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3.3
BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES
As a result of the analysis undertaken in the Initial Study for the Los Angeles Mission
College Facilities Master Plan, the Los Angeles Community College District (LACCD)
determined that the proposed project may result in environmental impacts to biological
resources. Therefore, this issue is being carried forward for detailed analysis in this EIR.
This analysis was undertaken to identify opportunities to avoid, reduce, or otherwise
mitigate potential significant impacts to biological resources and to identify potential
alternatives.
The analysis of biological resources consists of a summary of the regulatory framework
that guides the decision-making process, a description of the existing conditions at the
proposed project area, thresholds for determining if the proposed project would result in
significant impacts, anticipated impacts (direct, indirect, and cumulative), mitigation
measures, and level of significance after mitigation. The potential for impacts to
biological resources have been analyzed using technical data compiled by URS
Corporation, and previously prepared biological evaluations for the project site.
3.3.1 Setting
3.3.1.1
Regulatory Setting
Federal
Federal Clean Water Act, Section 404
The Army Corps of Engineers requires a permit for any filling or dredging within
“Waters of the United States”. In the event the proposed project includes construction
activities that may affect a drainage, the permit review process entails an assessment of
potential adverse impacts to wetlands and streambed habitats. In response to a permit
application, the Corps would require conditions mitigating impacts to the drainage.
Where a federally-listed species may be affected, a Section 7 consultation with the U.S.
Fish and Wildlife Services under the Federal Endangered Species Act would be required.
Federal Endangered Species Act of 1973
The Federal Endangered Species Act (FESA) of 1973 defines an “endangered species” as
“any species which is in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its
range.” “Threatened species” are defined as “any species which is likely to become an
endangered species within the foreseeable future throughout all or a significant portion of
its range.” Under provisions of Section 9(a) (1) (B) of FESA it is unlawful to “take” any
listed species, where “take” is defined as “…harass, harm, pursue, hunt, shoot, wound,
kill, trap, capture, or collect, or to attempt to engage in any such conduct”. Further, the
USFWS, through regulation, has included certain types of habitat modification in their
interpretation of the terms “harm” and “harass” as a form of take. This interpretation,
however, is generally considered and applied on a case-by-case basis and often varies
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from species to species. In a case where a property owner seeks permission from a federal
agency for an action, which could affect a federally-listed plant or animal species, the
property owner and agency are required to consult with USFWS. Section 9(a) (2) (b) of
FESA addresses the protections afforded to listed plants.
Recently, the USFWS instituted changes in the listing status of former candidate species.
Former C1 (candidate) species are now referred to simply as candidate species and
represent the only candidates for listing. Former C2 species (for which the USFWS had
insufficient evidence to warrant listing at this time) and C3 species (either extinct, no
longer a valid taxon or more abundant than was formerly believed) are no longer
considered as candidate species. Therefore, these species are no longer maintained in list
form by the USFWS, nor are they formally protected. However, former C2 species have
been designated, for informational purposes only, Federal Species of Concern. This term
is employed in this document, but carries no official protections. All references to
federally-protected species in this report (whether listed, proposed for listing or
candidate) include the most current published status or candidate category to which each
species has been assigned by USFWS.
State
California Endangered Species Act (CESA)
California’s Endangered Species Act (CESA) defines an endangered species as “…a
native species or subspecies of a bird, mammal, fish, amphibian, reptile, or plant which is
in serious danger of becoming extinct throughout all, or a significant portion, of its range
due to one or more causes, including loss of habitat, change in habitat, overexploitation,
predation, competition, or disease.” The State defines a threatened species as “…a native
species or subspecies of bird, mammal, fish, amphibian, reptile, or plant that, although
not presently threatened with extinction, is likely to become an endangered species in the
foreseeable future in the absence of the special protection and management efforts
required by this chapter. Any animal determined by the commission as rare on or before
January 1, 1985 is a threatened species.” Candidate species are defined as “…a native
species or subspecies of a bird, mammal, fish, amphibian, reptile, or plant that the
commission has formally noticed as being under review by the department for addition to
either the list of endangered species of the list of threatened species, or a species for
which the commission has published a notice of proposed regulation to add the species to
either list.” Candidate species may be afforded temporary protection as though they were
already listed as threatened or endangered at the discretion of the Fish and Game
Commission. Unlike the FESA, CESA does not include listing provisions for invertebrate
species.
Article 3, Sections 2080 through 2085, of the CESA addresses the taking of threatened or
endangered species by stating, “No person shall import into this state, export out of this
state, or take, possess, purchase, or sell within this state, any species, or any part of
product thereof, that the commission determines to be an endangered species or a
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threatened species, or attempt any of those acts, except as otherwise provided…” Under
the CESA, “take” is defined as “…hunt, pursue, catch, capture, or kill, or attempt to hunt,
pursue, catch, capture, or kill.” Exceptions authorized by the state to allow “take” require
“…permits or memorandums of understanding…” and can be authorized for
“…endangered species, threatened species, or candidate species for Scientific,
educational, or management purposes.” Sections 1901 and 1913 of the California Fish
and Game Code provide that notification is required prior to disturbance.
Additionally, some sensitive mammals and birds are protected by the state as Fully
Protected Mammals or Fully Protected Birds, as a described in the California Fish and
Game Code, Sections 4700 and 3511, respectively. California Species of Special Concern
(“special” animals and plants) listings include special status species, including all state
and federal protected and candidate taxa, Bureau of Land management and United States
Forest Service sensitive species, species, species considered to be declining or rare by the
CNPS or National Audubon Society, and a selection of species which are considered to
be under population stress but are not formally proposed for listing. This list is primarily
a working document for the CDFG’s CNDDB project. Informally listed taxa are not
protected per se, but warrant consideration in the preparation of biotic assessments. For
some species, the CNDDB is only concerned with specific portions of the life history,
such as roosts, rookeries, or nest sites.
State of California Fish and Game Code, Section 1603
The California Fish and Game Code, Section 1603 requires that a project proponent
notify the CDFG of any proposed alteration to the streambeds. Its intent is to protect
streambed habitats important to fish and wildlife. In the course of the notification
process, CDFG may then place conditions on the Section 1603 clearance to address the
potentially significant adverse impacts within the CDFG jurisdictional limits.
California Native Plant Society
The California Native Plant Society (CNPS) is a private plant conservation organization
dedicated to the monitoring and protection of sensitive species in the state. CNPS has
compiled an inventory comprised of the information focusing on geographic distribution
and qualitative characterization of rare, threatened, or endangered vascular plant species
of California. The list serves as the candidate list for listing as threatened and endangered
by CDFG. CNPS has developed five categories of rarity:
List 1B: Rare, threatened, or endangered throughout their range
List 2: Rare, threatened, or endangered in California, but more common in other
states.
List 3: Plant species for which additional information is needed before rarity
can be determined.
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List 4: Species of limited distribution in California (i.e., naturally rare in the
wild), but whose existence does not appear to be susceptible to threat.
Local
County of Los Angeles Significant Ecological Areas (SEA)
The County of Los Angeles has designated specific natural areas throughout the County
that are ecologically fragile or important land and water areas supporting valuable plant
or animal communities. These areas are known as Significant Ecological Areas (SEA)
and are deserving of preservation and protection for the maintenance of biodiversity. The
nearest SEA to the project site is the Tujunga Valley/Hansen Dam SEA, which is located
approximately 3 miles from the project site. This area was designated as an SEA
primarily because of the threat of loss of suitable habitat for the unarmored threespine
stickleback. SEAs search as an information guide when conducting environmental
analysis for private development projects as well as for assisting public and private
entities in their attempts to protect and/or acquire existing habitat for development.
