BIOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT/EVALUATI ON, NON-NATIVE RISK ASSESSMENT, WILDLIFE AND BOTANY REPORTS, and MANAGEMENT INDICATOR SPECIES EVALUATIONS for the RATTLESNAKE MOUNTAIN OHV TRAILS PROJECT Mountaintop Ranger District San Bernardino National Forest

Botany Sections Prepared by:

/s/ Scott Eliason November 12, 2015 Scott Eliason, District Botanist Date

Wildlife Sections Prepared by:

/s/ Drew Farr November 12, 2015 Drew Farr, Wildlife Biologist Date

Wildlife Sections Reviewed by:

/s/ David Austin November 12, 2015 David Austin (Forest Biologist)

/s/ Robin Eliason November 12, 2015 Robin Eliason (Mountaintop District Biologist)

Page 1

SUMMARY This report addresses the potential effects of the proposed project on Threatened, Endangered, and Sensitive species; San Bernardino National Forest Watch list species; non-native invasive species; Management Indicator Species; general vegetation, and general wildlife that are known or likely to occur in the Rattlesnake Mountain Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) trail analysis area.

The proposal is to designate 8.1 miles of OHV routes and restore approximately 25 miles of unauthorized routes in the Rattlesnake Mountain area of the Mountaintop Ranger District. The proposed Rattlesnake Mountain OHV trails are located entirely on National Forest System lands on the San Bernardino National Forest.

Table 1 displays the known and potential occurrences of special status species in the analysis area and summarizes the “Determinations of Effects” for each.

Federally-Listed Wildlife Species and Designated Critical Habitat There are no known occurrences or suitable habitat for any federally-Threatened/Endangered (T/E) wildlife species in or near the analysis area and federal action area (Table 1). No proposed or designated Critical Habitat for any occurs within the analysis area or with the range of potential effects. The determination of effects for T/E wildlife species and designated Critical Habitat is “no effect”.

Federally-Listed Species and Designated Critical Habitat Two federally-listed Endangered plant species and their designated Critical Habitat occur within the analysis area and federal action area (Table 1). No additional listed plant species are known to occur within analysis area, federal action area, or within the reach of direct or indirect effects of the project. The project would not affect these species or their designated Critical Habitat. The determination of effects for T/E plant species and designated Critical Habitat is may affect “not likely to adversely affect”. We anticipate that Section 7 Endangered Species Act compliance will be achieved through informal consultation and concurrence.

Forest Service Sensitive Species Nine Forest Service Sensitive wildlife species are known or expected in the analysis area. The determinations of effects for all of the Sensitive wildlife species with potential to occur in the analysis area are “may impact individuals or habitat but not likely to lead in a trend toward federal listing” (Table 1).

Nine Forest Service Sensitive plant species are known from the analysis area. The determinations of effects for all of the Sensitive plant species known or with potential to occur in the analysis area are “may impact individuals or habitat but not likely to lead in a trend toward federal listing”.

SBNF Watch List Species No threat to the viability of any of the SBNF Watchlist animals or , or other potentially vulnerable species, is expected from the proposed project.

Page 2

Summary of Determinations Table 1 provides a summary of species known to occur in or adjacent to the analysis area or those with a high probability of occurrence. Other sections of this document display all of the species considered in this evaluation. In addition, the following Management Indicator Species were evaluated for this project: mule deer, mountain lion, and song sparrow.

Table 1. Summary Of Effects Determinations For TESW Species In And Near the Analysis area Common Name Occurrence Information 1 Determinations 2 Threatened and Endangered Animals condor Potential foraging NE Threatened & Endangered Plants Acanthochyphus parishii var. Known occurrences; Designated Critical Habitat NLAA goodmaniana ovailifolium var. vineum Known occurrences; Designated Critical Habitat NLAA Forest Service Sensitive Animals San Emigdio blue butterfly P MIIH Arrowhead Blue Butterfly Y(Coxey meadow) MIIH Ehrlich’s checkerspot Butterfly Y(host plant in area) MIIH Vernal Blue Butterfly Y(within 1 mile of Coxey meadow, Little Pine Flat) MIIH Large/yellow-blotched ensatina P @ springs MIIH California legless lizard P MIIH southern rubber boa P MIIH three-lined boa P MIIH San Bernardino ringneck snake P MIIH San Bernardino mountain kingsnake Y (Furnace Cyn record, record btw Big Pine and MIIH Little Pine Flats, 3N14 NW of Rattlesnake Mtn) Two-striped garter snake Y (@Crystal Creek, Furnace Cyn, Coxey creek) MIIH gray vireo Y MIIH Townsend’s big-eared bat Y (North Peak wind study area) MIIH fringed myotis Y (North Peak wind study area) MIIH pallid bat Y (North Peak wind study area) MIIH San Bernardino flying squirrel P MIIH Forest Service Sensitive Plants Abronia nana var. covillei Known from analysis area MIIH bicristatus Known from analysis area MIIH Astragalus lentiginosus var. sierrae Known from analysis area MIIH parishii Known from analysis area MIIH Boechera shockleyi Known from analysis area MIIH Calochortus palmeri var. palmeri Known from analysis area MIIH plagiotoma Known from analysis area MIIH Dudleya abramsii var. affinis Known from analysis area MIIH Phlox dolicantha Known from analysis area MIIH SBNF Watchlist Animals Springsnails P @ springs/seeps NVT Dorhn’s elegant eucnemid P NVT bicolored rainbeetle P NVT desert monkey grasshopper P @ lower areas (records for Cushenbury Canyon NVT area) San Bernardino Mountains silk moth P (records for Coxey Meadow) NVT August checkerspot butterfly N – no suitable habitat NVT Andrew's marble butterfly P – host plants are present NVT Monterey ensatina salamander P @ Crystal Creek and other drainages NVT Page 3

Table 1. Summary Of Effects Determinations For TESW Species In And Near the Analysis area Common Name Occurrence Information 1 Determinations 2 Zebra-tail lizard P@ lower areas (records for desert slopes near Deep NVT Creek) Mojave black-collared lizard Y @ lower areas NVT Desert night lizard P (Records for Cushenbury Springs and Cactus Flats) NVT coast patch-nosed snake P NVT mountain garter snake P NVT southwestern speckled rattlesnake P (nearby records for lower Marble Cyn) NVT turkey vulture (breeding) P NVT northern harrier P NVT sharp-shinned hawk (breeding) Y (Cushenbury Springs record) NVT Cooper's hawk (breeding) Y (Crystal Creek nesting; Cushenbury Springs NVT record; sightings @ analysis area) ferruginous hawk P (migration; not nesting) NVT golden eagle Y (nesting on North Slope, foraging in analysis area) NVT American peregrine falcon P for nesting NVT prairie falcon Y (Records from Cushenbury Springs; Burnt Flat, NVT Breeding @Deep Canyon, Dry Canyon, Crystal Creek) flammulated owl P NVT western screech owl P (records from Cushenbury Springs) NVT northern pygmy owl P NVT burrowing owl U NVT long-eared owl P in Crystal Creek (Records from Cushenbury NVT Springs) northern saw-whet owl P NVT common nighthawk P NVT Mexican whip-poor-will P NVT black swift Y (records from Deep Canyon) NVT calliope hummingbird P (record @ Cushenbury Springs and Jacoby Cyn) NVT Williamson's sapsucker P NVT Nuttall's woodpecker Y (records: Jacoby Cyn, Dry Cyn, Crystal Creek, NVT Cushenbury Springs, B-S analysis area) white-headed woodpecker Y (nearby records) NVT gray flycatcher Y @ analysis area NVT loggerhead shrike Y (nearby records) NVT plumbeous vireo Y (nearby records) NVT Cassin’s vireo Y (nearby records) NVT warbling vireo Y (nearby records) NVT pinyon jay Y(records in analysis area) NVT California horned lark (breeding) Y (nearby records) NVT tree swallow P (known from @Cushenbury Springs) NVT Swainson's thrush P (records @ Cushenbury Springs, Jacoby Cyn, deep NVT Creek) hermit thrush (breeding) P (migrant records @ Cushenbury Springs) NVT Bendire's thrasher P NVT LeConte's thrasher P (breeding records @Cushenbury Springs) NVT Virginia’s warbler (breeding) P (records @Cushenbury Springs) NVT yellow warbler Y@ Crystal Creek NVT MacGillivray's warbler P NVT common yellowthroat P NVT Wilson's warbler Y@ Coxey, P @ Chukar and other springs NVT Page 4

Table 1. Summary Of Effects Determinations For TESW Species In And Near the Analysis area Common Name Occurrence Information 1 Determinations 2 yellow-breasted chat P in Crystal Creek (record@ Cushenbury Springs) NVT hepatic tanager P NVT summer tanager P in Crystal Creek (record @ Cushenbury Springs) NVT Black-chinned sparrow Y NVT Lincoln's sparrow P NVT Lawrence's goldfinch P NVT western small-footed myotis Y (known from analysis area) NVT long-eared myotis Y (known from analysis area) NVT little brown myotis Y (known from analysis area) NVT long-legged myotis Y (known from analysis area) NVT Yuma myotis Y (known from analysis area) NVT spotted bat Y (known from analysis area) NVT pocketed free-tailed bat Y (known from analysis area) NVT western bonneted bat Y (known from analysis area) NVT lodgepole chipmunk Y (known from analysis area) NVT golden-mantled ground squirrel P NVT San Diego pocket mouse P NVT southern grasshopper mouse P NVT San Diego desert woodrat Y NVT Porcupine P NVT Ringtail Y NVT American badger P NVT western spotted skunk P NVT mountain lion Y NVT Nelson's bighorn sheep Y NVT SBNF Watchlist Plants Boechera dispar Known from analysis area NTV Castilleja montigena Known from analysis area NTV Eriogonum microthecum var. Known from analysis area NTV corymbosoides Frasera neglecta Known from analysis area NTV rigida Known from analysis area Syntrichopappus lemmonii Known from analysis area NTV Other Animals of Concern/Interest San Diego coast horned lizard (CDFW Y NTV SSC) Swainson’s hawk (CDFW threatened) P NTV Olive-sided flycatcher (CDFW SSC) P NTV Yellow-headed blackbird (CDFW SSC) Y NTV California -nosed bat (CDFW SSC) P NTV Western red bat (CDFW SSC) P NTV Hoary bat (CDFW SSC) P NTV Silver-haired bat (CDFW SSC) P NTV Mule deer Y NTV 1 Occurrence Codes: Y = Species is known to occur. P = Occurrence of the species is possible; suitable habitat exists and it is within the distribution of the species. H=Historic record. 2 Determination Codes: Threatened/Endangered Species: NE=No Effect; Page 5

Table 1. Summary Of Effects Determinations For TESW Species In And Near the Analysis area Common Name Occurrence Information 1 Determinations 2 NLAA = not likely to adversely affect; MA=May Affect Sensitive Species: MIIH= may impact individuals or habitat but not likely to lead to a trend to Federal listing for Sensitive species. Watchlist Species: Determinations are not made for Watch species – this is simply documentation of an occurrence. All: NTV=No threat to viability VT=Viability threat

Page 6

TABLE OF CONTENTS PART I: INTRODUCTION ...... 11 I-1.0 – METHODS ...... 11 I-2.0 – CURRENT MANAGEMENT DIRECTION ...... 13 I-3.0 – DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPOSED ACTION AND ALTERNATIVES ...... 20

PART II: EXISTING CONDITIONS AND GENERAL EFFECTS ...... 34 II-1.0 – INTRODUCTION ...... 34 II-2.0 – EXISTING ENVIRONMENT – GENERAL ...... 34 II-3.0 – EFFECTS OF PROPOSED ACTION – COMMON TO MANY SPECIES ...... 38 II-3.1 – Levels of Effect Analyses ...... 38 II-3.2 – Effects of Proposed Action – Common Effects to Plants and Wildlife ...... 40 II-3.3 – Potential Effects of No Action Alternative ...... 47 II-3.4 – Potential Effects of Alternative 3 ...... 48

PART III: BIOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT OF EFFECTS TO THREATENED, ENDANGERED, PROPOSED, AND CANDIDATE SPECIES ...... 49 III-1.0 - INTRODUCTION ...... 49 III-2.0 - CONSULTATIONS AND CONFERENCES TO DATE ...... 50 III-3.0 - BASELINE CONDITIONS AND POTENTIAL EFFECTS FOR THREATENED AND ENDANGERED SPECIES ...... 52 III-3.1 - Threatened and Endangered Plants – Proposed Action ...... 53 III-3.2 - Threatened and Endangered Plants – No Action ...... 59 III-3.3 - Threatened and Endangered Plants – Alternative 3 ...... 59 III-3.4 – Threatened and Endangered Wildlife – Proposed Action...... 59 III-3.5 - Threatened and Endangered Wildlife –No Action ...... 68 III–3.6 – Threatened and Endangered Wildlife-Alternative 3 ...... 68 III-4.0 – SUMMARY OF DETERMINATION OF EFFECTS FOR T/E SPECIES ...... 68

PART IV: BIOLOGICAL EVALUATION OF EFFECTS TO FOREST SERVICE SENSITIVE SPECIES ...... 70 IV-1.0 – INTRODUCTION ...... 70 IV-1.1 – Sensitive Plants – Proposed Action ...... 70 IV-1.2 – Sensitive Plants – No Action ...... 84 IV-1.3 – Sensitive Plants – Alternative 3 ...... 84 IV-1.4 – Sensitive Animals – Proposed Action and Alternative 3...... 84 IV-1.5 – Sensitive Animals – No Action ...... 117 IV-2.0 – SUMMARY OF DETERMINATION OF EFFECTS FOR SENSITIVE SPECIES ...... 117

PART V: WILDLIFE AND BOTANY REPORTS...... 118 V-1.0 – INTRODUCTION ...... 118 V-2.0 - SBNF WATCH LIST SPECIES ...... 118 V-2.1 – Viability Of SBNF Watch list Plants – Proposed Action ...... 118 V-2.2 - Summary of Effects to Watchlist Plants– Proposed Action ...... 122 V-2.3 – SBNF Watchlist and Other Rare Plants – No Action ...... 122 V-2.4 – SBNF Watchlist and Other Rare Plants – Alternative 3 ...... 122 V-2.5 – Viability of SBNF Watchlist Animals – Proposed Action ...... 122 V-2.6 – SBNF Watchlist Animals – Summary of Effects of No Action ...... 179 V-2.7 – SBNF Watchlist Animals – Summary of Effects of Alternative 3 ...... 179 V-2.8– Viability of Other Species of Concern – Potential Effects ...... 180 Page 7

V-2.9 – Other Animal Species of Concern – Summary of Effects of No Action ...... 188 V-2.10 – Other Animal Species of Concern – Summary of Effects of Alternative 3 ...... 188 V-3.0 –FINDINGS ...... 188

PART VI: PROJECT-LEVEL ASSESSMENT - MANAGEMENT INDICATOR SPECIES ...... 190 VI-1.0 - INTRODUCTION ...... 190 VI-2.0 - MIS SELECTED FOR PROJECT ANALYSIS ...... 190 VI-3.0 - MIS ENVIRONMENTAL BASELINE AND EFFECTS ANALYSIS ...... 190 VI-3.1 – Song Sparrow ...... 192 VI-3.2 – Mule Deer ...... 195 VI-3.3 – Mountain Lion ...... 198 VI-4.0 – SUMMARY FOR MIS ...... 201

PART VII: NON-NATIVE SPECIES RISK ASSESSMENT ...... 202 VII-1.0 – INTRODUCTION ...... 202 VII-2.0 - NON-NATIVE PLANT ASSESSMENT ...... 202 VII-3.0 - NON-NATIVE ANIMAL AND PATHOGENS ASSESSMENT ...... 206 VII-4.0 – SUMMARY OF RISK FROM NON-NATIVE SPECIES ...... 209

REFERENCES ...... 210

APPENDICES Appendix A: Floral and Faunal Compendium Appendix B: Guidelines to Reduce/Prevent Spread of Invasive Aquatic Organisms

Page 8

TABLES Table 1. Summary Of Effects Determinations For TESW Species In And Near the Analysis area ...... 3 Table 2. Alternative 1 Designation – By Route ...... 23 Table 3. Summary of Alternative 1 Designation - Totals ...... 23 Table 3. Summary Comparison of Environmental Effects to Soil and Water Resources ...... 44 Table 4. Threatened, Endangered, Proposed, and Candidate Plant Species in the Action Area ...... 54 Table 5. Threatened, Endangered, Proposed, And Candidate Wildlife Species for Analysis area ...... 60 Table 6. Summary of Determination of Effects for T/E Species for BSQ Project ...... 68 Table 7. Sensitive Plant Species - Occurrences within the Reach of Potential Effects from the Proposed Rattlesnake OHV Project ...... 71 Table 8. Region 5 Forest Service Sensitive Species – Rattlesnake Mountain OHV Trail Analysis area .. 85 Table 9. Summary of Determinations of Effects for Sensitive Species in the Analysis area ...... 117 Table 10. San Bernardino National Forest Watch Plant Species in/near the Project Area ...... 119 Table 11. San Bernardino National Forest Watchlist Animals in the Rattlesnake Analysis Area ...... 123 Table 12. Summary of Breeding for SBNF Watchlist Birds in Rattlesnake OHV Trail ...... 136 Table 13. Management Indicator Species Selection and Monitoring Information ...... 191 Table 14. Mule Deer Population Trend For DAUs Covering The SBNF1...... 196 Table 15. Mule Deer 2004 Population Estimates1 ...... 196 Table 16. Noxious and Invasive Plant Species Known from the SBNF ...... 203 Table 17. Non-Native Animals Known from the SBNF (From SBNF Forest Plan EIS 2006) ...... 207

FIGURES Figure 1. Map of Proposed Action (Alternative 1) ...... 24 Figure 2. Map of Alternative 2 (No Action) ...... 25 Figure 3. Map of Alternative 3 (Mixed Use) ...... 26 Figure 4. Riparian Conservation Areas ...... 43 Figure 5. Threatened/Endangered Plants and Designated Critical Habitat ...... 55 Figure 6. Desert Tortoise Distribution ...... 66 Figure 7. Sensitive and Watchlist Plants in the Rattlesnake OHV project area ...... 75 Figure 8. Anniella pulchra distribution ...... 98 Figure 9. Big Bear Lake Christmas Bird Count Data for Song Sparrow ...... 193 Figure 10. Song Sparrow Breeding Bird Survey Data (https://www.pwrc.usgs.gov/bbs/results/) ...... 194 Figure 11. Estimated Hunt Totals for Deer in Zone D14 ...... 197

Page 9

Acronyms and Abbreviations BA Biological Assessment for species and habitats designated under the Endangered Species Act BE Biological Evaluation for Forest Service Sensitive species BLM Bureau of Land Management BMP Best management practices BO Biological Opinion rendered by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Caltrans California Department of Transportation CDFA California Department of Food and Agriculture CDFW California Department of Fish and Wildlife (formerly Cal. Dept. Fish and Game) CEQ Council on Environmental Quality CFR Code of Federal Regulations CNDDB California natural diversity database CNPS California native plant society DAU Deer assessment unit DBH Diameter at breast height E Endangered species (listed under the Endangered Species Act) EIS Environmental impact statement FSH Forest service handbook FSM Forest service manual GIS Geographic information system GPS Global positioning system HRC Home Range Core for California spotted owl LMP San Bernardino National Forest Land Management Plan (2006) LOP Limited operating period MIS Management indicator species NFS National Forest System NFTS National Forest Transportation System NRCS Natural resource conservation service NRIS Natural resource inventory system NS Nest Stand for California spotted owl P Proposed – species proposed for listing under the Endangered Species Act PAC Protected activity center for California spotted owl RCA Riparian conservation area S Forest Service Sensitive species SBCM San Bernardino County Museum SBNF San Bernardino National Forest SCE Southern California Edison SSC California Department of Fish and Wildlife “Species of Special Concern” T Threatened species (listed under the Endangered Species Act) USFS U.S. Forest Service USFWS U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service USGS U.S. Geological Survey W Watchlist species

Page 10

PART I: INTRODUCTION

This document contains analysis of potential effects to plants and animals from the proposed Rattlesnake OHV trail. It has six parts:  Part I is an introduction with the project description, methods, and management direction.  Part II describes the existing environment in the analysis area and addresses general potential effects to species and habitats in the analysis area. Subsequent sections of this document may refer to the general effects discussion in Part II.  Part III is a Biological Assessment (BA) of potential effects to federally-listed Threatened (T), Endangered (E), Proposed (P), and Candidate (C) plant and animal species and Critical Habitat.  Part IV is a Biological Evaluation (BE) of potential effects to species that are on the Regional Forester’s Sensitive (S) species list.  Part V contains the Botany and Wildlife Reports that address viability of SBNF Watchlist species, other rare species, and other species of special interest.  Part VI addresses wildlife species that are designated as Management Indicator Species (MIS) in the San Bernardino National Forest Land Management Plan (LMP) (Forest Service 2006).  Part VII is a Non-Native Species Risk Assessment.

These reports are required for all Forest Service funded, executed, authorized, or permitted programs and activities.

I-1.0 – METHODS Species Considered and Species Accounts: Each chapter of this report contains the current list of special status species considered during the surveys and in the analysis of potential effects. Only those species with known occurrences or considered to have a high likelihood of occurrence in the analysis area are discussed in depth in this analysis. Scientific nomenclature and common names for species referred to in this report follow those used in the San Bernardino National Forest (SBNF) Land Management Plan (Forest Plan).

Species Accounts for the current SBNF Threatened, Endangered, Proposed, Candidate, Sensitive and Watch (TEPCSW) lists are contained in the SBNF Forest Plan, and are periodically updated and on file at the SBNF. These species accounts include information on status of populations and habitat, natural history, risks, conservation considerations, and viability analyses. These species accounts are incorporated by reference into this analysis and are generally not repeated in full. Where available, species account information is updated in the species-specific discussions.

Pre-Field Reviews: Pre-field reviews were conducted to determine which species are known from the area or have suitable habitat present and could potentially occur. Data regarding biological resources on the analysis area were obtained through literature review, existing reports, and field investigations. Sources reviewed include California Natural Diversity Data Base (CNDDB 2013), California Native Plant Society (CNPS 2013), California Consortium of Herbaria (CCH 2013), SBNF and USFS NRIS occurrence database, results from previous

Page 11

species-specific surveys in the area, field guides and other project-related analyses. Bird observations from E-Bird and Rare Bird Alerts have also been incorporated.

In addition, data from project-related surveys and analyses done near the analysis area in the past 10-15 years (e.g., restoration project surveys, engineering project surveys, small mammal and herptile studies, etc.) were also considered in this analysis.

Botanical Surveys and Survey Limitations: Field surveys for botanical resources were conducted over 13 field days in 2014: 3/25, 4/3, 4/8, 4/9, 4/10, 4/22, 5/19, 5/20, 5/22, 6/3, 6/5, 6/9, and 6/13 by Forest Service botanists Mary Crawford, Adrienne Simmons, Emma Williams, and Scott Eliason.

Botany surveys focused on areas within 200 feet of proposed OHV routes, and extended outside this buffer distance in limited instances.

Botanical field studies focused on two of primary objectives: focused rare plant surveys and focused invasive species surveys. Observations of all plant species observed were recorded (Appendix A).

58 new rare plant occurrences were documented within the project area during 2014 focused surveys. A total of 233 rare plant occurrences are known from within the project area (including 2014 detections). Of those occurrences, 201 have been revisited and/or documented within the past 5 years. 136 occurrences were documented within the project area in 2012 as part of the Coxey Restoration project.

Botanical surveys were performed at times of year when target plant species would be detectable. All focal species that could occur in the analysis area had moderate to high detectability during surveys, based on nearby reference populations. 2014 was a drought year, and it is likely that documented occurrences of rare and invasive species would have been more extensive (in numbers of individuals and complete spatial extent) in an average to wetter year. However, based on the condition of reference populations, the likelihood of failing to detect these species in areas surveyed is considered to be low.

Wildlife Surveys and Survey Limitations: Sensitive biological resources present, or potentially present were identified through a literature review using CNDDB and SBNF project and GIS records. Surveys in and near the analysis area were conducted May, June, and July 2014 by Forest Service biologists David Austin and Drew Farr. Additional surveys, including small mammal trapping, were conducted in summer 2015 by Forest Service biologists Drew Farr, Kelsey Retich, and Eric Janasov.

Wildlife species detected during field surveys by sight, calls, tracks, scat, or other sign were recorded. In addition to species actually observed, expected wildlife usage of the area was determined according to known habitat preferences of wildlife species and knowledge of their relative distributions in the area.

The focus of the faunal species surveys was to identify habitat suitability for special-status wildlife within the analysis area in order to predict those species with a higher probability of

Page 12

occurrence in the analysis area. Because a species was not detected does not mean that the species does not occur in the analysis area. Surveys or wildlife species have the inherent limitation that absence is difficult or impossible to determine. This is especially true for wildlife species with a nocturnal pattern of activity or otherwise difficult to detect.

In conjunction with the USFWS, the SBNF modeled habitat for T/E species in 1999–2000. Modeled habitat is considered suitable for unless site-specific evaluations determine that it is not suitable for the target species. Modeled habitat in the analysis area was assessed for suitability. Drought conditions were taken into consideration during these surveys.

I-2.0 – CURRENT MANAGEMENT DIRECTION Applicable requirements and direction may be found in the SBNF Forest Plan, Endangered Species Act, National Forest Management Act, Department of Agriculture 9500-4 Regulations, Forest Service Manual, and the Southern California Conservation Strategy. The following is a summary of relevant jurisdictions, legal requirements, and management direction for wildlife and plant resources.

I-2.1 Forest Plan Direction The Forest Plan includes forest goals and desired conditions for resources, strategic management direction, and guidance for designing actions and activities (Design Features) during project planning. Applicable Forest Plan direction has been incorporated into the project design.

The Forest Plan includes several goals applicable to this project: Goal 5.1 - Improve watershed conditions through cooperative management. The desired condition is that national forest watersheds are healthy, dynamic and resilient, and are capable of responding to natural and human caused disturbances while maintaining the integrity of their biological and physical processes.

Watersheds, streams, groundwater recharge areas, springs, wetlands and aquifers are managed to assure the sustainability of high quantity and quality water. Where new or re- authorized water extraction or diversion is allowed, those facilities should be located to avoid long-term adverse impacts to national forest water and riparian resources. The Forest Service has acquired and maintains water rights where necessary to support resource management and healthy forest conditions. Forest management activities are planned and implemented in a manner that minimizes the risk to forest ecosystems from hazardous materials.

Additional desired conditions are that geologic resources are managed to protect, preserve and interpret unique resources and values, and to improve management of activities that affect watershed condition and ecosystem health. Geologic hazards are identified, analyzed and managed to reduce risks and impacts where there is a threat to human life, natural resources, or financial investment.

Goal 6.2 - Provide ecological conditions to sustain viable populations of native and desired nonnative species. The desired condition is that habitats for federally listed species are conserved, and listed species are recovered or are moving toward recovery. Habitats for

Page 13

sensitive species and other species of concern are managed to prevent downward trends in populations or habitat capability, and to prevent federal listing. Flow regimes in streams that provide habitat for threatened, endangered, proposed, candidate, and/or sensitive aquatic and riparian-dependent species are sufficient to allow the species to persist and complete all phases of their life cycles.

Habitat conditions sustain healthy populations of native and desired nonnative fish and game species. Wildlife habitat functions are maintained or improved, including primary feeding areas, winter ranges, breeding areas, birthing areas, rearing areas, migration corridors, and landscape linkages.

I-2.2 Forest Service Manual The Forest Service Manual contains direction for management of National Forest System lands. See the Manual for detailed direction. Some of the most relevant direction for the wildlife, botany, and non-native species risk assessments is summarized here.

Forest Service Manual Direction for Threatened, Endangered, Candidate, and Proposed Species Departmental regulation 9500-004 directs Department agencies to: 1. Conduct activities and programs “to assist in the identification and recovery of threatened and endangered plant and animal species.” 2. Avoid actions “which may cause a species to become threatened or endangered.” 3. Consult “as necessary with the Departments of the Interior and/or Commerce on activities that may affect threatened and endangered species.” 4. Not “approve, fund or take any action that is likely to jeopardize the continued existence of threatened and endangered species or destroy any habitat necessary for their conservation unless exemption is granted pursuant to subsection 7(h) of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended.”

Forest Service Manual Direction for Regional Forester’s Sensitive Species and Other Species of Special Concern Departmental regulation 9500-004 provides the following direction to Department agencies: 1. Assure that the values of fish and wildlife are recognized, and that their habitats, both terrestrial and aquatic, including wetlands, are recognized and enhanced where possible as the Department carries out its overall missions. 2. Consider fish and wildlife and their habitats in developing programs for these lands. Alternatives that maintain or enhance fish and wildlife habitat should be promoted. When compatible with objectives for the area, management alternatives that improve habitat will be selected. 3. Balance the competing uses for habitat supporting fish and wildlife through strong, clear policies, relevant programs, and effective actions to sustain and enhance fish and wildlife in desired locations and numbers. 4. Recognize that fish and wildlife have inherent values as components and indicators of healthy ecosystems, and that they often demonstrate how altered environments may affect changes in quality of life for humans.

Page 14

Forest Service Manual Direction for Invasive Species Forest Service Manual direction for Invasive Species Management is contained in a new manual section, FSM 2900, effective December 5, 2011. This direction sets forth National Forest System policy, responsibilities, and direction for the prevention, detection, control, and restoration of effects from aquatic and terrestrial invasive species (including vertebrates, invertebrates, plants, and pathogens). Some of the policy direction found in FSM 2900 is excerpted below: a. Initiate, coordinate, and sustain actions to prevent, control, and eliminate priority infestations of invasive species in aquatic and terrestrial areas of the National Forest System using an integrated pest management approach, and collaborate with stakeholders to implement cooperative invasive species management activities in accordance with law and policy. b. When applicable, invasive species management actions and standards should be incorporated into resource management plans at the forest level, and in programmatic environmental planning and assessment documents at the regional or national levels. c. Determine the vectors, environmental factors, and pathways that favor the establishment and spread of invasive species in aquatic and terrestrial areas the National Forest System, and design management practices to reduce or mitigate the risk for introduction or spread of invasive species in those areas. d. Determine the risk of introducing, establishing, or spreading invasive species associated with any proposed action, as an integral component of project planning and analysis, and where necessary provide for alternatives or mitigation measures to reduce or eliminate that risk prior to project approval. e. Ensure that all Forest Service management activities are designed to minimize or eliminate the possibility of establishment or spread of invasive species on the National Forest System, or to adjacent areas. Integrate visitor use strategies with invasive species management activities on aquatic and terrestrial areas of the National Forest System. At no time are invasive species to be promoted or used in site restoration or re-vegetation work, watershed rehabilitation projects, planted for bio-fuels production, or other management activities on national forests and grasslands. f. Use contract and permit clauses to require that the activities of contractors and permittees are conducted to prevent and control the introduction, establishment, and spread of aquatic and terrestrial invasive species. For example, where determined to be appropriate, use agreement clauses to require contractors or permittees to meet Forest Service-approved vehicle and equipment cleaning requirements/standards prior to using the vehicle or equipment in the National Forest System. g. Make every effort to prevent the accidental spread of invasive species carried by contaminated vehicles, equipment, personnel, or materials (including plants, wood, plant/wood products, water, soil, rock, sand, gravel, mulch, seeds, grain, hay, straw, or other materials).  Establish and implement standards and requirements for vehicle and equipment cleaning to prevent the accidental spread of aquatic and terrestrial invasive species on the National Forest System or to adjacent areas.  Make every effort to ensure that all materials used on the National Forest System are free of invasive species and/or noxious weeds (including free of reproductive/propagative material such as seeds, roots, stems, flowers, , larva, eggs, veligers, and so forth).

Page 15

8. Where States have legislative authority to certify materials as weed-free (or invasive-free) and have an active State program to make those State-certified materials available to the public, forest officers shall develop rules restricting the possession, use, and transport of those materials unless proof exists that they have been State-certified as weed-free (or invasive-free), as provided in 36 CFR 261 and Departmental Regulation 1512-1. 9. Monitor all management activities for potential spread or establishment of invasive species in aquatic and terrestrial areas of the National Forest System. 10. Manage invasive species in aquatic and terrestrial areas of the National Forest System using an integrated pest management approach to achieve the goals and objectives identified in Forest Land and Resource Management plans, and other Forest Service planning documents, and other plans developed in cooperation with external partners for the management of natural or cultural resources. 11. Integrate invasive species management funding broadly across a variety of National Forest System programs, while associating the funding with the specific aquatic or terrestrial invasive species that is being prioritized for management, as well as the purpose and need of the project or program objective. 12. Develop and utilize site-based and species-based risk assessments to prioritize the management of invasive species infestations in aquatic and terrestrial areas of the National Forest System. Where appropriate, use a structured decision-making process and adaptive management or similar strategies to help identify and prioritize invasive species management approaches and actions. 13. Comply with the Forest Service performance accountability system requirements for invasive species management to ensure efficient use of limited resources at all levels of the Agency and to provide information for adapting management actions to meet changing program needs and priorities. When appropriate, utilize a structured decision making process to address invasive species management problems in changing conditions, uncertainty, or when information is limited. 14. Establish and maintain a national record keeping database system for the collection and reporting of information related to invasive species infestations and management activities, including invasive species management performance, associated with the National Forest System. Require all information associated with the National Forest System invasive species management (including inventories, surveys, and treatments) to be collected, recorded, and reported consistent with national program protocols, rules, and standards. 15. Where appropriate, integrate invasive species management activities, such as inventory, survey, treatment, prevention, monitoring, and so forth, into the National Forest System management programs. Use inventory and treatment information to help set priorities and select integrated management actions to address new or expanding invasive species infestations in aquatic and terrestrial areas of the National Forest System. 16. Assist and promote cooperative efforts with internal and external partners, including private, State, tribal, and local entities, research organizations, and international groups to collaboratively address priority invasive species issues affecting the National Forest System. 17. Coordinate as needed with Forest Service Research and Development and State and Private Forestry programs, other agencies included under the National Invasive Species Council, and external partners to identify priority/high-risk invasive species that threaten aquatic and terrestrial areas of the National Forest System. Encourage applied research to develop

Page 16

techniques and technology to reduce invasive species impacts to the National Forest System. 18. As appropriate, collaborate and coordinate with adjacent landowners and other stakeholders to improve invasive species management effectiveness across the landscape. Encourage cooperative partnerships to address invasive species threats within a broad geographical area.

I-2.3 National Forest Management Act The National Forest Management Act of 1976 and its implementing regulations (CFR 219) state that: fish and wildlife habitat shall be managed to maintain viable populations of existing native and desired non-native vertebrate species in the planning area (Sec 219.19)”. Sec 219.19 also calls for the use of management indicator species to indicate the effects of management activities. In addition, the Secretary of Agriculture's policy on fish and wildlife (Department Regulation 9500-4) directs the Forest Service to avoid actions "which may cause a species to become threatened or endangered".

I-2.4 Federal Endangered Species Act Pursuant to Section 7 of the Federal Endangered Species Act (ESA), any federal agency undertaking a federal action that may affect a species listed or proposed as threatened or endangered under the ESA must consult with USFWS. In addition, any federal agency undertaking a federal action that may result in adverse modification of Critical Habitat for a federally-listed species must consult with USFWS.

The Endangered Species Act contains protection for all species federally-listed as endangered or threatened:  Federal agencies shall seek to conserve endangered species and threatened species and shall, in consultation with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, utilize their authorities in furthering the purposes of the Endangered Species Act by carrying out programs for the conservation of endangered and threatened species.  Regulations for species that are proposed for listing as endangered or threatened are included in the Endangered Species Act  Federal agencies shall confer with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service on any agency action that is likely to jeopardize the continued existence of any species proposed to be listed.

I-2.5 Migratory Bird Treaty Act In late 2008, a Memorandum of Understanding between the USDA Forest Service and the US Fish and Wildlife Service to Promote the Conservation of Migratory Birds (MOU) was signed. The intent of the MOU is to strengthen migratory bird conservation through enhanced collaboration and cooperation between the Forest Service and the Fish and Wildlife Service as well as other federal, state, tribal and local governments. Within the National Forests, conservation of migratory birds focuses on providing a diversity of habitat conditions at multiple spatial scales and ensuring that bird conservation is addressed when planning for land management activities. The MOU covers implementation of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) of 1918 (50 C.F.R. Section 10.13) and the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act of 1940 (16 U.S.C. 668-668d).

Page 17

Under the National Forest Management Act (NFMA), the Forest Service is directed to “provide for diversity of plant and animal communities based on the suitability and capability of the specific land area in order to meet overall multiple-use objectives.” (P.L. 94-588, Sec 6 (g) (3) (B)). The January 2000 USDA Forest Service (FS) Landbird Conservation Strategic Plan, followed by Executive Order 13186 in 2001, in addition to the Partners in Flight (PIF) specific habitat Conservation Plans for birds and the January 2004 PIF North American Landbird Conservation Plan all reference goals and objectives for integrating bird conservation into forest management and planning.

The Migratory Bird Executive Order (Jan, 11, 2001) and the 2008 Memorandum of Understanding between the Forest Service and USFWS provide further direction, as follows:

Within the NEPA process, the Forest Service will evaluate the effects of agency actions on migratory birds, focusing first on species management concern along with their priority habitats and key risk factors.

To the extent practicable: b) Evaluate and balance long-term benefits of projects against any short- or long-term adverse effects when analyzing, disclosing, and mitigating the effects of actions. c) Pursue opportunities to restore or enhance the composition, structure, and juxtaposition of migratory bird habitats in the project area. d) Consider approaches, to the extent practicable, for identifying and minimizing take that is incidental to otherwise lawful activities, including such approaches as:  Altering the season of activities to minimize disturbances during the breeding season;  Retaining snags for nesting structures where snags are under-represented;  Retaining the integrity of breeding sites, especially those with long histories of use; and,  Giving due consideration to key wintering areas, migration routes, and stop-overs.

The Riparian BCP (CALPif 2004) includes conservation recommendations to 1) protect and restore riparian areas with intact adjacent uplands; ensure patch size, configuration and connectivity of riparian habitats; and restore and manage riparian forests to promote structural diversity and volume of the understory. The proposed action includes the use of riparian stream management zones, no-treat buffers and BMPs to ensure the continued health of the riparian habitat. Over the long term, treatments in the uplands should reduce the risk of stand-replacing fire, and loss of riparian vegetation.

The Coniferous Forest BCP (CALPif 2002) identifies problems as 1) loss of old-growth forests; 2) fire suppression, 3) fragmentation, and 4) elimination of snags. Fire suppression has resulted in decreased structural diversity, often producing a dense homogeneous forest with closed canopy and little shrub cover. Birds that use open forests and shrub understories are declining. The proposed action will open up stands and result in increased shrub understory.

Page 18

I-2.6 Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Laws There are several documents that contain guidelines and legal direction for management of bald and golden eagle populations.

Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act: The Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act (16 U.S.C. 668-668c), enacted in 1940, and amended several times since then, prohibits anyone, without a permit issued by the Secretary of the Interior, from “taking” bald eagles, including their parts, nests, or eggs. The Act provides criminal and civil penalties for persons who “take, possess, sell, purchase, barter, offer to sell, purchase or barter, transport, export or import, at any time or any manner, any bald eagle ... [or any golden eagle], alive or dead, or any part, nest, or egg thereof.” The Act defines “take” as “pursue, shoot, shoot at, poison, wound, kill, capture, trap, collect, molest or disturb.”

“Disturb’’ means: "Disturb means to agitate or bother a bald or golden eagle to a degree that causes, or is likely to cause, based on the best scientific information available, 1) injury to an eagle, 2) a decrease in its productivity, by substantially interfering with normal breeding, feeding, or sheltering behavior, or 3) nest abandonment, by substantially interfering with normal breeding, feeding, or sheltering behavior."

In addition to immediate effects, this definition also covers effects that result from human- induced alterations initiated around a previously used nest site during a time when eagles are not present, if, upon the eagle’s return, such alterations agitate or bother an eagle to a degree that injures an eagle or substantially interferes with normal breeding, feeding, or sheltering habits and causes, or is likely to cause, a loss of productivity or nest abandonment.

After the de-listing of bald eagles, USFWS finalized permit regulations to authorize limited take of bald eagles in 2009 (FR74, 175) under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act.

I-2.7 California State Laws Pursuant to Section 1600 et seq. of the Fish and Game Code, the CDFW may require a Lake or Streambed Alteration Agreement prior to any activity that will substantially divert or obstruct the natural flow or substantially change the bed, channel, or bank of a river, stream or lake, or use material from a streambed. CDFW defines a "stream" (including creeks and rivers) as "a body of water that flows at least periodically or intermittently through a bed or channel having banks and supports fish or other aquatic life. This includes watercourses having surface or subsurface flow that supports or has supported riparian vegetation." CDFW's definition of "lake" includes "natural lakes or man-made reservoirs."

In addition to the bed and banks of a stream, CDFW jurisdiction includes riparian or wetland vegetation associated with a stream. CDFW’s issuance of a Lake or Streambed Alteration Agreement for a project that is subject to CEQA will require California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) compliance actions by CDFW as a responsible agency. CDFW as a responsible agency under CEQA may consider the lead agency’s Negative Declaration or Environmental Impact Report for the project. Federal projects on federal land (such as a Forest Service Project

Page 19

on Forest Service land) do not require the Lake or Streambed Alteration Agreement. However, a Lake or Streambed Alteration Agreement may be required of a non-federal participant for projects on federal land carried out or funded by the non-federal participant.

Pursuant to Section 2080 et seq. of the Fish and Game Code, a California Endangered Species Act (CESA) permit must be obtained to authorize incidental “take” of plants or animals listed under CESA. Revisions to the Fish and Game Code, effective January 1998, may require that the Department issue a separate CEQA document for the issuance of a 2081 permit unless the project CEQA document addresses all project impacts to listed species and specifies a mitigation monitoring and reporting program that will meet the requirements of a 2081 permit. Please note that federal projects on federal land (such as a Forest Service Project on Forest Service land) do not require the 2081 incidental take permit. However, an incidental take permit may be required of a non-federal participant for projects on federal land carried out or funded by the non-federal participant.

Sections 3503, 3503.5 and 3513 of the California Fish and Game Code prohibit take of all birds and their active nests including raptors and other migratory non-game birds (as listed under the Federal MBTA).

I-3.0 – DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPOSED ACTION AND ALTERNATIVES I-3.1 Proposed Action Description The following route designations constitute the Proposed Action. The order, as presented, is generally from northwest to southeast. Route numbers and trail names would be assigned as part of implementation if Alternative 1 or 3 is selected. Visitors who enjoy these trails are invited to submit suggested names.

1. 3N14 to JF3221M connector: Designate an existing unauthorized route (UR) approximately 0.1 miles long as a 24” system trail that connects Coxey Road (3N14) to a BLM 24” trail (JF3221M). This trail would improve connection between motorcycle riding opportunities on the SBNF with opportunities on BLM land in the Juniper Flat area. It also completes loop ride opportunities from existing trails. The trail would be brought up to standard and equipped with a 24” restrictor gate at the intersection with 3N14. This route would be open to street legal and green sticker motorcycles.

2. 3N14 to 3N59 connector: Designate an existing unauthorized route approximately 1.4 miles long as a 24” system trail that connects Carbine Flat Road (3N59) with Coxey Road (3N14). This trail would provide motorcycle riders an alternative to travelling sections of 3N59 and 3N14, adding to the diversity of riding opportunities in the area, and providing new loop ride opportunities. Designation of this trail would require rezoning 9.1 acres of Back Country Non- motorized to Back Country under a project level Forest Plan Amendment. The trail would be brought up to standard and equipped with 24” restrictor gates at intersections with 3N14 and 3N54. This route would be open to street legal and green sticker motorcycles.

3. Horse Springs Campground to JF3221 connector: Designate a 1.7 mile 24” trail from the Horse Springs Campground Road (4N16A) to BLM Route JF3221. This trail would provide a new loop ride opportunity and improve connection between Horse Springs campground and

Page 20

BLM land to the north. Designation of this trail would require rezoning 75.9 acres of Back Country Non-motorized to Back Country under a project level Forest Plan Amendment. The first 0.1 miles of this route from 4N16A would be new construction to avoid having the trail pass through the campground itself. The remaining 1.6 miles of unauthorized route would be designated and brought up to standard, and equipped with restrictor gates at 4N16A and JF3221. This route would be open to street legal and green sticker motorcycles.

4. Mixed Use designation for Horse Springs Road (4N16A): Designate all 1.1 miles of 4N16, from 4N16 to and including the Horse Springs Campground loops as mixed use. This would provide access for all authorized vehicles (street legal and OHV) to Horse Springs Campground, and along with the JF3221 connector this completes a loop opportunity for motorcycle riders. This designation also involves reducing the maintenance level of the road from level 3 (maintained for passenger vehicles) to level 2 (maintained for high clearance vehicles). Implementation for this route would involve updating maps and signage.

In the process of planning this project, minor errors in the Forest Plan land use zone mapping was identified where the 400-foot wide corridor of Back Country Motorized zone for 4N16A and Horse Springs Campground were not properly centered on the actual road and Campground as intended. Additional Backcountry Motorized alignment errors within the Project Area along 3N17 and 3N17A were also identified. These mapping errors have been corrected by shifting the corridors to be properly centered on their respective roads. These corrections were not an element of this Proposed Action, nor did they constitute a Plan Amendment.

5. 4N16 to 3N17 Connector: Designate a 0.7 mile 24” trail from Grapevine Canyon Road (4N16) to White Mountain Road (3N17). This trail would provide a new loop ride opportunity and a new riding opportunity. Designation of this trail would require rezoning 26.3 acres of Back Country Non-motorized to Back Country Motorized under a project level Forest Plan Amendment. The middle 0.4 miles of this route would be new construction to remove the trail from an intermittent stream course. The existing unauthorized route section through the stream course would be restored. The remaining 0.3 miles of unauthorized route would be designated and brought up to standard, and equipped with restrictor gates at 4N16 and 3N17. This route would be open to street legal and green sticker motorcycles.

6. 3N17 to 4N16 Connector: Designate a 1.5 mile 24” trail from White Mountain Road (3N17) to Grapevine Canyon Road (4N16). This trail would provide a new ride opportunity and build on loop ride opportunities with other trails under the Proposed Action. The middle 0.5 miles of this route would utilize and bring up to standard an existing unauthorized route, about 0.9 miles would involve trail reconstruction following the alignment of pre-existing /historic routes that have since naturally revegetated, with a very short (less than 0.1 mi) of new construction to complete the connection. The trail would be equipped with restrictor gates at 4N16 and 3N17. This route would be open to street legal and green sticker motorcycles.

7. Redonda Ridge Trail Extension: Extend the 50” Redonda Ridge Trail 1.1 miles from its current terminus at Wright Mine Road (3N11) north to White Mountain Road (3N17). The southern 0.7 miles would involve trail reconstruction following the alignment of the former 3N11C, which was decommissioned in 1999 and has since naturally revegetated. The northern

Page 21

0.4 miles would be new construction. The trail would be equipped with restrictor gates at 3N11 and 3N17, and would be open to street legal vehicles and authorized OHVs 50” or less.

8. 3N92 Extension: Extend road 3N92 by 0.1 miles to existing road terminus. The westernmost approximately 0.1 mile of 3N92 as currently used follows the alignment of the decommissioned former 3N92A. The Proposed Action includes extending 3N92 to correspond with existing use, and the extension would be collocated with the existing Redonda Ridge Trail (1W17). 3N92 would be open for its whole length to street legal vehicles and authorized OHV.

9. 3N14 Mixed Use: Add mixed use designation to 0.3 miles of Coxey Road (3N14), from the junction with Holcomb Valley Road (3N16) the junction with the Redonda Ridge Trail (1W17). This would provide access for all authorized vehicles (street legal and OHV) between 3N16 and 1W17. Implementation for this route designation would involve updating maps and signage.

10. Big Pine Flat Campground Mixed Use: Add mixed use designation to approximately 0.1 mile of the Big Pine Flat Campground Road (3N14F) and associated campground loops. This would provide access for all authorized vehicles (street legal and OHV) to Big Pine Flat Campground. The portion of 3N14F beyond the campground itself is not proposed for mixed use. Implementation for this route designation would involve updating maps and signage.

