Download Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains Reserve

Draft Reserve Management Plan for Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains RMU
Reserve Management Unit Plan
Reserve Management Unit 6:
Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains Conservation
Area
Table of Contents
1.0 Purpose
3
1.1 General Background
3
1.2 Reserve Management Unit Background
6
1.3 Current Management, Monitoring, and Public Access
6
2.0 Threats, Stressors, other Management Issues, and Recommended
Management Actions
10
2.1 Invasive Species
10
2.2 Threats to Hydrological Regime/Processes
16
2.3 Climate Change and Habitat Fragmentation
16
2.4 Fire Management
16
2.5 Other Management Issues
17
3.0 Processes and Structure for Management, Adaptive Management, and
Integration with Monitoring
19
4.0 Responsibilities for Implementation
25
4.1 Work Plan and Schedule
26
4.2 Personnel, Equipment, and Supplies
26
4.3 Law Enforcement
27
4.4 Program Cost Estimates
27
4.5 Funding for Implementation
27
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Draft Reserve Management Plan for Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains RMU
4.6 Partnership Opportunities
29
4.7 Data Storage and Analysis
29
4.8 Reporting
30
Figures
Page
Figure 1-1 Organizational structure and Decision-making Process for Monitoring
and Management
4
Figure 1-2 Responsibilities for Monitoring and Management
5
Figure 1-3 Santa Rosa San Jacinto RMU Boundaries
7
Figure 1-4 Ownership in the Santa Rosa San Jacinto RMU
8
Figure 1-5 Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument Boundary
9
Figure 3-1 Adaptive Management Conceptual Model
Appendices – separate document
Appendix I Current Monitoring and Management.
Appendix II 2012 Annual Work Plan.
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1.0 Purpose
The Coachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan/Natural Community
Conservation Plan (CVMSHCP) requires that the Coachella Valley Conservation Commission
(CVCC) ensures adequate management of locally (Permittee) managed Reserve Lands. This,
inturn, requires that CVCC, in coordination with the Reserve Management Unit Committees
(RMUC), prepares a Reserve Management Unit Plan (RMUP) for each Reserve Management
Unit (RMU) for review and approval by the Reserve Management Oversight Committee
(RMOC) to define specific management actions, schedules, and responsibilities. The RMUPs
are to be completed within 3 years of plan adoption. This RMUP fulfills this requirement for
the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains RMU, which is one of the 6 RMUs identified in the
CVMSHCP. An RMU may be comprised of just one of the Conservation Areas identified in the
CVMSHCP or of multiple Conservation Areas. RMU 6 consists solely of the Santa Rosa and
San Jacinto Mountains Conservation Area.
In addition to providing specific management actions, schedules, and responsibilities for
Permittee managed lands, the RMUP is intended to provide a framework for and to facilitate
the collaborative management by all the involved management entities (local, state and
federal agencies and non-profit organizations) to provide for effective, efficient, and
cooperative use of the combined resources available. While individual agencies remain
responsible for managing their lands, the premise of the RMUP is that maximizing
cooperation and coordination should result in the best management of all Reserve lands and
facilitate each entity’s management.
1.1 General Background
The CVMSHCP establishes a structure for coordinating management in the Reserve System
among the various entities involved through the establishment of an RMUC for each RMU.
The CVMSHCP also provides for CVCC to retain a Land Manager to ensure management of
the Permittees’ mitigation lands and coordination with the RMUC for each RMU, and with
the RMOC. Figures 1-1 and 1-2 show the relationship between the different managing
entities and their role in the management of the RMUs. Land Managers and interested
parties are referred to the following sections of the CVMSHCP for information regarding the
identified topics:
Reserve Management Oversight Committee – Section 6.1.3
Reserve Management Unit Committees – Section 6.1.4
Land Manager – Section 6.1.5
Monitoring Program Administrator – Section 6.1.6
RMUP Requirements - Section 6.2
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Reserve System Management and Monitoring Program – Section 8.0
Figure 1-1: Organizational Structure & Decision Process for the Monitoring
and Management Programs
Coachella Valley
Conservation
Commission (CVCC
Monitoring
Program
Administrator
Reserve
Management
Oversight
Committee
(RMOC)
Land
Manager
Reserve
Management
Unit Committees
(6 RMUCS)
Independent
Scientific
Advisors
Trails
Management
Subcommittee
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Draft Reserve Management Plan for Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains RMU
Figure 1-2 Organizational Responsibilities for the Monitoring and Management Program
Provide Technical and Biological
Expertise and Assistance to the
RMUs, MPA and CVCC
Prepare Annual Work
Plan and Budget
Review and Give Input on Annual
Work Plan, Budget and Reports
Prepare Reserve
Management Unit Plan
(RMUP)
Advise CVCC and Oversee
Implementation of
Management and
Monitoring Plans
Coachella Valley
Conservation
Commission (CVCC)
Review and
Approve
Annual Work
Plan, Budget
and Reports
Reserve Management
Oversight Committee
(RMOC)
Review and
Approve
Reserve
Management
Unit Plans
Manage Lands in
the RMU
Reserve Management
Unit Committee
(RMUC)
Coordinate with the Land
Manager, other RMUCs,
Independent Science
Advisors (ISA) and the MPA
Evaluate Monitoring
Program Data and Make
Adaptive Management
Recommendations to the
RMOC
5
Land Manager
Coordinate with
the RMUCs and the
MPA
Prepare and Submit
Annual Management
Report
Prepare Annual Work
Plan and Budget
Design, Carry Out
and Oversee the
Monitoring
Program
Monitoring
Program
Administrator
(MPA)
Coordinate with the
Land Manager,
RMOC, RMUCs, ISA,
and Other Entities
Prepare and Submit
Annual Monitoring
Report
Draft Reserve Management Plan for Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains RMU
1.2 Reserve Management Unit Background
Figure 1-3 depicts the location and boundaries of RMU 6. The Santa Rosa and San Jacinto
Mountains Conservation Area encompasses virtually all of the desert slopes of the Santa
Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains below the upper elevation limit of Peninsular bighorn sheep
habitat, as well as much of the higher elevation areas of the Santa Rosa Mountains where
there is known and potential habitat for the Grey Vireo. Indian Reservation lands in the
mountains are not subject to this plan. The Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians has
prepared a Tribal HCP on its reservation land, and efforts are being made to coordinate the
Tribal MSHCP with the Coachella Valley MSHCP/NCCP. This Conservation Area is linked to
the south with Anza Borrego Desert State Park and to the west with San Bernardino National
Forest areas and Mt. San Jacinto State Park. To the north, this Conservation Area is
contiguous with the Snow Creek/Windy Point Conservation Area, which includes two
Biological Corridors to the San Bernardino Mountains. The ownership in the RMU as of the
end of 2010 is depicted in Figure 1-4.
The Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Conservation Area is nearly conterminous with the Santa
Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument established in the year 2000, depicted
in Figure 1-5. As such, a majority of the land is in federal or state ownership which are
covered by various management plans. The CVCC owns and manages some lands within and
adjacent to the Conservation Area and facilitates coordination among various agencies for
the management and monitoring.
1.3 Current Management, Monitoring and Public Access (including
staffing level)
Coachella Valley Conservation Commission
The CVCC currently owns very little land in this RMU at the time this plan was approved,
thus, its primary responsibility under the CVMSHCP at this time is to serve a coordinating
role among the various landowners through regular meetings of the RMUC. In addition,
CVCC is responsible for coordinating its member Permittee lands for public access near the
urban boundaries. Several other entities own land for conservation purposes in this RMU
and actively manage it. The agencies within this RMU that currently conduct management,
monitoring and control public access are described in Appendix I.
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Draft Reserve Management Plan for Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains RMU
Figure 1-3 Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains Location and Boundaries
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Figure 1-4 Ownership Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains RMU-6
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Figure 1-5 Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument Boundary
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2.0 Threats, Stressors, Other Management Issues
There are a number of potential threats which could affect the Covered Species and natural
communities found in the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains Resource Management
Unit. The natural stochasticity (randomness) of weather events, long-term climatic trends,
and anthropogenic stresses can all have impacts. Section 8 of the CVMSHCP includes Threats
Models for a number of the community assemblages. These models list threats and impacts
of these threats to communities and species. Current and potential threats to the RMU and
preventative and coordinated response measures to those threats are discussed in detail
below.