Los Angeles County Oak Tree Ordinance
Activities pertaining to the removal of oak trees within County of Los Angeles
jurisdiction would be subject to permitting ordinances codified by the County of Los
Angeles and would be reviewed by the County Planning Director. Application of a
conditional use permit would be required for any activity involving removing or
relocating heritage oak trees, as defined in Section 22.56.2060 of the County ordinance.
An oak resource report would be reviewed by the county forester and fire warden for
accuracy, with the oak resource value calculated according to the International Society of
Arborculture’s “Guide to Establishing Values for Trees and Shrubs”.
City of Los Angeles: Sylmar Community Plan
The Open Space Element of the Sylmar Community Plan addresses the importance of the
natural environment within the community. The Sylmar Community Plan states that open
space is important because of its role in both physical and environmental land use
protection. The Sylmar Community Plan defines open space as land which is essentially
free of structures and buildings or is natural in character and which functions in one or
more of the following ways:
1.
Recreational and educational opportunities.
2.
Scenic, cultural and historic values.
3.
Public health and safety.
4.
Preservation and creation of community identity.
5.
Rights-of-way for utilities and transportation facilities.
6.
Preservation of natural resources or ecologically important areas.
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3.3.1.2
Environmental Setting
This section summarizes the sensitive local, State, and federally recognized plant and
wildlife species present, or potentially occurring, within the project site and vicinity. It is
primarily based on an evaluation of the habitats present within the project site and the
suitability of the habitats present to support sensitive plant and wildlife species. Species
with CNDDB records of existence within the project area -- but that do not occur on site
due to the lack of suitable habitat -- are discussed in the Biological Technical Report
contained in Appendix A. 1 The previous biological work done by PCR (2005) on
adjacent properties (other than the main campus) was also consulted, but is not reported
in this document.2
The current project study area consists of the Los Angeles Mission College (LAMC)
campus and two adjacent parcels along Harding Street, which are proposed as additions
to the campus footprint. Much of the existing 22.5-acre project site has been disturbed
from its natural setting by urban developments, landscaping, and other anthropogenic
disturbances. The LAMC campus is primarily developed with college-associated
buildings, structures, paved areas, and ornamental plantings of turf grass and trees. Open
areas of the campus are park-like in character.3
The two parcels on Harding Street include a northern parcel (PA N), approximately three
acres in extent, and a southern parcel (PA S), approximately seven acres in extent. Both
of these parcels are relatively flat, located on a mesa overlooking the Pacoima Wash to
the east, and contain an approximately 20-30 foot slope that descends from the eastern
parcel boundaries, down toward Maclay Street and the Pacoima Wash. The mesa
containing the two sites is a flood plain from the Pacoima Wash. Both parcels generally
contain loose, sandy soils with little gravel or rock cover; however, gravel and cobble
occur along the Harding Street road cut. The southern parcel is characterized by recent
grading disturbance, sparse ruderal weeds, and infrequent native shrubs. The northern
Harding Street parcel is occupied by disturbed Non-native Grassland and Coastal Sage
Scrub.
3.3.2 Significance Thresholds
According to CEQA Guidelines, Appendix G, the project may result in a significant
impact to biological resources, if it would:
a. Have a substantial adverse effect, either directly or through habitat
modifications, on any species identified as a candidate, sensitive, or
special status species in local or regional plans, policies, or regulations, or
1
URS Corporation. 2006. Biological Resource Assessment, for the revised Los Angeles Mission College Facilities
Master Plan and Public Recreation Improvement Plan, Los Angeles County, California.
2
PCR Services Corporation. 2005. Biological Resource Assessment, for the Los Angeles Mission College Facilities
Master Plan and Public Recreation Improvement Plan, Los Angeles County, California
3
Ibid.
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by the California Department of Fish and Game or U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service?
b. Have a substantial adverse effect on any riparian habitat or other sensitive
natural community identified in local or regional plans, policies, and
regulations or by the California Department of Fish and Game or US Fish
and Wildlife Service?
c. Have a substantial adverse effect on federally protected wetlands as
defined by Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (including, but not limited
to, marsh, vernal pool, coastal, etc.) through direct removal, filling,
hydrological interruption, or other means?
d. Interfere substantially with the movement of any native resident or
migratory fish or wildlife species or with established native resident or
migratory wildlife corridors, or impede the use of native wildlife nursery
sites?
e. Conflict with any local policies or ordinances protecting biological
resources, such as a tree preservation policy or ordinance?
f. Conflict with the provisions of an adopted Habitat Conservation Plan,
Natural Community Conservation Plan, or other approved local, regional,
or state habitat conservation plan?
The District, when appropriate, considers the thresholds established by the local
jurisdiction or regulatory agency as guidance for determining the significance of an
impact. The project site is located within the City of Los Angeles. Under the City’s
criteria, an impact on biological resources would be considered significant if the
proposed project would result in: 1) the loss of individuals, or the reduction of existing
habitat, of a State or Federal listed Endangered, Threatened, Rare, Protected, Candidate,
or Sensitive Species or a Species of Special Concern; 2) the loss of individuals or the
reduction of existing habitat of a locally-designated species or a reduction in a locallydesignated natural habitat or plant community; 3) the interference with wildlife
movement/migration corridors that may diminish the chances for long-term survival of a
sensitive species; 4) the alteration of an existing wetland habitat; or 5) the interference
with habitat such that normal species behaviors are disturbed (e.g., from the introduction
of noise, light) to a degree that may diminish the chances for long-term survival of a
sensitive species
3.3.3 Environmental Impact Analysis
3.3.3.1
Site Survey
This impact analysis uses the above significance thresholds to determine project impacts,
if any, on individuals and existing habitat of a State- or Federal-listed Species, Species of
Special Concern, as well as individuals or existing habitat of a locally-designated species
or locally-designated natural habitat or plant community. While the LAMC is developed,
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and is not located near natural habitat areas such that normal species behaviors would be
disturbed, the Harding Street parcels are situated adjacent to the Pacoima Wash Open
Space Area and, accordingly, proposed Harding Street parcel development and operations
are analyzed with respect to potential project interference with habitat and associated
normal species behaviors.
A biological evaluation of the project study area was conducted by URS biologists on 2
August 2006 (Appendix A). During the course of these surveys, the biologists documented the natural communities found within the project site and compiled a list of plant
and animal species observed. Prior to visiting the project site, a review of literature on the
biological resources of the study area and the surrounding vicinity was conducted,
including the surveys in the adjacent vicinity by PCR (2005).4 Federal Register listings,
protocols, and species data were reviewed in conjunction with Federally-listed species
potentially occurring within the area. The CNDDB database and the CNPSEI (California
Native Plant Society Electronic Inventory) were also queried on August 2, 2006 for the
nine project Quadrangles (San Fernando, Newhall, Mint Canyon, Agua Dulce, Oat
Mountain, Sunland, Canoga Park, Van Nuys, and Burbank).5,6 Regional floral and faunal
field guides were also utilized in the identification of species and suitable habitats. The
vegetation classification of plant communities in the study areas was taken mainly from
Holland (1986) and Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf (1995).7,8 Plant scientific nomenclature,
common names, and habitat information follow Hickman (1993), Munz (1959, 1968, and
1974), and Sunset (1995). 9 10 11 Observed animal species and signs were recorded
incidentally during the field survey. Wildlife nomenclature, common names, and habitat
information follow Jameson and Peeters (1988), Burt and Grossenheider (1980), and
Whitaker (1980), for mammals; Peterson (1990), National Geographic Society (1983),
Stokes and Stokes (1996), and Garrett and Dunn (1981) for birds; and Stebbins (1985)
and Behler and King (1979) for reptiles and amphibians. Common names of plants and
wildlife are not consistent among these authors. Combined, reviewed sources provided a
4
PCR Services Corporation. 2005. Biological Resource Assessment, for the Los Angeles Mission College Facilities
Master Plan and Public Recreation Improvement Plan, Los Angeles County, California
5
CNPS (California Native Plant Society), 1994. California Native Plant Society’s Inventory of Rare and Endangered
Vascular Plants of California. Special Publication No. 1, Fifth Edition. Edited by M.W. Skinner and B.M. Pavlik,
California Native Plant Society, Sacramento, California. 338 pages
6
CNDDB (California Natural Diversity Data Base), 2006. RareFind 3, computer software program. CDFG, Natural
Heritage Division, NDDB, Sacramento, California.
