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676, Construct a below ground sport, Studies & Reports18 Pine Tree Lane, Rolling Hills, CA, 90274 FINAL Biological Assessment Prepared for: Austin and Czarina Su 18 Pine Tree Lane Rolling Hills, CA 90274 Prepared by: Steven Esselman Myra L. Franks SSS Jones & Stokes 811 W. 7th Street, Suite 800 Los Angeles, CA 90017 January 14, 2004 18 Pine Tree Lane, Rolling Hills, CA, 90274 Biological Assessment Table of Contents Summary of Findings and Conclusions 1 Impacts to Critical Habitat 1 Impacts to Federally Listed Species 1 Summary of Possible Mitigation . 1 Introduction .. 2 Project Purpose 2 Project Location 2 Project Description ... 2 Study Methodology .7 Personnel and Survey Effort 7 Environmental Setting . 7 Existing Level of Disturbance and Environmental Baseline 10 Listed Species Potentially Occurring in the Project Area 11 Coastal California Gnatcatcher .11 Lyon's Pentachaeta ..12 Mohave Tui Chub 13 Palos Verdes Blue Butterfly 14 Conclusions and Recommendations 15 Possible Mitigation .. 16 List of Contacts 17 Cited References ..18 Figures and Tables Figure 1. Project Vicinity Map 3 Figure 2. Project Location Map . 4 Figure 3. Western View of the Site from the Cul-de-Sac 5 Figure 4. Southwestern View of the Site from the Eastern Portion of the Site 5 Figure 5. Northern View of the Site from the Central Interior of the Site .6 Figure 6. California Natural Diversity Database Map . 8 Figure 7. Preliminary Vegetation Map for 18 Pine Tree Lane 9 Table 1. List of Observed Wildlife 11 ii 18 Pine Tree Lane, Rolling Hills, CA, 90274 Biological Assessment Summary of Findings and Conclusions Impacts to Critical Habitat Construction of a new home at 18 Pine Tree Lane, Rolling Hills, CA, 90274 would result in the loss of, and impact to, roughly 0.10 to 0.25 acres of potentially suitable habitat for the coastal California gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica californica) (i.e., chaparral habitat of the Sumac series). However, gnatcatchers nest and forage almost exclusively within the coastal sage scrub vegetation community and only sporadically within the chaparral vegetation community. Therefore, there is a low potential for direct impacts to gnatcatchers due to the loss of chaparral habitat. Impacts to Federally Listed Species Coastal California Gnatcatcher Construction of the new home may directly affect coastal California gnatcatchers. There is a low potential for the direct take of individuals and occupied habitat within the footprint of the proposed project and indirect impacts of construction noise and dust in the area adjacent to construction. The coastal California gnatcatcher is a federally listed Threatened species. Lyon's Pentachaeta Construction of the new home would not directly affect Lyon's pentachaeta communities. Mohave Tui Chub Construction of the new home would not directly affect Mohave tui chubs. Palos Verdes Blue Butterfly Construction of the new home would not directly affect Palos Verdes blue butterflies. Summary of Possible Mitigation Below is a summary of possible mitigation. See the Conclusion and Recommendations section of this document for a more thorough description of each possible mitigation measure: 1. Replacement/restoration of native chaparral habitat at a 1-to-1 ratio onsite; 2. Removal of non-native plants at a 1-to-1 ratio onsite; 3. Buy into a mitigation bank for the coastal California gnatcatcher; 1 4. Provide an onsite biologist to monitor construction activity; and/or 5. Recommend thinning the chaparral onsite to reduce risk of wildfires. Introduction This document describes the existing biological environment of the private parcel located at 18 Pine Tree Lane, Rolling Hills, California, 90272 and assesses the impacts of the proposed project on four federally listed endangered and threatened species. This Biological Assessment (BA) is prepared in accordance with the requirements of Section 10 (for projects that does not involve federal permits, authorizations, or funding) of the Federal Endangered Species Act (FESA) of 1973 (50 CFR Part 402) and California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG) Code 2080 as mandated by the California Endangered Species Act (CESA). The former involves consultation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and the latter with the CDFG. Preparation of this document is also required for consultation with the CDFG under the State's Native Plant Protection Act (NPPA) (CDFG Code 1900-1903). This proposed project might also fall under the jurisdiction of the Federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) if activities result in the removal or destruction of an active nest. Proiect Purpose The purpose of this proposed project is to build a new home for Mr. Austin Su and Mrs. Czarina Su at 18 Pine Tree Lane, Rolling Hills, CA, 90274. Project Location The proposed project is located on a private parcel at 18 Pine Tree Lane, Rolling Hills, CA, 90274. The total lot size is 123,710 square foot (sq. ft.) and is located at the northern terminus of Pine Tree Lane at the end of a cul-de-sac. Figures 1 and 2 are maps of the project vicinity and location, respectively. Figures 3, 4, and 5 are photos of the proposed project site taken by the author on the day of the field visit. Proiect Description The proposed project entails building a 7,214-sq.-ft. residence, a 1,253-sq.-ft. garage, a 700-sq.- ft. swimming pool, and, eventually, a 450-sq.-ft. stable on the private parcel. The total structures would occupy a total 9,713-sq.-ft. and the driveway would encompass 8,560 sq. ft. Grading of the new residence would require 4,600 cubic yards (cu. yds.) of cut and fill. The total building pad is 32,640 sq. ft. and grading would result in a total net lot disturbance of 39 percent. It is due to this significant disturbance and because the parcel is located within critical habitat for the coastal California gnatcatcher that the City of Rolling Hills has required a BA of 18 Pine Tree Lane. 2 Figure 1. Project Vicinity Map Project Location O0 5 10 20 Miles Sources: U.S. Census TIGER Data, 2000; Jones & Stokes Associates, 2003. 3 _-Prestric_i_ge R.,oad --- RANCHO PALOS VERDSS PAC/Pic oc t. '111/ CRY of Los Angeles PACIFIC OCEAN Los Angeles county Figure 2. Project Location Map ----2RoLLIN I.:LSESTATES i30,03 \ 00. UNIN90111PORAtSD / \ ,s,"/",/ /,/ „yrs, \ ING r \ , (-.. ,.....-..., ....-, --,..,<-- ,--'N'-',`(, i -\.---,-,'---\\ ;,,- .. --2,-. '(---:',-,--- \ ...-/- ---// - 1 ----.7.-- \-- Sources: U.S. Census Bureau TIGER Data, 2000; Jones & Stokes Associates, 2003. 0 0.25 0.5 1 Miles -- 4 1 1 1 i 1 1 1 1 1 t 1 1 1 Figure 3. Western View of the Site from ....;;�.r; the Cul-de-Sac .lourCe:Myra L. Frank/Jones & Stokes, 03 Figure 4. Southwestern • View of the Site from the Eastern Portion of the Site 3o •Myra L. Frank/Jones & Stokes, 2003 5 Central Interior of the Site 111 'View of the Site from the Trig°re'' Northern vl k p3 aT, FLankllones & Stokes, 2� so�Ce: MYr 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 t t I I Study Methodology I Literature searches were used to evaluate the environmental setting of the proposed project site and included: 1) searches of available literature about the region, 2) a search of the California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB) (CDFG 2003) within a 2-mile radius of the site, and 3) a I search of the California Native Plant Society (CNPS) Electronic Inventory (CNPS 2002). These searches revealed the potential for four federally listed species to be present within the proposed project site. (refer to Figure 6, the CNDDB Map). Please note that south coast saltscale I (Atriplex pacifica) was immediately removed from consideration due to the fact that this species requires alkaline flat habitat; alkaline flats are not present within the proposed