2.1 Invasive Species
Invasive species occur in several natural communities within the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto
Mountains RMU, being most prevalent in riparian habitats. Invasive species put pressure on
the species, communities, and ecosystems of Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains RMU,
and in some cases they may pose a significant threat to them. They cause impacts through
competition, predation, or physical alteration of the environment, or a combination of these
and other factors.
Following are accounts of known invasive exotic species which occur or have the potential to
occur in the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains RMU.
Management Goal: Prevent the establishment of new infestations of invasive plants and
animals and reduce or eliminate current infestations.
Specific recommendations for preventative and coordinated response measures for
individual invasive species or similar groups of invasive species are given in the accounts
below. However, there are two general measures, applicable to all invasive species, which
can help prevent their introduction and establishment or their future spread if already
established. They are:
 Periodic surveys for new infestations of exotic species and their control if detected.
 Cleaning (or replacing when applicable) all equipment, gear, and supplies prior to
moving from one location to another during the conduct of management and
monitoring activities.
It is recommended that the Land Manager and the RMUC work together to develop a
coordinated program for the detection and control of new infestations of invasive species
and to develop standards for cleaning and handling equipment, gear and supplies to help
prevent the spread of invasive species.
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Draft Reserve Management Plan for Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains RMU
Invasive Plants
Goal: Prevent the establishment of new infestations of invasive plants and animals and
reduce or eliminate current infestations.
Actions:
1. Conduct ongoing surveys/inspections for new infestations of invasive plants, animals,
and pathogens (the frequency will need to be determined based on past experience and
current conditions). Surveys should focus on both previously undetected species and
new infestations of established species. Document infestations, including collecting a
standard set of data and submitting it for inclusion in a GIS database for the RMU and
the CVMSHCP area.
2. Document invasive species control efforts/treatments including collecting standardized
data and submitting it for entry in a GIS database for the RMU and the CVMSHCP area.
3. Salt cedar/tamarisk - Continue tamarisk control efforts throughout the RMU prioritizing
areas agreed upon by RMUC members; enter into agreements with private land owners
to remove tamarisk; re-treat re-growth in treated areas; re-vegetate in treated areas as
needed; consider prescribed fire management as an initial treatment in some.
Tamarisk/Salt Cedar (Tamarix spp.)
Introduced to North America as an ornamental shrub and windbreak in the 1800s, Tamarisk
is widespread in the Salt Creek watershed and other suitable habitat in Santa Rosa and San
Jacinto Mountains RMU. The deciduous species, Tamarix ramosissima, and T. chinensis and
T. parviflora, collectively known as salt cedar, are highly invasive. They can displace native
riparian trees such as mesquite, cottonwood and willows, and stands of mature trees can
effectively prevent the re-establishment of native species due to shading, elevated salinity,
and other possible factors such as changes to soil biota. Large dense stands of salt cedar may
consume more water than equivalent stands of native cottonwoods and other native
species, potentially causing ground water levels to drop and less surface water to be
available. Salt cedar may also promote more frequent and intense fire in some areas.
Another species of tamarisk, Tamarix aphylla, known as Athel Tamarisk is present to a lesser
extent in the RMU. While not as invasive, as salt cedar its effects on the environment,
where present, can be similar to those of salt cedar.
Preventative Measures
BLM, CDFG and the Forest Service are actively controlling salt cedar in various watersheds or
the RMU including Palm Canyon, Sheep Canyon, Dead Indian Canyon, and Cat Canyon.
Sahara Mustard (Brassica tournefortii)
First reported in North American in the Coachella Valley in 1927, Sahara mustard is now an
abundant annual weed at low elevations throughout southwestern deserts of North
America. It successfully competes with native annual forbs and grasses to the extent that
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Draft Reserve Management Plan for Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains RMU
there is very little growth and reproduction of native annuals in areas favorable to Sahara
mustard in years which it is abundant. In the past, Sahara mustard was typically only
abundant in the Coachella Valley during years of above average annual rainfall, allowing
native plants to recover in other years. In recent years, including spring 2010, Sahara
mustard has been abundant during years with average rainfall (Cameron Barrows, personal
communication). This trend is of concern to scientists and land managers, for if it continues,
large areas of the Coachella Valley could lose much of its native annual vegetation. The loss
of native annuals could have significant effects on herbivores, such as desert tortoise, by
reducing the amount and diversity of their food supply. A concomitant loss of native insects
which utilize native forbs and grasses could affect populations of lizard species, including the
Coachella Valley fringe-toed lizard, by reducing their food supply.
Sahara mustard also poses a threat to native ecosystems in several other ways. First, it has a
stabilizing effect on sand fields and sand dunes due to the dense cover it forms in abundant
years and to the slow deterioration of dead plants – they can persist, largely intact, for a
year or more. As a result Sahara mustard is affecting sand transport, an ecological process
important to the maintenance of active sand dunes habitat for the CVFTL and other rare and
endemic species. Second, Sahara mustard can form a continuous and dense fuel between
native shrubs and cactus, creating or increasing the potential for destructive wildfires.
Historically in the Coachella Valley, fire either did not occur in many areas or it occurred at a
much lower frequency and intensity. Native vegetation, not having evolved in the presence
of fire, can experience high mortality during wildfires and slow or no recovery. Type
conversion to Sahara mustard and associated non-native annuals, e.g., red brome and
common Mediterranean grass, can result. Lastly, Sahara mustard can form a physical or
visual barrier to wildlife. For example, it may be difficult if not impossible for juvenile
reptiles, such as desert tortoise, to move through dense stands of Sahara mustard, and
dense stands of Sahara mustard growing around burrowing owl burrows may prevent them
from having sufficient sight distance to spot and avoid predators.
Sahara mustard infestations have been located in limited areas of the RMU including Cat
Canyon. Selective hand pulling in priority areas such as active and stabilized sand dunes
could benefit natural communities and species. Early season applications of a non-specific
herbicide, glyphosate, may also be effective.
Preventative Measures
Annual inspections to locate and control new infestations and the selective treatment of
established infestations may help prevent the further spread of Sahara mustard in the RMU
and reduce its impacts to sensitive natural communities and species.
Coordinated Response Measures
The opportunity exists for the Land Manager and other RMUC members to work together to
identify, prioritize, and treat infestations of Sahara mustard in the RMU. This approach
would increase the effectiveness and efficiency of control efforts. A collaborative approach
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Draft Reserve Management Plan for Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains RMU
between the RMUC and the MPA to evaluate different treatment options could also help to
advance control efforts.
Fountain Grass (Pennisetum setaceum)
Pennisetum setaceum and Pennisetum setaceum 'rubrum'(cuprea) should not be used in the
landscape because of their rampant reseeding behavior. While 'rubrum' is not as invasive as
the parent species, landowners should not take the chance of becoming invasive. Once
either of these is established they can distribute their windborn seed throughout whole
neighborhoods, crowding out more desirable species and generating costly removal..
Good substitute clumping grasses are the native species Muhlenbergia rigens or Stipa
Speciosa. Neither are invasive and both are drought tolerant in the desert habitat, while still
showing attractive seed heads.
Cranesbill (Erodium circutarium), is native to Eurasia and has become widespread
throughout the United States. It is found mostly in disturbed soils, grasslands and
shrubland. While innocuous, it can use valuable resources such as moisture and nutrients
thus depriving the desirable native plants. Oenothera caespitosa, evening primrose, would
be a good substitute and is a good pollen source for night flyers such as bats. Blue gramma
grass, Boutelloua gracilis, would also work well.
Bromus species, Bromus rubrum, are grasses introduced to the United States as potential
cattle feed. It proved to be a paltry nutrient source and was disdained by the cattle. It then
spread aggressively replacing nutrient rich native grasses, and became a prime vector for
the spread of wildfire. It has proven costly to control and becomes an annual problem as it
dries out. The ''foxtail' seeds are also detrimental to animal life as the sharp seeds pierce
ears and intestines when accidentally ingested. Indian Rice Grass, Oryzopsis hymenoides,
would be a good substitute and provides nutritious as well as attractive seeds. Again
Boutelloua gracillis would work as well.
