Habitat Assessment and MSHCP Consistency Analysis

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TEMESCAL VALLEY TOSCANA VILLAGE

CORONA, RIVERSIDE COUNTY, CALIFORNIA

Prepared For:

Ruth Villalobos & Associates, Inc. 3602 Inland Empire Blvd., Suite C310 Ontario, California 91764 Contact: Ms. Ruth Villalobos

Prepared By:

Contact: Thomas J. McGill, Ph.D. 951.285.6014

Report and Survey Prepared By: Travis J. McGill, Biologist

October 2013 Updated January 2017

TEMESCAL VALLEY TOSCANA VILLAGE

CORONA, RIVERSIDE COUNTY, CALIFORNIA

Habitat Assessment and MSHCP Consistency Analysis

The undersigned certify that the statements furnished in this report and exhibits present data and information required for this biological evaluation, and the facts, statements, and information presented is a complete and accurate account of the findings and conclusions to the best of our knowledge and beliefs.

Travis J. McGill Biologist Natural Resources

Thomas J. McGill, Ph.D. Vice President Natural Resources

October 2013 Updated January 2017

Executive Summary

The approximate 27.11-Acre Temescal Valley Toscana Village project is located in the City of Corona, Riverside County, California. The project site is located within the jurisdiction of the Western Riverside County Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (MSHCP). Specifically, the project site is located in Subunit 1: Estelle Mountain/Indian Canyon of the Elsinore Area Plan. The proposed project is primarily located in Criteria Cell 3448 with portions of the project site extending into Criteria Cells 3349 and 3350. These cells contribute to the assembly of the Proposed Extension of Existing Core 2 which consists of habitat associated with Temescal Canyon Wash and adjacent upland areas. The primary goal of this Cell group will focus on riparian scrub, woodland, forest, and Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub habitat associated with Temescal Wash and provides habitat for species listed in Section 4.3.3 and 4.3.4 above, and also provides for movement of species.

Nine (9) plant communities were observed within the boundaries of the project site during the habitat assessment: annual grassland; Riversidean sage scrub (RSS); southern cottonwood willow riparian forest; coast live oak riparian forest; mulefat scrub; wetland; eucalyptus woodland; disturbed; and developed.

Based on the 2013 Jurisdictional Delineation Report, the project applicant will be required to obtain the following regulatory approvals: Untied States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Clean Water Act (CWA) Section 404 Nationwide Permit No. 39: Commercial and Institutional Developments; a Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB) CWA Section 401 Water Quality Certification; and a California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) Section 1602 Streambed Alteration Agreement (SAA). Separate from the regulatory permits, a Determination of Biologically Equivalent or Superior Preservation (DBESP) analysis will need to be prepared to address the loss of the riparian/riverine habitat under the MSHCP. It should be noted that the project site is no longer located within federally designated Critical Habitat.

Based on habitat requirements for specific species, availability and quality of habitats needed by sensitive plant species, it was determined that the project site does not provide suitable habitat for MSHCP Narrow Endemic or Criteria Area plant species. A focused survey was conducted in 2012 for sensitive plant species on the proposed project site and was negative. Since current site conditions have not changed since the 2012 focused survey, based on the 2013 habitat assessment, it can be presumed that MSHCP Narrow Endemic and Criteria Area plant species are absent from the project site.

Temescal Valley Toscana Village Habitat Assessment and MSCHP Consistency Analysis ES-1 Executive Summary

Least Bell’s vireo (Vireo bellii pusillus; LBVI) is known to nest within Temescal Creek, which is located approximately 800-feet from the riparian habitat on the project site. LBVI is an edge species and could migrate onto the project site. In accordance with the USFWS least Bell’s vireo survey guidelines, all riparian areas and any other potential vireo habitats within the project boundaries were surveyed at eight (8) times between April 10 and July 31, at least ten (10) days apart. Biologist Travis J. McGill conducted eight focused LBVI surveys on May 9, May 19, May, 29, June 8, June 19, June 29, July 12, and July 26, 2014. All surveys were conducted between the hours of 0600 and 1000. No LBVI were observed during these surveys and LBVI can be presumed to be absent from the project site.

Temescal Valley Toscana Village Habitat Assessment and MSCHP Consistency Analysis ES-2

Table of Contents

Executive Summary ...... ES-1 Section 1 Introduction ...... 1 1.1 Project Location...... 1 1.2 Project Description ...... 1 Section 2 Methodology ...... 6 2.1 Western Riverside County MSHCP Consistency Analysis ...... 6 2.2 Literature Review ...... 6 2.3 Habitat Assessment and Field Investigation ...... 7 2.4 Soil Series Assessment ...... 8 2.5 Plant Communities ...... 8 2.6 Plants ...... 8 2.7 Wildlife ...... 8 2.8 Riparian / Riverine Habitat and Jurisdictional Areas ...... 8 2.9 Stephen’s Kangaroo Rat Habitat Conservation Plan ...... 9 Section 3 Existing Conditions ...... 10 3.1 Local Climate ...... 10 3.2 Topography and Soils ...... 10 3.3 Surrounding Land Uses ...... 12 Section 4 Discussion ...... 13 4.1 Site Conditions ...... 13 4.2 Vegetation ...... 13 4.2.1 Annual Grasslands ...... 15 4.2.2 Riversidean Sage Scrub ...... 15 4.2.3 Riparian ...... 15 4.2.3.1 Southern Cottonwood Willow Riparian Forest ...... 16 4.2.3.2 Coast Live Oak Riparian Forest ...... 16 4.2.3.3 Mulefat Scrub ...... 16 4.2.4 Wetland ...... 16 4.2.5 Eucalyptus Woodland ...... 16

Temescal Valley Toscana Village Habitat Assessment and MSHCP Consistency Analysis i Table of Contents

4.2.6 Disturbed ...... 17 4.2.7 Developed ...... 17 4.3 Wildlife ...... 17 4.3.1 Amphibians...... 17 4.3.2 Reptiles ...... 18 4.3.3 Avian ...... 18 4.3.4 Mammals ...... 18 4.4 Nesting Birds ...... 19 4.5 Migratory Corridors and Linkages ...... 19 4.6 Jurisdictional Areas ...... 20 4.6.1 Critical Habitat ...... 20 4.7 Sensitive Biological Resources ...... 21 4.7.1 Sensitive Plants ...... 23 4.7.2 Sensitive Wildlife ...... 23 4.7.2.1 Burrowing Owl ...... 23 4.7.2.2 California Gnatcatcher ...... 24 4.7.2.3 Least Bell’s Vireo ...... 24 4.7.3 Sensitive Habitats ...... 25 4.8 Stephen’s Kangaroo Rat ...... 25 Section 5 Western Riverside County MSHCP Consistnecy Analysis ...... 26 5.1 MSHCP Requirements ...... 26 5.1.1 MSHCP Areas ...... 26 5.1.2 MSHCP Survey Requirements ...... 26 5.2 Habitat Assessment Results ...... 28 5.2.1 Burrowing Owl ...... 28 5.2.2 Least Bell’s Vireo ...... 28 5.2.3 Narrow Endemic Plant Species ...... 29 5.2.3.1 2012 Focused Survey Results ...... 31 5.2.4 Criteria Area Plant Species ...... 32 5.2.4.1 2012 Focused Survey Results ...... 34 5.3 Jurisdictional Drainages, Riparian / Riverine Areas and Vernal Pools ...... 34 5.4 Urban / Wildlands Interface Guidelines ...... 35 5.4.1 Drainage ...... 36

Temescal Valley Toscana Village Habitat Assessment and MSHCP Consistency Analysis ii Table of Contents

5.4.2 Toxics ...... 36 5.4.3 Lighting ...... 36 5.4.4 Noise ...... 36 5.4.5 Invasive Plant Species ...... 37 5.4.6 Barriers ...... 37 5.4.7 Grading/Land Development ...... 37 5.4.8 Fuels Management ...... 37 Section 6 Habitat Acquisition Nand Negotiation Strategy (HANS) Review ...... 38 Section 7 Recommendations ...... 39 7.1 MSHCP Criteria Cell ...... 39 7.2 Habitat Assessment ...... 39 7.3 Urban Wildlands Interface Guidelines ...... 40 7.4 Riparian / Riverine Area ...... 40 7.5 Migratory Bird Treaty Act / CDFW Code ...... 40 Section 8 Conclusions ...... 42 Section 9 References ...... 43

Temescal Valley Toscana Village Habitat Assessment and MSHCP Consistency Analysis iii Table of Contents

EXHIBITS

Exhibit 1: Regional Vicinity ...... 2 Exhibit 2: Site Vicinity ...... 3 Exhibit 3: Project Site...... 4 Exhibit 4: Depiction of Proposed Project ...... 5 Exhibit 5: Soils ...... 11 Exhibit 6: Vegetation...... 14 Exhibit 7: Critical Habitat ...... 22 Exhibit 8: MSHCP Criteria Area ...... 27

TABLES

Table 1: Plant Communities ...... 13 Table 2: Jurisdictional Summary ...... 20 Table 3: Riparian/Riverine/Wetland Habitat and Impact Summary ...... 35

APPENDIX

Appendix A RCIP Conservation Summary Report Appendix B Site Photographs Appendix C Sensitive Habitats and Potentially Occurring Sensitive Plant and Wildlife Species Appendix D Flora and Fauna Compendium Appendix E April 2012 Osborne Biological Consulting Survey for Burrowing Owl; Survey for Hammitt’s Clay-cress, Many-stemmed Dudleya, Munz’s Onion, and Round-leaved Filaree; MSHCP Consistency Analysis Appendix F Riverside County Planning Department Checklist and Letter for HANS Application Appendix G Regulatory Background

Temescal Valley Toscana Village Habitat Assessment and MSHCP Consistency Analysis iv Table of Contents

LIST OF ACRONYMS

APN Assessor’s Parcel Number BMP Best Management Practices CAGN California Gnatcatcher CDFW California Department of Fish and Wildlife CNDDB California Natural Diversity Database CNPS California Native Plant Society CWA Clean Water Act DBESP Determination of Biologically Equivalent or Superior Preservation GIS Geographic Information System GPS Ground Positioning System HANS Habitat Acquisition Negotiation Strategy JPR Joint Project Review LBVI Least Bell’s Vireo MBTA Migratory Bird Treaty Act MSHCP Western Riverside County Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan NRCS Natural Resources Conservation Service RBF RBF Consulting RCA Riverside Conservation Authority RCIP Riverside County Integrated Project RSS Riversidean Sage Scrub RWQCB Regional Water Quality Control Board SAA Streambed Alteration Agreement USACE United States Army Corp of Engineers USDA United States Department of Agriculture USFWS United States Fish and Wildlife Service USGS United States Geological Survey

Temescal Valley Toscana Village Habitat Assessment and MSHCP Consistency Analysis v

Section 1 Introduction

This report contains the findings of a Habitat Assessment and MSHCP Consistency Analysis, and Habitat Acquisition Negotiation Strategy (HANS) review for the Temescal Valley Toscana Village project located in Corona, California. The approximate 27.11-Acre Temescal Valley Toscana Village project is hereinafter referred to as project site or site. This report serves as an update to April 2012 survey for burrowing owl (Athene cunicularia), Hammitt’s clay-cress (Sibaropsis hammittii), many- stemmed dudleya (Dudleya multicaulis), Munz’s onion (Allium munzii), and round-leaved filaree (California macrophylla) prepared by Osborne Biological Consulting (Appendix D). This habitat assessment was conducted by biologist Travis J. McGill and regulatory analyst Thomas C. Millington on August 26 and September, 5 2013 to document baseline conditions and to identify sensitive habitats and/or species potentially occurring within the boundaries of the project site that could pose a constraint to development. A delineation of State and federal jurisdictional waters was prepared under separate cover.

1.1 PROJECT LOCATION

The project site is generally located east of the Santa Ana Mountains, west of Estelle Mountain, south of State Route 91 and north of State Route 74 in Corona, Riverside County, California (Exhibit 1, Regional Vicinity). The project site is depicted on the Lake Mathews and Alberhill United States Geological Survey (USGS) 7.5-minute quadrangles in Section 12, Township 5 south, Range 6 west (Exhibit 2, Site Vicinity). Specifically, the project site is located on the northwest corner of Temescal Canyon Road and Indian Truck Trail in Assessor’s Parcel Number’s (APN) 290-130-003 through - 006, and -052 through -055 (Exhibit 3, Project Site).

1.2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION

The approximately 27.11-acre project site will be divided into three (3) parcels: Parcel 1, 5.06-acres; Parcel 2, 9.40-acres; and Parcel 3, 12.65-acres (Exhibit 4, Depiction of Proposed Project). Buildings proposed to be developed on Parcel 1 consist of retail/shops, gas station/convenience store, and fast food. Parcel 2 and 3 are proposed to be developed with industrial buildings.

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Section 2 Methodology

A literature review and records search was conducted to determine which sensitive biological resources have the potential to occur on the project site or within the general vicinity. In addition, a general habitat assessment of the project site was conducted. The field survey provided information of the existing conditions on the site and potential for sensitive biological resources to occur.

2.1 WESTERN RIVERSIDE COUNTY MSHCP CONSISTENCY ANALYSIS

The approximate 27.11-acre Temescal Valley Toscana Village project was reviewed to determine consistency with the MSHCP. Geographic Information System (GIS) software was utilized to map the project site in relation to MSHCP areas including Criteria Cells (core habitat and wildlife movement corridors) and areas proposed for conservation. The Riverside County Integrated Project (RCIP) Conservation Summary Report Generator was queried to determine if the MSHCP lists potential survey requirements for the project site (Appendix A).

The MSHCP also requires that an assessment be completed, of the potentially significant effects of the project on riparian/riverine areas, and vernal pools. According to the MSHCP, the documentation for the assessment shall include mapping and a description of the functions and values of the mapped areas with respect to the species listed in Section 6.1.2, protection of species associated with riparian/riverine areas and vernal pools.

2.2 LITERATURE REVIEW

Prior to conducting the field visit, a literature review and records search was conducted for sensitive biological resources potentially occurring on or within the vicinity of the project site. Previously recorded occurrences of special status plant and wildlife species and their proximity to the project site were determined through a query of the CDFWCalifornia Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB) Rarefind 4, the California Native Plant Society’s (CNPS) Electronic Inventory of rare and Endangered Vascular Plants of California, Calflora Database, compendia of special-status species published by CDFW, and United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) species listings.

Literature detailing biological resources previously observed in the vicinity of the project site and historical land uses were reviewed to understand the extent of disturbances to the habitats onsite. Standard field guides and texts on sensitive and non-sensitive biological resources were reviewed for habitat requirements, as well as the following resources:

 CDFW 2012 Staff Report on Burrowing Owl Mitigation  United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS), Soil Survey;

Temescal Valley Toscana Village Habitat Assessment and MSHCP Consistency Analysis 6 Methodology

 USFWS Critical Habitat designations for Threatened and Endangered Species;  USFWS Endangered Species Profile and Primary Constituent Elements for California Gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica californica);  USFWS Endangered Species Profile and Primary Constituent Elements for Least Bell’s Vireo; and  Western Riverside County MSHCP and RCIP Conservation Summary Report.