project site. I A biological field visit of the proposed project site (i.e., study area) was performed on December 3, 2003. A reconnaissance survey for the four federally listed species was performed at this time. The survey was conducted by walking the entire project site noting vegetation I communities and dominant plant species. Visual and auditory observations of wildlife species were recorded. Incidental observations of other wildlife species or wildlife indicators (e.g., burrows, tracks, scat, rubs, etc.) were also noted. Photo -documentation of each community type I was compiled for reference and for the documentation of future changes or improvements in habitat quality for the site. I A delineation of wetlands was deemed not necessary at this time because the three indicators of wetlands: 1) wetland hydrology, 2) hydric (i.e., saturated) soils, and 3) hydrophytes (i.e., water - loving plants) (ACOE 1987) were not found to be present at the site. IPersonnel and Survey Effort The principal investigator for this BA is Steven Esselman of Myra L. Frank/Jones & Stokes (MFA/JSA). He is a staff biologist with MFA/JSA and is a certified wetland delineator. Mr. Esselman conducted an initial 1-day field survey on December 3, 2003 to search for direct and indirect evidence of the four federally listed species potentially occurring on the project site. I The author wishes to stress that the survey performed is only an initial assessment and that more exhaustive surveys may be required. IEnvironmental Setting The acreage surrounding the proposed project site falls into the California Floristic Province, I Southwestern California Region, South Coast Subregion (CA -FP SW SCo) Geographic Subdivision of California and Climate Zones 22-24 (Hickman 1996). Coastal sage scrub and chaparral communities with many native species dominate this geographic subdivision and this I climate range is generally considered Mediterranean, a climate dominated by winter rains with only sporadic frost and hot arid summers (Walter 1985). Figure 6. California Natural Diversity Database Map sources: California Department of Fish and Game's California Natural Diversity Database, Nov. 2003; Jones 8, tokeeAssociates, 2003. 0 0.5 Legend • 18 Pine Tree Lane 2 Mlle Buffer of 18 Pine Tree Lane Q Endangered Threatened Proposed Endangered Proposed Threatened n Candidate n Species of Concern ONot Threatened 1 2 Miles 1. Palos Verdes blue butterfly Glaucopsyche lygdamus palosverdesensls Fedllst: 1 Cellist: 5 GRank: G5T1 SRanlc S1 2. Mohave tul chub Gila bicolormohavensls Fedliat:1 Cellist 1 GRank: G4T1 SRank S1 3. Coastal California gnatcatcher Polloptila califomica callfomlca Fedllst 2 Cellist: 5 GRank: G3T2 SRank: S2 4. South Coast saltscale Abiplex paciflca Fedllst 7 Cellist: 5 GRank: G3T4 SRank S2.2 5. Lyon's pentachaeta Pentachaeta Iyonll Fedlist: 1 Calllst: 1 GRank: G1 SRank S1.1 0 8 Figure 7. Preliminary Vegetation Map for 18 Pine Tree Lane a m...M1110) Legend Ruderal Sumac Series Eucalyptus Ornamental Area of Impact iscons Preliminary Vegetation Map for 18 PlneTree Lane , Source: Myra L.Frank/Jones & Stokes, 2004. Base map provided by Bolton Engineering, 2003. 9 The coastal sage scrub community is comprised of relatively low -growing, summer (dry -season) deciduous and succulent plants. Characteristic plants of this community include coastal sagebrush (Artemisia californica), various species of sage (Salix spp.), and California buckwheat (Eriogonum fasciculatum) (Walter 1985). The California chaparral community is comprised of plants that have adapted by conserving water through small, waxy leaves and through adaptations to deal with drought stress. The climate of the chaparral is generally hot and dry in the summers and rainy and mild in the winters. The most common species of the California chaparral are chamise (Adenostoma fasciculatum), the manzanitas (Arctostaphylos spp.), and various species of ceanothus (Ceanothus spp.) (Vankat 1979). The only native vegetation community found on the project site corresponds with Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf's (1995) Sumac series. This series is described as being dominated with laurel sumac (Malosma laurina) or lemonade berry (Rhus integrifolia) and may contain black sage (Salvia mellifera). Toyon (Heteromeles arbutifolia) may also be present in the canopy. Along the entire northern edge of the private parcel, a native chaparral community co -dominated with lemonade berry and toyon is present. Also present are one or several sage species, including black sage (see Figure 7, Preliminary Vegetation Map for 18 Pine Tree Lane). This community type is also referred to as south mixed chaparral, mixed chaparral (coastal form), or, simply, mixed chaparral. A review of the U.S. Geological Survey Redondo Beach Quadrangle 7.5-minute topographic map revealed no "blue -line" streams within the proposed project site. Existing Level of Disturbance and Environmental Baseline The majority of the proposed project site at 18 Pine Tree Lane is highly disturbed with ruderal (i.e., weedy) plant species. The whole northern edge of the parcel is dominated by chaparral of the Sumac series (see above for definition). This particular chaparral community is very dense and overgrown with some individual shrubs reaching heights of 15 to 20 feet. Non-native ornamental trees, shrubs, and groundcover planted by the owner to stabilize the slope dominate the southwestern edge. Weedy grasses and herbaceous plants dominate most of the flat area in the central, eastern, and southeastern portions of the parcel. A few chaparral species have begun to encroach upon the edge of the weedy flat area. Eucalyptus trees (approximately 30 to 50 feet tall) are scattered in groupings throughout the parcel in the flat central area. Three of these trees in the center of the parcel are marked for removal to make way for the proposed house's footprint. Please refer to Figure 7, the Vegetation Community Map, for the approximate placement of each vegetation community type and the location of the Eucalyptus stands explained above. 10 A few common wildlife species were observed during the initial field survey and are detailed in Table 1 below: Table 1. List of Observed Wildlife Common Name Brush Rabbit California Pocket Mouse Scrub Jay Source: Myra L. Frank/Jones & Stokes, 2003. Scientific Name Sylvilagus bachmani Perognathus californicus Aphelocoma coerulescens Listed Species Potentially Occurring in the Project Area Coastal California Gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica californica) Federally Listed Threatened Species Critical Habitat Determination Status and Distribution On March 30, 1993, the coastal California gnatcatcher was designated as threatened within its entire range by the USFWS (58 FR 16742-16757) (USFWS 1993). It is a small, long-tailed member of the thrush family Muscicapidae with dark -gray above and grayish -white below plumage color. This birds natural range is restricted to coastal southern California and northwestern Baja California, Mexico, from Los Angeles County south to El Rosario at about 30 degrees north latitude. This species is a non -migratory bird. Habitat Requirements The coastal California gnatcatcher occurs almost exclusively in the coastal sage scrub plant community and is occasionally found in the chaparral. Critical habitat for this bird species has been determined by the USFWS (68 FR 20227-20312) (USFWS 2000). The proposed project site is contained within critical habitat (Unit 8) for the coastal California gnatcatcher. This unit includes a core gnatcatcher population and coastal sage scrub habitat. Life History The breeding season of the coastal California gnatcatcher extends from late February through July with the peak nesting season occurring from mid -March through mid -May. The clutch size of this bird averages four eggs and the incubation and nesting periods encompass about 14 and 16 days, respectively. Juveniles are dependent upon their parents for up to several months following departure from their nest and may disperse up to 9 miles from their natal territory. 