Mediterranean Grass, Schismus barbatum, is native to Eurasia and Africa and tends to
propagate itself in dry, open and generally disturbed areas. It will aggressively displace more
desirable native species. Boutelloua gracillis would be a good native substitute.
Buffelgrass (Pennisetum ciliare) is a drought-tolerant, warm-season, perennial grass which
reaches 1.5 feet in height and 3 feet in width. Inflorescences are fat brown to purplish. It is
similar in appearance to fountain grass. Buffelgrass is an invasive species in the Sonoran
Desert. Although it is drought tolerant, its spread into the Colorado Desert may be limited to
areas which receive significant monsoon rains. However, it is thought to have the potential
to become established in riparian areas of the Colorado Desert (USGS). Buffelgrass grows
densely and crowds out native plants of similar size. Competition for water can weaken and
kill larger desert plants. Its dense roots and ground shading prevent the germination of
native plant seeds. Until recently, there were no reports of buffelgrass in the Coachella
Valley; however, several specimens were recently discovered in Indio (USGS).
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Draft Reserve Management Plan for Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains RMU
Preventative and Coordinated Response Measures
It is recommended that the RMUC familiarize itself with the characteristics of this species
and that it be searched for and controlled, if found, as part of coordinated periodic surveys
for new infestations of invasive exotic plant species.
Invasive Aquatic Animals
Trout in Snow Creek and Tahquitz Creek
There are historical records of trout in Snow Creek. A survey was done in 1997 that
documented tree frogs in both forks and trout in the west fork only. There is a record from
1953 for mountain yellow legged frog in Snow Creek. In addition, there are trout in Tahquitz
Creek. CDFG staff are surveying in late July 2011 to assess the feasibility of removal.
Mosquito Fish (Gambusia spp.)
There is the possibility that mosquito fish used by the Coachella Valley Mosquito and Vector
Control District to control Mosquito larvae have made their way into some water sources.
Mosquito fish can compete with native larvaevores or prey on macro invertebrates.
Crayfish (Procambarus clarkia)
The presence/absence of Crayfish in this RMU is currently unknown
Coordinated Response Measures
Currently there are no ongoing efforts, except for Tahquitz Creek mentioned above, to
control invasive aquatic species in the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains RMU (BLM and
CDFG, personal communication). Future efforts will almost always involve a coordinated
response including the managing entity or entities, CDFG and the USFWS (to address listed
species issues), and the Monitoring Program Administrator (to develop and/or evaluate
monitoring protocols and to evaluate monitoring results).
The Report prepared by ICF, Invasive Species Management Options for Dos Palmas Area of
Critical Environmental Concern, lists a number of potential control techniques for invasive
aquatic species which could be implemented in RMU 6 including Water Management, a
control technique that alternatively inundates and desiccates habitat, trapping, and
pesticides. Each of these methods may have applicability for some species and
circumstances.
Trapping
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Draft Reserve Management Plan for Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains RMU
Due to the inability of most trapping techniques to secure juveniles, trapping would at best
control invasive species. However, by reducing predation and competition on native aquatic
species, including macroinvertebrates, trapping and/or fishing may benefit the aquatic
systems sufficiently to incorporate it into the ongoing management program.
It is recommended that one or more pilot trapping and/or fishing programs be implemented,
including a monitoring component to determine their effectiveness and feasibility.
Pesticides
The use of pesticides that would be effective against invasive fish would also kill native
fishes, mollusks and aquatic arthropods. However, in some cases, a targeted application of
pesticides might be effective. For example, pesticides might be used to treat small areas of
residual water from springs or seeps in an area which has otherwise been dewatered if other
methods, such as trapping, were not feasible.
It is recommended that the limited
application of pesticides be maintained as a potential management tool, but they only be
used when all other options have been determined to be infeasible and adequate
precautions have been taken to protect native species.
Invasive Terrestrial Animals
Feral Dogs and Cats
Domestic pets pose a potential threat to wildlife in the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto
Mountains RMU. For example, loose dogs and cats can impact burrowing owls by digging
out the nest and removing the chicks (Point Reyes Bird Observatory) and dogs can harm
tortoises or their burrows (USGS). While the occurrence of loose or feral domestic animals is
currently low in the RMU due to its overall remoteness, future development along its
boundaries could increase the level of this threat. Section 4 of the CVMSHCP includes Land
Use Adjacency Guidelines. Guideline 4.5.6 Barriers includes project design requirements
such as the incorporation of barriers in project designs to, among other things, minimize
domestic animal predation.
Preventative and Coordinated Response Measures
Monitoring of the existing and future affects associated with development along the urban
interface and identification of corrective measures should be the highest priority among
federal and non-federal partners in the RMUC. Specific actions agreed upon in annual
workplans will reflect this ongoing priority. RMUC will work with the CVCC and the
Permittees during the annual workplan process to ensure that Land Use Adjacency Guideline
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Draft Reserve Management Plan for Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains RMU
4.5.6, the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains Trails Plan, as well as the provisions in
Biological Opinion for BLM are followed and provide specific implementation measures
specific to, and coordinated with each document or provision. Additional recommendations,
such as providing homeowners with brochures about living adjacent to a reserve (including
information about pets), may also be appropriate.
2.2
Threats to Hydrological Regime/Processes
The RMUC members have agreed that natural and man-made water sources throughout the
Conservation Area should regularly, at least once in the summer months and once during
winter, be inventoried and monitored using a standard protocol (Bighorn Institute protocol
recommended).
2.3 Climate Change and Habitat Fragmentation
Climate change is an issue for the entire Colorado Desert, including the Coachella Valley.
Trends and predictions indicate that the area is gradually becoming more arid. The ability to
move north to higher latitudes or up in elevation in response to this change will be essential
for many species’ prospects for persistence over time. In the Coachella Valley, areas in the
northwest end of the Valley are cooler and wetter due to coastal influences in the Banning
Pass area. Thus the ability of species, especially Bighorn Sheep in this RMU, to move
northwest will be important. This need is being borne out by changes in the distribution of
some species in response to recent climate change, including the Coachella Valley Jerusalem
cricket (Cameron Barrows, personal communication).
Preventative and Coordinated Response Measures
Providing for the movement of wildlife northward or to higher elevation and the acquisition
and management of alluvial ran/high elevation corridors are two primary means of
addressing the effects of climate change in the RMU.
2.4 Fire Management
BLM’s CDCA CV Plan includes a fire management strategy addressing suppression and presuppression that was developed in response to issues regarding the protection and
management of habitats. BLM and Forest Service have interagency fire management plans
affecting the RMU. Forest Service has Direct Protection Area responsibility for lands within
the Monument north/west of Highway 74. BLM has Direct Protection Area responsibility for
Monument lands south/east of Highway 74.
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Draft Reserve Management Plan for Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains RMU
A priority task in the annual workplans of the RMUC should be to review current fire
management plans and strategies that are already in place. To the extent necessary, current
plans should be considered for revision to reflect goals and objectives of protecting Covered
species of MSHCP.
Goal: Prevent damaging wildfires and use prescribed fire as a tool if it will benefit conserved
natural communities and species.
Actions:
1. Develop and implement pre-suppression measures in areas subject to repeated wildfires.
2. Provide fire suppression agencies with maps and other information (including the Fire
Management Plan when completed) prior to and during wildfire incidents.
3. Provide training for the CVCC land manager and other land management personnel in
the Incident Command System.
4. Participate in the development and implementation of post fire rehabilitation plans.
5. Assess the potential for using prescribed fire as a tool to control exotic species and/or
revitalize marsh habitat. Utilize it as a management tool if an assessment determines
that one or more applications are beneficial and feasible.
2.5 Other Management Issues
Off-highway Vehicle Trespass
Illegal off-highway vehicle (OHV) use occurs at various locations throughout the CVMSHCP
area including the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains RMU. The managing agencies
report several discrete locations in the RMU where unauthorized OHV use is a problem.
Preventative and Coordinated Response Measures
Fencing and/or barricades, outreach, signing, and law enforcement are the primary means of
preventing and controlling OHV access. The BLM and CDFG have erected fences and posted
signs as control measures. Strategically placed directional and regulatory signs could help
prevent both unintentional and intentional off-road travel. Coordination between the
various law enforcement entities, e.g., among CDPR, BLM, and the OHV task force, has
proven effective in addressing the OHV issue and should continue. The action plan in
Appendix II addresses site-specific measures for OHV impacts.