The literature review provided a baseline from which to inventory the biological resources potentially occurring on the project site. Additional recorded occurrences of these species found on or near the project site were derived from database queries. The CNDDB ArcGIS database was used, together with ArcGIS software, to locate the nearest occurrence and determine the distance from the project site.

2.3 HABITAT ASSESSMENT AND FIELD INVESTIGATION

Biologist, Travis J. McGill, and regulatory analyst, Thomas C. Millington, inventoried and evaluated the extent and conditions of the plant communities found within the boundaries of the approximate 27.11-acre Temescal Valley Toscana Village project on August 26 and September 5, 2013. Plant communities identified on aerial photographs during the literature review were ground-truthed by walking meandering transects through the plant communities and along boundaries between plant communities. The plant communities were evaluated for their potential to support sensitive plant and wildlife species as well as the identification of riparian/riverine habitat, and corridors and linkages that may support the movement of wildlife through the area.

Special attention was paid to sensitive habitats and/or undeveloped, natural areas having a higher potential to support sensitive flora and fauna species. Areas providing suitable habitat for burrowing owl were closely surveyed for suitable burrows during the habitat assessment, consisting of natural and non-natural substrates in areas with low, open vegetation. Methods to detect the presence of burrowing owl included direct observation, aural detection, and signs of presence including pellets, white wash, feathers, or prey remains. The location of remnant and occupied burrows/nests were documented, if found. In addition, the project site was closely examined for its potential to provide suitable habitat for the MSHCP Narrow Endemic and Criteria Area plant species listed in Section 1 above.

All plant and wildlife species observed, as well as dominant plant species within each plant community, were recorded. Notes were taken during the survey of all plant and wildlife species observed and potential jurisdictional features were identified. Observations of wildlife species included scat, trails, tracks, burrows, nests, visual and aural observation. In addition, site characteristics such as soil condition, topography, presence of indicator species, condition of the plant communities, hydrology, and evidence of human use of the site were noted. The plant communities were classified in accordance with CDFW (2003) and Holland (1986), delineated on an aerial

Temescal Valley Toscana Village Habitat Assessment and MSHCP Consistency Analysis 7 Methodology

photograph, and then digitized into GIS Arcview. The Arcview application was used to compute the area of each plant community in acres.

2.4 SOIL SERIES ASSESSMENT

On-site and adjoining soils were researched prior to the field visit using the USDA NRCS Soil Survey for Riverside County, California. In addition, a review of the local geological conditions and historical aerial photographs was conducted to assess the ecological changes the project site has undergone.

2.5 PLANT COMMUNITIES

Plant communities were mapped using 7.5-minute USGS topographic base maps and aerial photography. The plant communities within the project site were classified according to CDFW’s List of Terrestrial Natural Communities (2003) and cross-referenced to descriptions provided in Holland’s Preliminary Descriptions of the Terrestrial Natural Communities of California (1986). The CDFW does not currently have a narrative description of the vegetation communities; therefore, the descriptions provided are according to Holland.

2.6 PLANTS

Common plant species observed during the field survey were identified by visual characteristics and morphology in the field, and recorded in a field notebook. Unusual and less familiar plants were identified in the laboratory using taxonomical guides. Taxonomic nomenclature used in this study follows the 2012 Jepson Manual. In this report, scientific names are provided immediately following common names of plant species (first reference only).

2.7 WILDLIFE

Wildlife species detected during field surveys by sight, calls, tracks, scat, or other sign were recorded during surveys in a field notebook. Field guides were used to assist with identification of species during surveys and included the National Geographic Field Guide to the Birds of North America (2011) for birds and Burt and Grossenheider (1980) for mammals. Although common names of wildlife species are fairly well standardized, scientific names are provided immediately following common names in this report (first reference only).

2.8 RIPARIAN / RIVERINE HABITAT AND JURISDICTIONAL AREAS

Aerial photography was reviewed prior to conducting the habitat assessment. The aerials were used to locate and inspect any potential natural drainage features and water bodies that may be considered riparian/riverine habitat and/or fall under the jurisdiction of the USACE, RWQCB, or CDFW. In general, surface drainage features indicated as blue-line streams on USGS maps that are observed or

Temescal Valley Toscana Village Habitat Assessment and MSHCP Consistency Analysis 8 Methodology

expected to exhibit evidence of flow are considered potential riparian/riverine habitat and are also subject to state and federal regulatory authorities.

2.9 STEPHEN’S KANGAROO RAT HABITAT CONSERVATION PLAN

Separate from the consistency review against the requirements of the Western Riverside County’s MSHCP, the proposed project site is also within the boundary established by the County in 1996 for protecting the Stephens’ Kangaroo Rat (Dipodomys stephensi) (SKR), a federally and state listed species that is not covered under the MSHCP. Instead, SKR is protected by the SKR Habitat Conservation Plan (SKR HCP) (County Ordinance No. 663.10). The proposed project is located within the Fee Assessment Area for SKR.

Temescal Valley Toscana Village Habitat Assessment and MSHCP Consistency Analysis 9

Section 3 Existing Conditions

3.1 LOCAL CLIMATE

Riverside County features a somewhat cooler version of a Mediterranean climate with cool to chilly winters and hot, dry summers. Relative to other areas in Southern California, winters are colder with frost and with chilly to cold morning temperatures common. Summer is also a lot warmer. In the winter, snow flurries occur upon occasion. Riverside gets an average of 16 inches of rain, hail, or light snow showers each year. The seasonal Santa Ana winds are felt particularly strongly in the area as warm and dry air is channeled through the Cajon Pass at times during the autumn months. This phenomenon markedly increases the wildfire danger in the foothill, canyon, and mountain communities that the cycle of cold wet winters and dry summers helps create. Weather conditions during the surveys included temperatures in the mid 80°F and winds were minimal with scattered clouds present overhead.

3.2 TOPOGRAPHY AND SOILS

On-site topography ranges from approximately 560 to 565 feet above mean sea level and generally slopes to the south with no areas of significant topographic relief. Surface soils have been mechanically disturbed from surrounding development and ongoing fire abatement activities. In general, surface soils are moderately well drained consisting of a single soils series, Placentia fine sandy loam (0-5 %) (Exhibit 5, Soils):

Surface elevations range from approximately 1,078 to 1,215 feet above mean sea level (msl) with areas of greater topographic relief located along the western boundary of the project site. Based on the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Soil Survey, the project site is underlain by the following soil units: Altamont Clay (15 to 25 Percent Slopes Eroded); Cortina Gravelly Coarse Sandy Loam (2 to 8 Percent Slopes); Gorgonio Loamy Sand (0 to 8 Percent Slopes); Ramona Sandy Loam (0 to 5 Percent Slopes, Eroded); Ramona Sandy Loam (5 to 8 Percent Slopes, Severely Eroded); Ramona Sandy Loam (8 to 15 Percent Slopes, Eroded); and Terrace Escarpments. Refer to Exhibit 5, Soils Map.

Altamont Clay (15 to 25 Percent Slopes, Eroded) The Altamont series is underlain by soft, fine-grained sandstone and calcareous siltstone and consists of well-drained soils on uplands. This soil is used for dryland grain, pasture, and range. Runoff is medium on this soil, and the hazard of erosion is moderate.

Cortina Gravelly Coarse Sandy Loam (2 to 8 Percent Slopes) The Cortina series is comprised of somewhat excessively drained and excessively drained soils on alluvial fans and in valley fills. These soils formed in alluvium from metasedimentary rocks and

Temescal Valley Toscana Village Habitat Assessment and MSHCP Consistency Analysis 10 Legend

Project Boundary

Altamont Clay (8.2 Acres)

Cortina Gravelly Coarse Sandy Loam (0.4 Acres)

Gorgonio Loamy Sand (2.4 Acres)

Ramona Sandy Loam (9.6 Acres)

Te r race Escarpments (5.6 Acres)

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range from 600 to 2,000 feet above msl. These soils are used for dryland pasture, grain, and range, and for irrigated citrus.

Gorgonio Loamy Sand (0 to 8 Percent Slopes) The Gorgonio series consists of somewhat excessively drained to excessively drained soils that developed in alluvium consists mainly of granitic materials. This soil has a loamy sand surface layer and has a very rapid permeability. Runoff is slow and the hazard for erosion is slight.

Ramona Sandy Loam (0 to 15 Percent Slopes, Eroded to Severely Eroded) The Ramona series consists of well-drained soils on alluvial fans and terraces. These soils developed in alluvium consisting mainly of granitic materials and range in elevation from 500 to 3,500 feet above msl. Runoff ranges from medium to rapid and the hazard for erosion ranges from moderate to high. Included with these soils are small areas that have a gravelly sandy loam surface layer and/or have a substratum of loamy sand.

Terrace Escarpments Terrace Escarpments consist of variable alluvium on terraces or barrancas. This land type may have exposed “rim pan”, gravel, cobble, stones, or large boulders in variable quantities and consists of unaltered alluvial outwash derived from granite, gabbro, metamorphosed sandstone, sandstone, or mica-schist. Slopes range from 30 to 75 percent.

3.3 SURROUNDING LAND USES

The proposed project is located on a narrow strip of land between Interstate 15 (I-15) and Temescal Canyon Road in a relatively undeveloped area of the City of Corona. Transportation uses border the project site to the west, east, and south. (I-15, Temescal Canyon Road, and Indian Truck Trail, respectively). Areas to the west of I-15 consist of residential, commercial, and industrial land uses. Corona Lake and associated recreational land uses are located to the southeast. Areas to the east of the project site consist of vacant, undeveloped land extending up to Estelle Mountain. Immediately east of the project site and east of Temescal Canyon Road is a small mountain peak that separates the project site from the Temescal Canyon Wash. The wash flows around the eastern side of the mountain in a northerly direction and briefly crosses Temescal Canyon Road (north of the project site) as it maintains its northerly course.

Temescal Valley Toscana Village Habitat Assessment and MSHCP Consistency Analysis 12

Section 4 Discussion

4.1 SITE CONDITIONS

The project site consists of vacant land that varies in levels of disturbance. The southern two thirds of the project site primarily consists of annual grasslands that have historically been subject to grading activities and human disturbance with isolated patches of Riversidean Sage Scrub on terrace slopes. There is also an unnamed ephemeral drainage (Drainage 1) that supports a fragmented mulefat scrub plant community along the eastern boundary. This drainage feature runs south to north and parallels Temescal Canyon Road.

The northern half of the project site has been subject to high levels of human disturbance. Historically, the majority of the northern half of the project site was used, based on historic aerial photographs, as a storage yard. This storage yard was located in a recessed area near Drainage 4 (a blue line stream) that traverses the project site from west to east. Currently, this area is no longer utilized as a storage area, but the vegetation has been heavily disturbed. Additionally, on top of the recessed area along the northern boundary is an area that has been graded and leveled with little to no vegetation. On the northwestern corner of the project site is an ephemeral drainage feature (Drainage 6) that extends from the western boundary of the project site via an earthern channel. This drainage feature then becomes riprap lined as it generally flows in a northern direction into Temescal Canyon Wash through a coast live oak riparian forest.

4.2 VEGETATION

Nine (9) plant communities were observed within the boundaries of the project site during the habitat assessment (Exhibit 5, Vegetation): annual grassland; Riversidean sage scrub (RSS); southern cottonwood willow riparian forest; coast live oak riparian forest; mulefat scrub; wetland; eucalyptus woodland; disturbed; and developed. These plant communities are identified in Table 1 and described in further detail below.

Table 1: Plant Communities Plant Community Acreage Percentage Annual Grassland 10.06 37.11 Riversidean Sage Scrub 7.03 25.93 Southern Cottonwood Willow Riparian Forest 0.28 1.03 Coast Live Oak Riparian Forest 0.03 0.11 Mulefat Scrub 0.1 0.37 Wetland 0.01 0.03 Eucalyptus Woodland 0.2 0.74 Disturbed 9.1 33.57 Developed 0.3 1.11 Total 27.11 100%

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Annual Grassland (9.7 Acres) Disturbed (7.8 Acres)

Riversidean Sage Scrub (7.0 Acres) Dirt Access Road (1.2 Acres)

Southern Cottonwood Willow Riparian Forest (0.3 Acres) !P Oak Tree

Coast Live Oak Riparian Forest (0.03)

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4.2.1 Annual Grasslands

The project site primarily consists of an annual grassland plant community dominated by non-native grasses and forbs. These open fields are found on the southern two thirds of the project site on the hillside along the western boundary. Dominant plant species found in this plant community include Bromus and Avena species. Other plant species include short-podded mustard (Hirschfeldia incana), prickly lettuce (Lactuca serriola), and tocalote (Centaurea melitensis).

4.2.2 Riversidean Sage Scrub

The RSS plant community is found on steep terrace slopes along the western boundary of the proejct site, on the steep slopes of the recessed area in the northern third, and on small slopes in the southern two thirds of the project site. The RSS plant community is in varying levels of disturbance and some areas have been restored. This plant community is dominated by California sagebrush (Artemisia californica), and California buckwheat (Eriogonum fasciculatum). Other plant species found in this plant community include deerweed (Acmispon glaber), white sage (Salvia apiana), brittlebush (Encelia farinosa), goldenbush (Isocoma menziesii), and tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus).

The restored RSS habitat is a 1.1-acre area within the southeastern end of the project site. Prior to the current owner, Speedway Development, acquiring the property, the former owner received a notice of violation (BHR090104) from the County of Riverside for illegal grading and was required to restore the contours, provide the necessary BMP’s to control erosion and revegetate the restored slopes. Unfortunately, transition of ownership did not include a copy of the original notice of violation. On February 28, 2012, Jared Bond, a Senior Ecological Specialist with Riverside County’s Environmental Programs Division (EPD) inspected site to assess the success of the previous restoration efforts and concluded that the site had not revegetated to a level sufficient to stabilize erosion and sedimentation issues from the illegal grading. EPD required that a new hydro-seed mix be applied to the site and all re-contoured slopes to help prevent erosion and to promote revegetation. Speedway Development was also required to remove all failed BMP’s, including silt fencing, plastic tarps and stakes. A new restoration plan was prepared by K&A Engineering and submitted to the County on December 12, 2012 and approved by the County’s Department of Building and Safety on December 17, 2012. Although the new restoration plan has been fully implemented, the site has never been re-evaluated by the EPD. It should be noted that the onsite RSS habitat will be removed for site development. Compensatory mitigation for the loss of this habitat will be accomplished through participation in and compliance with the Western Riverside County MSHCP.

4.2.3 Riparian

There are three (3) riparian plant communities found on the project site: southern cottonwood willow riparian forest; coast live oak riparian forest; and mulefat scrub. These three riparian plant communities are described below.

Temescal Valley Toscana Village Habitat Assessment and MSHCP Consistency Analysis 15 Discussion

4.2.3.1 Southern Cottonwood Willow Riparian Forest

The southern cottonwood willow riparian forest is found in association with Drainage 4 traversing the project site from west to east in the northern portion of the project site. Also, a small stand is found on the eastern boundary of the project site at northern end of Drainage 1 adjacent to Temescal Canyon Road. This plant community is dominated by cottonwood (Populus fremontii), and willow (Salix ssp.), with little to no herbaceous understory. The understory was composed of leaf litter, common phacelia (Phacelia distans), and other small herbaceous plant species.