11 Presence in the Project Impact Area No coastal California gnatcatchers were found during the initial field visit. The proposed project site contains a native chaparral community along the northern border of the parcel. However, gnatcatchers predominantly live in the coastal sage scrub and only occasionally in the chaparral. Therefore there is a low potential for the presence of coastal California gnatcatchers within the proposed project. Consultation with the USFWS and the CDFG may be required to discuss the necessity of the issuance of an incidental take permit or mitigation for loss of critical habitat for the gnatcatcher. Impacts to Coastal California Gnatcatcher With mitigation, no adverse impacts to critical habitat for the coastal California gnatcatcher or the continued existence of this species are anticipated with the implementation of this proposed project. Please refer to the Possible Mitigation section of this document. Lvon's Pentachaeta (Pentachaeta lyonia) Federally Listed Endangered Species State Listed Endangered Species Status and Distribution On January 29, 1997, the Lyon's pentachaeta was designated as endangered within its entire range by the USFWS (62 FR 4172-4183) (USFWS 1997). The CDFG listed this species as endangered in January 1990. This species is a 2.4- to 18.9-inch tall annual (i.e., lives only one season) in the aster family (Asteracceae). This plant's natural range is located around the Los Angeles Basin, CA. Mountains and hills that expose Mesozoic or older basement rocks and sedimentary and igneous rocks of the late Cretaceous to late Pleistocene age bound the lowland plains of the basin. The southern portion of the Transverse Ranges forms the northern and western boundary of the basin. The Santa Ana Mountains at the northern end of the Peninsular Ranges border the southern region of the basin. The altitudinal range of this plant is between 30 to 630 meters (CNPS 2001). Habitat Requirements The Lyon's pentachaeta occur in grassland, chaparral, or coastal sage scrub habitats surrounding the mountains of the Los Angeles Basin, CA. Life History This annual blooms in the late spring (March through August). Presence in the Project Impact Area 12 Lyon's pentachaeta was not found during the initial field visit. According to the CDFG, populations of Lyon's pentachaeta have not been seen on the Palos Verdes Peninsula for many years.1 Therefore, there is a low potential for the presence of Lyon's pentachaeta within the proposed project site. Impacts to Lyon's Pentachaeta No adverse impacts to Lyon's pentachaeta are anticipated with the implementation of this proposed project. Mohave Tui Chub (Gila bicolor mohavensis) Federally Listed Endangered Species State Listed Endangered Species Status and Distribution On October 13, 1970, the Mohave tui chub was designated as endangered within its entire range by the USFWS (35 FR 16047) (USFWS 1970). The CDFG listed this species as endangered in 1998. This species is a small fish rarely exceeding 6.7 inches with a stocky body and a large, slightly concave head and short rounded fins. This species is distributed primarily throughout the hydrographic Great Basin Region including the northern portion of the Mohave Desert. In 1970, 147 chubs were released into an artificial pond at the South Coast Botanical Garden in Palos Verdes. Habitat Requirements This fish species does not exhibit a wide range of tolerance to desert conditions seen in other desert fish. They can tolerate water temperatures between approximately 40 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit and can osmoregulate successfully in salinities of up to 897 mOsmigallon. Life History Mohave tui chubs initiate spawning in March or April when water temperatures approach 64 degrees Fahrenheit. Spawning occurs through the spring and involves groups of chubs releasing eggs over vegetation to which the eggs become attached. These eggs hatch in about 6 to 8 days. Hatchlings spend about 12 hours on the bottom and then swim to the surface. Young fish then form small schools in shallow areas of their habitat. Presence in the Project Impact Area The proposed project site does not contain significant water bodies (i.e., streams and ponds) to support a population of Mohave tui chub. Therefore, this species is not present within the proposed project site. ' Information found on the CDFG Habitat Conservation Planning Branch website (www.dfg.ca.gov/hcpb). 13 Impacts to Mohave Tui Chub No adverse impacts to the Mohave tui chub are anticipated with the implementation of this proposed project. Palos Verdes Blue Butterfly (Glaucopsyche lygdamus palosverdesensis) Federally Listed Endangered Species Critical Habitat Determination Status and Distribution On July 2, 1980, the Palos Verdes blue butterfly was designated as endangered within its entire range by the USFWS (45 FR 44939-44942) (USFWS 1980). This insect is a small blue butterfly of the family Lycaenidae. This endemic species is exclusively peninsular, restricted to the cool, fog -shrouded, seaward side of the Palos Verdes Hills, Los Angeles County, CA. It is most likely a non -migratory insect. Habitat Requirements The Palos Verdes blue butterfly is found in coastal sage scrub habitat where its larval foodplant, ocean locoweed (Astragalus thrichopodus var. lonchus) grows. More specifically, it is found on well -drained clay or gravelly, sometimes rocky, slopes of the coastal areas of the Palos Verdes Peninsula. Critical habitat has been determined for this insect species at three sites in the Palos Verdes Peninsula (45 FR 44939-44942). These three sites are as follows: 1. Agua Amarga Canyon Zone. Palos Verdes Estates. A square area of land 0.4 x 0.4 kilometers located at the southeast corner of the southernmost corporate boundary of Palos Verdes Estates. 2. Frank Hesse Park Zone. Rancho Palos Verdes. An area enclosed by Hawthorne Boulevard, Locklenna Lane, and Verde Drive. 3. Palos Verdes Drive Zone. Rancho Palos Verdes. The switchback area of Palos Verdes Drive east, bounded by a line connecting the two eastern curves, a line parallel to and 0.3 kilometers southwest of this line, and the upper and lower portions of Palos Verdes Drive East. The proposed project site is not contained within any of these critical habitat boundaries (see Figure 7, the California Natural Diversity Database Map). Life History Adult butterflies are diurnal (i.e., active day and night) and fly from early February until the end of March. During this flight season, oviposition (i.e., the depositing of eggs by insects) occurs on ocean locoweed. There is only one generation of Palos Verdes blue butterflies per year and adults are seldom numerous. Within about 7 to 10 days, the larvae emerge and feed on the sepals 14 and gynoecia of the ocean locoweed and eventually bore into the seed pods where they complete development foraging on seeds and dermal tissue of the pods. There are at least four larval instars (i.e., stages) and, in April, mature larvae crawl down to the plant base and pupate in the duff. Presence in the Project Impact Area Neither ocean locoweed nor the Palos Verdes blue butterfly was found during the initial field visit. Also, no coastal sage scrub habitat was found to be present within the proposed project site. Therefore, there is a low potential for the presence of Palos Verdes blue butterflies within the proposed project site. Impacts to Palos Verdes Blue Butterfly No adverse impacts to the Palos Verdes blue butterfly are anticipated with the implementation of this proposed project. Conclusion and Recommendations The proposed project