Tenaya Lodge Explorer Cabins Biotic Report Addendum

Fish Camp, Mariposa County,

Project #3540-05

Prepared for: Blair, Church & Flynn 451 Clovis Ave, Suite 200 Clovis, CA 93612

Prepared by:

H. T. Harvey & Associates

February 2016

7815 N. Palm Ave., Suite 310 Fresno, CA 93711  Ph: 559.476.3160  F: 559.476.3170 Table of Contents

Section 1. Introduction ...... 1 Section 2. Project Description ...... 4 2.1 Background...... 4 2.2 Project Location ...... 4 2.3 Key Concepts ...... 4 2.4 Project Components ...... 5 2.4.1 Parking and Access ...... 5 2.4.2 Clubhouse Building ...... 6 2.4.3 Cabins and Utilities ...... 6 2.4.4 Landscaping ...... 7 2.4.5 Snow Storage ...... 7 2.4.6 Residential Parcel Dedication ...... 7 Section 3. Methods ...... 8 Section 4. Results ...... 9 4.1 Biotic Habitats ...... 9 4.2 Special-Status and Wildlife Species and Designated Critical Habitat...... 9 4.2.1 Jepson’s Dodder (Cuscuta jepsonii) ...... 10 4.2.2 Oval-leaved Viburnum (Viburnum ellipticum) ...... 10 4.2.3 Yosemite Popcornflower (Plagiobothrys torreyi var. torreyi) ...... 11 4.2.4 Mountain Beaver (Aplodontia rufa californica) ...... 11 4.3 Tree Inventory ...... 11 4.4 Sensitive Natural Communities ...... 12 Section 5. Direct and Indirect Effects ...... 17 5.1 Criterion A: Adverse Effects on Candidate, Sensitive, or Special-Status Species ...... 18 5.1.1 Special-Status ...... 18 5.1.2 Special-Status Wildlife ...... 18 5.2 Criterion B: Adverse Effects on Sensitive Natural Communities ...... 23 5.3 Criterion C: Adverse Effects on Federally Protected Wetlands, as Defined by Section 404 of the Clean Water Act ...... 23 5.4 Criterion D: Adverse Effects on the Movement of Any Native Resident or Migratory Fish or Wildlife Species or with Established Native or Migratory Wildlife Corridors, or the Use of Native Wildlife Nursery Sites ...... 24 5.5 Criterion E: Conflict with Any Local Policies or Ordinances Protecting Biological Resources, Such as a Tree Preservation Policy or Ordinance ...... 24 5.6 Criterion F: Conflict with an Adopted Habitat Conservation Plan, Natural Community Conservation Plan, or Other Approved Local, Regional, or State Habitat Conservation Plan ...... 24 Section 6. Cumulative Impacts ...... 25 Section 7. References ...... 27

Tenaya Explorer Cabins Project H. T. Harvey & Associates i Biotic Report Addendum February 2016

Figures

Figure 1. Vicinity Map ...... 2 Figure 2. Proposed Site Plan ...... 3 Figure 3. Biotic Habitats ...... 13 Figure 4. CNDDB Map ...... 14 Figure 5. Tree Inventory ...... 15 Figure 6. Potential Impacts to Sensitive Natural Communities ...... 16 Figure 7. Special-Status Plant Occurrence Map ...... 22

Appendices

Appendix A. Project Site Plans ...... A-1 Appendix B. Special-status Plant and Animal Species with Potential to Occur ...... B-1 Appendix C. Full Text of Mitigation Measures ...... C-1

Preparers

Brian Boroski, Ph.D., Vice President Amy Sparks, J.D., Associate Regulatory Specialist Susan V. Christopher, Ph.D., Senior Wildlife Ecologist, Project Manager Ethan Barnes, M.S., Plant Ecologist Jacquelyn Maher, M.S., Wildlife Ecologist Colin Wilkinson, B.S., Plant Ecologist James Merk, Technical Editor Mark Lagarde, Senior GIS Specialist Cissy Fu, GIS Specialist

Tenaya Explorer Cabins Project H. T. Harvey & Associates ii Biotic Report Addendum February 2016

Section 1. Introduction

On behalf of Blair, Church & Flynn, H. T. Harvey & Associates performed a desktop review and reconnaissance survey of environmental conditions and biological resources for the revised site plan for the Tenaya Lodge Explorer Cabins Project, in Fish Camp, Mariposa County (Figure 1). This report, which serves as an addendum to the project’s biotic report (H. T. Harvey & Associates 2014), presents a supplemental analysis of impacts within new areas encompassed by the revised site plan (Appendix A) for incorporation into the primary analysis prepared for the project in compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).

This report also provides an update to the project description (Section 2.0). In summary, the project site was revised to include a utility corridor between the proposed Explorer Cabins site and existing Tenaya Lodge facilities, improvements to a portion of Highway 41, and a half-acre dedicated parcel (Parcel 2) that would remain a residential lot (Figure 2, Appendix A). The utility corridor would have water lines and containment structures, sewer lines connecting to the Tenaya Lodge wastewater treatment system, and telecommunications lines. The utilities would cross a wet meadow adjacent to an existing unpaved road, where a boardwalk would be constructed for pedestrian access between the cabins and lodge (Figure 2, Appendix A). The revised site plan also calls for the installation of up to 54 prefabricated cabins, an increase from the 34 cabins evaluated in the project’s biotic report (H. T. Harvey & Associates 2014). The revised project site, which increased from 24.23 acres to 28.74 acres, avoids almost all Rainbow Lake and surrounding wet meadow in the northern area, and portions of Big Creek that were previously considered part of the project (H. T. Harvey & Associates 2014) (Figure 2, Appendix A). Refinements of the site plan also include a system of pedestrian pathways, a second access road from Highway 41, and fire pits (Figure 2, Appendix A).

This report incorporates earlier reports that support the project’s CEQA analysis (H. T. Harvey & Associates 2015a, 2015b, 2015c), and presents an analysis of impacts that might occur as a result of development based upon the revised site plan. An updated analysis of special-status species that could occur on the site was also performed. Finally, this report addresses comments provided by the County of Mariposa pertaining to the preparation of the project Environmental Impact Report (Ascent Environmental 2015).

Tenaya Explorer Cabins Project H. T. Harvey & Associates 1 Biotic Report Addendum February 2016

Squirrel Creek CALAVERAS Detail FOREST DR ChilnualnaChilnualna Creek Creek Sonora TUOLUMNE California S out th Forrk Mer rced R WAWONA Rive 120 MONO er 120

MEADOW CIRCLE RD 49 140 41 Project

k k MARIPOSA ee Vicinity ee rr 59 Rush CC Mariposa 140

MADERA

MERCED

B 152 ii gg

C Madera C 145

r r ee e k 168 FRESNO 99 180 Fresno

269 33 0 20 kk 41 TULARE ee

e e r r Miles CC

l

l ee 5S06 rr 25 RainierRainier CreekCreek uu aa LL 5S22

5S06

5S22

SUMMIT RD eekk Mariposa County ree C r w ddoo eeaa 5S43 M gg M Lon

5S37

SUMMIT RD CEDAR AVE hiieff Brranch e C FISH Project Site hhiitt Raiiniier Cr e kk W CAMP re e 5S22

6S07 JACKSON RD LEWIS 6S07 FORK

Madera County

41

5S18

LOCUST RD

630 M ia m 5S19

ii CC

rr e e kk

C a rt te 6S90 r C r re e k Peterson Creek 6S47Y Sources: Esri, HERE, DeLorme, USGS, Intermap, increment P Corp., 628 1 0.5 0 1 6S97 NRCAN, Esri Japan, METI, Esri China (Hong Kong), Esri (Thailand),

MapmyIndia, © OpenStreetMap contributors,CALVIN CREST RD and the GIS User Community Miles 6S70 N:\Projects3500\3540-01\05\Reports\Biotic ReportAddendum\Fig 1 Vicinity Map.mxd

Figure 1: Vicinity Map Tenaya Lodge Explorer Cabins Biotic Report Addendum (3540-05) February 2016 LEGEND Project Site Boundary

Original Project Site Boundary

New Construction

New Utility Lines Communications Bank

Fish Camp Electrical Service Electrical and Communication Joint Trench Fire Line Highway 41 Propane Line Recycled Water Line Rainbow Lake Sewer Line Water Line Snow Storage Areas/Potential Onsite Drainage System

Snow Storage Areas/Potential Parcel 1 Onsite Drainage System Road Shoulder Improvements Fire Pit Proposed Lift Station

Fire Pit

Fire Pit Clubhouse

Fire Pit

Proposed Propane Tank

Fire Pit Parcel 2

Snow Storage Areas/Potential Onsite Drainage System

Snow Storage Areas/Potential Onsite Drainage System

Proposed Boardwalk

Potential Lift Station

Existing Water Tank

Proposed Water Tank

Tenaya Lodge

Existing Recycled Water Distribution Building and Tank

200 100 0 200

Feet Imagery Sourse: ESRI NAIP 2014 N:\Projects3500\3540-01\05\Reports\Biotic ReportAddendum\Fig 2 Proposed Site Plan.mxd

Figure 2: Proposed Site Plan Tenaya Lodge Explorer Cabins Biotic Report Addendum (3540-05) February 2016

Section 2. Project Description

2.1 Background

The Tenaya Lodge is an existing mountain resort set in forested lands near the southern gate of Yosemite National Park, and adjacent to the , in Fish Camp, California. Tenaya Lodge offers guest accommodations and conference facilities within a 249-room destination hotel and 53 rooms in 17 separate cottage buildings. The all-season resort offers onsite amenities and access to a range of recreational activities in the surrounding region. Tenaya Lodge is proposing to add up to 54 pre-manufactured cabins and a clubhouse on a site adjacent to and immediately to the north of the Tenaya Lodge (Figure 2, Appendix A). The objective of the proposed Tenaya Explorer Cabins Project is to provide a more rustic lodging option for guests, with the conveniences of a resort, while still allowing them to experience the natural beauty of the Sierra National Forest area in a minimally-developed setting.

2.2 Project Location

The Tenaya Explorer Cabins Project site is located at 1152 Highway 41 in the unincorporated community of Fish Camp, in Mariposa County (Figure 1). The project is located on private property immediately north of the Tenaya Lodge, between Highway 41 to the west and Big Creek to the east. The existing Fish Camp community is a small residential development of private homes, vacation homes, vacation rentals and resort commercial uses. Fish Camp is primarily developed along Highway 41, and is situated approximately one mile from the south entrance to Yosemite National Park.

2.3 Key Concepts

The project site is forested and bordered by wetlands, meadows, rock formations, Rainbow Lake, Big Creek and Highway 41. The project site plan was designed to accommodate the existing topography of the site and minimize the impacts to existing natural features.

Key concepts considered while laying out the site plan included the following:

1. Minimize encroachment into trees, vegetation, rock formations and wetlands to better enhance the wilderness experience.

2. Maximize the distance between the proposed cabins and Rainbow Lake at the north end of the parcel. 3. Maximize the separation and visual screening between cabins. 4. Position the cabins away from Highway 41 to create a visual and sonic buffer.

5. Position some of the cabins in groups to create a communal space for group gatherings with fire pits.

Tenaya Explorer Cabins Project H. T. Harvey & Associates 4 Biotic Report Addendum February 2016

6. Place the vehicle parking areas in clusters and maintain visual separation between parked vehicles and the cabins whenever possible. Position parking areas in the buffer between the cabins and Highway 41.

7. Position cabins to provide clear views of the creek and meadow areas whenever possible.

8. Incorporate a common clubhouse building to be used for registration, administration, retail and special events.

2.4 Project Components

2.4.1 Parking and Access

The natural topography of the site and the locations of the existing dirt access roads were considered when determining the locations of the proposed access roads and parking areas. Roads and parking areas were routed around existing trees, vegetation and rock formations whenever possible to maximize visual screening and enhance the wilderness experience.

Access roads will be paved with asphalt and designed in compliance with Mariposa County standards for slope, width, turning radius and fire department access.

The proposed site plan provides 1.5 parking stalls for each cabin plus seven additional parking stalls to account for retail, office and associate parking, in accordance with the Fish Camp Town Planning Area (TPA) Specific Plan (County of Mariposa 2009). This will result in 88 parking stalls. One wheelchair accessible stall would be located near the clubhouse and parking would be clustered, as shown on the site plans, to maintain visual separation between parked vehicles and the cabins (Figure 2, Appendix A).

Vehicular access to the site will be from Highway 41 at the same location as the existing entrance to the site. The entrance will be configured to meet Caltrans requirements for acceleration and deceleration distances, and turning lane requirements.

Year-round emergency access would be provided to both Parcel 1 and Parcel 2 through the construction of the onsite access roads, which have been designed in compliance with emergency access requirements. A second access point will be constructed off Highway 41 between the main entrance and Rainbow Lake (Figure 2, Appendix A). This access point will be used for emergency ingress and egress only and a chain or gate will be provided to discourage use of the road outside of the intended purpose.

Pathways will be constructed to connect the cabins to the clubhouse and the clubhouse to the existing Tenaya Lodge (Figure 2, Appendix A). There is an existing trail and roadway system on Tenaya’s property that will be connected to the cabins project via a boardwalk. The pathway system will be used by guests and employees for housekeeping, room service, etc. Use of electric carts may be used by employees for work related activities as well as shuttling guests between the two properties.

Tenaya Explorer Cabins Project H. T. Harvey & Associates 5 Biotic Report Addendum February 2016

2.4.2 Clubhouse Building

The clubhouse will be a multi-use building that will be used for guest registration, administrative offices and recreational activities. Other activities such as continental breakfast, happy hour and gatherings such as weddings and banquets could also be conducted there. The building will also contain laundry facilities, vending machines, a small retail grocery section, and a residential-style kitchen.

The clubhouse will be adjacent to Big Creek on the eastern boundary of the project and will include a large outdoor deck, fire pit, barbeque, hot tub, and swimming pool. The Clubhouse has been designed to accommodate seating for 60 people on the deck and will include indoor facilities capable of holding smaller parties.

Food served at the clubhouse will be prepared at the Tenaya Lodge kitchen or another off-site location, as the clubhouse will not be equipped with commercial kitchen facilities. Outdoor events may use amplified sound and will conclude by 10:30 pm.

2.4.3 Cabins and Utilities

The project will include installation of up to 54 pre-fabricated cabins set on concrete pier footings or concrete slab-on-grade foundations. Each cabin will have an area of approximately 675 square feet and will be connected to sanitary sewer, potable water, electricity, telephone, data, and cable television services (Figure 2, Appendix A). Underground utilities will be installed within the limits of the paved access roads whenever possible and will comply with separation standards set by the State of California and the Mariposa County Health Department.

Wastewater would be collected with a below-grade piping system located under the proposed project roads and gravity fed to a lift station located near the low point of the property. From the lift station, wastewater would be pumped to the new Tenaya Lodge Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) located south of the project site on the southwestern side of the Tenaya Lodge and south of the cottages and Jackson Road. The new WWTP was designed with capacity to treat a daily average maximum of 80,000 gallons per day of wastewater which includes the proposed cabins project.

Water for domestic and fire fighting purposes will be provided by Tenaya’s existing water system. Fire hydrants will be located adjacent to the paved access road per the requirements of Mariposa County Fire Department. Additional water storage will be provided adjacent to the existing water tank at the Tenaya Lodge. The additional water storage will be connected to Tenaya’s existing water and fire system to provide additional fire water storage for the Lodge, as well.

Electrical, telephone, data and cable television service will be extended from existing facilities close to the project and will be installed in a joint trench within the proposed access road whenever possible.

Tenaya Explorer Cabins Project H. T. Harvey & Associates 6 Biotic Report Addendum February 2016

A propane tank or tanks will be utilized to fuel the fire pits shown on the site plan (Figure 2, Appendix A).1

2.4.4 Landscaping

The conceptual site plan was designed to limit disturbance and removal of trees, vegetation, and rock formations. Therefore, there would be limited need for landscaping. Any new landscaping would utilize vegetation native to the region, therefore blending with the existing onsite vegetation. Vegetation would be drought-tolerant and if any irrigation would be needed, it would be supplied by tertiary-treated effluent (recycled water) from the new Tenaya Lodge WWTP.