4.2.3.2 Coast Live Oak Riparian Forest

The northern boundary of the project site narrowly crosses a small north facing slope that is composed of a coast live oak riparian forest. Plant species found in this small area include coast live oak (Quercus agrifolia), sycamore (Plantanus racemosa), willow, and cottonwood. The proposed development will not impact this slope.

There are ten (10) large oak trees found on the southeast corner of the project site adjacent to Temescal Canyon Road. These trees have been tagged and numbered. Since these trees are spread out and do not for a uniform canopy, they are not considered an oak woodland plant community.

4.2.3.3 Mulefat Scrub

A fragmented mulefat scrub plant community, dominated by mulefat, is found in association with the ephemeral drainage (Drainage 1) found in the southern two thirds of the project site along the eastern boundary. This drainage feature runs south to north and parallels Temescal Canyon Road. Other plant species observed in this plant community included elderberry (Sambucus nigra), castor bean (Ricinus communis), salt cedar (Tamarix ramosissima) and tree tobacco (Nicotiana glauca).

4.2.4 Wetland

A small wetland occurs within the southern cottonwood willow riparian forest plant community. The wetland occurs at the mouth of a 36-inch culver that traverses under Interstate 15 and outlets on the project site. This culvert conveys the flows of the blue line stream. Plant species found within the wetland include cattails (Typha ssp.), cottonwood, willow, and mulefat.

4.2.5 Eucalyptus Woodland

A stand of Eucalyptus is present in the northern third of the project site on the eastern boundary adjacent to Temescal Canyon Road. This stand of eucalyptus is associated with Drainage 4 traversing the project site from west to east in the northern portion of the project site.

Temescal Valley Toscana Village Habitat Assessment and MSHCP Consistency Analysis 16 Discussion

4.2.6 Disturbed

Heavily disturbed areas on the project site no longer support vegetation. The majority of the disturbed areas are found on the northern third of the project site in association with existing land uses (i.e., storage yard, portions of Drainage 6 with loose rip rap). Disturbed areas are include dirt access roads that areas that continue to be used for off road vehicle activities, and areas that have been heavily compacted from use of the central portion of the project site for borrow

4.2.7 Developed

The project site includes developed areas primarily consisting of paved roads. The developed areas around found on the southern and eastern boundaries of the project site in association with Indian Truck Trail and Temescal Canyon Road, respectively.

4.3 WILDLIFE

Plant communities provide food sources, along with foraging, nesting and denning sites, cover, and protection from adverse weather or predation. This section provides a discussion of those wildlife species observed, expected or not expected to occur onsite. The discussion is to be used as a general reference and is limited by the season, time of day, and weather condition in which the survey was conducted. Wildlife observations were based on calls, songs, scat, tracks, burrows and actual sightings of animals. Focused surveys for listed species were not required by the MSHCP for this update. However, focused surveys for burrowing owl, and sensitive plant species (Hammitt’s clay- cress, many-stemmed dudleya, Munz’s onion, and round-leaved filaree) were previously conducted for the project site.

4.3.1 Amphibians

No amphibian species were observed during the habitat assessment and are not expected to occur on the project site or in the general vicinity due to the lack of ponding water and the disturbed nature of the project site. Sensitive amphibian species are not expected to occur onsite. No amphibian species were observed within the wetland. Amphibian species that could occur during heavy rainfall and subsequent ponding of water would include pacific chorus frogs (Pseudacris regilla) and western toad (Bufo bureas).

Despite the fact that water was observed within Drainage 4, likely a result of urban run-off, amphibian species were not observed during the habitat assessment. It should be noted that the majority of the drainages onsite only receive water following a storm events. The infrequency of occurrence of water within these features has precluded amphibian species from establishing population’s onsite. The Western Riverside County MSHCP does not identify any covered or sensitive amphibian species as potentially occurring on the project site.

Temescal Valley Toscana Village Habitat Assessment and MSHCP Consistency Analysis 17 Discussion

4.3.2 Reptiles

The project site is highly disturbed and is surrounded by existing development that has the potential to support a limited number of reptiles adapted to these habitat conditions. No reptiles were observed on the project site. Sensitive reptilian species are not expected to occur onsite. As noted, the project site is primarily composed of vacant, undeveloped lands that have been subjected to impacts over the years and continues to be subjected to a heavy degree of impacts that preclude a robust population of reptiles from becoming established onsite. Disturbed areas in the region, such as those present on the project site, have the potential to support a number of reptilian species including gopher snakes (Pituophis catenifer), pacific rattlesnake (Crotalus oreganus helleri) western fence lizard (Sceloporus occidentalis), alligator lizards (Elgaria multicarinata), and side-blotched lizards (Uta stansburiana). During the habitat assessment, only fence lizards were observed. The Western Riverside County MSHCP does not identify any covered or sensitive reptile species as potentially occurring on the project site.

4.3.3 Avian

The project site provides foraging and cover habitat for a wide variety of avian species. Species observed and heard during the survey included American crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos), Anna’s hummingbird (Calypte anna), house finch (Carpodacus mexicanus), mourning dove (Zenaida macroura), lesser goldfinch (Spinus psaltria), bushtit (Psaltriparus minimus), red-tailed hawk (Buteo jamaicensis), northern mockingbird (Mimus polyglottos), California towhee (Pipilo crissalis), Say’s phoebe (Sayornis saya), western meadowlark (Sturnella neglecta), Cassin’s kingbird (Tyrannus vociferans), turkey vulture (Cathartes aura), western scrub-jay (Aphelocoma californica), and American kestrel (Falco sparverius).

The Western Riverside County MSHCP lists Bell’s sage sparrow (Amphispiza belli), California gnatcatcher, Cooper’s hawk (Accipiter cooperii), least Bell’s vireo, loggerhead shrike (Lanius ludovicianus), mountain quail (Oreortyx pictus), southwestern willow flycatcher (Empidonax traillii extimus), white-tailed kite (Elanus leucurus), yellow breasted chat (Icteria virens), and yellow warbler (Setophaga petechia) as covered avian species that have a potential to occur within the Estelle Mountain/Indian Canyon Subunit of the Elsinore Area Plan.

4.3.4 Mammals

The project site provides suitable habitat for a limited number of mammalian species acclimated to human presence and disturbance. However, most mammal species are nocturnal and are difficult to observe during a diurnal field visit. Mammals and or sign detected during the field assessment included ground squirrel (Otospermophilus beecheyi), Botta’s pocket gopher (Thomomys bottae), and cottontail rabbits (Sylvilagus audubonii). In addition, evidence of small mammal burrows were noted, but limited.

Temescal Valley Toscana Village Habitat Assessment and MSHCP Consistency Analysis 18 Discussion

The Western Riverside County MSHCP lists the Stephen’ kangaroo rat, bobcat (Lynx rufus), and mountain lion (Puma concolor) as covered species that have the potential to occur within the the Estelle Mountain/Indian Canyon Subunit of the Elsinore Area Plan. No suitable habitat is present onsite for these species.

4.4 NESTING BIRDS

The plant communities within and adjacent to the project site, have the potential to provide suitable nesting opportunities for raptors and passerines. The habitat assessment was conducted at the end of the avian breeding season, and as a result no actively breeding bird species or birds displaying nesting behaviors were observed. However, a large nest, presumably a raptor nest, was observed in one of the large eucalyptus trees in the eucalypts woodland. No birds were observed in or around this nest and no recent sign (i.e., white wash, pellets, or feathers) were observed below the nest.

4.5 MIGRATORY CORRIDORS AND LINKAGES

The proposed project is primarily located in Criteria Cell 3448 with portions of the project site extending into Criteria Cells 3349 and 3350. These two cells contribute to the assembly of the Proposed Extension of Existing Core 2 which consists of habitat associated with Temescal Canyon Wash and adjacent upland areas. The primary goal of this Cell group will focus on riparian scrub, woodland, forest, and Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub habitat associated with Temescal Wash and provides habitat for species listed in Section 4.3.3 and 4.3.4 above, and also provides for movement of species.

This extension is contiguous with Existing Core C (Lake Mathews/Estelle Mountain) along the length of its eastern border and serves to extend the habitat in the Lake Mathews/Estelle Mountain area and smooth out edges along the border of this Core. Proposed Extension of Existing Core 2 is also connected to Proposed Constrained Linkage 4 (North Temescal Wash) in the north; and Proposed Linkage 1 and Proposed Constrained Linkages 3, 5 (Horsethief Canyon), and 6 (Temescal Wash south) in the south. The Lake Mathews/Estelle Mountain Extension supports populations of coastal California gnatcatcher; thus high quality, connected habitat must be maintained in this area which is surrounded by the City of Corona and community development planned land uses.

Immediately east of the project site and east of Temescal Canyon Road is a small mountain peak that separates the project site from the Temescal Canyon Wash. The wash flows around the eastern side of the mountain in a northerly direction and briefly crosses Temescal Canyon Road (north of the project site) as it maintains its northerly course. Additionally, the project site has been subject to various human disturbances and provides limited habitat for the species identified in the MSHCP as having the potential to occur within the Estelle Mountain/Indian Canyon Subunit of the Elsinore Area Plan. The proposed development will not impact Temescal Canyon Wash or habitat associated with the wash. No migratory corridors or linkages are located on the project site, and the proposed development will not affect any migratory corridors or linkages in the vicinity of the project site.

Temescal Valley Toscana Village Habitat Assessment and MSHCP Consistency Analysis 19 Discussion

4.6 JURISDICTIONAL AREAS

The USACE and the Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB) regulate discharge of fill into “waters of the Unites States” and “waters of the State” under Section 404 and 401 of the federal Clean Water (CWA), respectively. The CDFW regulates alterations to stream courses including adjacent riparian habitat areas under Section 1600 of the State Fish and Wildlife Code.

In total, the delineation identified 0.20-acre (2,157 linear feet) of “waters of the U.S.” and “waters of the State” subject to USACE and RWQCB jurisdiction. Of the 0.20-acre, 0.01-acre was determined to be a wetland. It was determined that 0.19-acre (2,157 linear feet) of potential “jurisdictional streambed” subject to CDFW jurisdiction, including 0.42-acre of riparian-vegetated (0.01-acre wetland) streambed within seven (7) jurisdictional features (Drainage 1 thru Drainage 6 and Wetland 1).

Based on the delineation findings and project impacts, the project applicant will be required to obtain the following regulatory approvals: USACE CWA Section 404 Nationwide Permit No. 39: Commercial and Institutional Developments; a RWQCB CWA Section 401 Water Quality Certification; and a CDFW Section 1602 Streambed Alteration Agreement. A summary of the state and federal jurisdictional areas is provided below:

Table 2: Jurisdictional Summary

USACE RWQCB CDFW Jurisdictional On-Site Impact On-Site Impact On-Site Acreage Impact Area Feature Acreage Acreage Acreage Acreage (Linear Feet) (Linear Feet) (Linear Feet) (Linear Feet) Unvegetated Associated Unvegetated Associated (Linear Feet) Riparian (Linear Feet) Riparian

Drainage 1 0.04 (947) 0.04 (947) 0.04 (947) 0.04 (947) 0.04 (947) 0.23 0.04 (947) 0.23 Drainage 2 0.01 (351) 0.01 (351) 0.01 (351) 0.01 (351) 0.01 (351) 0.00 0.01 (351) 0.00 Drainage 3 0.01 (107) 0.01 (107) 0.01 (107) 0.01 (107) 0.01 (107) 0.00 0.01 (107) 0.00 Drainage 4 0.04 (236) 0.04 (236) 0.04 (236) 0.04 (236) 0.04 (236) 0.13 0.04 (236) 0.13 Drainage 5 0.01 (127) 0.01 (127) 0.01 (127) 0.01 (127) 0.01 (127) 0.02 0.01 (127) 0.02 Drainage 6 0.08 (389) 0.01 (121) 0.08 (389) 0.01 (121) 0.08 (389) 0.03 0.01 (121) 0.00 Wetland 1 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.01 - 0.01 - 0.01 Total 0.20 (2,157) 0.13 (1,889) 0.20 (2,157) 0.13 (1,889) 0.19 (2,157) 0.42 0.12 (1,889) 0.39

4.6.1 Critical Habitat

Critical habitat refers to the specific areas within the geographical area occupied by a species, which supports those physical or biological features that are essential to the conservation and recovery of the species and which may require special management considerations for protection. Critical Habitat normally supports Primary Constituent Elements (PCEs) needed by a species to provide:

Temescal Valley Toscana Village Habitat Assessment and MSHCP Consistency Analysis 20 Discussion

 Space for individual and population growth, and for normal behavior;  Food, water, light, air, minerals or other nutritional or physiological needs;  Cover or shelter;  Sites for breeding, reproduction, and rearing of offspring; and  Habitat that is protected from disturbance or is representative of the historical geographic and ecological distribution of a species.

All Federal agencies are required to consult with the USFWS regarding activities they authorize, fund, or permit which may affect a federally listed species or its designated Critical Habitat. The purpose of the consultation is to ensure that projects will not jeopardize the continued existence of the listed species or adversely modify or destroy its designated Critical Habitat.

The project site located is not located within federally designated Critical Habitat (Exhibit 7, Critical Habitat). The closest designated Critical Habitat is located approximately 0.6 mile east of the project site for California gnatcatcher.

4.7 SENSITIVE BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES

The CNDDB was queried for reported locations of listed and sensitive plant and wildlife species as well as sensitive natural plant communities on the Lake Mathews and Alberhill USGS 7.5-minute quadrangles. A search of published records of these species was conducted within these quadrangles using the CNDDB Rarefind4 online software. The CNPS Inventory of Rare and Endangered Vascular Plants of California and MSHCP supplied information regarding the distribution and habitats of vascular plants in the vicinity of the project site. The habitat assessment was used to assess the ability of the plant communities found onsite to provide suitable habitat for relevant special-status plant and wildlife species.

The literature search identified 23 sensitive wildlife species, 20 sensitive plant species, and 6 sensitive habitats as having the potential to occur within the Lake Mathews and Alberhill quadrangles. Sensitive plant and wildlife species were evaluated for their potential to occur within the project boundaries based on habitat requirements, availability and quality of suitable habitat, and known distributions. Species determined to have the potential to occur within the general vicinity are presented in Appendix C, Sensitive Habitats and Potentially Occurring Sensitive Plant and Wildlife Species. Appendix C summarizes conclusions from analysis and field surveys regarding the potential occurrence of listed and sensitive plant and wildlife species within the project site.

Temescal Valley Toscana Village Habitat Assessment and MSHCP Consistency Analysis 21 Legend Project Boundary Critical Habitat Coastal California gnatcatcher

!"a$

!"a$ 4/13/2017 JNM:\Mdata\136162\MXD\Temescal\07 CriticalHabitat.mxd AP HABITAT ASSESSMENT AND MSHCP CONSISTENCY ANALYSIS 0 500 1,000 2,000 ! Feet Critical Habitat Source: US FWS Critical Habitat Portal, Eagle Aerial 2012, ESRI Transportation Basemap Exhibit 7 Discussion

4.7.1 Sensitive Plants

Twenty (20) special status plant species are known to occur in Lake Mathews and Alberhill quadrangles. Based on habitat requirements for specific species, availability and quality of habitats needed by each sensitive plant species, it was determined that the project site has a moderate potential to provide suitable habitat for four sensitive plant species: Munz’s onion, a federally endangered and state threatened species (CNPS 1B.1), round-leaved filaree (CNPS 1B.1), many-stemmed dudleya (CNPS 1B.2), and Hammitt’s clay-cress (CNPS 1B.2).