11. Designate Parking/Trailering site at Big Pine Flat: Designate an area (approximately 1 acre) on the north side of Holcomb Valley Road (3N16) between Coxey Road (3N14) and Wright Mine Road (3N11) as a parking and trailering site. The site would be about 400 feet long, spanning the distance between 3N11 and 3N14, varying in width, and not extending north of an existing fence line that runs 100-200 feet roughly parallel to 3N16 between 3N11 and 3N14.

This site is currently used as a parking and trailering site but this use is not authorized or managed. Details would be subject to specific-site design, but the preliminary concept is for a one-way pull through site that can accommodate long trailers, entering from 3N11 and exiting to 3N14. Parking and unloading areas would be defined, but the site is not proposed to serve as a full OHV staging area. The layout would utilize the existing disturbed surface and protect groups of trees and other vegetation to the extent possible. Post and cable fencing, signage, and/or site restoration of existing disturbed surfaces would be used to clearly define the area, and amenities including picnic tables, an informational kiosk, and a portable or permanent restroom facility may be provided and maintained subject to available funding.

Table 2 and Table 3 summarize the details of the proposed action. Figure 1 shows the proposed action trail network on the landscape.

Page 22

Table 2. Alternative 1 Designation – By Route Trail/Route Proposal Width Length (miles) Rezone (inches) (acres) 3N14 to JF3221M Designate UR 24 0.1 0 3N14 to 3N54 Designate UR 24 1.4 9.1 HSCG to JF3221 New Constr. 24 0.1 75.9 Designate UR 24 1.6 4N16A Mixed Use Designate Mixed Use (road) 1.1 0 4N16 to 3N17 New Construction 24 0.4 26.3 Designate UR 0.3 3N17 to 4N16 New Construction 24 0.1 0 Reconstruction 0.9 Designate UR 0.5 3N11 to 3N17 New Construction 50 0.4 0 Reconstruction 0.7 3N92 Designate UR (road) 0.1 0 3N14 Mixed Use Designate Mixed Use (road) 0.3 0 3N14F Mixed Use Designate Mixed Use (road) 0.1 0 Parking/Trailering site Designate Parking Area n/a n/a 0 Total: 8.1 111.3

Table 3. Summary of Alternative 1 Designation - Totals Proposal Total Miles Designate UR 4.0 New Construction 1.0 Reconstruction 1.6 Add Mixed Use 1.5 Total 8.1

Alternative 2 – No Action Under the No Action alternative, current management plans would continue to guide management of the Project Area (Figure 2). OHV travel would continue on designated routes within the Project Area. No new trail construction, designation of unauthorized routes, mixed use designation, or designation of a parking/trailering site would be implemented under this project. No rezoning from Back Country Non-Motorized to Back Country Motorized would occur and the Forest Plan would not be amended as described. Unauthorized routes may still be subject to closure and restoration to prevent and mitigate resource damage, subject to site specific review and available funding.

Alternative 3 - Mixed Use This alternative incorporates all actions described in the Proposed Action, and also would add mixed use to 4.9 miles of Forest Road 3N14 (Figure 3). 3N14 is currently open only to highway-legal vehicles. Adding mixed use would allow authorized OHV (e.g. green sticker) travel, providing a non-technical OHV connection between the Horse Springs and Rattlesnake Mountain area, and Big Pine Flat. In addition, the full 9.0 mile extent of 3N14 within the Project Area, from the Junction with Holcomb Valley Road (3N16) at Big Pine Flat northwest to the Forest Boundary, would be reduced from Maintenance Level 3 to Level 2. This means that the

Page 23

Figure 1. Map of Proposed Action (Alternative 1)

Page 24

Figure 2. Map of Alternative 2 (No Action)

Page 25

Figure 3. Map of Alternative 3 (Mixed Use)

Page 26

road would be managed and maintained for high-clearance vehicles, not standard passenger vehicles as it is currently.

I-3.2 Project Design Features Design Features were developed to avoid and minimize some of the potential impacts of the Proposed Action and Alternative 3. These Design Features are an integral part of the proposed action, and would apply to either of the action alternatives.

Soils and Hydrology Design Features Current Forest Service policy directs compliance with required Clean Water Act permits and State regulations and requires the use of Best Management Practices (BMP) to control nonpoint source pollution to meet applicable water quality standards and other Clean Water Act requirements. The Forest Service has a long history of working with States and other partners to carry out BMP programs, including agreements with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and State of California to use and monitor BMPs (USDA FS 2011). The following BMPs are associated with this project: National Best Management Practices for Water Quality Management on National Forest System Lands (USDA FS 2012).  Rec-4 - Motorized and Non-Motorized Trails; and  Road-9 - Parking and Staging Areas Southwest Region (Region 5) Soil and Water Conservation Handbook: Chapter 10 – Water Quality Management Handbook (USDA FS 2011).  BMP 2.10 - Parking and Staging Areas;  BMP 2.13- Erosion Control Plan;  BMP 4.7 - BMPs for Off-Highway Vehicle Facilities and Use (BMPs 4.7.1 to 4.7.9);  BMP 7.3 - Protection of Wetlands

San Bernardino National Forest (Region 5) Soil and Water Conservation Practices Handbook: Chapter 3 – Description of Management Techniques for Riparian Conservation Areas (USDA FS 2005d).  Section 3.21 - Stream Protection Measures General to All Management Activities;  Section 3.29 - Administration of Recreation Uses and Special Designation Areas

Additional mitigation measures that would reduce or eliminate effects of the proposed action include:  Installation of latching trash receptacles at the parking area near Big Pine Flat campground;  Application of appropriately sized ground cover, e.g., gravel, chips, cobble, etc., over the parking area near Big Pine Flat campground at a depth sufficient to prevent soil and surface runoff from reaching FS 3N14;  Installation of fence around the perimeter of Horse Spring and Chukar Spring capable of excluding off-road vehicles operating within these sensitive wetland and riparian areas; and  Restoring hydrologic and soil function on unauthorized routes being rehabilitated utilizing erosion control and other methods including, but not limited to the following: o Waterbars at specified intervals beginning from the top of the contributing area to just prior to the stream crossing. Utilize energy dissipation, e.g., cobble, etc., as needed at the waterbar outlet if inadequate vegetation buffer exists; Page 27

o Recontouring and filling in rills and gullies with adjacent soil. Smooth the area, seed and/or plant, and cover with slash; o Install access barriers using material such as felled trees, logs, slash, fencing, vertical mulch, or other material making detection of and entrance to the unauthorized trail difficult. o Cover unauthorized trails with adequate sized ground cover over 70 percent of the area or that which matches natural background conditions. Adequate ground cover is described as material in contact with the soil that consists of living plants, slash, litter, duff mat and rock fragments that are of sufficient size (≥ ¾ inch in diameter) to break the impact of raindrops and serve as a filter media for overland flow.

An Erosion Control Plan would be developed separately that is site-specific to this project. The objective of an Erosion Control Plan (ECP) is to effectively limit and mitigate erosion and sedimentation from any ground-disturbing activity beginning with project pre-planning through implementation and completion. Short-term mitigation measures to prevent erosion and sedimentation are described in detail in the ECP and are based on site-specific surveys, conditions, and characteristics. Prior to the start of field operations, the ECP shall be reviewed and recommended by the Forest Hydrologist and approved by the District Ranger. The ECP is kept on site during project activity and made available for review upon request of a representative of the California State Water Resources Control Board or any local storm water management agency that may receive storm water discharge resulting from this project. Wildlife and Botanical Resources Design Features General Design Features (GEN) Coordination GEN-C-1. Project personnel will be provided training on rare animals, rare plants, and weeds within analysis areas and provided direction for what to do if those species are encountered (including notification of a Forest Service biologist). GEN-C-2. Observations of any sensitive species or their diagnostic signs during project activities will be conveyed to the project supervisor the day observed. The project supervisor will convey this information to the project biologist or designee within 24 hours of the observation.

Vegetation Removal/Trimming GEN-V-1. Trees marked with a wildlife tag or white paint will not be felled without prior approval from a FS Wildlife Biologist.

Protection of Trees GEN-TP-1. Trails will be laid out so as to protect existing trees as much as possible. GEN-TP-2. Trails will be laid out outside the dripline of trees as much as possible to minimize impacts of compaction and risk of damage to tree trunks. GEN-TP-3. Equipment, supplies, materials, and soil/gravel, etc. will not be stored up against living trees.

Non-Native Invasive Species GEN-ISP-1. Pursuant to FSM Section 2900 guidelines for weed control, all equipment will arrive to the SBNF clean and free of any mud and debris. If the equipment is Page 28

operated within areas known to be infested with non-native invasive species, equipment should also be cleaned prior to moving to other areas without these species and/or demobilizing from the project area. In any project-related contracts, include provisions that require equipment cleaning. GEN-ISP-2. Where available, mulches will be from on-site sources (e.g., chipped wood, etc.). GEN-ISP-3. All material from off-site sources (fill, base material, fill, rock and gravel, straw, mulch, etc.) used for erosion control, rehabilitation of temporary routes/landings, and/or route maintenance must be certified weed-free (S-6, LMP Part 3, p. 5). Fill material will be dry before transporting to the site to minimize the risk of introducing non-native aquatic plants, pathogens, and invertebrates (e.g., snails, mussels, chytrid, etc.). GEN-ISP-4. Work sites and access routes (including foot traffic) will be surveyed for non- native invasive weeds prior to work. Locations on non-native invasive plants will be flagged and all occurrences will be avoided by personnel and equipment (in order to limit the spread of seeds, etc.). A botanist will determine whether monitoring during implementation is required. GEN-ISP-5. A handout will be prepared for the project administrator to identify target weed species and to educate contractors, adjacent landowners, etc. GEN-ISP-6. Personnel and equipment shall avoid contact with water in aquatic habitats as much as possible. Where complete avoidance is not possible, standard procedures shall be followed to avoid spread or introduction of invasive species, diseases, and plants into the aquatic habitat. See Appendix C (inserted at end of this document).

General Wildlife and Plants GEN-WP-1. Areas requiring special treatment (e.g., avoidance, monitoring, limited operating periods, etc.) will be delineated on maps and kept within the project file. These maps will be used to guide project layout and implementation with coordination between the project administrator and project biologists/botanists to identify avoidance areas or special treatment areas on the ground. GEN-WP-2. Known occurrences of Threatened, Endangered, and Sensitive (TES) plants and animals and/or habitat criteria that support Sensitive animal species will be flagged and avoided. A qualified biologist/botanist will work with the project manager to avoid known occurrences (e.g., access routes, equipment storage, etc.). GEN-WP-3. Whenever possible, construction/maintenance work will be scheduled during the fall or winter season to avoid disturbance during reproductive season for most wildlife species and blooming seasons form most plants. GEN-WP-4. Disturbance of soil, vegetation, and wildlife will be minimized to the greatest extent possible. GEN-WP-5. The area of disturbance shall be confined to the smallest area possible and all special habitat features of sensitive animals (e.g., snags, burrows, etc.) should be avoided to the greatest extent feasible. During project activities, ingress/egress paths, staging areas, stockpiling, equipment storage sites, lay down areas, positioning of equipment, and any other potential habitat-disturbing activities shall be limited, to the greatest extent possible, to areas of permanent disturbance (e.g., existing road beds, etc.) within the analysis area. Where this is not possible, previously-disturbed areas or areas with the lowest quality habitat will be used. GEN-WP-6. Equipment and materials (e.g., logs, slash piles, and chip piles) will not be stacked against living trees, existing downed logs, and rock outcrops.

Page 29

GEN-WP-7. Implementation crews will be prohibited from collecting any wildlife or plants.

General Wildlife GEN-WG-1. Nighttime trail construction/maintenance work (and use of artificial lighting) will be avoided unless the Forest Service line officer determines it to be necessary to complete project implementation. Nighttime work must be approved in writing by the appropriate SBNF official before it begins. Nighttime is defined as the period between sunset and sunrise. If pre-dawn operations are necessary, coordination with a biologist will be done to ensure minimization of impacts. GEN-WG-2. Where the Forest Service determines that an exception to the nighttime restriction is necessary, nighttime work and use of artificial lighting will not occur in or within sight (where the artificial lighting or noise will be detectible within) of riparian zones, arroyo toad habitat, mountain yellow-legged frog habitat, California red-legged frog habitat, and nest sites of southwestern willow flycatchers, bald eagle night roosts, and within ¼-mile of spotted owl nests during the appropriate season(s) of occupancy. Appropriate buffers should be developed to ensure that those areas are not affected by night lighting. GEN-WG-3. Use of water sources from National Forest System (NFS) lands for dust abatement or other project operations will be evaluated on a site-specific basis. No water will be removed (for dust control, etc.) from the applicable known or suitable TES riparian habitat including: 1) during primary breeding season for arroyo toad; 2) year-round within suitable or known occupied habitat for mountain yellow-legged frog and California red-legged frogs. GEN-WG-4. If water use from National Forest sources (streams, springs, etc.) is approved by the Forest Service, approval will be limited to amounts such that flows/water levels will not be substantially altered. GEN-WG-5. To the greatest extent possible, destruction of active animal dens, shelters, burrows, and nests (including woodrat nests/middens will be avoided during final trail layout and construction. Appropriate buffers, as determined by a biologist, will be used to limit disturbance. Where destruction is unavoidable, a biologist will work with the project administrator to develop measures to reduce the loss/injury of individual animals (e.g., trapping and moving the animals, scaring them out of the site, etc.). It is recognized it will not be feasible to ensure complete protection of all of these sites, especially in dense shrub habitats. GEN-WG-6. Crew members and volunteers building and maintaining will not bring pets to the work sites or feed wildlife. GEN-WG-7. Project personnel will not intentionally injure or kill wildlife species (including snakes). Instead, animals will be allowed to leave the work area before work resumes. GEN-WG-8. During project implementation, trash and food shall be contained in closed containers and removed from the job site daily to reduce attractiveness to opportunistic wildlife species. All construction debris will be removed at the end of the job. GEN-WG-9. All holes and trenches will be covered at the end of each day in order that wildlife will not become trapped. Where it is not possible to cover a trench or hole, it will be equipped with an “escape ramp” (e.g., a stick) that allows animals to climb out. Holes and trenches will be checked each morning and any animals that have not escaped will be removed immediately.

Page 30

Nesting Birds GEN-B-1. The Forest Service will conduct pre-work surveys for nesting birds along the final layout for new construction areas if construction is planned during the nesting season. Trail construction crews will be provided training on identifying and avoiding impacts to nests. GEN-B-2. If bird nests (including ground nests) are found during project implementation, activities will cease in the immediate area until the project biologist is notified. The biologist will determine whether activities may resume or whether to stop activities until young have fledged and the nest is vacant (as determined by the project biologist). GEN-B-3. Active and inactive raptor nest areas will be protected by using buffers and LOPs as needed (S-18, LMP Part 3, p7). Nest trees will be flagged for avoidance during implementation.

Snags, Logs, and Rock Outcrops GEN-SL-1. Final trail layout will minimize being close to large diameter trees and snags in order to reduce future needs to fell hazard trees. GEN-SL-2. Final trail layout will be done in such a way as to protect animals that rely on log and rock outcrop habitats. Where possible, trails will be laid out with at least 100’ buffers from those habitat features. GEN-SL-3. Project personnel will avoid moving or disturbing downed logs and rock outcrops in order to protect small animal habitats. If disturbance is unavoidable, a biologist may need to be present to monitor for sensitive species during disturbance of the habitat. Equipment, supplies, materials, and soil/gravel, etc. will not be stored on or against logs or rock outcrops.

Threatened, Endangered and Sensitive Species Design Features (TES) TES-1. All modeled habitat is considered suitable and avoided unless surveys have been performed to determine suitability. TES-2. All suitable habitats are considered occupied unless surveys have been performed satisfying the detection and determination protocol and a negative determination is made. TES-3. Activities in suitable habitat for listed species will be avoided unless: 1) protocol- level surveys indicate absence; or 2) the project would have determination of not likely to adversely affect assuming that the species is present. TES-4. Long-term changes/impacts to habitat structure within occupied and suitable TES habitat will be avoided. If unavoidable, project administrator will work with district biologist/botanist to avoid adverse effects for TES species. TES-5. Equipment storage, hazardous materials, fueling, parking, and staging areas will be located outside of appropriate habitat buffer (see below for wildlife; 100’ from T/E plant occurrences) or in Biologist/Botanist pre-approved/designed sites with minimal risk of drainage into riparian areas and aquatic systems. In some cases, containment systems could be used where storage/use of chemicals was necessary within that distance.

Aquatic/Riparian Habitat Design Features (AQR) AQR-1. The five-step project screening process will be used to identify riparian conservation areas (RCAs) (S-47, LMP Part 3, p. 11). Page 31

AQR-2. RCAs will be 100 meters (328 feet) on perennial streams, or 30 meters (98 feet) on intermittent streams, measured as the slope distance from either bank of the channel. Other special aquatic criteria, such as wetlands, seeps and springs, also have 100- meter RCAs. AQR-3. Trails will be laid out so as to minimize distance in and effects to RCAs. Where crossings are unavoidable, they will be perpendicular crossings that minimize the distance within the RCA. AQR-4. RCA crossings will be planned so as to minimize the need for removal of riparian vegetation during construction and over the long-term (e.g., using natural openings, etc.) AQR-5. Refueling of equipment and storage of fuel and other hazardous materials will not occur within 250’ of RCAs (perennial and seasonal streams, seeps, springs, ponds, lakes, and meadows). No storage/staging of fuel and other hazardous materials will be allowed in RCAs. Storage of any quantity of fuel greater than 100 gallons will require a California Engineer Spill Plan. AQR-6. A biological monitor will be on-site during ground-disturbing work in all aquatic and riparian habitat (including springs and meadows). AQR-7. Project personnel are not permitted to loiter within riparian zones. AQR-8. Project-related materials (including cut vegetation) will not be left in riparian/aquatic areas. AQR-9. The Forest Service and/or contractor(s) will develop a Water Pollution Control Plan for projects occurring within RCAs. This plan will specify details related to sediment and hazardous materials control, dewatering or diversion structures, fueling and equipment management practices, and other factors determined by the forest project engineer and earth scientist or biologist.

Rare Terrestrial Reptiles and Amphibians Design Features (HERP) HERP-1. High quality habitat features (logs, rocks, heavy litter, etc.) will be avoided during project activities. Where disturbance cannot be avoided, a biological monitor will survey for these animals and move (or temporarily hold) them out of harm’s way.

Rare Butterflies (RBU) RBU-1. Prior to ground-disturbance for new trail construction, re-routing of existing trails, or restoration of trails to be closed, surveys will be conducted for the host plants of the rare butterflies. Where host plants are found, trails will be re-routed to avoid them with at least 300’ buffer. A wildlife monitor will be present during any work around the host plants to ensure that crews avoid effects to the host plants and butterflies (of all life stages). Rare Plants Design Features (PLANT) PLANT-1. Except as provided under PLANT-2, effects to Threatened, Endangered, and Sensitive (TES) plant species and designated Critical Habitat will be avoided. These areas may be buffered to prevent indirect impacts such as soil movement into the occurrences. A qualified botanist will work with the appropriate staff to avoid known occurrences.

Page 32

PLANT-2. In limited instances in coordination with the Forest or District botanist, and where essential to allow for operability or safety, individual plants of a Sensitive plant occurrence may be impacted; but only where the individuals impacted represent a small fraction of the occurrence. Where occurrences of TES plants cannot be avoided, the District or Forest botanist will work with appropriate staff to minimize impacts (e.g., hand treatments, special prescriptions, etc.). PLANT-3. TES plant occurrences will be flagged for avoidance prior to the onset of work. A botanical monitor will be on site during work in these areas to ensure that impacts to known T/E occurrences are avoided. The project leader will coordinate with the District Botanist or Forest Botanist. PLANT-4. Suitable habitat for TES Plants within the footprint of disturbance will be surveyed before implementation where practical, with an emphasis on areas of high likelihood of species presence. PLANT-5. Designated Critical Habitat for plant species will be flagged prior to the onset of work. Maintenance in roadbed, trail tread, existing leadouts, and existing structures is allowable. New construction/disturbance is not allowed. A botanical monitor must be on site during work in these areas to ensure that impacts to Primary Constituent Elements of Critical Habitat are avoided. PLANT-6. Watch-list plant species and other plant species of interest may be flagged for avoidance where they co-occur with sensitive species, riparian conservation areas, or where objectives and operability are not compromised.

Monitoring Design Features (MON) MON-1. Botanical or biological monitoring will be conducted, as needed, during implementation to ensure that protection measures and objectives are met. Post- implementation monitoring of special treatment areas, as needed, will also be conducted.

Page 33

PART II: EXISTING CONDITIONS AND GENERAL EFFECTS

II-1.0 – INTRODUCTION This chapter, Part II, describes the existing environment in the analysis area and addresses effects that are common to many plant and animal species as well as special status species that are discussed in depth in Parts III, IV, V, and VI of this document. The purpose of Part II is to describe, in general, species and habitats in the analysis area as well as to document the general types and degree of potential effects from the proposed project.

II-2.0 – EXISTING ENVIRONMENT – GENERAL Analysis Area Description: The proposed Rattlesnake OHV trails system (Figure 1) is located in the San Bernardino Mountains south of Apple Valley and north of Big Bear Lake, California, in San Bernardino County. The proposed project is located on National Forest System (NFS) lands, managed by the Mountaintop Ranger District of the San Bernardino National Forest (SBNF).

Communities found nearby include the unincorporated community of Lucerne Valley to the north, and the City of Big Bear Lake (incorporated) and the unincorporated communities of Moonridge, Big Bear City, Fawnskin, Sugarloaf, Erwin Lake, Baldwin Lake, and Lake Williams to the south.

The analysis area ranges in elevation from approximately 5,100 to approximately 7,700 feet. The analysis area comprises very steep areas on the north east end along 3N17, rolling hill features around Rattlesnake Mountain and Horse Springs in the north west end, rising to relatively flat areas near Big Pine Flat at the south end of the analysis area.

The project is located across portions of the Deep Creek and the Silver Creek-Rabbit Lake watersheds. Contained within each of these watersheds are several smaller subwatersheds (Holcomb Creek, Lower Deep Creek, and Arrastre Creek).

Streams within the Holcomb Creek subwatershed drain southwest into Cox Creek, a tributary of Holcomb Creek, which than drains into Deep Creek. Streams within the Lower Deep Creek subwatershed drain southwest into Coxey Creek, which is a tributary of Deep Creek. The U.S. Geological Survey operated a streamflow gage on Deep Creek near the confluence with Mojave River between 1905 and 2013. Peak flows typically occur between December and March.

Located within the Holcomb Creek and Lower Deep Creek subwatersheds, the project area has 7.3 and 13.8 miles, respectively of intermittent streams. Runoff is typically rapid and the streams as indicated by their intermittent nature are dry in the summer.

The section of Holcomb Creek where Cox Creek drains into it has been designated as eligible for protection under the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act to preserve its beauty and free-flowing nature as a “wild” river as its free of impoundments and generally inaccessible except by trail, with Page 34

watersheds or shorelines essentially primitive and waters unpolluted. Deep Creek is also designated as eligible for protection under the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act as both a “wild” and “scenic” river.

Streams within the Arrastre Canyon subwatershed drain northwest into the desert valley where they infiltrate into the soil or dissipate across the land surface. Located within the Arrastre Canyon subwatershed, the project area has 5.6 miles of intermittent streams, which run dry in the summer and during periods of low precipitation.

In general, Willow Creek and all other watercourses in the project area only flow in response to storm events. Some of them (including the upper reaches of Dawn-O-Day and Coxey Creeks) hold water for longer periods (probably due to presence of springs). Horse Spring holds water in wet years. Chukar Spring is perennial.

The subwatersheds are primarily dominated by four soil families, Wapi-Pacifico, Olete- Goulding, Morical-Brader, and Pacifico-Preston along with several other smaller families.

II-2.1 – Existing Environment - Vegetation Descriptions There are two major plant communities in the analysis area: pinyon/juniper woodlands and desert transition . Much of the analysis area supported active cattle grazing operations beginning in the 19th century and continuing into the 1990s. Those operations included a number of habitat manipulations to improve grazing conditions. Type-conversions involved discing and planting with non-native annual and perennial grasses. The type-conversions have not been maintained for grazing in recent decades and native vegetation has become re-established. However, many non-native grasses continue to thrive throughout analysis area. Type- conversions were done in the areas of Coyote Flats, and Little Pine Flats.

II-2.1.1 – Pinyon/Juniper Woodlands Pinyon-juniper woodlands occur on semi-arid desert-side slopes of southern California. Single- leaf pinyon pine (Pinus monophylla) generally dominates higher elevation slopes and extends into lower montane forests and woodlands, while juniper species co-dominate to varying degrees.

Pinyon-juniper woodlands typically are open-canopied with a sparse understory. Understory shrubs are primarily from desert transition chaparral and Great Basin sagebrush communities and include sagebrush ( spp.), bitterbrush (Purshia tridentata), mountain mahogany (Cercocarpus ledifolius), rabbitbrush (Chrysothamnus spp.), yerba santa (Eriodictyon californicum), buckwheat (Eriogonum spp.) and others. The open vegetation structure in and near the analysis area supports multiple rare plant species.

Pinyon-juniper woodlands do not typically carry fire readily, unless cheatgrass or other non- native species have become well-established. When fires do occur, they are typically intense, stand-replacing events. Mature pinyon and juniper trees are readily consumed and have low resilience from even low-intensity burns because they have thin, resinous bark, dense branching, and self-prune poorly.

Page 35

One study of pinyon-juniper woodlands in the San Bernardino Mountains estimated the average fire return interval to be 480 years and that active fire suppression has had little effect on this vegetation type (Wangler and Minnich 1996).

Pinyon-juniper woodlands recover very slowly from crown fires. More than 100 years is required before these trees once again dominate a site after a stand-replacing wildfire. Pinyon neither stump sprouts nor does its seed survive fire. Thus, for pinyon to regenerate, seeds must be dispersed into the site by seed-caching birds or rodents. Moreover, because seedlings require mature shrubs as nurse plants to survive seedling and sapling stages, years of shrub growth may be necessary before trees can become well established (Burwell 1999, Koniak 1985, Wangler and Minnich 1996). This exceptionally long recovery period combined with an increase in human-caused fires has converted some pinyon-juniper woodlands to desert chaparral or desert scrub, with longer term prospects of pinyon reestablishment remaining uncertain. Cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum) and red brome (Bromus madritensis ssp. rubens) have invaded some of these former stands coinciding with an increase in fire frequency.

II-2.1.2 – Desert Transition Chaparral (Sonora-Mojave-Baja Semi-Desert Chaparral) The slopes below the pinyon-juniper woodlands support a desert transition chaparral with associated species including Cercocarpus ledifolius, Arctostaphyllus glauca, Quercus cornelleus-mulleri, Quercus john-tuckeri, Quercus palmeri, Ericameria linerafolia, Rhamnus illicifolia, Ephedra viridis, Ceanothus greggii, and Joshua tree ().

II-2.2 – Existing Environment – Other Habitats The area to the North East of the analysis area is characterized by having an abundance of rocky outcrops and steep cliff faces. On the North Slope, this habitat type provides shelter, nest sites, escape terrain, and foraging sites for a number of species including golden eagles (nesting), ravens (nesting), Nelson’s bighorn sheep, numerous cliff-dwelling bats, ringtails, reptiles, etc. The habitat is suitable for nesting prairie and peregrine falcons.

II-2.3 – Existing Environment – Wildlife Appendix A includes a list of all animal species that have been recorded in and near the analysis area.

II-2.3.1 – Invertebrate Occurrences The analysis area supports a diversity of invertebrate species associated with the vegetation types present. Rare invertebrates that may reside in the springs in the analysis area are springsnails and simple hydroporus diving beetle. Other rare invertebrates that are known from the analysis area or that have potential to occur include Ehrlich’s checkerspot, vernal blue butterfly, Andrew’s marble butterfly, August checkerspot, and San Bernardino Mountains silk moth.

II-2.3.2 – Fish Occurrences Coxey pond and Coxey creek are near the analysis area. Several introduced non-native species are found in the pond including goldfish, largemouth Bass and blue gill. Coxey pond has a population of partially armored three-spined stickleback. No fish are known from within the analysis area.

Page 36

II-2.3.3 – Amphibian Occurrences Amphibians require a source of standing or flowing water to complete their life cycle. Some terrestrial species can survive in drier areas by remaining in moist environments found beneath leaf litter and fallen logs, or by burrowing into the soil. These xeric-adapted species conserve moisture by emerging only under high humidity conditions or when the weather is cool and/or wet. Most of the analysis area is not high quality habitat for amphibians. Common amphibians that are known from or likely present in the analysis area include pacific western toad (Bufo boreas), California treefrog (Hyla cadaverina), and Pacific treefrog (Hyla regilla).

Rare amphibians that may occur in the analysis area are large-blotched ensatina (Ensatina klauberi), and yellow-blotched ensatina (Ensatina eschscholtzii croceater).

II-2.3.4 – Reptile Occurrences The diversity of reptile species is related to the diversity of plant communities found on the site. Typically, plant communities that have an abundant amount of leaf litter, rocks, and rotting logs have a higher diversity than those areas that have been highly modified or disturbed.

Common reptiles known or expected to occur in the analysis area include side-blotched lizard (Uta stansburiana), western fence lizard (Sceloporus occidentalis), western skink (Eumeces skiltonianus), great basin whiptail (Aspidoscelis tigris tigris), sagebrush lizard (Sceloporus graciosus), common kingsnake (Lampropeltis getula), striped racer (Masticophis lateralis), San Diego coast horned lizard (Phrynosoma coronatum blainvillii), and southern Pacific rattlesnake (Crotalus viridis).

Other reptiles known from the North Slope with potential to occur in the analysis area include San Bernardino ringneck snake (Diadophis punctatus modestus), coast patch-nosed snake (Salvadora hexalepis virgultea), San Bernardino mountain kingsnake (Lampropeltis zonata parvirubra), two- striped garter snake (Thamnophis hammondii), and terrestrial mountain garter snake (Thamnophis elegans elegans).

II-2.3.5 – Bird Occurrences The pinyon-juniper woodlands and desert transition habitat in and adjacent to the analysis area provide habitat for many bird species, including dark-eyed junco (Junco hyemalis), mountain chickadee (Poecile gambeli), western scrub jay (Aphelocoma californica), common raven (Corvus corax), western bluebird (Sialia mexicana), black-throated sparrow (Amphispiza bilineata), western wood pewee (Contopus sordidulus), western tanager (Piranga ludoviciana), brown-headed cowbird (Molothrus ater), and red-tailed hawk (Buteo jamaicensis).

Less common species of birds that are known to or may occur in the analysis area include turkey vulture (Cathartes aura), ferruginous hawk (Buteo regalis), golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos), prairie falcon (Falco mexicanus), American peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus anatus), western screech owl (Otus kennicottii), northern pygmy owl (Glaucidium gnoma), northern saw-whet owl (Aegolius acadicus), California spotted owl (Strix occidentalis occidentalis), common nighthawk (Chordeiles minor), whip-poor-will (Caprimulgus vociferus), Nuttall's woodpecker (Picoides Page 37

nuttallii), band-tailed pigeon (Columba fasciata), gray flycatcher (Empidonax wrightii), California horned lark (Eremophila alpestris actia), oak titmouse (Baeolophus inornatus), pinyon jay (Gymnorhinus cyanocephalus), loggerhead shrike (Lanius ludovicianus), gray vireo (Vireo vicinior), Cassin’s vireo (Vireo cassinii), plumbeus vireo (Vireo plumbeus), warbling vireo (Vireo gilvus), black-chinned sparrow (Spizella atrogularis), Lincoln's sparrow (Melospiza lincolnii), Lawrence's goldfinch (Carduelis lawrencei), and California condor (Gymnogyps californianus).

II-2.3.6 – Mammal Occurrences The analysis area contains foraging, breeding, cover, and movement corridor habitat for many mammal species. Mammal species occurring or expected to occur in the analysis area include small mammals such as lodgepole chipmunk (Tamias speciosus), Merriam’s chipmunk (Tamias merriami), antelope ground squirrel (Ammospermophilus leucurus), California ground squirrel (Spermophilus beecheyi), San Diego pocket mouse (Chaetodipus fallax fallax ), grasshopper mouse (Onychomys torridus ramona), deer mouse (Peromyscus maniculatus), pacific kangaroo rat (Dipodomys agilis), San Diego desert woodrat (Neotoma lepida intermedia), dusky-footed woodrat (Neotoma fuscipes), CA meadow vole (Microtus californicus), and desert shrew (Notiosorex crawfordi).

Bat species that occur or are likely to occur in the analysis area include Yuma myotis (Myotis yumanensis), long-eared myotis (Myotis evotis), fringed myotis (Myotis thysanodes), long-legged myotis (Myotis volans), little brown myotis (Myotis lucifugus), western small-footed myotis (Myotis ciliolabrum), spotted bat (Euderma maculatum), pocketed free-tailed bat (Nyctinomops femerosaccus), western bonneted bat (Eumops perotis californicus), pallid bat (Antrozous pallidus), California leaf-nosed bat (Macrotus californicus), Townsend’s big-eared bat (Plecotus townsendii).

Larger mammals that are known to or may occur in the analysis area include the black bear (Ursus americanus), raccoons (Procyon lotor), gray fox (Urocyon cinereoargenteus), black-tailed jackrabbit (Lepus californicus), ringtail (Bassariscus astutus), mountain lion (Felis concolor), bobcat (Felis rufus), mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus), American badger (Taxidea taxus), coyote (Canis latrans), and Nelson's bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis nelsoni).

II-3.0 – EFFECTS OF PROPOSED ACTION – COMMON TO MANY SPECIES II-3.1 – Levels of Effect Analyses The analysis area, as evaluated under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), is the area that encompasses the full scope of the Proposed Action and alternatives considered, and the expected effects thereof. For the purposes of this project, this is the same as the project area.

The federal action area, as evaluated under the Endangered Species Act and associated regulations, applies to the discussions of listed threatened and endangered species and designated Critical Habitat under the federal Endangered Species Act. This area encompasses the maximum reach of direct and indirect effects to listed species and designated critical habitat.

The analysis of potential effects includes direct, indirect, and cumulative effects associated with the proposed project. The expected likelihood, extent, severity, and duration of effects (short- term being under 3-5 years in effect; long-term being greater than 5 years) are addressed in the analyses. The factors considered in each of level of analysis are explained below. Page 38

II-3.1.1 Direct Effects Direct effects are considered actions or activities that are immediate in space and/or time (e.g., physical damage to plants; death or injury of animals, destruction of eggs, disturbance that disrupts breeding behavior, habitat degradation via canopy cover, etc.).

II-3.1.2 Indirect Effects Indirect effects are actions or activities that could result in effects to the species but are removed from the project activities in space and/or time (e.g., downstream sedimentation, changes to hydrological patterns, effects to pollinators, invasive species introduction, etc.).

II-3.1.3 Cumulative Effects This document addresses two definitions of Cumulative Effects/Impacts:  Under the NEPA, “cumulative impacts” are those effects caused by past, present, and future federal, state, and private activities within or onto special status species and their habitats. This definition applies to the general cumulative impacts discussions (Part II), cumulative impacts for Sensitive species (Part IV), NEPA cumulative impacts for Threatened/Endangered species (Part III), and the cumulative impacts for Management Indicator Species (Part V).  Under the ESA, “cumulative effects” only consider future non-federal activities that are reasonably certain to occur. Future federal activities or activities permitted by federal agencies are not included under ESA “cumulative effects” because any proposed future federal activities or federally permitted activities must undergo future Section 7 consultation with the USFWS. This definition applies to the cumulative effects analysis for federally-listed Threatened/Endangered species (Part III).

Cumulative effects/impacts consider the effects of other actions that may combine with the predicted effects of the Proposed Action. Cumulative effects/impacts result when the effects of an action are added to or interact with other effects in a particular place and within a particular time. The analysis area for cumulative effects analysis depends on the distribution of the species. The cumulative effects analysis area for some narrowly-distributed species can be small, but analysis for some species where local effects can be extended to a broader scale through animal movement and population dynamics are done over a corresponding larger area.

II-3.1.3.1 Cumulative Effects – Past and Ongoing Activities/Actions: Past and ongoing activities and their effects to species/habitats are described in the “Baseline Condition” discussions for each species. The primary ongoing activities within and near the Project Area that contribute cumulative effects are unauthorized motorized travel off of National Forest Transportation System (NFTS) roads and trails. These ongoing uses are widespread across the Project Area landscape and range from dirt bikes to 4x4s travelling cross country, or on existing unauthorized routes, or creating new unauthorized routes. Potential effects include watershed impacts, soil loss, erosion, impacts to wildlife and wildlife habitat, loss of vegetation, weed introduction and spread, and destruction of rare plants and plant habitats. A primary purpose of this project is to reduce these unauthorized uses by improving OHV opportunities within the Project Area and restoring unauthorized routes. The LMP and supporting EIS contain more general discussions of past influences on the SBNF. Page 39

II-3.1.3.2 Cumulative Effects – Current Activities/Actions: For the purposes of this analysis, current activities/actions are those that are one-time projects that are in the implementation phase. There are two SBNF restoration projects that are currently being implemented near the project area: Coxey and Deep Creek. Both of these projects have similar effects to the restoration component of the Rattlesnake Mountain OHV Trails Proposed Action, with minimal short term adverse effects to native vegetation followed by expected long-term beneficial effects.

We are not aware of any current non-Federal activities near the project area that are being implemented and may contribute to the cumulative effects of this project.

II-3.1.3.3 Cumulative Effects – Foreseeable Future Activities/Actions: There are no foreseeable future federal activities/actions within the project area within the analysis area.

There is one fuels reduction project currently in the planning phase – North Big Bear. While this project is beyond the reach of direct and indirect effects of the effects of the Rattlesnake Mountain OHV Trails project, many of the same species associated with pinyon juniper woodland would be affected. Vegetation management activities are focused on fuels reduction and forest health projects. Activities would include thinning of understory and overstory, removal of dead or dying trees, and emphasis on retention of the largest trees.

The SBNF is currently analyzing the expansion of two limestone mining operations on the North Slope of the San Bernardino Mountains. Omya Inc. has proposed expanding their existing Sentinel and Butterfield 3 limestone quarries on NFS lands. Mitsubishi Cement Corporation (MCC) has proposed a new limestone quarry (South Quarry) and associated haul road on NFS lands. Both of these projects would result in losses of pinyon juniper habitat and associated species, including listed carbonate endemic plant species and designated critical habitat.

On non-federal lands near the Project Area, the County of San Bernardino is considering Omya’s proposal to expand the White Knob quarry. This project would also result in long-term losses of pinyon/juniper and desert transition habitat for many species that also occur within the Rattlesnake Mountain OHV Trails Project Area.

II-3.2 – Effects of Proposed Action – Common Effects to Plants and Wildlife The following discussion describes generalized direct and indirect effects that are common to many of the plants, animals, or habitats in the analysis area. These discussions also apply to TESW species discussed in later sections of this document. Parts of these discussions will be referenced later in the specific-species discussions for those species that are known to occur or have the potential to occur in the analysis area.

II-3.2.1 – General Effects to Vegetation Communities/Wildlife Habitat Availability As vegetation is a critical component of wildlife habitat in terms of foraging sites, food supplies, cover/shelter, and breeding sites, losses of or disturbance to native vegetation can affect habitat availability and quality for wildlife species.

Page 40

Vegetation communities would be disturbed by trail construction, use, and maintenance activities that remove existing vegetation. Under the Proposed Action, 2.6 miles of new trail would be constructed. With 1.1 miles of this new construction proposed to be 50” wide, and the remaining 1.5 miles proposed to be 24” wide, there would be a total of approximately 0.9 acres of vegetation lost for the long-term. In addition to vegetation communities, there would be an associated loss of special status plant species, as discussed below and in other parts of this document. Changes to existing road and trail designations, and adding existing unauthorized trails to the system would not result in long-term loss of vegetation relative to the existing condition, though bringing these trails up to standard would have short term impacts. Blocking and restoring unauthorized routes within the project area would eventually provide for the gradual revegetation of those areas.

II-3.2.2 – Potential Direct Effects to Plants Habitat loss from trail construction would result in the permanent loss of individuals of multiple species of plants (Appendix A) through removal or burial of plants. While it is expected that revegetation/restoration of closed non-system trails would offset these losses, the habitat effects of new trail construction are considered to be permanent.

II-3.2.3 – Potential Indirect Effects to Plants Plants near designated OHV trails may be affected by erosion and deposition of soil and dust, with effects ranging from reduced seed set to individual plant mortality. Erosion and deposition lead to loss of topsoil, including nutrients, native seedbanks, and beneficial microflora and microfauna. Erosion and deposition can also lead to loss of whole plants through undermining or burial. Design Features for engineering, maintenance, soils and hydrology would minimize these indirect effects to plants and vegetation adjacent to OHV trails/roads.

Ground disturbance associated with OHV trail construction and use may also increase the prevalence of cheatgrass and red brome, which can form a flashy and continuous fuelbed, and thereby increase the likelihood of ignition and frequency of wildfire. Too-frequent fire can ultimately lead to type conversion of pinyon-juniper woodlands and desert transition chaparral. Design Features to monitor and control weeds are expected to minimize weed risk.

II-3.2.4 – Spread or Establishment of Non-Native Invasive Species See the Non-Native Assessment Report (Part VII of this document) for a discussion of the risk of non-native plant and animal establishment and spread in the analysis area.

II-3.2.5 – Potential Effects to Habitat Contiguity and Fragmentation The contiguity of habitat in the Rattlesnake Mountain OHV Trails project area has been compromised to some degree as a result of unauthorized route proliferation and use, and the existence of NFTS roads in the area.

Movement corridors are distinguished by “passage” species (large wide-ranging animals) and “dweller” species (smaller animals) (Beier and Loe 1992). The existing routes pose some disruption of habitat contiguity but probably do not currently create barriers to wildlife movement, pollinators, and seed dispersal. The proposed trails would be relatively narrow and not result in habitat fragmentation. Page 41

Because the Proposed Action and Alternative 3 include restoration of unauthorized trails along with the establishment of a trail system, there would be a net decrease in the area of disturbed land. The proposed trail system uses existing unauthorized trails as much as possible and minimizes the amount of new trail construction. The movement of both “dweller” and “passage” species may be affected minimally by restoration efforts but the overall affect to these populations would be beneficial.

The proposed project is unlikely to affect habitat contiguity and movement on a small or landscape scale.

II-3.2.6 – Potential Effects to Riparian and Aquatic Habitats Riparian Conservation Areas (RCAs) are areas defined in the SBNF Forest Plan to provide for management of riparian resources. They are areas that consist of geographically distinct resource values and characteristics, which are composed of the aquatic and riparian resources, floodplains, and wetlands. They include, but are not limited to, meadows, all areas within a horizontal distance of 328 feet (100 meters) from the edge of perennial streams, and lakes/reservoirs or within approximately 98 feet (30 meters) of the edge of seasonally flowing/intermittent streams (FSH 2509.22).

In most years, the drainages and streams in and adjacent to the analysis area only flow after storm events. The upper reaches of Dawn-O-Day and Coxey Creeks hold water in most years.

There are a number of springs present in the analysis area: Oak Spring, Rattlesnake Spring, Unnamed #16, Pinon Spring, Coyote Spring Horse Spring, Chukar Spring, Dawn O’Day Spring, Lizard Spring, Hopi Spring, Jackrabbit Spring, Mud Spring, and Willow Spring. Additionally, there are two cement guzzlers in the Coyote Flat area. Most of these springs were developed and maintained when the area was part of an active cattle allotment. They are currently maintained periodically for wildlife habitat.

Riparian vegetation is present at the springs and in Willow Canyon, Coxey Creek, Arrastre Canyon, and Dawn-O-Day Canyon. All of these areas would be RCAs during project implementation (Figure 4).

The following effects discussion summarizes the “Rattlesnake Mountain OHV Trails Project Hydrology & Soils Report” (Wells 2015). Under the Proposed Action, water quality, riparian condition, and soil stability (as measured by the number of stream crossings, trail miles in RCAs, and trail density, respectively) would improve as a result of removal of trails from RCAs. Stream crossings would be reduced by 32% (43 to 29). Trails in RCAs would be reduced 60% (from 8.2 to 3.3 miles). Trail density would be reduced 38% (from 4.0 to 2.5 mi/mi2).

Under the Proposed Action, as trails are rerouted or removed, riparian vegetation and habitat would be expected to recover, increasing the amount and quality of available habitat for riparian- dependent species.

Page 42

Figure 4. Riparian Conservation Areas Page 43

The expected effects of Alternative 3 (adding OHV traffic to a portion of 3N14) to riparian/aquatic habitat conditions would be the same as those described for the Proposed Action.

Table 4 (from the Hydrology and Soils Report) summarizes the predicted effects from the alternatives.

Table 4. Summary Comparison of Environmental Effects to Soil and Water Resources Resource Indicator/ Alt 1 (No Action) Alt 2 (Proposed Action) Alt 3 (Mixed Element Measure Use) Water quality Number of trail No new trail construction Closure and restoration of Same as Alt 2. stream crossings or stream crossings would unauthorized trails would be implemented, therefore eliminate 14 trail stream sediment increases would crossings therefore reducing be limited to existing trail sedimentation. Overall net condition and usage. 43 positive effect on water existing trail stream quality when compared to crossings would not be alternative 1. improved to required design standards, having a continued adverse effect on water quality. Riparian Trail in riparian 8.2 miles of mostly No new trails are proposed Same as Alt 2. Function, Corridor (miles) degraded trails within the within riparian areas. and Channel riparian corridor would Closure and/or relocation of Stability continue to promote 4.9 miles of trail within the expansion of trail work- RCA would have an overall around, denuded positive effect on riparian vegetation, and adverse function. effects to riparian function. Soil Stability Trail Density 4.0 mi/mi2 of trail would Trail density would Same as Alt 2. (mi/mi2) continue to degrade soil decrease by 1.5 mi/mi2 resources, compacting and resulting in less soil displacing the organic compaction, increased surface layers. vegetation and ground cover, increased infiltration, and less sedimentation.

II-3.2.7 – Disturbance/Displacement/Abandonment – Wildlife Short-term disturbance effects would be associated with the construction phase while the disturbance associated with use and maintenance of the trail system would be long-term. Disturbance effects would vary depending on use levels; the heaviest use would be expected during summer weekends and very low effects would be expected at night. Because snow cover is limited in the analysis area, there is often year-round access from the desert side; thus, use- related disturbance would be expected year-round.

Disturbance effects on wildlife species have been well-documented for a number of species including deer, small mammals, reptiles, and nesting and perching birds. Most species exhibit a "flight" response to disturbance resulting in temporary, or if disturbance is constant, permanent

Page 44

displacement. Flight responses and/or disturbances can negatively affect animal health by requiring increased energy expenditures.

Animals respond to disturbances through behavioral and/or physiological responses. Disturbance responses are classed in three ways: attraction (curiosity, food-seeking), tolerance, and aversion. Stress requires energy expenditure. In some cases, it may require more energy than an animal can take in, so they must use body energy reserves. Continuous stress may eventually cause illness or death. Stress combined with other factors such as severe winter conditions or constant disturbance may cause individuals to die or fail to reproduce. In such cases, populations would decline. When disturbance occurs over a large region for many years, the population may be unable to continue to reproduce and survive in the area (Knight and Gutzwiller 1995).

The distance of displacement depends on several factors: quality of vegetative and topographic cover (line-of-sight from disturbance points); amount and type of disturbance; timing of disturbance (e.g. noise during the day may not affect a nocturnal species, and animals may be more or less tolerant of disturbance during breeding season); and tolerance for disturbance (e.g. hunted populations are generally more likely to flee from disturbance than nonhunted/protected populations) (Knight and Gutzwiller 1995).

Potential disturbance effects include: alteration of habitat use (avoidance or abandonment of an area – either temporarily or permanently), interruption of reproductive activities (courtship, mating, prenatal care, nesting, etc.), and increased predation (especially of abandoned nests) (Knight and Gutzwiller 1995).

