in impacts that exceed thelevels anticipated by the Corps and USFWS during review of the proposed action. If work isstopped, the Corps and USFWS shall be notified immediately by the USFWS-approved biologistor on-site biological monitor.

The on-site biological monitor(s) will remain on-site for the duration of the proposedProject, including vegetation removal, grading and cleanup activities. If a CRLF or SFGS isobserved at any time, the on-site biological monitor will have the authority to halt work on theProject site until these animals are no longer within the work area. If construction activities areoccurring at more than one location at a time, each area must have a minimum of one on-site

biological monitor present to increase the likelihood that listed species are detected.

All best management practices prescribed by the San Mateo County planning office forwork within sensitive habitat areas will be implemented to the full extent.

Designated construction staging areas will be utilized as the staging areas for the trailand bridge construction activities. All vehicles associated with Project activities will be clusteredwithin these areas at the end of each work day or when not in use to minimize habitatdisturbance and water quality degradation. Before vehicles move from the staging areas at thestart of each work day or before they return to this location at the end of each work day, the on-site biological monitor will check under the vehicles and their tires to ensure no listed species areutilizing the equipment as temporary shelter.

Tightly woven fiber netting or similar material shall be used for erosion control or otherpurposes at the Project to ensure that the CRLF and SFGS do not get trapped. This limitation willbe communicated to the contractor. Plastic mono-filament netting (erosion control matting),rolled erosion control products or similar material shall not be used at the Project site becausered-legged frog, garter snake, and other species may become entangled or trapped in it.

No lighting will be incorporated at any location into the Project design.

To discourage recreational users from leaving designated trails, interpretive signsdescribing the sensitivity of the habitat and how to utilize the property in an ecologically sensitivemanner will be placed at trailheads and wetlands adjacent to enhanced trails. If rehabilitated

trails show continued signs of usage, the applicant will implement additional preventativemeasures, such as the installation of additional signage or fencing. Trailhead signs will alsodescribe the importance of prohibitions on unrestrained domestic pets and the associated finesfor violating these laws.

No trash shall be deposited on the site during construction activities. All trash shall beplaced in trash receptacles with secure lids or stored in vehicles.


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Fueling and maintenance of equipment will be conducted off-site and at least 50 feet fromany wetland.

Because CRLF and SFGS may take refuge in cavity-like and den-like structures such aspipes and may enter stored pipes and become trapped, all construction pipes, culverts, or similar

structures that are stored at a construction site for one or more overnight periods will be eithersecurely capped prior to storage or thoroughly inspected by the on-site biologist and/or theconstruction foreman/manager for these animals before the pipe is subsequently buried, capped,or otherwise used or moved in any way. If a red-legged frog is discovered inside a pipe by theon-site biologist or anyone else, the on-site biologist shall move the animal to a safe nearbylocation and monitor it until it is determined that it is not imperiled by predators or other dangers.If a SFGS is found, it should be allowed to passively leave the work area on its own, asdetermined by the on-site biologist, or moved by a SFGS permitted biologist with permissionfrom USFWS and CDFG.

To prevent inadvertent entrapment of CRLF and SFGS during construction, the on-sitebiologist and/or construction foreman/manager shall ensure that all excavated, steep-walled

holes or trenches more than one foot deep are completely covered at the close of each workingday by plywood or similar materials, or provided with one or more escape ramps constructed ofearth fill or wooden planks and inspected by the on-site biologist. Before such holes or trenchesare filled, they will be thoroughly inspected for trapped animals by the on-site biologist and/orconstruction foreman/manager. If at any time a trapped CRLF or SFGS is discovered by the on-site biologist or anyone else, it should be allowed to passively leave the work area on its own, asdetermined by the on-site biologist, or moved by a SFGS permitted biologist with permissionfrom USFWS and CDFG.

Permanent and temporary disturbances and other types of Project-related disturbance tothe habitats of the garter snake shall be minimized to the maximum extent practicable. Tominimize temporary disturbances, all Project-related vehicle traffic shall be restricted to

established roads, construction areas, and other designated areas. These areas should beestablished in locations disturbed by previous activities to prevent further adverse effects.

California Red Legged Frog

Preconstruction surveys for the CRLF will be performed by USFWS-approved biologiststhroughout the action area immediately prior to groundbreaking activities. If a CRLF is observed,a USFWS-approved biologist will remove these individuals to locations outside of the work areabut within the greater property boundary. Red-legged frogs will not be removed from the vicinityor remain in captivity over night unless in the care of a certified wildlife veterinarian.