A focused survey was conducted in 2012 for Munz’s onion, round-leaved filaree, many-stemmed dudleya, and Hammitt’s clay-cress. None of these species were observed during the 2012 focused survey and were presumed absent from the project site. The conditions of the project site have not changed since the 2012 focused sensitive plant survey and based on the 2013 habitat assessment, these plant species are presumed absent.

4.7.2 Sensitive Wildlife

Twenty-three (23) special status wildlife species are known to occur in Lake Mathews and Alberhill quadrangles. Based on habitat requirements for specific species, availability and quality of habitats needed by sensitive wildlife species, it was determined that the project site has a moderate potential to provide suitable habitat for the three (3) following species:

4.7.2.1 Burrowing Owl

The burrowing owl is currently listed as a California Species of Special Concern. It is a grassland specialist distributed throughout western North America where it occupies open areas with short vegetation and bare ground within shrub, desert, and grassland environments. Burrowing owls use a wide variety of arid and semi-arid environments with well-drained, level to gently-sloping areas characterized by sparse vegetation and bare ground (Haug and Didiuk 1993; Dechant et al. 1999). Burrowing owls are dependent upon the presence of burrowing mammals (such as ground squirrels) whose burrows are used for roosting and nesting (Haug and Didiuk 1993). The presence or absence of colonial mammal burrows is often a major factor that limits the presence or absence of burrowing owls. Where mammal burrows are scarce, burrowing owls have been found occupying man-made cavities, such as buried and non-functioning drain pipes, stand-pipes, and dry culverts. Burrowing mammals may burrow beneath rocks and debris or large, heavy objects such as abandoned cars, concrete blocks, or concrete pads. They also require open vegetation allowing line-of-sight observation of the surrounding habitat to forage as well as watch for predators.

Temescal Valley Toscana Village Habitat Assessment and MSHCP Consistency Analysis 23 Discussion

owl. However, a focused survey, conducted in 2012, was negative for burrowing owl. Current site conditions have not changed since the 2012 focused survey and based on the lack of sign or observation of burrowing owl on the project site during the 2013 habitat assessment, it can be presumed that burrowing owl do not occur onsite. It is recommended that a pre-construction burrowing owl clearance survey be 30 days prior to ground disturbing activities in accordance with the Western Riverside County MSHCP to ensure burrowing owl remain absent from the project site.

4.7.2.2 California Gnatcatcher

California gnatcatcher, federally listed as threatened, is a species with restricted habitat requirements, being an obligate resident of sage scrub habitats that are dominated by California sagebrush (Artemisia californica). This species generally occurs below 750 feet elevation in coastal regions and below 1,500 feet inland. It ranges from the Ventura County south to San Diego County and northern Baja California and it is less common in sage scrub with a high percentage of tall shrubs. It prefers habitat with more low-growing vegetation. CAGN breed between mid-February and the end of August, with the peak of activity from mid-March to mid-May. Population estimates indicate that there are approximately 1,600 to 2,290 pairs of CAGN remaining.

The RSS plant community found on the project site is disturbed and only provides marginally suitable habitat for CAGN. However, CAGN is a fully covered species under the MSHCP and compliance with the MSHCP provides take authority for loss of CAGN habitat.

4.7.2.3 Least Bell’s Vireo

LBVI is a federally and state listed as endangered species. This bird is a small, olive-gray migratory songbird that nests and forages almost exclusively in riparian woodland habitats. Bell’s vireos as a group are highly territorial and are almost exclusively insectivorous. LBVI nesting habitat typically consists of well-developed overstory, understory, and low densities of aquatic and herbaceous cover. The understory frequently contains dense sub-shrub or shrub thickets. These thickets are often dominated by plants such as narrow-leaf willow, mulefat, young individuals of other willow species such as arroyo willow or black willow, and one or more herbaceous species. LBVI generally begin to arrive from their wintering range in southern Baja California and establish breeding territories by mid-March to late-March. A large majority of breeding vireos apparently depart their breeding grounds by the third week of September and only a very few have been found wintering in the United States.

Temescal Valley Toscana Village Habitat Assessment and MSHCP Consistency Analysis 24 Discussion

accordance with accepted protocol. A focused survey for LBVI was conducted to comply with the conservation goals of the MSHCP.

LBVI is known to nest within Temescal Creek, which is located approximately 800-feet from the riparian habitat on the project site. LBVI is an edge species and could migrate onto the project site. In accordance with the USFWS least Bell’s vireo survey guidelines, all riparian areas and any other potential vireo habitats within the project boundaries were surveyed at eight (8) times between April 10 and July 31, at least ten (10) days apart. Biologist Travis J. McGill conducted eight focused LBVI surveys on May 9, May 19, May, 29, June 8, June 19, June 29, July 12, and July 26, 2014. All surveys were conducted between the hours of 0600 and 1000. No LBVI were observed during these surveys and LBVI can be presumed to be absent from the project site.

4.7.3 Sensitive Habitats

Two riparian areas, listed as CDFW Sensitive Habitats, occur on the project site: southern coast live oak riparian forest; and southern cottonwood willow riparian forest. The southern coast live oak riparian forest found on the northern boundary of the project site will be avoided (approximately 0.03-acre). The southern cottonwood willow riparian found in association with Drainage 1 and Drainage 4 will be impacted from the proposed development resulting in the loss of approximately 0.28-acre. Additionally, a small wetland feature occurs within Drainage 4 (approximately 0.01-acre) that will be impacted from the proposed development.

4.8 STEPHEN’S KANGAROO RAT

Mitigation of impacts to the Stephens' Kangaroo Rat will be accomplished through the review of each proposed development project within the Fee Assessment Area to determine whether on-site mitigation through the reservation or addition of lands included within or immediately adjacent to a potential habitat reserve site or payment of the Mitigation Fee or a combination of both is appropriate and furthers the ultimate Habitat Conservation Plan objectives. A proposed development project may be referred, for review, to Federal and State resource agencies based upon criteria which may be established and agreed upon by the County and said agencies.

This ordinance provides for the establishment of this review process and satisfaction of on-site mitigation to protect potential habitat reserve sites or payment of the Mitigation Fee or a combination of both, which upon implementation will satisfy USFWS, CDFW, as well as County mitigation requirements for the SKR and its habitat which may occur within the unincorporated areas of the County designated herein.

Temescal Valley Toscana Village Habitat Assessment and MSHCP Consistency Analysis 25

Section 5 Western Riverside County MSHCP Consistnecy Analysis

5.1 MSHCP REQUIREMENTS

5.1.1 MSHCP Areas

The approximate 27.11-Acre Temescal Valley Toscana Village project is located in the Subunit 1: Estelle Mountain/Indian Canyon of the Elsinore Area Plan (Exhibit 8, MSHCP Area Map). The proposed project is primarily located in Criteria Cell 3448 with portions of the project site extending into Criteria Cells 3349 and 3350. These cells contribute to the assembly of the Proposed Extension of Existing Core 2 which consists of habitat associated with Temescal Canyon Wash and adjacent upland areas. The primary goal of this Cell group will focus on riparian scrub, woodland, forest, and Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub habitat associated with Temescal Wash and provides habitat for species listed in Section 4.3.3 and 4.3.4 above, and also provides for movement of species.

5.1.2 MSHCP Survey Requirements

The RCIP Conservation Summary Report Generator was queried to determine if the MSHCP lists any survey requirements of the project site. The summary report identified the project site as having the potential to provide suitable habitat for burrowing owl, and MSHCP Narrow Endemic and Criteria Area plant species. Narrow Endemic plant species having the potential to occur onsite are Munz’s onion, San Diego ambrosia (Ambrosia pumila), slender-horned spineflower (Dodecahema leptoceras), many-stemmed dudleya, spreading navarretia (Navarretia fossalis), California orcutt grass (Orcuttia californica), San Miguel savory (Clinopodium chandleri), Hammitt’s clay-cress, and Wright’s trichocornonis (Trichocoronis wrightii var. wrightii). Criteria Area plant species identified as having the potential to occur on the project site are thread-leaved brodiaea (Brodiaea filifolia), Davidson’s saltscale (Atriplex serenana var. davidsonii), Parish’ brittlescale (Atriplex parishii), smooth tarplant (Centromadia pungens ssp. laevis), round-leaved filaree, Coulter’s goldfields (Lasthenia glabrata ssp. coulteri), and little mousetail (Myosurus minimus ssp. apus).

Temescal Valley Toscana Village Habitat Assessment and MSHCP Consistency Analysis 26 3036 3039 3041 3037 3040

3142 3143 3144 3145 3146

3245 3246 3248 3249

3348 3349 3350 3351

3448 3449 3450

3545 3546 3547 3548 3549 3550

3645 3646 3647 3648

3744 3745 Legend3746 3748 Project Boundary

MSHCP Criteria Cell and ID Riverside County Area Plans 3844 3846 Elsinore

Lake Mathews / Woodcrest

3946 3948Te m escal Canyon3949 3950 2/2014 JN M:\Mdata\136162\MXD\Temescal\08 MSHCPAreas Map.mxdAP 1/2 HABITAT ASSESSMENT AND MSHCP CONSISTENCY ANALYSIS 0 0.25 0.5 1 ! Miles MSHCP Areas Map Source: Riverside County GIS, ESRI World Imagery Basemap Exhibit 8 Western Riverside County MSHCP Consistency Analysis

In accordance with Section 6.1.2 of the MSHCP, if a project site supports riparian scrub and/or woodland habitats, and the proposed project will not avoid these areas, a focused survey for LBVI shall be conducted by a qualified biologist in accordance with accepted protocol. The project site supports riparian habitats; therefore, a focused survey will be required to comply with the conservation goals of the MSHCP.

5.2 HABITAT ASSESSMENT RESULTS

5.2.1 Burrowing Owl

Some of the plant communities on the project site provide the open vegetation needed by burrowing owl to allow for line-of-sight observation, however no burrowing owls or burrowing owl sign was observed during the habitat assessment. Additionally, suitable burrows were observed onsite during the habitat assessment that have the potential to provide suitable nesting opportunities for burrowing owl. However, a focused survey, conducted in 2012, was negative for burrowing owl. Current site conditions have not changed since the 2012 focused survey and based on the lack of sign or observation of burrowing owl on the project site during the 2013 habitat assessment, it can be presumed that burrowing owl do not occur onsite.

It is recommended that a pre-construction burrowing owl clearance survey be conducted 30 days prior to ground disturbing activities in accordance with the Western Riverside County MSHCP prior to ground disturbing activities to ensure burrowing owl remain absent from the project site.

5.2.2 Least Bell’s Vireo

The riparian vegetation (southern cottonwood willow riparian forest associated with Drainage 4 and the coast live oak riparian forest plant communities found on the northern boundary of the project site) has the potential to provide suitable habitat for LBVI. In accordance with Section 6.1.2 of the MSHCP, if a project site supports riparian scrub and/or woodland habitats, and the proposed project will not avoid these areas, a focused survey for LBVI shall be conducted by a qualified biologist in accordance with accepted protocol. A focused survey for LBVI was required to comply with the conservation goals of the MSHCP

Temescal Valley Toscana Village Habitat Assessment and MSHCP Consistency Analysis 28 Western Riverside County MSHCP Consistency Analysis

5.2.3 Narrow Endemic Plant Species

Based on habitat requirements for specific species, availability and quality of habitats needed by sensitive plant species, it was determined that the project site does not provide suitable habitat for Narrow Endemic Plant species San Diego ambrosia, slender-horned spineflower, spreading navarretia, California orcutt grass, San Miguel savory and Wright’s trichocornonis.

San Diego Ambrosia San Diego ambrosia, a federally endangered species, occurs in open habitats in coarse substrates near drainages, and in upland areas on clay slopes or on the dry margins of vernal pools. This species occurs in a variety of associations that are dominated by sparse grasslands or marginal wetland habitats such as river terraces, pools, and alkali playas. In Riverside County, San Diego ambrosia is associated with open, gently-sloped grasslands and is generally associated with alkaline soils. Three populations of San Diego ambrosia have been mapped in Riverside County.

The project site primarily consists of sandy loam soils supporting annual grasslands and RSS. Additionally, no flood plain occurs onsite and no vernal pool conditions are present onsite. As a result, the project site does not contain suitable habitat for San Diego ambrosia and is not in an area of known occurrences. San Diego ambrosia is not expected to occur within the project site.

Slender-horned Spineflower Slender-horned spineflower, federally and State listed as endangered, is a small annual in the buckwheat family. This species is generally dependent on mature alluvial scrub that is maintained by periodic flooding and sediment transport. It is important for the survival of this species that adequate alluvial scrub habitat and active fluvial processes be maintained. This species is only readily detectable in the spring between April and June when in bloom. Cryptogamic crusts are frequently present in areas occupied by slender-horned spineflower (Boyd and Banks 1995; U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1986).

The project site primarily consists of sandy loam soils supporting annual grasslands and RSS. Undisturbed, sandy, alluvial benches do not occur onsite and therefore this plant is not expected to occur.

Spreading Navarretia Spreading navarretia is a federally threatened species that is associated with vernal pools and depressions and basins in areas that once supported vernal pools. In western Riverside County, spreading navarretia has been found within vernal floodplains dominated by annual alkali grassland or alkali playa. The vernal pool habitat found in the Hemet area is based primarily on silty clay soils

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in the Willows and Travers series. Spreading navarretia is an annual herb that blooms from April to June.

The project site does not support vernal pools or alkaline soils that provide the requisite habitat requirements for this species. As a result, spreading navarretia is no expected to occur onsite.

California Orcutt Grass California orcutt grass is a federally and State endangered species that is associated with vernal pools. In Riverside County, this species is found in southern basaltic claypan vernal pools and alkaline vernal pools. It is an annual herb that blooms from April to August. In Riverside County it is known to occur in Upper Salt Creek, Skunk Hollow, and the Santa Rosa Plateau.

The project site does not support vernal pools or suitable habitat for California orcutt grass and the project site in not in an area of known occurrences. This species is not expected to occur within the project site.

San Miguel Savory San Miguel savory, a CNPS 1B.2 species, is primarily restricted to rocky, gabbroic and metavolcanic substrates in sage scrub, chaparral, cismontane woodland, riparian woodland, and valley and foothill grassland between 400 and 3,300 feet. This species is primarily found in association with the Santa Rosa Plateau and Santa Ana Mountains.

The project site primarily consists of sandy loam soils supporting annual grasslands and RSS. Rocky, gabbroic and metavolcanic substrates do not occur onsite and the project site is not located near areas where the species is known to occur. This species is not expected to occur on the project site.