7
Holland, R.F., 1986. Preliminary Descriptions of the Terrestrial Natural Communities of California. Nongame
Heritage Program. California Department of Fish and Game, Sacramento, California. 156 pages
8
Sawyer, J.O. and T. Keeler-Wolf, 1995. A Manual of California Vegetation. California Native Plant Society,
Sacramento, California. 471 pages
9
Hickman, J.C. (editor), 1993. The Jepson Manual: Higher Plants of California. University of California Press,
Berkeley and Los Angeles, California. 1,400 pages.
10
Munz, P.A., 1959. A California Flora. In collaboration with D.D. Keck. University of California Press, Berkeley and
Los Angeles, California. 1,681 pages
11
Sunset, 1995. Sunset Western Garden Book. By the editors of Sunset Books and Sunset Magazine. Sunset Books,
Inc., Menlo Park, California. 624 pages.
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baseline to evaluate the biological resources potentially occurring in the area. 12 13 14 15 16
17 18 19
At the time of their respective surveys, PCR and URS biologists also performed
assessments of jurisdictional wetlands and “Waters of the U.S. and State”. Prior to
visiting the project site, potential and historic drainages and aquatic features were
identified, based on a review of current aerial photography and the USGS San Fernando,
California Quadrangle topographic map. The project site was field-evaluated and areas
potentially subject to the jurisdiction of the United States Army Corps of Engineers
(USACE), Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB) and the CDFG were
identified on foot in the field.
Potential USACE jurisdictional wetlands were identified using routine methodology
outlined in the USACE Wetland Delineation Manual20 , which is based on hydrologic
features, soil features, and vegetation composition. Potential non-wetland waters were
delineated based on the limits of the “ordinary high water mark” (OHWM) as indicated
by erosion, the deposition of vegetation or debris, and types of vegetation. The
jurisdiction was defined between the banks of the stream channels or else to the limits of
the adjacent riparian vegetation. Each area was examined for evidence of an OHWM, soil
saturation, and wetland vegetation. If any of these criteria was met, a series of transects
was run to determine the extent or lack of jurisdiction.
Focused surveys by a botanist for sensitive plants in the Harding Street Parcels will be
performed in the Harding Street Parcels during March-April 2007. Focused surveys by an
ornithologist and herpetologist for the Coastal California Gnatcatcher, Least Bell’s Vireo,
Arroyo Toad, and Horned Lizard will also be performed in the Harding Street Parcels
during March-April 2007. Methods employed will be in conformance with applicable
USFWS and CDFG Presence/Absence Survey Guidelines.
12
Burt, W.H. and R.P. Grossenheider, 1980. A Field Guide to the Mammals. Houghton Mifflin Company, Boston,
Massachusetts. 289 pages
13
Whitaker, J.O., Jr., 1980. The Audubon Society Field Guide to North American Mammals. Alfred A. Knopf, Inc.,
New York, New York. 745 pages.
14
Peterson, R.T., 1990. A Field Guide to Western Birds. Houghton Mifflin Company, Boston, Massachusetts. 432
pages.
15
National Geographic Society, 1983. A Field Guide to the Birds of North America. National Geographic Society,
Washington, D.C. 464 pages.
16
Garrett, K. and J. Dunn, 1981. Birds of Southern California: Status and Distribution. Los Angeles Audubon Society,
Los Angeles, California
17
Stebbins, R.C., 1985. A Field Guide to Western Reptiles and Amphibians. Houghton Mifflin Company, Boston,
Massachusetts. 336 pages.
18
Behler, J.L. and F.W. King, 1979. The Audubon Society Field Guide to North American Reptiles and Amphibians.
Alfred A. Knopf, Inc., New York, New York. 719 pages.
19
Stokes, D. and L. Stokes, 1996. Stokes Field Guide to Birds: Western Region. Little, Brown and Company, Boston,
Massachusetts. 519 pages
20
USACE (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers), 1987. Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual. Technical
Report Y-87-1. Environmental Laboratory, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Waterways Experiment Station, Vicksburg,
MS. 169 pages
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3.3.3.2
Plant Communities
The project study area supports vegetative communities defined by Holland (1986) and
Sawyer and Keeler-Wolfe (1995). The following vegetation descriptions include a
general description of plant communities found within the project site. For the location of
these communities, see Figure 3.3-1 Vegetation Map, and Table 3.3-1, which summarize
the existing plant communities and their respective acreages within the project area. 21 22
California Sagebrush-California Buckwheat Scrub
California Sagebrush-California Buckwheat Scrub is similar to California Sagebrush
Scrub, but has more than one dominant species. Within the northern Harding Street
parcel, and on the east facing slope of the southern Harding Street parcel, California
Sagebrush-California Buckwheat Scrub is dominated by California Sagebrush and
California Buckwheat. Additional species include Mexican Elderberry (Sambucus
mexicana), Laurel Sumac (Malosma laurina), Horehound (Marrubium vulgare), and
Red-stemmed Filaree (Erodium cicutarium). Approximately 1.8 acres of California
Sagebrush-California Buckwheat Scrub occur along the slopes of the southern and
northern Harding Street parcels.
Non-Native Grassland
Within the project study area, Non-native Grassland is dominated by Wild Oat (Avena
sp.), Ripgut Grass (Bromus diandrus), Foxtail Chess (Bromus madritensis), and Fescue
(Vulpia myuros). Occasional annual forbs include Cheeseweed (Malva parviflora), Black
Mustard, (Brassica nigra), Red-stemmed Filaree, and Russian Thistle (Salsola tragus).
Approximately 2.3 acres of Non-native Grasslands occur within the northern Harding
Street Parcel; no Non-native Grasslands occur within the northern Harding Street Parcel.
Additionally, the majority of Non-Native Grassland within the northern Harding Street
Parcel had been mechanically removed approximately two to three months prior to the
August 2006 survey.
Disturbed Areas
Disturbed Areas are mostly devoid of vegetation due to recent mechanical disturbances.
Types of disturbed areas found on-site include disked or cleared land, dirt access roads,
and areas created by off-road vehicles usage. The majority of the southern Harding Street
parcel had been recently disturbed by disking at the time of this survey. Aerial
photographs of the parcel from 2002 indicate, however, that similar disturbed vegetation
was present in the past. With the exception of a few native shrubs, including Mexican
21
Holland, R.F., 1986. Preliminary Descriptions of the Terrestrial Natural Communities of California.
Nongame Heritage Program. California Department of Fish and Game, Sacramento, California. 156 pages.
22
Sawyer, J.O. and T. Keeler-Wolf, 1995. A Manual of California Vegetation. California Native Plant
Society, Sacramento, California. 471 pages.
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Figure 3.3-1
Vegetation Map
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Table 3.3-1
Summary of Vegetation Communities
Community
Acreage
California Sagebrush – California Buckwheat Scrub
1.8
Non-Native Grassland
2.4
Disturbed
6.3
Total
10.5
Elderberry, only a few disturbance-following plant species were observed, including
Castor Bean (Ricinus communis), Russian Thistle (Salsola sp.), and Jimson Weed
(Datura wrightii). Approximately 6.1 acres of disturbed area occur within southern
Harding Street Parcel and 0.2 acres occur within northern Harding Street Parcel.