has the potential to affect one federally listed species, the coastal California gnatcatcher. There is the potential that the direct loss of 0.10 to 0.25 acres of native chaparral of the Sumac series, due to grading, may result in the direct loss of gnatcatchers or active foraging and nesting areas for gnatcatchers. However, gnatcatchers forage and nest almost exclusively within the coastal sage scrub vegetation community and only sporadically within the chaparral vegetation community. Therefore, there is a low potential to directly affect gnatcatchers within the proposed project site. This author does not believe it is necessary to perform more exhaustive surveys for any of the species discussed within this document. This conclusion is due to the following reasoning: 1. Low potential for the presence of coastal California gnatcatchers onsite due to the lack of coastal sage scrub habitat; 2. Low potential for the presence of Lyon's pentachaeta communities onsite due to the lack of recent scientific observations of this species on the Palos Verdes Peninsula; 3. No potential for the presence of Mohave tui chubs onsite due to the lack of streams and other substantial waterbodies; and 4. Low potential for the presence of Palos Verdes blue butterflies onsite due to the lack of coastal sage scrub habitat. However, the USFWS and/or the CDFG may require more exhaustive surveys during the breeding season for the coastal California gnatcatcher and the Palos Verdes blue butterfly and/or during the blooming season for Lyon's pentachaeta. 15 With the implementation of recommended mitigation, the project would not jeopardize the continued existence of any of these species. Possible Mitigation Ms. Yolanta Schwartz of the Rolling Hills City Planning Department made a series of recommendations to mitigate for the loss of native habitats (i.e., approximately 0.10 to 0.25 acres of native chaparral of the Sumac series). The recommended measures are as follows: 1. Compensation for the loss of native chaparral habitat should be provided elsewhere within the private parcel. The City of Rolling Hills Planning Department recommends replacement/restoration of native habitat at a 1-to-1 ratio. 2. If ample area cannot be found on site to replace/restore native habitat, then the City Planning Department recommends removal of non-native (i.e., invasive) plants on the site. The area of removal of non -natives should be performed at a 1-to-1 ratio. In addition to the above potential mitigation measures, other possible mitigation is detailed below: 3. If ample area cannot be found on site to remove non-native plants, then it is recommended that the owners consult with the USFWS about the possibility of buying into a mitigation bank for coastal California gnatcatcher habitat. Two possible gnatcatcher mitigation banks are the Wilson Valley Mitigation Bank and the Wilson Creek Mitigation Bank located east of the City of Temecula, Riverside, County, CA and in the unincorporated area of Aguanga, Riverside County, CA, respectively. Contact the manager of both mitigation banks, Mr. Edward Stanton, at 909-301-5799 for information about cost, applicability, and availability. 4. Provide an on -site biologist to monitor construction activities, flag or move possible migratory bird and gnatcatcher nests and ocean locoweed communities, and educate construction crews about biological concerns. 5. Recommend thinning the chaparral community (i.e., Sumac series) that dominates the northern boundary of the proposed project site to reduce the danger of wildfires. Based on the above recommendations made by the City and the author, it is this author's biological opinion that the owners: 1) replace the direct loss of native chaparral (i.e., Sumac series) due to construction by replanting native chaparral in the ruderal portion along the southeastern edge of the parcel at a 1-to-1 ratio, 2) hire an on -site biologist to monitor construction during the nesting season for the coastal California gnatcatcher (late February through July) to avoid take of gnatcatchers, and 3) thin the chaparral community along the northern edge of the parcel to reduce the risk of a catastrophic wildfire. 16 1 ' List of Contacts Lee Lisecki Principal/Project Director/QA-QC MFA/JSA 811 West 7th Street, Suite 800 Los Angeles, CA 90274 Tel.: 213-627-5376 Fax: 213-627-6853 ' Steven Esselman Biologist/Environmental Planner MFA/JSA 811 West 7th Street, Suite 800 ULos Angeles, CA 90017 Tel.: 213-627-5376 U Fax: 213-627-6853 Yolanta Schwartz ' Planning Director Rolling Hills Planning Department 2 Portuguese Bend Road ' Rolling Hills, CA 90274 Tel.: 310-377-1521 Fax: 310-377-7288 tDouglas McHattie Civil Engineer ' Bolton Engineering Corp. 707 Silver Spur Road, Suite 201 Rolling Hills Estates, CA 90274 ' Tel.: 310-544-6010 Fax: 310-544-0458 ' Criss Gunderson Architect 2024 Via Pacheco ' Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274 Tel.: 310-373-8077 Fax: 310-373-8277 17 Cited References ' California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG). California Natural Diversity Database. Sacramento, CA: Wildlife and Habitat Analysis Branch, November 3, 2003. ' California Native Plant Society (CNPS). California Native Plant Society's Inventory of Rare and Endangered Plants in California. Sacramento, CA: CNPS, 2001. ' CNPS. California Native Plant Society Electronic Inventory. Sacramento, CA; CNPS, 2002. Hickman, J.C. The Jepson Manual: Higher Plants of California. Berkley, CA: University of California Press, 1996. Sawyer, J.O. and T. Keeler -Wolf. A Manual of California Vegetation. Sacramento, CA: ' California Native Plant Society, 1995. ' Walter, H. Vegetation of the Earth and Ecological Systems of the Geo-biosphere. Berlin, Germany: Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg, 1985. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE). Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual: Technical Report Y-87-1. Vicksburg, MS: Environmental Laboratory, 1987. ' U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). Appendix D — United States List of Endangered Native Fish and Wildlife. Washington, D.C.: Federal Register, October 13, 1970. USFWS. Listing the Palos Verdes Blue Butterfly as an Endangered Species With Critical Habitat (50 CFR Part 17). Washington, D.C.: Federal Register, July 2, 1980. USFWS. Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Determination of Threatened Status ' for the Coastal California Gnatcatcher (50 CFR Part 17). Washington, D.C.: Federal Register, March 30, 1993. ' USFWS. Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Determination of Endangered Status for Two Plants and Threatened Status for Four Plants From Southern California (50 CFR Part 17). Washington, D.C.: Federal Register, January 29, 1997. USFWS. Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Final Determination of Critical ' Habitat for the Coastal California Gnatcatcher; Final Rule (50 CFR Part 17). Washington, D.C.: Federal Register, October 24, 2000. ' Vankat, J. The Natural Vegetation of North America. Malabar, FL: Krieger Publishing Company, 1979. � 18 18 Pine Tree Lane, Rolling Hills, CA, 90274 FINAL Biological Assessment Prepared for: Austin and Czarina Su 18 Pine Tree Lane Rolling Hills, CA 90274 Prepared by: Steven Esselman Myra L. Frank S5`J ones & Stokes 811 W. 7th Street, Suite 800 Los Angeles, CA 90017 January 8, 2004 wJ JAN 1 4 2004 CITY OF ROLLING HILLS By 18 Pine Tree Lane, Rolling Hills, CA, 90274 Biological Assessment Table of Contents Summary of Findings and Conclusions 1 Impacts to Critical Habitat 1 Impacts to Federally Listed Species . 1 Summary of Possible Mitigation 1 Introduction . 2 Project Purpose 2 Project Location 2 Project Description .. 2 Study Methodology ..7 Personnel and Survey Effort 7 Environmental Setting . 