Wright’s Trichocoronis Wright’s trichocoronis is a CNPS 2.1 species. It is an annual herb that blooms from May to September and occurs in marshes, riparian forest, meadows, seeps, and vernal pools. In western Riverside County, Wright’s trichocoronis is found in the alkali vernal plains and associated with alkali playa, alkali annual grassland, and alkali vernal pool habitats. This species occupies the more mesic portions of these habitats. Wright’s trichocoronis is known from four locations along the San Jacinto River in the vicinity of the Ramona Expressway and San Jacinto Wildlife Area.

The project site does not support vernal pools or alkaline soils that provide the requisite habitat requirements for this species. Wright’s trichocoronis is not expected to occur within the project site.

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5.2.3.1 2012 Focused Survey Results

Based on the type and condition of the soils and plant communities found on the project site, it was determined that the project site does has a low to moderate potential to provide suitable habitat for Munz’s onion, many-stemmed dudleya, and Hammitt’s clay-cress. A focused survey was conducted in 2012 for these plant species and was negative. These plant species are presumed absent from the project site.

Munz’s Onion Munz’s onion is a State threatened and federally endangered plant that grows in grassy openings in coastal sage scrub, chaparral, juniper woodland, and valley and foothill grasslands. It is found on mesic exposures or seasonally moist microsites in southwestern Riverside County and is associated with a special “clay soil flora” found in southwestern Riverside County. Munz’s onion blooms from March to May.

The project site primarily consists of sandy loam soils supporting annual grasslands and RSS, however, the presence clay soils, though supporting predominantly dense exotic annual vegetation and some RSS, presents a remote possibility of this species. A focused survey conducted in 2012 was negative for this species and is presumed absent from the project site.

Many-stemmed Dudleya Many-stemmed dudleya is a CNPS 1B.2 species that is associated with clay soils in barrens, rocky places, or thinly vegetated openings in chaparral, coastal sage scrub, and southern needlegrass grasslands. The species is primarily associated with sage scrub or open sage scrub. It is a perennial herb that blooms from April to July. It is known from less than 15 occurrences in Riverside County.

Conditions with predominantly clay soils in barrens, rocky places, and ridgelines do not occur onsite. However, the thinly vegetated openings in sage scrub on clay soils presented a remote possibility of occurrence onsite. A focused survey conducted in 2012 was negative for this species and is presumed absent from the project site.

Hammitt’s Clay-cress Hammitt’s clay-cress is a CNPS 1B.2 species. This species is known from the Elsinore Peak area of the Santa Ana Mountains in grasslands, but is associated with sage scrub, chaparral, and peninsular juniper woodland on clay soils between 980 feet and 3,200 feet in the Santa Ana Mountains and Riverside lowlands. This plant typically occurs in clay lens soils within openings in chaparral and valley and foothill grasslands.

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The project site primarily consists of sandy loam soils supporting annual grasslands and RSS, however, the thinly vegetated openings in sage scrub on clay soils presented a remote possibility of occurrence onsite. A focused survey conducted in 2012 was negative for this species and is presumed absent from the project site.

5.2.4 Criteria Area Plant Species

Based on habitat requirements for specific species, availability and quality of habitats needed by sensitive plant species, it was determined that the project site does not provide suitable habitat for Criteria Area Plant species thread-leaved brodiaea, Davidson’s saltscale, Parish’ brittlescale, smooth tarplant, Coulter’s goldfields, and little mousetail.

Thread-leaved Brodiaea Thread-leaved brodiaea is federally threatened and State endangered. It is a perennial bulbiferous herb that blooms from March to June and it typically occurs on gentle hillsides, valleys, and floodplains in semi-alkaline mudflats, vernal pools, mesic southern needlegrass grassland, mixed native-nonnative grassland and alkali grassland plant communities in association with clay, loamy sand, or alkaline silty-clay soils. Localities occupied by this species are frequently intermixed with, or near, vernal pool complexes, such as at the Santa Rosa Plateau and in the Upper Salt Creek drainage southwest of Hemet in Riverside County.

The project site does not support semi-alkaline mudflats, vernal pools, mesic southern needlegrass grassland, mixed native-nonnative grassland or alkali grasslands. This species is not expected to occur on the project site.

Davidson’s Saltscale Davidson’s saltscale is designated as a CNPS 1B.2 species. It is an annual herb that blooms from April to October and occurs in coastal bluff scrub and coastal scrub in alkaline soils. In Riverside County, Davidson’s saltscale is found in the Domino-Willows-Traver Soils series in association with the alkali vernal pools, alkali annual grassland, alkali playa, and alkali scrub components of alkali vernal plains. Currently known key populations of Davidson’s saltscale include Salt Creek west of Hemet, the middle segment of San Jacinto River, and the San Jacinto Wildlife Area.

The project site does not support vernal pools or alkaline soils; therefore, Davidson’s saltscale is not expected to occur on the project site.

Parish’s Brittlescale Parish’s brittlescale is designated as a CNPS 1B.1 species. It is an annual herb that blooms from June to October and is found in alkaline habitats. In western Riverside County it is found primarily along the San Jacinto River and at Salt Creek within the Domino-Willows-Traver Soils series in association

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with the alkali vernal pools, alkali annual grassland, alkali playa, and alkali scrub components of alkali vernal plains. Salt Creek west of Hemet and the Winchester Valley support the only known populations of this plant.

The project site does not support vernal pools or alkaline soils; therefore, Parish’s brittlescale is not expected to occur on the project site.

Smooth Tarplant Smooth tarplant is designated as a CNPS 1B.1 species. It is an annual herb that blooms from April to September and occurs in a variety of habitats including alkali scrub, alkali playas, riparian woodland, watercourses, and grasslands with alkaline affinities. The majority of the populations in western Riverside County are associated with alkali vernal plains. Smooth tarplant is found at scattered low elevation locations throughout much of western Riverside County.

The project site does not support alkaline soils needed by this plant species; therefore, it is not expected to occur.

Coulter’s Goldfields Coulter’s goldfields are designated as a CNPS 1B.1 species. It is an annual herb that blooms from February to June and has been found to occur in marshes and swamps, playas, and vernal pools. In Riverside County, Coulter’s goldfields occur primarily in highly alkaline, silty-clay soils in association with the Traver-Domino-Willows soil association. Coulter’s goldfields occur primarily in the alkali vernal plains community. These are floodplains dominated by alkali scrub, alkali playas, vernal pools, and, alkali grasslands.

The project site does not support vernal pools, alkali scrub, alkali playas, or alkali grasslands; therefore, Coulter’s goldfields are not expected to occur within the project site.

Little Mousetail Little mousetail is a CNPS 3.1. This plant species is an annual herb that blooms from March to June and occurs in association with vernal pools and within the alkali vernal pools and alkali annual grassland components of alkali vernal plains. Little mousetail is found in areas that have semi-regular inundation. Little mousetail is known from at least nine locations in western Riverside County. The largest population complex of this plant known is found within an alkali vernal pool complex at Salt Creek west of Hemet. Two populations are on the Santa Rosa Plateau within the Santa Rosa Plateau Preserve.

The project site does not support vernal pools, alkali scrub, alkali playas, or alkali grasslands; therefore, little mousetail is not expected to occur within the project site.

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5.2.4.1 2012 Focused Survey Results

Based on the type and condition of the soils and plant communities found on the project site, it was determined that the project site does has a low to moderate potential to provide suitable habitat for round-leaved filaree. The project site primarily consists of sandy loam soils supporting annual grasslands and RSS, however, the thinly vegetated openings in sage scrub on clay soils presented a remote possibility of occurrence onsite.

Round-leaved filaree typically occurs in cismontane woodland, valley grassland, and chaparral within the Riverside lowlands and Santa Ana Mountains bioregions. It is thought to prefer clay soils. Round- leaved filaree is an annual herb with a blooming period from March to May and is designated as a CNPS 1B.1 species.

A focused survey was conducted in 2012 for round-leaved filaree and was negative. This plant species is presumed absent from the project site.

5.3 JURISDICTIONAL DRAINAGES, RIPARIAN / RIVERINE AREAS AND VERNAL POOLS

Jurisdictional Drainages, Riparian/Riverine Areas Section 6.1.2 of the Western Riverside County MSHCP requires an assessment of the potentially significant effects of a project on Covered Species, and riparian/riverine areas and vernal pools. This assessment is independent from considerations given to waters of the U.S. and waters of the State under the Clean Water Act and the California Fish and Wildlife Code. The MSHCP requires all riparian/riverine habitats be avoided. If these habitats cannot be avoided, a Determination of Biologically Equivalent or Superior Preservation (DBESP) analysis must be prepared.

As documented in the jurisdictional delineation report, seven (7) jurisdictional features (Drainage 1 thru Drainage 6 and Wetland 1) occur on the project site. In total, the delineation identified 0.20-acre (2,157 linear feet) of “waters of the U.S.” and “waters of the State” subject to USACE and RWQCB jurisdiction. Of the 0.20-acre, 0.01-acre was determined to be a wetland. It was determined that 0.19- acre (2,157 linear feet) of potential “jurisdictional streambed” subject to CDFW jurisdiction, including 0.42-acre of riparian-vegetated (0.01-acre wetland) streambed within seven (7) jurisdictional features (Drainage 1 thru Drainage 6 and Wetland 1). As a result of the proposed project, approximately 0.12-acre of riverine (unvegetated streambed), 0.39-acre of riparian habitat (associated riparian vegetation), and 0.01-acre of wetland will be impacted from the proposed project. These impacts will require the preparation of a DBESP analysis under the MSHCP separate from the regulatory permits.

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Table 3: Riparian/Riverine/Wetland Habitat and Impact Summary

Riverine Habitat Riparian Habitat Wetland Habitat Jurisdictional On-Site Impact On-Site Impact On-Site Impact Feature Acreage Acreage Acreage Acreage Acreage Acreage

Drainage 1 0.045 0.045 0.23 0.23 0.00 0.00 Drainage 2 0.01 0.01 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Drainage 3 0.005 0.005 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Drainage 4 0.04 0.04 0.13 0.13 0.00 0.00 Drainage 5 0.01 0.01 0.02 0.02 0.00 0.00 Drainage 6 0.08 0.01 0.03 0.00 0.00 0.00 Wetland 1 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.01 0.01 Total 0.19 0.12 0.41 0.38 0.01 0.01

Vernal Pools Vernal pools are seasonally inundated, ponded areas that only form in regions where specialized soil and climatic conditions exist. During fall and winter rains typical of Mediterranean climates, water collects in shallow depressions where downward percolation of water is prevented by the presence of a hard pan or clay pan layer (duripan) below the soil surface. Later in the spring when rains decrease and the weather warms, the water evaporates and the pools generally disappear by May. The shallow depressions remain relatively dry until late fall and early winter with the advent of greater precipitation and cooler temperatures. Vernal pools provide unusual "flood and drought" habitat conditions to which certain plant and wildlife species have specifically adapted as well as invertebrate species such as fairy shrimp.

The MSHCP lists two general classes of soils known to be associated with listed and sensitive plant species; clay soils and Traver-Domino Willow association soils. The specific clay soils known to be associated with listed and sensitive species within the MSHCP plan area include Bosanko, Auld, Altamont, and Porterville series soils, whereas, Traver-Domino Willows association includes saline-alkali soils largely located along floodplain areas of the San Jacinto River and Salt Creek. There are 9 acres of Altamont Clay in the center of the project site. However, no vernal pools or sensitive plant and wildlife species associated with vernal pools, including fairy shrimp, have been identified on the project site.

5.4 URBAN / WILDLANDS INTERFACE GUIDELINES

According to the MSHCP, the Urban/Wildlands Interface Guidelines are intended to address indirect effects associated with locating development in proximity to the MSHCP Conservation Area (MSHCP, p 6-42). The proposed project is primarily located in Criteria Cell 3448 with portions of the

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project site extending into Criteria Cells 3349 and 3350. These cells contribute to the assembly of the Proposed Extension of Existing Core 2 which consists of habitat associated with Temescal Canyon Wash and adjacent upland areas. The primary goal of this Cell group will focus on riparian scrub, woodland, forest, and Riversidean alluvial fan sage scrub habitat associated with Temescal Wash and provides habitat for species listed in Section 4.3.3 and 4.3.4 above, and also provides for movement of species. The Urban/Wildlife Interface Guidelines, as discussed below, will be incorporated into the project to ensure that indirect project-related impacts, including drainage, toxics, lighting, noise, invasive plant species, barriers, and grading/land development, are avoided or minimized.

5.4.1 Drainage

All stormwater runoff from the road should be directed to a stormwater basin on the Temecula Creek Inn Specific Plan area and avoid Temecula Creek. The basin will be designed in accordance with all federal, state, regional, and local standards and regulations concerning water quality. These measures will assure that the project stormwater discharges are no greater in volume and velocity than current undeveloped conditions and that the water leaving the site complies with all applicable water quality standards.

The project’s stormwater should be directed to a stormwater basin on the project site. The basin will be designed in accordance with all federal, state, regional, and local standards and regulations concerning water quality. These measures will assure that the project stormwater discharges are no greater in volume and velocity than current undeveloped conditions and that the water leaving the site complies with all applicable water quality standards.

5.4.2 Toxics

During the development of the proposed project site, construction activities that have the potential to release toxics that could impact the adjacent MSHCP Conservation Area associated with Temescal Canyon wash should be controlled. Best Management Practices (BMPs) will be put in place to avoid or minimize any such release. To address these potential short-term impacts, the project is required to stage construction operations as far away from the MSHCP Conservation Area to the maximum extent feasible. These mitigation measures will be imposed by the County.

5.4.3 Lighting

Light sources associated with the proposed development should be designed with internal baffles to direct the lighting towards the ground and the developed areas and have a zero side angle cut off to the horizon.

5.4.4 Noise

The majority of the project site has a natural barrier from Temescal Canyon Wash by the small mountain peak adjacent to Temescal Canyon Road. The natural barrier should provide a physical

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separation or barrier between the proposed development and the conservation area to buffer noise impacts on migrating wildlife. The northern boundary of the project site, adjacent to Temescal Canyon Wash might need a barrier to significantly lessen any noise exposure to MSHCP covered species.

The proposed project is outside of the targeted conservation areas associated with Temescal Canyon Wash and the Proposed Extension of Existing Core 2. Construction-related noise will be mitigated consistent with the County’s Noise Ordinances by limiting construction activities to daytime hours and requiring construction equipment to be tuned and equipped with mufflers.

5.4.5 Invasive Plant Species

Plant species acceptable for the project’s landscaping must not be considered an invasive species pursuant to Table 6.2 of the MSHCP. To ensure this, the final landscape plans must be reviewed and verified by the County for consistency with the plant species list in Table 6.2 of the MSHCP.

5.4.6 Barriers

As previously indicated, barriers may be needed to separate the project from Temescal Canyon Wash along the northern boundary of the project site. This barrier would restrict direct access to Temescal Canyon Wash and the MSHCP Conservation Area by domestic animals. The barrier would and should be placed within the boundaries of the development and will be outside of the confines of the MSHCP Conservation Area.

5.4.7 Grading/Land Development

The project has been designed to keep all manufactured slopes within the boundaries of the development footprint and not encroach into the open space/MSHCP Conservation Area.