Birds are especially sensitive to background noises. Being able to differentiate vocalizations of the same and different species from background noise is important for pair bonding, breeding displays, territory defense, flock communication, etc. (http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/environment/ noise/noise_effect_on_wildlife/effects/effects.pdf). Continuous or frequent background sounds may interfere with feeding, breeding, territory defense, and avoiding predators.

Use of the trail system is expected to result in disturbance of animals and possible abandonment of areas close to the trail system by some species. The restoration and closure of the unauthorized routes is expected to result in lower trail densities and should reduce the degree of wildlife disturbance in some parts of the analysis area.

II-3.2.8 – Death and Injury of Individuals – Wildlife Some losses of individual animals are likely due to the use of trails by impact by fast-moving OHVs. The potential for death or injury of large animals would be considered to be low. Smaller, slow-moving terrestrial or aquatic species (amphibians, reptiles, small rodents) are at higher risk. The potential for death and injury depends on time of year, activity patterns of the individual species, and the activity taking place on the ground.

Because OHVs often travel fast and quietly and riders focus on the trail tread, they have limited reaction time. In some parts of the country, an increase in bear encounters has occurred, with the increase attributed to mountain biker trail use and the how mountain bike speed allow for more Page 45

encounters occurring without enough reaction time (Herrero and Herrero 2000). The same may be true for motorcycles and OHVs.

There is also some limited potential for death/injury of individuals during trail maintenance activities. However, the Design Features include measures to train trail maintenance personnel on minimizing impacts (e.g., what to do if animals are seen; avoiding impacts to nests, logs, rocky outcrops, and woodrat nests/middens).

Snakes, other reptiles, and amphibians are also at risk due to human vandalism and collecting. Because of fear or dislike of snakes, they are often intentionally run over or killed by visitors to the National Forest. Members of the public often collect snakes, toads, treefrogs, coast horned lizards, and other small animals as pets.

It is likely that dead trees occurring along the trails would be felled to provide for safety of the trail users. As such, there is the possibility of impacts to birds and other animals using those trees for nesting or denning. Cavity-dwelling bats or those bat species that roost under peeling bark also have the potential to be affected by felling of snags. As trees are being cut, the disturbance is likely to cause bats to abandon the tree before it falls, thus most individuals would be able to avoid injury or death. None of the bats species in this part of the San Bernardino Mountains are known to use snags for maternity colony sites, so losses of reproductive colonies is not expected. For birds, adults are likely to escape injury or death since they would fly at the beginning of the disturbance. However, eggs and nestlings would not be able to escape and would either be killed or injured. The Design Features call for trees to be evaluated for nests/dens prior to felling and to avoid doing the felling during breeding season.

Nests in trees and bushes may be destroyed during tree felling operations. Additionally, nests on the ground are also susceptible to destruction by trail users going off-trail (intentionally or accidentally) and during trail maintenance activities.

II-3.2.9 – General Effects to Breeding Animals Disturbances prior to nesting/breeding season may result in abandonment of breeding areas (e.g., nests, lambing areas, etc.) and disruption of courtship behaviors resulting in failure to reproduce or moving to adjacent areas and competing with other individuals for resources. Disturbance after breeding has started may result in losses of the season’s reproduction if the animals abandon existing nests, eggs, or offspring. It is likely that, if suitable habitat remains after treatment for the individual species, they would re-colonize the site after the disturbance has ceased.

Nests in trees and bushes may be destroyed during vegetation removal during reroute activates but these instances would be minimized based on the design features. It is not expected that ground nesting animals would use the existing trails for nest sites because the areas are already highly impacted by OHV use.

Some effects to breeding behavior of animals, including common, Watchlist, and Sensitive species, are expected. Implementation of the Proposed Action may actual benefit breeding

Page 46

animals due to closure/restoration of unauthorized trails thus decreasing disturbance effects and increasing habitat availability.

II-3.2.10 – Potential Effects to Cliff and Rock Outcrop Dwelling Species – Wildlife A number of animals, including some Forest Service Sensitive and SBNF Watchlist species, use rock outcrops and cliffs for denning, foraging, escape terrain, and breeding sites (including bats, ringtails, ground squirrels, badgers, raccoons, bighorn sheep, mountain lions, swallows, golden eagles, ravens, hawks, wrens, owls, snakes, lizards, salamanders, invertebrates, etc.).

Because of the locations of the routes designated in the Proposed Action and Alternative 3, recreational use would not result in any new effects to cliff habitat.

II-3.2.11 – Potential Effects to Log-Dependent, Fossorial, and Small Terrestrial Animals Some animals, including Sensitive and Watchlist species, such as salamanders, lizards, snakes, burrowing rodents, and badgers may be affected by the reroutes of some trails during ground- clearing phases.

After ground-clearing phases for reroutes, safety enhancements, and trailering sites have been completed, the potential for effects to fossorial and log-dependent species may be reduced.

II-3.2.12 – Potential Beneficial Effects Under the Proposed Action, a number of unauthorized user-created trails would be closed and restored. These existing trails were not engineered according to Forest Service trails standards and, as such, they result in erosion and habitat degradation and exist in places with resource conflicts. Closure and restoration of those trails would benefit plants and animals and their habitats. Newly-constructed trails would be built according to standards and in places that are easier to maintain and have fewer resource conflicts. Existing trails that would be adopted into the NFTS network would be re-designed and maintained to standard; some would be re-routed out of riparian areas or re-designed with proper riparian crossings. Overall, trail density would be reduced.

Under the Proposed Action, direct and indirect effects to plants and animals would be expected to be lower than under the existing conditions. Habitat quality and availability should improve. Disturbance to animals would also be expected to improve as trail density is reduced and high quality habitats (e.g., large unroaded areas, riparian areas, springs, etc.) are avoided.

II-3.3 – Potential Effects of No Action Alternative Under the No Action alternative, the baseline condition would persist. The effects to plants, animals, and their habitat (including that of TES, Watchlist, and common species) would continue and may increase. Unauthorized routes would continue to be utilized by motorized vehicles throughout the project area. It is likely that effects would increase over time as the result of continued use of unauthorized routes that are not engineered or maintained properly and the creation of new routes. Habitats, including riparian, along existing unauthorized trails and in new user-created trails would be degraded and lost.

Page 47

Disturbance from OHV and human activities on the unauthorized trails would affect wildlife in those areas. Trail density (miles of trail/square mile) would remain high and may increase over time. As such, animals may have less habitat in which to escape disturbance. Animals, especially small terrestrial species may be injured or killed on the trails. See detailed discussions in Sections II-3.2.7 and II-3.2.8.

Individual plants, plant communities, and special soil types that support rare plant habitats would continue to be impacted by motorized vehicle travel off of designated roads and trails.

Under the No Action alternative, restoration of unauthorized routes may still occur based on site- specific review and other NEPA decisions, subject to available funding. However, it is unlikely that the scope of unauthorized route restoration included in the Proposed Action could be funded in the near-term without it being included in a comprehensive package of trail designation and travel management actions such as the Proposed Action or Alternative 3.

The effects of No Action to plants, animals, and their habitats may be greater overall than the effects expected under the over Proposed Action or Alternative 3.

II-3.4 – Potential Effects of Alternative 3 Alternative 3 is the same as the Proposed Action with the addition of mixed use of vehicle types (street legal and OHV) on 3N14 between Big Pine Flats and 4N16.

The general effects to wildlife and botany resources from Alternative 3 would be the same as those described above for the Proposed Action. In addition, there is potential for increased OHV traffic on 3N14 which may have an impact on birds and other animals using the riparian areas along this stretch of road. The potential for noise disturbance would be slightly higher but this is not expected to be substantially greater than the existing condition. In a few spots, there may be road maintenance and brush trimming to enhance visibility along the roadway but this is expected to be along the road’s edge and would not adversely affect the integrity of the roadside habitat.

Alternative 3 would have the same beneficial effects as discussed under Part II-3.2.12 as a result of restoration/closure of unauthorized routes, reducing overall road/trail densities.

Page 48

PART III: BIOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT OF EFFECTS TO THREATENED, ENDANGERED, PROPOSED, AND CANDIDATE SPECIES

III-1.0 - INTRODUCTION This Biological Assessment (BA) part of this document addresses proposed and listed Threatened, Endangered (T/E) species and their proposed and designated Critical Habitat. Under agreement with USFWS, the Forest Service only addresses Candidate species in programmatic consultations. Because this is a project-level analysis, Candidate species are not addressed in the Biological Assessment. (There are no Candidate Species, Proposed Species, or Proposed Critical Habitat that may be affected by this Proposed Action).

The primary purpose of this BA is to determine the character of the effects, if any, on the species present in the action area. As noted in the USFWS Consultation Handbook (USFWS and National Marine Fisheries Service 1998: xvi), “no effect” determinations are appropriate where the Proposed Action would not affect a listed species or designated Critical Habitat. Where species are not present in the action area and no effects are reasonably certain to occur on the species, “no effect” is the appropriate determination for the site.

The Consultation Handbook clarifies that a “may affect, not likely to adversely affect” determination is appropriate where effects on listed species are “expected to be discountable, insignificant, or completely beneficial” (USFWS and National Marine Fisheries Service 1998: xv–xvi).

The Consultation Handbook further explains that “insignificant effects relate to the size of the impact and should never reach the scale where take occurs” (USFWS and National Marine Fisheries Service 1998:3–12). Conversely, where an effect is not discountable, insignificant, or completely beneficial or anticipated take is likely to occur as a result of the Proposed Action, the appropriate determination is “may affect, likely to adversely affect” (USFWS and National Marine Fisheries Service 1998: xv–xv).

The standard for determining whether or not an effect should be considered in the effects analysis is whether such effect is “reasonably certain to occur” (see 50 CFR 402.02, “Interagency Cooperation;” Final Rule, 51 Federal Register 19926, 19930–19934 [June 3, 1986]). Only those effects that are reasonably certain to occur are relevant to the effects analysis. That an effect is possible does not meet this standard; it must be shown that such effect is reasonably certain to occur to warrant consideration under ESA Section 7. The effects analysis must address the direct, indirect, interrelated, interdependent, and cumulative effects of an action.

In order to conduct an effects analysis for T/E plants and animals, there are many effects to consider, in addition to those within the footprint of the mine. These include effects of noise, human activities, vehicle traffic, vibrations, light, air quality, and changes in groundwater and surface water quality and quantity that could occur resulting from mining and associated activities.

Page 49

III-2.0 - CONSULTATIONS AND CONFERENCES TO DATE The Endangered Species Act (ESA) requires that federal agencies evaluate effects to federally- listed species and Critical Habitat in consultation with USFWS when proposing federal actions. A species list request was sent to USFWS on June 15, 2015. A response was received dated September 15, 2015. The species and information discussed in that letter were considered in this evaluation.

A request for species list from the Information for Planning and Conservation (IPaC) for this project was generated on June 15, 2015. The species included in the resource report (Consultation Code: 08ECAR00-2015-SLI-0483 Event Code: 08ECAR0-2015-E-01451) were considered in this Biological Assessment. No conservation measures were automatically generated by IPaC. The USFWS provided this list to the SBNF with the above-mentioned response letter dated September 15, 2015.

Several programmatic and project-specific consultations have set the stage for this consultation.

Programmatic Consultation on Forest Plans in 2000/2001 In 2000, the SBNF and the other National Forests in the Southern Province prepared a Programmatic BA for the existing Forest Plans at the time (USFS 2000). USFWS issued a Biological Opinion (1- 6-00-F-773.2) in 2001 (USFWS 2001a). The 2001 Forest Plan BO incorporated by reference the 1999 Riparian Consultation and kept in place the terms and conditions and the take statements from the 1999 Riparian Consultation.

Hazardous Fuels Management Programmatic Consultation 2004/2005 In 2004, the SBNF initiated consultation on the Forest’s fuels reduction and vegetation management programs (USFS 2004). A USFWS letter dated August 29, 2005 (FWS-SB/WRIV- 3468.2) included concurrence of the “not likely to adversely affect” determinations (by using the Proposed Action’s Design Features) for several species.

The formal consultation for this programmatic BA was withdrawn due to a change in strategies; no BO was written for the species with “may adversely affect” determinations and no “incidental take” statement was issued to the SBNF.

Carbonate Habitat Management Strategy Consultation 2005 (1-6-05-F-4319) Following the completion of the Carbonate Habitat Management Strategy in 2003, Consultation was jointly initiated in 2004 by the SBNF and BLM California Desert District on proposed implementation of the Strategy and associated effect to four Threatened and Endangered species endemic to carbonate soils in the San Bernardino Mountains. The 2005 Biological Opinion found that implementation of the strategy would not Jeopardize the four subject Carbonate Endemic Plant Species.

Programmatic Consultation on Forest Plan in 2005 In 2005, the SBNF and other the three Southern Province National Forests initiated consultation on the updated Forest Plans (Biological Assessment for the Revised Land Management Plans, dated March 18, 2005) (USFS 2005a). A BO was issued Sept. 15, 2005 (1-6-05-F733.9 – Page 50

Biological and Conference Opinions on the Revised Land and Resource Management Plans for the Four Southern California National Forests, California) (USFWS 2005).

That consultation did not cover site-specific ongoing effects from National Forest management and did not provide for incidental take. On June 9, 2006, USFWS adopted the Conference Opinions on the 2005 Forest Plan for Critical Habitat for southwestern willow flycatcher.

Programmatic Consultations for Forest Plan Ongoing Activities 2012/2013 The purpose of the programmatic ongoing activities Biological Assessments was to facilitate consultation with USFWS in response to a court order (CBD v. US Fish and Wildlife Service, No. 08-cv-1278 [E.D. Cal. 2008]). In that order, the court concluded the USFWS did not act in accordance with law when it failed to include incidental take statements in the programmatic biological opinion it had prepared for the revised Forest Plans for the four southern California National Forests, including the SBNF. Several programmatic BAs have been prepared to evaluate ongoing Forest Service management activities implementing the revised Forest Plans that are believed to be affecting the federally listed species.

These Section 7 consultations have been or are being conducted: 1. Riparian Obligate Species. In July 2008, the SBNF initiated consultation on the ongoing effects to eight riparian-dependent species; slender-horned spine flower, arroyo toad, mountain yellow-legged frog, unarmored threespine stickleback, southwestern willow flycatcher, least’s Bell’s vireo, San Bernardino kangaroo rat, and Santa Ana sucker. A BO was issued on December 6, 2012 (FWS-SB/WRlV-08B0680-09F0227).

In 2011, the SBNF requested that a separate BO be provided for the San Jacinto Ranger District’s recreation activities in MYLF habitat; this BO was issued on August 8, 2013. The BA and BO updated and replaced an earlier consultation for ongoing effects to riparian- dependent species (USFS 1998; USFWS 2000-1-6-99-F-21)

2. Desert Tortoise. The SBNF initiated consultation with USFWS on December 10, 2012. A BO (FWS-SB-13B0290-13F0277) was issued on May 10, 2013 (USFWS 2013a).

3. Coastal California gnatcatcher. The SBNF initiated consultation with USFWS on December 10, 2012. A letter of concurrence (FWS-SB-13B0247-1310210) was issued on April 12, 2013 (USFWS 2013b).

4. Peninsular bighorn sheep. The SBNF initiated consultation with USFWS on October 9, 2012. A letter of concurrence (FWS-ERIV-13B0044-1210242) was issued on May 13, 2013 (USFWS 2013c).

5. Quino checkerspot butterfly. The SBNF initiated consultation with USFWS on September 28, 2012. A BO (FWS-WRIV-12B0007-12F0010) was issued on May 3, 2013 (USFWS 2013d).

Page 51

6. Mountaintop Plants. In 1999/2000, the SBNF consulted with USWFS on the three groups of listed plants on the Mountaintop Ranger District (USFS 1999a, 1999b, 1999c, 2000). Three listed pebble plain plant species and five listed carbonate were included in Biological Opinions in 2001 (USFWS 2001b, USFWS 2001c). Four listed meadow plant species were included in Province Programmatic Forest Plan Biological Opinion in 2001 (USFWS 2001a).

On December 12, 2012, the SBNF initiated consultation with an updated BA (USFS 2012) that evaluated the ongoing effects to twelve listed species of plants on the Mountaintop Ranger District. This BO is pending at this time.

III-3.0 - BASELINE CONDITIONS AND POTENTIAL EFFECTS FOR THREATENED AND ENDANGERED SPECIES Part I of this document contains descriptions of the methods/evaluation process, the Proposed Action, and habitat in the analysis area. Part II includes general effects discussions that are applicable to T/E species.

Detailed species accounts for all of the T/E species are contained in the Forest Plan (USFS 2006); they are summarized here generally without citations. See the Forest Plan for full species accounts including the citations. Where new information is available, the baseline and life history information is updated.

The following discussions focus on T/E species known to occur in the analysis area, those that have a high likelihood of occurrence based on proximity to the analysis area or those that have modeled or suitable habitat present in or adjacent to the analysis area. This is based on records from Forest Service (NRIS), California Consortium of Herbaria, CNDDB, SBCM, SBNF, observations during surveys of the analysis area, and/or presence of modeled habitat mapped in or near the analysis area.

See Part II-3.1 for an explanation of Direct, Indirect, and Cumulative Effects. That section also contains discussions about present and foreseeable future projects that are considered in the Cumulative Effects discussions for each species. The Cumulative Effects discussions below include two definitions:  Under the NEPA, “cumulative impacts” are those effects caused by past, present, and future federal, state, and private activities within or onto special status species and their habitats.  Under the ESA, “cumulative effects” only consider future non-federal activities that are reasonably certain to occur. Future federal activities or activities permitted by federal agencies are not included under ESA “cumulative effects” because any proposed future federal activities or federally permitted activities must undergo future Section 7 consultation with the USFWS.

See PartsII-3.1 and 3.2.13 for a discussion of past and ongoing activities, current actions, and foreseeable future activities. Those discussions also apply to the following discussions. In this evaluation, past, present, and ongoing activities are addressed in the “baseline” discussions”.

Page 52

The “Federal Action Area” encompasses the maximum expected reach of direct and indirect effects of the project.

III-3.1 - Threatened and Endangered Plants – Proposed Action All Threatened and Endangered plant species and designated Critical Habitat in Table 5 were considered in this evaluation. Two T/E plant species and Critical Habitat occur in the action area (Figure 5).

The action area was surveyed at times when detectability was high (as confirmed at reference localities). Focused rare plant surveys were completed for the action area.

III-3.1.1– Cushenbury Puncturebract (Acanthoscyphus parishii var. goodmaniana) Life History and Baseline Conditions for Acanthoscyphus parishii var. goodmaniana: This Endangered annual member of the buckwheat family, formerly treated as Oxytheca parishii var. goodmaniana, is endemic to carbonate soils of the northeastern San Bernardino Mountains. This taxon ranges about 15 miles in total, from White Mountain on the west end, across the north slope of the San Bernardino Mountains, and upper Holcomb Valley, to Blackhawk Mountain and the slopes above Terrace Springs at the east end. From six to nine miles farther southeast from Terrace Springs, in the area of Tip Top Mountain and Mineral Mountain, there are several populations of Acanthoscyphus parishii on carbonate soils that are intermediate between the endangered variety goodmaniana and the Forest Service Sensitive variety cienegensis. These occurrences in the Tip Top Mountain area are not readily assignable to either variety.

There are a total of 663 mapped acres of habitat occupied by Acanthoscyphus parishii var. goodmaniana. Of this area, 588 acres are on National Forest System land under the management of the San Bernardino National Forest, 2 acres are on BLM land, and 73 acres are on private land (patented mining claims). Most of the federal lands occupied by this taxon are on the surface of unpatented mining claims.

About 30 of these 663 total mapped acres have been lost to open pit calcium carbonate mining and associated activities in the past 20 years, or are experiencing continued loss under fully approved and permitted mining projects. A total of approximately 1,600 acres of carbonate habitat within the range of Acanthoscyphus parishii var. goodmaniana has been lost to open pit calcium carbonate mining and associated activities, much of it before the 1990s, when concerted efforts began to accurately map this taxon’s distribution.

There are a total of 3,151 acres of designated Critical Habitat for Acanthoscyphus parishii var. goodmaniana. Of this area, 2,475 acres are on National Forest System land under the management of the San Bernardino National Forest, 80 acres are on BLM land, and 595 acres are on private land (patented mining claims).

Page 53

Table 5. Threatened, Endangered, Proposed, and Candidate Plant Species in the Action Area Species Name Common Name Occurrence Information* Critical Habitat Type Occurs In/Near Mountain- Front San Habitat On Analysis area top Country Jacinto SBNF Endangered Species Acanthoscyphus parishii var. Cushenbury puncturebract Y Designated Carbonate soils Y and CH goodmaniana Arenaria paludicola marsh sandwort N None Freshwater marsh N Astragalus albens Cushenbury milk vetch Y Designated Carbonate soils N Astragalus brauntonii Braunton’s milk-vetch N P Designated; Limestone soils in chaparral N not on SBNF Astragalus lentiginosus var. coachellae Coachella Valley milk vetch N P Designated; Sandy Sonoran desert scrub N not on SBNF Astragalus tricarinatus triple-ribbed milk-vetch N P P None Sandy/gravel, desert margin N Berberis nevinii Nevin's barberry N P P Proposed; Clay soils/vernally wet N none on areas SBNF Dodecahema leptoceras slender-horned spineflower N Y Y None Alluvial scrub N Eriastrum densifoloium subsp. sanctorum Santa Ana River woollystar N P None Alluvial scrub N Eriogonum ovalifolium var. vineum Cushenbury buckwheat Y Designated Carbonate soils Y and CH Nasturtium gambelii Gambel’s water cress N None Freshwater marsh N Poa atropurpurea San Bernardino bluegrass Y P P Designated Meadows N Physaria kingii subsp. bernardina San Bernardino Mtns. bladderpod Y Designated Carbonate soils N Sidalcea pedata bird's foot checkerbloom Y P None Meadows N californicum California taraxacum Y Y Designated Meadows N stenopetalum slender-petaled mustard Y None Meadows N Threatened Species Bear Valley sandwort Y Designated Pebble plain N Brodiaea filifolia thread-leaved brodiaea N P P Designated; Clay soils/vernally wet N not on SBNF areas Castilleja cinerea ash-gray Indian paintbrush Y Y Designated Pebble plains; openings in N conifer forest parishii Parish's daisy Y Designated Carbonate soils N Eriogonum kennedyi var. austromontanum southern mountain buckwheat Y Designated Pebble plain N *Occurrence Information: Y = Species is known to occur. P = Occurrence of the species is possible; suitable habitat exists, and/or the species is known from nearby locations. H = Part of the historical range but the species has been extirpated. U = Occurrence of the species is unlikely based on habitat present. N = Outside known distribution/range of the species. CH=Designated Critical Habitat

Page 54

Figure 5. Threatened/Endangered Plants and Designated Critical Habitat

Page 55

About 88 acres of these 3,151 critical habitat acres have been lost to open pit calcium carbonate mining and associated activities, or are experiencing continued loss under fully approved and permitted mining projects. 75 of these 88 acres are within the approved but not yet developed Mitsubishi Cement Cushenbury West Quarry. The remaining acres have either been lost to continued implementation of the SMI Arctic and Marble Canyon Quarries or are artifacts of critical habitat mapping and were lost to mining activities prior to designation.

Typical of annual buckwheats, this taxon exhibits high annual variability in population numbers in response to climate, mainly amount and timing of precipitation. Also typical of annual buckwheats, this taxon responds vigorously following fire, in population numbers, plant size, and reproductive output.

This taxon occurs on coarse-textured poorly-consolidated soils derived from limestone and other calcium-carbonate rocks (e.g. marble). It typically occurs on substrates with open habitat structure, away from tree or shrub canopies, and organic duff on the soil surface is low to absent.

The primary threat to the survival and recovery of this species is habitat loss associated with mining. Additional threats include competition from invasive plant species (especially cheatgrass), and ground disturbing activities such as maintenance of Forest System roads, unauthorized vehicle travel off of Forest Roads, operation and maintenance of non-recreation special uses (e.g. Edison Doble Circuit, State Highway 18), and wildfire suppression. For a more detailed discussion or the environmental baseline, and ongoing effects to this taxon, please refer to the Mountaintop Plants Ongoing Activities BA (USFS 2012).

Cheatgrass readily out-competes Acanthoscyphus parishii var. goodmaniana plants for space, light and soil resources, and it adversely alters the open structured low-organic characteristics of this taxon’s habitat. Cheatgrass thrives following fire, especially on disturbed ground, and can result in increased fire frequency for areas where it becomes well established. Invasion and spread of cheatgrass is further exacerbated by the ground disturbing activities listed above, creating the potential for a cycle of ground disturbance, invasion, and fire that may ultimately lead to permanent type-conversion of habitat. In the absence of substantial ground disturbance, however, carbonate habitats are relatively resistant to invasion by cheatgrass and other invasive plants by virtue of nutrient-poor, high pH soils with low water-holding capacity.

Occurrences in the Action Area: Occupied habitat of Acanthoscyphus parishii var. goodmaniana within the action area is limited to White Mountain, including White Mountain proper, South Peak, and the upper reaches of Dawn O’Day Canyon. There are a total of approximately 16 acres of occupied habitat, across eight occurrence patches, within the action area. All of the occupied habitat in the action area burned in the 1999 Willow Fire. Acanthoscyphus parishii var. goodmaniana has exhibited high resilience following this fire.

Approximately 130 acres of designated Critical Habitat for Acanthoscyphus parishii var. goodmaniana exist in the White Mountain area of the action area, from South Peak north to White Mountain proper.

Page 56

Effects To Acanthoscyphus parishii var. goodmaniana And Its Designated Critical Habitat: No new or changed trail designations are proposed within or adjacent to habitat for this species under the Proposed Action. The only effects of the Proposed Action would be associated with the restoration component. Application of design features would result in avoidance of all adverse effects. To the extent successful, blocking and restoring about 1 mile of unauthorized routes in the White Mountain area would improve habitat conditions for this species within designated critical habitat. With an average route width of approximately10 feet in this area, this would total about 1.2 acres where ongoing adverse effects of unauthorized travel off of NFTS roads, including crushing and uprooting individual plants, compacting soil, contribution to erosion, and weed risk, would be reduced or removed from the landscape.

Cumulative Effects to Acanthoscyphus parishii var. goodmaniana: See Part II-3.2.13 for a general discussion of current and foreseeable future activities.

There would be no adverse effects the Proposed Action. Therefore, there would be no cumulative effects.

Acanthoscyphus parishii var. goodmaniana – Determination of Effects: It is my determination that implementation of the Proposed Action would have wholly beneficial effects to Acanthoscyphus parishii var. goodmaniana and its designated Critical Habitat. Wholly beneficial effects fall under a “may affect – not likely to adversely affect” determination and require informal consultation under Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act.

III-3.1.2– Eriogonum ovalifolium var. vineum (Cushenbury buckwheat) Life History and Baseline Conditions: This Endangered perennial member of the buckwheat family is endemic to carbonate soils of the northeastern San Bernardino Mountains. This taxon ranges about 25 miles in total, from North Peak of White Mountain on the west end, eastward across the north slope of the San Bernardino Mountains, and upper Holcomb Valley, to Blackhawk Mountain and Terrace Springs, then southeast to Mineral Mountain. There are two disjunct occurrence groups to the south of the main distribution axis, one at Bertha Ridge (4 mi south of the main axis) and the other at Heartbreak Ridge (about 1.5 mi south of the axis).

There are a total of 1,403 mapped acres of habitat occupied by Eriogonum ovalifolium var. vineum. Of this area, 1,106 acres are on National Forest System land under the management of the San Bernardino National Forest, 77 acres are on BLM land, and 221 acres are on private land (mostly on patented mining claims). Most of the federal lands occupied by this taxon are on the surface of unpatented mining claims.

About 81 of these 1,403 total mapped acres have been lost to open pit calcium carbonate mining and associated activities in the past 20 years, or are experiencing continued loss under fully approved and permitted mining projects. About 46 of these 81 acres are within the approved but not yet developed Mitsubishi Cement Cushenbury West Quarry. A total of approximately 1,600 acres of carbonate habitat within the range of Eriogonum ovalifolium var. vineum has been lost to open pit calcium carbonate mining and associated activities, much of it before the 1990s, when concerted efforts began to accurately map this taxon’s distribution.

Page 57

There are a total of 6,959 acres of designated critical habitat for Eriogonum ovalifolium var. vineum. Of this area, 5,449 acres are on National Forest System land under the management of the San Bernardino National Forest, 417 acres are on BLM land, and 1,092 acres are on private land (mostly on patented mining claims).

About 148 acres of these 6,959 critical habitat acres have been lost to open pit calcium carbonate mining and associated activities, or are experiencing continued loss under fully approved and permitted mining projects. 125 of these 148 acres are within the approved but not yet developed Mitsubishi Cement Cushenbury West Quarry. The remaining acres have either been lost to continued implementation of the SMI Arctic and Marble Canyon Quarries or are artifacts of critical habitat mapping and were lost to mining activities prior to designation.

This taxon occurs on coarse-textured poorly-consolidated soils derived from limestone and other calcium-carbonate rocks (e.g. marble). It typically occurs on substrates with open habitat structure, away from tree or shrub canopies, and organic duff on the soil surface is low to absent.

The primary threat to the survival and recovery of this species is habitat loss associated with mining. Additional threats include competition from invasive plant species (especially cheatgrass), and ground disturbing activities maintenance of Forest System roads, unauthorized vehicle travel off of Forest Roads, operation and maintenance of non-recreation special uses (e.g. Edison Doble Circuit, State Highway 18), and wildfire suppression. For a more detailed discussion or the environmental baseline, and ongoing effects to this taxon, please refer to the Mountaintop Plants Ongoing Activities BA (USFS 2012).

Occurrences in the Action Area: Occupied habitat of Eriogonum ovalifolium var. vineum within the action area is limited to White Mountain proper. It occurs near North Peak of White Mountain outside of the project area, but does not extend to South Peak as does Acanthoscyphus parishii var. goodmaniana. There are a total of approximately 4 acres of occupied habitat, across three occurrence patches, at White Mountain. All of the occupied habitat in the action area burned in the 1999 Willow Fire. Eriogonum ovalifolium var. vineum has exhibited low resilience following this fire, and has persisted mainly where plants were likely sheltered from severe fire effects (e.g. on rocky outcrops).

Approximately 54 acres of designated Critical Habitat for Eriogonum ovalifolium var. vineum exist in on White Mountain within the action area.

Effects To Eriogonum ovalifolium var. vineum And Its Designated Critical Habitat: No new or changed trail designations are proposed within or adjacent to habitat for this species under the Proposed Action. The only effects of the Proposed Action would be associated with the restoration component. Application of design features would result in avoidance of all adverse effects. To the extent successful, blocking and restoring about ¼ mile of unauthorized routes on White Mountain area would improve habitat conditions for this species within designated critical habitat. With an average route width of approximately10 feet in this area, this would total about 0.3 acres where ongoing adverse effects of unauthorized travel off of NFTS roads, including crushing and uprooting individual plants, compacting soil, contribution to erosion, and weed risk, would be reduced or removed from the landscape. Page 58

Cumulative Effects to Eriogonum ovalifolium var. vineum: See Part II-3.2.13 for a general discussion of current and foreseeable future activities.

There would be no adverse effects of the Proposed Action. Therefore, there would be no cumulative effects.

Eriogonum ovalifolium var. vineum – Determination of Effects: It is my determination that implementation of the Proposed Action would have wholly beneficial effects to Eriogonum ovalifolium var. vineum and its designated Critical Habitat. Wholly beneficial effects fall under a “may affect – not likely to adversely affect” determination and require informal consultation under Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act.

III-3.1.3 – Summary for T/E Plants and Critical Habitat Effects to Acanthoscyphus parishii var. goodmaniana and Eriogonum ovalifolium var. vineum and their designated Critical Habitat would occur through implementation of this Proposed Action. The project Design Features would ensure avoidance of adverse effects, and all expected effects would be wholly beneficial.

III-3.2 - Threatened and Endangered Plants – No Action Under the No Action alternative, no effects to T/E Plant Species or Critical Habitat are expected to occur relative to the baseline condition. The discussion of the No Action Alternative in II-3.3 is applicable for all T/E plant species that occur in the analysis area.

III-3.3 - Threatened and Endangered Plants – Alternative 3 Alternative 3 is the same as the Proposed Action with the addition of mixed use of vehicle types (street legal and non-street legal) on 3N14 between Big Pine Flats and 4N16A (the road to Horse Springs Campground). The effects to T/E plants would be the same as those described above for the Proposed Action.

III-3.4 – Threatened and Endangered Wildlife – Proposed Action Table 6 lists the current T/E animals known from the SBNF; they are all considered in this evaluation. Detailed species accounts for all of the T/E species are contained in the Forest Plan.

One federally-listed species, the California condor, is known from the analysis area. The analysis area has some small areas that may be suitable for desert tortoise. No suitable or modeled habitat occurs in the analysis area for any other federally-listed animal. No Critical Habitat is present or proposed in the analysis area.

Page 59

Table 6. Threatened, Endangered, Proposed, And Candidate Wildlife Species for Analysis area COMMON NAME LATIN NAME OCCURRENCE INFORMATION* HABITAT TYPE** CRITICAL OCCURRENCE Mountain- Front San HABITAT IN ANALYSIS AREA? top Country Jacinto ON SBNF ENDANGERED SPECIES Quino checkerspot butterfly Euphydryas editha quino N N Y c Designated N – outside known distribution unarmored threespine stickleback Gasterosteus aculeatus williamsoni Y H N aq N – no suitable habitat arroyo toad Anaxyrus californicus Y Y Y d,aq,r Designated N – no suitable habitat mountain yellow-legged frog Rana muscosa Y Y Y r, aq Designated N – no suitable habitat California condor Gymnogyps californianus Y Y H mc,g,c,a,rk,wo P southwestern willow flycatcher Empidonax trailii extimus Y Y Y r,m Designated N – no suitable habitat least Bell's vireo Vireo bellii pusillus N Y P r,m N – no suitable habitat San Bernardino kangaroo rat Dipodomys merriami parvus N Y Y w Designated N – outside known distribution Stephens’ kangaroo rat Dipodomys stephensi N N L g N – outside known distribution peninsular bighorn sheep Ovis Canadensis nelsoni N N Y wo, rk, d Designated N – outside known distribution THREATENED SPECIES Santa Ana sucker Catostomus santannae N H N aq Designated N-no suitable habitat California red-legged frog Rana draytonii H H N r,aq N-no suitable habitat desert tortoise Gopherus agassizii Y P Y d P coastal California gnatcatcher Polioptila californica californica N P P c N – outside known distribution FEDERAL CANDIDATE SPECIES western yellow-billed cuckoo Coccyzus americanus P P P r N/A N – no suitable habitat *Occurrence Information: **HABITAT TYPES/HABITAT COMPONENTS d = desert; Joshua tree woodlands, creosote bush Y = Species is known to occur. a = aerial; usually seen in flight, often over several habitat types scrub, blackbrush scrub P = Occurrence of the species is possible; suitable habitat exists, and/or the r = riparian (streamside thickets and woodlands) aq = aquatic; lakes, reservoirs, ponds, vernal species is known from nearby locations. g = grasslands, fields, and agricultural areas pools/puddles B = Species is known or likely to nest in the area. M = The species uses the area during migration as a stopover. m = marshes, meadows; both freshwater areas and moist u = urbanized areas H = Part of the historical range but the species has been extirpated. meadows w = washes and alluvial fans U = Occurrence of the species is unlikely based on habitat present. c = chaparral and coastal sage scrub rk = cliffs and rocky outcrops N = Outside known distribution/range of the species. wo = woodlands; pinyon-juniper, oaks s = snags and cavities mc = mixed conifer forests; Jeffrey pine, ponderosa pine, bigcone Douglas fir, coulter pine, sugar pine, white fir overstory

Page 60

III-3.4.1 – California Condor (Gymnogyps californianus) The California condor is both federally- and state-listed as an Endangered species. Critical Habitat was designated in 1976 but none is present in the analysis area. A Recovery Plan exists for this species.

Life History and Baseline Information for California Condor: From 100,000 to 10,000 years ago, the California condor ranged widely; with the of the large Pleistocene mammals, the species declined in range and numbers. Condor remains reveal that the species once ranged over much of western , and as far east as Florida. Until about 2,000 years ago, the species nested in west , New , and . When European settlers arrived on the Pacific coast of North America in the early 1800s, California condors occurred from British Columbia to Baja California, and also occasionally ranged into the American southwest.

Historically, California condors occurred in the Coast Ranges of California from Santa Clara and San Mateo Counties south to Ventura County, and east to the western slope of the Sierra and Tehachapi Mountains. It occurred primarily from sea level to 9,000 feet and nested at 2,000- 6,500 feet. Almost all of the historic nest sites used by California condors are located on the Los Padres, Angeles, and Sequoia National Forests.

California condor nesting sites are typically located in chaparral, conifer forest, or oak woodland communities. Historically, condors nested on bare ground in caves and crevices, behind rock slabs, or on large ledges or potholes on high sandstone cliffs in isolated, extremely steep, rugged areas. Cavities in giant sequoia (Sequoiadendron giganteum) have also been used. The nest site is often surrounded by dense brush.

The appearance of many nest sites suggests that they have been long used, perhaps for centuries, whereas other apparently suitable sites in undisturbed areas show no signs of condor use. Characteristics of condor nests include:  large enough entrances for the adults to fit through;  a ceiling height of at least 14.8 inches at the egg position;  fairly level floors with some loose surface substrate;  un-constricted nest site for incubating adults; and  a nearby landing point.

Condors often return to traditional sites for perching and resting. Traditional roost sites include cliffs and large trees and snags (roost trees are often conifer snags 40-70 feet tall, often near feeding and nesting areas. Condors may remain at the roost site until midmorning, and generally return in mid- to late afternoon.

Most foraging occurs in open terrain of foothills, grasslands, potreros with chaparral areas, or oak savannah habitats. Historically, foraging also occurred on beaches and large rivers along the Pacific coast. Water is required for drinking and bathing.

California condors typically breed every other year, but can breed annually if they are not caring for dependent young. California condors usually lay a single egg between late January and early

Page 61

April. The egg is incubated by both parents and hatches after approximately 56 days. Both parents share responsibilities for feeding the nestling. Feeding usually occurs daily for the first 2 months, and then gradually diminishes in frequency. Juvenile condors leave the nest at 2-3 months of age, but remain in the vicinity of the nest and under their parents' care for up to a year. California condors are non-migratory. California condors are capable of extended flights (more than 100 miles in a day).

California condors are opportunistic scavengers, feeding exclusively on the carcasses of dead animals. Typical foraging behavior includes long-distance reconnaissance flights, lengthy circling flights over a carcass, and hours of waiting at a roost or on the ground near a carcass. California condors locate food by visual rather than olfactory cues, and require fairly open areas for feeding, allowing ease in approaching and leaving a carcass. California condors typically feed only 1-3 days per week.

Seasonal foraging behavior shifts may be the result of climatic cycles or changes in food availability. California condors maintain wide-ranging foraging patterns (i.e., at least 2.8 to 11.6 square miles) throughout the year, an important strategy for a species that may be subjected to unpredictable food supplies.

Historically, condors probably fed on mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus), elk (Cervus elaphus), pronghorn antelope (Antilocarpa americana), and various marine mammals. More recently, domestic livestock made up the majority of their diet. (Source: USFS 2006 Forest Plan Species Account)

Population Status and Threats: The California condor has been one of the most highly endangered bird species in the world throughout its modern history. As the result of an aggressive management program, including capture of the last six individuals remaining in the wild in 1986-87, captive breeding, and reintroduction of captive progeny, the total population continues to increase from the low point in 1982-82, when only 21-22 individuals were thought to survive. The 9/30/12 California condor status report by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service showed a total population of 410 individuals, including 180 in captivity and 230 in the wild.

A high number of birds are still being lost to poisoning from lead ingested from carcasses, and this factor may preclude rapid recovery of the species in some areas. The ingestion of trash items, including glass fragments, china, plastic, and metal bottle tops, and non-digestible natural items such as small rocks, sticks, grass, wool, and fur, is a serious problem for condor chicks in California nests. (http://globalraptors.org/grin/SpeciesResults.asp?specID=8258)

Factors that led to California condor's century-long decline included illegal collection of adults and their eggs; poisoning by substances used to eradicate livestock predators; poisoning from ingestion of lead fragments of bullets embedded in animal carcasses; other forms of poisoning (DDT, cyanide, strychnine, compound 1080, antifreeze from car radiators); shooting; and collisions with structures such as transmission lines. In addition, the roads, cities, housing tracts, and weekend mountain retreats of modern civilization have replaced much of the open country condors need to find food. Their slow rate of reproduction and maturation undoubtedly make the California condor population as a whole more vulnerable to these threats. Page 62

Viability is a definite concern due to the extremely small population and vulnerability to many factors. Greatest among these are shooting, lead contamination, collision with overhead transmission lines and towers, trash, and general human disturbance (USFS 2006 Forest Plan Species Account).

Rideout et al. (2012) documented the causes of death of free-ranging California condors between 1992 (the beginning of the reintroduction program) through 2009. Out of 76 dead condors for which the cause of death could be determined, 70% were from anthropogenic causes. Ingestion of trash was the most important cause of death for nestlings, and lead toxicosis was the most important factor for juveniles and adults. Other causes of death identified included: copper toxicosis (possibly from cattle troughs treated with copper sulfate to control algae), west Nile virus, powerline electrocution, powerline collision, ethylene glycol (antifreeze) ingestion, rattlesnake bite, predation, and gunshot.

Occurrence in the Analysis area – California Condor: California condors have been observed at several locations in the San Bernardino Mountains since 2002, including the sighting of two condors in the White Mountain area near the analysis area. USFWS records of radio-tagged condors suggest that as S. California’s condor population continues to grow, the areas they cover is expanding. Condors appear to be traveling long distances from the main population sites on the coast on a more frequent basis.

While regular use nesting is not currently known from the North Slope, it may occur in the future. No suitable nesting sites occur in the analysis area but there may be some suitable sites on the rugged North Slope terrain in close proximity. Foraging may occur within the analysis areas on an infrequent basis, and may increase in frequency as the population expands or if closer nest sites are established.

At this time, occurrences in and near the analysis area are considered very infrequent. This may change over time as the population expands.

Potential Effects to California Condor: If California condors were present in the project area, construction or use of the trail system could result in disturbance. The entire analysis area could be used for foraging. The proposed project would result in net gains of foraging habitat through the restoration of user-created trails. With reduced trail densities, the likelihood of disturbance to foraging condors may be lower. See Part II-3.2 for the discussion of effects common to wildlife species. Cliff/rock outcrop habitat that is suitable for nesting would not be affected by the Rattlesnake OHV project. Death or injury of condors would not be expected as a result of the proposed project.

Because of the rarity of this species in the analysis area and because of the lack of suitable nesting habitat in close vicinity (and, thus, the low likelihood of foraging becoming a regular event in the analysis area), the effects would be expected to be negligible for this species.

Cumulative Effects for California Condor: See Part II-3.1.3 for a discussion of current and foreseeable future activities. There are many existing and ongoing threats to California condors, Page 63

as described above. The risk to condors from man-made factors (trash, toxins, shooting, electrocution, and collisions) will continue and may increase in the foreseeable future as human populations in southern California grow.

Perhaps the greatest threat to condors in the foreseeable future is the expansion of renewable energy developments (solar and wind) throughout current condor’s distribution as well as in areas where condors are expected to expand as the population continues to grow. The Bureau of Land Management has seen a surge in wind energy applications. Their website has data tables and maps displaying areas with existing applications for renewable energy projects (http://www.blm.gov/ca/st/en/prog/energy/wind.html).

Since this project is unlikely to result in effects to condors, there are no cumulative effects.

California Condor – Determination of Effects: California condors are such infrequent visitors to the San Bernardino Mountains and nesting is unlikely to occur in the action area in the future due to lack of suitable nest sites. It is my determination that implementation of either of the action alternatives would have no effect on California condors. Thus, for this project, Endangered Species Act Section 7 consultation with USFWS is not necessary.

III-3.4.2 – Desert Tortoise (Gopherus agassizii) The desert tortoise was federally-listed as threatened in 1990 (55 FR 12178) and listed as threatened under the California Endangered Species Act in 1989. The desert tortoise has a revised Recovery Plan (USFWS 2011). Critical habitat for the desert tortoise was designated on February 8, 1994 (59 FR 5820). No designated or proposed Critical Habitat for desert tortoise occurs on or near the SBNF.

The desert tortoise was treated as one species for 150 years despite a large range and apparent differences in appearance, life history, geographical distribution, and habitat preferences. In 2011, genetic studies confirmed suspicions that there are two distinct species. The Agassiz’s desert tortoise (Gopherus agassizii) is found west and north of the River in , Nevada, northern Arizona and California. The newly-recognized species, Morafka’s desert tortoise (Gopherus morafkai) is found east and south of the Colorado River, from Arizona and California (http://www.usgs.gov/newsroom/article.asp?ID=2842&from=rss).

Life History and Baseline Information for Desert Tortoise: The desert tortoise is a large, herbivorous reptile and the only naturally occurring tortoise in the Mojave Desert. Large individuals can reach 15 inches in length. Their shells are generally highly domed and unhinged (Stebbins 1985); some variation in the shape of the shell occurs among individuals, particularly across its range. Desert tortoises in California have a box-like shell shape and are generally higher-domed than those in Utah (http://www.werc.usgs.gov/outreach.aspx?recordid=82).

Desert tortoises occur in the California desert from below sea level to an elevation of 7,300 feet, but the most typical habitat is below 5,500 feet (USFWS 2011). The desert tortoise is most commonly found within the desert scrub vegetation type, primarily in creosote bush scrub vegetation, but also in succulent scrub, cheesebush scrub, blackbush scrub, hopsage scrub, shadscale scrub, microphyll woodland, and Mojave saltbush-allscale scrub (USFWS 1994). Page 64

Desert creosote bush is often present in occupied habitat (Stebbins 1985). Creosote bush (Larrea tridentata), burrobush (Ambrosia dumosa), Mojave yucca (Yucca schidigera), and blackbrush (Coleogyne ramosissima) generally distinguish desert tortoise habitat. At higher elevations, Joshua tree (Yucca brevifolia) and big galleta grass (Pleuraphis rigida) are common indicators of tortoise habitat (USFWS 1994).

Within these vegetation types, desert tortoises potentially can survive and reproduce where their basic habitat requirements are met. Throughout most of the Mojave Region, tortoises occur most commonly on gently sloping terrain with soils ranging from sand to sandy-gravel and with scattered shrubs, and where there is abundant inter-shrub space for growth of herbaceous plants. Throughout their range, however, tortoises can be found in steeper, rockier areas. This species normally excavates a burrow under bushes, overhanging soil or rock formations, or digs into soil in the open.

Desert tortoises in the Mojave Desert are primarily active between May and June, with a secondary activity period from September through October. During inactive periods, tortoises hibernate, aestivate, or rest in subterranean burrows or caliche caves, spending as much as 98 percent of their time underground (USFWS 1994). During active periods, they usually spend nights and the hotter portion of the day in their burrow. Tortoises construct and maintain a series of single opening burrows, which may average from 7 to 12 burrows at a given time (USFWS 1994).

Distribution: Prior to the split into two species, the range was considered to cover deserts in portions of the California, Arizona, Nevada, Utah, and Sonora and Sinaloa, Mexico. However, the Agassiz’s desert tortoise is only found in California, the extreme southern Nevada, and extreme southern Utah, and extreme northwest Arizona (areas west and north of the Colorado River in Utah, northern Nevada, and California (http://www.californiaherps.com/turtles/pages/ g.agassizii.html) ( Figure 6).

Range-wide Trends and Current Threats: Common ravens, gila monsters (Heloderma suspectum), kit foxes (Vulpes macrotis), badgers (Taxidea taxus), roadrunners (Geococcyx californianus), and coyotes are all natural predators of the desert tortoise. These predators typically prey upon 2- to 3-inch long juveniles, which have a thin, delicate shell (USFWS 1994).