7 Existing Level of Disturbance and Environmental Baseline 10 Listed Species Potentially Occurring in the Project Area .11 Coastal California Gnatcatcher .11 Lyon's Pentachaeta ..12 Mohave Tui Chub 13 Palos Verdes Blue Butterfly 14 Conclusions and Recommendations .15 Possible Mitigation ... 16 List of Contacts 17 Cited References ..18 Figures and Tables Figure 1. Project Vicinity Map 3 Figure 2. Project Location Map . 4 Figure 3. Western View of the Site from the Cu1-de-Sac 5 Figure 4. Southwestern View of the Site from the Eastern Portion of the Site 5 Figure 5. Northern View of the Site from the Central Interior of the Site .6 Figure 6. California Natural Diversity Database Map 8 Figure 7. Preliminary Vegetation Map for 18 Pine Tree Lane 9 Table 1. List of Observed Wildlife 11 ii 18 Pine Tree Lane, Rolling Hills, CA, 90274 Biological Assessment Summary of Findings and Conclusions Impacts to Critical Habitat Construction of a new home at 18 Pine Tree Lane, Rolling Hills, CA, 90274 would result in the loss of, and impact to, roughly 0.10 to 0.25 acres of potentially suitable habitat for the coastal California gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica californica) (i.e., chaparral habitat of the Sumac series). However, gnatcatchers nest and forage almost exclusively within the coastal sage scrub vegetation community and only sporadically within the chaparral vegetation community. Therefore, there is a low potential for direct impacts to gnatcatchers due to the loss of chaparral habitat. Impacts to Federally Listed Species Coastal California Gnatcatcher Construction of the new home may directly affect coastal California gnatcatchers. There is a low potential for the direct take of individuals and occupied habitat within the footprint of the proposed project and indirect impacts of construction noise and dust in the area adjacent to construction. The coastal California gnatcatcher is a federally listed Threatened species. Lyon's Pentachaeta Construction of the new home would not directly affect Lyon's pentachaeta communities. Mohave Tui Chub Construction of the new home would not directly affect Mohave tui chubs. Palos Verdes Blue Butterfly Construction of the new home would not directly affect Palos Verdes blue butterflies. Summary of Possible Mitigation Below is a summary of possible mitigation. See the Conclusion and Recommendations section of this document for a more thorough description of each possible mitigation measure: 1. Replacement/restoration of native chaparral habitat at a 1-to-1 ratio onsite; 2. Removal of non-native plants at a 1-to-1 ratio onsite; 3. Buy into a mitigation bank for the coastal California gnatcatcher; 1 4. Provide an onsite biologist to monitor construction activity; and/or 5. Recommend thinning the chaparral onsite to reduce risk of wildfires. Introduction This document describes the existing biological environment of the private parcel located at 18 Pine Tree Lane, Rolling Hills, California, 90272 and assesses the impacts of the proposed project on four federally listed endangered and threatened species. This Biological Assessment (BA) is prepared in accordance with the requirements of Section 9 (for individual projects) of the Federal Endangered Species Act (FESA) of 1973 (50 CFR Part 402) and California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG) Code 2080 as mandated by the California Endangered Species Act (CESA). The former involves consultation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and the latter with the CDFG. Preparation of this document is also required for consultation with the CDFG under the State's Native Plant Protection Act (NPPA) (CDFG Code 1900-1903). This proposed project might also fall under the jurisdiction of the Federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) if activities result in the removal or destruction of an active nest. Proiect Purpose The purpose of this proposed project is to build a new home for Mr. Austin Su and Mrs. Czarina Su at 18 Pine Tree Lane, Rolling Hills, CA, 90274. Proiect Location The proposed project is located on a private parcel at 18 Pine Tree Lane, Rolling Hills, CA, 90274. The total lot size is 123,710 square foot (sq. ft.) and is located at the northern terminus of Pine Tree Lane at the end of a cul-de-sac. Figures 1 and 2 are maps of the project vicinity and location, respectively. Figures 3, 4, and 5 are photos of the proposed project site taken by the author on the day of the field visit. Proiect Description The proposed project entails building a 7,214-sq.-ft. residence, a 1,253-sq.-ft. garage, a 700-sq.- ft. swimming pool, and, eventually, a 450-sq.-ft. stable on the private parcel. The total structures would occupy a total 9,713-sq.-ft. and the driveway would encompass 8,560 sq. ft. Grading of the new residence would require 4,600 cubic yards (cu. yds.) of cut and fill. The total building pad is 32,640 sq. ft. and grading would result in a total net lot disturbance of 39 percent. It is due to this significant disturbance and because the parcel is located within critical habitat for the coastal California gnatcatcher that the City of Rolling Hills has required a BA of 18 Pine Tree Lane. 2 Figure 1. Project Vicinity Map O0 5 10 20 Miles Sources: U.S. Census TIGER Data, 2000; Jones & Stokes Associates, 2003. i1 --i 3 Figure 2. Project Location Map --`,Roi\IIN LIS-ESTATES TTII UNINCORPORATED / • ,/ \\ / / P ( 7/ \ E I 1_101TA ROad_ / [ r : RANCHO PALOS VERDES\ PACipic uep,, 0 ' 44Angeles county county PACIFIC OCEAN I \ .7 Sources: U.S. Census Bureau TIGER Data, 2000; Jones & Stokes Associates, 2003. 0 0.25 0.5 1 Miles 1..1.1111 4 Figure 3. Western View of the Site from the Cu1-de-Sac Source: Myra L. Frank/Jones & Stokes, 2003 Figure 4. Southwestern View of the Site from the Eastern Portion of the Site Source: Myra L. Frank/Jones & Stokes, 2003 5 Figure 5. Northern View of the Site from the Central Interior of the Site Source: Myra L. Frank/Jones & Stokes, 2003 6 1 Study Methodology Literature searches were used to evaluate the environmental setting of the proposed project site and included: 1) searches of available literature about the region, 2) a search of the California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB) (CDFG 2003) within a 2-mile radius of the site, and 3) a search of the California Native Plant Society (CNPS) Electronic Inventory (CNPS 2002). These searches revealed the potential for four federally listed species to be present within the proposed project site. (refer to Figure 6, the CNDDB Map). Please note that south coast saltscale (Atriplex pacifica) was immediately removed from consideration due to the fact that this species requires alkaline flat habitat; alkaline flats are not present within the proposed project site. A biological field visit of the proposed project site (i.e., study area) was performed on December 3, 2003. A reconnaissance survey for the four federally listed species was performed at this time. The survey was conducted by walking the entire project site noting vegetation communities and dominant plant species. Visual and auditory observations of wildlife species were recorded. Incidental observations of other wildlife species or wildlife indicators (e.g., burrows, tracks, scat, rubs, etc.) were also noted. Photo -documentation of each community type was compiled for reference and for the documentation of future changes or improvements in habitat quality for the site. A delineation of wetlands was deemed not necessary at this time because the three indicators of wetlands: 1) wetland hydrology, 2) hydric (i.e., saturated) soils, and 3) hydrophytes (i.e., water - loving plants) (ACOE 1987) were not found to be present at the site. Personnel and Survey Effort The principal investigator for this BA is Steven Esselman of Myra L. Frank/Jones & Stokes (MFA/JSA). He is a staff biologist with MFA/JSA and is a certified wetland delineator. Mr. Esselman conducted an initial 1-day field survey on December 3, 2003 to search for direct and indirect evidence of the four federally listed species potentially occurring on the project site. The author wishes to stress that the survey performed is only an initial assessment and that more exhaustive surveys may be required. Environmental Setting The acreage surrounding the proposed project site falls into the California Floristic Province, ' Southwestern California Region, South Coast Subregion (CA -FP SW SCo) Geographic Subdivision of California and Climate Zones 22-24 (Hickman 1996). Coastal sage scrub and chaparral communities with many native species dominate this geographic subdivision and this climate range is generally considered Mediterranean, a climate dominated by winter rains with only sporadic frost and hot arid summers (Walter 1985). Figure 6. California Natural Diversity Database Map sources: California Department of Fish and Game's Caltfomla Natural Diversity Database, Nov. 2003; Jones & StokesAssociates, 2003. 