5.4.8 Fuels Management

Fuels management focuses on hazard reduction for humans and their property (MSHCP, p. 6-72). According to the Fuels Management Guidelines, for new development that is planned adjacent to the MSHCP Conservation Area or other undeveloped areas, brush management shall be incorporated in the development boundaries and shall not encroach into the MSHCP Conservation Area (MSHCP, p. 6-72).

The proposed project would decrease the fuel load within the project boundary with the implementation of buildings, roads, and landscaping. Any areas planted with fire-resistant, non-invasive plants must not encroach into the Conservation Area. Accordingly, with these measures, the project is consistent with the MSHCP Fuels Management Guidelines.

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Section 6 Habitat Acquisition Nand Negotiation Strategy (HANS) Review

Proposed development within a Criteria Cell is subject to review under the HANS process. Project applicants whose site falls within Criteria Areas are required to file a habitat assessment of their project site to determine if all or part of the property is necessary for inclusion in any MSHCP Conservation Areas. A HANS application was submitted to the Riverside County Planning Department for the proposed project in February 2012 (see Appendix F).

It was determined by the Riverside County Planning Department (February 16, 2012), that the proposed project site is not within proposed conservation for the MSHCP. The Riverside County Planning Department stated that they would be to proceeding with preparation of a file for Joint Project Review (JPR) meeting at the Regional Conservation Authority (RCA).

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Section 7 Recommendations

7.1 MSHCP CRITERIA CELL The project site is located in the Estelle Mountain/Indian Canyon Subunit of the Elsinore Area Plan. Additionally, the project site is primarily located in Criteria Cell 3448 with portions of the project site extending into Criteria Cells 3349 and 3350. These cells contribute to the assembly of the Proposed Extension of Existing Core 2 which consists of habitat associated with Temescal Canyon Wash and adjacent upland areas.

As determined by the Riverside County Planning Department (February 16, 2012), the submittal notification of the HANS application stated that the proposed project site is not within a proposed conservation of the MSHCP.

7.2 HABITAT ASSESSMENT Based on the type and condition of the soils and plant communities found on the project site, it was determined that the project site does has a low to moderate potential to provide suitable habitat for Munz’s onion, many-stemmed dudleya, Hammitt’s clay-cress, and round-leaved filaree. A focused survey was conducted in 2012 for these species and was negative. The 2013 habitat assessment verified the conditions of the habitat found and the project site and determined that these plant species are presumed absent from the project site.

Based on habitat requirements for specific species, availability and quality of habitats needed by sensitive plant species, it was determined that the project site does not provide suitable habitat for Narrow Endemic Plant species (San Diego ambrosia, slender-horned spineflower, spreading navarretia, California orcutt grass, San Miguel savory and Wright’s trichocornonis) or Criteria Area Plant species (thread-leaved brodiaea, Davidson’s saltscale, Parish’ brittlescale, smooth tarplant, Coulter’s goldfields, and little mousetail).

No further actions are recommended for Narrow Endemic or Criteria Area plant species.

A focused survey conducted in 2012 for burrowing owl was negative. Current site conditions have not changed since the 2012 focused survey and based on the lack of sign or observation of burrowing owl on the project site during the 2013 habitat assessment, it can be presumed that burrowing owl do not occur onsite. It is recommended that a pre-construction burrowing owl clearance survey be conducted 30 days prior to ground disturbing activities in accordance with the Western Riverside County MSHCP prior to ground disturbing activities to ensure burrowing owl remain absent from the project site.

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7.3 URBAN WILDLANDS INTERFACE GUIDELINES The project site is not located within a MSHCP conservation area; therefore, no mitigation measures are recommended to address the Urban Wildlands Interface Guidelines. As a result, the project will implement the Urban Wildlands Interface Guidelines as detailed in Section 6.5 of this document.

7.4 RIPARIAN / RIVERINE AREA In total, the delineation identified 0.20-acre (2,157 linear feet) of “waters of the U.S.” and “waters of the State” subject to USACE and RWQCB jurisdiction. Of the 0.20-acre, 0.01-acre was determined to be a wetland. It was determined that 0.19-acre (2,157 linear feet) of potential “jurisdictional streambed” subject to CDFW jurisdiction, including 0.42-acre of riparian-vegetated (0.01-acre wetland) streambed within seven (7) jurisdictional features (Drainage 1 thru Drainage 6 and Wetland 1).

As a result of the proposed project, approximately 0.12-acre of riverine (unvegetated streambed), 0.39-acre of riparian habitat (associated riparian vegetation), and 0.01-acre of wetland will be impacted from the proposed project. Separate from the regulatory permits, a DBESP analysis will need to be prepared to address the loss of the riparian/riverine habitat under the MSHCP.

The riparian vegetation (southern cottonwood willow riparian forest associated with Drainage 4 and the coast live oak riparian forest plant communities found on the northern boundary of the project site) has the potential to provide suitable habitat for LBVI. In accordance with Section 6.1.2 of the MSHCP, if a project site supports riparian scrub and/or woodland habitats, and the proposed project will not avoid these areas, a focused survey for LBVI shall be conducted by a qualified biologist in accordance with accepted protocol. Biologist Travis J. McGill conducted eight focused LBVI surveys on May 9, May 19, May, 29, June 8, June 19, June 29, July 12, and July 26, 2014. All surveys were conducted between the hours of 0600 and 1000. No LBVI were observed during these surveys and LBVI can be presumed to be absent from the project site.

7.5 MIGRATORY BIRD TREATY ACT / CDFW CODE Nesting birds are protected pursuant to the MBTA and CDFW Code. If ground-disturbing activities or removal of any trees, shrubs, or any other potential nesting habitat are scheduled within the avian nesting season (nesting season generally extend from February 1 - August 31, but can vary from year to year based upon seasonal weather conditions), a pre-construction clearance survey for nesting birds, should be conducted within 10 days prior to any ground disturbing activities to ensure that no nesting birds will be disturbed during construction. The biologist conducting the clearance survey

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should document a negative survey with a brief letter report indicating that no impacts to active bird nests will occur. If an active avian nest is discovered during the 10-day preconstruction clearance survey, construction activities should stay outside of a 300-foot buffer around the active nest. For raptor species, this buffer is expanded to 500-feet. It is recommended that a biological monitor be present to delineate the boundaries of the buffer area and to monitor the active nest to ensure that nesting behavior is not adversely affected by the construction activity. Once the young have fledged and left the nest, normal construction activities can occur.

Pursuant to CDFW Code 3503, it makes it unlawful to destroy any birds’ nest or any birds’ eggs that are protected under the MBTA. Further, any birds in the orders Falconiformes or Strigiformes (Birds of Prey, such as hawks and owls) are protected under CDFW Code 3503.5 which makes it unlawful to take, posses, or destroy their nest or eggs. Consultation with CDFW will be required prior to the removal of any raptor nest on the project site. Prior to development, the removal of the raptor nest found in the eucalyptus tree will need to be coordinated with CDFW.

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Section 8 Conclusions

Based on the 2013 Jurisdictional Delineation Report, the project applicant will be required to obtain the following regulatory approvals: USACE Clean Water Act (CWA) Section 404 Nationwide Permit No. 39: Commercial and Institutional Developments; a RWQCB CWA Section 401 Water Quality Certification; and a CDFW Section 1602 Streambed Alteration Agreement (SAA). Separate from the regulatory permits, a Determination of Biologically Equivalent or Superior Preservation (DBESP) analysis will need to be prepared to address the loss of the riparian/riverine habitat under the MSHCP. It should be noted that the project site is no longer located within federally designated Critical Habitat.

Biologist Travis J. McGill conducted eight focused LBVI surveys on May 9, May 19, May, 29, June 8, June 19, June 29, July 12, and July 26, 2014. All surveys were conducted between the hours of 0600 and 1000. No LBVI were observed during these surveys and LBVI can be presumed to be absent from the project site.

To address potential impacts to the oak trees found on the southeast corner of the project site adjacent to Temescal Canyon Road, development shall adhere to the preservation standards contained in the Riverside County Heritage Tree Preservation and Protection Guideline or a certified arborist/licensed landscape architect to can prepare a Heritage Tree Preservation and Protection Plan for each heritage tree to protect them during grading and construction activities and for the life of the project.

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Section 9 References

Burt, W.H., 1986. A Field Guide to the Mammals in North American North of Mexico. Houghton Mifflin Company, Boston, Massachusetts.

California Department of Conservation, California Geological Survey website, www.consrv.ca.gov.

California Department of Fish and Wildlife, 2013. RareFind 4, California Natural Diversity Data Base, California.

California Native Plant Society, 2013. Inventory of Rare and Endangered Plants of California. Rare Plant Scientific Advisory Committee, David P. Tibor, Convening Editor. California Native Plant Society. Sacramento, California. Available at: http://www.cnps.org/inventory.

California Natural Diversity Data Base, 2013. Data Base report on threatened, endangered, rare or otherwise sensitive species and communities for the Lake Mathews and Alberhill 7.5-minute USGS quadrangles.

Garrett, K. and J. Dunn, 1981. Birds of Southern California. Los Angeles Audubon Society. The Artisan Press, Los Angeles, California.

Grinnell, J., 1933. Review of the Recent Mammal Fauna of California. University of California Publications in Zoology. 40:71-234.

Hall, E.R., 1981. The Mammals of North America, Volumes I and II. John Wiley and Sons, New York, New York.

Hickman, J.C., ed. 2012. The Jepson Manual: Higher Plants of California. University of California Press.

Holland, R. F. 1986. Preliminary descriptions of the Terrestrial Natural Communities of California. Calif. Dept. of Fish and Game, Sacramento, CA.

Ingles, L.G., 1965. Mammals of the Pacific States. Stanford University Press, Stanford, California.

Laudenslayer, Jr., W.F., W.E. Grenfell, Jr., and D.C. Zeiner, 1991. A Checklist of the Amphibians, Reptiles, Birds and Mammals of California. California Fish and Game 77:109-141.

Natural Resources Conservation Service, Hydric Soils List of California, February 2011. (http://soils.usda.gov/use/hydric/)

Munz, P.A., 1974. A Flora of Southern California. University of California Press, Berkeley, California.

Remsen, Jr., J.V., 1978. Bird Species of Special Concern in California. Non-game Wildlife Investigations. Wildlife Management Branch Administrative Report No 78-1. Report prepared for the California Department of Fish and Game.

Temescal Valley Toscana Village Habitat Assessment and MSHCP Consistency Analysis 43 References

Riverside County. 2003 (June). Final Western Riverside County Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan. http://www.rcip.org/

Riverside County Environmental Programs Department. March 29, 2006a. Burrowing Owl Survey Instructions for the Western Riverside Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan Area. Accessed on the internet at: http://www.tlma.co.riverside.ca.us/epd/documents/Burrowing_Owl_Survey_Instructionspdf

Skinner, M.W. and B.M. Pavlik, 1994. Inventory of Rare and Endangered Vascular Plants of California. California Native Plant Society, Spec. Pub. No. 1 (5th edition), Berkeley, California.

Stebbins, R.C., 1985. A Field Guide to Western Reptiles and Amphibians, Houghton Mifflin Company, Boston.

U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service, Web Soil Survey. (http://websoilsurvey.nrcs.usda.gov/app/)

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 1996. Review of plant and animal taxa for listing as endangered or threatened species; notice of review. Federal Register Vol. 61, No. 40.

Williams, D.F., 1986. Mammalian Species of Special Concern in California. Wildlife Management Division Administrative Report 86-1. Prepared for The Resources Agency, California Department of Fish and Game.

Temescal Valley Toscana Village Habitat Assessment and MSHCP Consistency Analysis 44

Appendix A RCIP Conservation Summary Report

Riverside County Transporation and Land Management Agency - TLMA

Western Riverside County Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (MSHCP)

APN Cell Cell Group Acres Area Plan Sub Unit 290130003 3350 A 0.14 Elsinore SU1 - Estelle Mtn/Indian Cyn 290130003 3448 A 0.29 Elsinore SU1 - Estelle Mtn/Indian Cyn 290130003 3350 I 0.01 Temescal Canyon SU3 - Temescal Wash West 290130004 3350 A 0.23 Elsinore SU1 - Estelle Mtn/Indian Cyn 290130004 3448 A 1.8 Elsinore SU1 - Estelle Mtn/Indian Cyn 290130004 3350 I 0.01 Temescal Canyon SU3 - Temescal Wash West 290130005 3350 A 0.05 Elsinore SU1 - Estelle Mtn/Indian Cyn 290130005 3448 A 3.4 Elsinore SU1 - Estelle Mtn/Indian Cyn 290130006 3448 A 0.08 Elsinore SU1 - Estelle Mtn/Indian Cyn 290130052 Not A Part Independent 0.36 Elsinore Not a Part 290130052 3349 Independent 0.14 Elsinore Not a Part 290130052 3349 I 0.01 Temescal Canyon SU3 - Temescal Wash West 290130053 Not A Part Independent 0.05 Elsinore Not a Part 290130053 3349 Independent 0.01 Elsinore Not a Part 290130053 3350 A 0.06 Elsinore SU1 - Estelle Mtn/Indian Cyn 290130053 3448 A 15.65 Elsinore SU1 - Estelle Mtn/Indian Cyn 290130054 3448 A 2.01 Elsinore SU1 - Estelle Mtn/Indian Cyn 290130055 3448 A 2.79 Elsinore SU1 - Estelle Mtn/Indian Cyn

391070055 3448 A 0.14 Elsinore SU1 - Estelle Mtn/Indian Cyn

HABITAT ASSESSMENTS

Habitat assessment shall be required and should address at a minimum potential habitat for the following species:

Amphibia Burrowing Criteria Area Mammalian Narrow Endemic Special Linkage APN Species Owl Species Species Plant Species Area 290130003 NO YES YES NO YES NO

290130004 NO YES YES NO YES NO 290130005 NO YES YES NO YES NO 290130006 NO YES YES NO YES NO 290130052 NO YES YES NO YES NO 290130053 NO YES YES NO YES NO 290130054 NO NO YES NO YES NO 290130055 NO NO YES NO YES NO 391070055 NO NO YES NO YES NO

Burrowing Owl

Burrowing owl.

Criteria Area Species

1) Thread-leaved brodiaea, Davidson's saltscale, Parish's brittlescale, Smooth Tarplant, Round-leaved filaree, Coulter's goldfields, Little Mousetail

Narrow Endemic Plant Species

1) Munz's onion, San Diego ambrosia, Slender-Horned Spineflower, Many-stemmed dudleya, Spreading navarretia, California Orcutt grass, San Miguel savory, Hammitt's clay-cress, Wright's trichocoronis.

If potential habitat for these species is determined to be located on the property, focused surveys may be required during the appropriate season.

Background

The final MSHCP was approved by the County Board of Supervisors on June 17, 2003. The federal and state permits were issued on June 22, 2004 and implementation of the MSHCP began on June 23, 2004.