Under no circumstances will mosquito fish (Gambusia affinis) be introduced at any

location within the Study Area. If pesticide application for mosquito abatement becomesnecessary, the applicant will contact the USFWS and the San Mateo mosquito abatement districtfor further guidance.

Upon completion of the construction and rehabilitation phases of the proposed Project,the applicant will monitor the property regularly and according to a USFWS-approved monitoringplan to ensure the successful establishment of native plants in all restored areas. Any plantspecies observed in these areas determined to be invasive will be removed.


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14

Because dusk and dawn are often the times when CRLF are most actively foraging anddispersing, all construction activities should cease one half hour before sunset and should notbegin prior to one half hour before sunrise.

San Francisco Garter Snake

Preconstruction surveys for the SFGS will be performed by USFWS-approved biologiststhroughout the action area immediately prior to groundbreaking activities. If at any time duringthe survey, vegetation removal, or construction phases of the proposed Project a SFGS isobserved within the action area, the animal will be allowed to passively leave the work areaunless in circumstances where the animal is determined to be trapped as discussed above.

All vegetation removed during trail construction activities will remain on-site uponcompletion of trail development. A portion of this vegetation will be utilized to facilitate therehabilitation of the existing unofficial trails. The remainder of the removed vegetation will bebundled into small piles and placed near on-site aquatic areas to provide cover for local SFGS.

6.0 DETERMINATION OF EFFECT

The analysis included herein concludes that the proposed Project may adversely affect CRLFand SFGS. However, through careful analysis of the biological resources within the Study Area,the applicant has developed a site plan for the Project that avoids and minimizes impacts toFederal-listed species within the vicinity of the Study Area. Numerous protection measures havebeen incorporated into the proposed Project design. The implementation of the proposedmeasures described above and additional input from USFWS will assure protection of thesespecies and ensure that the Project will not jeopardize the continued existence of these species.

Due to the lack of suitable habitat within the Study Area, it was determined that the proposed

Project would not adversely San Mateo thornmint, fountain thistle, Santa Cruz cypress, SanMateo woolly sunflower, Marin dwarf-flax (=western flax), white-rayed pentachaeta, baycheckerspot butterfly, black abalone, white abalone, mission blue butterfly, San Bruno elfinbutterfly, Callippe silverspot butterfly, Myrtle's silverspot butterfly, Green sturgeon, Tidewatergoby, Coho Salmon - central CA coast, Central California Coastal steelhead, Central Valleyspring-run Chinook salmon, Winter-run Chinook salmon, Sacramento River, California tigersalamander, Marbled Murrelet, Western Snowy Plover, California Brown Pelican, CaliforniaClapper Rail, California Least Tern, Salt marsh harvest mouse, Guadalupe Fur Seal, SouthernSea Otter and Steller (=northern) Sea-lion.

In addition, the action addressed within this Biological Assessment does not fall within CriticalHabitat for any federally-listed species. Therefore, none will be adversely modified or destroyed.


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15

7.0 REFERENCES

Bulger, J.B., Scott, N.J., and Seymour, R.B. 2003. Terrestrial activity and conservation of adultCalifornia red-legged frogs Rana aurora draytonii in coastal forests and grasslands.Biological Conservation 110:8595.

California Department of Fish and Game, Biogeographic Data Branch (CDFG). 2009. CaliforniaNatural Diversity Database (CNDDB). Sacramento.

California Native Plant Society (CNPS). 2007. Plant Species Accounts.http://cnps.web.aplus.net/cgi-bin/inv/inventory.cgi

Fellers, G. 2005. Rana draytonii Baird and Girard, 1852b California red-legged frog. Pages552-554 in M. Lannoo (ed.). Amphibian declines the conservation status of United Statesspecies. University of California Press, Berkeley, California.

Holland, R.F. 1986. Preliminary descriptions of the terrestrial natural communities of

California. State of California, The Resources Agency.

Jennings, M. R., M. P. Hayes and D. C. Holland. 1993. A petition to the U. S. Fish and WildlifeService to place the California Red-legged Frog (Rana aurora draytonii) and the WesternPond Turtle (Clemmys marmorata) on the list of endangered and threatened wildlife andplants.

McGinnis, S., P. Keel, and E, Burko. 1987. The use of upland habitats by snake species at AnoNuevo State Reserve. Report to California Department of Fish and Game, Sacramento,California. 13 pp.