0 0.5 1 2 Miles ICMCNIMENEMINIMINI Legend • 18 Pine Tree Lane f..,.12 Mile Buffer of 18 Pine Tree Lane Q Endangered n Threatened Proposed Endangered 1 1 Proposed Threatened n Candidate nSpecies of Concern nNot Threatened 1. Palos Verdes blue butterfly Glaucopsycha lygdamus palosverdesensls Fedi1st: 1 Cellist: 5 GRank: G5T1 SRank S1 2. Mohave tul chub Gila bicolor mohavenals Fedlist: 1 Cellist 1 GRank: G4T1 SRank S1 3. Coastal California gnatcatcher Poliopifla califomica califomlca Fedllst: 2 Cellist: 5 GRank: G3T2 SRank S2 4. South Coast saltscale Ahiplex paciflce Fedliat: 7 Cellist 5 GRank: G3T4 SRank: S2.2 5. Lyon's pentachaeta Pontachaeta lyonll Fedlist:1 Cellist: 1 GRank: G1 SRank S1.1 0 8 Figure 7. Preliminary Vegetation Map of 18 Pine Tree Lane aR.co.„•n,1 Legend Ruderal 1=.+ Sumac Series Eucalyptus Ornamental Area of Impact mom Preliminary Vegetation Map for 18 PlneTree Lane Source: Myra L.Frank/Jones & Stokes, 2004. Base map provided by Bolton Engineering, 2003. 9 The coastal sage scrub community is comprised of relatively low -growing, summer (dry -season) deciduous and succulent plants. Characteristic plants of this community include coastal sagebrush (Artemisia californica), various species of sage (Salix spp.), and California buckwheat (Eriogonum fasciculatum) (Walter 1985). The California chaparral community is comprised of plants that have adapted by conserving water through small, waxy leaves and through adaptations to deal with drought stress. The climate of the chaparral is generally hot and dry in the summers and rainy and mild in the winters. The most common species of the California chaparral are chamise (Adenostoma fasciculatum), the manzanitas (Arctostaphylos spp.), and various species of ceanothus (Ceanothus spp.) (Vankat 1979). The only native vegetation community found on the project site corresponds with Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf's (1995) Sumac series. This series is described as being dominated with laurel sumac (Malosma laurina) or lemonade berry (Rhus integrifolia) and may contain black sage (Salvia mellifera). Toyon (Heteromeles arbutifolia) may also be present in the canopy. Along the entire northern edge of the private parcel, a native chaparral community co -dominated with lemonade berry and toyon is present. Also present are one or several sage species, including black sage (see Figure 7, the Vegetation Community Map). This community type is also referred to as south mixed chaparral, mixed chaparral (coastal form), or, simply, mixed chaparral. A review of the U.S. Geological Survey Redondo Beach Quadrangle 7.5-minute topographic map revealed no "blue -line" streams within the proposed project site. Existing Level of Disturbance and Environmental Baseline The majority of the proposed project site at 18 Pine Tree Lane is highly disturbed with ruderal (i.e., weedy) plant species. The whole northern edge of the parcel is dominated by chaparral of the Sumac series (see above for definition). This particular chaparral community is very dense and overgrown with some individual shrubs reaching heights of 15 to 20 feet. Non-native ornamental trees, shrubs, and groundcover planted by the owner to stabilize the slope dominate the southwestern edge. Weedy grasses and herbaceous plants dominate most of the flat area in the central, eastern, and southeastern portions of the parcel. A few chaparral species have begun to encroach upon the edge of the weedy flat area. Eucalyptus trees (approximately 30 to 50 feet tall) are scattered in groupings throughout the parcel in the flat central area. Three of these trees in the center of the parcel are marked for removal to make way for the proposed house's footprint. Please refer to Figure 7, the Vegetation Community Map, for the approximate placement of each vegetation community type and the location of the Eucalyptus stands explained above. 10 A few common wildlife species were observed during the initial field survey and are detailed in Table 1 below: Table 1. List of Observed Wildlife Common Name Brush Rabbit California Pocket Mouse Scrub Jay Source: Myra L. Frank/Jones & Stokes, 2003. Scientific Name Sylvilagus bachmani Perognathus californicus Aphelocoma coerulescens Listed Species Potentially Occurring in the Project Area Coastal California Gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica californica) Federally Listed Threatened Species Critical Habitat Determination Status and Distribution On March 30, 1993, the coastal California gnatcatcher was designated as threatened within its entire range by the USFWS (58 FR 16742-16757) (USFWS 1993). It is a small, long-tailed member of the thrush family Muscicapidae with dark -gray above and grayish -white below plumage color. This birds natural range is restricted to coastal southern California and northwestern Baja California, Mexico, from Los Angeles County south to El Rosario at about 30 degrees north latitude. This species is a non -migratory bird. Habitat Requirements The coastal California gnatcatcher occurs almost exclusively in the coastal sage scrub plant community and is occasionally found in the chaparral. Critical habitat for this bird species has been determined by the USFWS (68 FR 20227-20312) (USFWS 2000). The proposed project site is contained within critical habitat (Unit 8) for the coastal California gnatcatcher. This unit includes a core gnatcatcher population and coastal sage scrub habitat. Life History The breeding season of the coastal California gnatcatcher extends from late February through July with the peak nesting season occurring from mid -March through mid -May. The clutch size of this bird averages four eggs and the incubation and nesting periods encompass about 14 and 16 days, respectively. Juveniles are dependent upon their parents for up to several months following departure from their nest and may disperse up to 9 miles from their natal territory. 