Desert tortoise decline is attributed to destruction and degradation of habitat by urbanization, agriculture, mining, livestock grazing, and off-road vehicle activity; predation; and disease.

The number of desert tortoises within the Western Mojave Recovery Unit (of which the SBNF is part of) has continued to decline since the time of listing, although no recovery unit-wide surveys have been conducted that would allow us to estimate actual numbers of individuals. The factors which led to the listing of the desert tortoise continue to cause declines in numbers and loss of habitat. Conversion of the native habitats into urban and agricultural areas has continued; the indirect effects of these land uses continue to cause the loss of individuals at the boundaries with desert habitat.

Page 65

Figure 6. Desert Tortoise Distribution Source: http://www.usgs.gov/newsroom/images/ 2011_06_28/tortoise_spp_map.jpg

Upper respiratory tract disease, which prompted the emergency listing of the desert tortoise, has continued to spread across the recovery unit. At least some common ravens (Corvus corax) continue to consume large numbers of young desert tortoises. Although some roads have been fenced to prevent entry by desert tortoises, individuals continue to be killed by vehicular traffic.

Desert tortoises occur in low numbers along the northern edge of the San Bernardino Mountains and at the Baldy Mesa area in the transition zone with the San Gabriel Mountains. Most NFS lands near the desert’s edge are at higher elevations than desert tortoises typically inhabit. However, while much of the literature suggests an upper elevational range of 4,200 feet, SBNF records are from higher (up to 5,600’).

The Recovery Plan (USFWS 2011) for desert tortoise listed a number of threats for this species, including those that result in mortality and permanent habitat loss across large areas, such as urbanization, and those that fragment and degrade habitats, such as proliferation of roads and highways, off-highway vehicle activity, poor grazing management, and habitat invasion by nonnative invasive species. Indirect impacts to desert tortoise populations and habitat are also known to occur in areas that interface with intense human activity.

Another threat is the increased frequency of wildfire due to the changes in desert plant communities from invasions by non-native plant species. These changes affect fire frequency and can negatively affect the desert tortoise by altering habitat structure and species available as Page 66

food plants. Off-highway vehicle activity, roads, livestock grazing, agricultural uses, and other activities contribute to the spread of non-native species.

Landfills potentially affect desert tortoises and their habitat through fragmentation/loss of habitat, introduction of toxins/trash, increased road kill of tortoises on access roads, and increased predator populations. Large-scale renewable energy projects have been approved and proposed within desert tortoise habitat, threatening more effects to habitat and tortoises. Additional threats include disease and predation, illegal collections, and climate change.

Occurrences in the Analysis area – Desert Tortoise: The desert tortoise habitat north of the San Bernardino Mountains is delineated in the Recovery Plan as the “western Mojave recovery unit” (with the boundary being defined by the actual distributional limit of the desert tortoise) (USFWS 2011).

Systematic protocol-level surveys have not been conducted on the SBNF for this species. Because of the transition to unsuitable habitat and being on the periphery of the species distribution, tortoise populations on the SBNF are likely at very low densities.

Much of the Mountaintop District’s northern and eastern edges between Silverwood Lake on the west and Rattlesnake Canyon on the east are also presumed to be occupied in low densities. Tortoises are known from desert habitat adjacent to the Forest boundary and similar habitat occurs on the adjacent NFS lands. The densities are likely low and it is considered the periphery of the desert tortoise distribution. Because of the proximity of known occurrences and presence of suitable habitat, the SBNF considers areas adjacent to occupied habitat that support suitable habitat and topography (roughly under 5600’ in elevation and not extremely steep) as “presumed occupied”.

A small portion of the analysis area in the Arrastre Canyon vicinity near the SBNF boundary has been delineated as possibly suitable for this species. Desert tortoises are not currently known from the analysis area and the areas around the proposed trails are not suitable.

Potential Effects to Desert Tortoise: No direct or indirect effects to tortoises or their habitat would be expected within the analysis area. The proposed project would not be expected to affect habitat quality or availability.

Cumulative Effects – Desert Tortoise: See Part II-3.1.3 for a discussion of cumulative effects. Past actions and natural events within the Mojave Desert (e.g., development, urbanization, and drought) have resulted in impacts to desert tortoises. Current and foreseeable future non-federal actions that may result in additional impacts to tortoise are the result of increasing development of non-federal lands in the Coachella Valley, Lucerne Valley, Antelope Valley areas. As commercial and residential development continues, demands on adjacent public lands are expected to increase. This will bring more people and higher levels of impacts to those sites, especially those with easy access. The previous discussion of the types of impacts expected from recreation activities applies here. It is impossible to quantify the level of expected effects because development rates depend on the economy and many other factors. Certainly large-scale

Page 67

residential developments planned for areas very close to known occurrences have the greatest potential for significant impacts.

Greater human populations are likely to result in a number of effects to desert tortoises including more risk of poaching, increased raven populations (drawn to more trash and water sources) resulting in more predation, more harassment by pets on the urban interface and with recreating public, more harassment by feral dogs being “dumped” in the desert, greater risk of collision/injury from vehicles, etc.

Renewable energy projects, such as solar and wind energy, mineral exploration, and increases in military training areas within the Mojave Desert may have the greatest potential for large-scale effects to tortoises and their habitats. A number of solar and wind energy projects have been approved, are pending, or have applications submitted for sites in desert tortoise habitat (USFWS 2011). Project impacts would contribute to the incremental mortality of, and loss of habitat for, desert tortoises when combined with the effects of mortality and loss of habitat caused by other past and reasonably foreseeable projects, and therefore, would be cumulatively considerable.

Because the proposed project is not expected to affect desert tortoises or their habitat, there are no cumulative effects.

Desert Tortoise – Determination of Effects: It is my determination that implementation of the Proposed Action and alternatives as described would have no effect on desert tortoises. Thus, for this project, Endangered Species Act Section 7 consultation with USFWS is not necessary.

III-3.5 - Threatened and Endangered Wildlife –No Action If No Action is taken, the conditions for federally-listed animals in the analysis area would remain the same.

III–3.6 – Threatened and Endangered Wildlife-Alternative 3 Alternative 3 is the same as the Proposed Action with the addition of mixed use of vehicle types (street legal and non-street legal) on 3N14 between Big Pine Flats and 4N16A (the road to Horse Springs Campground). The implementation of Alternative 3 would not be expected to affect any Threatened or endangered wildlife.

III-4.0 – SUMMARY OF DETERMINATION OF EFFECTS FOR T/E SPECIES Table 7. Summary of Determination of Effects for T/E Species for BSQ Project Species Federal Status Determination of Determination of Effects – Take Effects – Species 1 Critical Habitat Expected Acanthosycphus parishii var. Endangered NLAA NLAA n/a goodmaniana (wholly beneficial) (wholly beneficial) Eriogonum ovalifolium var. Endangered NLAA NLAA n/a vineum (wholly beneficial) (wholly beneficial) Desert Tortoise Threatened NE n/a No California Condor Endangered NE n/a No 1 NE=No Effect; NLAA = Not Likely To Adversely Affect; MA=May Affect

Page 68

Consultation Requirements: Formal consultation under Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act will not be conducted for this project. Informal consultation will be conducted, and concurrence will be requested for the findings of wholly beneficial effects to listed plants and their designated critical habitat.

Page 69

PART IV: BIOLOGICAL EVALUATION OF EFFECTS TO FOREST SERVICE SENSITIVE SPECIES

IV-1.0 – INTRODUCTION Part I of this document contains descriptions of the methods/evaluation process, Proposed Action, and alternatives for this project. Part II addresses general wildlife and plant species, Watchlist species, and effects that are common to those species as well as special status species that are discussed in depth in Parts III, IV, and V.

This part, Part IV, covers direct, indirect, and cumulative effects to species on the Region 5 Forest Service Sensitive species list. Detailed species accounts for all of the Sensitive species discussed below are contained in the Forest Plan, with updated accounts available in the project record; relevant species account information is summarized in the following discussions. References are included in the full Forest Plan species accounts and generally are not repeated here. The Forest Plan species accounts and updated species accounts (in Project Record) are incorporated by reference.

See Part II-3.2 for an explanation of Direct, Indirect, and Cumulative Effects. That section also contains discussions about present and foreseeable future projects that are considered in the Cumulative Effects discussions for each species.

IV-1.1 – Sensitive Plants – Proposed Action See the existing environment described in Part II-2.0 and the effects analyses common to general vegetation and special status plant species in Part II-3.2

Table 8 contains a list of the Forest Service Sensitive species that were considered in this analysis and those that are known to occur in or near the analysis area. Figure 7 displays the occurrences of Sensitive plants in the project area.

IV-1.1.1 – Abronia nana var. covillei (Coville’s Dwarf Sand Verbena) Abronia nana var. covillei is in the four o'clock family (Nyctaginaceae). It is a densely tufted perennial species that blooms May through August. This species occurs mainly in the eastern San Bernardino Mountains, with widely scattered records from the White and Inyo Mountains and the higher mountains of the Mojave Desert. Occurrences are closely associated with carbonate soils, with generally dry and open forest or woodland vegetation. In the San Bernardino Mountains, this species occurs across the northern and eastern slopes of the range mainly on limestone or marble-derived soils, and on dolomite-derived soils at Bertha Ridge and Sugarlump.

Abronia nana var. covillei is found growing in sub-alpine mixed coniferous forest, pinyon- juniper and Joshua tree woodlands, dry conifer forests, and Great Basin scrub at elevations of 5,000-10,200 feet. The plants are usually found on dry slopes or flats, on sandy soils often of carbonate origin. On the SBNF, A. nana var. covillei occupies carbonate and mixed carbonate/granite substrates (e.g., alluvium and colluvium).

Page 70

Table 8. Sensitive Plant Species - Occurrences within the Reach of Potential Effects from the Proposed Rattlesnake OHV Project Species Name Common Name Occurrence Information Mountaintop Front Country San Jacinto Occurs In/ Near District District District Analysis Area Abronia nana var. covillei Coville’s dwarf abronia Y Y Abronia villosa var. aurita chaparral sand verbena Y Acanthoscyphus parishii var. cienegensis Cienega Seca puncturebract Y P Allium marvinii Yucaipa onion P marginata white-margined everlasting Y Y glandulosa subsp. gabrielensis San Gabriel Manzanita Y Arctostaphylos parryana subsp. tumescens interior manzanita Y Arenaria lanuginosa subsp. saxosa rock sandwort Y Y Astragalus bernardinus San Bernardino milkvetch Astragalus bicristatus crested milk vetch Y P Y Y Astragalus lentiginosus var. antonius San Antonio milk vetch Y Astragalus lentiginosus var. sierrae San Bernardino Mountians milk vetch Y P Y Astragalus pachypus var. jaegeri Jeager's milkvetch Y Astragalus tidestromii Tidestrom’s milkvetch Atriplex parishii Parish’s brittlescale P P Boechera johnstonii Johnston’s rockcress Y Boechera parishii Parish's rock cress Y Y Boechera peirsonii San Bernardino rockcress Y Boechera shockleyi Shockley's rock-cress Y Y Botrychium crenulatum scalloped moonwort Y Y P Calochortus palmeri var. munzii Munz's mariposa lily Y Calochortus palmeri var. palmeri Palmer's mariposa lily Y P Y Calochortus striatus alkali mariposa lily P Calyptridium pygmaeum pygmy pussypaws Y candida pygmy poppy Y Y Castilleja lasiorhyncha San Bernardino Mountains owl's clover Y P Y Castilleja plagiotoma Mojave paintbrush Y P Y Caulanthus simulans Payson's jewelflower P Y Chorizanthe parryi var. parryi Parry's spineflower P P Chorizanthe xanti var. leucotheca white-bracted spineflower Y Cladium californicum California saw grass Y Claytonia lanceolata var. piersonii Pierson’s spring beauty Y Deinandra mohavensis Mojave tarplant P P Y

Page 71

Table 8. Sensitive Plant Species - Occurrences within the Reach of Potential Effects from the Proposed Rattlesnake OHV Project Species Name Common Name Occurrence Information Mountaintop Front Country San Jacinto Occurs In/ Near District District District Analysis Area Delphinium hesperium subsp. cuyamacae Cuyamaca larkspur Y Dieteria canescens var. ziegleri Ziegler's aster Y Draba saxosa rock draba Y Drymocallis cuneifolia var. cuneifolia wedgeleaf woodbeauty Y Dudleya abramsii subsp. affinis San Bernardino Mts. dudleya Y Y Ericameria parryi var. imula Parry’s rabbitbrush Y Eriogonum evanidum vanishing wild buckwheat Y Eriogonum kennedyi var. alpigenum southern alpine buckwheat Y Eriogonum microthecum var. johnstonii Johnston’s buckwheat Y Y Eriogonum microthecum var. lacus-ursi Bear Lake buckwheat P Galium angustifolium subsp. jacinticium San Jacinto Mts bedstraw Y Galium californicum subsp. primum California bedstraw Y Gentiana fremontii moss gentian Y leptantha subsp. leptantha San Bernardino gilia Y Y Heuchera abramsii Abrams’ alumroot P Heuchera caespitosa urn-flowered alumroot Y Heuchera hirsutissima shaggy-haired alum root Y Heuchera parishii Parish's alumroot Y Y Y Horkelia cuneata subsp. puberula mesa horkelia P Horkelia wilderae Barton Flats horkelia Y Y Hulsea vestita subsp. gabrielensis San Gabriel Mountains sunflower P Hulsea vestita subsp. pygmaea pygmy hulsea Y Y Imperata brevifolia California satintail P Ivesia argyrocoma var. argyrocoma Silver-haired ivesia Y Ivesia callida Tahquitz ivesia Y Lepechinia fragrans fragrant pitcher sage Y Leptosiphon floribundus subsp. hallii Santa Rosa Mts Y brachycalyx short-sepaled Y Lilium parryi Lemon lily Y Y Y Limnanthes alba var. parishii Parish’s meadowfoam Y Linanthus concinnus San Gabriel linanthus Y Linanthus jaegeri San Jacinto prickly phlox Y Linanthus killipii Baldwin Lake linanthus Y

Page 72

Table 8. Sensitive Plant Species - Occurrences within the Reach of Potential Effects from the Proposed Rattlesnake OHV Project Species Name Common Name Occurrence Information Mountaintop Front Country San Jacinto Occurs In/ Near District District District Analysis Area Malaxis monophyllos var. brachypoda Adder’s mouth Y Y Marina orcuttii var. orcuttii California marina Y Matelea parvifolia spearleaf Y Meesia uliginosa Broad-nerved hump moss P P Mimulus exiguus San Bernardino Mountain monkeyflower Y Mimulus purpureus purple monkeyflower Y australis subsp. jokersti Jokerst’s monardella Y Monardella macrantha subsp. hallii Hall's monardella Y Y Monardella nana subsp. leptosiphon San Felipe monardella Y Monardella saxicola rock monardella Y Navarretia peninsularis Baja navarretia Y P Opuntia basilaris var. brachyclada Short-joint beavertail P Y Oreonana vestita woolly mountain parsley P Y Orobanche valida subsp. valida Rock Creek broom-rape Y Oxytropis oreophila var. oreophila rock loving point vetch Y Packera bernardina San Bernardino butterweed Y Parnassia cirrata var. cirrata Fringed grass-of-Parnassus Y Penstemon californicus California penstemon Y Phlox dolichantha Bear Valley phlox Y Y Plagiobothrys collinus var. ursinus Cooper’s popcorn flower Y rimicola cliff cinquefoil Y Pyrrocoma uniflora subsp. gossypina Bear Valley pyrrocoma Y Saltugilia latimeri Latimer's woodland gilia Y P P Schoenus nigracans black sedge Y Scutellaria bolanderi subsp. austromontanum southern mountain skullcap P Y niveum Davidson's stonecrop Y Y Y Sidalcea hickmanii subsp. parishii Parish’s checkerbloom Y P Y Sidalcea malviflora subsp. dolosa Dwarf checkerbloom Y Sidalcea neomexicana Salt Spring checkerbloom P P P Sidotheca caryophylloides chickweed starry puncturebract Y P Y Sidotheca emarginata white-margined puncturebract Y Sisyrinchium longipes Timberland blue-eyed grass Y Streptanthus campestris southern jewelflower Y P Y

Page 73

Table 8. Sensitive Plant Species - Occurrences within the Reach of Potential Effects from the Proposed Rattlesnake OHV Project Species Name Common Name Occurrence Information Mountaintop Front Country San Jacinto Occurs In/ Near District District District Analysis Area Symphyotrichum defoliatum San Bernardino aster Y Y Y Thelypteris puberula var. sonorensis Sonoran maiden fern Y P Thysanocarpus rigidus rigid fringepod *Occurrence Information: Y = Species is known to occur. P = Occurrence of the species is possible; suitable habitat exists, and the species is known from nearby locations. H = Part of the historical range but the species has likely been extirpated. U = Occurrence of the species is unlikely based on habitat present. N = Outside known distribution/range of the species.

Page 74

Figure 7. Sensitive and Watchlist Plants in the Rattlesnake OHV project area

Page 75

This species typically occurs in rugged and remote areas of the SBNF. However, the species has lost hundreds of acres of habitat through the development and expansion of calcium carbonate mines across the North Slope. The approved and permitted (but not yet built) Cushenbury West Quarry will remove over 100 acres of habitat for this species, and is considered part of the baseline condition even though it is not fully realized.

Occurrences in/near the Project Area: This species occurs in the analysis area at South Peak of White Mountain. The carbonate soils of the White Mountain area are suitable for this species and it is likely that unrecorded occurrences exist in this area.

Effects to Abronia nana var. covillei: There are no proposed road or trail designations within the carbonate habitat of White Mountain, including South Peak. The only effects of the Proposed Action would be associated with the restoration component. Application of design features would ensure that effects are avoided to the known occurrence at South Peak. Unrecorded occurrences could be impacted if present in restoration areas. Any adverse effects of restoration to unrecorded occurrences would be short term. To the extent successful at improving the habitat conditions where there are unauthorized routed by deterring motorized uses, restoration would have long-term beneficial effects for the species and habitat.

Cumulative Effects to Abronia nana var. covillei: Since there would be no long-term adverse effects to this species, there are no cumulative effects.

Determination of Effects – Abronia nana var. covillei: It is my determination that implementation of the proposed project may impact Abronia nana var. covillei individuals and habitat. The long-term effects of the Proposed Action would be beneficial for this species due to the proposed restoration activities and removal of some trails. The project is not expected to interfere with maintaining viable well-distributed populations of Abronia nana var. covillei or lead in a trend toward federal listing.

IV-1.1.2– Crested Milkvetch (Astragalus bicristatus) Astragalus bicristatus is a member of the pea family (). Astragalus bicristatus (Fabaceae) is a perennial herb with a sparsely leafy habit. Flowering occurs from May-August.

Astragalus bicristatus is endemic to Los Angeles, Riverside, and San Bernardino counties, occurring in the San Bernardino, Santa Rosa, and eastern San Gabriel Mountains. The majority of the occurrences are in the San Bernardino Mountains. On the SBNF, occurrences within the San Bernardino Mountains are located on White Mountain Ridge, Greenlead Creek, Upper Furnace Spring, Upper Holcomb Valley, Bertha Ridge, Van Dusen Canyon, Baldwin Lake, Gold Mountain, Green Canyon, along the west ridge of Sugarloaf Mountain, and Cienega Seca Creek.

Astragalus bicristatus is found in sandy or rocky places within lower and upper montane conifer forests between 5,800-9,000 feet elevation, primarily on carbonate soils. On the SBNF, plants occur on carbonate-derived gravelly or loamy to sandy soils and on rocky or pebbly slopes. Suitable habitat on the SBNF primarily occurs on the north slope of the San Bernardino Mountains in the northeastern portion of the SBNF, and through Holcomb Valley and Bear Page 76

Valley. Habitat on the SBNF is threatened by mining activities, high recreation use, and special uses.

Occurrences in/near the Project Area: Within the project area, this species occurs at and near Big Pine Flat and Wright Mine Saddle, with just a few scattered individuals at each occurrence. The Write Mine Saddle occurrence is part of a larger occurrence group that extends outside the analysis area to the east of Wright Mine Saddle. At/near Big Pine Flat, there are two isolated small occurrences of just a few plants each, one just north of 3N14, across from the campground entrance, and the other on a rugged ridgeline about 1 mile to the northwest.

Effects to Astragalus bicristatus: There are no proposed road or trail designations within or adjacent to the documented occurrence of this species within the project area, except for mixed use designation under the Proposed Action for 3N14. Mixed use on 3N14 is not expected to have any effects to this species relative to the existing condition. The only effects of the Proposed Action would be associated with restoration of unauthorized routes near Wright Mine Saddle. Application of design features would ensure that effects are avoided to the known occurrences. Unrecorded occurrences could be impacted if present in restoration areas. Any adverse effects of restoration to unrecorded occurrences would be short term. To the extent successful at improving the habitat conditions where there are unauthorized routed by deterring motorized uses, restoration would have long-term beneficial effects for the specs and habitat.

Cumulative Effects to Astragalus bicristatus: Since there would be no long-term adverse effects to this species, there are no cumulative effects.

Determination of Effects – Astragalus bicristatus: It is my determination that implementation of the proposed project may impact Astragalus bicristatus individuals and habitat. The long-term effects of the Proposed Action would be beneficial for this species due to the proposed restoration activities and removal of some trails. The project is not expected to interfere with maintaining viable well-distributed populations of Astragalus bicristatus or lead in a trend toward federal listing.

IV-1.1.3– San Bernardino Mountains Milkvetch (Astragalus lentiginosus var. sierrae) Astragalus lentiginosus var. sierrae is one of 19 recognized varieties of freckled milk-vetch (Astragalus lentiginosus) in the pea family (Fabaceae). Astragalus lentiginosus var. sierrae is a perennial herb.

Astragalus lentiginosus var. sierrae is endemic to the San Bernardino Mountains. Occurrences range from White Mountain to Big Bear Lake, Holcomb Valley, Big Pine Flat, Baldwin Lake, Broom Flat, Tip Top Mountain, to Barton Flats, Heart Bar, and the South Fork of the Santa Ana River. Astragalus lentiginosus var. sierrae grows in gravelly, rocky, or sandy soils in mesic meadow, upper montane coniferous forest, pinyon-juniper woodland, and Mojavean desert scrub communities, at 5900-8500 feet in elevation.

Astragalus lentiginosus var. sierrae is affected by urbanization, illegal dumping, mining, development, road construction, vehicles, vegetation and fuels management, recreation, foot traffic, trampling, off-road vehicle use, other vehicle use, grazing, picnic areas, camping, and Page 77

horseback riding. Astragalus lentiginosus var. sierrae appears to respond positively to moderate ground disturbance, and also colonizes areas following more extensive disturbance.

Occurrences in the Project Area: This species occurs in the Project Area at White Mountain, South Peak, and Write Mine Saddle.

Effects to Astragalus lentiginosus var. sierrae: There are no proposed road or trail designations within or adjacent to the documented occurrences of this species within the project area. The only effects of the Proposed Action would be associated with restoration of unauthorized routes at White Mountain, South Peak, and Wright Mine Saddle. Application of design features would ensure that effects are avoided to the known occurrences. Unrecorded occurrences could be impacted if present in restoration areas. Any adverse effects of restoration to unrecorded occurrences would be short term. To the extent successful at improving the habitat conditions where there are unauthorized routed by deterring motorized uses, restoration would have long- term beneficial effects for the species and habitat.

Cumulative Effects to Astragalus lentiginosus var. sierrae: Since there would be no long-term adverse effects to this species, there are no cumulative effects.

Determination of Effects – Astragalus lentiginosus var. sierrae: It is my determination that implementation of the proposed project may impact Astragalus lentiginosus var. sierrae individuals and habitat. The long-term effects of the Proposed Action would be beneficial for this species due to the proposed restoration activities and removal of some trails. The project is not expected to interfere with maintaining viable well-distributed populations of Astragalus lentiginosus var. sierrae or lead in a trend toward federal listing.

IV-1.1.4– Parish's Rock-Cress (Boechera parishii) Boechera parishii (formerly treated as Arabis parishii) is in the mustard family (). Boechera parishii is a perennial that typically flowers from March to May.

Boechera parishii is endemic to the San Bernardino Mountains. Occurrences are located in the Little Pine Flat area, Bear Valley and Holcomb Valley, and east to Broom Flat and Onyx Ridge. Boechera parishii occurs primarily on and adjacent to pebble plains, and also occupies pinyon juniper woodland and montane coniferous forest on hillsides, ridges, and other dry, sunny areas and occurs between 6200-9900 feet elevation. It typically inhabits clay soils.

Boechera parishii is threatened by urbanization, illegal dumping, mining, development, road construction, vehicles, vegetation and fuels management, recreation, foot traffic, trampling, off- road vehicle use, other vehicle use, grazing, picnic areas, camping, and horseback riding. Pinyon juniper woodland and upper montane coniferous forest habitats are widespread throughout the plan area; however, these have been affected by altered fire regimes and increases in cheatgrass and other invasive plants.

Occurrences in the Project Area: The project area supports numerous scattered occurrences of this species, from Big Pine Flat, through Willow Canyon, to Little Pine Flat, Coxey Creek, Dawn

Page 78

O’Day Canyon and Coyote Flat. All of the occurrences within the project area are associated with pebble plain habitat and associated clay soils.

Effects to Boechera parishii: One proposed 24” trail (4N16 to 3N17) is proposed to pass through a group of small occurrences of this species. Application of design features would ensure that trail construction would avoid effects to known occurrences. Protective measures (e.g., fencing or signage) would likely be needed where this proposed trail passes adjacent to pebble plain habitat. Ongoing monitoring would also be needed to evaluate whether effects were resulting from use of the trail.

Other effects of the Proposed Action would be associated with restoration of unauthorized routes along the 3N14 (Coxey Road) corridor. Application of design features would ensure that effects are avoided to the known occurrences. Unrecorded occurrences could be impacted if present in restoration areas. Any adverse effects of restoration to unrecorded occurrences would be short term. To the extent successful at improving the habitat conditions where there are unauthorized routed by deterring motorized uses, restoration would have long-term beneficial effects for the species and habitat.

Cumulative Effects to Boechera parishii: Since there would be no long-term adverse effects to this species, there are no cumulative effects.

Determination of Effects – Boechera parishii: It is my determination that implementation of the proposed project may impact Boechera parishii individuals and habitat. The long-term effects of the Proposed Action would be neutral to beneficial for this species due to the proposed restoration activities and removal of some trails. The project is not expected to interfere with maintaining viable well-distributed populations of Astragalus lentiginosus var. sierrae or lead in a trend toward federal listing.

IV-1.1.5 – Shockley’s Rock Cress (Boechera shockleyi) Boechera shockleyi (formerly treated as Arabis shockleyi), is a perennial member of the mustard family that flowers from April-June. Boechera shockleyi occurs in California, Nevada, and Utah. In California, Boechera shockleyi occurs in Inyo, Mono, and San Bernardino counties, with most California occurrences reported from the San Bernardino Mountains. Occurrences of Boechera shockleyi on the SBNF are distributed primarily across carbonate areas in the northeastern portion of the San Bernardino Mountains.

Boechera shockleyi grows in rocky and gravelly areas of carbonate soils, usually on ridges or rocky outcrops, and in subalpine coniferous forest and pinyon-juniper woodland up to about 8000 feet in elevation. This species is most commonly found on north-facing, often steep, slopes in loose or fine-textured carbonate substrate.

Over 200 acres of habitat for this species have been lost to large scale calcium carbonate mining on the north slopes of the San Bernardino Mountains. These threats and effects from large scale mining continue on the North Slope. Some occurrences, mainly at Bertha Ridge along Van Dusen Canyon, are vulnerable to small-scale mining activities and associated vehicle travel off of system roads. Occurrences near the north shore of Big Bear Lake experience moderate to Page 79

heavy foot and mountain bike traffic. Many occurrences in the San Bernardino Mountains are remote and inaccessible.

Occurrences in/near the Project area: Occupied habitat of Boechera shockleyi within the project area is limited to White Mountain proper. It occurs near North Peak of White Mountain, outside of the project area. These both co-occur with recorded Eriogonum ovalifolium var. vineum occurrences.

Effects to Boechera shockleyi: No new or changed trail designations are proposed within or adjacent to habitat for this species under the Proposed Action. The only effects of the Proposed Action would be associated with restoration. Application of design features would result in avoidance of all adverse effects. To the extent successful, blocking and restoring about ¼ mile of unauthorized routes on White Mountain area would improve habitat conditions for this species. With an average route width of approximately10 feet in this area, this would total about 0.3 acres where ongoing adverse effects of unauthorized travel off of NFTS roads, including crushing and uprooting individual plants, compacting soil, contribution to erosion, and weed risk, would be reduced or removed from the landscape.

Cumulative Effects to Boechera shockleyi: There would be no adverse effects of the Proposed Action. Therefore, there would be no cumulative effects.

Determination of Effects – Boechera shockleyi: It is my determination that implementation of the proposed project may impact Boechera shockleyi individuals and habitat. The long-term effects of the Proposed Action would be beneficial for this species due to the proposed restoration activities and removal of some trails. The project is not expected to interfere with maintaining viable well-distributed populations of Boechera shockleyi or lead in a trend toward federal listing.

IV-1.1.6 –Palmer’s Mariposa Lily (Calochortus palmeri var. palmeri) This taxon occurs across the Transverse Ranges from Mt Pinos and the western Transverse Ranges to the San Gabriel and San Bernardino Mountains, and also the Tehachapi and Southern Sierra of Kern County, and the coast ranges of Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo Counties. The distribution of the taxon tends to be on the upper desert-facing slopes of these ranges. The majority of records are from the San Bernardino Mountains, and most of those are from the Mojave River and Deep Creek Watersheds.

The taxon is tightly associated with vernally wet habitats including seeps, springs, streamsides, and moist ephemeral and intermittent streambeds. Occurrences east of the Mojave/Deep Creek watershed are scarce.

Historically habitat for this species may have been lost to inundation following the construction of the Big Bear Dam, and subsequently to residential and commercial development in western Bear Valley. However, the species was probably always scarce in Bear Valley. Current threats to this species and its habitat include bulb poaching by collectors, trampling, flooding, erosion, invasive species, dispersed and developed recreation, road maintenance, and off-highway

Page 80

vehicles. The few records known from Bear Valley appear to be stable, and occurrences at Coldbrook and Southwest Shore are protected by fences.

This species, like most associates of vernal-wet habitats, are very sensitive to ground disturbance (especially when soils are wet) and any hydrological changes. Following the Willow (1999), Old (2003), and Slide (2007) fires, this taxon was documented to have high post-fire resilience (Fraga 2008), as is typical for the Calochortus.

Occurrences In/Near the Project Area: This species is recorded from occurrences in vernally wet habitat associated with an unnamed tributary to Cox Creek, beginning near Mud Spring and continuing downstream with occurrences near Jackrabbit Spring and 3N14. Occurrences continue down this creek outside of the project area past Little Pine Flats to the confluence with Cox Creek. A further two miles downstream, Cox Creek joins Holcomb Creek in an area that supports the highest number of occurrences, and the largest populations of this species.

Effects to Calochortus palmeri var. palmeri: No new or changed trail designations are proposed within or adjacent to habitat for this species under the Proposed Action. If this species occurs undetected within any area proposed for trail construction, effects would be avoided or minimized through application of design features for riparian conservation areas and hydrology best management practices. The only potential effects of the Proposed Action to currently recorded occurrences would be associated with restoration. Application of design features, including TES species avoidance measures and Riparian Conservation Area measures, would result in avoidance of all adverse effects. There are currently no unauthorized routes to restore in this species’’ habitat within the project area. If a new route through this habitat were to be created in the future, restoration would improve habitat conditions for this species.

Cumulative Effects to Calochortus palmeri var. palmeri: There would be no adverse effects of the Proposed Action. Therefore, there would be no cumulative effects.

Determination of Effects – Calochortus palmeri var. palmeri: It is my determination that implementation of the proposed project may impact Calochortus palmeri var. palmeri individuals and habitat. The long-term effects of the Proposed Action would be neutral or beneficial for this species due to the proposed restoration activities and removal of some trails. The project is not expected to interfere with maintaining viable well-distributed populations of Calochortus palmeri var. palmeri or lead in a trend toward federal listing.

IV-1.1.7 – Mojave Paintbrush (Castilleja plagiotoma) Castilleja plagiotoma (Orobancheae) is a hemi-parasitic perennial herb. Castilleja plagiotoma grows primarily on Artemisia tridentata, but is also known to use Eriogonum fasciculatum var. polifolium, Chrysothamnus nauseosus, Ericameria linearifolia, and Salvia dorrii as host plants. It is the larval host plant for the rare Ehrlich's checkerspot butterfly (Euphydryas editha ehrlichi), also a Forest Service listed Sensitive species.

Castilleja plagiotoma inhabits Great Basin scrub communities in alluvial conditions, Joshua tree woodlands, pinyon and juniper woodlands, and lower montane coniferous forest at 300 - 2500 meter elevations. The distribution of this species roughly follows the San Andres Fault zone Page 81

from the northwestern San Bernardino Mountains west across the northern slopes of the san Gabriel Mountains, into the Tehachapi Range, and to the eastern coast range near Carrizo Plain, and north to the Diable Range (northwest of Coalinga).

Occurrences In/Near the Project Area: The Rattlesnake Mountain OHV Trails project area encompasses the easternmost extent of the range of this species. There are numerous occurrences from Grapevine Canyon south along the Grapevine Canyon Road (4N16) corridor, Coyote Flat, Dawn O’Day Canyon, Coxey Creek, Little Pine Flat, to the easternmost occurrence of this species on the saddle just off White Mountain Road (3N17) between South Peak and the 7441 peak (west of Wright Mine saddle).

Effects to Castilleja plagiotoma: All of the trail designations under the proposed action pass through this species’ habitat. Application of design features would minimize effects to individual plants that can be flagged for avoidance, but host pants and seed banks would likely be impacted by trail construction, maintenance, and use. Many unauthorized routes subject to restoration under the proposed project also pass through this species habitat. These effects would likely include crushing, soil compaction, uprooting, and burial. A central goal of this project is to provide a fun and well-managed trail system while also restoring and deterring the proliferation of unauthorized routes. To the extent that the project is successful in managing motorized uses and improving the condition of the landscape, this species may benefit in the long-term.

Cumulative Effects to Castilleja plagiotoma: See Parts II-3.1.3.2 and II-3.1.3.3 for a discussion of current and foreseeable future activities. There are two SBNF restoration projects in the vicinity of the proposed project (Coxey Restoration Project and Deep Creek Inventoried Roadless Area Restoration Project) that will have cumulative effects to this species. Additionally, the BLM is working toward improving trail and landscape condition in the Juniper Flats area through trail designation, barrier and sign work, and restoration. All of these would likely have similar short-term adverse effects to this species, with intended long-term improvements to habitat conditions that are expected to benefit this species.

Determination of Effects – Castilleja plagiotoma: It is my determination that implementation of the proposed project may impact Castilleja plagiotoma individuals and habitat. The long-term effects of the Proposed Action would be neutral or beneficial for this species due to the proposed restoration activities and removal of some trails. The project is not expected to interfere with maintaining viable well-distributed populations of Castilleja plagiotoma or lead in a trend toward federal listing.

IV-1.1.8– San Bernardino Mountains Dudleya (Dudleya abramsii subsp. affinis) Life History and Baseline Information: This perennial succulent species is endemic to the northeastern San Bernardino Mountains, on pebble plains and also on outcrops of granite, quartzite, and carbonate rocks, from Deep Creek and Coxey Creek on the western limit of its range to Delamar Mountan, Bertha Ridge and Gold Mountain, Gold Hill, Nelson Ridge, and Lone Valley to Rattlesnake Canyon at the eastern extent of the range.

Historically through the present, much of the habitat of this species on private land has been lost to residential and commercial development. Most large occurrences of this species on public Page 82

land (mainly NFS) are protected by virtue of protections in place for its pebble plain habitat. However, adverse effects from mining, woodcutting, dumping, habitat loss, competition from non-native species, road construction and maintenance, and unauthorized off-highway vehicle use are ongoing. Where the species grows off of pebble plains, occurrences are small and widely scattered, but less risk of impacts due to rugged terrain.

Occurrences in/Near the Project Area: In the project area, this species occurs as numerous widely-scattered populations on pebble plains in the Little Pine Flat, Coxey Meadow and Dawn O’Day Canyon areas, and on Saragossa Quartzite outcrops between Little Pine Flat and White Mountain.

Effects to Dudleya abramsii subsp. affinis: No new or changed trail designations are proposed within habitat for this species under the Proposed Action. The proposed 4N16 to 3N17 trail and the 3N11 to 3N17 extension of the Redonda Ridge Trail pass within a few hundred feet of recorded occurrences. Application of design features would result in avoidance of all adverse effects from trail construction and maintenance. Monitoring and protective measures would aim to deter and reverse any new/future unauthorized trail proliferation originating from the newly designated trails. The only effects of the Proposed Action would be associated with restoration. To the extent successful, blocking and restoring unauthorized routes through habitat of this species would improve habitat conditions.

Cumulative Effects to Dudleya abramsii subsp. affinis: There would be no adverse effects of the Proposed Action. Therefore, there would be no cumulative effects.

Determination of Effects– Dudleya abramsii subsp. affinis: It is my determination that implementation of the proposed project may impact Dudleya abramsii subsp. affinis individuals and habitat. The long-term effects of the Proposed Action would be beneficial for this species due to the proposed restoration activities and removal of some trails. The project is not expected to interfere with maintaining viable well-distributed populations of Dudleya abramsii subsp. affinis or lead in a trend toward federal listing.

IV-1.1.9 –Bear Valley Phlox (Phlox dolicantha) This species is endemic to the eastern San Bernardino Mountains, ranging from Big Pine Flat to Onyx Summit, with most occurrences in Holcomb and Bear Valleys. It typically grows on clay soils in open to partially-shaded areas of montane conifer forest. This species has low tolerance for ground disturbance during wet ground conditions, due to the fragility of clay soils. The likelihood of occurrences existing undetected in the project area is high due to wide fluctuations in abundance from year to year.

Historically through the present day, much of the habitat of this species on private land has been lost to residential and commercial development. Most large occurrences of this species occur on public land (mainly NFS) and are scattered across areas with intensive recreation use and an extensive mining history, indication a tolerance of mild to moderate short-term to chronic effects. Effects from mining, woodcutting, dumping, habitat loss, competition from non-native species, road construction and maintenance, and unauthorized off-highway vehicle use are ongoing throughout its range. Page 83

Occurrences in the Project Area: In the project area, it occurs along Wright Mine Road (3N11) between Big Pine Flat and Wright Mine Saddle. This occurrence group extends north out of the project area to Wright Mine, and represents the northernmost and westernmost extent of the species’ range.

Potential Effects to Phlox dolichantha: No new or changed trail designations are proposed within habitat for this species under the Proposed Action. The only effects of the Proposed Action would be associated with restoration. To the extent successful, blocking and restoring unauthorized routes through habitat of this species would improve habitat conditions.

Cumulative Effects to Phlox dolichantha: There would be no adverse effects of the Proposed Action. Therefore, there would be no cumulative effects.

Determination of Effects – Phlox dolicantha: It is my determination that implementation of the proposed project may impact Phlox dolicantha individuals and habitat. The long-term effects of the Proposed Action would be beneficial for this species due to the proposed restoration activities and removal of some trails. The project is not expected to interfere with maintaining viable well- distributed populations of Phlox dolicantha or lead in a trend toward federal listing.

IV-1.2 – Sensitive Plants – No Action Under the No Action Alternative, no effects to Sensitive Plant Species are expected to occur relative to the baseline condition. The discussion in Part II-3.3 is applicable for all Sensitive plant species that occur in the analysis area.

IV-1.3 – Sensitive Plants – Alternative 3 Alternative 3 is the same as the Proposed Action with the addition of mixed use of vehicle types (street legal and non-street legal) on 3N14 between Big Pine Flats and 4N16A (the road to Horse Springs Campground). The effects to Sensitive plants from Alternative 3 would be the same as those described above for the Proposed Action.

IV-1.4 – Sensitive Animals – Proposed Action and Alternative 3 A number of Sensitive wildlife species are known or expected to occur in the analysis area. Table 9 contains the current Sensitive animals for the SBNF and the potential for each to occur in the analysis area. The potential direct and indirect effects to these species that are known to occur or having a high probability of occurring in the analysis area are discussed in detail.

See the existing environment described in Part II-2.0 and the effects analyses common to wildlife species/habitats in Part II-3.2 The following species and site-specific evaluations tier to those discussions.

Page 84

Table 9. Region 5 Forest Service Sensitive Species – Rattlesnake Mountain OHV Trail Analysis area Common Name Latin Name District Record1 Habitat 2 Potential for Occurrence in M FC SJ the Analysis area 1 T San Emigdio blue butterfly Plebulina emigdionis P U N r, dry riverbeds; Host=Atriplex P is host plant San Gabriel Mountains blue butterfly Plebejus saepiolus aureoles N P N m; Host=Trifolium U. Host plant record @ Big (golden blue butterfly) wormskioldii is host plant Pine Flat and Coxey Meadow but outside known distribution. Arrowhead Blue Butterfly Glaucopshyce piasus (sagittigera) Y Y N c, m; host= Lupinus excubitus Y @ Coxey Meadow Ehrlich’s checkerspot butterfly Euphydryas editha ehrlichi Y N N d, c, pebble plain; Y @ Coxey Meadow, Ord host=Castilleja plagiotoma Mountains Dammer’s Blue Butterfly (Euphilotes enoptes near dammersi Y N N Baldwin=pebble plain; Host= N- outside known distribution ssp.) (Arrastre Creek near Dammersi Eriogonum kennedyi var. ssp + Baldwin Lake near Dammersi austromontanum and E. ssp wrightii. Arrastre=wo (py/ju), r; host= Eriogonum davidsonii vernal blue butterfly (Coxey Euphilotes baueri (battoides) vernalis Y N N Pebble plain; host= Eriogonum Y@ within 1 mile of Coxey Meadow) kennedyi var. kennedyi Meadow; Little Pine Flat Pratt’s blue butterfly Euphilotes enoptes cryptorufes N N Y Eriogonum davidsonii is host N–outside known distribution plant San Gabriel Mountains elfin Incisalia mossii hidakupa N P N rk, on Sedum spathulifolium N-outside known distribution Santa Ana speckled dace Rhinichthys osculus ssp. N Y Y aq N – outside known distribution arroyo chub Gila orcutti Y P Y aq N – outside known distribution large-blotched ensatina Ensatina klauberi Y Y Y r, mc P – records from Marble Canyon and Arctic Cyn yellow-blotched ensatina Ensatina eschscholtzii croceater Y Y? Y? r, mc P – records from Marble Canyon and Arctic Cyn San Gabriel Mountain slender Batrachoseps gabrieli N Y N talus, mc, r N – outside known distribution salamander western pond turtle Emys marmorata H/P P Y aq, r N – outside known distribution California legless lizard Anniella pulchra P Y Y c, d, alluvial fan P Orange-throated whiptail Aspidoscelis hyperythrus N Y Y w, rk, c, wo (oaks) N-outside known distribution southern rubber boa Charina umbratica Y Y Y mc, c, r P three-lined boa Lichanura orcutti Y Y Y c, g, rk, r P San Bernardino ringneck snake Diadophis punctatus modestus Y Y Y c, g, rk, r P San Diego ringneck snake Diadophis punctatus similis N N Y c, g, rk N San Bernardino mountain kingsnake Lampropeltis zonata parvirubra Y Y Y mc, c, pj, r Y (little pine and 3N14 N Page 85

Table 9. Region 5 Forest Service Sensitive Species – Rattlesnake Mountain OHV Trail Analysis area Common Name Latin Name District Record1 Habitat 2 Potential for Occurrence in M FC SJ the Analysis area 1 T West of rattlesnake mountain San Diego mountain kingsnake Lampropeltis zonata pulchra N N Y mc, r N – outside known distribution Two-striped garter snake Thamnophis hammondii Y Y Y r, aq Y (Coxey Pond, Coxey Creek) red diamond rattlesnake Crotalus ruber ruber Y Y Y c, wo, d, rk N– outside known distribution brown pelican Pelicanus occidentalis Y N N aq N – no suitable habitat northern goshawk Accipiter gentilis Y Y Y mc U – no suitable habitat bald eagle Haliaeetus leucocephalus Y P Y aq,r,m Y (occasional at Coxey Pond) Western yellow-billed cuckoo Coccyzus americanus occidentalis P P P r N – no suitable habitat California spotted owl Strix occidentalis occidentalis Y Y Y mc N – no suitable habitat Willow flycatcher (migrant) Empidonax traillii Y Y Y r Y @ Coxey Pond; P @ Coxey Creek San Diego cactus wren Campylorhynchus bruneicapillus N P P d, c N – outside known distribution sandiegense gray vireo Vireo vicinior Y Y Y wo (pj),ch Y (3N16x3N17 area) Townsend’s big-eared bat Corynorhinus townsendii Y P Y mc, r, aq, wo, c, mines Y (4N16 and forest boundary) fringed myotis Myotis thysanodes Y Y Y R, wo, m, g, mc Y (4N16 and forest boundary) pallid bat Antrozous pallidus Y P Y c, wo, mc, d, rk Y (4N16 and forest boundary) San Bernardino flying squirrel Glaucomys sabrinus californicus Y Y H mc, r N- no suitable habitat white-eared pocket mouse Perognathus alticolus alticolus H P N mc, wo; bracken fern U – no suitable habitat understory San Gabriel Mountains bighorn sheep Ovis canadensis nelsoni N Y N wo, rk, d N – outside known distribution 1 Occurrence Information: 2HABITAT TYPES/HABITAT mc = mixed conifer forests; Jeffrey Y = Species is known to occur. COMPONENTS pine, ponderosa pine, bigcone Douglas P = Occurrence of the species is possible; suitable habitat exists, and/or the a = aerial; usually seen in flight, often fir, coulter pine, sugar pine, white fir species is known from nearby locations. over several habitat types overstory B = Species is known or likely to nest in the area. r = riparian (streamside thickets and d = desert; Joshua tree woodlands, M = The species uses the area during migration as a stopover. woodlands) creosote bush scrub, blackbrush scrub H = Part of the historical range but the species has been extirpated. g = grasslands, fields, and agricultural aq = aquatic; lakes, reservoirs, ponds, U = Occurrence of the species is unlikely based on habitat present. areas vernal pools/puddles N = Outside known distribution/range of the species. m = marshes, meadows; both u = urbanized areas freshwater areas and moist meadows w = washes and alluvial fans c = chaparral and coastal sage scrub rk = cliffs and rocky outcrops wo = woodlands; pinyon-juniper, oaks s = snags and cavities

Page 86

IV-1.4.1 – San Emigdio Blue Butterfly (Plebulina emigdionis) This species was added as a Forest Service Sensitive species in 2013.

Life History and Baseline Information: The San Emigdio blue butterfly is closely associated with the widespread saltbush Atriplex canescens in alkali sink areas. However, the San Emigdio blue butterfly's distribution is much more localized than that of the host plant, suggesting that other factors may determine habitat suitability. The habitat is described as generally being dry river courses, intermittent streamsides, and adjacent flats. There may be an obligatory mutualistic relationship between this species and one or more ant species.

San Emigdio blue butterfly has three flight periods during the year. The first adults begin flying in late April, and the third end their flight period in early September. Eggs are laid singly on the leaves of the host plant Atriplex canescens. The San Emigdio blue butterfly larvae hatch 8 to 10 days after oviposition. Mature larvae undergo diapause. Pupation occurs on the host plant or in leaves at the base of the host plant.

San Emigdio blue butterfly larvae feed on the leaves of the host plant Atriplex canescens. They are tended by ants. Food habits of the adults have not been described, though they are assumed to feed on nectar.

This species is known from relatively few locations. The best-known population of San Emigdio blue butterfly is along the Mojave River near Victorville has declined as a result of urbanization. It has been collected along the Mojave River near Victorville. (Source: USFS 2013 updated Species Accounts)

Occurrence in Analysis Area– San Emigdio Blue Butterfly: Scattered occurrences of the host plant are likely in the analysis area. The San Emigdio blue butterfly may occur in the analysis area where host plants are present.