Urban Development
Additional development adjacent to or within the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains
RMU result in indirect environmental effects. Commonly referred to as edge effects, they
may include noise, lighting, drainage, intrusion of people, and the introduction of non-native
plants and non-native predators such as dogs and cats. Another edge effect with respect to
the SRSJM RMU is the attraction of non-native vegetation to Peninsular bighorn sheep,
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Draft Reserve Management Plan for Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains RMU
“luring” them off the RMU into unhealthy circumstances—ingestion of grasses with
parasites, temporary abandonment by ewes of lambs thereby subjecting them to predation,
entanglement in fences. The current level of development along the edges and within this
RMU create an ongoing challenge for protected species and should be treated as a high
priority in all future annual workplans.
Preventative Measures
The most effective measure to prevent future development within the RMU is to acquire
private non-conservation lands within it, with an emphasis on those which protect Covered
Species and communities, and preserve habitat linkages and ecological processes. Specific
conservation objectives for land acquisition within the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto
Mountains RMU are outlined in Section 4 of the CVMSHCP.
Coordinated Response Measures
The CVMSHCP includes Land Use Adjacency Guidelines. It is recommended that the Land
Manager and the other RMUC members work with the CVCC to ensure that future
development proposals adhere to the Land Use Adjacency Guidelines and, when
appropriate, make specific recommendations for measures and actions related to them.
The RMUC or a subset of its members may also want to coordinate on the construction and
maintenance of boundary fencing and/or signing to address edge effects.
Dumping and Hazardous Materials
Dumping does occasionally occur in some areas in the RMU, primarily along the urban
interfaces and more rural alluvial fan portions.
Preventative and Coordinated Response Measures
Recommended measures to prevent and respond to dumping include the strategic
placement of fencing and barricades, signing, and communication between and within
agencies about dumping issues, including communication between law enforcement
personnel and Riverside County Code Enforcement. Periodic cleanup events involving
volunteers from the local community could also help to prevent dumping and to build a local
constituency in support of the RMU.
For hazardous material spills, it is recommended that the Land Manager, the reserve
managers, and law enforcement personnel work with the County of Riverside Hazardous
Materials Response (HAZMAT) Team to plan for incidents involving hazardous materials. The
HAZMAT team possesses the necessary technical expertise and capability to mitigate
hazardous spill emergencies. It is also recommended that the Land Manager and other
personnel attend appropriate HAZMAT training if available.
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Power and Gas Lines
Preventative and Coordinated Response Measures
It is recommended that the RMUC work cooperatively with the relevant utility companies to
develop a plan for addressing the threats posed by power lines and gas lines and to educate
them, if needed, about the Conservation Goals and Objectives of the CVMSHCP. Measures
to avoid and mitigate potential impacts from power and gas lines may include:
 Modifying fuels under the power lines to reduce the potential for wildfire.
 Modifying the power poles to discourage raptors from perching.
 Identifying sensitive resources, if any, under (or in the case of the gas line, on top of)
the utility lines and coming up with a plan to avoid, minimize, and mitigate impacts to
them during maintenance and repairs.
 Providing all personnel with the names of the relevant utility companies and their
contact numbers in the event a problem, such as a gas leak or downed or arcing
power line/transformer, is detected.
3.0 Processes and Structure for Management,
Management, and Integration with Monitoring
Adaptive
Section 8 of the CVMSHCP describes general ongoing management actions that will be
needed.
For the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains RMU/Conservation Area, the actions that may
be relevant include:
1. Control of non-native or invasive species, primarily the continuation of tamarisk removal
and monitoring
2. Control of other invasive species that may adversely impact Covered Species or natural
communities.
3. To the extent activities are under Plan authority, maintain water levels, water quality,
and proper functioning condition of seeps, springs, manmade water sources and
wetlands.
4. Restrict human access to unoccupied habitat during the sensitive periods for Covered
species, namely bighorn sheep, and during the breeding and nesting season for other
species.
5. Ensure the compatibility of activities, and any restrictions on those activities, allowed
within Conservation Areas with the conservation of species, habitats, natural
communities, and their associated ecological functions.
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Draft Reserve Management Plan for Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains RMU
6. Control of habitat disturbance from heavy public use areas or vehicle trespass by
installation of signage, fencing, and gates; patrolling; law enforcement; installation of
barriers.
7. Conserved populations of Covered Species shall be protected from edge effects, from
urban areas, and from any activities that may result in disturbance to them, to the
greatest extent feasible.
8. Prevention of habitat disturbance from unauthorized dumping, including removal of nonorganic debris and installation of barriers, gates, and fences.
9. Maintain and manage wetland, seep, spring and manmade water sources, which provide
habitat and water availability for riparian species and other Covered Species on Reserve
Lands.
10. Only utilize pesticides or other toxic chemicals when absolutely necessary to carryout
management actions identified in the Management Plans or as part of an Adaptive
Management action.
11. Prevent poaching or illegal collection of Covered Species and other desert organisms
including reptile and cactus species.
Proposed Management Actions and Prioritization
Following is a list of proposed management actions for the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto
Mountains RMU. Specific management goals, actions, and priorities 1, including thresholds
for success, will be determined each year and listed by agency and entity in the Annual Work
Plan. The outcome of each planned action will be reported in the Annual Report for the
RMU.
While the management plan is intended to be comprehensive for the RMU, it is recognized
that each participating agency and entity will be responsible for its implementation on the
Reserve Lands which they manage. As such, implementation will be affected by each
agency’s and entity’s mission, mandates (as defined by applicable regulations, land use plans
and other documents), and the amount of resources, i.e., staffing and funding, they have
available.
Implementation of a comprehensive plan for the entire RMU will provide an opportunity to
reinforce and build upon the existing close coordination and cooperation in management of
the reserve lands within the RMU.
As additional Conservation Lands are acquired, management of these lands will be
integrated with the management of Existing Conservation Lands.
Habitat Restoration and Enhancement
The number and prioritization of management actions will change over time as a result of changing
conditions, so it is recommended that specific priorities be set each year in the Annual Work Plan. To ensure
the success of projects, the Annual Work Plan should identify and commit staffing and funding to (to the extent
possible) those projects which will require multi-year funding to complete, including initial and follow-up
actions.
1
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Draft Reserve Management Plan for Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains RMU
Goal: Restore and enhance natural communities/habitats as needed to counter the effects
of past disturbance and loss and to provide for the conservation of Covered Species.
Actions:
1. Re-vegetate areas where exotic vegetation has been removed when natural regeneration of native vegetation is not sufficient to provide the desired composition and
cover.
2. Create new habitat where appropriate and/or required.
3. Remove interior fences to facilitate wildlife access and movement.
4. Modify existing fences, where needed, to provide for the movement of wildlife.
5. Evaluate the potential use of prescribed fire (including efficacy and feasibility) as a tool
to periodically revitalize chaparral habitats.
Maintenance of Ecological Processes
Goal: Maintain ecological processes to support Natural Communities
Actions:
1. Identify impacted natural processes (e.g., hydrology, erosion, vegetation succession) and
potential remediation needs/options.
2. Develop and implement remediation measures.
Managing Public Use and Access and Resource Protection
Public access is covered extensively in Section 7 of the MSHCP and should be directly
referred to for more specific and complex management and planning decisions. Listed
below are general goals and actions that can be used as a general guide.
Goal: Provide for public use in a manner which is consistent with the conservation goals and
objectives of the Coachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan.
Actions:
1. Post and maintain boundary/regulation signs at key locations along property lines
including pedestrian and vehicle access points.
2. Install and maintain directional and regulatory signs as needed on access roads to assist
visitors and reduce off-road vehicle travel.
3. Install additional visitor information kiosks and interpretive panels at trailheads and
access points where needed.
4. Install and maintain perimeter fences and gates where needed, to prevent unauthorized
vehicle use, dumping, and other activities which can result in wildlife mortality and
habitat degradation.
5. Inventory access roads and, where feasible, re-route and/or close those which are
redundant and/or causing significant resource impacts.