USDA (United States Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service),

1991. Soil Survey of San Mateo County, Eastern Part, and San Francisco County,California.

USFWS. 2009. Federally Endangered and Threatened Species List, San Mateo County.http://www.fws.gov/sacramento/es/spp_lists/auto_list.cfmUSFWS. 2008b. SpeciesAccounts. http://www.fws.gov/sacramento/es/spp_info.htm

USFWS. 2006. Formal Consultation on the Mori Point Restoration and Trail Plan in the GoldenGate National Recreation Area in the City of Pacifica, San Mateo County, California.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 1985. Recovery Plan for the San Francisco Garter Snake(Thamnophis sirtalis tetrataenia). U.S. Fish and Wildl. Serv., Portland, OR. 77 pp.

Zeiner, D. C., W. F. Laudenslayer, Jr., K. E. Mayer, and M. White. 1990. California'sWildlife, Volume I-III: Amphibians and Reptiles, Birds, Mammals. California StatewideWildlife Habitat Relationships System, California Department of Fish and Game,Sacramento.

Zeiner, D. C., W. F. Laudenslayer, Jr., K. E. Mayer, and M. White. 1990. California's Wildlife,Volume I-III: Amphibians and Reptiles, Birds, Mammals. California Statewide WildlifeHabitat Relationships System, California Department of Fish and Game, Sacramento.


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APPENDIX A - Table of Potential Federal-Listed Species


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A-17

Appendix A. Federal endangered, threatened and candidate species known to occur in San MateoUSFWS species lists (USFWS 2009), USFWS species accounts (USFWS 2009), and California Nativaccounts (CNPS 2009).

SPECIES STATUS* HABITAT POTEN

Mammals

Salt Marsh Harvest MouseReithrodontomys raviventris

FE Primary habitat in pickleweed-dominatedsaline emergent marshes of San FranciscoBay. Require adjacent upland areas forescape from high tides.

No Potenot pres

Guadalupe Fur SealArctocephalus townsendi

FT Breeds on Isla de Guadalupe off the coastof Mexico, occasionally found on SanMiguel, San Nicolas, and San Clementeislands. Prefers shallow, nearshore islandwater with cool and sheltered rocky areasfor haul-outs.

No Potarea.

Southern Sea OtterEnhydra lutris nereis

FT Nearshore marine environments from aboutAo Nuevo, San Mateo County. To PointSal, Santa Barbara County. Needscanopies of giant kelp and bull kelp forrafting and feeding. Prefers rockysubstrates with abundant invertebrates.

Presentobservecoast of

Steller Sea-lionEumetopias jubatus

FT Breeds on Ao Nuevo, San Miguel andFarallon islands, Point Saint George, andSugarloaf. Hauls-out on islands and rocks.Needs haul-out and breeding sites withunrestricted access to water, near aquaticfood supply and with no human disturbance.

No Potarea.


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A-18

Birds

California Brown PelicanPelecanus occidentalis

californicus

FE Found in estuarine, marine subtidal, andmarine pelagic waters along the coast.

Nest on rocky or low brushy slopes ofundisturbed islands.

UnlikelyStudy A

Marbled MurreletBrachyramphus marmoratus

FT Breeds in old-growth redwood standscontaining platform-like branches along thecoast.

UnlikelyStudy A

California Clapper RailRallus longirostris obsoletus

FE Found in tidal salt marshes of the SanFrancisco Bay. Require mudlfats forforaging and dense vegetation on higherground for nesting.

Not Prhabitat present

Western Snowy PloverCharadrius alexandrinusnivosus

FT Found on sandy beaches, salt pond leveesand shores of large alkali lakes. Needsandy gravelly or friable soils for nesting.

Unlikelyto nest breeding

howevethe shor

California Least TernSterna antillarum browni

FE Breeding colonies in San Francisco Bayfound in abandoned salt ponds and alongestuarine shores. Nests on barren tosparsely vegetated site near water.

Unlikelycontain this spforage o

Reptiles and Amphibians

California Tiger SalamanderAmbystoma californiense

FT Inhabits annual grass habitat and mammalburrows. Seasonal ponds and vernal poolscrucial to breeding

Not Preupland Study A

California Red-legged Frog

Rana aurora draytonii

FT Associated with quiet perennial to

intermittent ponds, stream pools andwetlands. Prefers shorelines with extensivevegetation. Documented to dispersethrough upland habitats after rains.