Potential Effects – San Emigdio Blue Butterfly: There would be permanent habitat losses for this butterfly wherever the host plant is removed. The acreage of habitat loss is unknown since the host plant occurrences have not been mapped. The Design Features include a measure that calls for surveys for host plants prior to any ground-disturbance (constructing/rerouting new trails or restoring existing user-created trails). If host plants are present, the trail would be re-routed to avoid the host plants with an appropriate buffer. For restoration work, a monitor would work with the crew to ensure minimal disturbance to the host plants.

Trail use close to host plants could result in death or injury of individuals of this species (in any of the life phases). Because of the Design Features, this risk is considered relatively low.

Cumulative Effects for San Emigdio Blue Butterfly: There are no other projects proposed in the foreseeable future that have the potential to affect this species.

Determination of Effects – San Emigdio Blue Butterfly: It is my determination that the Proposed Action and Alternative 3 may impact individuals or habitat, but are not likely to result in a trend toward Federal listing of San Emigdio blue butterfly. The project is not expected to interfere Page 87

with maintaining viable well-distributed populations of San Emigdio blue butterfly.

IV-1.4.2 – Arrowhead Blue Butterfly (Glaucopshyce piasus [sagittigera]) The Arrowhead blue butterfly is a Forest Service Sensitive species. The Arrowhead blue butterfly Glaucopsyche piasus is a widespread species found from British Columbia and Southern Alberta south to southern California, northern Arizona and western Nebraska. This species is localized and uncommon throughout its range. There are several subspecies of Arrowhead blue in southern California. The subspecies G. p. sagittigera was once common throughout the Los Angeles Valley in the early 19th century. Currently, it is presumed extirpated from the Los Angeles Basin and there are no longer any known occupied sites there.

A unique subspecies, Glaucopsyche piasus near sagittigera, is known from several locations in the San Gabriel and San Bernardino mountains. It has not been formerly described. Phenotypically, it is closest to G. p. sagittigera.

Life History and Baseline Information: This “near sagittigera” subspecies is currently known from only three locations: Lone Pine Canyon, North Fork Lytle Creek, and a campground along Highway 2. It may also occur at Upper Fish Fork, but the small sample size has precluded definite identification (Chatman 2009). As recently as the mid-1980s, another population was known from the Mojave River Forks area but it has potentially been extirpated. A “good population” occurs at Coxey Meadow.

The Mojave River Forks population was last observed by Dr. Gordon Pratt in the mid-1980s and may have since been extirpated due to the creation of the Mojave Forks dam and other development and disturbances. Additionally, the butterfly may be present along Lytle Creek in areas where its specific habitat requirements are met.

Four of the occupied sites include SBNF lands: the Lone Pine Canyon, North Fork Lytle Creek, and Coxey Meadow sites are entirely on the SBNF; the Mojave River Forks site is on the SBNF, Bureau of Land Management, and private lands. The Fish Fork and Hwy 2 campground sites are on the Angeles National Forest (ANF).

The Lone Pine Canyon population of “near sagittigera” is found exclusively on perennial lupines. Lupinus excubitus, the grape soda lupine, is the most common host at that site. Additionally, it relies on a mutualistic relationship with a specific ant species, Formica pilicornis. The butterfly larvae secrete honeydew, which provides food for the ants. In return, the ants protect the larvae from predators. The range of this population is likely limited by the required presence of both species (the ant and the host plant) and is likely a reason for this butterfly’s rarity.

The flight season of this subspecies varies greatly because of the yearly fluctuations in the local climate. This population generally begins to fly in early April depending on the development of the host lupine. Eggs are laid on flower heads and hatch out in approximately 10 days. The larvae feed primarily on the flower heads, but will feed on other parts of the plant once the flower heads are gone. The feeding process leaves easily identified visual blemishes on the plant. As the larvae become larger they develop a conspicuous magenta colored dorsal stripe Page 88

Larvae which have been parasitized by wasps may grow atypically large, feed on atypical parts of the plant, and resist diapause to allow the wasp to fully develop inside.

The Lone Pine Canyon population of “near sagittigera” is found exclusively on perennial lupines. Lupinus excubitus, the grape soda lupine, is the most common host at that site. Additionally, it relies on a mutualistic relationship with a specific ant species, Formica pilicornis. The butterfly larvae secrete honeydew, which provides food for the ants. In return, the ants protect the larvae from predators. The range of this population is likely limited by the required presence of both species (the ant and the host plant) and is likely a reason for this butterfly’s rarity.

The flight season of this subspecies varies greatly because of the yearly fluctuations in the local climate. This population generally begins to fly in early April depending on the development of the host lupine. Eggs are laid on flower heads and hatch out in approximately 10 days. The larvae feed primarily on the flower heads, but will feed on other parts of the plant once the flower heads are gone. The feeding process leaves easily identified visual blemishes on the plant. As the larvae become larger they develop a conspicuous magenta colored dorsal stripe.

Larvae which have been parasitized by wasps may grow atypically large, feed on atypical parts of the plant, and resist diapause to allow the wasp to fully develop inside.

A general threat to butterflies, especially rare butterflies, is that of collectors. Single events such as fire could have significant effects. Disturbances such as a fire suppression activities (dozerlines, handlines, staging, etc.), road maintenance activities, and illegal off-highway vehicles could result in losses of eggs, larvae, and adults. The host plant Lupinus excubitus is a fire adapted (or early seral-stage) species, so while fire and road maintenance actions might negatively affect the butterfly in all life stages, occasional disturbance may actually benefit the host plants.

The effects of climate change on butterfly populations are difficult to assess, but it is likely that changes in temperature extremes and precipitation could affect host plant availability and thus affect butterfly population viability. More information on the status and ecological requirements of these populations are required in order fully assess potential threats.

The Mojave Forks population of “near sagittigera” may already be extirpated. This “near sagittigera” subspecies is likely very rare and extremely localized due to its obligate association with a specific host plant and mutualistic ant species. Care should be taken if both associated species are found in an area and a thorough search for this butterfly should be undertaken. It is likely that several factors have contributed to population declines, including sensitivity to human encroachment, degradation/disturbance of host plants (this very attractive sweet-smelling flower is often gathered by the public for bouquets), decreased ant populations due to the presence of non-native ants, and habitat losses due to development and OHV use. (Source: USFS 2013 updated Species Accounts)

Page 89

Occurrence in the Analysis Area: This species is known from the Coxey Meadow area and is likely to occur throughout the analysis area where host plants are present.

Potential Project-Related Effects to Arrowhead Blue Butterfly: See the discussion above for San Emigdio blue butterfly. The potential effects for this species are the same.

Cumulative Effects for Arrowhead Blue Butterfly: See the discussion above for San Emigdio blue butterfly. The potential effects for this species are the same.

Determination of Effects – Arrowhead Blue Butterfly: It is my determination that the Proposed Action and Alternative 3 may impact individuals or habitat, but are not likely to result in a trend toward Federal listing of Arrowhead blue butterfly. The project is not expected to interfere with maintaining viable well-distributed populations of Arrowhead blue butterfly.

IV-1.4.3 – Ehrlich’s Checkerspot Butterfly (Euphydryas editha ehrlichi) Ehrlich’s checkerspot butterfly is a Forest Service Sensitive species. The Ehrlich’s Checkerspot is a recently-described, highly localized subspecies, found on the SBNF and adjacent Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands.

Life History and Baseline Information: This butterfly has only been collected from its type location around Juniper Flat in the Ord Mountains near Victorville. Ehrlich’s checkerspots used to occur in the Rock Creek area near Bob’s Gap in the San Gabriel Mountains north of Angeles National Forest System lands. This subspecies appears to be narrowly distributed within its documented range.

The Ord Mountains are on BLM lands adjacent to the SBNF. A male Ehrlich's checkerspot was observed at Coxey Meadow in the spring of 1998, but was not collected. Mojave paintbrush (Castilleja plagiotoma), the host plant for Ehrlich's checkerspot, is known on the SBNF from several areas about ten miles southeast of the Ord Mountains, in pebble plain habitat near Coxey Pond/Meadow at 5,640 feet, Coyote Flats at 5,800–6,120 feet and Little Pine Flats at 5,580– 5,920 feet (SBNF botanical records). It is possible that Ehrlich's checkerspot occurs in these areas as well.

Ehrlich's checkerspot occurs in high desert habitat or in a mixture of Joshua tree woodland and sage scrub plant communities where the dominant plants are Artemisia, Eriogonum, Lycium, Salazdria, Salvia, Yucca, and several cactus species. Castilleja plagiotoma, Mojave Indian paintbrush, is the larval host plant for this subspecies. Egg masses and larvae have been found on plants in sheltered northeast slopes.

On the SBNF, Castilleja plagiotoma is found on the Coxey Meadow, Little Pine Flat, Dawn-O- Day, and Coyote Flats pebble plain complexes in the San Bernardino Mountains on the San Bernardino National Forest (SBNF botanical records), and Erhlich’s checkerspot has been found in that area. Castilleja plagiotoma extends north to the southern Sierra Nevada, southern San Joaquin Valley, and interior Coast Ranges.

Page 90

Very little life history information is provided in the original description of the Ehrlich's checkerspot. This species has one brood per year. Judging from the dates of collection, the flight period includes, but is not necessarily limited to, mid-April to early May. Eggs are laid in masses, most often more than 100 eggs in a mass, on the host plant Castilleja plagiotoma from mid-April to early May.

Larvae diapause in shelters, probably located at the base of their food plant. Post diapause larvae are capable of re-entering diapause for multiple years. If the food plant desiccates or gets eaten, the larvae will re-enter diapause. Diapause can occur in the second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, or even eighth larval instars. Larvae probably break diapause in early March and pupate in early April, somewhat later at higher elevations. Pre-diapause larvae probably enter diapause in late May to mid-June.

The remainder of available checkerspot butterfly larval information from southern California is specific to E. e. quino, but it is probably applicable to Ehrlich's checkerspot as well. Eggs hatch 7–10 days after oviposition. Larvae feed gregariously during their first, second and (possibly) third instars. After diapause, larvae feed singly. Pupation occurs on the ground, beneath rocks or low-growing plants. The pupal stage lasts approximately 10 days, and then adults emerge, unless development is arrested by diapause.

The flight period for Ehrlich's checkerspot on the SBNF might be slightly later than listed above for the Ord Mountains. In summer 2000, Castilleja plagiotoma was in full bloom May 27th at the Little Pine Flats pebble plain, about 1,000 feet higher than Ord Mountain; it generally blooms from mid-May to mid-June.

Castilleja plagiotoma is utilized by several life stages: eggs are laid on the undersides of leaves or on flowers, and leaves and flowers are eaten by pre-diapause and post-diapause larvae. Adults feed on nectar, though there is no specific information on nectar sources for Ehrlich's checkerspot adults.

Adults have one flight period during their lifecycle and live about one week. During that time, movements are generally short 80–600 feet; maybe up to six miles if no host plant flowers are nearby. Males seek females all day by perching on ridge tops or by patrolling through habitat and are considered strong hill-toppers by Pratt. Larvae, pupae, and adults are somewhat poisonous to vertebrates.

Ehrlich's checkerspot is apparently restricted to suitable habitat in the Ord Mountains and possibly the San Bernardino Mountains. No information is currently available on the status of this population. Pratt (pers. comm. 2001) suggested that this species may be the rarest butterfly in the San Bernardino Mountains, as in total there are fewer than 100 specimens known, and focused surveys may miss the species due to its rarity. Ehrlich's checkerspot may never be abundant, since the abundance of host plants determines the population size. When the host plant population is lowered during a drought year, the adults will be scarce the following year.

A general threat to butterflies, especially rare butterflies, is that of collectors. Disturbances and destruction of habitat as a result of fire suppression activities (dozerlines, handlines, staging, Page 91

etc.), road maintenance activities, and illegal off-highway vehicles are the major threat to this species and its habitat. The open flat nature of the pebble plains make them especially inviting to illegal vehicle travel with potential to damage or kill host plants, larvae and butterflies.

The effects of climate change on butterfly populations are difficult to assess but it is likely that changes in temperature extremes and precipitation could affect host availability and thus affect butterfly population viability. More information on the status and ecological requirements of these populations are required in order fully assess potential threats.

The Ehrlich’s checkerspot occurs on pebble plains, a relatively rare and isolated habitat type. The pebble plains complexes (Coxey Meadow, Little Pine Flat, Dawn-O-Day, and Coyote Flats) that support known occurrences on NFS lands all burned partially or completely during both the Devil Fire (first two weeks of July 1994) and the Willow Fire (last week of August and first week of September 1999). It is unknown how the fires affected Ehrlich's checkerspot. Repeated (or even single) fires may result in type conversion of native vegetation to non-native grasslands of cheat grass (Bromus tectorum). If these isolated pebble plain complexes become smaller and less robust, Ehrlich's checkerspot may be in further peril.

Pratt (2011) expressed a high level of concern for this butterfly due to its shrinking distribution and very low numbers (even lower than the federally-endangered quino checkerspot).

Occurrence in the Analysis Area: The Ehrlich’s checkerspot occurs on pebble plains in/near the analysis area, a relatively rare and isolated habitat type. The pebble plains complexes (Coxey Meadow, Little Pine Flat, Dawn-O-Day, and Coyote Flats) and any other sites that have suitable host plants support this species.

Potential Project-Related Effects to Ehrlich’s Checkerspot Butterfly: See the discussion above for San Emigdio blue butterfly. The potential effects for this species are the same.

Cumulative Effects for Ehrlich’s Checkerspot Butterfly: See the discussion above for San Emigdio blue butterfly. The potential effects for this species are the same.

Determination of Effects – Ehrlich’s Checkerspot Butterfly: It is my determination that the Proposed Action and Alternative 3 may impact individuals or habitat, but are not likely to result in a trend toward Federal listing of Ehrlich’s checkerspot butterfly. The project is not expected to interfere with maintaining viable well-distributed populations of Ehrlich’s checkerspot butterfly.

IV-1.4.4 – Vernal Blue Butterfly (Euphilotes baueri (battoides) vernalis) Vernal blue butterfly is a Forest Service Sensitive species. This taxon was originally described as Euphilotes battoides by Pratt and Emmel (1998). They described 11 subspecies of Euphilotes battoides, and vernal blue butterfly was the only subspecies to occur on any of the four southern California national forests. Later, however, Pratt (pers. comm. with J. Beyers 2003) moved vernal blue butterfly to E. baueri after realizing that the population in the Coso Mountains was the same taxon, and that population did not fit in E. battoides (there is a different E. battoides subspecies in the Coso Mountains). Opler and Wright (1999) include vernal blue butterfly in E. baueri. Page 92

Host plants for Euphilotes baueri include Eriogonum kennedyi, E. ovalifolium, and E. strictum, while host plants for Euphilotes battoides are other species of Eriogonum, including E. umbellatum and E. parviflorum (NatureServe 2003).

Pratt and Emmel (1998) suggested that vernal blue butterfly may be a relict population of E. battoides that once had a wider range. They noted, based on information provided by Pratt (1988, cited in Pratt and Emmel 1998), that this taxon's allozyme characters show it to be atypical compared to other E. battoides subspecies. Placing the taxon in E. baueri recognizes the significance of this difference. Because of the confusion over the of this butterfly, some references seem to place it in both Euphilotes baueri and E. battoides (e.g., NatureServe 2003).

Life History and Baseline Information: The subspecies, vernal blue butterfly, Euphilotes baueri (battoides) vernalis, inhabits only a couple of square miles of habitat within its type locality near Coxey Meadow in the northwestern San Bernardino Mountains within the SBNF. The occurrence is at an elevation of approximately 5,250 feet.

The host plant, Eriogonum kennedyi var. kennedyi, generally occurs in dry gravel or among rocks at elevations of 4,900 to 8,500 feet (from Mt. Pinos to the San Bernardino Mountains. However, vernal blue butterfly has not been found on Mt. Pinos or in the San Gabriel Mountains.

A similar butterfly population has recently been found in the Coso Mountains on the China Lake Military Base east of Inyokern. There are over 100 miles separating these populations and there appears to be no dispersal possible between the two sites. Subsequent DNA studies indicate that they are quite different and not genetically related even though they look virtually identical. These two populations likely represent two different subspecies which have yet to be recognized. (Pratt, pers. comm. 6/9/2011).

Vernal blue butterfly is associated with spring-blooming populations of wild buckwheat (Pratt and Emmel 1998) that occurs on pebble plain habitat in the Coxey Meadow area. The host plant is Eriogonum kennedyi var. kennedyi, an early-spring (mid-April to early May) blooming wild buckwheat found in pebble plain habitats. The vernal blue butterfly occurrences are at elevations of approximately 5,500 to 6,000 feet.

Little is known about this taxon. Collection dates for adult vernal blue butterfly suggest that it is single brooded. Collection dates also indicate that the flight period includes, but is not necessarily limited to, mid-April–May. Males actively seek females with which to mate. Presumably, like other species in the genus, females oviposit a single egg on a buckwheat bud or inside a flower.

Larvae eat flowers and young fruits and are tended by ants. No specific description of the vernal blue butterfly larval/ant association has been located. In general, larvae secret substances to pacify ants that might otherwise attack the larvae. In return, the ants protect the larvae from predators.

Page 93

Vernal blue butterflies do not have nests. Diapause occurs during the pupal stage. Vernal blue butterflies fly at the time that most host plants are starting to bloom. Adults may live up to about two weeks.

Little information is available on this subspecies. Vernal blue butterfly is one of the earliest flying of the described E. battoides subspecies. Larvae feed only on flowers of the host plant. Pupation occurs in the soil at the base of the host plant. Diapause, as noted above, occurs during the pupal stage.

Both larvae and adults of vernal blue butterfly feed on the flowers of Eriogonum kennedyi var. kennedyi. Larvae feed solely on the flowers and young fruits; adults generally take the nectar of the host plant, but will occasionally feed on other nectar-producing flowers.

Euphilotes battoides as a whole is widely distributed in western North America, though one subspecies, E. b. allyni, is federally listed as endangered. Euphilotes baueri is found only in California, Arizona, and Nevada. Vernal blue butterfly has been reported from only two locations. Currently, not enough information is available on this taxon to determine the status of the population or any trends it may be experiencing. There is no specific information available for populations on National Forest System lands.

Due to a very limited range, the main management concern for the vernal blue is habitat loss. Pratt has surveyed suitable habitat in the vicinity with no success at locating new populations. Thus the vernal blue butterfly may be threatened by isolation and be susceptible to catastrophic events.

The Coxey Meadow pebble plain complex burned partially or completely during both the Devil Fire (July 1994) and the Willow Fire (late August and early September 1999). It is unknown how the fires affected vernal blue butterfly survival. Vegetation monitoring conducted in the pebble plain from 1999 through August 2001 showed that Eriogonum kennedyi var. kennedyi was negatively affected by fire. Burned plots had fewer individuals of E. kennedyi var. kennedyi than did unburned plots. Burned plots also had lower species richness, fewer native grasses, and more woody vegetation such as sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata ssp. tridentata) and rabbitbrush (Chrysothamnus nauseosus) (USDA Forest Service 2001). These results suggested that the burned pebble plain was becoming vegetatively more like surrounding non-pebble plain areas.

Repeated fires in this general area may result in type conversion of native vegetation to nonnative grasslands of cheat grass (Bromus tectorum). If these isolated pebble plain complexes become smaller and less robust, the vernal blue butterfly may be in peril.

Besides wildfire and cheat grass invasion, the current threat to pebble plain habitat in the Coxey Meadow area is from illegal off-road driving. The open flat nature of the pebble plains make them especially inviting to illegal vehicle exploration. After the Willow fire (1999), the Coxey Meadow pebble plains complex was monitored frequently to ensure that off-route driving was not occurring. This monitoring documented unauthorized fuelwood cutting in the pebble plain. Vernal blue butterfly are threatened by degradation of habitat and food plants; off-road vehicle incursions in the habitat; and, fugitive dust from adjacent dirt roads. Page 94

A revision of the San Bernardino National Forest Pebble Plain Habitat Management Guide (USDA Forest Service 2002) summarizes management goals and recommended measures for protecting pebble plain habitat. Specific conservation measures for the Coxey Meadow pebble plain complex were included and should help protect the population of vernal blue butterflies. (Source: USFS 2013 updated Species Accounts)

Occurrence in the Analysis Area: This subspecies is only known from an area that is a couple of square miles within the analysis area.

Potential Project-Related Effects to Vernal Blue Butterfly: See the discussion above for San Emigdio blue butterfly. The potential effects for this species are the same.

Cumulative Effects for Vernal Blue Butterfly: See the discussion above for San Emigdio blue butterfly. The potential effects for this species are the same.

Determination of Effects – Vernal Blue Butterfly: It is my determination that the Proposed Action and Alternative 3 may impact individuals or habitat, but are not likely to result in a trend toward Federal listing of vernal blue butterfly. The project is not expected to interfere with maintaining viable well-distributed populations of vernal blue butterfly.

IV-1.4.5 – Large-Blotched Ensatina (Ensatina klauberi) and Yellow-Blotched Ensatina (Ensatina eschscholtzii croceater) Large and yellow-blotched ensatina are Forest Service Sensitive species and CDFW Species of Special Concern. The yellow-blotched ensatina is also a BLM Sensitive species. Large-blotched ensatina salamanders found in the San Bernardino Mountains have color patterns similar to yellow-blotched salamander but appear to be genetically closer to E. klauberi. In the San Bernardino Mountains, the yellow-blotched ensatina intergrades with the large-blotched ensatina (Stebbins 2003).

There is a “hybrid swarm” for Ensatina in the San Bernardino Mountains where Monterey, yellow-blotched, and large-blotched ensatina hybridize. Recent treatments (Stebbins and MacGinnis 2012) list E. klauberi as a species broken out from E. eschscholtzii (as previously treated). The genetics for these three species is yet to be resolved (Stebbins and MacGinnis 2012). For the purposes of this analysis, both yellow-blotched and large-blotched are considered to be present in the San Bernardino Mountains. Further research in the future may result in a better understanding of the taxonomy.

Life History and Baseline Information: Both species of ensatinas occur in woodlands dominated by oak (Quercus sp.) and in open forests dominated by yellow pines (Pinus sp.), white fir (Abies concolor), and incense cedar (Calocedrus decurrens). They extend onto slopes supporting California scrub habitats. Colonies of ensatina salamanders seem best developed in marginal belts between dense and sparse vegetation (e.g., edge habitat).

Downed logs, leaf litter, and woody debris appear to be important habitat elements. Populations of ensatina in drier regions of southern California primarily occur on north-facing slopes of deep Page 95

canyons and in other microhabitats that provide cool, moist conditions. Ensatina are frequently found near streams where soils are relatively moist, or in shaded, moist habitats where there is good canopy cover.

This species is nocturnal and difficult to see near the surface, so it could be more widespread than current data suggest.

Juveniles and adults are most active when the ground is wet and temperatures are moderate. Ensatina remain underground throughout dry weather. Except in areas where severe winter weather occurs, ensatinas emerge with the first rains of autumn and are active on the ground through spring. Ensatina are commonly found in areas with considerable leaf litter. In one study, the average distance moved was 66 feet for mature males and 33 feet for mature females. The home ranges of females were 20-75 feet in greatest dimension; the home ranges of males were 33-135 feet.

Habitat for this species has been dwindling in the San Bernardino Mountains due to development and degradation of riparian habitat. Past vegetation management projects on federal and non- federal lands have likely resulted in disturbance to this species, in short-term and, potentially, in long-term alterations of habitat where stands have been altered enough to change micro-climate conditions.

Other effects to ensatina and its habitats include being killed on the highways, roads, and trails, and being collected by Forest visitors. Another threat to these species includes losses in habitat quality due to firewood collecting (cutting of snags and logs) that may remove downed log cover. Other threats to these species, past and current, include fragmentation of habitat for residential development and vegetation management treatments that remove the continuity of log habitat across the landscape.

Occurrence in the Analysis Area - Large/Yellow-Blotched Ensatina: Large/yellow blotched ensatinas have been found in Crystal Creek in 2000 and 2005 (SBNF records), Arctic Canyon and Marble Canyon in 2005 (CNDDB), and likely occur in all or most of the north-facing canyons/drainages on the North Slope. They may also occur in some of the springs and drainages that occur in the analysis area. The Arctic and Marble Canyon records are from 5800 feet and the Crystal Creek occurrences were from ~6400 feet; those elevations overlap with elevations that occur in the analysis area.

Potential Project-Related Effects to Large/Yellow-Blotched Ensatina: Mortality or injuries of ensatinas is not expected in the proposed project because damp areas, springs, and riparian areas were avoided during final trail alignment, staging area designation, and road designation. Because of the small home ranges and discontinuity between suitable habitats on the North Slope, there is likely already a lack of intermixing of populations between the North Slope canyons. The RCAs for the project would limit habitat degradation/losses for this species.

Cumulative Effects for Large/Yellow-Blotched Ensatina: See Part II-3.2.13 for a discussion of current and foreseeable future activities. Most of the Forest Service and non-Forest Service fuels reduction activities that are in progress or in the foreseeable future have potential to affect Page 96

ensatinas. The fuels reduction projects have measures to limit effects to riparian habitats and other areas suitable for ensatina. While the fuels reduction projects have the potential to affect individual ensatinas, the habitat effects are temporary.

While fuels reduction projects on NFS lands attempt to retain important amphibian habitat components and include measures to avoid direct effects, the same is probably not true for activities on non-federal land. Similar vegetation/fuels projects on private lands do not generally carry the same levels of habitat protection as those on the SBNF and have likely resulted in disturbance to these species, in short-term and, potentially, in long-term alterations of habitat. The level of effects and habitat alteration/losses from hazard tree and downed log removal is unknown and likely varies by land ownership.

These reasonably foreseeable cumulative effects, together with the potential effects of the Proposed Action, affect a small fraction of the range and habitat of large/yellow-blotched ensatina.

Determination of Effects – Large/Yellow-Blotched Ensatina: It is my determination that implementation of either of the action alternatives may impact individuals or habitat, but is not likely to result in a trend toward Federal listing for large/yellow-blotched ensatina. The project is not expected to interfere with maintaining viable well-distributed populations of large/yellow- blotched ensatina.

IV-1.4.6– Sensitive Reptiles The potential effects for Sensitive reptiles are similar and, thus, are discussed together after the life history, baseline, and occurrence information for the Sensitive reptiles.

IV-1.4.6.1 Southern California Legless Lizard (Anniella stebbinsi) The California legless lizard Anniella pulchra is a Forest Service Sensitive species and a CDFW Species of Special Concern. In September 2013, a genetic study of California legless lizard was published (Papenfuss and Parham 2013) that broke out A. pulchra into five species of Anneilla, with four of the species being new. Based on this new description, the southern California species previously considered Anniella pulchra is now considered Anniella stebbinsi (Southern California legless lizard). The Forest Service Sensitive species list has not been revised to include this new information. For the purposes of this analysis, A. stebbinsi is being treated as a Sensitive species until the Regional Forester determines whether a revision of the list is warranted. Error! Reference source not found. (Papenfuss and Parham 2013) below displays the recent changes.

Life History and Baseline Information: A.stebbinsi in the Coast, Transverse, and Peninsular Ranges. There are also occurrences in the Piute and Tehachapi Mountains at elevations of 1310 – 3000 feet in oak woodlands, mixed conifer forest, and Joshua tree/juniper woodlands (Papenfuss and Parham 2013). It is found on the coastal side of the San Bernardino Mountains and into Cajon Pass. A population of California legless lizards is known to inhabit the alluvial fan at the mouth of Cable Canyon, approximately a mile outside the San Bernardino National Forest boundary.

Page 97

Figure 8. Anniella pulchra distribution The map displays the traditional (inset) distribution of Anniella pulchra and a detail (main) showing the hypothesized distribution of the newly described species. White stars indicate type localities, black dots show referred specimens used in this study. Color-shaded areas are speculated based on the distribution of museum specimens and genetic clades. (Papenfuss and Parham 2013)

When queried for Anniella, the Berkeley Museum of Vertebrate Zoology database map tool displays the following records in/near the SBNF: east of Silverwood Lake (from a vague record “5-10 miles N of San Bernardino), Cable Canyon (Devore), Live Oak Canyon (Yucaipa), at base of San Jacinto Mountains (Cabazon area south of I-10 and within the SBNF boundary) (http://berkeleymapper.berkeley.edu/?ViewResults=tab&tabfile=http://arctos.database.museum/b nhmMaps/tabfiles/arctos_113.txt&configfile=http://arctos.database.museum/bnhmMaps/tabfiles/ arctos_113.xml).

Anniella stebbinsi is found in a broader range of habitats that any of the other species in the genus. Often locally abundant, specimens are found in coastal sand dunes and a variety of interior habitats, including sandy washes and alluvial fans (Stebbins and McGinnis 2012). Anniella stebbinsi is common at the western margin of the Colorado Desert under trash dumped at the base of Mt. San Jacinto in the vicinity of Cabazon, Riverside County. The only large shrub is Creosote (Larrea tridentata). The seasonal Whitewater River provides sufficient moisture near the surface. (Papenfuss and Parham 2013)

The legless lizard (genus Anniella) is a burrowing species associated with sandy or loose loamy soils under the sparse vegetation of beaches, chaparral, or pine-oak woodland; or under sycamores, cottonwoods, or oaks growing on stream terraces. Legless lizards also occur in desert scrub. Legless lizards are often found under surface objects such as logs, rocks, and leaf litter. Soil moisture is essential for the species; Legless lizards die if they are unable to reach a moist substrate. (USFS 2006 Forest Plan Species Accounts). Legless lizards are both diurnal and crepuscular, and in warm weather, nocturnal (Stebbins and McGinnis 2012). Their prey

Page 98

includes a variety of ground-dwelling and their larvae. Feeing takes place on the surface or just below (usually in leaf litter under bushes) (Stebbins and McGinnis 2012).

Breeding occurs in early spring through July. Eggs have been observed in the oviducts of females from July to October. Gestation is approximately 4 months. Litters of one to four live young are born September–November. Predictable seasonal movements have not been reported for this species in California. Some long-distance wandering, related to temporarily available food sources, could occur. Legless lizards usually forage at the base of shrubs or other vegetation, either on the surface or in leaf litter or sandy soil just beneath. They feed primarily on larvae, small adult insects, and spiders. (USFS 2006 Forest Plan Species Accounts)

The former A. pulchra, a species of special concern (Jennings and Hayes 1994), is now divided into five species. This means A. pulchra has a smaller distribution than previously recognized, thereby enhancing concern about its conservation status. The remaining four species have even smaller ranges, some of which are degraded or threatened by human activities. Much of the range of A. stebbinsi is already compromised by urban development. (Papenfuss and Parham 2013)

The conservation status of the legless lizard is not well known due to the difficultly in adequately censuring this fossorial species. Very little is known about this species, its habitat and threats. Their fossorial nature and low thermal preference results in them being able to stay under the duff and litter and emerge at night and not be seen. (Source: USFS 2006 Forest Plan Species Accounts)

Occurrence in the Analysis Area: While this species is generally more of a coastal species, there is habitat on the North Slope that appears to be suitable in the lower parts of drainages and legless lizards in the genus Anniella have been documented in the Mojave Desert. According to the new distribution map (Papenfuss and Parham 2013) displayed above, there are no records for legless lizards in the genus Anniella on the north side of the San Bernardino Mountains. The closest documented occurrences are in Cable Canyon on the coastal side of the San Bernardino Mountains (USFS 2006 Forest Plan Species Accounts; Calherps website) and possibly a record near Lake Silverwood (Berkeley MVZ). The likelihood of occurrence in the analysis area is considered relatively low. However, the species may be present and undetected due to the difficulty in surveying for this species and the low number of surveys in this part of the San Bernardino Mountains due to accessibility and ruggedness.

IV-1.4.6.2 Northern Three-Lined Boa (Lichanura orcutti) The taxonomy for rosy boas in California has recently changed with two species being currently identified: the northern three-lined boa (Lichanura orcutti) and the rosy boa (Lichanura trivirgata). Formerly, Lichanura trivirgata was divided into two subspecies, L.t. gracia (desert rosy boa) and L.t. roseofusca (coastal rosy boa) (http://www.californiaherps.com/snakes/). The northern three-lined boa is a Forest Service Sensitive species and a BLM Sensitive species.

Life History and Baseline Information: This snake is a heavy-bodied snake with smooth shiny scales and a blunt, but tapered tail. The head is only a little wider than the neck. This species occurs in southern California from San Diego County north into the Mojave Desert and east into Page 99

the Sonoran Desert of California, but is absent from the Imperial Valley and in part of extreme southern San Diego county (where boas are a different species - Lichanura trivirgata) (Calherps website).

It inhabits arid scrublands, semi-arid shrublands, rocky shrublands, rocky deserts, canyons, and other rocky areas. It appears to be common in riparian areas, but does not require permanent water. The taxon's elevational range is from sea level to 6,790 feet. These boas are primarily active at dawn, dusk, and at night, rarely in daylight, but may be active in the morning, especially in cool weather. In the hottest and coldest months of the year, remains inactive in burrows or under surface debris. They are good climbers. Boas eat rodents, small birds, lizards, small snakes, and amphibians and they kill prey by constriction. These boas are live-bearing with young born October-November. (Source: USFS 2006 Forest Plan Species Account)

Its continued survival may be threatened in part by a recent increase in poaching, precipitated by its popularity in the pet trade and evidenced by the amount of websites shown by an Internet search. Three-lined boas are moderately-sized, docile snakes that are relatively easy to care for in captivity. Additional factors that may be leading to the decline of this subspecies in southern California include habitat loss, roads, increased fire frequency, and urban light pollution. (Source: USFS 2006 Forest Plan Species Account)

Occurrence in the Analysis Area: There is suitable habitat for this species and it is likely to occur within the analysis area. The closest documented occurrences are near the Mojave Forks Dam and near Kinley Creek.

IV-1.4.6.3 Southern Rubber Boa (Charina bottae umbratica) The southern rubber boa is a Forest Service Sensitive species and listed as Threatened by the California Endangered Species Act. The SBNF has a habitat management guide for southern rubber boa on the SBNF (USFS 1985).

Life History and Baseline Information: Southern rubber boas are state-listed as threatened and considered a Forest Service Sensitive species. Southern rubber boas are secretive snakes that occur in a variety of montane forest habitats including chaparral, woodlands, mixed-conifer forest, and riparian areas. They are typically found from sea level to approximately 9,000 feet in elevation. They tend to be associated with vegetatively-productive sites, usually with deep, well- developed soils. Favored cover includes rotting logs, rocky outcrops, and other surface debris. Primary prey includes small mammals, lizards, and amphibians. Southern rubber boas are generally inactive between June 1 and September 30 and November 15 to February 28.

The southern rubber boa is known to occur in the San Jacinto Mountains and the San Bernardino Mountains. Most of the records for southern rubber boa in the San Bernardino Mountains are within the mixed conifer belt between Lake Arrowhead, Big Bear, and Barton Flats. This snake is threatened by development and increased recreational use of forested areas where it occurs. The SBNF Habitat Management Guide for rubber boas (USFS 1985) contains management direction and species information. This species is rare in the San Bernardino Mountains, and the population trends for this species are unknown.

Page 100

Rubber boas are vulnerable to habitat loss from development on private land, water diversion or extraction, and land use activities that destroy soil or surface cover. The majority of known rubber boa locations are on private lands. The lush, mesic forests that are prime habitat for this species tend to be highly interspersed with private lands (e.g., around Lake Arrowhead and Idyllwild). Crestline to the Snow Valley Ski Area has long been considered the best southern rubber boa habitat in the San Bernardino Mountains. Currently, 44 percent of this area is private land subject to development.

Of the known and potential habitat in the San Bernardino Mountains, roughly 81 percent, is on public lands managed by the Forest Service. Stewart considered the most pervasive habitat impacts on National Forest System lands to be personal use fuelwood harvesting and off- highway vehicle use. He estimated that 46 percent of the known and potential southern rubber boa habitat received high to moderate impacts from fuelwood harvesting and approximately 35 percent received high to moderate impacts from OHV use. Other habitat impacts cited were fern picking, commercial timber harvesting, fire management, skiing, and land exchanges.

Stewart estimated that most of the suitable southern rubber boa habitat on private lands would be lost in the next 20-40 years, and in a worst case scenario, most of the habitat that is heavily impacted by OHVs and fuelwood harvest could also be lost. In his opinion, if this happened, the resulting loss of 50-60 percent of the suitable habitat would endanger the San Bernardino Mountains southern rubber boa population. (Source: USFS 2006 Forest Plan Species Accounts)

Occurrence in the Analysis Area: There are records of southern rubber boa on the north side of Big Bear Lake within about two and a half miles of the analysis area. While the proposed trail areas are outside of the known distribution for this species, portions of the analysis area contain suitable habitat that could support this species. It is a very difficult species to detect during surveys; lack of records does not necessarily indicate that the species is not present.

IV-1.4.6.4 San Bernardino Ringneck Snake (Diadophis punctatus modestus) The San Bernardino ringneck snake is a Forest Service Sensitive species and a Federal Species of Concern (formerly USFWS Candidate species).

Life History and Baseline Information: Ringneck snakes are rarely seen on the surface, but are usually found under rocks, logs, or leaf litter. Ringneck snakes can be found in a variety of open, relatively rocky habitats, including mixed montane chaparral and annual grasslands. They are most often located in somewhat moist microhabitats near intermittent streams. Ringneck snakes are not strongly associated with riparian habitats, but the apparent importance of tree frogs and slender salamanders in their diet suggests they may seek out and require moist microclimates.

Woodpiles, flat rocks, rotting logs, and small holes in the ground are all used for cover. These snakes avoid open or barren areas. Ringneck snakes appear to move seasonally between summer habitats and hibernacula. They may aggregate at dens for winter hibernation. These snakes may exhibit site tenacity, establishing long-term home ranges. In one study, snakes could still be located within 32 feet of their initial capture point even after a number of years, indicating strong site tenacity. A clutch of three eggs is laid from April to July, hatching from August to October. Page 101

Populations are believed to be declining as a result of loss of suitable habitat primarily from development on private land. (Source: USFS 2006 Forest Plan Species Account)

Occurrence in the Analysis Area: San Bernardino ringneck snakes are known to occur around Big Bear Lake. Dawn-o-day and other canyons have suitable habitat for this species. It is a very difficult species to detect during surveys; it may occur in the analysis area.

IV-1.4.6.5 San Bernardino Mountain Kingsnake (Lampropeltis zonata parvirubra) The San Bernardino mountain kingsnake is a Forest Service Sensitive Species and a CDFW Species of Special Concern.

Life History and Baseline Information: The most favored habitats are yellow pine communities, but mountain kingsnakes are found in chaparral, woodland, and riparian habitats as well. The San Bernardino mountain kingsnake is typically found in sunlit canyons with rocky outcrops. Partially-shaded rock outcrops and large downed logs for refugia and basking sites appear to be important microhabitat elements. California mountain kingsnakes consume lizards, snakes, nestling birds, bird eggs, and small mammals.

Mountain kingsnakes exhibit diurnal and crepuscular activity patterns from mid-March through mid-October and nocturnal activity patterns during warmer months. Activity is more restricted at higher elevations.

The biggest threat to San Bernardino mountain kingsnake is poaching by collectors and the destruction of microhabitat caused by poachers (e.g., dismantling rock outcrops and shredding down logs). A significant illegal commercial trade in this attractive snake continues to fuel a demand for poaching. San Bernardino mountain kingsnake would benefit from control of poaching and protection of known localities on National Forest System lands in southern California. (Source: USFS 2006 Forest Plan Species Account)

Occurrence in the Analysis area: This species is known to occur in and near the analysis area. There is a 1996 CNDDB record for San Bernardino mountain kingsnake in Furnace Canyon at 6600 feet, a Forest Service record from 2012 along 3N14 between Big Pine Flats and Little Pine Flats, and a record off of 3N14 NW of Rattlesnake Mountain. It is likely that it occurs throughout the analysis area wherever suitable habitat occurs.

IV-1.4.6.6 Two-Striped Garter Snake (Thamnophis hammondii) The two-striped garter snake is a Forest Service Sensitive Species and a CDFW Species of Special Concern.

Page 102

Life History and Baseline Information– Two-Striped Garter Snake: Two-striped garter snakes inhabit perennial and intermittent streams and ponds in chaparral, oak woodland, and forest habitats. The species is primarily associated with aquatic habitats that are bordered by riparian vegetation and provide open areas nearby for basking. Two-striped garter snakes also occupy adjacent grassland and coastal sage scrub in upland areas during the winter. Adult snakes feed primarily on tadpoles, toads, frogs, fish, fish eggs, and earthworms. These snakes are highly aquatic. They are found up to 8000' in elevation. Two-striped garter snakes give birth to live young.

Quantity and quality of habitat for two-striped garter snake is declining through much of its range. Over the last century, two-striped garter snake has disappeared from more than 40 percent of its historic range in California. Most of this decline has occurred since 1945. Factors leading to the decline of this species include habitat conversion and degradation resulting from urbanization, construction of reservoirs, and cement-lining of stream channels in southern California. Other threats include habitat modification resulting from livestock grazing, predation by introduced fishes and bullfrogs, and depletion of prey base. (Source: USFS 2006 Forest Plan Species Account)

Occurrence in the Analysis area – Two-Striped Garter Snake: Two-striped garter snakes are known from Coxey Meadow and Coxey Creek in the project vicinity. Typical habitat for this species is not located within the analysis area but is directly adjacent at Coxey Pond.

IV-1.4.6.7 Potential Effects Common to All Sensitive Reptiles (Southern California Legless Lizard, Southern Rubber Boa, Northern Three-Lined Boa, San Bernardino Mountain Kingsnake, San Bernardino Ringneck Snake, and Two-Striped Garter Snake): Under the Proposed Action, most of the new trail network would use existing user-created trails in which habitat has already been degraded. Minor reroutes of routes that are running in or adjacent to features such as riparian areas would occur as part of this project and newly designated mixed use roads may also result in ground disturbance and vegetation removal. Therefore, only a small amount of currently suitable habitat would be damaged as part of new construction and changes in road designation. Closure and restoration of user-created trails as proposed in this project, would result in a positive effect by restoring habitat for these species.

All of these species burrow in soft dirt, under litter, rocks, and logs. Individual reptiles would continue to be at risk as a result of human activities and vehicles/equipment on the trails, trailering sites, and access roads. See Part II-3.2.8 for discussion of the potential risk of death/injury. The reduction of trail density may reduce the risk of death/injury.

Cumulative Effects for California Legless Lizard, Southern Rubber Boa, Northern Three-Lined Boa, San Bernardino Mountain Kingsnake, San Bernardino Ringneck Snake, Two-Striped Garter Snake: See Part II-3.1.3 for a discussion of current and foreseeable future activities. Most of the Forest Service and non-Forest Service fuels reduction activities that are in progress or in the foreseeable future have potential to affect the same Sensitive reptiles and amphibians that may occur in analysis area. The fuels reduction projects have measures to limit effects to any of the reptiles associated with riparian habitats. While the fuels reduction projects have the potential to affect individual reptiles, the habitat effects are temporary. Page 103

While fuels reduction projects on NFS lands attempt to retain important reptile/amphibian habitat components and include measures to avoid direct effects, the same is probably not true for activities on non-federal land. Vegetation/fuels projects on private lands do not generally carry the same levels of rare reptile habitat protection as those on the SBNF and have likely resulted in disturbance to these species, in short-term and, potentially, in long-term alterations of habitat. Since the rubber boa is a state-listed species, some of the agencies doing work on non-federal lands have incorportated monitors and avoidance measures for this species. The level of effects and habitat alteration/losses from hazard tree and downed log removal is unknown and likely varies by land ownership.

These reasonably forseeable cumulative effects, together with the potential effects of the Proposed Action, affect a small fraction of the range and habitat of these species.

Determination of Effects – California Legless Lizard, Southern Rubber Boa, Northern Three- Lined Boa, San Bernardino Mountain Kingsnake, San Bernardino Ringneck Snake, and Two- Striped Garter Snake: It is my determination that implementation of any of the action alternatives may impact Sensitive reptile individuals or habitat, but are not likely to result in a trend toward Federal listing of California legless lizard, southern rubber boa, northern three-lined boa, San Bernardino mountain kingsnake, San Bernardino ringneck snake, or two-striped garter snake. The project is not expected to interfere with maintaining viable well-distributed populations of these Sensitive species. The Proposed Action and Alternative 3 may be beneficial to these species over the existing condition as restoration of user-created trails would result in more un-bisected habitat in the area.

IV-1.4.7 – Bald Eagle (Halieaeetus leucocephalus) During the Forest Plan revision, bald eagles were federally-listed as Threatened; however, they have subsequently been de-listed and now considered a Forest Service Sensitive species. It remains protected under the California Endangered Species Act as a state-listed Endangered species. It is also protected by the federal Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act.

Life History and Baseline Information: Historically, bald eagles bred in a variety of habitats in California, including offshore islands; coastal cliffs and pinnacles; and along coastal rivers, interior valley streams and wetlands, and mountain lakes and rivers. Bald eagle nest sites are always associated with bodies of water, usually lakes and rivers that support abundant fish, waterfowl, or other waterbird prey. In California, approximately 70% of the breeding eagle population is associated with water bodies larger than 494 acres.

Nest trees include a variety of hardwoods as well as conifers. Most eagle nesting territories are now found in montane habitat in ponderosa pine and mixed conifer forests. Nest trees are usually found within 5,197 feet of water and are typically in mature and old-growth conifer stands. Nests are usually constructed in trees that provide an unobstructed view of a water body and that are typically the dominant or codominant tree in the surrounding stand. DBH of nest trees in California and Oregon averages 41-46 inches.

Page 104

In southern California, nesting most often occurs in large trees near water, but occasionally nests are on cliffs or the ground. Eagles usually require areas free from disturbance during nesting. Snags and dead-topped live trees are important for perch and roost sites. Bald eagles typically forage in waters less than 1,641 feet from perching habitat.

In southern California, bald eagles use a variety of habitat types for wintering activities, which include foraging, perching, and roosting. While most birds tend to use mixed conifer forest adjacent to lakes, some use chaparral types and oak/sycamore groves. Proximity to available food appears to be the primary factor determining habitat suitability during the winter; bald eagles seem to adapt to habitat variation where food is abundant.

Bald eagles winter along rivers, lakes, or reservoirs that support abundant fish or waterbird prey and that have large trees or snags for perch or roost sites. Bald eagles often roost communally during the winter, typically in mature trees or snags that are isolated from human disturbance.

Wintering bald eagles in the San Bernardino Mountains appear to be fairly tolerant of human activity during the day. It is common to see bald eagles perching in very tall trees in residential areas around Big Bear Lake and Lake Arrowhead. It appears that proximity to prey in the lake is the primary factor in determining day use areas. Known night roosts around Big Bear, Baldwin, and Silverwood lakes are generally within a mile of water on steep north- or northwest-facing slopes with green trees. These night roost groves are often used communally and in successive years. Night roost sites often possess different habitat components than daytime use areas, including day perch sites.

While day perches are generally snags or dead-topped trees, night roost groves generally have live trees and a more closed canopy. Night roosts are often in sites that are sheltered from the weather by landforms and in areas of coniferous stands that provide insulation from the weather.

A relatively large population of bald eagles overwinters in the San Bernardino Mountains, using lakes and rivers for foraging on fish and waterfowl. They are generally present in the San Bernardino Mountains between December 1st and April 1st with numbers sometimes reaching 25-30 during the months of January and February.

While the Big Bear area is used mostly by wintering bald eagles, at least one pair of bald eagles appears to have taken up year-round residence since 2007. The pair of bald eagles has been seen throughout all seasons of the year. The pair is generally centered in the Grout Bay area but has been observed in all parts of Big Bear Lake, Stanfield Marsh, and Baldwin Lake during spring, summer, and fall months. Incidental reports also suggest that at least one bald eagle may have taken up residence at Lake Gregory in Crestline during summer of 2010 (source: Rare Bird Alerts). While 15-20 years ago, it was uncommon to see a bald eagle in the San Bernardino Mountains in any season other than winter, it is now fairly common to see a bald eagle on any of the mountain lakes suggesting that we may be seeing a shift from simply being a wintering site to supporting nesting pairs.