6.
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Draft Reserve Management Plan for Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains RMU
Existing public uses at Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains RMU include hiking, camping
photography, bird watching, picnicking, and similar activities. Hunting is allowed in some
areas. Vehicles are permitted on some dirt roads approved for motorized-vehicle use.
Coordination with the Monitoring Program Including Adaptive
Management
Linking the Monitoring Program with Adaptive Management actions will inform reserve
managers of the status of Covered Species, natural communities, and Essential Ecological
Processes, as well as the effectiveness of management actions, in a manner that provides
data to allow informed management actions and decisions.
The Monitoring Program Administrator (MPA) is responsible for coordinating with reserve
managers to facilitate the exchange of Monitoring Program data. Likewise, the Land
Manager has the responsibility to facilitate the exchange of information regarding all
completed and proposed management and Adaptive Management actions. For the Santa
Rosa and San Jacinto RMU, the key monitoring objectives are shown in Appendix I.
Facilitating Adaptive Management is a primary reason for coordination between the
monitoring and management programs. The essence of Adaptive Management is the
integration of design, management, and monitoring to test assumptions systematically in
order to adapt and learn. An active Adaptive Management strategy utilizes an experimental
approach to address the need for new knowledge about the nature of a threat, or the affect
of a variable, or a new active management strategy or to reduce uncertainty about an
ecological question.
New and modified management actions will periodically be necessary as indicated by the
results of the Monitoring Program in regard to unanticipated changes in the needs of
species, natural communities, and ecological processes. They will also be necessary in
response to information from the monitoring program about the effectiveness of current
management techniques and actions. The Adaptive Management Conceptual Model from
Section 8-5 of the CVMSHCP is shown in Figure 3.1 below. It illustrates the Adaptive
Management process.
The initial focus of the Monitoring Program is on developing monitoring protocols for the
natural communities and Covered Species, conducting baseline surveys of desert wetlands
communities and species, and completing surveys and a model and monitoring protocol for
the burrowing owl. As of December 2009, current or scheduled monitoring activities at the
Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains RMU undertaken by the CVCC monitoring team,
(University of California Riverside Center for Conservation Biology (UCR CCB) and ICF/Jones
& Stokes), include development of “Draft Monitoring Protocols for the Desert Wetland
Communities and Covered Species” and a draft report on “Invasive Species Management
Options for the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains Area”
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Draft Reserve Management Plan for Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains RMU
Goal: Provide for an ongoing, dynamic system of information gathering and exchange
between the MPA, the RMUC (the Land Manager and Reserve Managers) and the Evaluation
Committee that facilitates close coordination between the Management and Monitoring
programs, including the identification, implementation, and evaluation of Adaptive
Management Measures.
Actions:
1. The Land Manager, the other Reserve Managers and the MPA will work with the RMOC
to establish a working group composed of land managers and scientists to evaluate the
efficacy of current and Adaptive Management actions and associated experiments; both
those which are proposed and those which have implemented.
2. The MPA, Land Manager and the Reserve Managers will meet annually to discuss the
results of the Annual Monitoring and Management reports. Based on the results they
will:
 Identify a list of needed Adaptive Management actions, experiments to test
alternative responses, and associated monitoring needs.
 Identify current research needs and make recommendations for their
implementation.
 Evaluate current Adaptive Management measures for further use or modification.
 Develop a list of Adaptive Management recommendations for the Annual
Management and Monitoring Work Plans.
 Review the Threats Models and make recommendations for their updating.
3. The evaluation working group will review the recommendations of the MPA and RMUC
for Adaptive Management, research, and updates to the Threats Models. They will give
feedback to the MPA and the full RMUC.
4. Incorporating the input of the Evaluation Subcommittee, the RMUC and MPA will finalize
their Adaptive Management recommendations and submit them to the RMOC for review
and approval.
5. The Land Manager will communicate at least quarterly with the MPA and the Reserve
Managers and the Evaluation Committee to ensure that information is being exchanged,
and that recommendations for Adaptive Management actions are included in the Annual
Work and are being implemented.
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Draft Reserve Management Plan for Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains RMU
Figure3.1 : Adaptive Management Conceptual Model
Provide
relevant
data to
decision
makers
and the
public
Develop hypotheses and
predictions concerning
the impacts of identified
stressors or
management options on
Covered species, natural
communities, or
ecological processes
Develop Ecological
models based on
current best
available science.
Update models as
new information
is available
No
State Goals;
Determine if
Conservation Goals
and Objectives are
met
Synthesize current
best available science
and incorporate
scientific principles
No techniques
exist for managing
a given threat
If Goals are not
met Adaptive
Management is
warranted
Techniques exist
for managing
threats
Analyze and
interpret
data
Collect data
Develop
hypotheses
for the
development
of new
management
techniques
Develop
sampling
protocols and
experimental
designs
Implement
management
Independent Scientific Advisors
Per Section 8 of the CVMSHCP, as needed, or every 5 years, the RMOC may empanel a group
of Independent Science Advisors (ISAs), which will, in coordination with the MPA, provide
scientific expertise and recommendations on specific reserve management and monitoring
issues. This process will help to ensure that the best available scientific information and
methods are employed in the Monitoring and Management programs, including Adaptive
Management.
Ongoing and Needed Research
The CVMSHCP provides for a research component that will be funded and implemented by
the Permittees. Research needs will evolve over time and will be identified by the same
process used to evaluate monitoring and management protocols and results. See Section
5.3 above for the process.
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Draft Reserve Management Plan for Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains RMU
Priority research needs identified by RMUC members include those listed below. Proposals
that address these identified research needs should be developed and ready for
opportunities where funding becomes available.
1. Trails plan research focusing on population level effects of recreation on Peninsular
bighorn sheep
2. Urgent need to know encroachment of non native Cape Ricegrass, Stipa capensis
currently invading from a new stage. Found in Chino Canyon, along hwy 111, Windy
Point and Snow Creek. It has extremely sharp seed points that can harm wildlifepenetrate foot.
2. Distribution of invasive Fountain Grass and proposal to remove it.
3. bird (esp songbird) migration patterns along foothills of Santa Rosa and San Jacinto
Mountains
4. Monitoring of cowbirds in riparian areas and plans for removal
5. bighorn sheep status in the monument, with added emphasis in the San Jacinto
population
6. biodiversity study - useful - wise, this is a biggie! Could simply expand on Phillip
Unitt's work since he is covering plants, vertebrates and invertebrates.
7. Soil studies especially pertaining to watershed factors
8. Follow up of 2004/2005 UC Riverside inventory and plotted bird species of concern
listed in the CVHCP for contribution to trend analysis
Related Management Needs
Management needs related to public access and use include law enforcement, public
education and interpretation, and facility maintenance.
4.0 Responsibilities for Implementation
The CVCC, its Land Manager, and the other Reserve Management Unit Committee members
(reserve managers) are responsible for the implementation of the Reserve Management
Unit Plan. This commitment to collaboratively manage Reserve Lands pursuant to the
CVMSHCP is articulated in the Planning Agreement for the CVMSHCP, the CVMSHCP, and in
the Implementing Agreement. Specific responsibilities and commitments for each year will
be articulated in the Annual Work Plan.
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Draft Reserve Management Plan for Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains RMU
4.1 Work Plan and Schedule
The Land Manager, in coordination with the RMUC, will prepare an Annual Work Plan to be
reviewed and commented on by the RMOC, and then submitted to the CVCC for budget
approval. The Annual Work Plan will specify CVCC’s responsibilities and identify anticipated
actions by other RMUC member entities. Appendix I contains an Annual Work Plan for
calendar year 2012. This and future Annual Work Plans will describe the proposed
management prescriptions, a work schedule for management actions, and a budget.
4.2 Personnel, Equipment and Supplies
Each of the RMUP members is expected to provide personnel, equipment and supplies, as
agency budgets and other priorities allow for allocation, to implement the management
actions identified in the Reserve Management Unit Plan. The specific contribution of each
member will be delineated in the Annual Work Plan.