Developed Areas
Developed areas include buildings, parking lots, roads, parks, ornamental landscaping,
clear and graded sites, as well as urban areas. The 22.5 acres of developed area occur
within the study area on the LAMC campus. Typical species include Jacaranda
(Jacaranda mimosifolia), Coral Tree (Erythrina sp.), Tulip Tree (Liriodendron tulipfera),
Coast Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia), Crepe Myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica), and juniper
(Juniperus sp.).
Summary of Plant Communities
The plant communities listed in Table 3.3-1 are comprised of numerous plant species and
provide wildlife habitat for a number of animals. While a few wildlife species are entirely
dependent on a single natural community, the entire mosaic of all the natural
communities within the study area and adjoining areas constitutes a functional ecosystem
for a variety of wildlife species, both within the project area, and as part of the regional
ecosystem. Plant and wildlife species observed within the project site are shown in
Appendix A.
Wildlife Corridors
Studies of natural movement corridors and habitat linkages provide an understanding of
the relationships between large animal populations, smaller and sedentary plants and
animals, open space reserves, and natural movement patterns and genetics of plants and
animals. In general, fragmentation of large habitat areas into small, isolated segments
reduces biological diversity, eliminates disturbance-sensitive species, restricts genetic
flow between populations of organisms, and may eventually lead to local extinctions of
entire floral or faunal assemblages. Most land use planning guidelines now recognize the
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importance of protecting wildlife movement corridors and habitat linkages, and seek to
retain ecosystems and major linkages intact, to the maximum extent practical. Defining
precise or comprehensively useful corridor alignments or specific spatial and resource
requirements without conducting long-term studies on specific sites, however, is difficult.
Wildlife movement corridors can vary from narrow specific paths a few feet wide used
by certain species to move from breeding areas to foraging areas, to major corridors for
population dispersal and migration with spans of hundreds of miles and at the scale of
mountain ranges and valleys. Depending on the organism and its needs, movement
corridors can either be continuous or discontinuous patches of suitable habitat. For a fish
migrating upstream, the habitat needs to be relatively continuous, whereas highly mobile
species, such as birds and large mammals, can sometimes adequately move through
discontinuous habitat. Habitats and regional populations on the LAMC study area are at
the narrower end of this spectrum, and have been generally restricted or eliminated within
the highly urbanized portions of the region as development has progressively occurred.
The project site, which is situated in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains, is located
on the edge of a highly urbanized area of the San Fernando Valley, and provides limited
native scrub and “open space” area within the Harding Street Parcels. Although there are
large open spaces to the north and east (i.e., San Gabriel Mountains), the area is
surrounded in all other directions by urban development. Similarly, although the Pacoima
Wash occurs to the north and east of the vacant parcels and could provide resources for
wildlife movement, wildlife traveling south within the wash would soon hit the existing
urban barrier to the south (Figure 3.3-1). Most sensitive species would learn to avoid this
dead-end route. Therefore, due to its location in an already urbanized and
anthropogenically disturbed area, the study area does not constitute a substantial regional
wildlife corridor for sensitive species. Furthermore, the Missing Linkages report
indicated that the project site is outside of any identified potential linkage areas or choke
points.23
Observations of common wildlife and wildlife sign during general surveys were sparse,
and many species are not expected to utilize the project site as a corridor. However, a few
common urbanized species, such as Raccoon (Procyan lotor), Virginia (Didelphis
virginiana), Striped Skunk (Mephitis mephitis), Coyote (Canis latrans), and many
common bird species, such as Mourning Dove (Zenaida macroura), Wrentit (Chamaea
fasciata), Common Raven (Corvus corax), and Western Kingbird (Tyrannus verticalis),
may move through the study area on a local basis to forage within urban areas. The
presence of these common species was observed along Pacoima Wash and the associated
open space north and east of the Harding Street parcels. The presence of these species in
the project area indicates that these species are traveling to and from foraging and resting
areas, likely along a consistent route. Movement of this type on the edges of urban areas
is common wherever open space is sufficient to support wildlife. For medium and large
23
Penrod, K., C. Cabañero, P. Beier, C. Luke, W. Spencer, E. Rubin, S. Loe, and K. Meyer. 2004. South Coast Missing
Linkages Project: A Linkage Design for the San Gabriel-San Bernardino Connection. South Coast Wildlands,
Idyllwild, CA. www.scwildlands.org
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mammal species, the likely travel routes on-site are limited to travel on roads and through
open space vegetation. Avian species and bats are less restricted, but may frequently
move through contiguous habitat connections.
Jurisdictional Waters of the U.S., Including Wetlands
A jurisdictional delineation of “Waters of the U.S. and State”, and wetlands was
conducted within the study area on August 2, 2006 by URS biologists to determine the
presence or absence of USACE, CDFG, and Regional Water Quality Control Board
(RWQCB) jurisdiction. No USACE, CDFG, or RWQCB jurisdictional feature was found
within the LAMC campus or the Harding Street parcels. One non-jurisdictional, concretelined drainage feature is located along the northeast boundary of the LAMC campus.
This feature was determined to be non-jurisdictional because it constitutes an excavation
in uplands, lacks unique biological value or riparian habitat, and is not hydrologically
connected to a “navigable” waterway. This feature drains surface water runoff from the
campus and the adjacent ball fields to an adjacent golf course pond.
3.3.3.3
Sensitive Biological Resources
The following summary describes sensitive plant and wildlife species present, or
potentially occurring, within the study area and vicinity, based on the surveys performed
and on evaluation of the habitats present. Details of these surveys area provided in
Appendix A. Sensitive plant and wildlife species have been identified by local, State, and
Federal resource conservation agencies and organizations principally due to their
population declines or limited population sizes usually resulting from habitat loss or
anthropogenic disturbance. Also considered are habitats that are biologically unique,
relatively limited in distribution, or of particular value to wildlife.
3.3.3.4
Explanation of Sensitive Resource Classifications
Officially Listed and Protected Species are designated by State and Federal resource
management agencies under provisions of the State and Federal Endangered Species
Acts. By policy designations, many resource agencies designate additional species and
biological resources on “watch lists” of special status resources under their purview. For
example, the CDFG monitors the status of “California Species of Concern (CSC),” for
several categories of species that are not designated as Threatened or Endangered. If the
status of these species substantially deteriorates due to habitat losses, for example, they
eventually may be considered for official listing status by the State of California. Such
species are collectively treated as “sensitive species” and are discussed in Appendix A.
Prior to the field surveys on the LACM site, a list of sensitive species was obtained from
the CNDDB and other sources as noted below. The habitat for many of these species does
not currently exist on the LACM site. Accordingly, this EIR Section only addresses those
species designated as State or Federally Threatened, Endangered, and Rare with potential
habitat for them within the study area.
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3.3.3.5
Sensitive Plant Communities
Sensitive plant communities include those that are considered to be rare and of special
interest because they support, or have potential to support, listed and otherwise sensitive
species. The Harding Street project site supports 1.8 acres of California SagebrushCalifornia Buckwheat Scrub, which is considered sensitive by the CNDDB. In Southern
California, it is the potential habitat for the Coastal California Gnatcatcher.