Bald eagles can generally be found on Big Bear Lake, Baldwin Lake, Lake Arrowhead, Silverwood Lake, Lake Gregory, Grass Valley Lake, Green Valley Lake, and Erwin Lake. Page 105

Suspected occasional winter and summer foraging habitat also includes Deep Creek, Coxey Pond, Holcomb Creek, Santa Ana River, Jenks Lake, and a pond in Angelus Oaks.

Bald eagles occur in a variety of habitats. Key habitat components are large bodies of water or rivers with abundant fish, and large trees or snags with heavy limbs or broken tops. Bald eagles feed on fish, carrion, and occasional small mammals. While wintering in the San Bernardino Mountains, eagles primarily forage on waterfowl, secondarily on fish. Bald eagles have also been observed feeding on dead calves on Los Flores Ranch north of Lake Silverwood.

Two unsuccessful nesting attempts (where eggs were laid but did not hatch) were made in the early 1990s near Silverwood Lake, both in Miller Canyon; since then, no nesting attempts where eggs were laid had been recorded in the San Bernardino Mountains until 2012.

There are three locations on Big Bear Lake (Grout Bay, Eagle Point, and Pineknot) where nests have been constructed. The Pineknot nest was built in 2007 and tended again in 2008. Behaviors consistent with incubation were not observed. The Pineknot nest tree was within falling distance of a Bear Valley Electric powerline and the tree was felled to protect the powerline in fall 2008 after the Forest Service determined that the tree was not being used as an active nest.

A nest was constructed at Eagle Point in the early 1990s and tended for a few winters until a winter storm blew most of the nest out of the tree. The nest was never rebuilt and the tree it was in fell down during a storm in winter 2009/2010. In winter 2010/2011, a pair of eagles built a nest in a tree adjacent to the old Eagle Point nest tree. This nest has been tended during winter months every year since then. However, behaviors consistent with incubation have not been observed.

A third nest was located in the Grout Bay area on National Forest System land. A pair of bald eagles successfully reared a single chick in 2012; this was the first record of bald eagles successfully reproducing in the San Bernardino Mountains. Even though incubation was observed, no chicks hatched in 2013, possibly due to a severe winter storm with sub-zero temperatures early in incubation. In 2014, two chicks hatched but did not survive a rain-on-snow event with high winds in mid-February. In 2015, a single chick successfully fledged.

In 2013, a new nest was built near Lake Arrowhead on NFS lands. Although incubation was suspected, no chicks were ever observed. In 2014, a single chick fledged from the nest site. In 2015, a single chick fledged.

A decade ago, it was rare to see bald eagles during non-winter months. However, bald eagles are now regularly observed in the San Bernardino Mountains throughout the year. This is due to the establishment of breeding territories and the successful production of juveniles, resulting in resident bald eagles.

Baseline Conditions for Bald Eagles: In the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s it was typical to have 15-25 bald eagles wintering in the Big Bear/Baldwin Lake area. However, since 2004, the wintering population numbers have dropped to around 6-8 eagles for the winter high counts. Page 106

This could be a factor of local weather conditions (i.e., when Big Bear Lake freezes over early in the season, eagles may bypass this area during migration), or regional weather conditions (i.e., in mild winters, they may not migrate down this far), less need to concentrate during winter months due to more habitat availability (i.e., reports of eagles wintering in other parts of southern California may have increased [or it may be an artifact of improved sighting dissemination through the internet]), or other unidentified factors.

On the other hand, changes in the wintering habitat quality and quantity in the Big Bear/Baldwin Lake area over the same period may be responsible for the decline in local overwintering eagle numbers.

Past effects to the San Bernardino Mountains wintering population of bald eagles include development around the mountain lakes (Big Bear Lake, Lake Arrowhead, Silverwood Lake State Park, Mojave River, Little Green Valley Lake, Lake Gregory, and Grass Valley Lake). Development around mountain lakes has resulted in a degradation of habitat quality through several factors: loss of perch trees considered hazards to private/public sites; increased levels of disturbance to foraging areas with increased shoreline usage; disturbance at night roosts; and potential effects in unidentified night roosts.

Most of the growth in the Big Bear basin is associated with single homes. Two areas, Eagle Point Estates and Castle Glen, were approved in the 1990s and have been developing according to their approvals. Both areas contained perch and night roost sites. The developments have reduced the habitat quality and are now rarely used by eagles for perching (probably the same is true for night roosting although no tracking is occurring). The habitat in those areas is now unsuitable for nesting even though the proximity to the lake should make those areas high quality.

Within the last decade, suitable perch areas on private lands around foraging sites around the mountain lakes have been substantially altered. Additionally, much of the shoreline foraging habitat (sheltered, relatively shallow areas supporting waterfowl) has also been developed and/or altered. Most of these changes have occurred without mitigation for losses of bald eagle habitat.

Past timber harvesting and wildfires may have affected availability of day use and night roost habitat in the mountain range.

Hazard trees have recently been removed along the shoreline, highways, and around Forest Service recreational residence tracts on the north and south sides of Big Bear Lake. Hazard tree removal on federal and non-federal lands have resulted in decreased availability of perch sites for day use.

Occurrences in the Analysis Area: There is a record of a bald eagle occurring at Coxey Pond. Suitable habitat for this species does not occur anywhere else in the project area. An individual bald eagle may occasionally forage for ducks and fish at Coxey pond but their occurrence is considered very infrequent and nesting in the project area is unlikely.

Page 107

Potential Effects – Bald Eagle: No effects to habitat quality or availability would occur as a result of this project. There are no new trails proposed in the vicinity of Coxey pond; thus, no disturbance effects would be expected.

Cumulative Effects for Bald Eagles: Because no effects are expected from the Proposed Action and Alternative 3, there are no cumulative effects.

Determination of Effects – Bald Eagle: It is my determination that implementation of the proposed project and Alternative 3 would not impact bald eagles. The project is not expected to interfere with maintaining viable well-distributed populations of bald eagles.

IV-1.4.8 –Willow Flycatcher (Empidonax traillii) There are five subspecies of the willow flycatcher currently recognized with three of these subspecies occurring in California.

E.t. brewsteri (little willow flycatcher) breeds in California from Tulare County north, along the western side of the Sierra Nevada and Cascades, extending to the coast in northern California. The little willow flycatcher is a Forest Service Sensitive species (Craig and Williams 1998). E.t. adastus breeds in California east of the Sierra/Cascade axis, from the Oregon border into Modoc County and possibly into northern Inyo County. There is a lack of information for this subspecies in California (Craig and Williams 1998). These two subspecies are CDFW Endangered species and USFWS Bird of Conservation Concern. E.t. extimus (southwestern willow flycatcher) is federally-listed as Endangered. Suitable nesting habitat for the endangered subspecies (E.t. extimus ) is not present in the project area. During migration, it is impossible to determine which subspecies of willow flycatcher is present.

Life History and Baseline Information: The willow flycatcher is a riparian-obligate species. This species occurs primarily in densely vegetated riparian habitats, preferring streamside associations of cottonwood (Populus spp.), willow (Salix spp.), alder (Alnus spp.), and other riparian vegetation. Willow flycatchers also occur in woodland edges, meadows, and brushy fields.

Willow flycatchers are insectivores that forage on aerial insects by sallying out from exposed perches and capturing them on the wing; they also glean insects from riparian vegetation. All subspecies of willow flycatcher are Neotropical migrants that winter in Mexico, Central America, and South America.

Habitat for migrant willow flycatchers is being affected by development and encroachment throughout southern California. Throughout southern California, another ongoing effect to this species is from encroachment into the riparian zones by recreationists using the area for off-road vehicle use, enjoying nature, cooling off in the water, mountain biking, dog walking, etc. This type of encroachment can be expected to disturb migrant birds, possibly causing displacement, degraded habitat, and individual mortality. It is also likely that desert-influence springs and riparian zones that once supported important stop-over habitat for migrant willow flycatcher habitat has been degraded or lost through water diversions and development. (Source: USFS 2006 Forest Plan Species Account) Page 108

Occurrence in the Analysis Area – Migrant Willow Flycatcher: Migrant willow flycatchers are known to occur near the analysis area in spring and fall. They have been observed within several miles of the analysis area (including Holcomb Creek, Grout Bay, Jacoby Canyon, and Caribou Creek) are likely to occur in the analysis area wherever there is suitable habitat. The analysis area contains ephemeral and intermittent streams which have willow and riparian vegetation.

The habitats used is during migration is less specific than during breeding. During migration, they have been known to use narrow, linear riparian strips, shrubs and trees in parks and gardens, and agricultural areas (Craig and Williams 1998). The habitat patch does not appear contiguous or large enough to support nesting of the federally-endangered southwestern willow flycatcher subspecies.

Potential Effects to Migrant Willow Flycatcher: Existing user-created trails currently travel in stream courses and riparian areas that have habitat for migrant willow flycatchers. These trails would be restored or rerouted out of the riparian habitat resulting in a potential gain of undisturbed suitable habitat. Because of the reroutes and restoration of some user-created trails, beneficial effects to willow flycatcher habitat would be expected.

Trails in the Proposed Action were selected in part due the routes not affecting high quality riparian habitat. There are a few sections of proposed trails that cross small patches of riparian habitat. These patches are not considered very high quality habitat for this species but they may be occasionally used by migrant flycatchers. If flycatchers are present in those riparian areas, use and maintenance of the trail system could result in disturbance when vehicles and people are present. This would most likely result in flushing and displacement farther away from the activities.

Under Alternative 3, some road maintenance including trimming of willows on or near 3N14 would occur to improve visibility for vehicles traveling between 3N16 and 4N16. The riparian habitat along the roadway is not considered high quality willow flycatcher habitat. Trimming and maintenance of riparian vegetation is expected to be minimal and not adversely affect the integrity of the riparian habitat.

With the Proposed Action and Alternative 3, the effects to this species and its habitat would be expected to be beneficial over the long-term because of the reroutes and closures of user created trails that are in riparian systems.

Cumulative Effects for Migrant Willow Flycatcher: See the cumulative effects discussion in Part II-3.2.13. Riparian habitat, on and off-NFS lands, has been dramatically affected in California due to development, water extractions/diversions/impoundment, drought, grazing, and recreational use. Those pressures on riparian habitat are likely to continue and the the effects may be magnified over the long project life due to climate change.

Because this project would be expected to result in net beneficial effects for this species, this Proposed Action and Alternative 3 are not expected to add to the reasonably foreseeable effects to this species in the San Bernardino Mountains. Page 109

Determination of Effects – Migrant Willow Flycatcher: It is my determination that either of the action alternatives may impact individuals or habitat, but are not likely to result in a trend toward Federal listing of migrant willow flycatchers. The project is not expected to interfere with maintaining viable well-distributed populations of migrant willow flycatchers.

IV-1.4.9 - Gray Vireo (Vireo vicinior) The gray vireo is a Forest Service Sensitive species and a CDFW Species of Special Concern.

Life History and Baseline Information: Within California, gray vireo is currently known as a summer resident in the mountains of the eastern Mojave Desert, on the northeastern slope of the San Bernardino Mountains. They are known to nest in Cactus Flats/Lone Valley area, Round Valley and Rose Mine and likely breed locally in similar habitat elsewhere in those mountains. In 1988, territorial males were located in the upper Crystal Creek drainage, west of Cushenbury Canyon.

In southern California, gray vireos breed in two general habitat types: montane chaparral dominated by chamise (Adenostoma fasciculatum), redshank (A. sparsifolium), ceanothus (Ceanothus spp.); and pinyon-juniper woodland. Canopy cover at nest sites varies from nearly complete closure in chaparral to more open habitat in pinyon/juniper woodland where canopy closure may be quite low. Throughout the breeding range, a common feature is the presence of patches of continuous shrub cover ranging from 0.5 meters–2 meters in height.

The breeding season for gray vireo generally begins in May and lasts until August. Gray vireos build open-cup, pensile nest constructed of bark, plant fibers and grasses, lined with fine fibers or down. Nests are not reused, but some nest materials may be recycled to construct new nests.

Gray vireos migrate annually between their breeding and wintering grounds. During fall, they migrate short distances south to their wintering grounds in southern Baja California, southern Arizona, Big Bend in Texas, and Sonora, Mexico. Fall migration begins in early August and lasts to early October. The spring migration period in California is March through May.

The gray vireo diet consists of , including stinkbugs, tree hoppers and cicadas, tree crickets, short-horned grasshoppers, flies, , moths, and damselflies. Gray vireos forage in dense foliage on insects gleaned from leaves, twigs, branches, and trunks of bushes and small trees; they spend most of their foraging time 3–12 feet above the ground and within the inner two-thirds of the plant. Gray vireos forage within a shrub or tree, catching prey primarily through gleaning, stalking, and hawk-capture.

It is thought that the entire California gray vireo population may consist of only a few dozen pairs. However, they noted that there remains a substantial amount of chaparral habitat that has not been surveyed for this species. Early work by Grinnell and associates indicates that gray vireo was historically more widespread, particularly in the San Gabriel and San Jacinto Mountains. Little is known about the extent or cause of the species' decline. By 1999, gray vireos had apparently disappeared from numerous parts of its southern California range, including the western section of Joshua Tree National Park; the Grapevine, Kingston, and San Page 110

Gabriel Mountains; the Phelan/Cajon Pass/Hesperia region; and portions of Riverside and San Diego Counties.

Habitat loss and brood parasitism by brown-headed cowbird (Molothrus ater) are likely causes of gray vireo population decline and range contraction since the 1940s. Like most vireos, gray vireos are considered highly susceptible to cowbird nest parasitism, which has been implicated as a possible reason for the species' decline. Cowbird parasitism of gray vireo nests has been documented in the San Bernardino Mountains. Habitat fragmentation may make areas more accessible to brown-headed cowbirds, which may adversely affect gray vireos through brood- parasitism. Human activities, including residential development, golf courses and agriculture, attract cowbirds thereby increasing this potential threat to gray vireos.

Stand replacing fires in pinyon are also a major threat. Nonnative grasses that may be introduced after removal of pinyon/juniper habitat could contribute to type conversion of the habitat to grassland. Livestock grazing and fires of unnatural frequency or intensity have modified and may continue to modify the extent and composition of shrub cover to the detriment of gray vireos. Human recreation pressures in the form of off-road motorized vehicles and recreational shooting has the potential to cause disturbance to nesting vireos. (Source: USFS 2006 Forest Plan Species Accounts)

Occurrence in the Analysis area – Gray Vireo: Gray vireos are known from the analysis area and are likely to occur throughout. While breeding has not been documented, it likely occurs.

Potential Effects to Gray Vireo: The Design Features have measures to locate and avoid active nests during the establishment of reroute sections of trail. As such, the likelihood of direct losses of gray vireos is considered low. If gray vireos forage or nest near the OHV routes or trailering sites they would experience disturbance. The effects of that disturbance would likely be low because individual vireos in proximity to OHV activities would likely be habituated to those disturbance levels. As such, displacement would be expected to be unlikely.

The Proposed Action and Alternative 3 would restore user-created trails and reduce trail densities in the analysis area. This would have a positive effect on habitat quality in the area when compared to the existing condition.

Cumulative Effects for Gray Vireo: See the cumulative effects discussion in Part II-3.2.13. Pinyon woodland habitat within the range of the gray vireo, on and off-NFS lands, has been dramatically affected in California due to development, fire, and grazing. Those pressures on pinyon woodland habitat are likely to continue and the the effects may be magnified over the long project life due to climate change.

This Proposed Action and Alternative 3 would not likely add to the reasonably foreseeable effects to this species in the San Bernardino Mountains.

Determination of Effects – Gray Vireo: It is my determination that the Proposed Action and Alternative 3 may impact individuals or habitat, but are not likely to result in a trend toward

Page 111

Federal listing of the gray vireo. The project is not expected to interfere with maintaining viable well-distributed populations of this species.

IV-1.4.10 - Fringed Myotis (Myotis thysanodes) The fringed myotis is a Forest Service Sensitive species, a BLM Sensitive species, a Western Bat Working Group High Priority species (indicating that it is imperiled or at high risk of imperilment).

Life History and Baseline Information - Fringed Myotis: Fringed myotis occupies a wide variety of habitats from low desert scrub to high-elevation coniferous forests. In California, the species occurs in mixed deciduous/coniferous forests, redwood and giant sequoia groves, and Joshua tree woodlands. Roost sites are essential for metabolic economy, for juvenile growth and as night roosts to consume prey. The fringed myotis roosts in crevices in a variety of situations such as caves, buildings, mineshafts, cliff faces, trees, and bridges for maternity and night roosts. Hibernation has only been documented in buildings and mines.

In the Laguna Mountains of San Diego County, a radio-telemetry study provided a means to locate hidden roosting bats. Five roosting fringed myotis were discovered along the eastern escarpment in separate rock crevices on inaccessible cliff faces. One post-lactating female roosted in a south-facing cliff face in chaparral and was located 7.9 miles away from the capture site.

Mating occurs during autumn, but ovulation, fertilization, and implantation take place from April to May. Females give birth to one young per year in May, June, or early July. Maternity colonies are typically small (fewer than 40 females), but may contain up to several hundred individuals. Due to thermoregulatory requirements, maternity colonies may shift locations within a roost.

Fringed myotis are year-round residents of California, where they hibernate but are also capable of periodic winter activity. Excluding periods of hibernation, individual bats emerge from the roost to forage approximately 1-2 hours after sunset. There may be some level of activity throughout the night. Fringed myotis feeds on a variety of insect prey, including small beetles and moths. The species may forage in and among vegetation along forest edges and over the forest canopy.

Very few records exist in California and the limited data available suggests serious population declines. Not only have historic maternity colonies disappeared, but those remaining appear to contain significantly fewer animals. In general, declines of bat populations can often be attributed to roost site disturbance, loss of foraging habitat and loss of roost sites. Many bats are shy and highly vulnerable to disturbances at roost sites. Disturbance at roost sites can lead to short and long-term abandonment. Roost sites are lost as abandoned mines collapse or are destroyed to provide for human safety.

Generally, bats have high site fidelity to winter and maternity roosts. Low reproductive potential, high longevity and high roost fidelity make populations highly sensitive to roost threats. Local extirpation may possibly occur as a result of roost disturbance. Disturbance that Page 112

arouses a bat during their winter hibernation will cause loss of accumulated fat reserves and possible starvation. Loss of roost sites reduces the distribution and often the number of bats to fewer sites. This makes remaining populations even more susceptible to potential impacts and greater loss of individuals or populations at the local or regional level.

Bats often utilize a variety of habitats for foraging but tend to prefer those that are more open or are along edges. These conditions allow for more flight mobility and a broader prey base. Foraging habitat has been lost to urbanization and agriculture. This is particularly pronounced in riparian areas, valleys, oak woodland foothills, and coastal basins where there are concentrated areas of homes, businesses and agriculture. Livestock grazing may also eliminate forage and cover for insects. As a result, insect productivity may be reduced. Pesticide use may pose a threat to bats. Bats that primarily consume insects may be exposed to home and agricultural pesticides. Pesticides and other chemicals may accumulate within predators and lead to sickness or death. Fringed myotis are very sensitive to human disturbance at roost sites. (Source: USFS 2006 Forest Plan Species Account)

Occurrence in the Analysis Area – Fringed Myotis: Fringed bats have been detected on BLM land immediately adjacent to the analysis area, at Cactus Flats and Jacoby Canyon (SBCM surveys 2006) in similar pinyon/juniper habitat and at Cushenbury Springs (Kielhold 1993) and in Holcomb Valley (SBNF records). They are likely to occur in the analysis area.

Potential Effects to Fringed Myotis: The Proposed Action and Alternative 3 would not be expected to negatively affect the fringed myotis. Rock outcrops and cliff areas with suitable roosting sites were avoided during trail selection and the restoration of user-created routes would offer more uninterrupted foraging habitat. If tree felling is required during construction, re- routes, or maintenance of the trail (e.g., removal of hazard trees), individual bats roosting in dead trees may be flushed. Flushing during daytime could increase the likelihood of predation. The risk of that occurring is considered low due to the vegetation type.

Because the majority of trail use occurs during daytime hours, disturbance during critical night- time foraging and breeding activities would be very low. The Proposed Action and Alternative 3 are expected to be beneficial over the existing condition because of the habitat restoration efforts and reduced trail densities.

Cumulative Effects for Fringed Myotis: The analysis area for cumulative effects is the San Bernardino Mountains. See Part 3.2.13 for a discussion of ongoing and foreseeable future projects and cumulative effects. Riparian habitat, on and off-NFS lands, has been dramatically affected in California due to development, water extractions/diversions/ impoundment, drought, grazing, and recreational use. The continued development of the North Slope for mining can be expected to affect roosting habitat for this bat species. Those pressures on riparian and foraging habitat are likely to continue and the effects may be magnified over the long project life due to climate change.

Over the long life of this project, this proposed trail network would not likely add to the reasonably foreseeable effects to this species in the San Bernardino Mountains.

Page 113

Determination of Effects – Fringed Myotis: It is my determination that the Proposed Action and Alternative 3 may impact individuals or habitat, but are not likely to result in a trend toward Federal listing of the fringed myotis. The project is not expected to interfere with maintaining viable well-distributed populations of this species.

IV-1.4.11 - Townsend’s Big-Eared Bat (Corynorhinus townsendii) Townsend’s big-eared bat is a Forest Service Sensitive species, a CDFW Species of Special Concern, a BLM Sensitive species, and a Western Bat Working Group High priority species (indicating that it is imperiled or at high risk of imperilment). In June 2013, CDFW passed a motion to designate this species as a Candidate for Threatened/Endangered species status but a formal Notice of Finding has yet to be posted (http://www.dfg.ca.gov/biogeodata/cnddb/ pdfs/TEAnimals.pdf; pg. 12).

Life History and Baseline Information: The distribution of this species is strongly correlated with the availability of suitable caves and cave analogues (mines, rock shelters, tunnels, building) for roosting. Population centers occur in areas dominated by exposed, cavity forming rock and/or historic mining areas. Abandoned mines are particularly important as roost sites in areas where there are not suitable caves. A high degree of site fidelity has been noted for this species.

Townsend's big-eared bat can be found in a variety of habitats throughout California, from the moist coastal redwoods to the mid-elevation mixed conifers to the dry deserts, but are most commonly associated with desert scrub, mixed conifer, pinyon-juniper, and pine forest. Within these communities, these bats are most commonly associated with limestone caves, mines, lava tubes, buildings and tunnels. During hibernation, Townsend's big-eared bats typically prefer habitats with relatively cold (but above freezing) temperatures in quiet, undisturbed places. These areas are often in the more interior, thermally stable portions of caves and mines. During spring and summer, females establish maternity colonies in the warm parts of caves, mines, and buildings.

Female Townsend's big-eared bats form maternity colonies in early spring, usually returning to the same site every year. They give birth to a single offspring in late spring or early summer. Townsend's big-eared bat is a year-round resident in California and does not migrate. Townsend's big-eared bats emerge from the roost approximately 45 minutes after sunset and are thought to have two peak activity periods during the night. Townsend's big-eared bat feeds primarily on small moths, but also takes other insects including flies, lacewings, dung beetles, and sawflies. This bat flies slowly and is highly maneuverable, foraging both above and within forest canopies.

Drastic population declines have occurred in Townsend's big-eared bat in California throughout the last 40–60 years. These declines include a 52% loss in the number of maternity colonies, a 44% decline in the number of roosts, a 55% decline in the number of bats, and a 32% decline in the average size of remaining colonies. The status of particular populations is correlated with amount of disturbance to or loss of suitable roosting sites. In general, declines of bat populations can often be attributed to roost site disturbance, loss of foraging habitat and loss of roost sites. Many bats are shy and highly vulnerable to disturbances at roost sites. Disturbance at Page 114

roost sites can lead to short and long-term abandonment. Roost sites are lost as abandoned mines collapse or are destroyed to provide for human safety.

Generally, bats have high site fidelity to winter and maternity roosts. Low reproductive potential, high longevity and high roost fidelity make populations highly sensitive to roost threats. Local extirpation may possibly occur as a result of roost disturbance. Disturbance that arouses a bat during their winter hibernation will cause loss of accumulated fat reserves and possible starvation.

Loss of roost sites reduces the distribution and often the number of bats to fewer sites. This makes remaining populations even more susceptible to potential impacts and greater loss of individuals or populations at the local or regional level. The availability of roost sites provided by tree and shrub bark or foliage has been reduced by timber harvest and urbanization. Dam construction and water impoundments for water storage and flood control have resulted in losses of roosting habitat in rocky canyons.

Bats often utilize a variety of habitats for foraging but tend to prefer those that are more open or are along edges. These conditions allow for more flight mobility and a broader prey base. Foraging habitat has been lost to urbanization and agriculture. This is particularly pronounced in riparian areas, valleys, oak woodland foothills, and coastal basins where there are concentrated areas of homes, businesses and agriculture. Livestock grazing may also eliminate forage and cover for insects. As a result, insect productivity may be reduced. Pesticide use may pose a threat to bats. Bats that primarily consume insects may be exposed to home and agricultural pesticides. Pesticides and other chemicals may accumulate within predators and lead to sickness or death. Activities on NFS lands that could have effects on bats include rock climbing, livestock grazing, vegetation treatments and water extraction that would lead to the loss of a water source or riparian habitat (Source: USFS 2006 Forest Plan Species Account)

Occurrence in the Analysis Area - Townsend’s Big-Eared Bat: This species is known from the analysis area and vicinity in similar pinyon/juniper and desert transition habitats to the analysis area. This species likely uses the analysis area for foraging and roosting.

Potential Effects to Townsend’s Big-Eared Bat: The potential effects are similar to those described above for fringed bats. This species prefers mine shafts/adits. Those habitat features would be avoided during final trail route layout, further reducing the likelihood of effects for Townsend’s big-eared bats.

Cumulative Effects for Townsend’s Big-Eared Bat: The potential cumulative effects are similar to those described above for fringed bats.

Determination of Effects – Townsend’s Big-Eared Bat: It is my determination that the Proposed Action and Alternative 3 may impact individuals or habitat, but are not likely to result in a trend toward Federal listing of the Townsend’s big-eared bat. The project is not expected to interfere with maintaining viable well-distributed populations of this species.

Page 115

IV-1.4.12 - Pallid Bat (Antrozous pallidus) The pallid bat is a Forest Service Sensitive species, a CDFW Species of Special Concern, a BLM Sensitive species, and a Western Bat Working Group High priority species (indicating that it is imperiled or at high risk of imperilment).

Life History and Baseline Information: Pallid bats are found in a variety of habitats, including rocky canyons, open farmland, scattered desert scrub, grassland, shrubland, woodland, and mixed conifer forest. Pallid bats appear to be more prevalent within edges, open stands, particularly hardwoods, and open areas without trees. Pallid bats roost in rock crevices, mines, caves, tree hollows, and a variety of anthropogenic structures. Pallid bats frequently use buildings, bridges and culverts in California.

Pallid bats mate late October-February, but fertilization is delayed until April–June. Maternity colonies form in early April and may contain from 12 to 100 individuals. Maternity colonies form in rock crevices, buildings and in other man-made structures such as mine tunnels. In the southwestern , young are born May–June.

In the western United States, this species is thought to overwinter in the general vicinity of its summer range. The pallid bat is a year-round resident in California. Time of emergence from roost sites varies seasonally but typically occurs 30–60 minutes after sunset. Foraging is concentrated in two periods: 90-190 minutes after sunset and shortly before dawn.

Pallid bats primarily glean prey from the ground or surfaces of vegetation, but have also been observed to take prey in flight. Prey items include large insects such as scorpions, crickets, praying mantids, and moths. Pallid bat may hover or glide momentarily while foraging.

Declines were observed in the 1970s in Los Angeles, Orange, and San Diego Counties. At that time, only one of 12 roost sites documented in the 1940s were still occupied. These declines were attributed to 1) destruction of buildings, 2) eradication of bats roosting in public buildings in response to public health concerns, and 3) urban expansion (USFS 2006 Forest Plan Species Account). The threats to pallid bats are similar to those discussed above for Townsend’s big- eared bats.

Occurrence in the Analysis Area - Pallid Bat: Pallid bats have been detected at Holcomb Creek (SBNF records, 2014), Cushenbury Springs (Kielhold 1993) and in Cactus Flats (SBNF records 2013). It is likely to occur in the analysis area.

Potential Effects for Pallid Bat: The potential effects are similar to those described above for fringed bats and Townsend’s big-eared bats.

Cumulative Effects for Pallid Bat: The potential cumulative effects are similar to those described above for fringed bats.

Determination of Effects –Pallid Bat: It is my determination that the Proposed Action may impact individuals or habitat, but are not likely to result in a trend toward Federal listing of the

Page 116

pallid bat. The project is not expected to interfere with maintaining viable well-distributed populations of this species.

IV-1.5 – Sensitive Animals – No Action See the Part II-3.3 for a discussion of the potential effects of No Action alternative.

IV-2.0 – SUMMARY OF DETERMINATION OF EFFECTS FOR SENSITIVE SPECIES Table 10 contains a summary of the determinations of effects for Forest Service Sensitive species that may be affected by the Rattlesnake project.

Table 10. Summary of Determinations of Effects for Sensitive Species in the Analysis area Species Determination Viability Statement of Effects 1 Plants Abronia nana subsp. covillei MIIH No threat to viability from this project Astragalus bicristatus MIIH No threat to viability from this project Astragalus lentiginosus var. sierra MIIH No threat to viability from this project Boechera parishii MIIH No threat to viability from this project Boechera shockleyi MIIH No threat to viability from this project Calochortus palmeri var. palmeri MIIH No threat to viability from this project Castilleja plagiotoma MIIH No threat to viability from this project Dudleya abramsii subsp. affinis MIIH No threat to viability from this project Phlox dolicantha MIIH No threat to viability from this project Wildlife San Emigdio blue butterfly MIIH No threat to viability from this project Arrowhead Blue Butterfly MIIH No threat to viability from this project Ehrlich’s checkerspot butterfly MIIH No threat to viability from this project vernal blue butterfly (Coxey Meadow) MIIH No threat to viability from this project Large/yellow-blotched ensatina MIIH No threat to viability from this project California legless lizard MIIH No threat to viability from this project southern rubber boa MIIH No threat to viability from this project three-lined boa MIIH No threat to viability from this project San Bernardino ringneck snake MIIH No threat to viability from this project San Bernardino mountain kingsnake MIIH No threat to viability from this project Two-striped garter snake MIIH No threat to viability from this project Bald eagle NI No threat to viability from this project Willow flycatcher (migrant) MIIH No threat to viability from this project Gray vireo MIIH No threat to viability from this project Townsend’s big-eared bat MIIH No threat to viability from this project fringed myotis MIIH No threat to viability from this project pallid bat MIIH No threat to viability from this project 1 NI=No Impacts MI= May Impact Individuals and Habitat, But Not Likely to Lead Toward a Trend in Federal Listing

Page 117

PART V: WILDLIFE AND BOTANY REPORTS

V-1.0 – INTRODUCTION Part I of this document contains descriptions of the methods/evaluation process, Proposed Action, and habitat for this project. Part II addresses effects that are common many species addressed in this document.

This part, Part V, provides documentation about other species that have been identified as having viability concerns by the Forest Service or other entities (CDFW, USFWS, CNPS, Western Bat Working Group, Xerces Society, etc.).

V-2.0 - SBNF WATCH LIST SPECIES The Forest Plan contains strategies for achieving the desired conditions and goals. Strategy WL- 2 for management of species of concern provides guidance to “maintain and improve habitat for fish, wildlife, and plants, including those with the following designations: game species, harvest species, management indicator species, and watch list species” (USFS 2006 Forest Plan, pg. 129)

SBNF watch list species are those that the local biologists and botanists have expressed concern about viability either because of apparent downward trends, apparent changes in habitat availability, vulnerability of associated habitats, or very narrow or localized distributions. Because of limited knowledge and/or understanding of some species, it may not yet be known whether listing as Sensitive is warranted (the effort to gather such information is one of the purposes of the watch list).

Species accounts for most of the watch list species are contained in the Forest Plan, or for recent additions to the watch list, in the project record; references are included in those accounts and generally are not repeated here.

V-2.1 – Viability Of SBNF Watch list Plants – Proposed Action There are four SBNF watch list plant species known or likely to occur within the reach of direct and indirect effects of the Proposed Action.

All species listed in Table 11 were considered in this analysis and those that are known or likely to occur in the analysis area are indicated. It is possible that Watchlist and other limited/vulnerable plant occurrences are present but undetected/unmapped in the analysis area. See the Forest Plan for complete species accounts with citations. Figure 7 displays the known Watchlist plant occurrences.

Direct and indirect effects to Watchlist plants from the Proposed Action are described below. The earlier discussions in Part II-3.2 also applies to Watchlist plants known to occur as well as any that have a likelihood of occurring but were undetected during surveys.

Page 118

Table 11. San Bernardino National Forest Watch Plant Species in/near the Project Area Species Name Common Name Occurrence Information* Occurs In/Near Mountaintop Front San Analysis Area* District Country Jacinto District District Allium parishii Parish’s onion Y P Androsace elongata subsp. acuta California androsace P P Y Astragalus leucolobus Bear Valley woollypod Y Y Y Berberis fremontii Fremont barberry Boechera dispar pinyon rock-cress Y Y Boechera lincolnensis Lincoln rockcress Boykenia rotundifolia round-leaved boykenia Y Y Y Calochortus plummerae Plummer’s mariposa lily X X X Chaenactis parishii Parish’s chaenactis Y Chorizanthe polygonoides var. longispina long-spined spineflower X Corydylanthyus eremicus subsp. eremicus desert bird’s beak Y Cymopterus multinervatus purple-nerve cymopterus P Erigeron breweri var. jacinteus San Jacinto Mts. daisy P Eriogonum microthecum var. corymbosoides San Bernardino Mountains Y Y buckwheat Eriogonum umbellatum var. minus alpine sulphur-flowered buckwheat Y Eriophyllum lanatum var. obovatum southern Sierra woolly sunflower Y Y Frasera neglecta pine-green gentian Y Galium angustifolium subsp. gabrielense San Antonio Canyon bedstraw P Galium jepsonii Jepson’s bedstraw P Galium johnstonii Johnston’s bedstraw Y Y Y Hulsea vestita subsp. callicarpha beautiful hulsea Y Hulsea vestita subsp. parryi Parry’s sunflower Y Y Juglans californica southern California black walnut Y Y Juncus duranii Duran’s rush Y Layia ziegleri Ziegler’s aster Y Lepidium virginicum var. robinsonii Robinson’s peppergrass P P Linanthus maculatus Little San Bernardino Mountains gilia P P Lilium humboldtii var. ocellatum ocellated Humboldt lily Y Y P

Table 11. San Bernardino National Forest Watch Plant Species in/near the Project Area Species Name Common Name Occurrence Information* Occurs In/Near Mountaintop Front San Analysis Area* District Country Jacinto District District Meesia triquetra three-ranked humpmoss P P X Monardella australis subsp. cinerea Gray monardella Y P californica California muhly grass Y coronata Crowned muilla P Packera ionophylla Tehachapi ragwort Y Y Perideridida parishii subsp. parishii Parish’s yampah Y Phacelia exilis Transverse Range phacelia X Phacelia mohavensis Mojave phacelia Y P Piperia leptopetala Narrow-petaled rein orchid Y Y Podistera nevadensis Sierra podistera Y Poliomintha incana frosted mint Rupertia rigida Parish’s California tea Y P P Y Syntrichopappus lemmonii Lemmon’s syntrichopappus Y P Y Y Streptanthus bernardinus Laguna mountains jewel-flower Y pinetorum subsp. grisea Grey-leaved violet H P Viola aurea golden violet P P *Occurrence Information: Y = Species is known to occur. P = Occurrence of the species is possible; suitable habitat exists, and the species is known from nearby locations. U = Occurrence of the species is unlikely based on habitat present. H = Part of the historical range but the species has likely been extirpated. N = Outside known distribution/range of the species.

Page 120

V-2.1.1 Pinyon Rock-Cress (Boechera dispar) Natureserve ranks this species as G3 (Globally Vulnerable), S2 (Imperiled) in California, and S1 (Critically Imperiled) in Nevada.

This perennial herb in the mustard family (Brassicaceae) occurs in southeast California from the White Mountains south through the Panamint and Argus mountains to the San Bernardino and Little San Bernardino Mountains; disjunct in Nevada in Mineral County (Huntoon Mountains) and southern Nye County (Eleana Range).

Boechera dispar is typically found on rocky to loose gravelly slopes, often with quartzite. It is associated with pinyon/juniper woodland to desert-transition chaparral.

Within the Rattlesnake Mountain OHV Trails project area, this species is reported to occur in four small isolated occurrences in/near Dawn O’Day Canyon, from near Coxey Road (3N14) almost to the top of the watershed near South Peak. No trail designations are proposed in/adjacent to these occurrences. To the extent successful, proposed restoration would improve habitat conditions for the species.

V-2.1.2 San Bernardino Mountains Wild Buckwheat (Eriogonum microthecum var. corymbosoides) Natureserve ranks this taxon as G5T3 (a vulnerable infra-specific taxon within an otherwise secure species). The California Native Plant Society considers the taxon too common to list. It is on the SBNF watch list.

This taxon is endemic to the Transverse Ranges (San Bernardino Mountains and eastern San Gabriel Mountains), and is strongly associated with carbonate soils. Populations are widely scattered across the range, but individual plants can be abundant with these populations. Eriogonum microthecum var. corymbosoides is a perennial, semi-deciduous sub-shrub that blooms July-September.

Occurrences are generally found on dry, open slopes and are sometimes associated with localized ground disturbance such as road and trail margins, mining claims assessment work, historic diggings, etc. This indicates a low to moderate tolerance to light to moderate chronic ground disturbance and a moderate resilience following more severe disturbance. It exhibited vigorous resilience following the Butler 2 Fire. The distribution of this species on the San Bernardino National Forest is fairly well known, and its population status and trends apparently stable except for habitat losses associated with limestone mining. (Source: USFS 2006 Forest Plan Species Account)

This taxon occurs on carbonate soils in the area of White Mountain and South Peak. No trail designations are proposed in/adjacent to these occurrences. To the extent successful, proposed restoration would improve habitat conditions for the species.

V-2.1.3 Rupertia rigida (Parish’s California Tea) This species ranges from the San Bernardino Mountains (the northernmost station of the species’ distribution) widely scattered southward down the Peninsular Ranges (San Jacinto, Cuyamaca,

Laguna) into the mountains of Baja California. In the San Bernardino Mountains, the species occurs in Bear Valley, Holcomb Valley and the Upper Santa Ana watershed (e.g., Barton Flats, South Fork). It occurs on dry, open to partially shaded, sandy soils, and from flats to gentle slopes. The species is occasionally found roadside, indicating some tolerance for disturbance.

Within the project are, this species is recorded along Coxey Road (3N14), near Chukar Spring, and along Wright Mine Road (3N11) north of Big Pine Flat, near 3N92. No trail designations are proposed in/adjacent to these occurrences. To the extent successful, proposed restoration would improve habitat conditions for the species.

V-2.1.4 Syntrichopappus lemmonii (Lemmon’s syntrichopappus) This annual member of the daisy family is endemic to Southern California, mainly occurring along the northern slopes of the San Bernardino and San Gabriel Mountians. Natureserve ranks this species G3 and S3 (vulnerable) globally and within California. It occurs in pinyon-juniper woodland, and desert transition chaparral, typically on loose sandy soils derived from granite.

Within the project area, this species is recorded from Little Pine Flat, Coxey Meadow, Coyote Flat, and the western flanks of Rattlesnake Mountain. All of the proposed route designations under the Proposed Action except the Redonda Ridge Trail extension north of Big Pine Flat pass through this species’’ occupied habitat. These linear features, however, represent a small fraction of the total recorded habitat in the area. And to the extent successful, proposed restoration would improve habitat conditions for the species more broadly.

V-2.2 - Summary of Effects to Watchlist Plants– Proposed Action The primary effects of the Proposed Action on watch list plant species and general vegetation are small-scale habitat loss through trail construction and maintenance, short-term adverse effects of restoration, and long-term beneficial effects of restoration. Indirect effects may include the effects of dust, weeds, and hydrology, and would be expected to be localized and minimized through application of design features.

V-2.3 – SBNF Watchlist and Other Rare Plants – No Action Under the No Action Alternative, no changes to the baseline conditions for Watchlist plants in the area would be expected. The discussion in Part II-3.3 is applicable for all Watchlist plant species that occur in the analysis area.

V-2.4 – SBNF Watchlist and Other Rare Plants – Alternative 3 Alternative 3 is the same as the Proposed Action with the addition of mixed use of vehicle types (street legal and non-street legal) on 3N14 between Big Pine Flats and 4N16A (the road to Horse Springs Campground). The effects of Alternative 3 on SBNF Watchlist or other rare plants would be the same as the effects described above for the Proposed Action.

V-2.5 – Viability of SBNF Watchlist Animals – Proposed Action There are a number of Watchlist animals known or expected to occur in the analysis area. Table 12 contains the current Watchlist animals for the SBNF and occurrence probability in the analysis area for each species. The potential effects to Watchlist species that are known to occur

Page 122

Table 12. San Bernardino National Forest Watchlist Animals in the Rattlesnake Analysis Area Common Name Latin Name District Habitat 2 OCCURS IN/ NEAR Record 1 ANALYSIS AREA 1 Springsnails Pyruglopsis sp. Y aq – seeps and springs P simple hydroporus diving beetle Hydroporus simplex Y aq U greenest tiger beetle Cicindela tranquebarica P r, w U viridissima- Dorhn’s elegant eucnemid beetle Palaeoxenus dorhni Y mc P bicolored rainbeetle bicolor Y mc, wo (oaks) P California diplectronan caddisfly Diplectrona californica N Aq (rapid portions of small, cool N streams) desert monkey grasshopper Psychomastax deserticola Y d, wo (pj) P San Bernardino Mountains silk Coloradia velda Y wo (pj), mc Y (records for Coxey Meadow) moth August checkerspot butterfly Euphydryas editha augustina Y mc P Andrew's marble butterfly andrewsi Y m, r; Host plants are in mustard family P – host plants are present (Thelypodium stenopetalum; Arabis holboelii var. pinetorum; Streptanthus bernardinus) partially armored threespine Gasterosteus aculeatus Y aq Y (Coxey Pond/Creek) stickleback microcephalus Monterey ensatina salamander Ensatina eschscholtzii eschscholtzii Y wo (oaks), mc, r P in drainages arboreal salamander Aneides lugubris N wo (oaks), c, r; foothills N – out of known distribution garden slender salamander Batrachoseps major N r, wo, g, meadow, c N – out of known distribution western spadefoot toad Spea hamondii N w, r N – out of known distribution Red spotted toad Anaxyrus punctatus Y d, r (streams, pools, cattle tanks, N – out of known distribution springs), rk common chuckwalla Sauromalus obesus Y d, wo (pj) P Zebra-tail lizard Callisaurus draconiodes Y d, sandy washes P rhodostictus Mojave black-collared lizard Crotaphytus bicinctores Y d P granite night lizard Xantusia henshawi N rk N – out of known distribution Desert night lizard Xantusia vigilis Y d P Coronado skink Plestiodon skiltonianus Y c, wo, r, mc – sea level to 1675 meters Y interparietalis coast patch-nosed snake Salvadora hexalepis virgultea L c, d, w, rk, coastal sage, alluvial fan Y (Coxey meadow record for scrub western patch-nosed snake – no subspecies noted) mountain garter snake Thamnophis elegans elegans Y m, r P

Page 123

Table 12. San Bernardino National Forest Watchlist Animals in the Rattlesnake Analysis Area Common Name Latin Name District Habitat 2 OCCURS IN/ NEAR Record 1 ANALYSIS AREA 1 southwestern speckled Crotalus mitchellii pyrrhus Y c, wo, d, rk P rattlesnake western least bittern Ixobrychus exilis hesperis L aq N – habitat not present turkey vulture (breeding) Cathartes aura Y a, g, c, wo, d, rk P Osprey Pandion haliaetus Y aq, r Y white-tailed kite Elanus leucurus Y r, wo Y @ Coxey Meadow northern harrier Circus cyaneus Y g, m Y @ Coxey Meadow sharp-shinned hawk (breeding) Accipiter striatus Y r, mc P Cooper's hawk (breeding) Accipiter cooperii Y r, mc P zone-tailed hawk Buteo albonotatus Y mc, wo (pj) U ferruginous hawk Buteo regalis Y g, d P golden eagle Aquila chrysaetos Y g, d, wo (pj, oak) Y (nesting on North Slope; foraging in analysis area) Merlin Falco columbarius Y g, mc Y American peregrine falcon Falco peregrinus anatus Y cliffs for nests; aq for hunting P prairie falcon Falco mexicanus Y g, d Y (Records from Cushenbury Springs; Burnt Flat, Breeding @Deep Canyon, Dry Canyon, Crystal Creek) flammulated owl Otus flammeolus Y mc P western screech owl Otus kennicottii Y r, mc, wo P northern pygmy owl Glaucidium gnoma Y r, mc, wo P burrowing owl Athene cunicularia hypogaeae P d N long-eared owl Asio otus Y r, mc P northern saw-whet owl Aegolius acadicus Y wo, mc, pine Y @ upper Coxey Creek common nighthawk Chordeiles minor Y a, pine, mc Y Mexican whip-poor-will Caprimulgus arizonae Y wo, mc P black swift Cypseloides niger Y a, r (waterfalls) P calliope hummingbird Stellula calliope Y r P Lewis' woodpecker Melanerpes lewis Y wo (oak), r U

Williamson's sapsucker Sphyrapicus thyroideus Y mc P Nuttall's woodpecker Picoides nuttallii Y r, c, wo, mc P white-headed woodpecker Picoides albolarvatus Y mc P gray flycatcher Empidonax wrightii Y wo (pj), c Y @ North Slope loggerhead shrike Lanius ludovicianus Y c, wo, r, d, mc Y @ North Slope

Page 124

Table 12. San Bernardino National Forest Watchlist Animals in the Rattlesnake Analysis Area Common Name Latin Name District Habitat 2 OCCURS IN/ NEAR Record 1 ANALYSIS AREA 1 plumbeous vireo Vireo plumbeus Y wo (pj), mc Y @ North Slope Cassin’s vireo Vireo cassinii Y mc, wo (oak), r Y @ North Slope warbling vireo Vireo gilvus Y r, wo, mc Y @ North Slope pinyon jay Gymnorhinus cyanocephalus Y wo (pj), mc Y California horned lark (breeding) Eremophila alpestris actia Y g, d Y purple martin Progne subis Y a, r, mc, wo U tree swallow Tachycineta bicolor Y a, r, wo, mc P American dipper Cinclus mexicanus Y streams N – no perennial streams Swainson's thrush Catharus ustulatus Y r, mc P hermit thrush (breeding) Catharus guttatus Y pine, mc P Bendire's thrasher Toxostoma bendirei Y c, wo, r, d U LeConte's thrasher Toxostoma lecontei Y d U American pipit (breeding) Anthus rubescens Y alpine, talus & sand slopes U Virginia’s warbler (breeding) Vermivora virginiae Y wo (pj), c P yellow warbler Dendroica petechia brewsteri Y mc, wo, r P MacGillivray's warbler Oporornis tolmiei Y r. m P common yellowthroat Geothlypis trichas Y r U Wilson's warbler Wilsonia pusilla Y r P yellow-breasted chat Icteria virens P r U hepatic tanager Piranga flava Y wo U summer tanager Piranga rubra Y r U southern California rufous- Aimophila ruficeps canescens Y c U crowned sparrow Black-chinned sparrow Spizella atrogularis Y c, wo, d Y @ N. Slope sites Bell's sparrow Artemisiospiza belli Y c U Lincoln's sparrow Melospiza lincolnii Y r, mc, wo P tri-colored blackbird Agelaius tricolor Y r, m U Lawrence's goldfinch Carduelis lawrencei Y r, c Y @ Coxey Meadow western small-footed myotis Myotis ciliolabrum Y wo, r, mc; roosts in cliffs, talus, rocks, Y (N slope wind study area) mines, burrows, cavities, under bark, bridges, buildings long-eared myotis Myotis evotis Y c, wo, mc; roosts in buildings, tree Y(N. slope wind study area) cavities, under bark, bridges, caves, mines, cliffs little brown myotis Myotis lucifugus Y c, m, g, wo; roosts in buildings, trees, Y (N. slope wind study area) under rocks/wood, caves, mines Page 125

Table 12. San Bernardino National Forest Watchlist Animals in the Rattlesnake Analysis Area Common Name Latin Name District Habitat 2 OCCURS IN/ NEAR Record 1 ANALYSIS AREA 1 long-legged myotis Myotis volans Y wo, mc, c; roosts in rock crevices, Y (known from N. Slope areas) buildings, under bark, snags, mines, caves. Yuma myotis Myotis yumanensis Y d, wo; roosts in buildings, mines, Y (known from N. Slope areas) caves, crevices, under bridges spotted bat Euderma maculatum Y d, rk; preferred roost is cliffs/rock Y (known from N. Slope areas) crevices, caves, buildings. pocketed free-tailed bat Nyctinomops femerosaccus L wo (pj), d; roost in cliffs/rock crevices Y (known from N. Slope areas) western bonneted bat Eumops perotis californicus Y mc, wo, c, g, d, u; roosts in cliff faces, Y (known from N. Slope areas) tall buildings, trees, tunnels San Diego black-tailed Lepus californicus bennettii N c, wo N – outside known distribution jackrabbit lodgepole chipmunk Tamias speciosus speciosus Y mc P golden-mantled ground squirrel Spermophilus lateralis bernardinus Y mc, rk P San Diego pocket mouse Chaetodipus fallax fallax Y d, c P southern grasshopper mouse Onychomys torridus ramona Y d, c P San Diego desert woodrat Neotoma lepida intermedia Y d, c, rk Y Porcupine Erethizon dorsatum Y mc, wo P Ringtail Bassariscus astutus Y mc, wo, rk, r Y American badger Taxidea taxus Y wo, mc, c, d, g Y @ Coxey Creek western spotted skunk Spilogale gracilis Y mc, wo, r, c P mountain lion Felis concolor Y mc, wo, c, d Y Nelson's bighorn sheep Ovis canadensis nelsoni Y c, d, rk, wo (pj), mc Y 1 Occurrence Information: 2HABITAT TYPES/HABITAT mc = mixed conifer forests; Jeffrey pine, ponderosa Y = Species is known to occur. COMPONENTS pine, bigcone Douglas fir, coulter pine, sugar pine, P = Occurrence of the species is possible; suitable a = aerial; usually seen in flight, often over white fir overstory habitat exists, and/or the species is known from nearby several habitat types d = desert; Joshua tree woodlands, creosote bush locations. r = riparian (streamside thickets and scrub, blackbrush scrub B = Species is known or likely to nest in the area. woodlands) aq = aquatic; lakes, reservoirs, ponds, vernal M = The species uses the area during migration as a g = grasslands, fields, and agricultural pools/puddles stopover. areas u = urbanized areas H = Part of the historical range but the species has m = marshes, meadows; both freshwater w = washes and alluvial fans been extirpated. areas and moist meadows rk = cliffs and rocky outcrops U = Occurrence of the species is unlikely based on c = chaparral and coastal sage scrub s = snags and cavities habitat present. wo = woodlands; pinyon-juniper, oaks N = Outside known distribution/range of the species.