2.4.5 Snow Storage

The Fish Camp area experiences relatively heavy snowfall during most winter seasons. Therefore, snow removal is necessary to ensure that roads, pedestrian pathways, parking, and related areas are clear to provide pedestrian and vehicular access throughout the Tenaya Cabins site and to Parcel 2. The site plans identify snow storage areas, which would be onsite within the privately-owned property (Figure 2, Appendix A). Snow removal would be the responsibility of Delaware North. Best management practices (BMPs) would be installed at snow storage areas, and all snowmelt would be diverted to the onsite drainage system.2 It is not anticipated that any off-haul of snow would be needed, as there is ample onsite undeveloped land for snow storage.

2.4.6 Residential Parcel Dedication

The proposed project includes a land division of APN 010-350-008 into “Parcel 1” for the Tenaya Explorer Cabins Project, and “Parcel 2” for a single-family residential home. The two parcels are shown on the site plan (Figure 2, Appendix A). Parcel 1 would be rezoned from Single Family Residential 1-acre to Resort Commercial. Parcel 2 would be rezoned from Single Family Residential 1-acre to Single Family Residential ½-acre, per Fish Camp TPA Specific Plan and Mariposa County requirements. The Fish Camp TPA Specific Plan would be amended to reflect the changed land classifications.

No development is currently proposed for Parcel 2, the ½-acre residential parcel. However, it is assumed that a single residence would be built on the site in the future. Therefore, for purposes of this report, roadway access and provision of all necessary utilities to Parcel 2 are considered in the analyses.

1 The propane system design is not yet finalized, and there may be additional propane tanks beyond what is shown on Figure 2 (Isaac Wedam, pers. comm.). 2 The onsite drainage system has not yet been designed, but is anticipated to use the snow storage areas as the locations for potential surface water storage (Isaac Wedam, pers. comm.) (Figure 2). Because plans are not yet available, permanent and temporary impacts resulting from the construction of the onsite drainage system could not fully be assessed.

Tenaya Explorer Cabins Project H. T. Harvey & Associates 7 Biotic Report Addendum February 2016

Section 3. Methods

Before performing field surveys, H. T. Harvey & Associates ecologists reviewed aerial photographs and U.S. Geological Survey topographic maps of the revised site plan and surrounding area. A reconnaissance survey of areas not previously assessed on the original 24.23-acre project site was conducted by H. T. Harvey & Associates ecologist Ethan Barnes on November 24, 2015. Biotic habitats identified using aerial photography were verified on the ground during the reconnaissance survey to produce an updated biotic habitat map. The nine-quadrangle search for special-status plant and wildlife species, designated critical habitat, and sensitive natural communities recorded in the California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB) (CNDDB 2016) and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) list of federally listed species (USFWS 2016) were updated. The criteria used to determine the list of special-status species considered under CEQA that was described in H. T. Harvey & Associates (2014) was also used for this analysis. The lists of special-status plant and wildlife species with potential to occur on the revised project site were amended to reflect the updated CNDDB search, and to incorporate the additional surveys that we conducted subsequent to the preparation of the biotic report (H. T. Harvey & Associates 2015a, 2015b, 2015c).

The revised site plan was compared with previously conducted tree inventories (H. T. Harvey & Associates 2009, 2014). The original Explorer Cabins project site was surveyed for trees greater than or equal to 20 inches diameter at breast height (dbh) to assess potential impacts on heritage trees and wildlife species that use tree cavities or snags for important aspects of their life history (H. T. Harvey & Associates 2014). In 2009, we surveyed the 54-acre Tenaya Lodge property, which includes the utility corridor area, for trees and snags greater than or equal to 30 inches dbh, indicating potentially important wildlife habitat value (H. T. Harvey & Associates 2009).

The revised site plan also was used to estimate temporary and permanent impacts on sensitive natural communities, consisting of potentially jurisdictional wetlands, and California Rare Plant Rank (CRPR) 1, 2, 3, or 4 plant species that were identified during surveys of the original project site (H. T. Harvey & Associates 2015a).

Tenaya Explorer Cabins Project H. T. Harvey & Associates 8 Biotic Report Addendum February 2016

Section 4. Results

4.1 Biotic Habitats

Nine natural community types are present on the revised project site: freshwater pond, perennial stream, intermittent stream, drainage channel, willow shrub riparian/wetland, aspen forested wetland, alder/white fir/incense cedar riparian complex, wet meadow, and lower montane coniferous forest (Figure 3). These are the same nine natural communities that were identified for the original project site. Additionally, developed areas consisting of a portion of Highway 41 and infrastructure around the Tenaya Lodge occur in the revised project site. Culverts along drainage channels were also added to be consistent with the preliminary delineation of wetlands and other waters (H. T. Harvey & Associates 2016). Only a small portion (approximately 0.03 acre) of the freshwater pond (i.e., Rainbow Lake) that is along Highway 41 is included in the revised project site (Figure 3). Descriptions of the natural community types are presented in the biotic report (H. T. Harvey & Associates 2014), and acreages are presented in Figure 3.

4.2 Special-Status Plant and Wildlife Species and Designated Critical Habitat

The updated search of the CNDDB provided three new special-status plant species in the vicinity of the project that have potential to occur on the project: Jepson’s dodder (Cuscuta jepsonii), CRPR 1B.2; oval-leaved viburnum (Viburnum ellipticum), CRPR 2B.3; and Yosemite popcornflower (Plagiobothrys torreyi var. torreyi), CRPR 1B.2 (Figure 4). Species accounts for these additional species with potential to occur on the project are provided below. One plant species was dropped from the list of CRPR plants, Norris’ beard moss (Didymodon norrisii), as the California Native Plant Society (CNPS) considered it for ranking but rejected it because further investigation revealed that it was more common than previously thought. The reanalysis identified 24 special-status plant species with potential to occur on the revised project site (Appendix B). Seasonally timed special-status plant species surveys of the original project site resulted in the detection of oak-leaved nemophila (Nemophila parviflora var. quercifolia) (CRPR 4.3) and Coleman’s rein orchid (Piperia colemanii) (CRPR 4.3) (H. T. Harvey & Associates 2015a).

The updated search of the CNDDB and USFWS lists identified one new animal species in the project vicinity, the Sierra Nevada mountain beaver (Aplodontia rufa californica), a CDFW Species of Special Concern that has potential to occur adjacent to the project site near Big Creek. A species account for the Sierra Nevada mountain beaver is provided below. The updated CNDDB search identified additional occurrences of the Sierra Nevada yellow-legged frog (Rana sierrae) within and outside of the 5-mile radius identified for the site (Figure 4). A focused amphibian survey of Big Creek and other aquatic habitats on the original project site was conducted for the biotic report (H. T. Harvey & Associates 2014); the results of the survey indicated that the Sierra Nevada yellow-legged frog is absent from the project site. No additional aquatic habitats suitable for special-status amphibians or reptiles are present on the revised project site.

Tenaya Explorer Cabins Project H. T. Harvey & Associates 9 Biotic Report Addendum February 2016

Note that the results of the CNDDB search shown on Figure 4 contain several wildlife species that are not considered special-status under CEQA (i.e., Sierra marten [Martes caurina sierrae], Sierra pygmy grasshopper [Tetrix sierrana], Leech’s skyline diving beetle [Hydroporus leechi], Wawona riffle beetle [Atractelmis wawona], long- eared myotis [Myotis evotis], fringed myotis [Myotis thysanodes], western small-footed myotis [Myotis ciliolabrum], Yuma myotis [Myotis yumanensis], silver-haired bat [Lasionycteris noctivagans]); therefore, these species are not included in the table in Appendix B.

Designated critical habitat is not present on or adjacent to the site (Figure 4).

4.2.1 Jepson’s Dodder (Cuscuta jepsonii)

Federal Listing Status: None; State Listing Status: None; CRPR: 1B.2. Jepson’s dodder is a parasitic annual vine in the family Convolvulaceae that blooms from July to September (CNPS 2016). This species occurs on streambanks of coniferous forest and is restricted to its host plant pinemat (Ceanothus diversifolius) and Mahala mat (Ceanothus prostratus). It occurs in scattered locations in Sierra Nevada range and in the northern Coast Ranges (CNPS 2016).

The nearest recorded occurrence of the species is within 5 miles of the project site in Yosemite National Park (CNDDB 2016). Suitable communities are present and the site is within the species’ elevational range. Although the host plants that this species is restricted to was not found during the rare plant survey of the original project site, we detected pinemat during surveys of the Tenaya Lodge property (H. T. Harvey & Associates 2009). There is a possibility that the host plant could occur in the revised project area; therefore, it is possible Jepson’s dodder could be present on the project.

4.2.2 Oval-leaved Viburnum (Viburnum ellipticum)

Federal Listing Status: None; State Listing Status: None; CRPR: 2.B.3. Oval-leaved viburnum is a perennial deciduous shrub in the family Adoxaceae that blooms from May to June (CNPS 2016). This species generally occurs on north-facing slopes in chaparral, cismontane woodland, lower montane coniferous forest communities. It occurs in Washington, Oregon, and the northern California Coast Ranges and Sierra Nevada Mountains (CNPS 2016).

The only recorded observation of the species within 5 miles of the project site is in Yosemite National Park at the Wawona golf course (CNDDB 2016). However, the locational information of this 1930 record has been called into question by an expert botanist employed by Yosemite National Park because the site is above the elevational range of the species and suitable natural communities are not present (Consortium of California Herbaria 2016). Suitable soils and communities are present on the project, but the site is outside of the species’ elevational range. Therefore, it is unlikely to occur on the project.

Tenaya Explorer Cabins Project H. T. Harvey & Associates 10 Biotic Report Addendum February 2016

4.2.3 Yosemite Popcornflower (Plagiobothrys torreyi var. torreyi)

Federal Listing Status: None; State Listing Status: None; CRPR: 1B.2. Yosemite popcornflower is an annual herb in the family Boraginacea that blooms from April to June (CNPS 2016). This species occurs in lower montane coniferous forest, where it is associated with meadows, seeps, forest edges and flats. It is endemic to Mariposa, Tuolumne, and Fresno counties (CNPS 2016).

The nearest recorded observation of the species are within 5 miles of the project site in Yosemite National Park (CNDDB 2016). Suitable communities and soils are present, the site is within the species’ elevational range, and it is known to occur in the vicinity. Therefore, it is possible that it occurs on the project.

4.2.4 Sierra Nevada Mountain Beaver (Aplodontia rufa californica)

Federal Listing Status: None; State Listing Status: None; CDFW: Species of Special Concern. The Sierra Nevada mountain beaver is a Species of Special Concern in the family Aplodonidae. The species is found in montane riparian forests of moderate to low canopy cover, with dense brushy vegetation along streamsides (CDFW 2016). They are associated with willows (Salix sp.), alders (Alnus sp.), and white firs () (Beier 1989). Mountain beavers are restricted to moist habitats with access to surface water or succulent vegetation. They are associated with narrow, shallow streams of steep gradient (Beier 1989). They need deep, friable soils for excavation of burrow systems, which are located in dense thickets near a stream or spring (CDFW 2016). They forage on ferns, conifers, deciduous trees, grasses, and forbs, and they store vegetation near the entrances of their burrows or in underground chambers (CDFW 2016). They create nest chambers 1 to 4.5 feet underground. Breeding is from December through March, and young are born February through June (CDFW 2016).

The Sierra Nevada mountain beaver occurs throughout the Sierra Nevada and Cascades ranges, but historically as well as currently is very sparsely distributed (Beier 1989). They are found at elevations greater than 5,600 feet due their requirement of low temperatures (Beier 1989). There is a 1931 CNDDB record of the species from within 5 miles of the project site in Biledo Meadow, east of in Yosemite National Park (Figure 4). The project site is within the species’ distributional range, and there is suitable habitat present along Big Creek and the surrounding riparian habitat. However, there are no recent records of Sierra Nevada mountain beavers in the vicinity, and the project site is slightly below their elevational range. Therefore, Sierra Nevada mountain beavers are unlikely to occur on the project.

4.3 Tree Inventory

The results of the tree inventories performed previously indicate that large trees are located in or adjacent to the project (Figure 5). Although the revised site plan has been designed to minimize impacts on trees on the site, large trees may be removed or impacted during construction, including two California black oaks (Quercus kelloggii) greater than 20 inches dbh that would be removed. No snags would be affected.

Tenaya Explorer Cabins Project H. T. Harvey & Associates 11 Biotic Report Addendum February 2016

4.4 Sensitive Natural Communities

Under this reanalysis, only the wetland areas of alder/white fir/incense cedar riparian complex shown in Figure 3 are considered to be the freshwater forested/shrub wetland/riparian sensitive natural community shown in Figure 6, because the less mesic areas in this biotic habitat are not considered wetlands under the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) definition. Therefore, only the mesic component of this habitat type falls within this sensitive natural community type. As in the project biotic report, all wet meadow areas shown in Figure 3 are considered the wet meadow/freshwater emergent wetland sensitive natural community (Figure 6).

Tenaya Explorer Cabins Project H. T. Harvey & Associates 12 Biotic Report Addendum February 2016

LEGEND Project Site (28.74 acres) Natural Community Types Freshwater Pond (0.03 acres) Perennial Stream (0.25 acres) Intermittent Stream (0.02 acres) Fish Camp Drainage Channel (0.04 acres) Willow Shrub Riparian/Wetland (0.03 acres) Aspen Forested Wetland (0.62 acres) Alder/White Fir/Incense Cedar Riparian Complex (0.52 acres)

SR 41 Wet Meadow (2.22 acres) Lower Montane Coniferous Forest (21.68 acres) Anthropogenic Areas Culvert (0.02 acres)

Developed (3.30 acres)

Tenaya Lodge

200 100 0 200

Feet Imagery Sourse: ESRI NAIP 2014 N:\Projects3500\3540-01\05\Reports\BioticReport Addendum\Fig 3 Biotic Habitats.mxd

Figure 3: Biotic Habitats on the Project Site Tenaya Lodge Explorer Cabins Biotic Report Addendum (3540-05) February 2016 short-leaved hulsea 21 LEGEND western small-footed myotis 34 Project Site western mastiff bat 118 Crotch bumble bee 31 spotted bat 55 Yuma myotis 154 Townsend's big-eared bat 203 Sierra Nevada yellow-legged frog Wawona riffle beetle 1 5-Mile Radius Yosemite onion pallid bat 326 1 65 slender-stalked monkeyflower 12 Yosemite woolly sunflower northern clustered sedge Yuma myotis 83 11 2 Yosemite popcornflower 20 California Spotted Owl Congdon's lewisia fringed myotis 55 Congdon's lewisia Bolander's woodreed 4 Oberservation 4 hoary bat 140 Yosemite woolly sunflower oval-leaved viburnum 31 short-leaved hulsea 10 CNDDB Records short-leaved hulsea western red bat 26 23 Jepson's dodder 3 western mastiff bat 119 Wildlife silver-haired bat 128 American badger 293 willow flycatcher 43 Approximate Location western small-footed myotis 37 long-earedlong-eared myotismyotis 4040 short-leaved hulsea General Area Bolander's woodreed22 3

Big Tree Forest Sierra Nevada red fox subalpine fireweed Plants 31 fisher - West Coast DPS 108 92 Specific Location 93 subalpine fireweed Leech'sSierra Nevadaskyline divingmountain beetle beaver 93 10 86 Approximate Location Sierra Nevada yellow-legged frog 573 Sierra Nevada yellow-legged frog 571 General Area Nuttall's ribbon-leaved pondweed 6 California wolverine Sensitive Natural Communities 164