Modera

pond adprovide habitat in the suitable


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A-19

San Francisco Garter SnakeThamnophis sirtalistetrataenia

FE Vicinity of freshwater marshes, ponds andslow moving streams in San Mateo Countyand extreme northern Santa Cruz County.Prefers dense vegetative cover and waterdepths of at least one foot. Upland areas

near water are important habitat features.

Moderapond adprovide this speStudy

estivatio

Fish

Green SturgeonAcipenser medirostris

FT Spawn in the Sacramento River and theKlamath River. Spawn at temperaturesbetween 8-14 degrees C. Preferredspawning substrate is large cobble, but canrange from clean sand to bedrock.

Not Prehabitat p

Coho Salmon- Central CACoastOncorhynchus kisutch

FE Federal listing includes populationsbetween Punta Gorda and San LorenzoRiver. State listing includes populationssouth of San Francisco Bay only. Occurs

inland and in coastal marine waters.Requires beds of loose, silt-free, coarsegravel for spawning. Also needs cover, coolwater and sufficient dissolved oxygen.

Not Prehabitat p

Central California CoastalSteelheadOncorhynchus mykissirideus

FT Federal listing includes all runs from theRussian River, south to Soquel Creek,inclusive. Includes the San Francisco andSan Pablo Bay basins but excludes theSacramento-San Joaquin River basins.Adults migrate upstream to spawn in cool,clear, well-oxygenated streams. Juvenilesremain in fresh water for 1 or more years

before migrating downstream to the ocean

Not Prehabitat p

Central Valley Spring-runChinook SalmonOncorhynchus tshawytscha

FT Federal listing includes populationsspawning in the Sacramento River & itstributaries. Adults migrate upstream tospawn in cool, clear, well-oxygenated riversand streams.

Not Prehabitat p


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A-20

Winter-run Chinook Salmon,Sacramento RiverOncorhynchus tshawytscha

FE Prior to the construction of Shasta Dam,likely spawned in the headwaters of theSacramento, in streams fed mainly by theflow of constant-temperature springs.Currently spawn in the mainstem of the

Sacramento from Redding downstream toTehama. Adults migrate upstream to spawnin cool, clear, well-oxygenated streams.

Not Prehabitat p

Tidewater GobyEucyclogobius newberryi

FE Found in the brackish waters of coastallagoons, marshes, creeks, and estuaries.Unique among fishes of the Pacific coast,gobies are restricted to waters of lowsalinity in coastal wetlands. They feed alongthe bottom, preferring clean, shallow, slow-moving waters.

Not Prehabitat p

Invertebrates

Bay checkerpsot butterflyEuphydryas editha bayensis

FT Restricted to native grasslands on outcropsof serpentine soil in the vicinity of SanFrancisco Bay. Plantago erecta is theprimary host plant.

Unlikelynear the

Callippe silverspot butterflySpeyeria callippe callippe

FE The callippe silverspot is found in nativegrassland and adjacent habitats. Johnny

jump-up (Viola pedunculata), is the primaryhost plant. The species was knownhistorically to occur in seven populations inthe San Francisco Bay region, including theinner coast range from northwestern ContraCosta County south to the Castro Valley

area in Alameda County.

Unlikelynear the

Myrtle's silverspot butterflySpeyeria zerene myrtleae

FE Foggy, coastal dunes and hills of the PointReyes Peninsula.

Not PreMateo C

mission blue butterflyIcaricia icarioidesmissionensis

FE Grasslands of the San Francisco Peninsula.Host plants are three species of lupine, ofwhich Lupinus albifrons is preferred.

Unlikelynear the


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A-21

San Bruno elfin butterflyIncisalia mossii bayensis

FE Colonies are located on steep, north-facingslopes in the vicinity of San Brunomountain, San Mateo County. Larval hostplant is Sedum spathulifolium.

Unlikelynear the

black abaloneHaliotes cracherodii

FC Ranges from Cabo San Lucas toMendocino County. Found in intertidal andshallow subtidal areas.

Presentoccur inof the S

white abaloneHaliotes sorenseni

FE White abalone is the first marineinvertebrate to be listed under the ESA andis reported to be most abundant between25-30 m (80-100 ft depth).

No Potarea.

Plants

San Mateo thornmintAcanthomintha duttonii

FE Chaparral, valley and foothill grassland,often on serpentine soils. 50-300m.Blooms April-June.