For more information concerning the MSHCP, contact your local city or the County of Riverside for the unincorporated areas. Additionally, the Western Riverside County Regional Conservation Authority (RCA), which oversees all the cities and County implementation of the MSHCP, can be reached at:

Western Riverside County Regional Conservation Authority 3403 10th Street, Suite 320 Riverside, CA 92501

Phone: 951-955-9700 Fax: 951-955-8873 www.wrc-rca.org

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Appendix B Site Photographs

Photograph 1- From the southern boundary of the project site looking north at the annual grassland. Ten oak trees (right side of photo) are found on the eastern boundary of the project site adjacent to Temescal Canyon Road.

Photograph 2- Annual grassland across the middle of the project site

Appendix B Site Photographs

Photograph 3- Recessed area once used as a storage yard. Straw waddles on the slope.

Photograph 4- Drainage 4 and 5 within the recessed area. The southern cottonwood willow riparian forest is the light green vegetation on the left of the photo. The tall trees on the right site of the photo is the eucalyptus woodland.

Appendix B Site Photographs

Photograph 5- Southern cottonwood willow riparian forest on the northern portion of Drainage 1 adjacent to Temescal Canyon Road.

Photograph 6- Coast live oak riparian forest on the northern boundary of the project site associated with Drainage 6.

Appendix B Site Photographs

Photograph 7- Mulefat scrub associated with Drainage 1 on the southern third of the project site.

Photograph 8- Riversidean sage scrub on a slope above a dirt access road on the northern portion of the project site.

Appendix B Site Photographs

Photograph 9- Restored Riversidean sage scrub on a slope on the recessed area in the middle of the project site above Drainage 4.

Photograph 10- Disturbed area on the northern third above the recessed area.

Appendix C Sensitive Habitats and Potentially Occurring Sensitive Plant and Wildlife Species

Appendix C Suitable Habitats and Potentially Occurring Sensitive Plant and Wildlife Species

Suitable Habitats and Potentially Occurring Sensitive Plant and Wildlife Species

Scientific Name Observed Status Habitat Potential to Occur Common Name Onsite Wildlife Species Can be found in a wide variety of habitat including annual grasslands, wet and dry vernal pools and other seasonal wetlands, agricultural fields, cattle feedlots, and dairies. Occasionally forage in riparian scrub habitats along marsh borders. Basic Low: Agelaius tricolor Fed: None habitat requirements for breeding include No Marginal suitable habitat, no breeding Tricolored blackbird Ca: CSC open accessible water, protected nesting substrate (freshwater marsh dominated by habitat present onsite cattails, willows, and bulrushes [Schoenoplectus ssp.]), and either flooded or thorny or spiny vegetation and suitable foraging space providing adequate insect prey. Typically found between 3,000 and 6,000 feet in elevation. Breed in sparsely vegetated scrubland on hillsides and canyons. Prefers Low: Aimophila ruficeps canescens Fed: None coastal sage scrub dominated by California No Marginal suitable habitat within the Southern California rufous-crowned sparrow Ca: WL sagebrush (Artemisia californica), but they can also be found breeding in coastal bluff disturbed/sparse RSS scrub, low-growing serpentine chaparral, and along the edges of tall chaparral habitats. Amphispiza belli belli Fed: None Occurs in chaparral dominated by fairly Presumed Absent: dense stands of chamise. Also found in No Bell’s sage sparrow Ca: WL coastal sage scrub in south of range. No suitable habitat Semi-arid brushy areas typically with loose Aspidoscelis hyperythra Fed: None soil and rocks, including washes, Low: No Orangethroat whiptail Ca: CSC streamsides, rocky hillsides, and coastal Marginal suitable habitat chaparral. Aspidoscelis tigris stejnegeri Fed: None Found in a variety of ecosystems, primarily Low: hot and dry open areas with sparse foliage - No Coastal whiptail Ca: CSC chaparral, woodland, and riparian areas. Marginal suitable habitat Moderate: Occurs in dry, open areas such as grasslands, Athene cunicularia Fed: None Focused surveys conducted in 2012 were prairies, savannas, deserts, farmlands, golf No burrowing owl Ca: CSC courses and other urban areas negative and no sgin was observed during the 2013 habitat assessment. Appendix C Suitable Habitats and Potentially Occurring Sensitive Plant and Wildlife Species

Scientific Name Observed Status Habitat Potential to Occur Common Name Onsite Low: Chaetodipus fallax fallax Fed: None Open habitat on the Pacific slope from southwestern San Bernardino County to No Marginal suitable habitat within the northwestern San Diego pocket mouse Ca: CSC northwestern Baja California. disturbed/sparse RSS Found on beaches and barren ground with sparse vegetation, dry salt flats in lagoons, Charadrius alexandrinus nivosus Fed: THR dredge spoils deposited on beach or dune Presumed Absent: No western snowy plover Ca: CSC habitat, levees and flats at salt evaporation No suitable habitat ponds, river bars, along alkaline or saline lakes, reservoirs, and ponds. Occupies habitats with a mixture of a brushy Charina trivirgata Fed: None cover and rocky soil such as coastal canyons Presumed Absent: No Rosy boa Ca: None and hillsides, desert canyons, washes and No suitable habitat mountains. It can be found from the desert, through dense chaparral in the foothills (it avoids the mountains above around 4,000 feet), to warm inland mesas and valleys, all the way to the cool ocean shore. It is most commonly associated with heavy brush with Moderate: Crotalus ruber Fed: None large rocks or boulders. Dense chaparral in the foothills, cactus or boulder associated No Suitable habitat within the Red-diamond rattlesnake Ca: CSC coastal sage scrub, oak and pine woodlands, disturbed/sparse RSS and desert slope scrub associations are known to carry populations of the northern red-diamond rattlesnake; however, chamise and red shank associations may offer better structural habitat for refuges and food resources for this species than other habitats. Occur in arid and semi-arid habitats with some grass or brush. Prefer open habitats Dipodomys stephensi Fed: END with less than 50% protective cover. Require Presumed Absent: No Stephen’s kangaroo rat Ca: THR soft, well-drained substrate for building No suitable habitat burrows and are typically found in areas with sandy soil. Primarily a cliff-dwelling species, roost generally under exfoliating rock slabs. Eumops perotis californicus Fed: None Roosts are generally high above the ground, Presumed Absent: usually allowing a clear vertical drop of at No Western mastiff bat Ca: CSC least 3 meters below the entrance for flight. No suitable habitat In California, it is most frequently encountered in broad open areas. Its foraging Appendix C Suitable Habitats and Potentially Occurring Sensitive Plant and Wildlife Species

Scientific Name Observed Status Habitat Potential to Occur Common Name Onsite habitat includes dry desert washes, flood plains, chaparral, oak woodland, open ponderosa pine forest, grassland, and agricultural areas. Occur primarily at or near seacoasts, rivers, Haliaeetus leucocephalus Fed: Delisted swamps, and large lakes. Need ample Presumed Absent: No Bald eagle Ca: END foraging opportunities, typically neat a large No suitable habitat water source. Primarily found in tall, dense, relatively wide riparian woodlands and thickets of willows, vine tangles, and dense brush with Low: Icteria virens Fed: None well developed understories. Nesting area are associated with streams, swampy ground, No Marginal suitable habitat within riparian Yellow-breasted chat Ca: CSC and the borders of small ponds. Breeding vegetation associated with Drainage 4 habitat must be dense to provide shade and concealment. It winters south the Central America. Lepus californicus bennettii Fed: None Occupies many diverse habitats, but Low: primarily is found in arid regions supporting No San Diego black-tailed jackrabbit Ca: CSC short-grass habitats. Marginal suitable habitat Roosts in buildings, mines, caves, or crevices and also has been observed roosting Myotis yumanensis Fed: None in abandoned swallow nests and under Presumed Absent: bridges. Distribution is closely tied to No Yuma myotis Ca: None bodies of water, which it uses as foraging No suitable habitat sites and sources of drinking water. Open forest and woodlands are optimal habitat. Roosts primarily in crevices of rugged cliffs, high rocky outcrops and slopes. It has been Nyctinomops femorosaccus Fed: None found in a variety of plant associations, Presumed Absent: No pocketed free-tailed bat Ca: CSC including desert shrub and pine-oak forests. No suitable habitat The species may also roost in buildings, caves, and under roof tiles. Found in a wide variety of vegetation types including coastal sage scrub, annual grassland, chaparral, oak woodland, riparian Low: Phrynosoma blaivillii Fed: None woodland and coniferous forest. The key No Marginal suitable habitat within the coast horned lizard Ca: CSC elements of such habitats are loose, fine soils with a high sand fraction; an abundance of disturbed/sparse RSS native ants or other insects; and open areas with limited overstory for basking and low, Appendix C Suitable Habitats and Potentially Occurring Sensitive Plant and Wildlife Species

Scientific Name Observed Status Habitat Potential to Occur Common Name Onsite but relatively dense shrubs for refuge. Prefers to feed in fresh emergent wetland, shallow lacustrine waters, muddy ground of Plegadis chihi Fed: None wet meadows, and irrigated or flooded Presumed Absent: pastures and croplands. Roosts amidst dense, No white-faced ibis Ca: WL freshwater emergent vegetation such as No suitable habitat bulrushes, cattails, reeds or low shrubs over water. Obligate resident of sage scrub habitats that are dominated by California sagebrush Moderate: (Artemisia californica). This species Polioptila californica californica Fed: THR Suitable habitat occurs east of the proejct generally occurs below 750 feet elevation in No coastal California gnatcatcher Ca: CSC coastal regions and below 1,500 feet inland. site. The RSS onsite has a slight It prefers habitat with more low-growing possibility of providing suitable habitat vegetation. Salvadora hexalepis virgultea Fed: None Inhabits semi-arid brushy areas and Presumed Absent: chaparral in canyons, rocky hillsides, and No coast patch-nosed snake Ca: CSC plains. No suitable habitat Prefers open areas with sandy or gravelly soils, in a variety of habitats including mixed woodlands, grasslands, coastal sage scrub, Spea hammondii Fed: None chaparral, sandy washed, lowlands, river Presumed Absent: No Western spadefoot Ca: CSC floodplains, alluvial fans, playas, alkali flats, No suitable habitat foothills, and mountains. Rainpools which do not contain bullfrogs, fish, or crayfish are necessary for breeding. Primarily occupy Riverine riparian habitat that typically feature dense cover within 1 -2 meters of the ground and a dense, stratified High: Vireo bellii pusillus Fed: END canopy. Typically it is associated with southern willow scrub, cottonwood-willow No Suitable habitat within the riparian least Bell's vireo Ca: END forest, mule fat scrub, sycamore alluvial vegetation associated with Drainage 4 woodlands, coast live oak riparian forest, arroyo willow riparian forest, or mesquite in desert localities. Plant Species Fed: None Found on the coastal side of the southern Abronia densifolium ssp. sanctorum California mountains in chaparral and Presumed Absent: Ca: None No Chaparral sand verbena coastal sage scrub plant communities in No suitable habitat CNPS: 1B.1 areas of full sun and sandy soils. Appendix C Suitable Habitats and Potentially Occurring Sensitive Plant and Wildlife Species

Scientific Name Observed Status Habitat Potential to Occur Common Name Onsite Grows in grassy openings in coastal sage scrub, chaparral, juniper woodland, and Fed: END valley and foothill grasslands. It is found on Presumed Absent: Allium munzii Ca: THR mesic exposures or seasonally moist No Focused survey conducted in 2012 was Munz’s onion microsites in southwestern Riverside County negative. Site conditions have not CNPS: 1B.1 and is associated with a special “clay soil changed since the 2012 survey. flora” found in southwestern Riverside County Occurs in open habitats in coarse substrates near drainages, and in upland areas on clay Fed: END Ambrosia pumila slopes or on the dry margins of vernal pools. Presumed Absent: Ca: None This species occurs in a variety of No San Diego ambrosia No suitable habitat CNPS: 1B.1 associations that are dominated by sparse grasslands or marginal wetland habitats such as river terraces, pools, and alkali playas. Round-leaved filaree typically occurs in Presumed Absent: Fed: None cismontane woodland, valley grassland, and California macrophylla Focused survey conducted in 2012 was Ca: None chaparral within the Riverside lowlands and No round-leaved filaree negative. Site conditions have not CNPS: 1B.1 Santa Ana Mountains bioregions. It is thought to prefer clay soils. changed since the 2012 survey. Fed: None Occurs on dry, rocky open slopes and rock Calochortus weedii var. intermedius outcrops in sage scrub and chaparral at Presumed Absent: Ca: None No intermediate mariposa-lily elevations from 120m to 850 m. Occurs in No suitable habitat CNPS: 1B.2 valley and foothill grasslands after burns. Fed: None Centromadia pungens ssp. laevis Low: Ca: None Occurs in meadows, playas, riparian No smooth tarplant woodland, valley and foothill grassland. Marginal suitable habitat CNPS: 1B.1 Fed: None Occurs within the alluvial chaparral and Chorizanthe parryi var. parryi scrub of the San Gabriel, San Bernardino Presumed Absent: Ca: None No Parry's spineflower and San Jacinto Mountains, at elevations of No suitable habitat CNPS: 1B.1 100 to 1,300 m above msl. Fed: None Chorizanthe polygonoides var. longispina Associated with heavy, often rocky, clay Presumed Absent: Ca: None soils in southern needlegrass, and openings No long-spined spineflower No suitable habitat CNPS: 1B.2 in sage scrub and chaparral Primarily restricted to rocky, gabbroic and Fed: None metavolcanic substrates in sage scrub, Presumed Absent: Clinopodium chandleri Ca: None chaparral, cismontane woodland, riparian No Focused survey conducted in 2012 was San Miguel savory woodland, and valley and foothill grassland negative. Site conditions have not CNPS: 1B.2 between 400 and 3,300 feet. This species is changed since the 2012 survey. primarily found in association with the Santa Appendix C Suitable Habitats and Potentially Occurring Sensitive Plant and Wildlife Species

Scientific Name Observed Status Habitat Potential to Occur Common Name Onsite Rosa Plateau and Santa Ana Mountains. Found in sandy soil in association with Fed: END mature alluvial scrub. Ideal habitat appears Dodecahema leptoceras to be a terrace or bench that receives Presumed Absent: Ca: END No slender-horned spineflower overbank deposits every 50 to 100 years. No suitable habitat CNPS: 1B.1 Cryptogamic crusts are frequently present in occupied areas. Often on clay soils and around granitic Presumed Absent: Fed: None outcrops in chaparral, coastal sage scrub, and Dudleya multicaulis Focused survey conducted in 2012 was Ca: None grasslands; below 2,500-foot elevation; Los No many-stemmed dudleya negative. Site conditions have not CNPS: 1B.2 Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, and San Diego Counties. changed since the 2012 survey. Fed: None Harpagonella palmeri Prefers clay vertisols with open grassy Presumed Absent: Ca: None No Palmer’s grapplinghook slopes or open sage scrub or open chaparral. No suitable habitat CNPS: 4.2 Fed: None Hesperocyparis forbesii Presumed Absent: Ca: None Closed-cone coniferous forest, chaparral No Tecate cypress No suitable habitat CNPS: 1B.1 Fed: None Open sandy fields and chaparral to 2500', Horkelia cuneata var. puberula mostly away from the coast, old dunes, Presumed Absent: Ca: None No mesa horkelia foothill edge of LA Basin, south Coast, No suitable habitat CNPS: 1B.1 Peninsular range Fed: None Lepechinia cardiophylla Restricted to chaparral and woodlands and Presumed Absent: Ca: None forests at elevations between 550m and No heart-leaved pitcher sage No suitable habitat CNPS: 1B.2 1,370m within the Santa Ana Mountains Fed: None Low: Lepidium virginicum var. robinsonii Dry soils within chaparral and coastal sage Ca: None No Marginal suitable habitat within the Robinson's pepper-grass scrub habitat. CNPS: 1B.2 disturbed/sparse RSS Fed: None Monardella hypoleuca ssp. intermedia Grows in the coastal hills and mountains in Presumed Absent: Ca: None No intermediate monardella chaparral and woodland. No suitable habitat CNPS: 1B.3 Fed: None Found on dry slopes, ridges and openings in Monardella macrantha ssp. hallii broadleaved upland forest, chaparral, lower Presumed Absent: Ca: None No Hall’s monardella montane coniferous forest, cismontane No suitable habitat CNPS: 1B.3 woodland, and valley and foothill grassland. Symphyotrichum defoliatum Fed: None Grows in grasslands and disturbed areas to Presumed Absent: about 4,500 feet elevation in the San Gabriel No San Bernardino aster Ca: None and San Bernardino Mountains and No suitable habitat Appendix C Suitable Habitats and Potentially Occurring Sensitive Plant and Wildlife Species