Approximate Location fisher - West Coast DPS 88 Yosemite toad 11 General Area

Sourse: The California Natural Diversity Database is provided short-leaved hulsea by California Department of Fish and Wildlife's Biogeographic 17 Data Branch, last update on January 05,2016. western pond turtle westernshort-leaved waterfan hulsea lichen 23 37 63 Bolander's 1 0.5 0 1 18 Bolander's clover Bolander's clover 17 Miles 19

Sierra martenSierra marten 20 21 Sierra pygmy grasshopper 1 Rawson's flaming trumpet Sierra Nevada 26 yellow-legged frog 568 willow flycatcher Sierra Nevada red fox Yosemite toad 33 228 Big Tree Forest 12 63 63 Sierra Nevada yellow-legged frog 572 Leech's skyline diving beetle foothill yellow-legged frog 9 22 Leech's skyline diving beetle short-leaved hulsea 15 Bolander's clover 16 11 Bolander's clover 16 grey-leaved violet 56 subalpine fireweed 90 short-leaved hulsea 67 Shuteye Peak fawn lily 4 Small's southern clarkia 18 Yosemite toad 34 Rawson's flaming trumpet Bolander's bruchia 23 4 Shuteye Peak fawn lily 3 Sierra Nevada Rawson's flaming trumpet short-leaved hulseab 16 4 yellow-legged frog 570 Sources: Esri, HERE, DeLorme, USGS, Intermap, increment P Corp., NRCAN, Esri Japan, METI, Esri China (Hong Kong), Esri (Thailand), MapmyIndia, © OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS User Community N:\Projects3500\3540-01\05\Reports\BioticReport Addendum\Fig 4 CNDDBMap.mxd Figure 4: California Natural Diversity Database Search Results Tenaya Lodge Explorer Cabins Biotic Report Addendum (3540-05) February 2016 LEGEND Project Site (28.74 acres) New Construction New Utility Lines Communications Bank Electrical Service Electrical and Communication Joint Trench Fish Camp 1 Fire Line 4 y a Propane Line w h ig Recycled Water Line H (! (! (!(!(!(!(! Sewer Line (! (! Water Line Rainbow (! (!(! (! (! (! (!(! (! Lake (! (! (! (!(! (! (! (!(! 2014 Tree Inventory (≥ 20 inches) (! (! (! (! (!(!(! (!(! (! (! (! (!(! (! White Fir (! (! (!(!(! (! (! (! (! (! (! (!(! (! White Alder (! (! (! (! (! (! (! (!(! (! (! Incense Cedar (! (!(! (! (! (! (! (! (!(! (! Sugar Pine (!(! (!(! (!(! (! (! (! (! (! (! (! (!(! (! (!(! (! (! (! (!(! (! (! (! (! (! Ponderosa Pine (! (! (! (! (! (! (! California Black Oak (! (!(! (! (! (! (! (! (! (! (!(! (! (! (!(!(! (! Snag Road Shoulder (! (! (! (!(!(! (! (! (!(! Improvem (! (! (! ents (! (! (!! (!(! (! 2009 Tree Inventory (≥ 30 inches) (!((! (! (!(! (! (!(! (! Proposed (! (!(! (! (! (! (! (! (! (! (! (! Lift )" White fir (! (! (! (! (!(! (! (! (! (! (! (!(! Station (! (! (! (! )" (! (! (! Incense cedar (! (!(! (! (!(! (! (! (! (!(! (! (! (! (!(! (!!(!(! )" Sugar pine (! (! (! (! ( (!(! (! (! (! (! (! (! (! (! (! (! (! (!(! (!(! )" Ponderosa pine (!(! (! (! (! (! (! (!(! (! (! (!(! (! (! (! (! (! (! (! (!(!(! (! (!(! (! (! (!(!(!(!(!(! (!(! (!(! (! (! (! (! ! (! (! (! (!(! (! (! (! (!(! (! ( (! (! (! (! (! (! (! (! (! (! (! (! (! (!(! (! (!(! (! (! (! (!(!(! (! (! (! (! (!(! (! (! (! (! (!(! (! !(!(! (!(!(! (! (! (! (!! (! ( (! (! (! (!(!(! ( (! (!(! (! (! (! (! (!(! (! (!(! (! (! (!(!(! (!(! (! (! (! (! (! (! (! (! (! (! (! (! (! (! (! (! (! (! (!(! (!(!(! (!(!(! (! (! (! (!(! (! (! Proposed (! (! (! (! (! (! (! (! (! (! (! (! Propane (! (! (! (!(!(! (! (! (! (! (! (! (!(! (! Tank (!(! (!(! (! (! (! (! (! (! (!(!(! (! (!(! (! (! (! (!(!(!(! (! (! (!(!(! (! (! (! (! ! (! ( (! (!(!(!(!(! (! Parcel 2 (!! (! (! (! (!(!(!(! ((!(! (! (! (!(! (!(! (! (! (! (! (!(! (!(! (! (! (! (!(!(! (! (! (!(!(! (! !( (! (! (!(! (!(! ( ! (! (! (! ( (! (!(! (! ! (! (! (! (! (! )" (! ( (! (! (! )" )")" )" (! (! (!(! (! )" )" )" )" Proposed (! )" )")" )" )" )" )" )")" )" Boardwalk )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" Propos )" )" )" )" ed )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )")" )" Lift Station )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" " )")" )" )" )")" )" )" ) )" )" )" )")" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )")" )" )" )")" )" )")" )" " )" )" )" )" )" )" ) )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )")" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" " )" )" )" ) )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" Existing )" )" Wate )" )" )" )" )" )" r )" )" )" Ta )" )" nk )" )" )" )" )" )" " )" )" ) )" )" )" )" )" )" )")" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" Proposed Water Tank )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )")" Tenaya Lodg )")")" )")" e )" )" )" )")" )" )" )" )" )" )")" )")" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )")" " ) Existing Recycled )" Water Distribution )" )" )" )" )" Building and Tank )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" " )")" )" )" )" ) )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" " )" )" )" ) )" )" )" )" )" )" )")" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )" )")" )")" )" )")" )" )" )" )" )" )"

200 100 0 200

± Feet Imagery Sourse: ESRI NAIP 2014 N:\Projects3500\3540-01\05\Reports\Biotic ReportAddendum\Fig 5 Tree Inventory.mxd Figure 5: Tree Inventory Tenaya Lodge Explorer Cabins Biotic Report Addendum (3540-05) February 2016 LEGEND Project Site (28.74 acres)

Permanent Impact

Temporary Impact

Potentially Jurisdictional Wet Meadow/Freshwater Emergent Wetland (0.01 acres Permanent Impacts; 0.02 acres Temporary Fish Camp Impacts) Highway 41 Freshwater Forested/Shrub Wetland/Riparian Potentially Jurisdictional Other Waters Freshwater Pond Rainbow Lake Perennial Stream

Intermittent Stream

Drainage Channel

Culvert

Non-Jurisdictional Areas Upland

Road Shoulder Improvements

Proposed Lift Station

Proposed Propane Tank

Proposed Boardwalk

Proposed Lift Station

Proposed Water Tank

Tenaya Lodge

200 100 0 200

Feet Imagery Sourse: ESRI NAIP 2014 N:\Projects3500\3540-01\05\Reports\Biotic ReportAddendum\Fig 6 Potential Impacts.mxd

Figure 6: Potential Impacts to Sensitive Natural Communities Tenaya Lodge Explorer Cabins Biotic Report Addendum (3540-05) February 2016

Section 5. Direct and Indirect Effects

There would be direct and indirect effects from the installation of the utility corridor, increased number of Explorer Cabins, Highway 41 improvements, boardwalk, pedestrian pathways, and snow storage areas/drainage system ponds that are in addition to the effects described in the biotic report (H. T. Harvey & Associates 2014). Temporary impacts would result from installing underground water, sewer, and communication lines in the utility corridor (Figure 6). A 36-inch-wide area centered on the location of the lines, as well as equipment access and staging areas, would be disturbed. Where the water and sewer lines follow the same route, regulations stipulate that the lines be separated by 10 feet; in these areas, the width of temporary disturbance would be an estimated 21 feet. Trenching for the utility corridor across the wet meadow is primarily planned within an existing unpaved road, but because of the 10-foot width needed to separate the lines, ground disturbance would extend beyond the boundaries of the road (Figure 6). The disturbance caused by utility trenching would occur only during and immediately following construction, and the temporary impact areas would revegetate naturally after the lines are installed. Some small trees might be affected or removed along the utility corridor, but no large trees would be removed. Temporary impacts also are expected to occur during site grading and access during construction of the roads, pedestrian pathways, fire pits, and pads for the cabins. The area of disturbance is estimated to extend 10 feet from these structures. All utility lines on the Explorer Cabins portion of the project site would be located within the boundaries of project roads.

Permanent aboveground impacts from development of the utility corridor would include one new water tank and a lift stations (Figure 6). In addition, a boardwalk (185 feet long by 12 feet wide) for pedestrian traffic between the cabins and the existing lodge would be constructed on the unpaved road crossing the wet meadow (Figure 6). Improvements to Highway 41 include development of a turn lane, which would increase the paved surface from two to three lanes at the entrance of the Explorer Cabins access road. The road shoulders on both sides of Highway 41 in this area also would be improved; this impact is considered permanent because this improvement is expected to require long-term maintenance and possible conversion of forested habitat (Figure 6). The snow storage areas are expected to be used also for the onsite drainage system, which has not yet been fully designed (Isaac Wedam, pers. comm.). These basins are considered under permanent impacts because they would require grading to construct, which would disturb or remove native vegetation, and would be maintained/disturbed throughout the life of the project (Figure 6). Under the revised site plan, the number of cabins has been increased from 34 to 54, which has increased the acreage of permanent and temporary impacts compared with the acreage that would have been affected under the previous plan (H. T. Harvey & Associates 2014). Permanent impacts under the revised site plan are estimated to be 4.26 acres.

All general biological mitigation measures (Mitigation Measures [MMs] BIO-7a through BIO-7f) detailed in the biotic report (H. T. Harvey & Associates 2014) (Appendix C) would apply to activities encompassed under the revised site plan. To ensure that mitigation has been identified for all significant impacts that would occur under the revised site plan, each impact statement and mitigation measure presented in the biotic report was reassessed.

Tenaya Explorer Cabins Project H. T. Harvey & Associates 17 Biotic Report Addendum February 2016

5.1 Criterion A: Adverse Effects on Candidate, Sensitive, or Special- Status Species

The biotic report addressed impacts on special-status species, including impacts on rare plants and sensitive wildlife during construction and loss of habitat (H. T. Harvey & Associates 2014). Three additional special- status plant species and one additional special-status animal species have potential to occur on the revised project site, as a result of additional occurrence information obtained during the updated records search. On August 6, 2015, the California Fish and Game Commission voted to list the southern Sierra Nevada evolutionarily significant unit of the fisher (Pekania penanti) as threatened under the California Endangered Species Act (CESA). Take of a species state listed as threatened or endangered is considered significant under CEQA. No other species state listed as endangered or threatened is expected to be present on the site; therefore, implementing the project would have no effect on all other species state listed as endangered or threatened.

5.1.1 Special-Status Plants

Our reanalysis identified 24 special-status plant species with a CRPR of 1, 2, 3, or 4 with potential to occur on the revised project site (Appendix B). Oak-leaved nemophila and Coleman’s rein orchid were identified during the focused surveys of the original project site, and Coleman’s rein orchid occurs within project impact areas (Figure 7). These two species are found in the lower montane coniferous forest community (H. T. Harvey & Associates 2015a), which is the predominant natural community in the areas added under the revised site plan (Figure 2). Special-status plant species could be present on the parts of the revised project site not surveyed previously, and project activities such as trenching, constructing improvements to Highway 41, and placing structures, construction of the snow storage basins, as well as trampling/compacting soil caused by construction activities, could directly affect these plants. Preconstruction surveys for special-status plant species should be conducted throughout the revised project site, as detailed in MM BIO-1a. Although the temporary disturbance areas would be allowed to revegetate, ground disturbance generally favors nonnative plant species, which may outcompete native species in the long term. With the implementation of the general biological mitigation measures (Appendix C, MM BIO-7a through MM BIO-7f) and mitigation measures to protect special-status plant species (Appendix C, MM BIO-1a and MM-BIO-1b), impacts on special-status plants are expected to remain less than significant.

5.1.2 Special-Status Wildlife

The types of potential impacts on sensitive wildlife species that could occur on the revised project site are similar to those addressed in the biotic report (H. T. Harvey & Associates 2014). Under the revised site plan, there would be a slight increase in loss of or temporary disturbance habitat for American badgers (Taxidea taxus), Sierra Nevada mountain beavers, fishers, special-status bat species, and protected bird species. Up to 25.39 acres of potential fisher foraging, denning, and resting habitat might be permanently affected under the revised site plan, whereas up to 23.19 acres of this habitat could have been permanently affected under the original site plan (H.T. Harvey & Associates 2014). There would be additional temporary disturbance caused by the use of construction equipment during the widening of Highway 41 and installation of the utility corridor.

Tenaya Explorer Cabins Project H. T. Harvey & Associates 18 Biotic Report Addendum February 2016

Large trees and snags are a critical habitat element for many special-status species, including the fisher, California spotted owl (Strix occidentalis occidentalis), and northern goshawk (Accipiter gentilis). Some small trees in the utility corridor might be removed, and trenching within or near the dripline of trees may compact soil and negatively affect the root systems, which could increase susceptibility to disease and reduce vigor and health, eventually leading to tree mortality. In addition, trees may be removed or affected as a result of constructing the Highway 41 improvements and the additional 20 cabins. Before construction begins, surveys for trees and snags greater than or equal to 20 inches dbh shall be conducted in all impact areas that were not surveyed during the tree inventory conducted for the biotic report (H. T. Harvey & Associates 2014). Mitigation measure MM BIO-2a has been revised to include surveys of these areas (additional text shown with underline):

Mitigation Measure BIO-2a: Conduct tree survey and avoid mature California black oak (Quercus kelloggii) trees. Before construction begins, a survey for trees and snags greater than or equal to 20 inches dbh shall be conducted in all impact areas that were not surveyed during the tree inventory conducted for the biotic report (H. T. Harvey & Associates 2014). The trees and snags shall be evaluated to determine the presence of suitable rest site locations and potential den sites for the fisher based on guidance in Green et al. (2013), and evaluated for potential roost sites for tree cavity-roosting special-status bat species. If possible, the site plan shall be redesigned to relocate the clubhouse away from heritage California black oak trees, including a 25-foot buffer between the driplines of the trees and any landscaped and irrigated areas. If these trees cannot be avoided, then MM BIO-2b shall be implemented.

As described in the biotic report (H. T. Harvey & Associates 2014), the fisher has the potential to be present on the project site. Data gathered from radio-collared fishers monitored as part of the Sierra Nevada Adaptive Management Project (SNAMP) Sugar Pine Fisher Study show fisher presence in the area south of Tenaya Lodge, north of the town of Fish Camp, and to Goat Meadow northeast of the project site (Smith pers. comm. 2014). Further, the draft Southern Sierra Nevada Fisher Conservation Strategy identifies the vicinity of Fish Camp, California, as being on the edge of fisher Core Area 5 (Spencer et al. 2015).

Several mature trees grow along the utility corridor in new areas encompassed by the revised site plan (Figure 5) (H. T. Harvey & Associates 2009). These trees have not been assessed to determine whether they have structures suitable for use by fishers as resting or denning sites. During focused surveys of the original project site for fisher-suitable structures, five trees were identified that had cavities suitable for use by the fisher, including one incense cedar (Calocedrus decurrens) tree (H. T. Harvey & Associates 2014).3 Given the low number of trees with suitable structures for denning on the original project site and the proximity to human development, it is unlikely that fishers den on the site; however, because they have a large home range, fishers may forage on the site, and use resting structures identified during the 2014 survey or in the new areas encompassed by the revised site plan.