Coachella Valley Conservation Commission
The CVMSHCP Management Program Budget identifies the following personnel and
categories of equipment and supplies:
Personnel (for the entire Reserve System)
 Reserve Land Manager
 Assistant Reserve Manager (4)
 Ranger-Warden (2)
 Field Crew Labor (contract)
 Administrative Assistant (0.25-0.5)
Equipment and Supplies
 Site Protection and Maintenance
 Habitat Maintenance and Restoration
 Field Equipment and Supplies
 Office Equipment
A line item budget amount is associated with each position and with each equipment and
supply category. Initially, only one Assistant Reserve Manager is funded, with the additional
three positions phased in over time.
A portion of the CVCC staff, equipment, and supply resources will be dedicated to the Santa
Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains Resource Management Unit. This will occur as the CVCC
acquires Conservation Lands in the RMU and/or if it becomes a partner in one or more
cooperative management efforts. The amount of CVCC staffing, equipment, and supplies
necessary to implement the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains RMUP will be
determined over time as lands are acquired and partnership opportunities become available.
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Draft Reserve Management Plan for Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains RMU
Other Agencies and Entities
Current staffing levels for BLM, CDFG, CDPR and CNLM are described in Section 2.3 of this
document.
These staffing levels are expected to vary over time depending on the
management needs of the plan and the ability of each agency and entity to contribute to
meeting them.
See figure 7-5 for a three management cost estimate for the RMU. It includes personnel
equipment, and supply estimates for each management action.
4.3 Law Enforcement
Four agencies with land management responsibilities in the RMU have law enforcement
personnel: USFS, BLM, CDPR and CDFG. In addition, the Riverside County Sheriff and Code
Enforcement have jurisdiction over private lands. The law enforcement capability of the
three agencies in the RMU varies.
As stated above, the CVMSHCP provides for the funding of two ranger/warden positions. It
is anticipated that a portion of their time will be dedicated to patrolling the Santa Rosa and
San Jacinto Mountains RMU in coordination with other agencies with law enforcement
responsibilities in the area.
See Appendix I for management cost estimate for the RMU.
4.4 Program Cost Estimates
An accurate determination of the program costs for the life of the plan is not possible due to
unknown factors, including the ultimate acreage and composition of the Reserve Lands
which will be managed by the CVCC and its partners, and to uncertainties concerning future
conditions, e.g., the number and extent of threats and stressors. A cost estimate of near
term costs, those expected in the next year, can be found in Appendix I. This portion of the
plan will be reviewed and revised by the RMUC every year to reflect current management
needs and costs.
4.5 Funding for Implementation
CVCC Reserve Lands
The Permittees (CVCC) will fund the annual costs for the Monitoring and Management
Program, and Adaptive Management for the 75-year term of the Permits. During the 75-year
term of the Permits, an endowment will be established to fund the Monitoring Program, the
Management Program, and Adaptive Management in perpetuity. Funding sources for
CVCC’s obligations include but are not limited to:
 Local Development Mitigation Fees
 Fees on the importation of waste into landfills in Riverside County
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Draft Reserve Management Plan for Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains RMU
 Transportation project mitigation
 Mitigation for regional infrastructure projects
 Eagle Mountain Landfill Environmental Mitigation Trust Fund 2
Table 5-3b in Section 5 of the CVMSHCP provides revenue and expenditure projections for
the 75 year life of the plan. Due to the recent economic downturn, funding amounts for
monitoring and management are less than projected.
Other Conservation Lands
As stated in Section 7.1, the CVCC through the Land Manager and the reserve managers, i.e.,
BLM, CDFG, CDPR and CNLM have agreed to cooperatively manage the Santa Rosa and San
Jacinto Mountains RMU consistent with the Conservation Goals and Objectives of the
CVMSHCP. A cooperative and collaborative approach will result in greater management
efficiency by eliminating redundancy and providing the opportunity to pool resources. It will
also create funding opportunities through the grant application process that might not
otherwise be available, e.g. grant funds which are targeted to Natural Communities
Conservation Planning areas.
As part of their annual budgeting process, the Reserve managers will coordinate with the
Land Manager to identify management funding needs and responsibilities for the coming
year. They will use this information to make their respective annual funding requests. Their
annual management budget for the RMU and the associated goals, outcomes, and targets,
will be included in the Annual Work Plan.
The three year management cost estimate and subsequent revisions will also be used to help
obtain funding for implementation by providing information which can be used in advance
budget planning and the preparation of competitive grant applications.
Grants
A number of grant opportunities are available which could potentially provide management
funding. They include:









Wildlife Conservation Board Grants
Cal-Fire Vegetation Management Grants
California Recreational Trails Program Grants
California Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Division Grants
California Department of Agriculture Grants
CDPR (State Parks) Stewardship Grants (Internal to CDPR)
North American Wetlands Conservation Act Grants
National Landscape Conservation System research grants
National Fish and Wildlife Foundation Grants3
The Eagle Mountain Landfill was expected to provide a significant source of management funds; however, the
landfill project may not occur, in which case CVCC will have to identify or develop replacement funding sources.
3
These grants are targeted to specific areas, natural communities, and species, so they may or may not be
applicable to the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains RMU in a given year.
2
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Draft Reserve Management Plan for Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains RMU
It is recommended that the RMUC, with the Land Manager serving as coordinator, meet at
least annually to identify grant opportunities and timing to determine grants it wishes to
pursue and to assign responsibility for grant preparation and receipt.
4.6 Partnership Opportunities
There are a number of partnership opportunities in Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains,
some of which are already in place. Current partnerships include:
In cooperative efforts in the future, the RMUC could:
 Partner with various entities including Riverside County Community Improvement
Department, waste disposal companies, and non-profit conservation groups to
sponsor volunteer clean ups in the RMU.
 Organize additional volunteer events including invasive species control, e.g. Sahara
mustard, fountain grass and tamarisk, and planting native vegetation.
 In coordination with the MPA, partner with universities or other entities to conduct
applied and basic research with the purpose of obtaining information useful to
management.
 Pool funds between its members for signing, fencing, and other items.
 Share equipment and/or personnel to maintain facilities, monitor resources, patrol
the RMU, and accomplish larger projects.
.
4.7 Data Storage and Analysis
The collection and storage of data in a manner which facilitates its easy retrieval and analysis
is crucial to the success of both the monitoring and management programs. It will enable
managers and wildlife agencies to evaluate the efficacy of conservation measures, and to
develop and implement Adaptive Management measures as needed.
Section 8.6 of the CVMSHCP, Data Storage and Management, addresses data management,
including database consolidation, data handling and storage, data availability, and data
compilation and analysis.
Key aspects of the data management program for land mangers in the RMU are anticipated
to be the development of standard and comprehensive data forms which facilitate the
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Draft Reserve Management Plan for Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains RMU
collection of consistent and robust data, and the ability to easily retrieve the data for
analysis to assist in the development and evaluation of management actions.
The CVCC has applied for grants to fund the development of a robust, standardized database
for the CVMSHCP. CVCC staff will work with the MPA, the Land Manager and the other
members of the RMUC, the RMOC, and other entities to develop the reserve management
and monitoring portion of the database.
In addition, a wealth of information exists in the Deep Canyon Databases to assist
researchers and inform management of the Conservation Area. These data enable
researchers to interpret results in the context of within and between-year variance of
biological and environmental variables. The nature of the databases ranges from paper copy
to computer files and traditional biological collections. Database publications include species
lists and seven books on the flora and fauna of Deep Canyon. The Deep Canyon Bibliography
is posted on the NRS website (www.ucnrs.org/nrs/biblio/BoydDeepCanyon.enl) and updated
yearly.
Goal: Develop a land management database which is integrated with the monitoring
database, which provides open access and easy data retrieval and transfer, which contains
an easy to use field user interface, and which complies with applicable standards, e.g., the
North American Invasive Plan Mapping Standard.
Actions:
1. Develop a land management database which is integrated with baseline and
monitoring data and which provides for robust data queries and analysis.
2. Develop standardized data entry formats and forms for field personnel.
3. Identify who is responsible for data management tasks.
4. Identify the process for access to and communication of data.
4.8 Reporting
An Annual Report will be prepared by the Land Manager in cooperation with the other
reserve managers which summarizes management activities in the previous year. It will
include completed and proposed management actions, including Adaptive Management
actions. It will also discuss any significant issues encountered during implementation of the
management program.