Unlikelynative gSerpentthe Proj

fountain thistleCirsium fontinale var.fontinale

FE Chaparral, cismontane woodlands, valleyand foothill grasslands, often in serpentiniteseeps. 90-175m elevation. Blooms June-Oct.


Santa Cruz cypressCupressus abramsiana

FE Closed-cone coniferous forest, chaparral,lower montane coniferous forest, often insandstone or granitic areas. 280-800 melevation.

Not Preobserveduring s

San Mateo woolly sunflowerEriophyllum latilobum

FE Cismontane woodland, often on roadcuts,on and off of serpentine, 45-150 melevation. Blooms May-June.

No Potoccurs w

Marin dwarf-flax (=western

flax)Hesperolinon congestum

FT Chaparral and valley and foothill grassland

on serpentine soils. 5- 370 m. Blooms April-July.

Unlikely

native gSerpentthe Proj


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A-22

San Francisco lessingiaLessingia germanorum

FE Coastal scrub, possibly in remnant dunehabitat. 25-90m. Blooms July-November.

Not Prehabitat Area. Thduring th

white-rayed pentachaetaPentachaeta bellidiflora

FE Valley and foothill grassland (often onserpentine soil) and cismontane woodland.35- 620 m. Blooms March- May.


Hickman's potentilla(=cinquefoil)Potentilla hickmanii

FE Coastal bluff scrub, closed-cone coniferousforest, meadows and seeps, freshwatermarshes and swamps. 10-135m. BloomsApril-August.

Not Prehabitat Area. Tduring surveys

* FE = Federal Endangered, FT = Federal Threatened, FC = Federal Candidate


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APPENDIX B - Project Figures


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1

Date: October 2009Map By: Sundaran GillespieFilepath:l:/Acad2000/18000/18054/

gis/Arcmap/Location Map.mxd

Figure 1. Location Map

Fitzgerald Marine Reserve

Half Moon Bay, CA

0 0.2 0.40.1Miles

San MateoCounty

San FranciscoCounty

280

80

101

101

35

82

1

92

35

Study Area

StudyArea

Cypress

AveVe

rmont

Ave

N.LakeSt.


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Date: December 2008Image Date: 04-01-07Image Source: TerraserverMap By: Sundaran GillespieFilepath: l:\ACAD2000\18054\GIS\ArcMap*.m

Fitzgerald Marine R

Moss Beach,California

2169-G East Francisco San Rafael, CA 9490(415) 454-8868 Phon

(415) 454-0129 Fax

0 100 2050

Figure 2. BiologCommunities M

Study Area: 22.5 acres

High Tide Line

San Vicente Creek: 0.11 acre

Non-Native Annual Grassland: 0.21 acre

Disturbed Perrenial Herbaceous: 1.88 acres

Developed/Landscaped: 1.30 acres

Invasive Plant Community: 0.36 acre

Eucalyptus/Monterey Cypress: 0.38 acre

Northern Coastal Scrub: 1.63 acres

Monterey Cypress: 14.09 acres

Seasonal Wetland: 0.003 acre

Central Coast Arroyo WillowRiparian Forest: 0.72 acre

Coastal Freshwater Marsh: 0.09 acre

Native Strawberry: 0.11 acre

Beach: 0.49 acre

Sea Cliff: 1.19 acres


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Date: September 2008Image Date: 04-01-07Image Source: TerraserverMap By: Sundaran GillespieFilepath: l:\ACAD2000\18054\GIS\ArcMap\Wild

Fitzgerald Marine Re


Figure 3.Federally List

Species Occurreand Potential Ha

Length:1.61Miles

Length:0.57Miles

Lengt

h:1.42Mil

esLeng

th:1.04M

iles

Length

:0.85M

iles

Leng

th:0.94

Mile

s

2169-G East Francisco BSan Rafael, CA 9490(415) 454-8868 Phon

(415) 454-0129 Fax

0 800400

Legend

Study Area

CRLF Occurrence Pond

SFGS Occurrence/CRLF Habitat Pond

Potential or Historic CRLF Habitat Pond

CRLF/SFGS Corridor

SFGS 1000' Buffer


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Date: October 2009Image Date: 2005Image Source: NAIPMap By: Sundaran GillespieFilepath: l:\ACAD2000\18054\GIS\ArcMap\Wild

Fitzgerald Marine Re


Figure 4.