11 Presence in the Project Impact Area No coastal California gnatcatchers were found during the initial field visit. The proposed project site contains a native chaparral community along the northern border of the parcel. However, gnatcatchers predominantly live in the coastal sage scrub and only occasionally in the chaparral. Therefore there is a low potential for the presence of coastal California gnatcatchers within the proposed project. Consultation with the USFWS and the CDFG may be required to discuss the necessity of the issuance of an incidental take permit or mitigation for loss of critical habitat for the gnatcatcher. Impacts to Coastal California Gnatcatcher With mitigation, no adverse impacts to critical habitat for the coastal California gnatcatcher or the continued existence of this species are anticipated with the implementation of this proposed project. Please refer to the Possible Mitigation section of this document. Lvon's Pentachaeta (Pentachaeta lyonia) Federally Listed Endangered Species State Listed Endangered Species Status and Distribution On January 29, 1997, the Lyon's pentachaeta was designated as endangered within its entire range by the USFWS (62 FR 4172-4183) (USFWS 1997). The CDFG listed this species as endangered in January 1990. This species is a 2.4- to 18.9-inch tall annual (i.e., lives only one season) in the aster family (Asteracceae). This plant's natural range is located around the Los Angeles Basin, CA. Mountains and hills that expose Mesozoic or older basement rocks and sedimentary and igneous rocks of the late Cretaceous to late Pleistocene age bound the lowland plains of the basin. The southern portion of the Transverse Ranges forms the northern and western boundary of the basin. The Santa Ana Mountains at the northern end of the Peninsular Ranges border the southern region of the basin. The altitudinal range of this plant is between 30 to 630 meters (CNPS 2001). Habitat Requirements The Lyon's pentachaeta occur in grassland, chaparral, or coastal sage scrub habitats surrounding the mountains of the Los Angeles Basin, CA. Life History This annual blooms in the late spring (March through August). 12 Presence in the Project Impact Area Lyon's pentachaeta was not found during the initial field visit. According to the CDFG, populations of Lyon's pentachaeta have not been seen on the Palos Verdes Peninsula for many years.1 Therefore, there is a low potential for the presence of Lyon's pentachaeta within the proposed project site. Impacts to Lyon's Pentachaeta No adverse impacts to Lyon's pentachaeta are anticipated with the implementation of this proposed project. Mohave Tui Chub (Gila bicolor mohavensis) Federally Listed Endangered Species State Listed Endangered Species Status and Distribution On October 13, 1970, the Mohave tui chub was designated as endangered within its entire range by the USFWS (35 FR 16047) (USFWS 1970). The CDFG listed this species as endangered in 1998. This species is a small fish rarely exceeding 6.7 inches with a stocky body and a large, slightly concave head and short rounded fins. This species is distributed primarily throughout the hydrographic Great Basin Region including the northern portion of the Mohave Desert. In 1970, 147 chubs were released into an artificial pond at the South Coast Botanical Garden in Palos Verdes. Habitat Requirements This fish species does not exhibit a wide range of tolerance to desert conditions seen in other desert fish. They can tolerate water temperatures between approximately 40 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit and can osmoregulate successfully in salinities of up to 897 mOsm/gallon. Life History Mohave tui chubs initiate spawning in March or April when water temperatures approach 64 degrees Fahrenheit. Spawning occurs through the spring and involves groups of chubs releasing eggs over vegetation to which the eggs become attached. These eggs hatch in about 6 to 8 days. Hatchlings spend about 12 hours on the bottom and then swim to the surface. Young fish then form small schools in shallow areas of their habitat. Presence in the Project Impact Area The proposed project site does not contain significant water bodies (i.e., streams and ponds) to support a population of Mohave tui chub. Therefore, this species is not present within the proposed project site. ' Information found on the CDFG Habitat Conservation Planning Branch website (www.dfg.ca.gov/hcpb). 13 Impacts to Mohave Tui Chub No adverse impacts to the Mohave tui chub are anticipated with the implementation of this proposed project. Palos Verdes Blue Butterfly (Glaucopsyche lygdamus palosverdesensis) Federally Listed Endangered Species Critical Habitat Determination Status and Distribution On July 2, 1980, the Palos Verdes blue butterfly was designated as endangered within its entire range by the USFWS (45 FR 44939-44942) (USFWS 1980). This insect is a small blue butterfly of the family Lycaenidae. This endemic species is exclusively peninsular, restricted to the cool, fog -shrouded, seaward side of the Palos Verdes Hills, Los Angeles County, CA. It is most likely a non -migratory insect. Habitat Requirements The Palos Verdes blue butterfly is found in coastal sage scrub habitat where its larval foodplant, ocean locoweed (Astragalus thrichopodus var. lonchus) grows. More specifically, it is found on well -drained clay or gravelly, sometimes rocky, slopes of the coastal areas of the Palos Verdes Peninsula. Critical habitat has been determined for this insect species at three sites in the Palos Verdes Peninsula (45 FR 44939-44942). These three sites are as follows: 1. Agua Amarga Canyon Zone. Palos Verdes Estates. A square area of land 0.4 x 0.4 kilometers located at the southeast corner of the southernmost corporate boundary of Palos Verdes Estates. 2. Frank Hesse Park Zone. Rancho Palos Verdes. An area enclosed by Hawthorne Boulevard, Locklenna Lane, and Verde Drive. 3. Palos Verdes Drive Zone. Rancho Palos Verdes. The switchback area of Palos Verdes Drive east, bounded by a line connecting the two eastern curves, a line parallel to and 0.3 kilometers southwest of this line, and the upper and lower portions of Palos Verdes Drive East. The proposed project site is not contained within any of these critical habitat boundaries (see Figure 7, the California Natural Diversity Database Map). Life History Adult butterflies are diurnal (i.e., active day and night) and fly from early February until the end of March. During this flight season, oviposition (i.e., the depositing of eggs by insects) occurs on ocean locoweed. There is only one generation of Palos Verdes blue butterflies per year and 14 adults are seldom numerous. Within about 7 to 10 days, the larvae emerge and feed on the sepals and gynoecia of the ocean locoweed and eventually bore into the seed pods where they complete development foraging on seeds and dermal tissue of the pods. There are at least four larval instars (i.e., stages) and, in April, mature larvae crawl down to the plant base and pupate in the duff. Presence in the Project Impact Area Neither ocean locoweed nor the Palos Verdes blue butterfly was found during the initial field visit. Also, no coastal sage scrub habitat was found to be present within the proposed project site. Therefore, there is a low potential for the presence of Palos Verdes blue butterflies within the proposed project site. Impacts to Palos Verdes Blue Butterfly No adverse impacts to the Palos Verdes blue butterfly are anticipated with the implementation of this proposed project. Conclusion and Recommendations The proposed project has the potential to affect one federally listed species, the coastal California gnatcatcher. There is the potential that the direct loss of 0.10 to 0.25 acres of native chaparral of the Sumac series, due to grading, may result in the direct loss of gnatcatchers or active foraging and nesting areas for gnatcatchers. However, gnatcatchers forage and nest almost exclusively within the coastal sage scrub vegetation community and only sporadically within the chaparral vegetation community. Therefore, there is a low potential to directly affect gnatcatchers within the proposed project site. This author does not believe it is necessary to perform more exhaustive surveys for any of the species discussed within this document. This conclusion is due to the following reasoning: 1. Low potential for the presence of coastal California gnatcatchers onsite due to the lack of coastal sage scrub habitat; 2. Low potential for the presence of Lyon's pentachaeta communities onsite due to the lack of recent scientific observations of this species on the Palos Verdes Peninsula; 3. No potential for the presence of Mohave tui chubs onsite due to the lack of streams and other substantial waterbodies; and 4. Low potential for the presence of Palos Verdes blue butterflies onsite due to the lack of coastal sage scrub habitat. However, the USFWS and/or the CDFG may require more exhaustive surveys during the breeding season for the coastal California gnatcatcher and the Palos Verdes blue butterfly and/or during the blooming season for Lyon's pentachaeta. 