Page 126

and those that have a high probability of occurring in the analysis area are discussed in detail. In addition to Watchlist animals, several other species of concern for the area are addressed in this section.

See the existing environment described in Part II-2.0 and the effects analyses applicable to common and special status species in Part II-3.2 The following species and site-specific evaluations tier to Part II-3.2

V-2.5.1 –Invertebrate SBNF Watchlist Species There are seven Watchlist invertebrates that are known from or have potential to occur in the analysis area: springsnails, Dorhn’s elegant eucnemid beetle, bicolored rainbeetle, desert monkey grasshopper, and San Bernardino Mountains silk moth, August checkerspot, Andrew’s marble butterfly.

V-2.5.1.1 -Springsnails (Pyruglopsis sp.) Springsnails are a SBNF Watchlist species. Springsnails are a diverse group of freshwater gastropods. Many of the species in this genus are at risk of extinction. There is a very high rate of endemism with many of the ~120 species occurring in isolated springs and seeps (Hurt 2004).

No surveys for springsnails have been conducted on the SBNF. There is a high probability that there are endemic springsnails in many of the springs and seeps in the San Bernardino Mountains. Suitable habitat for springsnails (Pyruglopsis sp.) likely exists in the springs and seeps. See Part II-3.2.7 for a discussion of the potential effects to riparian zones, including suitable habitat for this species, as a result of the proposed project.

V-2.5.1.2 Dorhn’s Elegant Eucnemid Beetle (Palaeoxus dorhni) The Dorhn’s elegant eucnemid beetle is a SBNF Watchlist species. All known occurrences of this species are found on National Forest System lands. Dorhn's elegant eucnemid beetle is a rare species that has been reported from Mt. Wilson and Cedar Creek Canyon near Crystal Lake in Los Angeles County; Dark Canyon and Idyllwild in Riverside County; and Slover Canyon, Cleghorn Canyon, and Crestline in San Bernardino County.

Dorhn's elegant eucnemid beetle is found on dead pine and incense cedar (Calocedrus decurrens) trees or stumps close to the ground. The habitat appears to be on steep slopes at elevations of 5,085 to 5,750 feet in a mix of ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa), sugar pine (P. lambertiana), and incense cedar. There is little information on the reproductive biology of this species. Females deposit eggs in an unknown location, but most likely in the soil at the base of a dead stump or snag, or in bark. After eclosion (hatching from the egg), the larvae bore into a cedar or pine stump. Both larvae and adults of Dorhn's elegant eucnemid beetle are found under the bark of pines and incense cedars. Larvae feed on rotted wood, and adults are predatory. Removal of pine or cedar snags or stumps and catastrophic wildfire could potentially have adverse effects on habitat for this species. (Source: USFS 2006 Species Account)

Suitable habitat for this species occurs in the analysis area. Individual beetles may be killed or injured as a result of the trail network although the Proposed Action may reduce this risk by reducing the number of user-created trails bisecting the habitat. Page 127

V-2.5.1.3 Bicolored (Pleocoma bicolor) The bicolored rain beetle is a SBNF Watchlist species. Bicolored rain beetle is endemic to a small region of the San Bernardino Mountains. The known range of this beetle is restricted to an area extending from Rim of the World Drive (Highway 18) near the Crestline cutoff through Crestline, Bluejay, and Arrowhead City to the north shore of Lake Arrowhead at elevations of 4,400–5,184 feet. The bicolored rain beetle occurs in yellow pine forest, mixed pine-black oak- canyon oak forest, and canyon oak stands within its current known range. Bicolored rain beetle larvae feed on the roots and rootlets of various vegetation types including hardwoods, shrubs, and grasses. Adults do not feed and, in fact, are not capable of feeding. Adults have fused mouthparts and non-functional digestive systems.

The mating season of the bicolored rain beetle begins in early winter and extends into spring. Males begin mating flights in early winter, in association with rainfall, and fly from dusk to dawn in search of pheromone-producing, flightless females. Later in the season, and extending into spring, males will fly at dusk and dawn over melting snow. Males have been observed flying in precipitation events, in air temperatures below freezing. The female bicolored rain beetle waits at the entrance of her burrow until a male arrives. Once mated, the female will move back down into her burrow. Females may mate more than once. Oviposition occurs in the spring, and, once completed, the female bicolored rain beetle dies.

The population of bicolored rain beetle has apparently declined and has likely been extirpated from a significant portion of its historical range. (Source: USFS 2006 Species Account)

Although the analysis area is outside the known distribution for this species, much of the San Bernardino Mountains has not been surveyed for it and its distribution may be greater than currently known. Suitable habitat for this species occurs in the analysis area. Under the Proposed Action, it is not expected that additional habitat would be lost. Individual rain beetles may be killed or injured as a result of the trail network although the Proposed Action may reduce this risk by reducing the number of user-created trails bisecting the habitat.

V-2.5.1.4 Desert Monkey Grasshopper (Psychomastax deserticola) Desert monkey grasshopper is a Federal Species of Concern (formerly known as USFWS Candidate species), a SBNF Watchlist species, and a State Special Status Animal (S1.2: Threatened). Desert monkey grasshopper is known only from Cushenbury Canyon on the northern edge of the San Bernardino Mountains. The type locality for desert monkey grasshopper is Cushenbury Ranch, which is about one mile north of National Forest System lands boundary. The area is now known as Cushenbury Springs. The species is also reported from Cactus Flat on the SBNF. The elevation range appears to be between 4,000 feet (Cushenbury Springs) and 6,000 feet (Cactus Flat).

The desert monkey grasshopper is described as occurring in arid environments, and chamise (Adenostoma fasciculatum) has been identified as a possible food plant. The vegetation at Cactus Flat and Cushenbury Canyon is primarily pinyon/juniper woodland with Joshua tree subdominants transitioning down into blackbrush scrub. Common plant species include antelope bush (Purshia tridentata), Mormon tea (Ephedra nevedensis), desert apricot (Prunus fremontii), Page 128

Mohave yucca (Yucca schidigera), Coleogyne ramosissima, Nolina biglovii, and Tucker's oak (Quercus john-tuckeri). No chamise is present anywhere on the desert side of the mountains. The closest chamise is found in the cismontane chaparral on the south slopes of the San Bernardino Mountains. There is either a misidentification of the host or the location is incorrect; misidentification is most likely.

Adults have been reportedly collected from only one plant, chamise, which is its suspected food plant. As noted above, chamise was probably misidentified, and the adult food plant is more likely to be creosote bush or antelope bush. Further investigation is required to resolve this discrepancy. Most likely, the correct host plant was antelope bush (Purshia tridentata) or blackbrush (Coleogyne ramosissimsa).

There is no information on the early life stages or typical periods of activity of desert monkey grasshopper or on typical periods of activity. Adults have been collected between August 22 and 31. (Source: USFS 2006 Forest Plan species accounts)

Desert monkey grasshoppers are known from the Cushenbury Springs and Cactus Flats areas which have similar habitat to the project area. There may be some individuals lost during the regular recreation use of the trail network. However, many user-created trails would be restored which would create large blocks of uninterrupted habitat presumably resulting in fewer losses than the existing condition.

V-2.5.1.5 San Bernardino Mountains Silk Moth (Coloradia velda) San Bernardino Mountains silk moth has been identified by the Forest Service as a species with a local viability concern (Stephenson and Calcarone 1999) and is a SBNF Watchlist species. The type locality for San Bernardino Mountains silk moth, also known as the velda pinemoth, is at Coxey Meadow at elevations of 5,600 feet on the north side of the San Bernardino Mountains. The species has also been collected at elevations of 5,600–6,400 feet at Horse Springs, Crab Flat, Cactus Flat, and Barton Flats.

San Bernardino Mountains silk moth is most commonly found in stands of pinyon pine (Pinus monophylla), the larval host plant, above elevations of 4,593 feet. It has also been collected in Jeffrey pine (Pinus jeffreyi), although in much smaller numbers. Larvae feed primarily on the leaves of the pinyon pine, although larvae above the first instar have also been collected on, and presumably eat, Jeffrey pine. Adults do not feed.

Adult moths emerge from the pupal case between 9:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. The remainder of the day is spent inflating their wings in preparation for flight that night. Females attract males through the use of pheromones that they emit when it becomes dark. Like many species in the family Saturniidae, females remain in one place while the male homes in on her pheromone signal. The flight period lasts from June to the end of July.

This species is known from Coxey Meadow near the analysis area. It has a high likelihood of occurring in the analysis area. There may be some individuals lost during reroutes and regular trail use although the Proposed Action would be beneficial to the species by reducing the number of user-created trails that bisect habitat. Page 129

V-2.5.1.6 Andrew’s Marble Butterfly (Euchloe hyanitis andrewsi): Andrew's marble butterfly is a subspecies of the widely distributed California marble butterfly. It is a SBNF Watchlist species and a State Special Status Animal (S1: Fewer than six occurrences, 1000 individuals, or 2000 acres). It is a federal species of concern (previously USFWS Candidate species). Andrew’s marble butterfly is endemic to the San Bernardino Mountains. It is found at elevations of 5,000 to 7,000 feet near Lake Arrowhead and Big Bear Lake and in other locations across the crest and the North Slope. Records include Baldwin Lake, Sugarloaf Mountain, and Wild Horse Meadow. Forty to eighty percent of known occurrences are estimated to be located on the SBNF.

Andrew's marble butterfly is found primarily in pine and mixed conifer forests. All of the larval host plants for this species are members of the mustard family. The hosts are found in different habitat types: Thelypodium stenopetalum is found in wet meadows; Boechera reflexa (formerly treated as Arabis holboelii var. pinetorum) is found in dry openings in conifer and mixed conifer forests; and Streptanthus bernardinus is found in openings in chaparral and various conifer forest types, often in disturbed areas, as well as in shaded or mesic sites near springs and seeps. Because of this, it appears that this butterfly species focuses on plant type (mustard family) rather than habitat type. Streptanthus bernardinus and Thelypodium stenopetalum are the main larval food plants. Boechera reflexa is used, but probably to a lesser extent. The larvae also eat seedpods of the mountain tansy mustard (Descurainia richardsonii). (Source: USFS 2006 Forest Plan species accounts). Members of the mustard family that may be host plants occur in the analysis area.

Andrew’s marble butterfly may occur in the analysis area wherever host plants are present. Individual marble butterflies may be killed or injured as a result of the trail network although the Proposed Action may reduce this risk by reducing the number of user-created trails bisecting the habitat.

V-2.5.2 – SBNF Watchlist Amphibians One Watchlist amphibian has the potential to occur in the analysis area.

V-2.5.2.1 Monterey Ensatina (Ensatina eschscholtzii eschscholtzii) Monterey ensatina has been identified by the Forest Service as a species of local viability concern (Stephenson and Calcarone 1999) and is a SBNF Watchlist species.

Ensatina is a geographically and genetically variable taxon that has traditionally been treated as a single species with seven recognized subspecies, including both blotched and unblotched color forms. Three subspecies of Ensatina occur in the mountains of southern California, and their evolutionary relationships and taxonomic status have received considerable scientific attention.

There is a “hybrid swarm” for Ensatina in the San Bernardino Mountains where Monterey, yellow-blotched, and large-blotched ensatina hybridize. The genetics for these three species is yet to be resolved (Stebbins and McGinnis 2012).

Page 130

Monterey salamanders are most common in oak woodlands with extensive leaf litter and downed wood; however, they occupy a wide variety of other habitats as well. They have been found at elevations above 6,100 feet.

Colonies of Ensatina salamanders seem best developed in marginal belts between dense and sparse vegetation-that is, in "edge" situations. Downed logs, leaf litter, and woody debris appear to be important habitat elements. Populations of Ensatinas in drier regions of southern California primarily occur on north-facing slopes of deep canyons and in other microhabitats that provide cool, moist conditions. Ensatinas are frequently found near streams where soils are relatively moist, or in shaded, moist habitats where there is good canopy cover.

The species is nocturnal and difficult to see near the surface, so it could be more widespread than current data suggest. Juveniles and adults are most active when the ground is wet and temperatures are moderate. Ensatina remain underground throughout the dry summer in most areas of their range and can tolerate substantial dehydration. During dry weather, they tend to frequent holes in the ground such as rodent burrows, rotted-out root channels, and openings among rocks. Except in areas where severe winter weather occurs, Ensatina emerge with the first rains of autumn and are active on the ground through spring. Surface activity is highest immediately following rains and continues while temperature and moisture conditions are favorable. Ensatina are commonly found in areas with considerable leaf litter. This litter serves as an insulating blanket to help conserve moisture and to buffer temperature fluctuations.

Insects, spiders, crustaceans, and earthworms that occur in and beneath the leaf litter serve as food for these salamanders. Most feeding occurs above ground when the surface is damp and temperatures are not too high. (Source: USFS 2006 Forest Plan)

Monterey ensatinas are known from the North Slope north near Lake Silverwood (Goodward pers. comm. 2013). While not known from the project vicinity, the analysis area is within the known distribution (http://www.californiaherps.com/salamanders/pages/e.e.eschscholtzii. html) and the large/yellow blotched subspecies of ensatina is known from the North Slope (suggesting that suitable habitat exists).

They are unlikely to occur within the footprint of the trail network due to careful rerouting efforts but they may occur in the springs or damp drainages in the analysis area. See the large/yellow-blotched ensatinas in the Sensitive species section in PART IV of this document for a discussion of potential effects.

V-2.5.3 – SBNF Watchlist Reptiles There are seven Watchlist reptiles that are known to occur in the analysis area or have the potential due to suitable habitat being present: common chuckwalla, Zebra-tail lizard, Mojave black-collared lizard, granite night lizard, Desert night lizard, coast patch-nosed snake, and mountain garter snake. The effects for Watchlist reptiles are similar and discussed together after the life history and occurrence information for each species.

Page 131

V-2.5.3.1 Common Chuckwalla (Sauromalus ater) The common chuckwalla is a SBNF Watchlist species. The common chuckwalla is a large, flat- bodied lizard with a rounded belly and blunt-tipped wide tail. Chuckwallas are found from sea level to 4600 feet. Creosote bush is the primary vegetation associated with their rock piles. They are found in a variety of desert woodland and scrub habitats but are most frequently associated with, and reach their highest densities, in creosote communities. It is restricted to areas with large rocks, boulder piles, or large rock outcrops on slopes. It is diurnal and lives in in rock crevices and under rocks. Chuckwallas also use rock outcrops and boulders for basking.

Chuckwallas are most active spring through fall. They retreat to deep rock crevices and become inactive during extreme cold and hot periods. When disturbed, a chuckwalla will retreat into a rock crevice, inflating its body with air and using its strong claws and rough skin to tightly wedge itself into the crevice to make extraction difficult. The chuckwalla is herbivorous, feeding on flowers, fruits and leaves of creosote and, to a lesser extent, on other perennials and annuals. They do not require water. They breed between April and June, laying 6-13 eggs in sandy, friable well-drained soil. (Sources: http://www.californiaherps.com/; http://www.dfg.ca.gov/ biogeodata/cwhr).

Chuckwallas are known from the North Slope area. While the higher elevation trail areas are not likely to be occupied by this species, the lower portions of the network and associated facilities in desert and desert transition zones are likely occupied.

V-2.5.3.2 Western Zebra-Tailed Lizard (Callisaurus draconoides rhodostictusis) The western zebra-tailed lizard is a SBNF Watchlist species. The western zebra-tailed lizard is a pale thin lizard with long legs and a long flat tail and can run extremely fast. It is found in the Mojave and Colorado deserts up to the desert slopes of the Transverse and Peninsular mountain ranges up to 5000 feet. They frequent sandy and gravelly desert flats, washes and alluvial plains in a variety of desert woodland and scrub habitats. They occasionally occur in rocky areas, but seem to prefer flats dominated by scrub vegetation. They are opportunistic carnivores that wait for prey to get close. These lizards eat insects, insect larvae, spiders, lizards, shed lizard skin, and leaves and flowers. Zebra-tailed lizards lay eggs in sandy soils in June and may have as many as five clutches/year in years with greater than average rainfall. They burrow into sand for the night and usually seek daytime shelter in the shade of bushes.

This lizard is diurnal, rising early, usually before other species and remaining active throughout the day in all but the hottest weather. During the hottest times of day, lizards may stand alternately on two legs in the shade of bushes or climb into the bushes to avoid the heat of the substrate. This species is one of the first to emerge in the spring and remains active through the summer. They are active from February through October but spend most of their waking hours sedentary. (Sources: http://www.californiaherps.com; http://www.dfg.ca.gov/biogeodata/cwhr; Jones and Lovich 2009).

Zebra-tailed lizards are known from the North Slope north of Deep Creek (NRIS record) and at Omya’s White Knob project site (Lilburn 2013). While the higher elevation trail areas are not likely to be occupied by this species, the lower portions of the network in desert transition zones are likely occupied. Page 132

V-2.5.3.3 Mojave Black-Collared Lizard (Crotaphytus bicinctores) The black-collared lizard is a SBNF Watchlist species. The Mojave black-collared lizard is a large lizard with a broad head and narrow neck marked by a pair of distinctive black bands. It is generally restricted to areas with rocky substrates, slopes, gullies, washes, canyons, and sometimes rock piles, although occasionally can be found up to a mile from extensive rocky habitat. It is most common in desert succulent shrub, desert scrub, and desert wash habitats. The Mojave black-collared lizard occupies slopes, rock outcrops, gullies, washes and other areas with small vertical perches. It often sits on rock perches and watches for prey, predators, or perhaps conspecifics. This lizard is active in the spring and summer and to a lesser extent in the early fall. It hibernates in winter.

Collared lizards retreat to holes, burrows, and rocky crevices for shelter. They forage on the ground, usually near rock piles, eating insects, spiders, small lizards and snakes, and leaves and flowers. This species prefers rocky areas and seeks cover under rocks and in cracks and crevices and rodent holes, occasionally bounding bi-pedally from stone to stone when disturbed. This diurnal collared lizard is very tolerant of extreme heat. The species lays eggs and presumably constructs its own nest but there are no reports. Friable, well-drained soil is probably required for nesting. (Sources: http://www.californiaherps.com; http://www.dfg.ca.gov/biogeodata/cwhr).

Collared lizards are known from the North Slope area. While the higher elevation trail areas are not likely to be occupied by this species, the lower portions of the network in desert transition zones are likely occupied.

V-2.5.3.4 Desert Night Lizard (Xantusia vigilis) The desert night lizard is a SBNF Watchlist species. The desert night lizard is a small thin lizard with soft skin and fine scales. It is found throughout the Mojave Desert. Desert night lizards are most common in Joshua tree and desert scrub habitats. They are secretive and spend most of their time under yucca logs and other cover. They are found between 990 and 6800 feet in elevation. They eat small invertebrates (ants, termites, beetles, caterpillars, crickets, spiders, etc.) inhabiting decaying vegetation. These lizards probably do not require water. These diurnal lizards breed in late spring. The young are borne live in August to October with 1-3 young/brood. (Sources: http://www.californiaherps.com; http://www.dfg.ca.gov/biogeodata/cwhr).

This species is known from Cushenbury Springs (Kielhold 1993) and Cactus Flats (SBNF records) which have similar habitat to the analysis area. While the higher elevation trail areas are not likely to be occupied by this species, the lower portions of the network in desert transition zones are likely occupied.

V-2.5.3.5 Coast Patch-Nosed Snake (Salvadora hexalepis virgultea) Coast patch-nosed snakes are a CDFW Species of Special Concern, a Federal Species of Concern (formerly known as USFWS Candidate species), and a SBNF Watchlist species. The coast patch-nosed snake prefers coastal sage scrub and chaparral habitats. Habitat selection is closely related to the presence of the species' primary prey, whiptail lizards (Cnemidophorus spp.), and the presence of refuge and overwinter sites provided by ground squirrels or other burrowing Page 133

mammals. Coast patch-nosed snake seems to require at least a low shrub structure of minimum density; it is not found in habitats lacking this habitat characteristic. Patch-nosed snakes are found up to 7000 feet in elevation.

Western patch-nosed snakes mate between April and June, and gravid females have been observed in the field May–August. This species typically lays one clutch of four to ten eggs, with an average clutch size of five to six. Incubation of eggs requires approximately 85 days. The hatchlings emerge in late summer. Adult coast patch-nosed snakes have been observed emerging from overwintering sites in March and returning to overwintering sites in October. Western patch-nosed snake is normally active in spring and early summer with the greatest activity occurring May–June. However, this species may be active all year in southern California during mild to warm years.

This snake is diurnal and has been observed throughout the day during the milder months of spring. In summer, this activity pattern becomes bimodal (a primary peak in late morning and a secondary peak in late afternoon), and it is suggested that this behavior corresponds roughly to the emergence interval of whiptail lizards, the major prey item. Coast patch-nosed snakes apparently remain immobile on the surface during the inactive period of the day.

Coast patch-nosed snake seems to be a broad generalist in its diet and an opportunistic feeder. It probably eats anything it can overpower, including small mammals (e.g., kangaroo rats [Dipodomys spp.]), lizards (Cnemidophorus spp., Coleonyx spp.), and the eggs of lizards and snakes. (Sources: http://www.dfg.ca.gov/biogeodata/cwhr; USFS 2006 Forest Plan species accounts).

Patch-nosed snakes are known from the analysis area near Coxey Meadow. It is not known if that record was the coast subspecies.

V-2.5.3.6 Mountain Garter Snake (Thamnophis elegans elegans) The mountain garter snake has been identified by the Forest Service as a species of local viability concern (Stephenson and Calcarone 1999), and is a SBNF Watchlist species. The mountain garter snake occurs across the northern third of California and throughout the Sierra Nevada. An isolated population occurs in the high elevations of the San Bernardino Mountains. The isolated southern California population of mountain garter snake occurs in the San Bernardino Mountains at elevations above 4,900 feet. There is little information on the distribution and abundance of this snake in the San Bernardino Mountains.

There are records from the vicinity of Big Bear Lake and Lake Arrowhead, and the Berkeley Museum of Vertebrate Zoology lists several historic records from the vicinity of the Santa Ana River, Fish Creek, Bear Lake, Bluff Lake, and Seven Oaks. More recent records include a single record of occurrence from 1971 near Skyforest in the Forest Service database (USDA Forest Service file information), and recent observations of this species from the vicinity of Arrastre Creek above 6,000 feet.

Page 134

Mountain garter snakes in the San Bernardino Mountains enter streams only occasionally, occurring more commonly in meadow-type vegetation and in very dry locations several miles from water.

Courtship and mating in T. elegans normally occur soon after spring emergence. Young are born alive, usually in secluded sites such as under the loose bark of rotting logs or in dense vegetation near pond or stream margins. A large female captured near Big Bear Lake on June 20, 1954, contained 11 eggs. A gravid female was captured going down a gopher burrow near Lake Arrowhead on July 30, 1921; this snake gave birth to four young the following October 11.

On the basis of documented behavior of red-sided garter snakes (Thamnophis sirtalis parietalis), this species at inland montane locations, might migrate to and from hibernacula where individuals spend the fall, winter, and early spring. T. elegans is an active diurnal snake. Peak activity occurs during the morning and late afternoon in mid-summer. Garter snakes have been observed to emerge from hibernacula and bask in the sun during winter. A varied diet, including beetles, toads, Pacific chorus frog, and sagebrush lizard, has been reported for this species in the San Bernardino Mountains. (Source: USFS 2006 Forest Plan species accounts)

Mountain garter snakes are likely to occur in throughout the analysis area.

V-2.5.3.7 Potential Effects to Watchlist Reptiles There is some potential for mortality of young and adults during initial ground clearing during construction of the OHV trail reroutes and trail/road maintenance proposed in Alternative 3. Death or injury of denned or hibernating individuals may occur as a result of dens and rock crevices being compacted or shifted during construction or maintenance activities. Additionally, these slow-moving reptiles are susceptible to being run over by vehicles that are using the trails and access roads. Design Features call for avoiding high-quality habitat features such as rock outcrops and downed logs during trail layout and construction. This would help reduce the risk to individual reptiles.

See Part II-3.2.7 for a discussion of the effects of disturbance and Part II-3.2.8 for a discussion of the risk of death/injury.

It is expected that the Proposed Action and Alternative 3 would have some beneficial effects to reptile species in the analysis area by lowering the trail density through restoration of user- created trails.

V-2.5.4 – SBNF Watchlist Birds Table 13 lists the SBNF Watchlist bird species that were observed in the analysis area or have high likelihood of occurrence based on habitat (Forest Service records and survey observations, SBNF “All Species” GIS layer; SBCM records, CNDDB).

California Partners In Flight “Bird Conservation Plans” were also used to assess potential for species and effects (CalPIF 2002 and 2004). Species accounts from the Forest Plan (USFS 2006) contain detailed information about life history, habitat needs, status, and threats. Those full species accounts are incorporated by reference. For the potential effects discussions below, Page 135

most of the species are grouped by primary habitat associations. Golden eagle is discussed separately due to higher levels of protection and management efforts.

Table 13. Summary of Breeding for SBNF Watchlist Birds in Rattlesnake OHV Trail Common OCCURS IN/ NEAR ANALYSIS AREA 1 Regular Breeder 2 turkey vulture (breeding) P N Osprey Y @ Coxey Pond N white-tailed kite Y @ Coxey Meadow N northern harrier Y @ Coxey Meadow N sharp-shinned hawk (breeding) P Y Cooper's hawk (breeding) P Y golden eagle Y (nesting on North Slope; foraging in analysis area) Y Merlin Y N Peregrine falcon P Y prairie falcon Y (Records from Cushenbury Springs; Burnt Flat, Breeding Y @Deep Canyon, Dry Canyon, Crystal Creek) flammulated owl P Y western screech owl P Y northern pygmy owl P Y long-eared owl P Y northern saw-whet owl Y @ upper Coxey Creek Y common nighthawk Y Y Mexican whip-poor-will P Y black swift P Y calliope hummingbird P Y Williamson's sapsucker P Y Nuttall's woodpecker P Y white-headed woodpecker P Y gray flycatcher Y @ North Slope Y loggerhead shrike Y @ North Slope Y plumbeous vireo Y @ North Slope Y Cassin’s vireo Y @ North Slope Y warbling vireo Y @ North Slope Y pinyon jay Y Y California horned lark (breeding) Y Y tree swallow P Y Swainson's thrush P N hermit thrush (breeding) P Y Virginia’s warbler (breeding) P N yellow warbler P Y MacGillivray's warbler P Y Wilson's warbler P Y Black-chinned sparrow Y @ N. Slope sites Y Lincoln's sparrow P Y Lawrence's goldfinch Y @ Coxey Meadow Y 1 Occurrence Information: Y = Species is known to occur. P = Occurrence of the species is probable; suitable habitat exists, and the species is known from nearby locations. B = Species is known or likely to nest in the area. M = The species uses the area during migration as a stopover. U = Occurrence of the species is unlikely based on habitat present. H = Part of the historical range but the species has been extirpated. N = Outside known distribution/range of the species. 2 Breeding records for San Bernardino Mountains from the San Bernardino County Museum (Field Checklist – Sept 1995) were used to evaluate breeding potential. See Appendix A for sighting records.

Page 136

V-2.5.4.1 Turkey Vulture (Cathartes aura) Breeding turkey vultures are a SBNF Watchlist species due to lack of breeding in southern California. In southern California, turkey vultures breed very locally in lowland, foothill, and mid-elevation habitats away from suburban/urban areas. In the west, they primarily nest in caves, protected rocky outcrops, or hollow logs, and sometimes in dense scrub. Large trees or cliff faces are required for roost sites because vultures need sufficient room for takeoff and sufficient protection from nocturnal predators. Turkey vultures exhibit strong fidelity to nest sites, returning year after year.

They migrate annually to the neotropics. Turkey vultures primarily feed on carrion but sometimes will kill and eat injured or weak animals. Turkey vultures are highly social and often roost together in large flocks. They form large communal night roosts during migration and on their wintering grounds. They often forage together and use visual cues to detect other vultures' discovery of prey. Flocks are commonly observed riding thermals. They primarily forage individually on carcasses, with others waiting nearby for their turn.

More information is needed to assess the current population status and distribution of breeding turkey vultures in southern California to confirm suspected declines. The decline of the turkey vulture breeding population in coastal San Diego County may have been caused by "loss of habitat from urban and agricultural development". Turkey vultures are susceptible to poisoning campaigns to control predators on livestock and have often been shot or trapped by ranchers throughout the west. They are also vulnerable to toxins, such as pesticides, that they ingest with their prey. They are highly sensitive at their nest sites and may abandon nests if disturbed. (Source: USFS 2006 Forest Plan Species Accounts)

Turkey vultures are known to forage in the area during the summer and migration (Kielhold 1993, White 2000). Suitable nesting habitat occurs nearby but not in the analysis area. There is the potential that over the life of the project, turkey vultures could nest on the North Slope, including in the vicinity of the Rattlesnake trails area.

V-2.5.4.2 Osprey (Pandion haliaetus) The osprey is a SBNF Watchlist species and a CDFW Watch species.

Ospreys are primarily an uncommon winter visitor in southern California, but nesting has been documented in a few places. Nesting has been suspected near Big Bear Lake.

Ospreys are associated with salt or fresh water. Their preferred foraging habitats include lakes and reservoirs, rivers, ponds, shorelines with cliffs, sheltered bays, estuaries, brackish coastal lagoons, wooded swamps with open water, and canals. Water bodies that are considered most suitable for osprey are typically clear and calm and support surface-feeding fish. Ospreys breed near water, but sometimes up to a couple of miles away. Nest sites include the tops of tall, broken-top trees or snags; rock ledges; or human-made structures such as pilings or transmission towers.

The osprey breeding season occurs from late March to early June. A single brood of three eggs is incubated by both parents for 32-33 days. Both parents tend the young; the young leave the Page 137

nest at about 51-59 days. Young usually depend on the parents for food for an additional 10-20 days.

In southern California, ospreys are most commonly encountered in fall and winter, although a few individuals remain through the summer. Individuals are known to occupy certain favored areas over long periods of time, often remaining for several years. Breeding site fidelity appears to be strong, with birds returning over subsequent years. (Source: USFS 2006 Forest Plan Species Account)

Ospreys have been observed at Coxey pond. This is likely an infrequent occurrence. Coxey pond is the only place in/near the project area with suitable habitat for this species. No new trails are proposed near the pond.

V-2.5.4.3 White-Tailed Kite (Elanus leucurus) The white-tailed kite is a SBNF Watchlist species and a CDFW “Fully Protected” species. This species is a yearlong resident in coastal and valley lowlands; it is rarely found away from agricultural areas. White-tailed kites inhabit herbaceous and open stages of most habitats mostly in cismontane California. The range of the white-tailed kite been extended and their numbers have increased in recent decades.

White-tailed kites prey mostly on voles and other small, diurnal mammals, occasionally on birds, insects, reptiles, and amphibians. They forage in undisturbed, open grasslands, meadows, farmlands and emergent wetlands. White-tailed kites use herbaceous lowlands with variable tree growth and dense population of voles. Substantial groves of dense, broad-leafed deciduous trees are used for nesting and roosting. In southern California, they also roost in saltgrass and Bermuda grass. (Source: http://www.dfg.ca.gov/biogeodata/cwhr/cawildlife.aspx)

White-tailed kites are known from the Coxey Meadow area. Occurrences of white-tailed kites at higher elevations in the San Bernardino Mountains appear to be increasing. There is potential for this species to forage and nest in the analysis area.

V-2.5.4.4 Northern Harrier (Circus cyaneus) The northern harrier is a SBNF Watchlist species and a CDFW Species of Special Concern.

Northern harriers occur from annual grassland up to lodgepole pine and alpine meadow habitats, as high as 10,000 ft. They breed from sea level 5700 feet in the Central Valley and Sierra Nevada, and up to 3600 feet in northeastern California. This species frequents meadows, grasslands, open rangelands, desert sinks, fresh and saltwater emergent wetlands; seldom found in wooded areas.

Harriers feed mostly on voles and other small mammals, birds, frogs, small reptiles, crustaceans, insects, and, rarely on fish. They make low, quartering flights 3-30 feet above open ground. They dive from flight or hover; rarely perches and pounces on prey.

Page 138

Northern harriers typically roost on the ground. They also nest on the ground in shrubby vegetation, usually in wetlands or along rivers and lakes. They may occasionally nest in grasslands, grain fields, or on sagebrush flats several miles from water.

Harriers breed April to September, with peak activity June through July. They are single- brooded with clutches averaging 5 eggs (range 3-12). The female incubates while male provides food. The nestling period lasts about 53 days. Breeding pairs and juveniles may roost communally in late autumn and winter.

The California population of northern harriers has decreased in recent decades, but can be locally abundant where suitable habitat remains free of disturbance, especially from intensive agriculture. Destruction of wetland habitat, native grassland, and moist meadows, and burning and plowing of nesting areas during early stages of breeding cycle are major reasons for the decline. (Source: http://www.dfg.ca.gov/biogeodata/cwhr/cawildlife.aspx)

Northern harriers are known from the North Slope area and at Coxey Meadow. Northern harriers are not known to nest in the San Bernardino Mountains but foraging may occasionally occur in the analysis area.

V-2.5.4.5 Sharp-Shinned Hawk (Accipiter striatus) The sharp-shinned hawk is a SBNF Watchlist species and a CDFW Watch species. In California, sharp-shinned hawks breed throughout the state, including the mountains of southern California, but the majority probably breed in the northern half of the state.

Sharp-shinned hawks in California typically nest in coniferous forests, often within riparian areas or on north-facing slopes. Nest stands are typically dense patches of small-diameter trees; these patches are cool, moist, and well shaded with little groundcover. Nest stands often occur near water and are typically in close proximity to open areas. Sharp-shinned hawks are presumed to be serially monogamous. The breeding season is mid-April to mid-July, with a single clutch of four-five eggs. The nest is a large, well-built structure of twigs, typically located in a tree crotch 10–60 feet high.

Sharp-shinned hawks are partial migrants over much of their North American range. Small birds are the main food taken, small mammals and, occasionally, large insects. Sharp-shinned hawks chase and attack perched or flying prey with short bursts of speed. Typically, sharp-shinned hawks remain motionless on perches, from where they can dart out to surprise prey. Sharp- shinned hawks forage in a wide variety of habitats, including forest canopy and subcanopy, shorelines, urban and suburban settings, smaller forest patches, and transitional habitats.

Sharp-shinned hawk occurs regularly in winter and as a migrant throughout the mountains of southern California, but nesting has been recorded only in the northern Santa Lucia, San Gabriel, San Bernardino, and San Jacinto Mountains. It is not known if nesting occurs regularly in these mountains, although records of birds sighted during summer in the San Bernardino and San Jacinto Mountains are common enough to suggest that it does. (Source: USFS 2006 Forest Plan Species Account)

Page 139

Sharp-shinned hawks are known from the San Bernardino Mountains, including the North Slope area and Cushenbury Springs (Kielhold 1993). This species has potential to breed in or near the analysis area.

V-2.5.4.6 Cooper’s Hawk (Accipiter cooperii) The Cooper’s hawk is a SBNF Watchlist species and a CDFW Watchlist species. Cooper's hawks breed in a wide variety of habitat types, including deciduous, coniferous, and mixed forests; oak woodlands; deciduous riparian habitats; woodlots; and suburban and urban areas. In southern California, Cooper's hawks typically nest in riparian forests, mountain canyons, and oak woodlands. Populations in southern California are likely to be permanent, non-migratory residents, although individuals may wander widely during winter. Cooper's hawks are strictly diurnal. Breeding begins in April or May, young fledge from mid-May to late June, and dispersal begins in late July to August.

Cooper’s hawks catch small birds, especially young during nesting season, and small mammals; they also take reptiles and amphibians. They hunt in broken woodland and habitat edges; catches prey in air, on ground, and in vegetation. Cooper’s hawks often dashes suddenly from perch in dense cover and pursues prey in air through branches. They sometimes run prey down in dense thickets. They use cover to hide, attack, and approach prey; also soars and makes low, gliding search flights.

Breeding Bird Survey data for the last 20 years (1980 to 2000) suggest that Cooper's hawk populations in California may be declining. Habitat in the lower elevation woodlands on private land is developing rapidly. (Sources: USFS 2006 Forest Plan Species Accounts; http://www.dfg.ca.gov/biogeodata/cwhr/cawildlife.aspx)

Cooper’s hawks are known from the North Slope and have bred at Cushenbury Springs (Kielhold 1993) and in Crystal Creek in a canyon live oak tree (Myers 1988, CNDDB and SBNF records – 1988 at about 5400’). They are likely to forage, and potentially breed, in the analysis area.

V-2.5.4.7 Ferruginous Hawk (Buteo regalis) The ferruginous hawk is a SBNF Watchlist species and a CDFW Watchlist species. Ferruginous hawks are migratory, arriving in California in September and departing by mid-April. They breed in Oregon into Canada. There are no breeding records from California.

Ferruginous hawks frequent open grasslands, sagebrush flats, desert scrub, low foothills surrounding valleys, and fringes of pinyon-juniper habitats. This species nests in foothills or prairies; on low cliffs, buttes, cut banks, shrubs, trees, or in other elevated structures, natural or human-made. They roost in open areas, usually a lone tree or utility pole. They are tolerant of heat and sun.

When foraging, ferruginous hawks search for prey from low flights over open, treeless areas, and glides to intercept prey on the ground. They also hover and hunt from high mound perches. These hawks mostly eat lagomorphs, ground squirrels, and mice; also takes birds, reptiles, and amphibians. Ferruginous hawks require large, open tracts of grasslands, sparse shrub, or desert Page 140

habitats with elevated structures for nesting. They are diurnal and active year-round. (Source: http://www.dfg.ca.gov/biogeodata/cwhr/cawildlife.aspx)

The analysis area supports suitable habitat for foraging by migratory ferruginous hawks. Breeding would not be expected; this species does not regularly breed in the San Bernardino Mountains.

V-2.5.4.8 Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos) The golden eagle is a SBNF Watchlist species, a species identified by the Forest Service as a local viability concern, a CDFW Watchlist species, and a California state fully-protected species. It is protected under the federal Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act (Eagle Act) and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA).

Life History and Baseline Information: In California, golden eagles are an uncommon permanent resident and migrant throughout most of the state, except the floor of the Central Valley (Ziener et al. 1990). This species ranges from sea level to 11,500 feet (Ziener et al. 1990). It is an uncommon year-round resident in southern California (Pagel, pers. comm. 2013). Historically, golden eagles were considered more abundant in remote parts of southern California than anywhere else in the United States (Ziener et al. 1990).

Golden eagles nest primarily on cliffs. In some areas in California, they nest in trees (Pagel, pers. comm. 2013). They build their nests on rock outcrops, cliff ledges, or in trees, typically 10-100 feet above the ground. As a species that is skittish about human intrusion, they often occupy remote mountain ranges and upland areas, often at or above tree line where vegetation is short or sometimes absent. In southern California, golden eagles generally avoid nesting in heavily forested mountains, the coast, and urban areas. They hunt for rabbits and other small mammals in nearby open habitats, such as grasslands, oak savannas, and open shrublands (Ferguson-Lees and Christie 2001, Garrett and Dunn 1981). Also a scavenger, golden eagles will forage on large dead animals (Pagel, pers. comm. 2013).

Wintering habitats in the western United States tend to include available perches and native shrub-steppe vegetation types (e.g., comprising Artemisia and similar shrubs). Habitats with these characteristics typically support substantial prey populations of black-tailed jackrabbits (Lepus californicus) (Johnsgard 1990).

The golden eagle breeding season in southern California begins in December and chicks fledge through July, depending on elevation of the nest (Pagel, pers. comm. 2013). The nest is constructed of branches, twigs, and stems of any kind and is added to continuously during the nesting period. A nest can be quite large and may become more massive with successive use. Alternative nest sites within the breeding territory are occasionally used; up to 18 different nest sites per territory is not uncommon (Pagel, pers. comm. 2013).

Females typically lay two eggs and incubate them for 43–45 days. The semi-altricial eaglets are brooded by the female for an additional 30 days. The male delivers food to the female, and the female feeds the young. The young fly at about 60-70 days, remaining near the nest site for a few weeks to months (Baicich and Harrison 1997, Zeiner et a. 1990, Pagel, pers. comm. Page 141

2013). Breeding site fidelity in adult golden eagles is high. Juvenile golden eagles disperse from their natal area. After dispersal, they often live nomadically until they establish a territory after they become full adults (Pagel, pers. comm. 2013).

In California, golden eagles are resident; however, they also visit California during migration and per seasonal movements of nomadic subadults and adult floater eagles. Eagles may move altitudinally and latitudinally in response to changing weather conditions; they may also move upslope after the breeding season (Ziener et al. 1990, Pagel, 2013, pers. comm.).

Golden eagles will occasionally hunt from an exposed perch, flying directly toward prey, or will hunt from soaring or low ground-level flights (Ziener et al. 1990). Golden eagles eat primarily lagomorphs and rodents, but they will also take other mammals, reptiles, carrion, and birds (Johnsgard 1990, Dunne et al. 1988). Studies of golden eagle diet indicate that mammals comprise 82 percent of the diet, supplemented by birds at 12.6 percent, with the remainder consisting of reptiles and fish (Ziener et al. 1990).

Golden eagles are highly territorial, and monogamous pairs may occupy a territory over their life span. Territorial boundaries are well defined and vigorously defended. Golden eagles tend to nest on the periphery of an adjacent eagle’s territory. Territorial size is dependent on food resources available (Pagel, pers. comm. 2013).

Threats to golden eagles include loss of habitat from development, agriculture and mining, secondary poisoning incidental to canid and rodent control, lead poisoning from feeding on ingesting hunter-killed/injured animals, electrocution, collisions with wind turbines, intentional shooting, disturbance to nest sites (including from rock climbing), and poaching (DeLong 2004, Ruddock and Whitfield 2007).

Occurrence in Analysis area: Golden eagles are known to nest from a number of sites on and near the North Slope, including one nest within 1.5 miles. The analysis area is currently used by foraging golden eagles. The entire analysis area is suitable for prey species used by golden eagles. There are no suitable cliff nest sites along the proposed trails.

Potential Effects – Golden Eagle: The project analysis area does not support suitable cliff or rock outcrop features for nesting but there are suitable sites and known nesting territories on the North Slope. Golden eagles are known to nest in trees occasionally and the habitat that is present could potentially be used for nesting. No high quality cliff or rock outcrop nesting habitat is expected to be directly affected.

The Proposed Action and Alternative 3 would result in restoration of previously-disturbed foraging habitat. Prey habitat would be restored in the areas where user-created trails are closed and restored. This project may result in a net gain of foraging habitat as result of the prey species habitat being restored.

If golden eagles are foraging in the analysis area, the presence of OHV users and the associated noise may cause them to flush and move to other areas. Golden eagles may be disturbed if they nest or forage within line-of-sight of trails or trailering sites or if they nest close enough to be Page 142

disturbed by the noise of OHVs. They may also be disturbed by activities that they are not accustomed to; if they nest or frequently forage within view of a road, they may have acclimatized to that activity already and have a higher tolerance for those types of disturbance. However, all routes under the Proposed Action are existing user-created trails (with minor reroutes). Since OHV-related activities are already occurring in the area, it is not expected that there would be anything outside of what they are already accustomed to. See Section II-3.2.7 for a discussion of the effects of disturbance to wildlife.

Under the Eagle Act, “take” is defined as “pursue, shoot, shoot at, poison, wound, kill, capture, trap, collect, destroy, molest or disturb.” “Disturb” is defined in regulations as “to agitate or bother a bald or golden eagle to a degree that causes, or is likely to cause, based on the best scientific information available: (1) injury to an eagle, (2) a decrease in its productivity, by substantially interfering with normal breeding, feeding, or sheltering behavior, or (3) nest abandonment, by substantially interfering with normal breeding, feeding, or sheltering behavior.”

The Design Features include a several measures to help limit the potential for disturbance of raptors as a result of OHV activities, including reroutes of trails that are currently running through nesting habitat.

It is not expected that the activities associated with construction, restoration, or use/maintenance of the trail system would result in disturbance that would fit the Eagle Act definition of disturbance. d) Cumulative Effects – Golden eagles: Golden eagle populations are believed to have local declines in some areas of its range in the U.S. (Millsap et al. 2013, Kochert and Steenhof 2002). Threats to golden eagles include powerlines (electrocutions and collisions), contaminants (e.g., lead, secondary poisoning from rodenticides), shooting and poaching, incidental trapping in furbearer traps, drowning in stock-tanks, vehicle collisions, habitat loss, disturbance, and large- scale non-renewable and renewable energy developments (Millsap et al. 2013).

Mortality of golden eagles as a result of wind turbine collisions has been high (as many as an average of 64/year at Altamont Pass over the past six years (Pagel et al. 2013). Large-scale solar panel projects result in losses of large acreages of foraging habitat for golden eagles. Within the foreseeable future, a number of new renewable energy projects are expected to come online in California’s deserts, as suggested by the number of applications for renewable energy projects (http://www.energy.ca.gov/siting/solar/; http://www.blm.gov/ca/st/en /prog/energy/wind.html). Those combined with existing developments and other threats to golden eagles contribute to the concern for the golden eagle population in the western U.S.