3 In the SNAMP Sugar Pine Fisher Study area, incense cedars were the most common tree species used for denning sites, with California black oaks being the next most commonly used tree species (Purcell pers. comm. 2014).

Tenaya Explorer Cabins Project H. T. Harvey & Associates 19 Biotic Report Addendum February 2016

If project disturbance causes abandonment of a den or tree removal leads to injury or mortality of adults or kits, either of these activities would be considered as take under CESA. Although it is unlikely that fishers den on the site, and even more unlikely that a maternity den (den with female and kits) occurs on the site, MM BIO- 4b has been revised to ensure that no impacts occur on maternity dens (revisions shown with underline and strikeout):

Mitigation Measure BIO-4b: Conduct construction near occupied fisher dens outside the kit rearing season. If construction activities must be conducted within the established buffer areas from occupied fisher dens, work in these areas must take place between 1 30 June and 1 February, which is outside of the kit-rearing season. During this period and prior to work occurring within the established buffer, a qualified biologist shall monitor occupied den sites daily for a period of at least 7 days to confirm that the den has been vacated. Infrared trail cameras shall also be deployed during this period as outlined in Mitigation Measure BIO- 4a above, to aid in confirming vacancy.

For nonmaternity dens, if no fishers are seen or detected on the cameras, the tree can be removed or work can take place within the buffer area on the seventh monitoring day, with oversight by the qualified biologist. If fishers are observed to be occupying the den at any time during the 7-day monitoring period, the biologist will monitor the den weekly until the individual has vacated the den. Thereafter, the tree may be removed or work conducted within the buffer area with oversight by the qualified biologist.

For maternity dens, if no fishers are seen or detected on the cameras, work can take place in the buffer area on the seventh monitoring day, with oversight by a qualified biologist. If fishers are observed occupying the den at any time during the 7-day monitoring period, the biologist will monitor the den weekly until the individual has vacated the den. Trees with dens identified as maternity dens shall not be removed and will be preserved in place.

Other potential direct effects on fishers during construction include mortality from vehicle or construction equipment collisions with fishers. In addition, if anticoagulant rodenticides or insecticides are used during site operation, fishers may be poisoned directly through exposure to bait or secondarily through consumption of small mammals or insects that have been exposed to these compounds. MM BIO-4c limits the use of anticoagulant rodenticides and insecticides to prevent exposing fisher to toxic chemical compounds. Further, the general biological measures require providing worker education (MM BIO-7a); implementing construction standard operating procedures, such as inspecting stacked or stored materials for wildlife, preventing entrapment of wildlife, and restricting vehicles to established roads and restricting the speed limit (MM BIO- 7b); performing biological construction monitoring (MM BIO-7c); restoring temporarily affected habitats (MM BIO-7d); and preparing a hazardous materials spill plan (MM BIO-7f). Implementing all these measures (MM BIO-4a through MM BIO-4c, MM BIO-7a through MM BIO 7d, and MM BIO-7f) will avoid take and reduce impacts to less than significant levels. These measures are described fully in Appendix C.

Tenaya Explorer Cabins Project H. T. Harvey & Associates 20 Biotic Report Addendum February 2016

California spotted owl and northern goshawk surveys were conducted on the original project site and in a 0.25-mile-wide area around the site, which included the new areas on the revised project site (H. T. Harvey & Associates 2015c). These species were not detected during the protocol-level surveys, although the project site has potential nesting and foraging habitat for both species. H. T. Harvey & Associates (2015c) concluded that human disturbances surrounding the project site reduce the site’s suitability for these species. Therefore, no additional surveys for raptors are required as a result of the change in project area.

The increase (4.51 acres) in the size of the project site would have no effect on the previous analysis of project impacts on wildlife habitat as long as the general biological mitigation measures (MM BIO-7a through MM BIO-7f) and wildlife-specific mitigation measures (MM BIO-3a through MM BIO-6c, with the revised measures for fisher [MM BIO-4a and MM BIO-4b]) are implemented. Impacts on special-status wildlife species resulting from injury and mortality are also expected to remain less than significant with the implementation of these mitigation measures (H. T. Harvey & Associates 2014) (Appendix C).

Tenaya Explorer Cabins Project H. T. Harvey & Associates 21 Biotic Report Addendum February 2016

LEGEND Project Site (28.74 acres)

Permanent Impact

Temporary Impact

2015 Survey Area

Special-status Plant Occurrences Coleman's Rein Orchid Fish Camp Oak-leaved Nemophila Highway 41

Rainbow Lake

Road Shoulder Improvements

Proposed Lift Station

Proposed Propane Tank

Proposed Boardwalk

Proposed Lift Station

Propose Water Tank

Tenaya Lodge

200 100 0 200

Feet Imagery Sourse: ESRI NAIP 2014 N:\Projects3500\3540-01\05\Reports\Biotic ReportAddendum\Fig 7 Special-status Plant OccurrenceMap.mxd

Figure 7: Special-status Plant Occurrence Map Tenaya Lodge Explorer Cabins Biotic Report Addendum (3540-05) February 2016

5.2 Criterion B: Adverse Effects on Sensitive Natural Communities

The biotic report addressed the loss of sensitive natural communities. The wet meadow habitat type (Figure 3) is considered a wet meadow/freshwater emergent wetland (Figure 6), which is a sensitive natural community. The freshwater forested/shrub wetland/riparian sensitive natural community consists of the mesic portions of the alder/white fir/incense cedar riparian complex that meet the USACE definition of wetlands, as well as aspen forested wetland and willow shrub riparian/wetland (Figure 6). These two sensitive natural communities are likely to be considered jurisdictional wetlands by USACE.

Project impacts on sensitive natural communities and potentially jurisdictional other waters are shown in Figure 6. Implementing the project might cause 0.02 acre of temporary impacts and less than 0.01 acre of permanent impacts on the wet meadow/freshwater emergent wetland community. These impacts are attributable to the proposed construction of and grading around the clubhouse and surrounding patios and facilities, as well as construction of the utility corridor across the wet meadow (Figure 6). The boardwalk is planned for the existing unpaved road, which occupies upland habitat, and only temporary impacts on the wet meadow are anticipated from construction of the boardwalk and utility corridor crossing. Under the revised site plan, no impacts on the freshwater forested/shrub wetland/riparian community would occur because the less mesic portions that do not meet wetland criteria do not fall under this definition. The redesigned cabin placement in the revised site plan also has avoided temporary impacts on the wet meadow/freshwater emergent wetland community associated with grading around the cabins. As a result, impacts would remain less than significant with the implementation of the mitigation measures proposed in the biotic report (H. T. Harvey & Associates 2014) (Appendix C).

5.3 Criterion C: Adverse Effects on Federally Protected Wetlands, as Defined by Section 404 of the Clean Water Act

The preliminary delineation of wetlands and other waters identified 38 features (totaling 9.05 acres) in the wetland delineation study area that meet the definition of potentially jurisdictional wetlands or other waters (H. T. Harvey & Associates 2016). Implementing the project might cause 0.02 acre of temporary impacts and less than 0.01 acre of permanent impacts on potentially jurisdictional wetlands (Figure 6). If any impacts occur on jurisdictional areas, whether permanent (placement of permanent fill or structures) or temporary (such as site grading that would be allowed to revegetate), the project proponent shall be required to apply for a Section 404 Individual Permit from USACE and a Section 401 Water Quality Certification from the Regional Water Quality Control Board. A Section 1602 Lake or Streambed Alteration Agreement from CDFW is also likely to be required for impacts along Big Creek. Impacts on federally protected wetlands would remain less than significant with implementation of the general biological mitigation measures and the mitigation measures for impacts on sensitive natural communities described for Criterion B (MM BIO-8a and MM BIO-8b) (Appendix C).

Tenaya Explorer Cabins Project H. T. Harvey & Associates 23 Biotic Report Addendum February 2016

5.4 Criterion D: Adverse Effects on the Movement of Any Native Resident or Migratory Fish or Wildlife Species or with Established Native or Migratory Wildlife Corridors, or the Use of Native Wildlife Nursery Sites

As described in the biotic report (H. T. Harvey & Associates 2014), implementing the project is not expected to alter the structure of on-site habitats in a manner that would prohibit wildlife movement through the site or preclude the use of native wildlife nursery sites with implementation of the mitigation measures that avoid impacts to nesting or denning special-status wildlife. The addition of approximately 4.51 acres to the project site would not alter the conclusion.

5.5 Criterion E: Conflict with Any Local Policies or Ordinances Protecting Biological Resources, Such as a Tree Preservation Policy or Ordinance

Flaming trumpet (Collomia rawsoniana), Yosemite woolly sunflower (Eriophyllum nubigenum), Madera leptosiphon (Leptosiphon serrulatus), and orange lupine (Lupinus citrinus var. citrinus) are locally rare plants known to occur in the project vicinity. The Fish Camp Town Planning Area Specific Plan, which applies to the project site, requires that focused surveys for these species be conducted and that any populations of rare and endangered plants be protected through project avoidance or easements (County of Mariposa 2009). Because portions of the revised project site were not included in the focused rare plant survey previously conducted for the project (H. T. Harvey & Associates 2015a) (Figure 7), focused surveys for these and other special-status plant species and avoidance and mitigation measures for any such populations are required under MM BIO-1a and MM BIO- 1b. Impacts on locally rare plants due to direct mortality and habitat loss are expected to remain less than significant with the implementation of the general biological measures and mitigation measures proposed in the biotic report (H. T. Harvey & Associates 2014).

5.6 Criterion F: Conflict with an Adopted Habitat Conservation Plan, Natural Community Conservation Plan, or Other Approved Local, Regional, or State Habitat Conservation Plan

The revised project site is not subject to an adopted habitat conservation plan (HCP), natural community conservation plan, or other approved local, regional, or state HCP; therefore, no conflict would occur.

Tenaya Explorer Cabins Project H. T. Harvey & Associates 24 Biotic Report Addendum February 2016

Section 6. Cumulative Impacts

Our analysis of cumulative impacts was revised in accordance with the changes and refinements of the revised site plan, and expanded the list of current and proposed projects in the vicinity of the project site. Federal projects proposed within the project vicinity (within 10 miles), and a short description of these projects, include:

• Sierra Nevada Forest Plan Amendment—Land management in Madera and Mariposa counties to promote old forest ecosystems, biodiversity and sensitive species habitat, while allowing for recreation, commerce, and providing commodities; removing fuels, including snags and trees less than 30 inches dbh; and controlled burning.

• Concessionaire Permit Extension for 86 Campground and Picnic Sites Sierra National Forest-wide— Permit renewal for existing sites that does not entail further development or impact.

• Prescribed Burns at Doublegate/Lone Sequoia/Timberloft—Vegetation and fuels management to maintain a “maintenance burn” level.

• Kamook Motorized Recreation Staging Area, Madera County, 8 miles north of Oakhurst—Develop site for parking and off-loading, and replace toilet.

• Miami Mountain Motorcycle Recreation Area Fuels Reduction, Madera and Mariposa counties, West of Sugar Pine.

Grove Interpretive Site Area New Vault Toilet, approximately 5 miles southeast from Fish Camp.

• Mariposa Grove South Entrance Parking Hub, approximately 5 miles southeast from Fish Camp— Expanding existing parking lot from 20 to approximately 290 spaces.

Private Projects within the vicinity of the project include:

• Yosemite Mountain Ranch Timber Harvest Plan, 1 mile west of Westfall Fire Station—800 acres. • Silver Tip Resort Village Project, Fish Camp—Construction of a 137-guest rooms hotel, 30 cabins, and associated infrastructure and amenities.

Projects 10 miles or more from the project that could have effects on special-status species with potential to occur on the project site include:

• Ponderosa Telephone Beasore Meadows Fiber Optic—Installation of 7827 feet underground fiber optic cable, solar panels, monopole, pre-fab building. • Ponderosa Telephone Fiber Optic Cable—Installation of 20,704 feet of fiber optic cable from Marina View to Central Camp Bass Lake.

Tenaya Explorer Cabins Project H. T. Harvey & Associates 25 Biotic Report Addendum February 2016

• Sierra Telephone Bass Lake Fiber Optic—Installation of 10,100 feet of buried conduits and fiber optic cable. • Try Me Placer Mining—Gold mining along 1500 feet of a tributary to West Fork Chiquito Creek, setting up a camp and storage area, diversion of water around the mining operation, constructing a sediment pond and small earthen dam to pond water and reclamation. • West Chiquito Ecological Restoration—19,810 acres between Whisky Falls and Mammoth Pools, involving road decommissioning, developed site management, fuel treatments, forest vegetation improvements, dispersed recreation management, noxious weed treatments, road maintenance/improvements/construction, rangeland management.

The addition of approximately 4.51 acres to the project site would not alter the conclusion in the biotic report (H. T. Harvey & Associates 2014) that the project’s cumulative impacts would be less than significant. The expanded search of projects in the vicinity revealed some areas in which natural habitats will be converted to uses incompatible with wildlife habitat. However, the scale of these projects in relation to the surrounding National Forest or National Park lands would likely have little to no effect on these species. The goal of several of the reviewed projects include habitat enhancements that likely would benefit sensitive biological resources, and may offset habitat losses. Implementation of project avoidance, minimization, and mitigation measures would ensure that the project had no direct biological effects, including the loss of habitat, that are individually limited but cumulatively significant.

Tenaya Explorer Cabins Project H. T. Harvey & Associates 26 Biotic Report Addendum February 2016

Section 7. References

Ascent Environmental. 2015. Comments on the Tenaya Cabins Project Biotic Report, Prepared by H. T. Harvey & Associates. July 20. Memo prepared for Steve Engfer, Mariposa County Planning Department, Mariposa, California.

Beier, P. 1989. Use of habitat by mountain beaver in the Sierra Nevada. Journal of Wildlife Management 53(3):649-654.

[CDFW] California Department of Fish and Wildlife. 2016. California Wildlife Habitat Relationships Life History Accounts and Range Maps. [online]: http://www.dfg.ca.gov/biogeodata/cwhr/cawildlife.aspx. Accessed February 2016.

[CNDDB] California Natural Diversity Database. 2016. Results of electronic records search. California Department of Fish and Wildlife. . January 2016.

[CNPS] California Native Plant Society. 2016. Rare and Endangered Plants Inventory (8th Edition). Sacramento, California. [online]: http://www.rareplants.cnps.org/. Accessed February 2016.

Consortium of California Herbaria. 2016. Accession Detail Results. . Accessed February 2016.

County of Mariposa. 2009. Fish Camp Town Planning Area Specific Plan. Adopted June 7, 1983, and amended February 3, 2009. Mariposa County Planning Department, Mariposa, California.

H. T. Harvey & Associates. 2009. Tenaya Lodge Property Biological Opportunities and Constraints Analysis. November. Fresno, California. Prepared for Design, Community & Environment, Berkeley, California.

H. T. Harvey & Associates. 2014. Tenaya Lodge Explorer Cabins Biotic Report. December. Fresno, California. Prepared for Blair, Church & Flynn Consulting Engineers, Clovis, California.

H. T. Harvey & Associates. 2015a. Tenaya Lodge Explorer Cabins Special-Status Plant Surveys. August. Fresno, California. Prepared for Blair, Church & Flynn Consulting Engineers, Clovis, California.

H. T. Harvey & Associates. 2015b. Tenaya Lodge Explorer Cabins Special-Status Bat Surveys. July. Fresno, California. Prepared for Blair, Church & Flynn Consulting Engineers, Clovis, California.

Tenaya Explorer Cabins Project H. T. Harvey & Associates 27 Biotic Report Addendum February 2016

H. T. Harvey & Associates. 2015c. California Spotted Owl and Northern Goshawk Surveys for Tenaya Lodge Explorer Cabins. August. Fresno, California. Prepared for Blair, Church & Flynn Consulting Engineers, Clovis, California.

H. T. Harvey & Associates. 2016. Tenaya Lodge Explorer Cabins Preliminary Delineation of Wetlands and Other Waters, Fish Camp, Mariposa County, California. February. Fresno, California. Prepared for Blair, Church & Flynn Consulting Engineers, Clovis, California.