Scientific Name Observed Status Habitat Potential to Occur Common Name Onsite CNPS: 1B.2 Peninsular Range. Occurs in vernally wet sites including ditches, streams, and springs in many plant communities. Fed: None Tortula californica Chenopod scrub, valley and foothill Presumed Absent: Ca: None No California screw grass grassland No suitable habitat CNPS: 1B.2 Sensitive Habitats Similar to Coast Live Oak Forest, but usually denser and not so tall. Typically CDFW Sensitive forms forests with little understory up to 20 Canyon Live Oak Ravine Forest No Absent Habitat meters tall in canyons or on north-facing slopes, and low, chaparral-like stands. Trees often with multiple trunks. Open to locally dense evergreen riparian woodlands dominated by Quercus agrifolia. This type appears to be richer in herbs and Present CDFW Sensitive poorer in understory shrubs than other Southern Coast Live Oak Riparian Forest No Found on the northern boundary of the Habitat riparian communities. Bottomlands and outer floodplains along larger streams, on project site fine-grained, rich alluvium. Canyons and valleys of coastal southern California. Dominated by cottonwood (Populus ssp.) and willow (Salix ssp.) trees and shrubs. Present CDFW Sensitive Considered to be an early successional stage Southern Cottonwood Willow Riparian Forest No Found in association with Drainage 4 and Habitat as both species are known to germinate almost exclusively on recently deposited or on the northern portion of Drainage 1 exposed alluvial soils. CDFW Sensitive Riparian zones dominated by small trees or Southern Riparian Forest No Absent Habitat shrubs, lacking taller riparian trees. Below 2,000 meters in elevation, sycamore and alder often occur along seasonally- CDFW Sensitive flooded banks; cottonwoods and willows Southern Sycamore Alder Riparian Woodland No Absent Habitat also are often present. Poison-oak, mugwort, elderberry and wild raspberry may be present in the understory. Dense, broadleaved, winter-deciduous CDFW Sensitive riparian thickets dominated by several Salix Southern Willow Scrub species, with scattered emergent Populus No Absent Habitat fremontii and Plantanus racemosa. Most stands are too dense to allow much Appendix C Suitable Habitats and Potentially Occurring Sensitive Plant and Wildlife Species

Scientific Name Observed Status Habitat Potential to Occur Common Name Onsite understory development. Loose, sandy or fine gravelly alluvium deposited near stream channels during flood flows. This early seral type required repeated flooding to prevent succession to Southern Cottonwood- Sycamore Riparian Forest.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) - California Department of Fish and California Native Plant Society (CNPS) Federal Game (CDFG) - California California Rare Plant Rank Threat Ranks END- Federal Endangered END - California Endangered 1A Plants rare, threatened, or endangered 0.1- Seriously threatened in THR- Federal Threatened THR- California Threatened in CA and elsewhere California FCE- Federal Candidate Endangered CCE- California Candidate Endangered 1B Plants rare, threatened, or endangered 0.2 - Fairly threatened in California FSC- Federal Species of Concern CSC- California Species of Concern in CA but mor e common elsewhere 0.3 - Not very threatened in WL- Watch List 2 Lack information to assign a rank California FP- Fully Protected (review list) Rare 3 Limited Distribution or infrequent throughout a broader area in California (watch list)

Appendix D Flora and Fauna Compendium

Flora Observed

Scientific Name Common Name Acmispon glaber Deerweed Amaranthus palmeri Palmer’s amaranth Ambrosia psilostachya Western ragweed Artemisia californica California sagebrush Artemisia dracunculus Tarragon Avena barbata Slender oat Avena fatua Wild oat Baccharis pilularis Coyote bush Baccharis salicifolia Mulefat Baccharis salicina Broom baccharis Bromus diandrus Ripgut Bromus madritensis Red brome Centaurea melitensis Tocalote Conyza canadensis Horseweed Corethrogyne filaginifolia Cudweed aster Croton setigerus Dove weed Cryptantha ssp. Cryptantha Cylindropuntia californica Valley cholla Datura wrightii Jimson weed Deinandra paniculata Paniculate tarplant Encelia farinosa Brittlebush Ericameria palmeri Palmer’s goldenbush Eriogonum fasciculatum California buckwheat Eucalyptus ssp. Eucalyptus Helianthus annuus Sunflower Heliotropium curassavicum Chinese purslane Heterotheca grandiflora Telegraphweed Hirschfeldia incana Short-podded mustard Isocoma menziesii Coast goldenbush Lactuca serriola Prickly lettuce Nicotiana glauca Tree tobacco Phacelia distans Common phacelia Platanus racemosa Western sycamore Populus fremontii Cottonwood Pseudognaphalium californicum California everlasting Quercus agrifolia Coast live oak Rhus ovata Sugar bush Rumex crispus Curly dock Salix gooddingii Black willow Salsola tragus Tumbleweed Salvia apiana White sage Sambucus nigra Elderberry

Appendix D Flora and Fauna Compendium

Schinus molle Peruvian pepper Sisymbrium irio London rocket Stephanomeria exigua Werath plant Tamarix ramosissima Salt cedar Tetradymia stenolepis Cotton thorn Toxicodendron diversilobum Poison oak Typha latifolia Cattails

Fauna Observed

Scientific Name Common Name Birds Aphelocoma californica Western scrub-jay Buteo jamaicensis Red-tailed hawk Calypte anna Anna’s hummingbird Carpodacus mexicanus House finch Cathartes aura Turkey vulture Corvus brachyrhynchos American crow Falco sparverius American kestrel Mimus polyglottos Northern mockingbird Pipilo crissalis California towhee Psaltriparus minimus Bushtit Sayornis saya Say’s phoebe Spinus psaltria Lesser goldfinch Sturnella neglecta Western meadowlark Tyrannus vociferans Cassin’s kingbird Zenaida macroura Mourning dove Mammals Otospermophilus beecheyi California ground squirrel Sylvilagus audubonii Cottontail Thomomys bottae Botta’s pocket gopher

Appendix E April 2012 Osborne Biological Consulting Survey for Burrowing Owl; Survey for Hammitt’s Clay-cress, Many- stemmed Dudleya, Munz’s Onion, and Round-leaved Filaree; MSHCP Consistency Analysis

Appendix F Riverside County Planning Department Checklist and Letter for HANS Application

Appendix G Regulatory Background

Special status species are native species that have been afforded special legal or management protection because of concern for their continued existence. There are several categories of protection at both federal and state levels, depending on the magnitude of threat to continued existence and existing knowledge of population levels.

Federal Endangered Species Act The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) administers the federal Endangered Species Act (FESA) that provides a process for listing species as either threatened or endangered, and methods of protecting listed species. The FESA defines as “endangered” any plant or animal species that is in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its range. A “threatened” species is a species that is likely to become endangered in the foreseeable future. A “proposed” species is one that has been officially proposed by USFWS for addition to the federal threatened and endangered species list.

Section 9 of the FESA prohibits “take” of threatened or endangered species. The term “take” means to harass, harm, pursue, hunt, shoot, wound, kill, trap, capture, or collect, or to attempt to engage in such conduct. The presence of any federally threatened or endangered species that are in a project area generally imposes severe constraints on development, particularly if development would result in “take” of the species or its habitat. Under the regulations of the FESA, the USFWS may authorize “take” when it is incidental to, but not the purpose of, an otherwise lawful act.

California Endangered Species Act The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) administers the California Endangered Species Act (CESA). The State of California considers an endangered species as one whose prospects of survival and reproduction are in immediate jeopardy. A threatened species is considered as one present in such small numbers throughout its range that it is likely to become an endangered species in the near future in the absence of special protection or management. A rare species is one that is considered present in such small numbers throughout its range that it may become endangered if its present environment worsens. State threatened and endangered species are fully protected against take, as defined above.

Section 3503, 3511, and 3513 of California Fish and Wildlife Code The CDFW administers the California Fish and Wildlife Code. There are particular sections of the Code that are applicable to natural resource management. For example, Section 3503 of the Code makes it unlawful to destroy any birds’ nest or any birds’ egges that are protected under the MBTA. Further, any birds in the orders Falconiformes or Strigiformes (Birds of Prey, such as hawks, eagles, and owls) are protected under Section 3503.5 of the Code which makes it unlawful to take, possess, or destroy their nest or eggs. A consultation with CDFW will be required prior to the removal of any bird of prey nest that may occur on Appendix G Regulatory Background

a project site. Section 3511 of the Code lists fully protected bird species, where the CDFW is unable to authorize the issuance of permits or licenses to take these species. Pertinent species that are State fully protected include golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos), and white- tailed kite (Elanus leucurus). Section 3513 of the Code makes it unlawful to take or possess any migratory nongame bird as designated in the MBTA or any part of such migratory nongame bird except as provided by rules and regulations adopted by the Secretary of the Interior under provisions of the MBTA.

Migratory Bird Treaty Act The Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) makes it unlawful to pursue, capture, kill, or possess or attempt to do the same to any migratory bird or part, nest, or egg of any such bird listed in wildlife protection treaties between the United States, Great Britain, Mexico, Japan, and the countries of the former Soviet Union.

Western Riverside County MSHCP The MSHCP is a comprehensive, multi-jurisdictional HCP focusing on conservation of species and their associated habitats in western Riverside County. The goal of the MSHCP is to maintain biological and ecological diversity within a rapidly urbanizing region.

The approval of the MSHCP and execution of the Implementing Agreement (IA) by the wildlife agencies allows signatories of the IA to issue “take” authorizations for all species covered by the MSHCP, including state- and federal-listed species as well as other identified sensitive species and/or their habitats. Each city or local jurisdiction will impose a Development Mitigation Fee for projects within their jurisdiction. With payment of the mitigation fee to the County and compliance with the survey requirements of the MSHCP where required, full mitigation in compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), CESA, and FESA will be granted. The Development Mitigation Fee varies according to project size and project description. The fee for residential development ranges from approximately $800 per unit to $1,600 per unit depending on development density (County Ordinance 810.2). Payment of the mitigation fee and compliance with the requirements of Section 6.0 of the MSHCP are intended to provide full mitigation under CEQA, NEPA, CESA, and FESA for impacts to the species and habitats covered by the MSHCP pursuant to agreements with the USFWS, the CDFW, and/or any other appropriate participating regulatory agencies and as set forth in the IA for the MSHCP.

Appendix G Regulatory Background

There are three key agencies that regulate activities within inland streams, wetlands, and riparian areas in California. The Corps Regulatory Branch regulates activities pursuant to Section 404 of the Federal Clean Water Act (CWA) and Section 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act. Of the State agencies, the CDFG regulates activities under the Fish and Game Code Section 1600-1616, and the Regional Board regulates activities pursuant to Section 401 of the CWA and the California Porter-Cologne Water Quality Control Act.

Section 404 of the Federal Clean Water Act Section 404 of the federal Clean Water Act, which is administered by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), regulates the discharge of dredge and fill material into waters of the United States (U.S.). USACE has established a series of nationwide permits that authorize certain activities in waters of the U.S., provided that a proposed activity can demonstrate compliance with standard conditions. Normally, USACE requires an individual permit for an activity that will affect an area equal to or in excess of 0.5 acre of waters of the U.S. projects that result in impacts to less than 0.5 acre can normally be conducted pursuant to one of the nationwide permits, if consistent with the standard permit conditions. Use of any nationwide permit is contingent on the activities having no impacts to endangered species.

Section 1600 of the California Fish and Wildlife Code All diversions, obstructions, or changes to the natural flow or bed, channel, or bank of any river, stream, or lake in California are subject to the regulatory authority of the CDFG pursuant to sections 1600 through 1603 of the Code, requiring preparation of a Streambed Alteration Agreement. Under the Code, a stream is defined as a body of water that flows at least periodically, or intermittently, through a bed or channel having banks and supporting fish or other aquatic life. Included are watercourses with surface or subsurface flows that support or have supported riparian vegetation. CDFG also has jurisdiction within altered or artificial waterways based on the value of those waterways to fish and wildlife, and also has jurisdiction over dry washes that carry water ephemerally during storm events.

Section 401 of the Clean Water Act Applicants for a federal license or permit for activities which may discharge to waters of the United States must seek Water Quality Certification from the state or Indian tribe with jurisdiction.1 Such Certification is based on a finding that the discharge will meet water quality standards and other applicable requirements. In California, Regional Boards issue or deny Certification for discharges within their geographical jurisdiction. Water Quality Certification must be based on a finding that the proposed discharge will comply with water quality standards, which are defined as numeric and narrative objectives in each Regional Board’s Basin Plan. Where applicable, the State Water Resources Control Board has this responsibility for projects affecting waters within multiple Regional Boards. The Regional

1 Title 33, United States Code, Section 1341; Clean Water Act Section. Appendix G Regulatory Background

Board’s jurisdiction extends to all waters of the State (includes SWANCC and Rapanos conditions) and to all WoUS, including wetlands.

Section 401 of the Clean Water Act requires that "any applicant for a federal permit for activities that involve a discharge to waters of the State, shall provide the federal permitting agency a certification from the State in which the discharge is proposed that states that the discharge will comply with the applicable provisions under the federal Clean Water Act." Therefore, before the USACE will issue a Section 404 permit, applicants must apply for and receive a Section 401 water quality certification from the Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB).

Porter Cologne Act The California Porter-Cologne Water Quality Control Act gives the State very broad authority to regulate waters of the State, which are defined as any surface water or groundwater, including saline waters. The Porter-Cologne Act has become an important tool in the post SWANCC and Rapanos regulatory environment, with respect to the state’s authority over isolated and insignificant waters. Generally, any person proposing to discharge waste into a water body that could affect its water quality must file a Report of Waste Discharge in the event that there is no Section 404/401 nexus. Although “waste” is partially defined as any waste substance associated with human habitation, the Regional Board also interprets this to include fill discharged into water bodies.