3.3.3.6
Sensitive Plant Species
Several sensitive plant species were reported in the CNDDB and CNPSEI within and
adjacent to the project study area. A list of each sensitive species recognized by the
CNDDB, CNPSEI, and URS (2006) as potentially occurring within the project site is
contained in Table 3.3-2 below. Twenty sensitive plant species were considered for their
potential to occur within the study area. Following the general field survey, 12 of these
species are considered absent from the project site due to the lack of suitable habitat
requirements. These species are listed below and discussed in Appendix A. 24 25 26
•
Greata’s Aster (Aster greatae)
•
Braunton’s Milk-vetch (Astragalus brauntonii)
•
Parish’s Brittlescale (Atriplex parishii)
•
Nevin’s Barberry (Berberis nevinii)
•
Sender Mariposa Lily (Calochortus clavatus var. gracilis)
•
San Fernando Valley Spineflower (Chorizanthe parryi var. Fernandina)
•
Slender-horned Spineflower (Dodecahema leptocerus)
•
Los Angeles Sunflower (Helianthus nuttallii ssp. Parishii)
•
San Gabriel Linanthus (Linanthus concinnus)
•
Spreading Navarretia (Navarretia fossalis)
•
California Orcutt Grass (Orcuttia californica)
•
Rayless Ragwort (Senecio aphanactis)
Of the remaining 8 species, 5 have a “low” potential for occurrence and are not
considered further (Table 3.3.2). A “low” potential for occurrence is defined by the
following: species distribution is restricted by substantive habitat requirements, which
24
CNPSEI. 2006. California Native Plant Society Electronic Inventory.
CNDDB (California Natural Diversity Data Base), 2006. RareFind 3, computer software program. CDFG, Natural
Heritage Division, NDDB, Sacramento, California
26
URS Corporation. 2006. Biological Resource Assessment, for the revised Los Angeles Mission College Facilities
Master Plan and Public Recreation Improvement Plan, Los Angeles County, California
25
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Table 3.3-2
Sensitive Plant Species Potentially Occurring within the Project Area
Special Status
Species
Calochortus
plummerae
Plummer’s Mariposa
Lily
Camissonia lewisii
Lewis’s Eveningprimrose
Centromadia parryi
ssp. australis
Southern Tarplant
Deinandra
minthornii
Santa Susana
Tarplant
Dudleya
blochmaniae ssp.
blochmaniae
Blochman’s Dudleya
Horkelia cuneata
ssp. puberula
Mesa Horkelia
Malacothamnus
davidsonii
Davidson’s Bush
Mallow
Opuntia basilaris
var. brachyclada
Short-joint Beavertail
Habitat and Distribution
Bulbiferous perennial herb. Occurs in
coastal scrub, chaparral, cismontane
woodland, lower montane coniferous
forest, and valley and foothill
grassland on alluvial or granitic, rocky
or sandy soils. From 295 to 5,580 feet
in elevation.
Annual herb. Occurs in coastal bluff
scrub, coastal dunes, coastal scrub,
cismontane woodland, and valley and
foothill grassland on sandy or clay
soils. Up to 985 feet in elevation.
Annual herb. Occurs in vernal pools,
margins of marshes and swamps, and
vernally mesic valley and foothill
grasslands, sometimes with saltgrass
on alkaline soils. Up to 1,400 feet in
elevation.
Deciduous shrub. Occurs in
chaparral, coastal scrub, on rocky
soils and on sandstone outcrops and
crevices. Known only from Los
Angeles and Ventura counties. From
920 to 2,490 feet in elevation.
Perennial herb. Occurs in coastal bluff
scrub, chaparral, coastal scrub, valley
and foothill grassland, rocky, often
clay or serpentinite. From 15 to 1,476
feet in elevation.
Perennial herb. Occurs in coastal
scrub, chaparral and cismontane
woodland on sandy or gravelly soils.
From 230 to 2,660 feet in elevation.
Deciduous shrub. Occurs in coastal
scrub, cismontane woodland, riparian
woodland, and chaparral, often in
sandy washes. From 610 to 2,805
feet in elevation.
Stem succulent shrub. Occurs in
chaparral, joshua tree “woodland,”
mojavean desert scrub, and in pinyon
and juniper woodland, often on sandy
soils or coarse, granitic loam. From
1,395 to 5,910 feet in elevation.
Flowering
Season
May – July
Status
Designation
Fed: None
CA: None
CNPS: List 1B
R-E-D: 2-2-3
Potential for
Occurrence
Moderate
March –
June
Fed: None
CA: None
CNPS: List 3
R-E-D: ?-?-2
Moderate
May –
November
Fed: None
CA: None
CNPS: List 1B
R-E-D: 3-3-2
Low
July –
November
Fed: None
CA: Rare
CNPS: List 1B
R-E-D: 2-2-3
Low
April – June
Fed: None
CA: None
CNPS: List 1B
R-E-D: 2-3-2
Low
February –
September
Fed: None
CA: None
CNPS: List 1B
R-E-D: 2-3-3
Fed: None
CA: None
CNPS: List 1B
R-E-D: 2-2-3
Moderate
Fed: None
CA: None
CNPS: List 1B
R-E-D: 3-2-3
Low
June January
April - June
Low
General references: Hickman (ed.) 1993; Munz 1974; CNPSEI 2006; CNDDB 2006
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Special Status
Species
Flowering
Season
Habitat and Distribution
Status
Designation
Potential for
Occurrence
Federal designations: (federal Endangered Species Act, USFWS):
END:
Federal-listed, endangered.
THR:
Federal-listed, threatened.
CAN:
Proposed federal listed, endangered.
State designations: (California Endangered Species Act, CDFG)
END:
State-listed, endangered.
THR:
State-listed, threatened.
RARE:
State-listed as rare
California Native Plant Society (CNPS) designations:
List 1A: Plants presumed extinct in California.
List 1B: Plants rare and endangered in California and throughout their range.
List 2:
Plants rare, threatened, or endangered in California but more common elsewhere in their range.
List 3:
Plants about which we need more information; a review list.
List 4:
Plants of limited distribution; a watch list.
CNPS R-E-D Code:
Rarity :
1 Rare, found in sufficient numbers and distributed widely enough that the potential for extinction or extirpation is low at this
time.
2 Occurrence confined to several populations or one extended population.
3 Occurrence limited to one or a few highly restricted populations, or present in such small numbers that it is seldom
reported.
Endangerment:
1 Not endangered.
2 Endangered in a portion of its range.
3 Endangered throughout its range.
Distribution:
1 More or less widespread outside California.
2 Rare outside California.
3 Endemic to California (i.e., does not occur outside California
Definitions of Occurrence Probability:
Absent
Species distribution is restricted by substantive habitat requirements, which do not occur within the study area, and no further survey or study is
obligatory to determine likely presence or absence of this species within the study area.
Low
Species distribution is restricted by substantive habitat requirements, which marginally occur or are negligible within the study area, and no further
survey or study is obligatory to determine likely presence or absence of this species within the study area.
Moderate
Species distribution is restricted by substantive habitat requirements, which partly or mostly occur within the study area, and further survey or
study is necessary to determine likely presence or absence of species from the study area.
High
Species distribution is restricted by substantive habitat requirements, which predominantly occur within the study area, and further survey or study
is necessary to determine likely presence or absence of species from the study area.
Present
Species observed on the site during surveys described here, or recorded onsite by other qualified biologists.
Absent, Low, and Present categories correspond to a recommendation of not conducting a focused survey. The Moderate and High categories
correspond to a recommendation of conducting a focused survey.
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marginally occur or are negligible within the study area, and no further survey or study is
obligatory to determine likely presence or absence of this species within the study area
(see Table 3.3.2 footnotes). The remaining 3 species with at least a “moderate” potential
for occurrence (Plummer’s Mariposa Lily, Lewis’s Evening-primrose, and Mesa
Horkelia) will be surveyed for during the appropriate blooming period in March-April,
2007. None of these 3 species is considered state- or federally-Threatened or Endangered.
Main Campus
No sensitive plant was found within the LAMC campus project area (Appendix A).
However, because the development of this draft EIR did not coincide with the blooming
periods of most sensitive plant species with potential to occur within the project study
area focused botanical surveys for the LAMC campus will be performed during the
appropriate March-April 2007 blooming periods, and will follow applicable survey
protocols. These focused botanical surveys will determine which, if any, of the remaining
nine sensitive species, or any other sensitive plant species, are located within the LAMC
campus.