Purcell, Kathryn. Research Wildlife Biologist, U.S. Forest Service, Pacific Southwest Research Station. November 13, 2014—email communication with Doug Drynan of H. T. Harvey & Associates.

Smith, Tessa. Biological Science Technician and field crew supervisor, Sugar Pine Fisher Study. U.S. Forest Service. November 4, 2014—personal communication with Doug Drynan of H. T. Harvey & Associates.

Spencer, W. D., S. C. Sawyer, H. L. Romsos, W. J. Zielinski, C. M. Thompson, and S. A. Britting. 2015. Southern Sierra Nevada Fisher Conservation Strategy. Unpublished report. Conservation Biology Institute. Prepared for Fisher Interagency Leadership Team.

[USFWS] U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2016. Species List Generators. Sacramento Fish and Wildlife Office. . Accessed January 2016.

Wedam, Isaac. 2016. Blair, Church & Flynn. Personal communication regarding project description and site plan, February 16.

Tenaya Explorer Cabins Project H. T. Harvey & Associates 28 Biotic Report Addendum February 2016

Appendix A. Project Site Plans

Tenaya Explorer Cabins Project H. T. Harvey & Associates A-1 Biotic Report Addendum February 2016

PROXIMITY MAP

JACKSON ROAD

THE COTTAGES

TENAYA LODGE

AT

TENAYA LODGE

HIGHWAY 41

SUMMIT ROAD BIG CREEK BIG

HIGHWAY 41

BIG

RAINBOW

LAKE CREEK OVERALL SITE PLAN PROJECT BOUNDARY 1

Appendix B. Special-status Plant and Animal Species with Potential to Occur

Table 1. Potential for Special-status Plants to Occur on the Project Site

Communities, Soils, Elevational Range, Name Status1 and Blooming Period Potential for Occurrence on Project Site2 Plants Abrams’ onion 1B.2 Lower montane coniferous forest, upper Absent. Although suitable communities Allium abramsii montane coniferous forest and soils exist, and the site is within the Often on granitic sand substrates elevational range of the species, the Project site appears to be outside of the 2093–10,006 ft species’ local distribution. The only record May–Jul in the vicinity is a historic collection near Bass Lake, but locality has not been verified. All documented locations are between Bass Lake and Shaver Lake. Bacigalupi’s yampah 4.2 Chaparral, lower montane coniferous forest Possible. Suitable communities and soils B

- are present. The Project site is outside of 1 Perideridia bacigalupii Sometimes on serpentine the species’ described elevational range. 1476-3395 ft However, there are occurrences in the Jun-Aug vicinity and herbarium specimens have been collected near the same elevation as the Project site. Beaked clarkia 1B.3 Cismontane woodland, valley and foothill Absent. Suitable communities and soils are Clarkia rostrate grassland absent, and Project site is outside of the North-facing slopes, sometimes on species’ elevational range and local sandstone distribution. 196–1640 ft Apr–May Big-scale balsamroot 1B.2 Chaparral, cismontane woodland, valley Absent. Project site is outside of the Balsamorhiza macrolepis and foothill grassland species local distribution and at the upper Sometimes serpentine edge of the species’ elevational range. Suitable communities and soils are absent. 295–5101 ft Mar–Jun

Communities, Soils, Elevational Range, Name Status1 and Blooming Period Potential for Occurrence on Project Site2 Bolander’s bruchia moss 2B.2 Lower montane coniferous forest, upper Unlikely. Suitable communities and Bruchia bolanderi montane coniferous forest, meadows and hydrologic conditions are present, seeps especially in the wet meadow, but the Damp soil Project site is below this species’ elevational range. Recorded from higher 5577–9187 ft elevations surrounding the area. Bolander’s clover 1B.2 Meadows and seeps, lower montane Unlikely. Although suitable communities Trifolium bolanderi coniferous forest, upper montane coniferous and hydrologic conditions are present, forest and the species is recorded 6 miles east of Mesic substrates, moist mountain meadows the project, the project site is outside the species elevation range. The nearest 6689–8531 ft localities are at 7000 to 7600 ft elevation. Jun–Aug Bolander’s woodreed 1B.2 Meadows and seeps, upper montane Unlikely. Suitable communities and Cinna bolanderi coniferous forest hydrologic conditions are present and the Mesic substrates, streamsides species is recorded in the vicinity, but the project site is slightly below this species’ 5479–8006 ft

B elevational range. -

2 Jul–Sep

Brook pocket moss 2B.2 Lower montane coniferous forest, upper Unlikely. Suitable communities and Fissidens aphelotaxifolius montane coniferous forest hydrologic conditions are present, but the Rock, stream channels, waterfalls project site is slightly below this species’ elevational range and outside of the 6561-7217 ft species’ local distribution (near Whiskey Falls and Shuteye Peak) Chaparral popcornflower 4.3 Chaparral, lower montane coniferous forest, Possible. Suitable communities and soils Plagiobothrys torreyi var. meadows and seeps, upper montane are present, the site is within the species’ perplexans coniferous forest elevational range, and there are records Burned areas, igneous soils in the vicinity. 3510-9005 ft Apr-Sep Coleman’s rein orchid 4.3 Chaparral, lower montane coniferous forest Present. Detected on site in July 2015. Piperia colemanii Often on sandy soils Suitable communities and soils are present, the site is within the species’ 3937-7545 ft elevational range, and there are records Jun-Aug in the vicinity.

Communities, Soils, Elevational Range, Name Status1 and Blooming Period Potential for Occurrence on Project Site2 Colusa grass FT, SE, 1B.1 Vernal pools (adobe, large) Absent. Vernal pools and suitable soils are Neostapfia colusana 16–657 ft not present on the site, the project is greatly outside of the species’ elevational May–Aug range, and it does not occur in the vicinity. Congdon’s eriophyllum SR, 1B.2 Chaparral, cismontane woodland, lower Absent. Suitable communities are present, Eriophyllum congdonii montane coniferous forest, valley and but specific soil requirements (rocky foothill grassland slopes) are absent. Site is within Rocky, metamorphic substrate, in cracks in elevational range but slightly outside of rock outcroppings and an talus; sometimes the species’ local distribution. with Quercus douglasi and Aesculus californica 1640–6234 ft Apr–Jun Congdon’s lewisia SR, 1B.3 Chaparral, cismontane woodland, lower Absent. Suitable communities are present, Lewisia congdonii montane coniferous forest, upper montane but specific requirements (rocky slopes

B conifer forest, valley and foothill grassland with northern exposure) are absent. Site is -

3 within elevational range and regional

Granitic or metamorphic, mesic sites, north exposures, in crevices on slopes among distribution, but appears to be restricted rocks to limited areas not in the immediate vicinity. 1640–9187 ft Apr–Jun Flaming trumpet 1B.2 Riparian forest, lower montane coniferous Possible. Suitable communities and soils Collomia rawsoniana forest, meadows and seeps are present, the site is within the species’ Mesic substrates, on stabilized alluvium in elevational range, and there are records riparian zones in the vicinity. 2559–7218 ft Jul–Aug Fresno ceanothus 4.3 Openings in cismontane woodland, lower Possible. Suitable communities and soils Ceanothus fresnensis montane coniferous forest are present, the site is within the species’ 2952-6899 ft elevational range, and there are records in the vicinity. May-Jul

Communities, Soils, Elevational Range, Name Status1 and Blooming Period Potential for Occurrence on Project Site2 Grey-leaved violet 1B.3 Meadows and seeps in upper montane Unlikely. Suitable communities are present Viola pinetorum ssp. grisea coniferous forest, subalpine coniferous forest and the site with within the species’ 4921-11,154 ft elevational range, but there are no records in the CNDDB in the project Apr-Jul vicinity Greene’s tuctoria FE, SR, 1B.1 Vernal pools Absent. Vernal pools are not present on Tuctoria greenei 98–3511 ft the site, the site is outside of the species’ elevational range, and it does not occur May–Sep in the vicinity. Hairy Orcutt grass FE, SE, 1B.1 Vernal pools Absent. Vernal pools are not present on Orcuttia pilosa 150–657 ft the site, the site is greatly outside of the species’ elevational range, and it does May–Sep not occur in the vicinity. Hartweg’s golden sunburst FE, SE, 1B.1 Cismontane woodland, valley and foothill Absent. Suitable communities and soils are Pseudobahia bahiifolia grassland not present on the site, the Property is Clay, often acidic substrates greatly outside of the species’ elevational range, and it does not occur in the B 49–493 ft - vicinity. 4

Mar–Apr Hoover’s sandmat FT, 1B.2 Vernal pools Absent. Vernal pools are not present on Chamaesyce hooveri 82–820 ft the site, the site is greatly outside of the species’ elevational range, and it does Jul–Oct not occur in the vicinity. Jepson’s dodder 1B.2 Streambanks of coniferous forest Possible. Suitable communities are Cuscuta jepsonii Parasitic vine growing on Ceanothus present, the site is within the species’ diversifolius and C. prostratus elevational range, and it occurs in the vicinity. The host species required was not 3937-7545 ft found on the original project site, but Jul-Sep could be present in the revised project site. Madera leptosiphon 1B.2 Cismontane woodland, lower montane Absent. Suitable communities and soils are Leptosiphon serrulatus coniferous forest present and the species occurs in the Dry slopes, often on decomposed granite vicinity but at lower elevations. 984–4266 ft Apr–May

Communities, Soils, Elevational Range, Name Status1 and Blooming Period Potential for Occurrence on Project Site2 Mariposa pussypaws FT, 1B.1 Chaparral, cismontane woodland Absent. Suitable communities and soils are Calyptridium pulchellum Sandy or gravelly, granitic substrates, on absent, and the species occurs only at granite domes, restricted to exposed sites lower elevations in the vicinity. 1312–3938 ft Apr–Aug Meesia moss 4.2 Bogs and fens, meadows and seeps, Absent. Suitable communities are absent, Meesia triquetra subalpine coniferous forest, upper montane the site is within the species’ elevational coniferous forest range, and there are no records near the 4265–9689 ft site. Jul Mountain lady’s slipper 4.2 Broadleaved upland forest, cismontane Possible. Suitable communities and soils Cypripedium montanum woodland, lower montane coniferous forest, are present, and the site is within the North Coast coniferous forest elevational range and local distribution. 606–7300 ft Mar–Aug B

- Mud sedge 2B.2 Bogs and fens, lower montane coniferous Possible. Suitable communities and 5 Carex limosa forest, meadows and seeps, marshes and hydrologic conditions are present and the swamps, upper montane coniferous forest species is recorded in the vicinity. 3937-8858 ft Jun-Aug Northern clustered sedge 2B.2 Bogs and fens, North Coast coniferous forest Absent. Suitable communities are absent Carex arcta Mesic substrates and the site is outside of the species’ elevational range. Species has a broadly 196–4594 ft scattered distribution and the only Jun–Sep location in the vicinity is from 1887. Oak-leaved nemophila 4.3 Cismontane woodland, lower montane Present. Detected on site in April and May Nemophila parviflora var. coniferous forest 2015. Suitable communities and soils are quercifolia 2296-7217 ft present, the site is within the species’ elevational range, and there are records May-Jun in the vicinity.

Communities, Soils, Elevational Range, Name Status1 and Blooming Period Potential for Occurrence on Project Site2 Orange lupine 1B.2 Chaparral, cismontane woodland, lower Absent. It is restricted to specific soil types Lupinus citrinus var. citrinus montane coniferous forest that are absent from the site. Rocky, decomposed granitic outcrops, usually open areas on flat to rolling terrain 1246–5578 ft Apr–Jul Oval-leaved viburnum 2B.3 Chaparral, cismontane woodland, lower Unlikely. Suitable soils and communities Viburnum ellipticum montane coniferous forest are present, but is outside of the species’ Generally north-facing slopes elevational range, and the only nearby record has been called into question. 705-4593 ft May-Jun Ribbonleaf pondweed 2B.2 Marshes and swamps (shallow, freshwater) Possible. Rainbow Lake may be suitable, Potamogeton epihydrus 1210–7126 ft the site is within the species’ elevational range, and there are records in the Jun–Sep vicinity.

B San Joaquin Valley Orcutt grass FT, SE, 1B.1 Vernal pools Absent. Vernal pools are not present on - 6

Orcuttia inaequalis 32–2477 ft the site, the site is greatly outside of the species’ elevational range, and it does Apr–Sep not occur in the vicinity. Short-bracted bird’s-beak 4.3 Chaparral, lower montane coniferous forest, Possible. Suitable communities and soils Cordylanthus rigidus ssp. pinyon and juniper woodland, upper are present, the site is within the species’ brevibracteatus montane coniferous forest elevational range, and there are records Openings often on granitic soil in the vicinity. 2001-8497 ft Jul-Oct Short-leaved hulsea 1B.2 Lower montane coniferous forest, upper Possible. Suitable communities and soils Hulsea brevifolia montane coniferous forest are present, the site is within the species’ Granitic or volcanic soils in forest openings elevational range, and there are records and road cuts, gravelly or sandy substrates 3 mi upstream from the project site in Big Creek and 1 mi east in Lewis Fork. 4921–10,499 ft May–Aug

Communities, Soils, Elevational Range, Name Status1 and Blooming Period Potential for Occurrence on Project Site2 Sierra clarkia 4.3 Cismontane woodland, lower montane Possible. Suitable communities and soils Clarkia virgata coniferous forest are present, the site is within the species’ 1312-5298 ft elevational range, and there are records in the vicinity. May-Aug Slender-stalked monkeyflower 1B.2 Chaparral, cismontane woodland, lower Absent. Suitable communities are present Mimulus gracilipes montane coniferous forest but specific soils required are absent and Thin granitic soil in cracks in large granite known to occur in the vicinity at lower rocks, often in burned or disturbed areas elevations. 1640–4266 ft Apr–Jun Slender stemmed monkeyflower 1B.2 Cismontane woodland, lower montane Possible. Suitable communities and soils Mimulus filicaulis coniferous forest, meadows and seeps, are present, the site is within the species’ upper montane coniferous forest elevational range, and records are in the Vernally mesic sites, moist granitic sand and vicinity. meadow edges

B 2952–5742 ft - 7

Apr–Aug Small’s southern clarkia 1B.2 Cismontane woodland, lower montane Possible. Suitable communities and soils Clarkia australis coniferous forest are present, the site is within the species’ Open, rocky sites elevational range, and records are in the vicinity about 5 miles away. 2624–6808 ft May–Aug Succulent owl’s clover FT, SE, 1B.2 Vernal pools Absent. Vernal pools and suitable soil Castilleja campestris ssp. Succulent Often acidic sites conditions are not present on the site, the site is greatly outside of the species’ 164–2461 ft elevational range, and it does not occur Apr–May in the vicinity. Western waterfan lichen 4.2 Riparian forest Possible. Suitable community and stream Peltigera gowardii Cold water creeks in mountain ranges with conditions are present, the site is within little or no sediment or disturbance; often the species’ elevational range, and a associated with rich bryophyte flora record is 1 mile to the east in Lewis Fork. 3494–7792 ft

Communities, Soils, Elevational Range, Name Status1 and Blooming Period Potential for Occurrence on Project Site2 Yellow-lip pansy monkeyflower 1B.2 Lower montane coniferous forest, meadows Possible. Suitable communities and soils Mimulus pulchellus and seeps are present, the site is within the species’ Vernally wet sites, sandy decomposed elevational range, and it is known to granite soils and moist meadows occur in the vicinity. 1968–6562 ft Apr–Jul Yosemite onion SR, 1B.3 Broadleaved upland forest, chaparral, Absent. It is restricted to specific soil types Allium yosemitense cismontane woodland, lower montane that are absent from the site. coniferous forest Rocky, metamorphic or granitic substrate, also on slopes and walls 1755–7218 ft Apr–Jul Yosemite popcornflower 1B.2 Lower montane coniferous forest, meadows Possible. Suitable communities and soils Plagiobothrys torreyi var. torreyi and seeps are present, the site is within the species’ elevational range, and it is known to B Forest edges and flats -

8 occur in the vicinity.