Delineation ofAction Area

2169-G East Francisco BSan Rafael, CA 9490(415) 454-8868 Phon

(415) 454-0129 Fax

0 0.50.25

Miles

Study Area

SFGS & CRLF Action Area

ActionArea

Study Area


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Date: January 2010Image Date: 04-01-07Image Source: TerraserverMap By: Michael RochelleFilepath: l:\ACAD2000\18054\GIS\ArcMap*.mx

Fitzgerald Marine R


CRLF & SFGSImpact Map

2169-G East Francisco San Rafael, CA 9490(415) 454-8868 Phon

(415) 454-0129 Fax

0 15075

Study Area

Extent of Temporary Impacts

Extent of Permanent Impacts

CRLF Non-breeding Aquatic/SFGS Aquatic Foraging Habitat (0.11

CRLF & SFGS Dispersal/Upland Habitat (19.34 acres)

Permanently Impacted Habitat:- CRLF Non-breeding Aquatic/

SFGS Aquatic Foraging(No Impacts)

- CRLF & SFGS Dispersal/Upland(0.33 acre)

Temporarily Impacted Habitat:- CRLF Non-breeding Aquatic/

SFGS Aquatic Foraging(0.01 acre)

- CRLF & SFGS Dispersal/Upland(0.32 acre)

1:400

1:200

Bridge Span -No OHWM/Aquatic Impacts

Overlook 1

Overlo

ok2


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APPENDIX C Photographs of Study Area


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Top: San Vicente Creek looking east.

Bottom: The existing footbridge above SanVicente Creek.


33/39

Top: Existing multi-use trail and future trailalignment location.

Bottom: A culvert that runs beneath Highway 1,connecting the Project Area to known CRLF andSFGS occurrences.


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Top: The historic basin and potential CRLFbreeding habitat adjacent to Airport Road.

Bottom: The temporary water feature andtreefrog breeding habitat adjacent to the ProjectArea.


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APPENDIX D - Species Observed Within the Study Area


36/39


37/39

Ludwigia peploides ludwigia

Lupinus bicolor bicolored lupin

Lupinus arboreus coastal bush lupine

Lythrum californicum common loosestrife

Malva sp. malva

Mimulus guttatus yellow monkeyflower

Picris echioides prickly ox tongue

Pittosporum crassifolium thick-leaved pittosporum

Plantago lanceolata English plantain

Plantago erecta California plantain

Poa annua blue-eyed grass

Polygonum persicaria ladys thumb

Polypogon monspeliensis rabbitsfoot grass

Polystichum californicum Sword fern

Potentilla anserina silverweed

Raphanus sativa wild radish

Ribes sp. currant

Rubus ursinus California blackberry

Rubus discolor Himalayan blackberry

Rumex crispus curly dock

Salix lasiolepis arroyo willow

Sambucus racemosa elderberry

Scrophularia californica bee plant

Senecio mikanioides german ivy

Sonchus asper spiny sowthistle

Toxicodendron diversilobum poison oak

Tropaeolum majus nasturtium

Urtica dioica stinging nettle

Vinca major periwinkle

Vulpia myuros rattail fescue


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Wildlife Species

Mammals

Pacific Harbor Seal Phoca vitulina richardii

Bottas Pocket Gopher (burrows) Thomomys bottae

Raccoon (tracks) Procyon lotor

Birds

California Quail Callipepla californica

Double-crested Cormorant Phalacrocorax auritus

Great Blue Heron Ardea herodias

Red-shouldered Hawk Buteo lineatus

Red-tailed Hawk Buteo jamaicensisKilldeer Charadrius vociferus

Black Oystercatcher Haematopus bachmani

Western Sandpiper Calidris mauri

Western Gull Larus occidentalis

Band-tailed Pigeon Patagioenas fasciata

Mourning Dove Zenaida macroura

Anna's Hummingbird Calypte anna

Belted Kingfisher Ceryle alcyon

Downy Woodpecker Picoides pubescens

Northern Flicker Colaptes auratus

Black Phoebe Sayornis nigricans

Western Scrub-Jay Aphelocoma californica

Chestnut-backed Chickadee Poecile rufescens

Bushtit Psaltriparus minimus

American Robin Turdus migratorius

Common Yellowthroat Geothlypis trichas

Song Sparrow Melospiza melodia

Dark-eyed Junco Junco hyemalis

House Finch Carpodacus mexicanus


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Herpetofauna

Sierra Treefrog Pseudacris sierra

Documents

Fitzgerald Marine Reserve Biological Assessment: San Mateo County Parks Dept