Harding Street Property
No sensitive plant species is expected within the Harding street parcels because of the
high level of existing anthropogenic disturbance (e.g., continual disking and weed
whipping) within the parcels and adjacent public infrastructure. Nevertheless, should
sensitive species be present, a Mitigation Plan for any sensitive species found within the
Harding Street parcels will be drafted in accordance with relevant jurisdictional agency
requirements to reduce impacts on sensitive plant species to a level of insignificance as
described below.
3.3.3.7
Sensitive Wildlife Species
Sensitive wildlife species were reported in the CNDDB within, and adjacent to, the study
area. A summary of sensitive wildlife species recognized by the CNDDB, PCR, and URS
as potentially occurring within the study area is presented in Table 3.3-3 below. Twentynine sensitive wildlife species were considered for their potential to occur within the
study area.27 28 29
Following the general field surveys, 17 of these species are considered absent from the
project site and are not expected to occur due to a lack of suitable habitat, as noted in
Appendix A. As a result, the following species were eliminated from further analysis:
27
CNDDB (California Natural Diversity Data Base), 2006. RareFind 3, computer software program.
CDFG, Natural Heritage Division, NDDB, Sacramento, California.
28
PCR Services Corporation. 2005. Biological Resource Assessment, for the Los Angeles Mission College Facilities
Master Plan and Public Recreation Improvement Plan, Los Angeles County, California
29
URS Corporation. 2006. Biological Resource Assessment, for the revised Los Angeles Mission College Facilities
Master Plan and Public Recreation Improvement Plan, Los Angeles County, California
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Table 3.3-3
Sensitive Plant Species Potentially Occurring within the Project Area
Scientific Name
Common Name
CLASS INSECTA
INSECTS
DANAIDAE
Danaus plexippus
MILKWEED
BUTTERFLIES
Monarch Butterfly
CLASS AMPHIBIA
AMPHIBIANS
BUFONIDAE
Bufo californicus
TRUE TOADS
Arroyo Toad
PELOBATIDAE
Spea hammondii
SPADEFOOT TOADS
Western Spadefoot Toad
TEIIDAE
WHIPTAIL LIZARDS
Aspidoscelis
Orange-throated Whiptail
(=Cnemidophorus) hyperythra
Aspidoscelis tigris stejnegeri
Coastal Western Whiptail
PHRYNOSOMATIDAE
HORNED LIZARDS
Phrynosoma coronatum
blainvillii
San Diego Horned Lizard
CLASS AVES
BIRDS
Los Angeles Community College District
Status
Habitat
Comments
Winter roost sites extend
along the coast from northern
Mendocino to Baja California
among wind-protected tree
groves.
Low
FE, CSC Found on sandy banks
adjacent to washes, streams,
and arroyos in semiarid parts
of the southwest.
FSC, CSC Occurs in grassland habitats,
but can be found in valleyfoothill hardwood woodlands.
CSC
--
CSC
3.3-18
Inhabits low-elevation coastal
scrub, chaparral, and valley
hardwood habitats. Prefers
washes and other sandy
areas with patches of brush
and rocks. Perennial plants
necessary for its major foodtermites.
Found in deserts and semiarid areas, with sparse
vegetation. Also found in
woodlands and riparian areas.
Substrate may be firm soil,
sand, or rocky.
Occurs in coastal sage scrub,
open chaparral, riparian
woodland, and annual
grassland habitats that
support adequate prey
species.
Low
Low
Moderate
Moderate
Moderate
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Scientific Name
STRIGIDAE
Athene cunicularia
Common Name
TRUE OWLS
Burrowing Owl
OLD WORLD
WARBLERS,
GNATCATCHERS
Polioptila californica californica Coastal California
Gnatcatcher
Status
Habitat
FSC, CSC Burrows in open, dry annual
or perennial grasslands,
deserts and scrublands
characterized by low-growing
vegetation. Subterranean
nester, dependent upon
burrowing mammals, most
notably, the California ground
squirrel.
Comments
Low
SYLVIIDAE
CLASS MAMMALIA
MAMMALS
CRICETIDAE
MICE, RATS, AND
VOLES
Neotoma lepida intermedia
San Diego Desert
Woodrat
Onychomys torridus
Southern Grasshopper
Mouse
VESPERTILIONIDAE
MOUSE-EARED BATS
Euderma maculatum
Spotted Bat
Nyctinomops macrotis
Big Free-tailed Bat
LEPORIDAE
Lepus californicus bennettii
RABBITS AND HARES
San Diego Black-tailed
Jackrabbit
Los Angeles Community College District
FT , CSC Obligate, permanent resident
of coastal sage scrub below
2,500 ft. in southern
California.
Moderate
FSC, CSC Occurs in moderate to dense
canopies, especially in rock
outcrops, rocky cliffs, and
slopes. Occurs in Southern
California from San Diego
County to San Luis Obispo
County.
FSC, CSC Prefers alkali desert scrub and
desert scrub habitats. Also
occurs in coastal scrub, mixed
chaparral, sagebrush, low
sage, and bitterbrush habitats.
Low
FSC, CSC Habitats range from arid
deserts and grasslands to
mixed conifer forests. Prefers
to roost in rock crevices.
CSC
Inhabitant of rugged, rocky
habitats in arid landscapes. It
has been found in a variety of
plant associations, including
desert shrub, woodlands, and
evergreen forests.
Low
FSC, CSC Occurs in areas with
intermediate canopy stages of
shrub habitats and open
shrub/herbaceous edges.
3.3-19
Low
Low
Low
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Scientific Name
Common Name
Status
Status Codes
Federal
FE
=
Federally listed; Endangered
FT
=
Federally listed; Threatened
FSC
=
Federal Species of Concern
State
ST
=
State listed; Threatened
SE
=
State listed; Endangered
CSC
=
California Species of Special Concern
*--Taxa that are biologically rare, very restricted in distribution, declining
throughout their range, or at a critical stage in their life cycle when residing in
California.
--Population(s) in California that may be peripheral to the major portion of a
taxon’s range, but which is threatened with extirpation within California.
-- Taxa closely associated with a habitat that is declining in California (e.g.,
wetlands, riparian, old growth forest).
Source:
California Natural Diversity Data Base (CNDDB) Agua Dulce, Canoga Park, Mint
Canyon, Newhall, Oat Mountain, San Fernando, Sunland, and Van Nuys
Quads.
Habitat
Comments
Potential for Occurrence (PFO)
Absent
Species distribution is restricted by substantive habitat
requirements, which do not occur within the study area,
and no further survey or study is obligatory to determine
likely presence or absence of this species within the
study area.
Low
Species distribution is restricted by substantive habitat
requirements, which marginally occur or are negligible
within the study area, and no further survey or study is
obligatory to determine likely presence or absence of this
species within the study area.
Moderate
Species distribution is restricted by substantive habitat
requirements, which partly or mostly occur within the
study area, and further survey or study is necessary to
determine likely presence or absence of species from the
study area.
High
Species distribution is restricted by substantive habitat
requirements, which predominantly occur within the study
area, and further survey or study is necessary to
determine likely presence or absence of species from the
study area.
Present
Species or species sign were observed to be present in
the study area.
Absent, Low, and Present categories correspond to a
recommendation of not conducting a focused survey. The
Moderate and High categories correspond to a
recommendation of conducting a focused survey.