3937-6889 ft Apr-Jun Yosemite woolly sunflower 1B.3 Chaparral, lower montane coniferous forest, Absent. Suitable communities are present, Eriophyllum nubigenum upper montane coniferous forest but suitable soils are absent and the site is South facing slopes on granitic slabs and at the lower edge of the species’ domes; gravelly soils elevational range. Known to occur in the vicinity. 5003–9023 ft May–Aug

1Listing Status 2Definitions Regarding Potential Occurrence FE = Federally listed as endangered Present: Species observed on the site during the surveys or records exist FT = Federally listed as threatened of the species’ occurrence onsite FPE = Federally proposed for listing as endangered Possible: Species not observed during the reconnaissance surveys, but FTE = Federally proposed for listing as threatened suitable habitat is present (habitat type, soils, and elevation), SE = State listed as endangered and the species is known from the project vicinity ST = State listed as threatened Unlikely: Onsite habitat is marginal and/or the site is slightly outside the SR = State listed as rare species’ local distribution, and was not seen during the reconnaissance surveys SCE = State candidate for listing as endangered SCT = State candidate for listing as threatened Absent: Suitable habitat is not present and/or the project site is outside of the species’ local distribution or elevational range

California Rare Plant Rank Categories 1A = Plants presumed extirpated in California and either rare or extinct Threat Rank: elsewhere .1 = Seriously endangered in California. 1B = Plants rare, threatened, or endangered in California and elsewhere .2 = Fairly endangered in California 2A = Plants presumed extirpated in California, but more common elsewhere .3 = Not very endangered in California 2B = Plants rare, threatened, or endangered in California, but more common elsewhere 3 = Plants about which more information is needed—a review list B -

9 4 = Plants of limited distribution—a watch list

Table 2. Potential for Special-status Animals to Occur on the Project Site

Name Status1 Community Associations and Resource Requirements Potential for Occurrence on Project Site2 Mammals American badger SSC Open grasslands at the edge of scrub and woodland Unlikely. Suitable vegetative and soil conditions are Taxidea taxus habitats, savannas, meadows, desert scrub and present in limited areas on the site, including forest agricultural fields; found in California up to timberline openings, areas of prior disturbance, and along the in large mountain meadows; low to moderate slopes; forest/wet meadow edges; site is within species’ range, requires friable soils for burrows. and a historic locality is from Wawona. The species’ current distribution in the Sierra Nevada is poorly understood, and there are no recent records in the vicinity. California mastiff SSC Occurs in many open, semi-arid to arid habitats, Present. Detected during focused surveys of the original bat including conifer and deciduous woodlands, coastal project site. Suitable foraging habitat is present, but Eumops perotis scrub, annual and perennial grasslands, palm oases, roosting habitat is not present. californicus chaparral, desert scrub, and urban areas. Roosts in cavities and crevasses on cliffs. California wolverine ST, FP A wide variety of high-elevation communities; water Absent. Although marginally suitable habitat is present,

B Gulo gulo source for drinking; caves, logs, and burrows for cover the lack of recent records from the area, the scarcity of -

10 and denning. this species in California in general, and its proclivity

toward human avoidance preclude its occurrence. Fisher FPT, Mature, structurally complex conifer-hardwood Possible. Suitable habitat is present, the CNDDB includes Pekania pennanti SCT, forests; large diameter (≥18 in) live and dead standing a 1971 record of the species from the vicinity, and radio- SSC hardwoods (primarily black oak) and conifers for collared animals have been detected in the vicinity in (West coast DPS) resting, often in areas of high canopy closure (60– the past year. A fisher skull was found on a neighboring 100%), shrub cover, and density of large (≥40-in) property during a survey by HTH biologists in 2010. The snags, and within 330 ft of water. Den sites include a focused habitat assessment for this study found few trees variety of protected cavities, rocky areas, brush piles, and snags suitable for denning. They are unlikely to den under upturned trees, and hollow logs, trees, and on the site, but may forage or move through the site. snags. Fresno kangaroo FE, SE Chenopod scrub and annual grassland communities Absent. Project site is outside of species’ range. rat on the Valley floor, with sandy and saline sandy soils. Dipodomys nitratoides exilis

Name Status1 Community Associations and Resource Requirements Potential for Occurrence on Project Site2 Pallid bat SSC Forages in open dry communities including grasslands, Present. Detected during focused surveys of the original Antrozous pallidus shrublands, woodlands, and forests. Roosts in rocky project site. Suitable foraging and roosting habitats are outcrops, caves, crevices, mines, hollow trees, and present. buildings that moderate temperature. Night roosts on porches and open buildings. San Joaquin kit fox FE, ST Grassland with scattered shrubs, and agricultural Absent. Project site is outside of species’ range, and no Vulpes macrotis areas. Open, level terrain with loose-textured soils. suitable habitat is present. mutica Sierra Nevada SSC Montane riparian with dense brushy vegetation along Unlikely. Suitable habitat is present along Big Creek and mountain beaver streamsides or springs; narrow, shallow streams of high associated riparian communities; there is one CNDDB Aplodontia rufa gradient in moist, cool areas; needs deep friable soils record from the vicinity from 1931 but there are no recent californica to construct burrow systems records in the vicinity and the species was historically sparsely distributed. Sierra Nevada red ST A variety of communities including wet meadows and Absent. Suitable breeding and foraging habitat occur on fox forested areas; dense vegetation and rocky areas for the site; there is one CNDDB record from 1980 less than 5 Vulpes vulpes cover and den sites; den sites include rock outcrops, miles from the project site and a historic record 6 miles necator hollow logs and stumps, and burrows in loose soil. east -southeast of Wawona. Lower elevation records B

- may be misidentification of the nonnative subspecies. 11 This subspecies appears to have been extirpated from this part of its range and is only known to occur near Lassen Peak and Sonora Pass. Spotted bat SSC Cracks, crevices, and caves, primarily in fractured Possible. Suitable structures for roosting are absent but Euderma rock cliffs for roosting; desert-scrub, pinyon-juniper species may occasionally forage over the site. maculatum woodland, ponderosa pine, mixed conifer forest, canyon bottoms, rims of cliffs, riparian areas, fields, and open pasture for foraging. Townsend’s big- SCT, Desert scrub, sagebrush, chaparral, and deciduous Possible. Suitable structures for roosting are absent, but eared bat SSC and coniferous forests; prefers mesic habitats. Roosts the species may forage over the site. Was not detected Corynorhinus in caves, cliffs, mines, tunnels and bridges. Preys on during focused surveys, but their low intensity calls are townsendii moths and beetles. difficult to detect via acoustic techniques. Western mastiff bat SSC Open, semiarid to arid communities, including conifer Possible. Suitable resources for foraging and roosting are Eumops perotis and deciduous woodlands, coastal scrub, grasslands, present. californicus and chaparral; roosts in crevices in cliff faces, high buildings, trees, and tunnels.

Name Status1 Community Associations and Resource Requirements Potential for Occurrence on Project Site2 Western red bat SSC Trees and forest edges adjacent to streams, fields or Possible. Suitable resources for foraging and roosting are Lasiurus blossevillii urban areas for roosting; forest edges and open areas present. Males of this species are widespread throughout for foraging. the Sierra Nevada and we expect them to occur at least occasionally on the site to forage and roost. However, they are not present in this area in winter. Birds Bald eagle SE, FP Large lakes, reservoirs, coasts, and rivers; nests within 1 Unlikely. Rainbow Lake provides marginally suitable Haliaeetus mi of water in large, old-growth, or dominant live tree foraging opportunities due to its small size, but the leucocephalus with open branches, especially in ponderosa pine; species is known to occur throughout the region, and roosts communally in winter in dense, sheltered there are observation at Bass Lake and along the remote conifer stands; forages over water, prey Merced River. includes fish, birds, reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates, and mammals. Black-chinned BCC Chaparral, sagebrush, scrublands and shrubby Unlikely. Could pass through during migration but does sparrow hillsides; migrant. not breed in this area. Spizella atrogularis

B Black swift BCC, Mountainous areas; nests on cliffs near ocean, Unlikely. Could be present on a transitory basis and -

12 Cypseloides niger SSC waterfalls or river canyons. breeds in this area, but breeding microhabitat is not

present on the project site. Brewer’s sparrow BCC Occurs in sagebrush in this region. Absent. Suitable vegetation type is not present. Spizella breweri Burrowing owl BCC, Burrow sites are in open dry annual or perennial Absent. Suitable communities are not present, and Athene cunicularia SSC grasslands, deserts and scrublands characterized by project site is outside of the species’ range. low growing vegetation; also inhabits anthropogenic areas such as campuses, golf courses, cemeteries, airports, and grazed pastures. California spotted SSC, Montane forests, dense, shaded forested canyons; Unlikely. Suitable resources for foraging and nesting are owl BCC forages, roosts, and nests in multi-layered old growth present, a pair was detected near the project site during Strix occidentalis conifer forest, especially north-facing slopes; forages a survey by HTH biologists in 2010, and there are occidentalis on small and medium-sized mammals; roosts in oak numerous locations in the CNDDB throughout the vicinity. forests in winter; nests in snag and tree cavities, and However, they were not detected during focused surveys broken tree tops, or seldom in mistletoe, abandoned of the original project site and no sign was found. Human raptor nests, caves, cliffs or on ground. disturbances around the site probably decrease the potential for occurrence in this area.

Name Status1 Community Associations and Resource Requirements Potential for Occurrence on Project Site2 Calliope BCC Open montane forest, mountain meadows, and Possible. Suitable communities are present and could hummingbird willow and alder thickets, in migration and winter also breed in this area. Stellula calliope in chaparral, lowland brushy areas, deserts and semi- desert regions. Costa’s BCC Desert and semidesert, arid brushy foothills and Unlikely. Could be present on a transitory basis but hummingbird chaparral, in migration and winter also in adjacent suitable communities for breeding are not present. Calypte costae mountains and in open meadows and gardens. Flammulated owl BCC Breeds in open pine forest in mountains, especially Possible. Suitable community is present, could breed in Otus flammeolus ponderosa pine forest. this area, and there are several records near the Project site. Fox sparrow BCC Breeds in coniferous forest and mountain scrub Present. Records exist at Fish Camp during the breeding Passerella liaca (green-leaf manzanita, mountain whitethorn, and season, and suitable communities for breeding are bush chinquapin); winters in chaparral, and forages in present. open hardwood forests and swampy thickets during migration. Great gray owl SE Large meadows or meadow complexes with Possible. The wet meadows are marginally suitable for

B Strix nebulosa adjacent fir or pine forests at elevations of 2460 to foraging due to small size; suitable nesting substrates are -

13 7380 ft; nests in large, broken-topped large diameter absent.

snags or existing nests of other bird species; roosts in dense forest with high canopy closure; forages on small mammals from low, exposed perches near meadows. Green-tailed BCC Sagebrush, mountain chaparral, pinyon-juniper Unlikely. Marginally suitable habitat is present because towhee stands, and thickets bordering alpine meadows up to the site lacks dense shrubs; breeds in this area; and Pipilo chlorurus about 10,000 ft elevation. In winter they move to dry several observations are recorded in the project vicinity. washes, arroyos, mesquite thickets, oak-juniper Could occur on a transitory basis. woodland, creosote bush, and desert grasslands, typically below about 4000 ft elevation. Lewis’s BCC Breeding in ponderosa pine forests at higher Unlikely. Suitable community is present, but winters only woodpecker elevations, and riparian woodlands dominated by in this area. May occur on a transitory basis. Melanerpes lewis cottonwoods at lower elevations; nests in tree cavities. Winter in oak woodlands or orchards.

Name Status1 Community Associations and Resource Requirements Potential for Occurrence on Project Site2 Loggerhead shrike BCC, Open country with scattered shrubs and trees, Absent. Occurs at lower elevations, and suitable Lanius ludovicianus SSC wooded habitats with large openings, agricultural communities for foraging and vegetative structure for fields, pastures, old orchards, riparian areas, desert nesting habitats are not present on the site. scrublands, savannas, prairies, golf courses, and cemeteries. Often seen along mowed roadsides with access to fence lines and utility poles. Builds nests in thorny vegetation, or sometimes in brush piles or tumbleweeds. Northern goshawk SSC Conifer forests, often old-growth stands; nests on Unlikely. Suitable communities for foraging and nesting Accipiter gentilis north-facing slopes, near water, in dense stands but are present, and feathers were found near the project near openings; forages on birds and small mammals in site during a survey by HTH biologists in 2010. However, mature mixed conifer forests with meadows and they were not detected during focused surveys of the riparian habitat. original project site and no sign was found. Human disturbances around the site probably decrease the potential for occurrence in this area.

Nuttall’s BCC Found primarily in oak woodlands and in riparian Unlikely. Present year-round in the vicinity but no records woodpecker woods; rarely in conifers. Nests in cavity in trees. are from near the project site and suitable communities

B Picoides nuttallii are absent. Could be present on a transitory basis. - 14

Oak titmouse BCC Dry slopes—strongly tied to oak trees, although they Absent. Oak trees are uncommon, the species generally Baeolophus also live in areas of open pine or mixed oak-pine occurs at lower elevations, and no records are in the site inornatus forest or brush with woodland nearby. Nests in tree vicinity. cavities, and occasionally stumps, fence posts, pipes, eaves, or holes in riverbanks.

Olive-sided BCC, Breeds in montane and northern coniferous forests, at Present. Suitable communities are present, breeds in this flycatcher SSC forest edges and openings, such as meadows and area, and numerous records are from Fish Camp. Contopus cooperi ponds. Winters at forest edges and clearings where tall trees or snags are present.

Olive-sided BCC, Breeds in montane and northern coniferous forests, at Present. Suitable communities are present, breeds in this flycatcher SSC forest edges and openings, such as meadows and area, and numerous records are from Fish Camp. Contopus cooperi ponds. Winters at forest edges and clearings where tall trees or snags are present.

Name Status1 Community Associations and Resource Requirements Potential for Occurrence on Project Site2 Peregrine falcon FP, Breeds in open landscapes with cliffs (or skyscrapers at Unlikely. Present year-round in this area and may occur Falco peregrinus BCC elevations up to about 12,000 ft, as well as along on a transitory basis, but suitable structures for breeding anatum rivers, coastlines or in cities. In migration and winter are absent. Recorded near Wawona. found in any open habitat, commonly along barrier islands, mudflats, coastlines, lake edges, and mountain chains. Nesting sites are 25–1300 ft high on cliffs. Short-eared owl BCC, Open country, including prairie, meadows, tundra, Absent. Suitable communities are not present and Asio flammeus SSC moorlands, marshes, savanna, and open woodland; wintering only in this area. nests on the ground.

Snowy plover BCC, Barren to sparsely vegetated sand beaches, dry salt Absent. Suitable open habitat is not present; Rainbow Charadrius SSC flats in lagoons, dredge spoils deposited on beach or Lake has a densely vegetated shore that would be alexandrines dune habitat, levees and flats at salt-evaporation unsuitable. ponds, river bars, along alkaline or saline lakes, reservoirs, and ponds.

Vaux’s swift SSC Nests in coniferous or mixed forest; forages in forest Possible. Suitable nesting and foraging communities are

B Chaetura vauxi openings, especially above streams. present, and there are observations from near the - 15 project site during the breeding season.