30
Appendix 1
Existing Management and Monitoring in the Santa Rosa San Jacinto Mountains RMU
Bureau of Land Management
The BLM is a federal agency responsible for managing the public lands in accordance
with federal law, regulation and policy in order to sustain the health, diversity and
productivity of the public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future
generations. BLM is required, by organic act legislation, to prepare land use plans which
provide guidance, with public input, on how public lands are to be managed. The
California Desert Conservation Area Plan (CDCA plan, 1980, as amended) provides land
use plan guidance for the California Desert Conservation Area. Based on purpose and
need, the 2002 CDCA Plan Amendment developed a general plan of action with planning
criteria to be in compliance with the California Desert Protection Act of 1994 and the
Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument Act of 2000. It also
developed plan goals that included working in collaboration with the U.S. Forest Service,
Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, State of California and local jurisdictions to
conserve the values of, and manage land uses in, the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto
Mountains National Monument. Another goal is to participate as a federal land
management partner with the local Coachella Valley jurisdictions, and contribute to
development and implementation of the Coachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat
Conservation Plan (CVMSHCP).
The Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains Conservation Area (Unit 6) includes a total of
approximately 136,868 BLM acres. Approximately 50,649 acres are designated
wilderness that are part of the Santa Rosa Wilderness. All acres in RMU 6 fall within the
boundary of the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument. The Santa
Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument was established by an Act of
Congress on October 24, 2000 “in order to preserve the nationally significant biological,
cultural, recreational, geological, educational, and scientific values found in the Santa
Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains and to secure now and for future generations the
opportunity to experience and enjoy the magnificent vistas, wildlife, land forms, and
natural and cultural resources in these mountains and to recreate therein” (Public Law
106-351). Establishment of the National Monument reflects the vision of local citizens
and national leaders to ensure this special landscape is protected for all time.
Significant to note is a proposed land exchange between the BLM and Agua Caliente
Band of Cahuilla Indians (Tribe). The proposed exchange of lands may significantly
impact future management decisions, specifically concerning the trails plan, therefore
should be addressed in the RMUP. A number of trails utilized by non-motorized
recreationists occur on the proposed exchange lands. No trailheads are located within
the proposed exchange lands. BLM’s management of 1,470 acres of land acquired from
the Tribe through the proposed exchange will be subject to existing laws, regulations,
policies, and land use plans, including the CDCA Plan, as amended, and the Santa Rosa
and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument Management Plan. The Tribe’s
management of 5,799 acres of land proposed to be acquired from the BLM will be
subject to the land use requirements and management prescriptions of the Indian
Canyons Master Plan and the Land Use Code. Since all lands in the proposed exchange
fall under the Mountains and Canyons Overlay, the conservation requirements of that
overlay, and the requirements of the Draft Tribal HCP (upon approval) will apply.
The CVMSHCP trails plan, which was developed by the Coachella Valley Association of
Governments in collaboration with the BLM, establishes management parameters for
trails within the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains Conservation Area. The BLM will
render a separate decision for the federal lands potion of the CVMSHCP trails plan,
pending receipt of a biological opinion from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. These
management parameters include prohibition of dogs on most trails, seasonal
prohibition on cross-country travel and camping from January 1 to September 30, and
prohibition of bicycles on selected trails.
California Department of Fish and Game
The Department of Fish and Game (DFG) owns approximately 20,700 acres of land in the
Conservation Area, primarily in the central to southern portion, with multiple
management and monitoring programs across ownerships and the primary wildlife
agency. They are the lead on bighorn sheep management and protection in the
mountain/urban interface areas and conduct an aerial monitoring program every other
year in coordination with the Bighorn Institute and other agencies. DFG also monitors
springs and installed drinkers/guzzlers throughout the Conservation Area.
The Department also has an active tamarisk removal and monitoring program in
coordination with BLM and other agencies. Fountain grass and possibly Arundo are also
listed as priorities for eradication.
California Department of Parks and Recreation
Although the majority of Mount San Jacinto State Park is within the boundary of the
Santa Rosa and San Jacinto National Monument, only a small fraction of the Park
overlaps the Conservation Area. Nonetheless, the proximity, partnership and
coordinated resources with the State Parks is crucial to protecting species and habitat as
well as managing public access and associate impacts. According to State Parks, the
following management activities are either complete or in process and will be
coordinated in the implementation of this plan:
-
April 2002 Mt. San Jacinto State Park (MSJSP) General Plan (available
on State Parks website www.parks.ca.gov)
-
Long Valley Management Plan: framework for the area surrounding the
PSAT mountain station; the most heavily used area within MSJSP;
considers past, present, future trends in visitation and use;
improvements to facilities, trails, access; balance between resource
protection and recreation; completed initial public comment input
April 2009- on hold due to State Bond funding holds). Planning efforts
are still ongoing
-
Interpretive Master Plan: framework for future interpretive activities
for all of MSJSP; written document 75% complete; includes history,
statistics, trends, action plan; completed by District staff. Should be
completed this summer.
UC Natural Reserve System: Philip L. Boyd Deep Canyon Desert Research Center
The Research Center is located in the Coachella Valley near the southern boundary of
the cities of Palm Desert and Indian Wells. In 1958, Deep Canyon was created as a UC
Riverside Campus Reserve, and in 1965, it was incorporated as one of the original
reserves in the UC Natural Reserve System (NRS). Deep Canyon is comprised of 6,122
acres of University-owned land; an additional 10,000 acres of adjacent federal lands are
available for research under use agreements. Deep Canyon is within the Santa Rosa and
San Jacinto Mountains National Monument, and forms the northern boundary of the
Monument in the Deep Canyon watershed.
Deep Canyon is the only protected site in the Colorado Desert dedicated to research and
teaching. There is no public access or recreational use of Deep Canyon. Scientists may
undertake long-term projects with confidence that their sites will not be disturbed by
conflicting uses. Additional protection is conferred by limits placed on activity on
adjacent lands by state and federal administrative overlays. The entire research area is
within a no-hunting State Game Refuge and the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains
National Monument.
Research capabilities of the reserve consist of four primary assets: (1) its status as a
protected research area since 1958; (2) well-developed databases; (3) accessibility from
numerous college and university campuses; and (4) support services including technical
staff and available laboratory and housing facilities to complement field studies.
Invasive plant management – Tamarisk have been eradicated on the alluvial plain and
accessible canyons. However efforts to control fountain grass on the alluvial fan and
accessible canyons have been less successful because of its persistence on inaccessible
canyon walls and remote canyons. Reinvasion is also facilitated by proximity to city
landscapes with abundant cultivation of fountain grass. Sahara mustard has been
present at the Research Center (< 3,000 ft) for decades but at a fairly light density.
Southern Low Desert Resource Conservation and Development Council
The Resource Conservation and Development Program was established by the federal
government in 1962, in part, to make resources available to communities for
conservation. To achieve this end, it established Resource Conservation and
Development (RC&D) Areas which are each administered by a Council. The Natural
Resource Conservation Service, NRCS, provides each Council with funding for a
Coordinator. The CVMSHCP area, including Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains RMU,
is part of the Southern Low Desert RC&D. One project of the RC&D Council has been the
formation of a Low Desert Weed Management Area group focused on the inventory and
control of invasive plant species, including those at Santa Rosa and San Jacinto
Mountains RMU. To date, the group has completed a Rapid Watershed Inventory of
invasive plants, developed weed treatment and inventory forms, and it has applied for
grant funding; both to control invasive plants and to obtain software and GPS units for
use by its members in documenting invasive plants and their treatment.
Note:
Through the RC&D, LDWMA, a grant was applied for and received from (I believe) the
California Department of Agriculture for control of salt cedar in the RMU. CDFG
subsequently conducted removal operations in the Santa Rosa Mountains (See Eddy
and/or Ilima for more details)
Bighorn Institute
Although not a landowner, Bighorn Institute has been actively monitoring bighorn sheep
populations in the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains Conservation Area since 1982
in coordination with the wildlife and land management agencies. According to their
website: “Conservation biologists consider captive breeding an effective tool for
rescuing populations threatened with extinction or delaying extinction while the agents
of a decline are investigated. Since 1985, Bighorn Institute has maintained a captive
population of endangered Peninsular bighorn sheep to provide animals for release into
the wild. To date, a total of 125 Peninsular bighorn sheep born or rehabilitated at
Bighorn Institute have been released into the northern Santa Rosa or San Jacinto
Mountains. Institute biologists also study the captive herd to gather information on
reproduction, maternal care, lamb development, behavior, nutrition, disease exposure,
and immunology.”