•
Unarmored Threespine Stickleback (Gasterosteus aculeatus williamsoni)
•
Santa Ana Sucker (Catostomus santaanae)
•
Arroyo Chub (Gila orcutti)
•
Santa Ana Speckled Dace (Rhinichthys osculus)
•
Mountain Yellow-legged Frog (Rana muscosa)
•
Southwestern Pond Turtle (Emys marmorata pallida)
•
Silvery Legless Lizard (Anniella pulchra pulchra)
•
Two-striped Garter Snake (Thamnophis hammondii)
•
Cooper’s Hawk (Accipiter cooperii)
•
Western Yellow-billed Cuckoo (Coccyzus americanus occidentalis)
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•
Prairie Falcon (Falco mexicanus)
•
Tri-colored Backbird (Agelaius tricolor)
•
Southwestern Willow Flycatcher (Empidonax traillii extimus)
•
Least Bell's Vireo (Vireo bellii pusillus)
•
Western Yellow Bat (Lasiurus xanthinus)
•
Southern Grasshopper Mouse (Onychomys torridus ramona)
•
American Badger (Taxidea taxus)
The remaining 12 sensitive species, having at least a low potential of occurring on-site
are indicated as such in Table 3.3-3.
No sensitive wildlife species was observed on the LAMC or Harding Street parcels
during the general field survey (see Appendix A). Three sensitive species, the Cooper’s
Hawk, Yellow Warbler, and Yellow-breasted Chat were observed directly adjacent to the
north of the Harding Street parcels in a formerly-designated project area; however, these
species were not observed in the revised project study area during general surveys in
2006.30
Focused field surveys were also conducted during the breeding season (April to July) in
the previously-designated project area north of the Harding Street Parcels for the Coastal
California Gnatcatcher, Southwestern Willow Flycatcher, and Least Bell’s Vireo. No
Coastal California Gnatcatcher or Southwestern Willow Flycatcher was observed during
these focused surveys. Focused surveys for the Least Bell’s Vireo (LBVI), however,
located one individual male within the Southern Willow Scrub habitat to the north of the
Harding Street parcels (PCR 2005).31 The individual LBVI was observed during the first
two surveys in a series of eight surveys. The absence of this individual during the last six
surveys suggests that it continued its movement to more suitable habitat elsewhere.
Therefore, the habitat on-site does not appear to be suitable for breeding LBVI at this
time. LBVI is a federal- and state-listed Endangered Species and is migratory, and only
present in southern California during the breeding season between April and July. Details
regarding the focused field surveys can be found in PCR 2005. Although not observed
during focused surveys or general surveys in 2006, potential habitat for the Coastal
California Gnatcatcher exists within the Harding Street Parcels; however, there is no
suitable habitat available for the Southwestern Willow Flycatcher within these parcels.32
33
30
Ibid.
31
PCR Services Corporation. 2005. Biological Resource Assessment, for the Los Angeles Mission College Facilities
Master Plan and Public Recreation Improvement Plan, Los Angeles County, California
32
Ibid.
33
URS Corporation. 2006. Biological Resource Assessment, for the revised Los Angeles Mission College Facilities
Master Plan and Public Recreation Improvement Plan, Los Angeles County, California
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Because the production of this draft EIR occurs outside of the survey periods of some
sensitive wildlife species with potential to occur within the revised project area, focused
field surveys within the Harding Street parcels will be performed in the Spring (MarchApril) of 2007, and will follow applicable survey protocols. These focused field surveys
will determine which of the species with at least a moderate potential of occurrence
(Orange-throated Whiptail, Coastal Western Whiptail, San Diego Horned Lizard, or
Coastal California Gnatcatcher) or any other sensitive wildlife species, are located within
the Harding Street parcels.
3.3.3.8
Nesting Birds
The main campus portion of the LAMC project area has good potential to support
raptors, raptor nests, migratory bird species and their nests, due to the large number of
trees and shrubs. Although the two Harding Street parcels do not have large, dominant
crown class trees, there are some patches of vegetation that may support common bird
species which have the potential to forage and nest in the project area (Appendix A).
The LAMC and Harding Street study area is generally limited to an area that is disturbed,
developed, and lacks unique habitats (e.g., aquatic or riparian). The study area is not
likely to support special status plants or wildlife species as a result of its anthropogenic
disturbance regime and limited, degraded and disturbed native plant communities.
Furthermore, no special status animal or plant species have been detected within the
study area, so no impacts to these species would occur.
Nonetheless, temporary construction activities may include potential displacement of
common animals in the immediate vicinity of the study area due to project activities (e.g.,
noise, dust, and vibration resulting from construction-related activities). These impacts
would not be considered substantial because of the relatively small amount of native
functional habitat being affected by the project within this residential setting.
Furthermore, project activities may temporarily deter individual animals from utilizing
the relatively small project construction area for foraging; this impact would be limited to
the period of active construction and is not expected to result in any long term or
substantial changes in migration or foraging patterns. Additionally, project activities
would not destroy individual animals, nests, or cause mortality of nestling or adults, nor
will they affect annual production, so no impacts to these species would occur.
There is a potential for direct adverse impacts (e.g., mortality) to nesting birds if project
construction occurs during February 15 to August 31. Vegetation clearing prior to
construction activities would deter the majority of individuals from selecting nesting or
breeding substrates within the proposed construction area. Vegetation clearing activities
have the potential to result in direct take of species protected under Section 10 of the
Migratory Bird and CDFG Code 3500 (et seq.). Since these species may occur at the
project site, impacts would be significant.
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The majority of common plant and wildlife species likely to occur within the study area
also occur in large numbers throughout the region. As a result, it would not be anticipated
that the proposed project would result in a trend toward state or federal listing, apparent
changes in habitat availability, or loss of viability for any impacted species provided they
are not sensitive species. These impacts would therefore be less than significant.
Focused field surveys within the Harding Street parcels will be performed March 15 –
April 31st, 2007, and will follow applicable survey protocols. These focused field surveys
will determine which of the species with at least a moderate potential of occurrence
(Orange-throated Whiptail, Coastal Western Whiptail, San Diego Horned Lizard, or
Coastal California Gnatcatcher) or any other sensitive wildlife species, are located within
the Harding Street parcels. It is not anticipated that sensitive species will be present;
therefore no impacts are expected to occur.
3.3.3.9
Sensitive Plant Communities
The proposed project would result in the permanent removal of approximately 1.8 acres
of sensitive California Sagebrush-California Buckwheat Scrub within the Harding Street
parcels. This California Sagebrush-California Buckwheat Scrub mainly occurs along the
eastern and northern portion of the parcel, and mostly within the footprint of the proposed
Harding Street PE structure to be developed during Phase 1; however, depending on the
final building and landscape design plans, some of this vegetation may be left intact.
Therefore, the 1.8 acres of California Sagebrush-California Buckwheat Scrub represents
the maximum amount of vegetation that would be removed as a result of the proposed
project. Impacts on sensitive plant communities would be potentially significant if these
communities were to support sensitive plant species and sensitive wildlife species (e.g.,
the Coastal California Gnatcatcher). However, no sensitive wildlife species was observed
nesting or foraging within these vegetative communities during general biological
surveys. Additionally, no sensitive wildlife species is expected to be nesting or foraging
during spring protocol surveys because the fragmented and small patch size of the scrub
and surrounding development. Nonetheless, the development of this draft EIR did not
coincide with the blooming periods of most sensitive plant species with potential to occur
within the project study area. As a result, focused botanical surveys for the Harding Street
Parcels will be performed during the appropriate 2007 blooming periods, and will follow
applicable survey protocols. These focused field surveys will determine which of the
species with at least a moderate potential of occurrence, or any other sensitive plant
species, are located within the Harding Street parcels. It is not anticipated that sensitive
species will be present. Therefore, impacts on these communities are expected to be less
than significant and no mitigation measures would be required.
3.3.3.10
Sensitive Plant Species
The proposed project would result in the permanent removal of 6.4 acres of Disturbed
Vegetation, 2.4 acres Non-native Grassland, and a maximum of 1.8 acres of California
Sagebrush-California Buckwheat Scrub from within the Harding Street parcels. Although
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focused surveys for sensitive plants have not yet been conducted within the Harding
Street parcels, the occurrence of sensitive plants is not expected because of the current
disturbed and graded condition of the Harding Street parcels, the lack of suitable habitat,
and lack of sensitive plant species observed during surveys conducted on adjacent
parcels.