White-headed BCC Montane coniferous forests dominated by pines. Present. Observed during the reconnaissance surveys. woodpecker Present year-round in this area and likely breeds and Picoides forages on the site. albolarvatus Williamson’s BCC Breeds in open coniferous forest, especially Possible. Suitable communities for foraging and sapsucker ponderosa pine and Douglas fir. Nests are in tree strutctures for nesting are present, occur year-round in Sphyrapicus cavities. this area, and there are numerous sightings in the vicinity. thyroideua Willow flycatcher SE, Densely vegetated riparian associations of Unlikely. Willows along Big Creek are sparse and lack Empidonax traillii BCC cottonwoods and willows; open, cup nest in upright sufficient structure to support this species, but nesting has fork of willow or other shrub at a height of 1.5 to 10 ft; been documented at Bass Lake and could occur on a roosts in dense willow thickets; forages mostly on transitory basis. insects from low, exposed branches. Yellow-billed BCC Oak savanna, open areas with large trees, and along Absent. Suitable communities are absent and does not magpie streams. Also forages in grassland, pasture, fields, and occur at higher elevations. Pica nuttalli orchards.

Name Status1 Community Associations and Resource Requirements Potential for Occurrence on Project Site2 Amphibians California red- FT, SSC Forages and breeds in streams with deep slow-moving Absent. Marginally suitable habitat is present in Rainbow legged frog pools, stock ponds, reservoirs, springs, lagoons, Lake due to shallow warm conditions and nonnative Rana draytonii marshes; usually with dense shoreline, emergent, or predators; marginally suitable habitat is present in Big submersed vegetation but also found at sites lacking Creek due to cold, shaded conditions; project site is at vegetation; uses riparian and most upland habitats in the upper limit of the species’ historic elevational range winter and for dispersal; 0 – 5000’ elevation. and species has been extirpated from this part of its geographic range. California tiger FT, SSC Vernal pools or other seasonal water sources for Absent. Vernal pools are not present and project site is salamander breeding; grasslands, scrub and oak woodlands outside of this species’ range. Ambystoma located within 2000 ft of breeding pools for upland californiense refuge and dispersal with small mammal burrows for shelter. Foothill yellow- SSC Rocky streams and rivers from sea level to about 6365 Absent. Suitable aquatic conditions are present in Big legged frog ft; prefers small to moderate-sized streams with cobble Creek and the species was recorded historically at this Rana boylii substrate, open sunny banks, isolated pools, and location. However, this species was not detected during backwaters; juveniles occupy riparian and streamside focused surveys, and it appears to be extirpated from this

B habitat adjacent to the wetted channel; area. - 16 overwintering habitat not well understood, but they remain close to streams. Sierra Nevada FE, ST, Lakes, ponds, and streams from 3525 to over 12,000 ft; Absent. Marginally suitable to unsuitable aquatic habitat yellow-legged frog SSC prefers open or rocky shorelines with gentle slope; is present in Rainbow Lake; species has been observed in Rana sierra overwinters in deep aquatic habitats. the vicinity; and the species was not detected during focused surveys. Aquatic predators present in Rainbow Lake would probably preclude this species from occurring. Yosemite toad FT, SSC Montane wet meadows, seasonal ponds in lodgepole Absent. Site is outside of the species’ elevational range Anaxyrus canorus pine and subalpine conifer forest at elevations of 6400 and communities are not present. to 11,300 ft (usually above 9000 ft); rodent burrows are used for overwintering and as temporary refugia during summer. Reptiles Blunt-nosed FE, SE, Semiarid grasslands, alkali flats and washes; prefers Absent. Suitable communities are not present and the leopard lizard FP flat areas with sparse shrubs (ephedra, saltbush). project site is greatly outside of the species’ range. Gambelia sila

Name Status1 Community Associations and Resource Requirements Potential for Occurrence on Project Site2 Giant garter snake FT, ST Marshes, sloughs and slow-moving streams on the Absent. Suitable habitat is not present and the project Thamnophis gigas Valley floor; highly aquatic. site is greatly outside of the species’ range. Northern western SSC Ponds, lakes, rivers, streams, marshes, brackish lagoons Absent. Suitable aquatic habitat present in Big Creek pond turtle and irrigation ditches with a mosaic of vegetation and and Rainbow Lake. However, the species was not Actinemys open areas for basking; uses upland areas for nesting detected during focused surveys. Adult bullfrogs in marmorata and in winter including woodland, forest, grassland, Rainbow Lake could negatively influence this species’ chaparral and grasslands. occurrence. Fish Central Valley FT, ST Anadromous; rivers in the Sacramento and San Absent. The project site is within this species’ historic spring-run ESU Joaquin Valley and their tributaries with pools, cover, range, but drainages in this region are anthropogenically chinook salmon spawning gravels, and adequate dissolved oxygen blocked. Oncorhynchus and temperatures. tshawytscha Central Valley DPS FT Anadromous or resident inland; rivers in the Absent. The project site is within this species’ historic steelhead Sacramento and San Joaquin Valley and their range, but drainages in this region are anthropogenically Oncorhynchus tributaries; needs cold water and gravel substrates. blocked. B

- mykiss 17

Delta smelt FT, SE Upper estuarine areas in or just upstream of the mixing Absent. Suitable habitat is not present and the project Hypomesus zone between fresh and salt water in the San site is greatly outside of the species’ range. transpacificus Francisco Bay-Delta. Paiute cutthroat FT Historically found on the eastern side of the Sierra Absent. This subspecies has been translocated to many trout Nevada, typically in small high elevation streams with areas outside of its native range, but these populations Oncorhynchus cool water and adequate dissolved oxygen; species are not protected and the species has not been clarki seleniris has a wide degree of tolerance for temperature, recorded in the Merced River system. sediment, and alkaline conditions. Invertebrates Conservancy fairy FE Ephemeral pools located in swales formed by old Absent. Suitable habitat is not present and the project shrimp braided alluvium filled by winter rains or vernal pools, site is greatly outside of the species’ range. Branchinecta lasting until June; usually large and turbid; surrounded conservation by grassland.

Name Status1 Community Associations and Resource Requirements Potential for Occurrence on Project Site2 Valley elderberry FT Elderberry shrubs in the Central Valley. Absent. The site is well above the approximate 3000-ft longhorn beetle elevation limit of this species. Desmocerus californicus dimorphus Vernal pool fairy FT Vernal pools, ephemeral swales, basalt flow Absent. Suitable habitat is not present and the project shrimp depression pools, depressions in sandstone rock site is greatly outside of the species’ range. Branchinecta lynchi outcrops; can occur in roadside ditches and puddles on pavement; usually with clear or tea-colored water; grass or mud bottoms; needs low TDS, conductivity, alkalinity, and chloride. Vernal pool FE Vernal pools and swales in unplowed grasslands in old Absent. Suitable habitat is not present and the project tadpole shrimp alluvial soils underlain by hardpan or mud; clear to site is greatly outside of the species’ range. Lepidurus packardi turbid water.

1Listing Status 2Definitions Regarding Potential Occurrence: B

- FE = Federally listed as endangered 18 Present: Species or sign of their presence observed on the site; records exist of the species’

FT = Federally listed as threatened occurrence on the site FPE = Federally proposed for listing as Possible: Species or sign not observed on the site, but suitable habitat is present and the species endangered is known from the project vicinity FPT = Federally proposed for listing as Unlikely: Onsite habitat is marginal and/or the site is slightly outside the species’ local distribution, threatened and was not seen during the surveys SE = State listed as endangered Absent: Species or sign were not observed during focused surveys despite the presence of ST = State listed as threatened appropriate habitat type; suitable habitat is not present; or project site is outside of the SCE = State candidate for listing as species’ range endangered

SCT = State candidate for listing as threatened FP = CDFW Fully Protected species SSC = CDFW Species of Special Concern BCC = Federal Bird of Conservation

Concern

DPS = Distinct Population Segment

ESU = Evolutionarily Significant Unit

Appendix C. Full Text of Mitigation Measures

Tenaya Explorer Cabins Project H. T. Harvey & Associates C-1 Biotic Report Addendum February 2016

Mitigation Measure BIO-1a: Conduct preconstruction surveys for and avoid rare plant species. During the spring and summer prior to construction, a qualified plant ecologist shall conduct surveys during the period when the rare plant species with potential to occur on the Project site are identifiable, which is generally the blooming period. The surveys shall follow the protocols given in California Native Plant Society (CNPS) Botanical Survey Guidelines (CNPS 2001) and Protocols for Surveying and Evaluating Impacts to Special Status Native Plant Populations and Natural Communities (California Department of Fish and Game 2009). If no rare plant species are detected during the survey, no further mitigation is required.

If rare plant species are detected, the Project Proponent in consultation with a qualified plant ecologist shall design, construct and maintain the Project to avoid or minimize impacts to the extent feasible. Avoided populations shall include a buffer of at least approximately 25 feet, which may be increased or decreased depending on the species’ rank, site-specific conditions, and anticipated Project activities. All such populations within 100 feet of Project disturbance limits, and their associated buffer areas, shall be clearly depicted on construction plan sets. Before any ground disturbance or vegetation removal, the avoidance areas shall be clearly flagged and maintained throughout construction. Protected plant populations shall be fenced throughout the operation of the resort facility to minimize impacts from recreational use and site maintenance activities.

If complete avoidance is not feasible, additional mitigation shall be provided based upon the level of impacts and rank of the species affected. If the number of individuals affected is equal to or greater than 10% of the regional population for California Rare Plant Rank (CRPR) 1B, 2A, 2B, or 3 species, or equal to or greater than 30% of the regional population for CRPR 4 species, compensatory mitigation as described in Mitigation Measure (MM) BIO-1b shall be implemented.

Mitigation Measure BIO-1b. Provide compensatory mitigation for impacts on special-status plant species. The Project Proponent shall provide compensatory mitigation areas to offset the impacts on any rare plant populations that could not be avoided and meet significance criteria, as described in MM BIO-1a. Areas with potentially suitable habitat for the target species affected, as determined by the qualified plant ecologist, shall be preserved onsite at a 1:1 ratio (area preserved: area affected). The compensatory mitigation area will be protected in perpetuity with a conservation easement. No maintenance activities (other than nonnative plant removal) or future development may occur in these compensatory mitigation areas. The mitigation areas should either be already occupied by the target species or have suitable habitat and be located in close proximity to existing populations from which propagules can spread naturally. The qualified plant ecologist may recommend that seeds or other propagules be collected from local sources and planted in mitigation areas.

Mitigation Measure BIO-2a: Conduct tree survey and avoid mature California black oak (Quercus kelloggii) trees. Before construction begins, a survey for trees and snags greater than or equal to 20 inches dbh shall be conducted in all impact areas that were not surveyed during the tree inventory conducted for the biotic report (H. T. Harvey & Associates 2014). The trees and snags shall be evaluated to determine the presence of suitable rest site locations and potential den sites for the fisher based on guidance in Green et al. (2013), and evaluated for potential roost sites for tree cavity-roosting special-status bat species. If possible, the

Tenaya Explorer Cabins Project H. T. Harvey & Associates C-2 Biotic Report Addendum February 2016

site plan shall be redesigned to relocate the clubhouse away from heritage California black oak trees, including a 25-foot buffer between the driplines of the trees and any landscaped and irrigated areas. If these trees cannot be avoided, then MM BIO-2b shall be implemented.

Mitigation Measure BIO-2b: Provide compensatory mitigation for impacts on California black oaks. The Project Proponent shall retain a qualified plant ecologist to design a California black oak replanting plan. If any soil disturbance, staging, or vehicle access takes place during construction within the 25-foot buffer from the dripline of California black oak trees >20 inches diameter at breast height (dbh), or if these trees are removed, they shall be replaced at a 4:1 ratio (number of seedlings planted: number of mature trees removed or potentially impacted). Seedlings will be procured from locally obtained stock. The qualified plant ecologist will prepare a planting plan that will detail watering regime, protection from herbivores, nonnative plant species removal, monitoring for 5 years, success criteria, and a contingency plan if success criteria are not met after the end of the monitoring period.

Mitigation Measure BIO-3a: Conduct preconstruction surveys for American badgers (Taxidea taxus) and avoid occupied dens. No more than 30 days before the start of construction activities, the Project Proponent shall retain a qualified biologist to conduct preconstruction surveys for potential American badger dens. All areas of suitable habitat within the impact area plus a 300-foot buffer (where access allows) shall be surveyed, and all potential dens shall be flagged and mapped. Any potential dens identified will be monitored using tracking medium or an infrared-beam trail camera for three consecutive nights to determine current use. Inactive potential dens shall be blocked with a one-way door or excavated to prevent use during construction. Blocking with one-way doors is preferable to excavation where feasible, since they would be available to badgers after construction. Occupied badger dens shall be flagged, and a buffer around the den shall be established in which all ground-disturbing activities are avoided. If construction takes place during the nonbreeding season (1 July through 14 February), the buffer shall be 50 feet from the occupied den, and if construction takes place during the breeding season (15 February through 30 June) the buffer shall be 200 feet to protect adults and nursing young. Buffers may be modified by the qualified biologist, provided the badgers are protected, and shall not be removed until the qualified biologist has determined that the den is no longer in use. Flagging that is highly visible shall encircle the occupied den at the appropriate buffer distance, and shall not prevent access to the den by badgers. If work must be conducted within the buffer area of an active nonmaternity den, badgers shall be relocated following the methods described in MM BIO-3b.

Mitigation Measure BIO-3b: Passively remove American badgers if den avoidance is not feasible. If avoidance of an active nonmaternity den is not feasible, badgers shall be excluded by incrementally blocking the den over a three-day period using branches or other forest materials, to create disturbance and encourage relocation. This work shall be conducted by a qualified biologist outside of the young rearing season (15 February through 30 June). Then the den will be slowly excavated, either by hand or with mechanized equipment, removing no more than 4 inches of soil at a time.

Tenaya Explorer Cabins Project H. T. Harvey & Associates C-3 Biotic Report Addendum February 2016

Mitigation Measure BIO-4a: Conduct preconstruction surveys for fishers (Pekania penanti) and avoid occupied dens. Trees or snags containing cavities that were identified as potentially suitable for fisher den sites shall be screened using trail cameras no more than 7 days before the initiation of construction activities in any given area of the Project site to determine whether there are occupied dens. A minimum of three infrared trail cameras shall be used for each tree or snag with a potentially suitable cavity. The cameras shall be mounted in a circle around the base of the tree such that the cameras have direct and overlapping views of the base of the tree or snag, in order to detect a fisher traveling up the main trunk. The cameras shall be mounted no more than 20 feet from the base of the tree or snag and tested after installation to confirm they are functioning properly and that they trigger when there is motion at the trunk. A minimum of three consecutive nights of camera data with no detections of fishers is required before the tree or snag can be considered inactive. If any occupied dens are detected, a disturbance-free buffer of 300 feet shall be flagged around the den at ground level. Buffers may be modified by the qualified biologist, provided the fishers are protected, and shall not be removed until the qualified biologist has determined that the den is no longer in use. If buffer areas cannot be avoided during construction activities, MM BIO-4b shall be implemented.

Mitigation Measure BIO-4b: Conduct construction near occupied fisher dens outside the kit rearing season. If construction activities must be conducted within the established buffer areas from occupied fisher dens, work in these areas must take place between 30 June and 1 February, which is outside of the kit-rearing season. During this period and prior to work occurring within the established buffer, a qualified biologist shall monitor occupied den sites daily for a period of at least 7 days to confirm that the den has been vacated. Infrared trail cameras shall also be deployed during this period as outlined in Mitigation Measure BIO-4a above, to aid in confirming vacancy.

For non-maternity dens, if no fishers are seen or detected on the cameras, the tree can be removed or work can take place within the buffer area on the seventh monitoring day, with oversight by the qualified biologist. If fishers are observed to be occupying the den at any time during the 7-day monitoring period, the biologist will monitor the den weekly until the individual has vacated the den. Thereafter, the tree may be removed or work conducted within the buffer area with oversight by the qualified biologist.

For maternity dens (dens with female and kits), if no fishers are seen or detected on the cameras, work can take place within the buffer area on the seventh monitoring day, with oversight by a qualified biologist. If fishers are observed to be occupying the den at any time during the 7-day monitoring period, the biologist will monitor the den weekly until the individual has vacated the den Trees with dens identified as maternity dens shall not be removed, and will be preserved in place.