Since 1983, Bighorn Institute has conducted annual helicopter surveys of Peninsular
bighorn sheep in the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains. These surveys allow us to
estimate the population's size, trend, age and sex structure, distribution, and long-term
dynamics. Bighorn Institute now assists the California Department of Fish and Game in
conducting helicopter surveys every other year.
Bighorn Institute regularly conducts disease screening testing of captive and freeranging bighorn sheep to monitor bighorn health and disease exposure levels. Although
at this time disease is currently not a widely operating limiting factor for Peninsular
bighorn sheep, regular monitoring can aid early detection and correction of disease
concerns.
Bighorn Institute provides ecological information related to bighorn sheep to various
organizations and government departments to promote the proper management and
conservation of bighorn sheep.
The monitoring efforts of Bighorn Institute will be integrated into the efforts of this plan
and expanded upon where necessary.
CVMSHCP Monitoring Program
Community Assemblage
Key Monitoring Objective
Aeolian Sand
Communities:
Sand Dunes
and Sand
Fields
Landscape Level Monitoring
Collect data on environmental variables (e.g., local,
regional, and global weather patterns) identified in the
conceptual models
Describe local, regional, and global weather patterns
that may affect these communities
Develop and test conceptual models about how
changes to the landscape impact Covered Species
Determine the annual or periodic rate of sand
deposition of depletion within sand transport areas
Determine and quantify changes in Habitat that may
affect Covered Species
Assess landscape connectivity between preserves
through hypothesis testing
Assess changes in Habitat connectivity
Identify distribution of and cover of aeolian sand
natural communities
Relate changes in Habitat to changes in annual weather
patterns
Conduct studies to understand the Essential Ecological
Processes in these natural communities
Identify distribution of and quality of marsh natural
communities
X
Alluvial
Fan
and
Wash
Riparian
and
Desert
Fan
Palm
X
X
Saltbush
Scrub
and
Alkali
Flats
Desert Scrub,
Chaparral,
Woodland,
and Forest
Communities
in the
Mountainous
Areas
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Natural Community Level Monitoring
Estimate distribution and abundance of exotic invasive
plants
X
X
Estimate live perennial shrub abundance and
distribution
X
X
Ground-truth the spatial extent of Habitats as shown in
the satellite imagery and aerial photography
X
X
Develop and evaluate models about relationships
between changes in vegetation, landscape level
variables, and responses by Covered species
X
Confirm variables or characteristics the GIS analysis
used to separate the categories of reflectance types
within the aeolian system
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Evaluate relationships between groundwater and
mesquite hummocks
Relate changes in vegetation to landscape-level
monitoring variables
Track changes in ground water levels from wells and
surface water in the vicinity of fan palm oases
X
X
X
Community Assemblage
Key Monitoring Objective
Aeolian Sand
Communities:
Sand Dunes
and Sand
Fields
Species Level Monitoring
Estimate the distribution or population size of Covered
Species to describe status
X
Estimate adult survivorship, age structure for some
Covered Species (e.g. desert tortoise, bighorn sheep)
X
Develop and evaluate ecological models that propose
relationships between biotic and abiotic variables and
Covered Species
Learn more about the ecology of Covered Species
Identify and evaluate potential threats to Covered
Species
Develop effective and efficient non-lethal sampling
protocols
Compare distribution of flat-tailed horned lizard in
saltbush scrub and desert sink scrub compared to other
natural communities
Determine if the populations of Covered Species are
being sustained and restored.
Alluvial
Fan
and
Wash
Riparian
and
Desert
Fan
Palm
Saltbush
Scrub
and
Alkali
Flats
X
X
X
Desert Scrub,
Chaparral,
Woodland,
and Forest
Communities
in the
Mountainous
Areas
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Further delimit species distribution
X
X
Note: For each of the assemblages listed above, with the exception of Saltbush Scrub and Alkali Flats, there are specific
monitoring measures listed under the key monitoring objectives. They include but are not limited to measures for exotic
animals, invertebrates, water features, e.g., springs, and water quality.
The initial focus of the Monitoring Program is on developing monitoring protocols for
the natural communities and Covered Species, conducting baseline surveys of springs,
seeps and manmade water sources utilized by bighorn sheep and other Covered
Species.
Appendix II
2012 Annual Workplan
RMU 6 – Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains Resource Management Unit
2012 Management Priorities Workplan
(Indicates responsible entities, BOLD indicates lead agency, tasks listed in priority order)
Managing Public Use and Access and Resource Protection (Indicates responsible entities, BOLD
indicates lead agency)
1. Align municipal codes addressing dogs with MSHCP requirements. (BLM/CVCC)
Resources required – staff time, Jim Foote and Katie Barrows
Timing – Complete by June 30, 2012
2. Post boundary/regulation signs at key locations along property lines including access
points. (BLM/DFG/CVCC)
Resources required – staff time, BLM Monument staff $XXXX materials
Timing – identify locations by March 31st, 2012, installations complete by 12/31/2012
3. Develop interpretive messaging and panels for information kiosks at trailheads.
(BLM/DFG/CVCC) - staff time, BLM Monument staff $XXXX materials
Resources – BLM/CVCC/DFG staff time, $XXXX materials
Timing 4. Address the proliferation of social trails on the east side of the RMU/Monument –
inventory their number, extent, and impacts, close and/or rehabilitate as needed.
(BLM/DFG/CVCC) – staff time and/or contractor for CVCC, volunteer organizing efforts
5. Identify access control point for illegal OHV access in the Snow Creek/Windy Point
Conservation Areas and install appropriate barriers/deterrents
Law Enforcement
1. Contract with BLM for part-time law enforcement ranger position (CVCC/BLM)
Resources – CVCC/BLM staff time, $xxx for contract
Timing - ??
2. BLM law enforcement will meet with monitoring staff to identify study plot avoidance in
Snow Creek/Windy Point CA
Resources – BLM/CVCC/ICF staff time
Timing – meet by March 31st, 2012
3. Coordinate law enforcement between BLM, State Parks, CDFG, Riverside County Sheriff
and Code Enforcement (illegal dumping), and the OHV Task Force. (ALL mentioned)
Resources – Staff time ALL
Timing - Ongoing
1
Invasive Plant Control
1. Tamarisk - Continue tamarisk removal in identified canyons/watersheds and spring sites
within the Resource Management unit (e.g., Palm and Guadalupe Canyons); re-treat regrowth in treated areas; re-vegetate in treated areas as needed. (CVCC/DFG/BLM)
Resources – BLM/DFG/CVCC staff time, volunteer resources/contractors $xxx
Timing – Identified areas addressed as needed in Spring and Fall 2012
2. Fountain Grass – Continue existing and initiate new control of fountain grass infestations;
identify and utilize the most effective and safe herbicide for control.
Resources – BLM/DFG/CVCC staff time, volunteer resources/contractors $xxx
Timing – Identified areas addressed as needed in Spring and Fall 2012
3. Arundo – Initiate arundo control in watersheds containing infestations (e.g., Sheep
Canyon).
Resources – BLM/DFG/CVCC staff time, volunteer resources/contractors $xxx
Timing – Identified areas addressed as needed in Spring and Fall 2012
4. Sahara Mustard - Hand pull Sahara mustard in priority areas such as stabilized
dunes/areas with sandy soils.
Resources – BLM/DFG/CVCC staff time, volunteer resources/contractors $xxx
Timing – Identified areas addressed as needed in Spring and Fall 2012
Fire Management
1. Provide fire suppression agencies with maps and other information (including the Fire
Management Plan when completed) prior to and during wildfire incidents to help protect
sensitive species and communities. (CVCC)
Resources – CVCC staff time
Timing – maps provided by June 30th, 2012
2. Send a CVCC land management representative to wildfire incidents to provide
information and input about CVCC conservation lands. (CVCC)
Resouces – CVCC staff time
Timing - ongoing
2