Based on the information collected from the databases, and other available information,
sensitive plant species are not expected to occur, and impacts would be less than
significant. This conclusion will be confirmed in focused sensitive plant surveys
conducted March - April 2007. In the event that sensitive species are discovered, the
California and Federal Endangered Species Acts would require the District to obtain
Endangered Species Act permits from the Department of Fish and Game and/or U.S. Fish
and Wildlife Service. (Fish & Game Code, § 2081; 16 U.S.C. § 1539(a) (2) (A).) Those
agencies can only grant an incidental take permit if the proposed project would not
jeopardize the continued existence of the species. Additionally, such permits typically
require implementation of mitigation measures devised by the agencies specifically for
the project and species. Therefore, compliance with the Federal and California
Endangered Species Act will ensure that impacts to sensitive species will be less than
significant, and compliance with those requirements is sufficient mitigation under CEQA.
3.3.3.11
Sensitive Wildlife Species
The proposed project would result in the permanent removal of 1.8 acres of sensitive
California Sagebrush-California Buckwheat Scrub within the Harding Street parcels,
which may function as suitable habitat for some sensitive wildlife species. In addition,
four sensitive wildlife species were identified with at least a moderate potential to occur
within the project site or vicinity: Orange-throated Whiptail, Coastal Western Whiptail,
San Diego Horned Lizard, and Coastal California Gnatcatcher. In addition, the Cooper’s
Hawk, Yellow Warbler, and Yellow-Breasted Chat, and Least Bell’s Vireo were
observed adjacent to the project area (PCR 2005).
Although focused surveys for Coastal California Gnatcatcher (Federally Threatened,
California Species of Concern) have not yet been conducted within the Harding Street
parcels, no individuals of this species are expected to be found based on the information
collected from the databases, and other available information including the current
disturbed nature of the site, the Coastal California Gnatcatcher is not expected to occur,
and impacts would be less than significant. This conclusion will be confirmed in focused
sensitive wildlife surveys conducted March 15 - April 31st, 2007. In the event that the
Coastal California Gnatcatcher is discovered, the California and Federal Endangered
Species Acts would require the District to obtain Endangered Species Act permits from
the Department of Fish and Game and/or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. (Fish & Game
Code, § 2081; 16 U.S.C. § 1539(a) (2) (A).) Those agencies can only grant an incidental
take permit if the proposed project would not jeopardize the continued existence of the
species. Additionally, such permits typically require implementation of mitigation
measures devised by the agencies specifically for the project and species. Therefore,
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compliance with the Federal and California Endangered Species Act will ensure that
impacts to sensitive species will be less than significant, and compliance with those
requirements is sufficient mitigation under CEQA.
Focused surveys for the Least Bell’s Vireo directly to the north of the Harding Street
Parcels indicated the presence of one individual male within Southern Willow Scrub
Habitat (PCR 2005); no Southwestern Willow Flycatcher was observed. The Least Bell’s
Vireo and Southwestern Willow Flycatcher are both Federal- and State-listed Endangered
species. Potentially suitable habitat for the Least Bell’s Vireo and Southwestern Willow
Flycatcher is not found with the study area. However, potentially suitable habitat does
occur to the east of the Harding Street parcel within the Pacoima Wash. Impacts on Least
Bell’s Vireo and Southwestern Willow Flycatcher within adjacent areas would be
considered indirect. Although the project would not result in a direct impact on the Least
Bell’s Vireo or Southwestern Willow Flycatcher, additional indirect impacts from
increased noise and night lighting in association with the proposed project could
potentially distress these species. Therefore, indirect impacts on the Least Bell’s Vireo
and Southwestern Willow Flycatcher are considered potentially significant. Nonetheless,
preconstruction nesting bird and raptor surveys would identify species presence and
implementation of CDFG and/or USFWS approved mitigation measures would ensure
that potentially significant impacts on the Least Bell’s Vireo and South Western Willow
Flycatcher are reduced to a less than significant level.
Focused surveys for the San Diego Horned Lizard and Orange-throated Whiptail, both
California Species of Concern, have not yet been conducted, but will be conducted in
March, 2007. Based on the information collected from the databases, and other available
information including the current disturbed nature of the site, these species are not
expected to occur, and impacts would be less than significant. This conclusion will be
confirmed in focused sensitive wildlife surveys conducted March, 2007. In the event that
the San Diego Horned Lizard and Orange-throated Whiptail are discovered, the
California and Federal Endangered Species Acts would require the District to obtain
Endangered Species Act permits from the Department of Fish and Game and/or U.S. Fish
and Wildlife Service. (Fish & Game Code, § 2081; 16 U.S.C. § 1539(a) (2) (A).) Those
agencies can only grant an incidental take permit if the proposed project would not
jeopardize the continued existence of the species. Additionally, such permits typically
require implementation of mitigation measures devised by the agencies specifically for
the project and species. Therefore, compliance with the Federal and California
Endangered Species Act will ensure that impacts to sensitive species will be less than
significant, and compliance with those requirements is sufficient mitigation under CEQA.
The Coastal Western Whiptail has no State or Federal Listing status. Due to the current
status of these species, any loss of these individuals or their habitat would likely not
threaten the regional population. Therefore, removal of individuals and associated
suitable habitat represents an adverse, but less than significant impact on regional
populations of these species. As such, no mitigation measures would be required.
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3.3.3.12
Cumulative Impacts
The proposed project will contribute to the ongoing loss of plant communities and animal
species within the urbanized region. This loss is considered adverse, but not significant
on either a site-specific or cumulative level because of the existing disturbance and
associated infrastructure in the project vicinity. Cumulative impacts are minimal due to
the non-native origin and current disturbance of the majority of the affected communities.
When measured against the CEQA thresholds, the loss of 1.8 acres of California
Sagebrush-California Buckwheat Scrub would not drop this habitat type below selfperpetuating levels in the region. Due to the small amount being affected within the
region, and the disturbed and fragmented nature of the habitat on-site within an urban
setting, cumulative impacts on California Sagebrush-California Buckwheat Scrub are
considered less than significant. Furthermore, the presence of similar habitat within
Pacoima Wash and San Gabriel Mountains will provide long-term habitat for similar
species occurring on-site.
3.3.4 Mitigation Measures
BIO-1 The District shall mitigate any potential significant impacts on any Federally- or
State-listed Threatened or Endangered Species found within the project area during
planned 2007 protocol surveys in accordance with a USFWS approved mitigation plan to
be developed in consultation with USFWS, prior to Phase I development. If the 2007
focused survey results dictate, the previously approved mitigation plan shall be
implemented. The mitigation plan may include, but is not necessarily limited to, the
following:
•
Additional on-site preservation in the form of habitat buffers;
•
On-site habitat enhancement and restoration;
•
The minimization of indirect impacts, such as noise and night lighting
(using temporal or physical barriers); and
•
Construction monitoring
BIO-2 The District shall make efforts to schedule any vegetation removal activities (i.e.,
grading) outside the nesting season (the nesting season is February 15 to August 15) to
avoid potential impacts on nesting birds. Prior to vegetation clearing a qualified biologist
will conduct a nesting bird and raptor survey. For these purposes, a qualified biologist
would be any individual with sufficient education and field experience in local southern
California ecology and biology to adequately identify local plant and wildlife species.
The surveys shall occur within 72 hours prior to initiation of construction activities to
document that no occupied passerines and raptor nests would be impacted from project
implementation. If any active nests are detected, a buffer of at least 100 feet shall be
delineated, flagged, and avoided until the nesting cycle is complete, as determined by the
biological monitor.
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3.3.5 Level of Significance after Mitigation
Implementation of the above mitigation measures would reduce potentially significant
impacts to biological resources to a less than significant level.
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