Mitigation Measure BIO-4c: Avoid use of anticoagulant rodenticides and insecticides during construction and operation. To prevent exposing fishers to toxic chemical compounds, no anticoagulant rodenticides or insecticides shall be used during construction or operation of the Project.

Tenaya Explorer Cabins Project H. T. Harvey & Associates C-4 Biotic Report Addendum February 2016

Mitigation Measure BIO-5a: Conduct preconstruction surveys for roosting bats and avoid roost sites. Preconstruction surveys shall be conducted during an appropriate seasonal period to detect bats, which at this elevation would be mid-April to mid-October. Acoustic monitoring shall be performed to determine the species of bats occupying the site. Acoustic monitoring devices shall be set up for full coverage of the site and allowed to collect data for two nights. If no special-status bat species are detected during the initial acoustic monitoring surveys, the monitors shall be left in place for an additional three nights to confirm that special-status bat species are not present on the site. If no special-status bat species are detected, no further mitigation is required. If special-status bat species are detected, Generation 3-plus night-vision goggles shall be used in surveys to determine the presence of any roosting bats in tree cavities, under bark, or in foliage. All trees in the impact area plus a 300-foot buffer (on the subject property) shall be surveyed. Night-vision surveys shall be conducted by two people for two nights. If any roost sites are detected, a disturbance-free buffer of 300 feet shall be flagged. Buffers may be modified by the qualified biologist, provided the bats are protected, and shall not be removed until the qualified biologist has determined that the roost site is no longer in use. If buffer areas cannot be avoided during work, implementation of MM BIO-5b shall be required.

Mitigation Measure BIO-5b: Passively remove special-status roosting bats if avoidance is not feasible. If occupied roosts of special-status bat species cannot be avoided as described in MM BIO-5a, work in these areas must take place between 1 August and 31 October, which is outside the winter hibernation and maternity roosting seasons. In this period, a qualified bat biologist, who has received authorization under a Memorandum of Understanding with California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), and shall conduct passive eviction by opening the roosting cavity to allow air flow, placing a one-way door on the entrance(s) to the roost, or disturbing the roost using a high-frequency broadcasting device. A bat biologist shall continue monitoring the roost with acoustic surveys to ensure that no bats are in the roosts before the trees are removed.

Mitigation Measure BIO-6a: Conduct work outside of the nesting season. If feasible, all construction activities shall occur between 1 September and 28 February, which is outside the breeding season. If the breeding season cannot be avoided, implementation of Mitigation Measure BIO-6b is required.

Mitigation Measure BIO-6b: Conduct preconstruction surveys for nesting birds (excluding raptors) and avoid nests. If it is not possible to schedule construction between 1 September and 28 February, a qualified biologist shall conduct a preconstruction survey for nesting birds to ensure that no active nests will be disturbed during Project implementation. The preconstruction survey shall be conducted no more than 7 days before the initiation of construction activities in any given area of the Project site. During this survey, the qualified biologist shall inspect all potential nest substrates in the impact area, and all nests identified will be monitored to determine if they are active. Surveys for raptors will follow established protocols, and are described in MM BIO-6c. If an active nest is found within 50 feet of the construction area to be disturbed by these activities, the biologist, in consultation with CDFW, shall determine the extent of a buffer to be established around the nest. The buffer will be delineated with flagging, and no work shall take place within the buffer area until the young have left the nest, as determined by a qualified biologist.

Tenaya Explorer Cabins Project H. T. Harvey & Associates C-5 Biotic Report Addendum February 2016

Mitigation Measure BIO-6c: Conduct preconstruction surveys for and avoid California spotted owl (Strix occidentalis occidentalis), northern goshawk (Accipiter gentilis), and other raptor nests. If construction activities occur during the breeding season (1 March to 31 August), a qualified biologist shall conduct focused surveys for nests of raptor species within the construction zone and plus a 500-foot buffer (where access allows), no more than 15 days before the initiation of construction activities at the Project site. These surveys shall follow the methods for nest site identification described in the relevant survey protocols, which include the following components:

California spotted owl (U.S Fish and Wildlife Service [USFWS] 2012):

• Surveys to be conducted between 15 March and 31 August

• Establish calling stations and survey routes to provide coverage of all suitable habitats within the Project site

• Conduct nighttime spot calling using a digital wildlife caller

• Conduct daytime follow-up surveys to determine nest sites by searching for pellets, whitewash, and molted feathers

Northern goshawk (U.S. Forest Service 2006):

• Survey timing shall be based on local data for nesting activity in the vicinity

• Listening stations should be placed to ensure coverage of all suitable habitat areas

• Surveys should take place from at least 45 minutes before sunrise to 1.5 hours after sunrise

• Nests should be located after the estimated date of hatching

If nests are found during the surveys, a 500-foot disturbance-free buffer shall be established around each nest, and demarcated by fencing or flagging. The buffer distance may be reduced if the qualified biologist determines that a nest site would be shielded from Project construction activities by topographic or other features that would minimize disturbance, and in coordination with CDFW. No work shall take place within the buffer area until the young have left the nest, as determined by a qualified biologist.

General Biological Mitigation Measures

In addition to the species-specific mitigation measures described above, implementation of the following general biological mitigation measures will reduce impacts on all protected biological resources during construction and operation.

Tenaya Explorer Cabins Project H. T. Harvey & Associates C-6 Biotic Report Addendum February 2016

Mitigation Measure BIO-7a: Prepare and present a Worker Environmental Awareness Program. The Project Proponent shall retain a qualified biologist to prepare a Worker Environmental Awareness Program that will be presented to all construction personnel and employees before any ground-disturbing activities commence at the Project site. This program shall detail the avoidance and minimization measures undertaken during Project implementation to avoid and minimize impacts on biological resources. It shall include a description of special-status species potentially occurring on the Project site and their natural history; the status of the species and their protection under the federal Endangered Species Act, California Endangered Species Act, Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, Migratory Bird Treaty Act, and California Fish and Game Code; and the penalties for take.

The program shall also describe the measures to be undertaken to avoid impacts on jurisdictional areas. It shall include a description of jurisdictional areas on the site, the specifications of any permitted impacts on jurisdictional areas, measures to protect areas to be avoided, and maps showing the location of jurisdictional areas and any permitted impacts. All attendees of the Worker Environmental Awareness Program shall sign an attendance form.

Mitigation Measure BIO-7b: Observe construction standard operating practices. The following standard practices are recommended to reduce various project impacts on biological resources. a) Prior to the start of construction, the limits of disturbance shall be clearly delineated by stakes, construction fencing, flags, or another clearly identifiable system. b) All pipes, culverts, metal tubing, or similar structures stored or stacked on the Project site for one or more overnight periods shall be either securely capped before storage or thoroughly inspected for wildlife before the materials are moved, buried, capped, or otherwise used. In addition, materials such as lumber, plywood, and rolls of silt fence or roofing stored on site shall be thoroughly inspected before use. Materials that could provide shelter/nesting habitat for birds shall be covered with netting or other exclusion methods during the nesting season, where feasible and appropriate, to prevent birds from building nests. If encountered, wildlife shall be allowed to escape unimpeded, or relocated by a qualified biologist to a designated appropriate habitat area away from construction activities. Any wildlife relocations shall be authorized as necessary by CDFW and/or USFWS. c) To prevent entrapment of wildlife, all excavations (e.g., steep-walled holes or trenches) more than 6 inches deep shall be covered with plywood or similar materials when not in use or contain escape ramps constructed of dirt fill, wooden planks, or another material that wildlife could ascend. The amount of time trenches or other excavations are left open shall be minimized. All excavations more than 6 inches deep shall be inspected daily prior to the start of construction and immediately before being covered or filled. Any wildlife discovered shall be allowed to escape unimpeded before construction activities resume or shall be relocated by an authorized biologist. d) Dust suppression shall occur during construction activities when necessary to meet air quality standards and protect biological resources.

Tenaya Explorer Cabins Project H. T. Harvey & Associates C-7 Biotic Report Addendum February 2016

e) To minimize disturbance, all vehicle traffic shall be restricted to established roads, construction areas, and other designated areas.

f) Drivers of Project-related vehicles shall observe a 15-mile-per-hour speed limit within Project areas during construction. Speed limit signs shall be installed at the Project site entrance during construction. g) No vehicles or equipment shall be refueled within 100 feet of jurisdictional areas unless a bermed and lined refueling area is constructed. Spill kits shall be maintained on the site in sufficient quantity to accommodate at least three complete vehicle tank failures of 50 gallons each. Any vehicles driven or operated within or adjacent to drainages or wetlands shall be checked and maintained daily to prevent leaks. No vehicles or construction equipment shall be stored overnight within 100 ft of jurisdictional areas unless drip pans or ground covers are used. h) No concrete washout shall be conducted on the site outside of an appropriate containment system. i) The use of chemicals, fuels, lubricants, or biocides shall be in compliance with all local, State, and federal regulations. All uses of such compounds shall observe label and other restrictions mandated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, California Department of Food and Agriculture, and other State and federal legislation. Also see MM BIO-4C restricting the use of anticoagulant rodenticides. j) All food-related trash items (e.g., wrappers, cans, bottles, food scraps), small construction debris (e.g., nails, bits of metal and plastic), and other human-generated debris (e.g., cigarette butts) shall be stored in animal- proof containers and/or removed from the site on a weekly basis. No deliberate feeding of wildlife shall be allowed.

Mitigation Measure BIO-7c: Implement biological construction monitoring. Before the start of construction, the Project Proponent shall retain a qualified biological monitor who will be on the site during all tree removal, vegetation clearing, and initial grading activities. If a special-status wildlife species is encountered during monitoring, the following protocol shall be implemented: a) All work that could result in death, injury, disturbance, or harassment of the individual animal shall immediately cease and the qualified biologist shall be consulted on the appropriate measures to avoid take. b) If authorized by Project-specific permits, the qualified biologist shall relocate the animal outside the Project impact areas, or the animal shall be allowed to leave unimpeded. c) Construction shall resume as soon as the animal is out of harm’s way, as directed by the qualified biologist.

Mitigation Measure BIO-7d: Restore temporarily affected habitats to preserve habitat functions and values for wildlife and plant species. Areas where temporary, construction-related impacts have taken place shall be restored under the direction of a qualified restoration ecologist. Methods may include recontouring graded areas to blend in with existing natural contours, and covering the areas with salvaged topsoil containing native seedbank from the site. Areas where substantial soil compaction has occurred may be treated with light ripping or other methods to rectify compaction, as recommended by the qualified restoration ecologist. No

Tenaya Explorer Cabins Project H. T. Harvey & Associates C-8 Biotic Report Addendum February 2016

fertilization of disturbed soils shall be prescribed unless recommended by the qualified restoration ecologist. As appropriate, highly disturbed soils may be amended with certified weed-free mulch.

Mitigation Measure BIO-7e: Prepare a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) and Obtain Coverage Under a National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) General Permit. To prevent impacts on the water quality of wetlands and streams, the Project Proponent shall direct the preparation of a SWPPP covering the site preparation, construction, and postconstruction periods. The SWPPP shall incorporate Best Management Practices (BMPs) consistent with the NPDES General Permit for Storm Water Discharges Associated with Construction Activity (CA-S000002), which shall be obtained by the Project Proponent. The SWPPP shall follow the guidelines in Developing Your Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan: A Guide for Construction Sites (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency 2007), and may include specifications for the following:

• Minimizing disturbed areas

• Stockpiling and disposing of demolition debris, concrete, and soil

• Protecting existing storm drain inlets

• Stabilizing disturbed areas and protecting slopes

• Implementing erosion and sediment control measures

• Managing construction material storage, waste and litter

• Postconstruction stormwater controls

If construction takes place during the rainy season (1 October to 1 May), stormwater BMPs shall be detailed in the SWPPP, and be installed and maintained throughout work during this period. These measures shall include, but not be limited to, installing fiber rolls around stockpiled material (e.g., soil, gravel); silt fence or straw bales at the edge of construction limits where runoff is likely to occur; and jute netting or erosion control fabric on exposed slopes. Temporarily disturbed areas shall be immediately revegetated following construction activities, as described in MM BIO-7d. During Project construction and operation, the Project Proponent shall comply with all applicable water quality standards and prohibitions, including provisions of the State Water Resources Control Board.

Mitigation Measure BIO-7f: Prepare a Hazardous Materials Spill Response Plan. The Project Proponent shall prepare a Hazardous Materials Spill Response Plan that details the protocols to follow in the event that a hazardous material is released into the environment. This plan shall be submitted to the County of Mariposa for review and approval prior to the issuance of any building or grading permit. This plan shall be maintained on the Project site, and all personnel working on the Project site shall be notified of its location.

Tenaya Explorer Cabins Project H. T. Harvey & Associates C-9 Biotic Report Addendum February 2016

Mitigation Measure BIO-8a: Avoid and minimize impacts on wetland and riparian habitats by providing appropriate setbacks and depict setbacks on Project plan sets. A minimum 25-foot setback shall be observed, where feasible, from the outer edge of all wet meadow and forested/shrub wetland/riparian communities, as shown in Figure 6. Setbacks areas to be avoided shall be fenced or flagged before construction occurs in adjacent areas. To facilitate site management and ensure avoidance of these sensitive features, all wetlands, riparian areas and streams and their setback areas shall be clearly delineated on plan sets. No construction- or operation-related vehicular access shall occur through wetlands, riparian areas, or streams. A biological monitor shall be present during the work to ensure the setback areas are avoided. If these areas cannot be avoided, MM BIO-8b shall be implemented.

Mitigation Measure BIO-8b: Provide compensatory mitigation for permanent impacts on wetlands and riparian areas. If impacts on wetlands and/or riparian areas cannot be avoided, areas containing these communities shall be enhanced and preserved to compensate for permanent impacts in a manner that achieves no net loss in acreage or function. These areas shall be managed in perpetuity at a 2:1 mitigation ratio (acres enhanced and preserved: acres permanently affected). Permanent loss includes all areas where permanent fill is placed during the construction of building pads or roads; where buildings or other amenities are constructed within the boundaries of these areas; and where native vegetation may be replaced with landscaped areas. Enhancement of the preserved habitat shall be site-specific according to opportunities available at the compensatory mitigation site, and may include native species planting, weed removal, and fencing to exclude recreational use. Preserved wetland and riparian areas providing compensatory mitigation for permanent impacts shall be placed in a conservation easement or similar legal mechanism and managed in perpetuity.

The design, monitoring schedule, and success criteria for all compensatory mitigation the sites shall be described in a Wetland and Riparian Mitigation and Monitoring Plan (WRMMP). The goal of the WRMMP shall be to achieve no net loss in acreage or function of these sensitive natural communities. The WRMMP shall contain a contingency plan for elements that do not meet performance criteria within 3 years for wetlands and 5 years for riparian areas; specific triggers for remediation if performance criteria are not being met; and contingency measures to be implemented to ensure that success criteria are met during the subsequent monitoring period.

Tenaya Explorer Cabins Project H. T. Harvey & Associates C-10 Biotic Report Addendum February 2016

Appendix C References [CDFG] California Department of Fish and Game. 2009. Protocols for Surveying and Evaluating Impacts to Special Status Native Plant Populations and Natural Communities. State of California, California Natural Resources Agency. 24 November.

[CNPS] California Native Plant Society. 2001. CNPS Botanical Survey Guidelines. Revised 2 June 2001.

[USEPA] U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 2007. Developing Your Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan: A Guide for Construction Sites. EPA-833-R-06-004.

[USFWS] U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2012. Protocol for Surveying Proposed Management Activities That May Impact Northern Spotted Owls. 9 January.

U.S. Forest Service 2006. Northern Goshawk Inventory and Monitoring Technical Guide United States Department of Agriculture. General Technical Report WO-71.

Tenaya Explorer Cabins Project H. T. Harvey & Associates C-11 Biotic Report Addendum February 2016