15 List of Contacts Lee Liseki Principal/Project Director/QA-QC MFA/JSA 811 West 7th Street, Suite 800 Los Angeles, CA 90274 Tel.: 213-627-5376 Fax: 213-627-6853 Steven Esselman Biologist/Environmental Planner MFA/JSA 811 West 7th Street, Suite 800 Los Angeles, CA 90017 Tel.: 213-627-5376 Fax: 213-627-6853 Yolanda Schwartz Principal Planner Rolling Hills Planning Department 2 Portuguese Bend Road Rolling Hills, CA 90274 Tel.: 310-377-1521 Fax: 310-377-7288 Douglas McHattie Civil Engineer Bolton Engineering Corp. 707 Silver Spur Road, Suite 201 Rolling Hills Estates, CA 90274 Tel.: 310-544-6010 Fax: 310-544-0458 Criss Gunderson Architect 2024 Via Pacheco Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274 Tel.: 310-373-8077 Fax: 310-373-8277 17 Cited References California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG). California Natural Diversity Database. Sacramento, CA: Wildlife and Habitat Analysis Branch, November 3, 2003. California Native Plant Society (CNPS). California Native Plant Society's Inventory of Rare and Endangered Plants in California. Sacramento, CA: CNPS, 2001. CNPS. California Native Plant Society Electronic Inventory. Sacramento, CA; CNPS, 2002. Hickman, J.C. The Jepson Manual: Higher Plants of California. Berkley, CA: University of California Press, 1996. Sawyer, J.O. and T. Keeler -Wolf. A Manual of California Vegetation. Sacramento, CA: California Native Plant Society, 1995. Walter, H. Vegetation of the Earth and Ecological Systems of the Geo-biosphere. Berlin, Germany: Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg, 1985. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE). Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual: Technical Report Y-87-1. Vicksburg, MS: Environmental Laboratory, 1987. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). Appendix D — United States List of Endangered Native Fish and Wildlife. Washington, D.C.: Federal Register, October 13, 1970. USFWS. Listing the Palos Verdes Blue Butterfly as an Endangered Species With Critical Habitat (50 CFR Part 17). Washington, D.C.: Federal Register, July 2, 1980. USFWS. Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Determination of Threatened Status for the Coastal California Gnatcatcher (50 CFR Part 17). Washington, D.C.: Federal Register, March 30, 1993. USFWS. Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Determination of Endangered Status for Two Plants and Threatened Status for Four Plants From Southern California (50 CFR Part 17). Washington, D.C.: Federal Register, January 29, 1997. USFWS. Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Final Determination of Critical Habitat for the Coastal California Gnatcatcher; Final Rule (50 CFR Part 17). Washington, D.C.: Federal Register, October 24, 2000. Vankat, J. The Natural Vegetation of North America. Malabar, FL: Krieger Publishing Company, 1979. 18 With the implementation of recommended mitigation, the project would not jeopardize the continued existence of any of these species. Possible Mitigation Ms. Yolanda Schwartz of the Rolling Hills City Planning Department made a series of recommendations to mitigate for the loss of native habitats (i.e., approximately 0.10 to 0.25 acres of native chaparral of the Sumac series). The recommended measures are as follows: 1. Compensation for the loss of native chaparral habitat should be provided elsewhere within the private parcel. The City of Rolling Hills Planning Department recommends replacement/restoration of native habitat at a 1-to-1 ratio. 2. If ample area cannot be found on site to replace/restore native habitat, then the City Planning Department recommends removal of non-native (i.e., invasive) plants on the site. The area of removal of non -natives should be performed at a 1-to-1 ratio. 3. If ample area cannot be found on site to remove non-native plants, then it is recommended that the owners consult with the USFWS about the possibility of buying into a mitigation bank for coastal California gnatcatcher habitat. Two possible gnatcatcher mitigation banks are the Wilson Valley Mitigation Bank and the Wilson Creek Mitigation Bank located east of the City of Temecula, Riverside, County, CA and in the unincorporated area of Aguanga, Riverside County, CA, respectively. Contact the manager of both mitigation banks, Mr. Edward Stanton, at 909-301-5799 for information about cost, applicability, and availability. 4. Provide an on -site biologist to monitor construction activities, flag or move possible migratory bird and gnatcatcher nests and ocean locoweed communities, and educate construction crews about biological concerns. 5. Recommend thinning the chaparral community (i.e., Sumac series) that dominates the northern boundary of the proposed project site to reduce the danger of wildfires. 16 3 1 1 i 1 1 t 1 t With the implementation of recommended mitigation, the project would not jeopardize the continued existence of any of these species. Possible Mitigation Ms. Yolanta Schwartz of the Rolling Hills City Planning Department made a series of recommendations to mitigate for the loss of native habitats (i.e., approximately 0.10 to 0.25 acres of native chaparral of the Sumac series). The recommended measures arc as follows: 1. Compensation for the Loss of native chaparral habitat should be provided elsewhere within the private parcel. The City of Rolling Hills Planning Department recommends replacement/restoration of native habitat at a 1-to-1 ratio. 2. If ample area cannot be found on site to replace/restore native habitat, then the City Planning Department recommends removal of non-native (i.e., invasive) plants on the site. The area of removal of non -natives should be performed at a 1-to-1 ratio. In addition to the above potential mitigation measures, other possible mitigation is detailed below: 3. If ample arca cannot be found on site to remove non-native plants, then it is recommended that the owners consult with the USFWS about the possibility of buying into a mitigation bank for coastal California gnatcatcher habitat. Two possible gnatcatcher mitigation banks are the Wilson Valley Mitigation Bank and the Wilson Creek Mitigation Bank located east of the City of Temecula, Riverside, County, CA and in the unincorporated area of Aguanga, Riverside County, CA, respectively. Contact the manager of both mitigation banks, Mr. Edward Stanton, at 909-301-5799 for information about cost, applicability, and availability. 4. Provide an on -site biologist to monitor construction activities, flag or move possible migratory bird and gnatcatcher ncsts and ocean locoweed communities, and educate construction crews about biological concerns. 5. Recommend thinning the chaparral community (i.e., Sumac series) that dominates the northern boundary of the proposed project site to reduce the danger of wildfires. Based on the above recommendations made by the City and the author, it is this author's biological opinion that the owners: 1) replace the direct loss of native chaparral (i.e., Sumac series) due to construction by replanting native chaparral in the ruderal portion along the southeastern edge of the parcel at a 1-to-1 ratio, 2) hire an on -site biologist to monitor construction during the nesting season for the • coastal California gnatcatcher (late February through July) to avoid take of gnatcatchers, and 3) thin the chaparral community along the northern edge of the parcel to reduce the risk of a catastrophic wildfire. 16