Large wildfires also pose a threat to golden eagles by affecting habitat suitability for nesting and foraging. Climate change may increase the frequency and severity of wildfires, reducing the availability of prey, perch, and nest sites.

Currently, the SBNF is evaluating a proposal by Mitsubishi to develop a new large open pit quarry a few miles to the east on the North Slope. Omya has also proposed an expansion of their White Knob, Sentinel, and Butterfield quarry limestone mining. All of those operations have the Page 143

potential to affect the availability of foraging and nesting habitat and may result in disturbance to golden eagles using the areas.

The proposed project may add some minor effects to the cumulative effects for this species.

Summary for Golden Eagle: The Proposed Action and Alternative 3 may result in gains of habitat for prey species as a result of reduced trail densities. Nesting habitat is not expected to be affected. Disturbance effects are expected to be minor.

V-2.5.4.9 Merlin (Falco columbarius) The merlin is a Forest Service Watchlist and a CDFW Watch species. It is a USFWS Bird of Conservation Concern. Merlins are uncommon winter migrants from September to May. They are seldom found in heavily-wooded areas, or open deserts, preferring to frequent coastlines, open grasslands, savannahs, woodlands, lakes, wetlands, edges, and early successional stages. They range from annual grasslands to ponderosa pine and montane hardwood-conifer habitats.

Merlins are small, very fast falcons that are found in wide open space and open woods. They nest in trees in forests with open areas. They spot prey from a perch or low fast flights. They close with incredible speed and attack with abrupt turns, often from below. They feed almost entirely on small birds but will take dragonflies mid-air. Numbers have declined markedly in California in recent decades. Because they feed mostly on birds, merlin numbers probably have been reduced by pesticides.

The primary prey includes small birds; also small mammals and insects. Dense tree stands close to bodies of water are needed for cover. (Source: http://www.dfg.ca.gov/biogeodata/cwhr/cawildlife.aspx)

This species does not breed in California (breeding is in Alaska and Canada). Merlins have been observed in the analysis area by USFS biologists.

V-2.5.4.10 American Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrines anatus) The peregrine falcon is a Forest Service Watchlist and a CDFW “fully protected” species. It is a USFWS Bird of Conservation Concern. It has been removed from the Federal and State of California’s Endangered Species lists.

Peregrine falcons nest almost exclusively on protected ledges of high cliffs, primarily in woodland, forest, and coastal habitats. A very small number of nests have been found on small outcrops and in trees, and a number of reintroduced pairs nest on tall buildings. Cliffs that provide ledges, potholes, or small caves (usually with an overhang), and that are relatively inaccessible to mammalian predators, are required components of nesting habitat. Nest sites usually provide a panoramic view of open country, are near water, and are associated with a local abundance of passerine, waterfowl, or shorebird prey. Peregrine falcons have been known to nest at elevations as high as 10,000 feet, but most occupied nest sites are below 4,000 feet.

Page 144

The breeding season of peregrine falcon generally begins in February and lasts to June. Courtship (in February) typically involves the male provisioning the female with food. Females normally lay four eggs; egg-laying in California typically occurs in March. Both male and female incubate the eggs for 29–33 days. In California, fledging occurs in late May or early June when the young are 35–42 days old. Juvenile peregrine falcons begin hunting on their own and become independent 6–15 weeks after fledging.

Peregrine falcons feed almost exclusively on birds; most of their avian prey is medium-sized to moderately large. They typically feed on highly mobile, flocking, and colonial nesting birds, such as shorebirds, waterfowl, doves, and pigeons. Peregrine falcons chase and grab their prey, or dive down on them at speeds up to 100–200 miles per hour (i.e., stooping). During the stoop, a peregrine falcon grasps its prey or strikes it with its talons and subsequently retrieves it on the ground. Peregrine falcons hunt during the day or at dusk. During the breeding season, adult peregrine falcons attack and chase other raptors away from the nest, especially golden eagles and other peregrine falcons that move through their territory. Adults hunt over a large area around the nest site; foraging may occur up to 12 miles from the nest.

The widespread use of organochloride pesticides, especially DDT, was a primary cause of the decline in peregrine falcon populations. High levels of these pesticides and their metabolites (i.e., byproducts of organic decompositions) have been found in the tissues of peregrine falcons, leading to thin eggshells and reproductive failure. Environmental toxins continue to be a threat. Other threats include illegal shooting, illegal falconry activities, and habitat destruction. NFS lands in southern California do not support a large amount of high-quality habitat for American peregrine falcon. Protecting cliff-nesting sites from human disturbance has been identified as an important conservation measure for peregrine falcons on NFS lands. (Source: USFS 2006 Forest Plan Species Account)

Peregrine falcons are known to occur in the Big Bear Lake area of the SBNF, primarily during spring and fall migration. They have been observed around Big Bear and Baldwin Lakes. Peregrine falcons are known to nest at one site in the San Bernardino Mountains. The nest site is approximately 75 feet high located on a cliff face. Successful fledging of chicks was documented in July 2009 and again in 2012. There were no other known nesting sites for peregrine falcons known on the SBNF until 2012, when a pair was observed exhibiting courtship behavior on rock outcrops in the Cajon Pass. Historically, both sites supported prairie falcon nesting.

The North Slope, including areas close to the Rattlesnake analysis area, has an abundance of rocky outcrops and cliffs that are suitable peregrine falcon nest sites. With successful nesting efforts in the mountain range and increasing populations of peregrine falcons in the western U.S., it is possible that this species could nest on the North Slope of the San Bernardino Mountains, including near the analysis area.

See the previous effects discussion for golden eagles. The discussions of effects to habitat, nest sites, and disturbance apply to peregrine falcons.

Page 145

V-2.5.4.11 Prairie Falcon (Falco mexicanus) Prairie falcons are a SBNF Watchlist species and a CDFW Watchlist species. Prairie falcons inhabit shrub-steppe desert, open desert scrub, grassland, mixed shrub-grasslands, and alpine tundra. Prairie falcon habitat typically consists of dry open terrain, either hilly or level. Nests are located on cliffs, generally in arid open areas. Desert scrub and grasslands are preferred foraging habitats in southern California. This species has declined in the coastal foothills of southern California, probably due to the loss of foraging habitat.

Prairie falcons breed in mid-April on cliff ledges or rock outcrops in open regions. Nests are typically scrapes located 30-40 feet high on a cliff or rock outcrop; they are occasionally found as high as 400 feet. Abandoned nests built by other birds are rarely used by prairie falcons. The female incubates a single clutch; clutches usually contain four-five eggs. Incubation lasts for approximately 29-31 days. The male feeds the female, rarely taking part in incubation duties.

Prairie falcons are described as more of a wanderer than a true migrant. They move seasonally, probably in response to food availability. Most of the species' southward movements occur between late August and late October, with the main return flight taking place in early March to late April.

Primary foods taken by prairie falcons include horned larks (Eremophila alpestris) and other small passerines, lizards, ground squirrels (Spermophilus spp.), and small rodents. Prairie falcons employ two main hunting strategies: one is to flush a prey item and fly along a route meant to conceal the prairie falcon until the last moment; the other is to patrol long distances close to the ground until it may surprise its quarry. Prairie falcons defend a small area around the nest site from conspecific and other intruders. However, prairie falcons forage over large, undefended areas, and do not defend territories at all during winter.

The species is legally harvested in 19 states. Falconers legally take an estimated 0.2 percent of the prairie falcon population each year, making it the second most commonly harvested raptor in the United States. Because of prairie falcons' strong association with cliffs as nesting sites, they are especially susceptible to habitat loss adjacent to suitable nest structures. Prairie falcons can be adversely affected by large-scale agricultural development, especially in foraging areas with high densities of ground squirrels. Much of the prime foraging area for prairie falcons has been lost to development on the coastal side of the San Gabriel Mountains south to the Mexican border. The San Gabriel, San Bernardino, and Santa Ana Mountains are expected to be surrounded by urban development in the next 20-50 years. (Source: USFS 2006 Forest Plan Species Account)

Prairie falcons are known to occur in the analysis area, on the North Slope and adjacent SBNF lands. Suitable habitat for foraging and nesting exists in and near the analysis area. Nesting is suspected on the North Slope but has not been confirmed.

See the previous discussions about golden eagles. The discussions of habitat, nest sites, and disturbance apply to prairie falcons.

Page 146

V-2.5.4.12 Flammulated Owl (Otus flammeolus) The flammulated owl has been identified by the Forest Service as a local viability concern (Stephenson and Calcarone 1999) and a SBNF Watchlist species. Flammulated owls nest at elevations of 5,500–9,000 feet, primarily in the San Gabriel, San Bernardino, and San Jacinto Mountains.

In southern California, flammulated owls breed in open, mature Jeffrey (Pinus jeffreyi) or ponderosa pine (P. ponderosa) forests intermixed with black oak (Quercus kelloggii). They occur less frequently in stands dominated by white fir (Abies concolor) and probably only where at least some large pines are present. Flammulated owls avoid areas with high humidity and high daytime temperatures; they are typically found in semiarid mid-slope or ridgetop forests with scattered thickets of shrubs or saplings and clearings. Areas with edge habitat and grassy openings up to 2 ha (5 acres) in size are beneficial to the owls. In some localities, flammulated owls have been detected in almost pure stands of pinyon pine (P. quadrifolia).

They are secondary cavity nesters; black oaks may be important sources of suitable cavities. Flammulated owls in the southern part of their range commonly use old nest cavities excavated by common flicker (Colaptes auratus) in large snags. Average dbh of nest trees is greater than 20 inches. The breeding season of flammulated owl begins as early as May and lasts into August.

Flammulated owls are a nocturnal species. During the breeding season, nest visitation rates by adults peak just after dusk and before dawn, but are otherwise variable through the night. Flammulated owls are almost entirely insectivorous. They prey on nocturnal insects including owlet moths (Noctuidae), beetles, and crickets and grasshoppers.

The greatest threats to the flammulated owl include the loss of large trees and snags, overly dense stands and the subsequent shift in species composition from pine and oak to fir and shade tolerant species. (Source: USFS 2006 Forest Plan Species Account)

Suitable habitat occurs for this species within the Rattlesnake analysis area and in Coxey Creek, Holcomb Creek, and other drainages around the analysis area. This species is a regular breeder in the San Bernardino Mountains and could nest in or near the analysis area.

V-2.5.4.13 Western Screech Owl (Otus kennicottii) The western screech owl has been identified by the Forest Service as a local viability concern (Stephenson and Calcarone 1999) and a SBNF Watchlist species. Western screech owls are uncommon to common, yearlong resident of open oak, pinyon-juniper, riparian, redwood, and mixed conifer habitats. They are tolerant of humans; found in small towns, suburbs, farms, ranches, and meadows. This species occurs between sea level and 8000 feet. They perch, pounce, and stoop for mice and other small mammals, birds, fish, reptiles, amphibians, and arthropods in meadows and other openings in trees. Small birds are frequently taken in nesting season. Insects are an important food source in summer and fall. They roost and nest in abandoned woodpecker holes or other tree cavities. Western screech owls are nocturnal. They are non-migratory. (Source: USFS 2006 Forest Plan Species Accounts)

Page 147

This species is a regular breeder in the San Bernardino Mountains and could nest in or near the analysis area. Suitable habitat for nesting, roosting, and foraging exists for this species occurs in the Coxey Creek area and the portions of the analysis area with pinyon-juniper woodland and Jeffrey pine forest.

V-2.5.4.14 Northern Pygmy Owl (Glaucidium gnoma) The northern pygmy owl has been identified by the Forest Service as a species of local viability concern (Stephenson and Calcarone 1999) and a SBNF Watchlist species. It is an uncommon to fairly common, yearlong resident of most forest habitats in California, especially valley foothill hardwood, mixed conifer, valley foothill riparian, and montane riparian. They are often found in canyons. It is most commonly found along edges near meadows, streams, lakes, and other openings. Northern pygmy owls are found between sea level and 0-12,000 feet.

They roost and nest in abandoned woodpecker holes or other tree cavities. They are non- migratory but may move up and down slope in winter. In contrast to other owl species, northern pygmy owls are at least partly diurnal. The main food items of northern pygmy-owl are insects, small rodents, and reptiles. (Source: USFS 2006 Forest Plan Species Accounts)

This species is a regular breeder in the San Bernardino Mountains and could nest in or near the proposed analysis area. Suitable habitat for nesting, roosting, and foraging exists for this species occurs in the Coxey Creek area and the portions of the analysis area with pinyon-juniper woodland and Jeffrey pine forest. It is unlikely to occur in the lower portions in desert transition habitats.

V-2.5.4.15 Long-Eared Owl (Asio otus) The long-eared owl is a CDFW Species of Special Concern and a SBNF Watchlist species. Long-eared owls breed in mature live oak and riparian woodlands in coastal and foothill areas, but also occur in desert riparian, woodland, and oasis habitats. Long-eared owls may begin egg- laying in March, and most young fledge by mid-May. They tend to nest in old corvid and raptor nests and occasionally in dwarf-mistletoe brooms. Long-eared owls are active primarily during the night. Long-eared owls prey primarily on voles and mice, but will also take birds on occasion. They most often hunt at night over open grasslands and meadows.

Substantial declines in the numbers and range of long-eared owls in California have been documented. This species is known to occur in the San Bernardino Mountains. (Source: USFS 2006 Forest Plan Species Accounts)

Long-eared owls are a notoriously irruptive species and use a variety of nest substrates, including old raptor nests, rock caves, and outcrops (G. Braden, pers. comm. 2013). This species is a regular breeder in the San Bernardino Mountains and could nest in or near the proposed expansion area.

Long-eared owls are known to breed at Cushenbury Springs (Kielhold 1993). Suitable habitat for nesting, roosting, and foraging habitat for long-eared owls occurs in the Coxey Creek/Meadow/Pond as well as in Jeffrey pine forest or pinyon/juniper woodlands. It is unlikely to occur in desert transition habitat of the analysis area. Page 148

V-2.5.4.16 Northern Saw-Whet Owl (Aegolius acadicus) The northern saw-whet owl has been identified by the Forest Service as a species of local viability concern (Stephenson and Calcarone 1999) and a SBNF Watchlist species. Northern saw-whet owl most commonly breeds in dense oaks intermixed with conifers and in pine and fir forests that have an oak understory, although open conifer forests are occupied at higher elevations. Northern saw-whet owls are secondary cavity nesters that primarily utilize cavities excavated by woodpeckers, although they will use natural cavities or artificial nest boxes. Northern saw-whet owl is known to persist year-round on the breeding grounds, although many move south in autumn. Northern saw-whet owls exhibit yearlong nocturnal activity. The diet of northern saw-whet owl consists mainly of small rodents and occasionally small birds, frogs, and insects. Northern saw-whet owls are territorial; they proclaim territories through the exchange of vocalizations. (Source: USFS 2006 Forest Plan Species Accounts)

This species is a regular breeder in the San Bernardino Mountains and could nest in or near the analysis area. Suitable habitat for nesting, roosting, and foraging habitat for this species occurs in forested portions of the analysis area. It is unlikely to occur in the desert transition habitat.

V-2.5.4.17 Common Nighthawk (Chordeiles minor) The common nighthawk has been identified by the Forest Service as a species of local viability concern (Stephenson and Calcarone 1999) and a SBNF Watchlist species. Common nighthawk is a local species of concern because it is a rare breeder in southern California and there are few known nesting localities on NFS lands. In the San Bernardino Mountains, it is found near Big Bear Lake, Bluff Lake, Sugarloaf and the San Gorgonio Wilderness. It is found between 3,000 and 9,000 feet in elevation.

Common nighthawks forage over a variety of habitats, from open coniferous forest to sagebrush plains, and are frequently seen foraging over open bodies of water. In forested areas of California, common nighthawks are generally associated with white fir (Abies concolor), Ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa), and lodgepole pine (P. contorta). Some open, gravelly substrate is required for nesting. Nesting habitat includes woodland clearings, flat gravel rooftops, clearcuts, open forest, rural fields, sagebrush and grassland habitat, beaches and coastal sand dunes, prairies and plains, and rocky outcrops. Common nighthawks typically nest on bare ground, using no gathered material. The breeding season begins late May to early April.

Common nighthawks forage by hawking flying insects. It is an opportunistic feeder, taking those insects that are most abundant and most easily captured. Preferred foraging habitats include broad, open fly-ways over wet meadow, emergent wetland, lacustrine, and riverine habitats and shrub-covered valleys and plains. In addition, often forages at lights, and over most habitats, including forests. More than 50 species of insects have been reported as common nighthawk prey.

Common nighthawks are crepuscular, with dusk flights beginning about 30 minutes before sunset and ending about 70 minutes after sunset. Dawn flights begin about an hour before sunrise and last until about 15 minutes after sunrise. The remaining hours of the day are spent roosting. Common nighthawks migrate great distances; in fact, the species follows one of the Page 149

longest migration routes traveled by any North American bird. (Sources: USFS 2006 Forest Plan Species Accounts; http://www.dfg.ca.gov/biogeodata/cwhr/cawildlife.aspx)

This species is known from the vicinity of the analysis area (Coxey Meadow area) and is a regular breeder in the San Bernardino Mountains. Suitable habitat for nesting, roosting, and foraging habitat for common nighthawk occurs in the analysis area and vicinity.

V-2.5.4.18 Mexican Whip-Poor-Will (Caprimulgus arizonae) The whip-poor-will is a SBNF Watchlist species. The whip-poor-will is a rare and local summer resident in mountains of southern California. It is found in a small area of the San Bernardino Mountains around Big Bear, Heart Bar, and the Santa Ana River. In California, has been found on steep slopes in montane hardwood, montane hardwood-conifer, and mixed conifer habitats, as well as in montane riparian and pinyon-juniper habitats.

Whip-poor-wills feed on flying insects, especially moths, caught in short sallies made from the ground or from a perch in a tree. They nest in a scrape on the ground in the litter of woodlands. They are found in sparse and dense woodlands, often on steep slopes.

Whip-poor-wills are crepuscular and nocturnal in habits. They arrive in California from Mexico and Central America by early May and apparently mostly gone by mid-August. (Source: http://www.dfg.ca.gov/biogeodata/cwhr/cawildlife.aspx) While there are no definite nesting records for California, nesting is suspected in the Big Bear Area based on Rare Bird Alert records.

This species is a regular breeder in the San Bernardino Mountains. Suitable habitat for nesting, roosting, and foraging habitat for whip-poor-will occurs in the analysis area and vicinity.

V-2.5.4.19 Calliope Hummingbird (Stellula calliope) The calliope hummingbird is a SBNF Watchlist species and has been identified by the Forest Service as a local viability concern. Calliope hummingbirds occur primarily in montane habitats. Calliope hummingbirds generally breed along meadow borders and in streamside thickets (especially willows) within arid mixed-conifer forests.

Calliope hummingbirds are neotropical migrants. The breeding season of the calliope hummingbird generally begins in April and lasts to August. Males arrive on the breeding grounds before females, typically in late April. There is no available information about pair formation, territory establishment, or the specific timing of nest construction. Nests are usually built 10-30 feet above ground in forests adjacent to meadows and riparian zones used for foraging.

Foraging occurs in montane chaparral and wet meadow habitats where herbaceous plants are used for nectar. Calliope hummingbird eats floral nectar and small insects. Nectar sources include the typical red tubular flowers as well as a variety of plant species with white, blue, and purple flowers. Calliope hummingbird forages aerially for insects. Heavy recreation use, facilities development, and overgrazing by livestock can degrade montane riparian habitat condition. Surface water diversions, excessive erosion by roads and/or trails, and/or Page 150

groundwater extraction or other hydrological changes can reduce or eliminate these habitats. (Source: USFS 2006 Forest Plan Species Account)

This species is a regular breeder in the San Bernardino Mountains and could nest in or near the analysis area.

V-2.5.4.20 Williamson’s Sapsucker (Sphyrapicus thyroideus) The Williamson's sapsucker is a SBNF Watchlist species and was identified as a species of local viability concern (Stephenson and Calcarone 1999). Williamson's sapsuckers breed at high elevations in coniferous forests dominated by white fir (Abies concolor) or lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta) and are more widely distributed in montane conifer forests during the winter. In the mountains of southern California, they are typically found on north-facing slopes.

Williamson's sapsuckers nest in cavities that are in most cases newly excavated each year. Aspen trees are actively selected where they are available, but nests are also found in both live and dead pines and larches. Availability of suitable nesting substrates such as dead trees and snags is a critical component of nesting habitat. Williamson's sapsuckers nest in cavities, usually in dead wood, in tree trunks 5-60 feet above the ground. The same nest tree is often used year after year, with a new cavity usually excavated each year. Nest excavation begins in mid-April and last 3-4 weeks. Females lay a clutch of five to six eggs in May; eggs are incubated by both the male and female for approximately 13 days. Young are tended by both parents until leaving the nest site at about 31 days.

Williamson's sapsuckers are omnivorous with a seasonally specialized diet. During spring and summer, conifer sap and phloem is the main food taken; the diet shifts to ants (Hymenoptera) in the winter after the young are hatched. Other insects are occasionally taken, including aphids (Homoptera), beetles (Coleoptera), and flies (Diptera). Williamson's sapsuckers drill horizontal rows of small holes in lodgepole and other conifers, drink sap, and eat the cambium and other soft tissues. They may also eat fruits and berries in winter.

Williamson's sapsucker is a local species of concern because its breeding population in southern California is small, disjunct, and restricted to high-elevation forests. Breeding habitat for Williamson's sapsucker is probably most threatened by the risk of large, stand-replacing fire. Habitat in each occupied mountain range is very limited in extent and is vulnerable to loss in a single large fire event. (Source: USFS 2006 Forest Plan Species Account)

This species is a regular breeder in the San Bernardino Mountains and could nest in or near the analysis area. Suitable habitat for nesting, roosting, and foraging habitat for Williamson’s sapsuckers occurs in the analysis area and vicinity.

V-2.5.4.21 Nuttall's Woodpecker (Picoides nuttallii) The Nuttall’s woodpecker is a SBNF Watchlist species and a USFWS Bird of Conservation Concern. Nuttall’s woodpeckers are a common, permanent resident of low-elevation riparian deciduous and oak habitats. It forages mostly in oak and riparian deciduous habitats. They peck, probe, drill for sap, and glean from trunks, branches, twigs and foliage. Adult and larval insects,

Page 151

mostly beetles, may make up 80% of the diet. It also eats berries, poison-oak seeds, nuts, other fruits, and sap.

Nuttall’s woodpeckers excavate a nesting cavity 2-60 feet above ground. Nests are located mostly in riparian habitat in dead (occasionally live) trunk or limb of willow, sycamore, cottonwood, or alder; rarely in oaks. It breeds from late March to early July; peak activity April to early June. They are diurnal and may migrate upslope after breeding. (Source: http://www.dfg.ca.gov/biogeodata/cwhr/cawildlife.aspx)

This species is a regular breeder in the San Bernardino Mountains and could nest in or near the analysis area. Nuttall’s woodpeckers known from Dry Canyon (Myers 1988), Crystal Creek (Myers 1988), Jacoby Canyon (SBNF records), Cushenbury Springs (Myers 2005), including breeding there (Kielhold 1993).

V-2.5.4.22 Southern White-Headed Woodpecker (Picoides albolarvatus gravirostris) The southern white-headed woodpecker is a SBNF Watchlist species, a USFWS Bird of Conservation Concern, and has been identified by the Forest Service as a species of local viability concern (Stephenson and Calcarone 1999). The southern California populations of this species are considered to be a distinct, endemic subspecies. Southern white-headed woodpecker is found in the higher mountains of southern California, generally at elevations of 6,000–8,000 feet.

White-headed woodpecker is found in mixed conifer forests dominated by large-coned pines such as Coulter (Pinus coulteri), sugar (P. sabiana), Jeffrey (P. jeffreyi), and ponderosa (P. ponderosa), ranging only marginally into associations dominated by white fir (Abies concolor) or lodgepole pine (P. murrayana). Generally, white-headed woodpeckers prefer open stands of both managed and unmanaged forests. White-headed woodpeckers in central Oregon showed a preference for larger-diameter trees (average > 24 inches diameter at breast height), with preference increasing with diameter. Requisite habitat components include relatively mature, open stands of large-coned pines, usually with more than one species of pine present in the area; and available snags and stumps for nest sites.

Breeding season for white-headed woodpecker generally begins in late April and lasts to August. Females lay a clutch of three to five eggs in a nest cavity typically in dead wood, between 3 to 30 feet above ground. White-headed woodpeckers forage almost exclusively on pine seeds in winter before the cones open. Wood ants (Camponotus spp.) are the main summer diet, supplemented with spiders and other insects gleaned from beneath bark scales. White- headed woodpecker is a quiet forager, prying and flaking off successive scale layers with angled strokes rather than tapping.

White-headed woodpeckers in southern California have exhibited significant sexual differences in mean foraging height, with males concentrating on the upper third of the tree and females foraging on the trunk and proximal portions of the lower branches

Page 152

White-headed woodpecker is generally sedentary, engaging in only minimal movements within mountain ranges, but exhibiting some elevational movements in winter. Higher concentrations of white-headed woodpeckers occur in fall and late summer in areas with good pine seed crops.

White-headed woodpecker is closely associated with mature pine trees, which appear to be declining in many areas of southern California's mountains. These declines are a result of historic logging practices, reduced fire frequencies, and expanding development in mountain communities. The current lack of low- to moderate-intensity ground fires in montane conifer forest is continuing to result in a shift from forests dominated by pine and black oak (Quercus kelloggii) to forests dominated by white fir and incense cedar (Calocedrus decurrens), thus reducing the amount of pine-dominated habitat and increasing the risk of catastrophic wildland fire.

This species is a regular breeder in the San Bernardino Mountains and could nest in or near the analysis area. This species is known from Dry and Deep Canyons and the Holcomb Valley area. It is likely to nest and forage in the portions of the project area that contain Jeffrey pine forest habitat.

V-2.5.4.23 Gray Flycatcher (Empidonax wrightii) The gray flycatcher has been identified by the Forest Service as a species of local viability concern (Stephenson and Calcarone 1999) and a SBNF Watchlist species. In the San Bernardino Mountains, it is found along the northern slope in areas east of Baldwin Lake and Arrastre Creek during the summer. They migrate out of the area for the winter.

In southern California, breeding gray flycatchers are primarily found in a matrix of pinyon pine (Pinus monophylla) and interior scrub oak (Quercus john-tuckeri) woodland with grassland understory, and in chaparral that includes buckbrush (Ceanothus cuneatus), chamise (Adenostoma fasciculatum), mountain mahogany (Cercocarpus ledifolius) and other shrubs. During the winter, gray flycatchers may be found in a variety of xeric habitats throughout southern California and, infrequently, in urban/suburban parks on the coastal plain.

Gray flycatchers take insects in flight or from the ground, foliage, tree bark, and branches. In forested habitats, they are sit-and-wait predators, perching primarily on the lowest branches of large conifers or on top of large shrubs. In open shrub habitats, they often perch on exposed dead branches and twigs of shrubs, sometimes close to ground, and often take prey from the ground.

The type conversion of some areas of pinyon and sagebrush may be affecting this species. Because of small population sizes and the relatively few numbers of breeding locations, gray flycatcher is a species of concern locally in southern California. Local increases in cattle that enhance brown-headed cowbird populations may adversely affect nesting success of gray flycatchers. (Source: USFS 2006 Forest Plan Species Accounts)

This species is a regular breeder in the San Bernardino Mountains and could nest in or near the analysis area. The analysis area and vicinity provide suitable nesting and foraging habitat for this species. Page 153

V-2.5.4.24 Loggerhead Shrike (Lanius ludovicianus) The loggerhead shrike is a CDFW Species of Special Concern and a SBNF Watchlist species. The loggerhead shrike prefers open habitats with scattered shrubs, trees, posts, fences, utility lines, or other perches. Highest density occurs in open-canopied valley foothill hardwood, valley foothill hardwood-conifer, valley foothill riparian, pinyon/juniper, juniper, desert riparian, and Joshua tree habitats. This species commonly use posts, fences, and utility lines as perches. Loggerhead shrikes nest in trees and shrubs, and breeding shrikes typically use isolated trees or large shrubs.

The breeding season of loggerhead shrike generally begins in late January or early February and lasts to July. In non-migratory populations, loggerhead shrikes remain paired during the winter. Loggerhead shrike populations in southern California are non-migratory.

Loggerhead shrikes eat small- to medium-sized animals, including arthropods, birds, amphibians, reptiles, and small mammals; they also eat road-kills and carrion. Loggerhead shrikes hunt from perches such as fences, shrubs, and trees, and kill their vertebrate prey by attacking the nape and tearing the cerebral vertebrae. They often impale their prey on barbed wire and other sharp objects. Loggerhead shrikes forage primarily in the morning. Loggerhead shrikes are strongly territorial and aggressive during the breeding season. (Sources: USFS 2006 Forest Plan Species Accounts; http://www.dfg.ca.gov/biogeodata/cwhr/cawildlife.aspx)

Loggerhead shrikes are known from the project vicinity. This species is a regular breeder in the San Bernardino Mountains and could nest in or near the analysis area. The analysis area and vicinity provide suitable nesting and foraging habitat for this species. Records indicate that this species is a year-round resident and breeder at Cushenbury Springs (Myers 2005; Kielhold 1993); it is also known from Crystal Creek, Dry Canyon, and Blackhawk Mountain (Myers 1988).

V-2.5.4.25 Plumbeous Vireo (Vireo plumbeus) The plumbeous vireo has been identified by the Forest Service as a species of local viability concern (Stephenson and Calcarone 1999) and is a SBNF Watchlist species. Plumbeous vireo has been observed in upper Arrastre Creek on the north side of the San Bernardino Mountains. In southern California, plumbeous vireo breeds in arid woodlands of mature pinyon pine (Pinus quadrifolia), white fir (Abies concolor), ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa), and Jeffrey pine (Pinus jeffreyi), often extending into adjacent riparian growth. The plumbeous vireo apparently prefers warmer, drier forest to cool moist forest. The primary elevational range of plumbeous vireo is 3,750–8,200 feet.

Nests are generally constructed 6–15 feet high in a pine, pinyon, or juniper tree or tall shrub. Breeding season of plumbeous vireo generally begins in late May or early June and lasts through July. The plumbeous vireo takes arthropods almost exclusively during spring and fall, turning to more fruit and plant material in winter. This species is mainly a foliage- and branch-gleaning species, capturing prey items by fly-catching, hover-gleaning, and probing, mostly the outer twigs and foliage of trees and shrubs.

Page 154

Plumbeous vireo is considered a partial, medium-distance migrant. Spring migration runs from mid-April to early June, peaking in May. Fall migration runs early August to mid-October, peaking in September. (Source: USFS 2006 Forest Plan Species Accounts)

This species is a regular breeder in the San Bernardino Mountains and could nest in or near the analysis area. There is suitable nesting and foraging habitat (pinyon woodlands) for the plumbeous vireo in and near the Rattlesnake analysis area. There is a record for solitary vireo (since split out into Cassin’s vireo, plumbeous vireo, and blue-headed vireo) at Cushenbury Springs (Kielhold 1993). It may be Cassin’s vireo or plumbeous vireo. Plumbeous vireos are known from Jacoby Canyon in similar pinyon/juniper habitat.

V-2.5.4.26 Cassin’s Vireo (Vireo cassinii) The Cassin’s vireo has been identified by the Forest Service as a species of local viability concern (Stephenson and Calcarone 1999) and is a SBNF Watchlist species. Cassin's vireo breeds in dry, warm, forested habitats, especially in montane hardwood-conifer, montane hardwood, ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa), and Jeffrey pine (Pinus jeffreyi) forests. It also occurs in riparian and other habitat types.

The Cassin's vireo breeding season begins in mid-May. The nest is a rounded cup built 6–15 feet off the ground. The Cassin's vireo diet comprises approximately 98 percent animal matter (primarily insects) and 2 percent plant matter. This species is mainly a foliage- and branch- gleaning species, capturing prey items by flycatching, hover-gleaning, and probing; it forages primarily on the outer twigs and foliage of trees and shrubs. Cassin's vireos take arthropods during spring and fall, and they eat mostly fruit and plant material in winter.

Cassin’s vireos are migratory and only present in southern California during the breeding season. (Source: USFS 2006 Forest Plan Species Accounts)

This species is a regular breeder in the San Bernardino Mountains and could nest in or near the analysis area. There is suitable nesting and foraging habitat (pinyon woodlands) for Cassin’s vireo in and near the Rattlesnake analysis area. There is a record for solitary vireo (since split out into Cassin’s vireo, plumbeous vireo, and blue-headed vireo) at Cushenbury Springs (Kielhold 1993). It may be Cassin’s vireo or plumbeous vireo.

V-2.5.4.27 Warbling Vireo (Vireo gilvus) The Forest Service identified the warbling vireo as a riparian obligate species of concern (as defined by Partners in Flight) (Stephenson and Calcarone 1999) and is a SBNF Watchlist species. Warbling vireos are primarily associated with mixed deciduous woodlands along streams, lakeshores, ponds, and marshes, but also occasionally in uplands away from water or in mixed hardwood or rarely, pure conifer forests. Suitable habitat usually comprises large trees with a semi-open canopy. Warbling vireo does not appear to be area-sensitive; it often occurs in habitat edges and small, isolated patches of habitat.

The breeding season of the warbling vireo is April to August. Warbling vireos are territorial on the breeding grounds. Warbling vireo migrates annually between its breeding and wintering grounds. Spring migration to the breeding grounds begins in mid-March and lasts until early Page 155

June; fall migration to the wintering grounds begins in mid-August and lasts until late September. During the breeding season, warbling vireos are active primarily during the day; however, they migrate at night.

Warbling vireos forage primarily on arthropods; they also eat fruit during winter. During the breeding season, most foraging occurs within individuals’ territories. Warbling vireos glean insects off twigs and leaves, most frequently in the canopy. (Source: USFS 2006 Forest Plan Species Accounts)

This species is a regular breeder in the San Bernardino Mountains and could nest in or near the analysis area. Coxey Creek, Willow Canyon, and other areas in the vicinity of the project provide suitable nesting and foraging habitat for this species.

V-2.5.4.28 Pinyon Jay (Gymnorhinus cyanocephalus) The pinyon jay has been identified by the Forest Service as a species of local viability concern (Stephenson and Calcarone 1999) and a SBNF Watchlist species. The pinyon jay is known to breed in the northeastern San Bernardino Mountains. In southern California, pinyon jays are found primarily in mature pinyon pine-juniper-yucca woodland on arid mountain slopes and in open montane valleys of sagebrush or grasslands bordered by pinyon pines, junipers, or yellow pines. The breeding season of pinyon jay varies annually depending on the pine nut crop; it begins as early as February and as late as May. Pinyon jays are primarily monogamous and nest in loose colonies. Nests are often widely scattered, but two to three nests may sometimes occur in the same tree.

Flocks apparently exist as separate units, with little exchange between them. They are primarily active during the day. Pine nuts, primarily from pinyon pine, make up the bulk of the pinyon jay diet. Nuts are cached in crevices or in holes dug in the ground. Pinyon jays also eat other seeds, nuts, berries, arthropods, snails, and the eggs and young of other birds. Pinyon jays are not territorial but nest in loose colonies and travel in flocks throughout the year. Pinyon jays do not migrate, but are inclined to nomadic wandering when pine nut crops fail. During cold months, they may descend to lower elevations. (Source: USFS 2006 Forest Plan Species Accounts)

Pinyon jays are known from the project analysis area. This species is a regular breeder in the San Bernardino Mountains and could nest in or near the analysis area. The analysis area and vicinity provide suitable nesting and foraging habitat for this species.

V-2.5.4.29 California Horned Lark (Eremophila alpestris actia) The California horned lark is a SBNF Watchlist species and a CDFW Watchlist species. The California horned lark is a common to abundant resident in a variety of open habitats, usually where trees and large shrubs are absent. It frequents grasslands and other open habitats with low, sparse vegetation. It mostly eats insects, snails, and spiders during breeding season; adds grass and forb seeds and other plant matter to diet at other seasons. They hunt by walking on the ground searching for food. Horned larks build grass-lined nests in cup-shaped depressions on the ground in the open. They breed from March through July. (Source: http://www.dfg.ca. gov/biogeodata/cwhr/cawildlife.aspx)

Page 156

California horned larks are known from the vicinity of the analysis area (Coxey Meadow) and have a high likelihood of occurring in the analysis area. This species is a regular breeder in the San Bernardino Mountains and could nest in or near the analysis area. The analysis area and vicinity provide suitable nesting and foraging habitat for this species. This species is known from Dry Canyon (Myers 1988), and from Cushenbury Springs during the winter (Myers 2005) and breeding season (Kielhold 1993).

V-2.5.4.30 Tree Swallow (Tachycineta bicolor) The tree swallow is a SBNF Watchlist species and was identified by the Forest Service as having a local viability concern. Tree swallows are now a local and increasingly uncommon-to-rare summer resident in southern California. In southern California, tree swallows breed in lowland and foothill riparian habitats near slow moving or standing water. Tree swallows require cavities for nesting; therefore, snags with old woodpecker cavities and artificial nest boxes are important habitat components.

Tree swallows migrate annually between their breeding and wintering grounds. They migrate during the fall to the wintering grounds in Mexico, Cuba, and Central America. The breeding season of tree swallow generally begins in May and lasts to July. Males arrive on the breeding grounds and begin defending a nest cavity shortly before females arrive; pair formation occurs soon after females arrive at the breeding grounds. Nest construction (in a cavity) typically occurs in late April–early May.

Tree swallows feed aerially, primarily on flying insects. They often forage over open water, grasslands, or behind windbreaks where concentrations of prey accumulate. Tree swallows forage up to 165 feet in the air, but often swoop down to pick up prey off water and vegetation. Their diet is approximately 80 percent insects (including flies, beetles, ants, damselflies, and grasshoppers) and 20 percent berries and seeds.

Historically, tree swallows were common breeders throughout southwestern California. However, the southern California breeding population has declined. The decline of the tree swallow breeding population in southern California is attributed to the loss of riparian habitat; selective removal of snags with cavities that serve as nesting sites; and the rapid increase in the European starling population, which has increased competition for these nesting sites. Tree swallows are also susceptible to pollutants such as PCBs and DDE. (Source: USFS 2006 Forest Plan Species Accounts)

This species is a regular breeder in the San Bernardino Mountains and could nest in or near the analysis area. The analysis area and vicinity provide suitable nesting and foraging habitat for this species.

V-2.5.4.31 Swainson’s Thrush (Catharus ustulatus oedicus) Swainson’s thrush has been identified as a Riparian Obligate Species of Concern (as defined by Partners in Flight) (Stephenson and Calcarone 1999) and a SBNF Watchlist species. In southern California, breeding Swainson's thrushes are restricted to low-elevation deciduous riparian woodlands, especially with dense thickets of willow (Salix spp.), alder (Alnus spp.), and other hardwoods. The breeding season of Swainson's thrush generally begins in April and can Page 157

last to August. Swainson's thrushes migrate annually between North America (breeding grounds) and the neotropics (wintering grounds). For populations that breed in southern California, spring migration from the wintering grounds begins in mid-April and lasts to late May; fall migration from the breeding grounds begins in early September and lasts to early October. Males are highly territorial during the breeding season.

The diet of Swainson's thrush consists of berries, including elderberries (Sambucus spp.), blackberries (Rubus spp.), huckleberries (Vaccinium spp.), wild grape and other fruits; and insects, including beetles, caterpillars, ants, flies, grasshoppers, and true bugs. They glean insects off leaves, probe the leaf litter, hover-glean, and lunge and sally for insects. Swainson's thrushes often perch on low branches of trees and attack their prey in the leaf litter.

Riparian habitat has been affected throughout California by development, recreational use, water diversion, grazing, wildland fire, and unauthorized vehicles. (Source: USFS 2006 Forest Plan Species Accounts)

Swainson’s thrushes have been recorded at Cushenbury Springs (Kielhold 1993) and Jacoby Canyon (SBNF records) which have similar habitat to areas of the Rattlesnake project. This species is a regular breeder in the San Bernardino Mountains and could nest in or near the analysis area. The analysis area and vicinity provide suitable nesting and foraging habitat for this species.

V-2.5.4.32 Hermit Thrush (Catharus guttatus) The hermit thrush is a SBNF Watchlist species and was identified by the Forest Service as a species with a local viability concern. Throughout the species' breeding range, hermit thrush occupies a broad spectrum of forested and edge habitats. In southern California, hermit thrush breeds primarily in forests dominated by white fir (Abies concolor) and other high-elevation conifers, and is usually found on steep, north-facing slopes.

Hermit thrushes nest on the ground, usually in a small depression, or occasionally a few feet up in low conifer branches. Nests are typically constructed on or within 8 feet of the ground in small conifers or shrubs with ground cover. The nest is a compact cup of course grasses, ferns, bark strips, moss, weeds, or plant fibers, and is lined with mud and plant material. Breeding begins in early to mid-May.

The hermit thrush is considered a terrestrial or bush-gleaning omnivore. During the breeding season, hermit thrushes take mostly animal matter, especially insects and other small invertebrates. In migration and on the wintering grounds, the diet is supplemented with a wide range of small fruits. Invertebrate food items are mostly ants, beetles, caterpillars, wasps, bees, bugs, grasshoppers, flies, and spiders; fruit is mostly berries, including holly, wild cherry, mistletoe, blueberry, pokeberry, elderberry, blackberry, dogwood, grape, and poison ivy.

The hermit thrush is a local species of concern because its breeding population in southern California is small, disjunct, and primarily restricted to high-elevation conifer forests. Stand- replacing wildland fire in dense montane conifer forests is probably the biggest threat to hermit thrushes. (Source: USFS 2006 Forest Plan Species Accounts) Page 158

This species is a regular breeder in the San Bernardino Mountains and could nest in or near the analysis area. The analysis area and vicinity provide suitable nesting and foraging habitat for this species.

V-2.5.4.33 Virginia’s Warbler (Vermivora virginiae) Virginia’s warbler is a SBNF Watchlist species and a CDFW Watchlist species. Breeding has been documented several times on the San Bernardino National Forest at elevations of 6,900 feet (along Arrastre Creek and at 6,000 feet along the South Fork of the Santa Ana River in the San Bernardino Mountains. Virginia's warbler typically breeds in dense brush on relatively steep mountain slopes where there is intermixed or adjacent taller growth such as pinyon pine (Pinus monophylla), yellow pines, Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii), Gambel oak (Quercus gambelli), or aspen (Populus tremuloides). In southern California, Virginia's warbler occupies understory scrub or open brushfields (e.g., mountain mahogany, manzanita, and serviceberry) within arid coniferous forest.

The breeding season of the Virginia's warbler generally begins in May and lasts to July. Nests are built on the ground on steep slopes in a hollow or under a clump of vegetation. Males are highly territorial during the breeding season. Virginia's warbler territories often border natural boundaries such as coniferous forest edges or canyon walls.

Virginia's warblers forage exclusively on arthropods; they glean or hover-glean prey from leaves and sallies for flying insects. On its wintering grounds, Virginia's warblers often probe into flowers and buds.

Virginia's warblers migrate annually between breeding and wintering grounds. Spring migration to the breeding grounds begins in late March and lasts to late May. Fall migration to the wintering grounds begins in mid-August and lasts to mid-October. (Source: USFS 2006 Forest Plan Species Accounts)

This species is not a regular breeder in the San Bernardino Mountains. Virginia warbler has been detected in Jacoby Canyon (SBNF records) which has similar habitat to areas within the project boundary. There is suitable nesting and foraging habitat for Virginia’s warblers in the analysis area and in the Coxey Creek drainage.

V-2.5.4.34 Yellow Warbler (Dendroica petechia brewsteri) Yellow warbler is a CDFW Species of Special Concern and is a SBNF Watchlist species. In southern California, yellow warblers breed in riparian woodlands in the lowlands and foothill canyons. They typically occur in riparian forests that contain cottonwoods, sycamores, willows, or alders. The breeding season of yellow warbler generally begins in May and can last to August. Yellow warblers are highly territorial on both the breeding and wintering grounds.

Yellow warblers feed primarily on arthropods, and rarely on wild fruit. Much of the diet consists of bees, wasps, caterpillars, flies, midges, beetles, and true bugs. Yellow warblers actively glean insects from leaves and occasionally sally to capture flying insects. During winter in southern California, some individuals feed on nectar and pollen. Page 159

Yellow warblers migrate annually between North America (breeding grounds) and the neotropics (wintering grounds). For populations that breed in southern California, spring migration from the wintering grounds occurs late March–late May; fall migration from the breeding grounds begins in August and lasts until mid-October. (Source: USFS 2006 Forest Plan Species Accounts)

This species is a regular breeder in the San Bernardino Mountains. Yellow warblers are known from Coxey and Holcomb creeks adjacent to the analysis area. The analysis area and vicinity provide suitable nesting and foraging habitat for this species.

V-2.5.4.35 MacGillivray's Warbler (Oporornis tolmiei) MacGillivray’s warbler has been identified by the Forest Service as a local viability concern (Stephenson and Calcarone 1999) and is a SBNF Watchlist species. In the San Bernardino Mountains, they are known to nest at Bluff Lake and Metcalf Meadows. In the southern portion of its breeding range, including southern California, MacGillivray's warbler occurs in willow thickets and other brushy, montane riparian areas in conifer forests at elevations above 6,000 feet. This species requires moderate cover and thick understory vegetation for nesting.

The breeding season of MacGillivray's warbler generally begins in May and lasts to August. MacGillivray's warblers are strongly territorial and aggressive during the breeding season. MacGillivray's warblers eat insects during the breeding season in California; food items include true bugs, leaf hoppers, beetles, bees, wasps, and ants. MacGillivray's warblers glean insects on the ground or from leaves near the ground. MacGillivray's warblers migrate annually between their breeding and wintering grounds. The spring migration to the breeding grounds begins in March and lasts to June, peaking April–May. Fall migration to the wintering grounds generally begins in July and lasts to November, peaking August–October. (Source: USFS 2006 Forest Plan Species Accounts)

This species is a regular breeder in the San Bernardino Mountains. MacGillivray’s warblers are known from Holcomb Creek. There is suitable nesting and foraging habitat for MacGillivray’s warbler in the upper elevations of the analysis area. The analysis area and vicinity provide suitable nesting and foraging habitat for this species.

V-2.5.4.36 Wilson's Warbler (Wilsonia pusilla) The Wilson’s warbler is a SBNF Watchlist species. In the San Gabriel and San Bernardino Mountains, Wilson’s warblers breed in dense willow thickets in high-elevation meadows and riparian areas. In California, nest construction typically begins in early June in the Sierra Nevada and in early to late April in inner-coastal areas. Males aggressively defend breeding territories. Wilson's warblers are generally active during the day; however, they migrate at night. For populations that breed in southern California, spring migration begins in mid-March and lasts to late May; fall migration begins in mid-August and lasts to mid-October.

Wilson's warblers forage primarily on arthropods, including bees, flies, mayflies, spiders, beetles, and caterpillars; they occasionally eat berries. Wilson's warblers forage mostly in shrubs and trees at heights from ground- to canopy-level. Their foraging behavior consists mostly of leaping Page 160

vertically to glean insects from the bottoms of leaves; they also sally, hover-glean, and glean while perched on twigs. (Source: USFS 2006 Forest Plan Species Accounts)

This species is a regular breeder in the San Bernardino Mountains. Wilson’s warblers have been recorded at Holcomb Creek and Coxey Creek. There is suitable nesting and foraging habitat for the Wilson’s warblers in analysis area.

V-2.5.4.37 Black-Chinned Sparrow (Spizella atrogularis) The black-chinned sparrow is a SBNF Watchlist species and a USFWS Bird of Conservation Concern. The black-chinned sparrow is a summer resident in southern California, breeding locally on arid mountain slopes of southern California. It occurs mostly on sloping ground in mixed chaparral, chamise-redshank chaparral, sagebrush, and similar brushy habitats, including those in understory of sparse pinyon-juniper, juniper, and other conifer habitats.

Black-chinned sparrows apparently feed on seeds, insects, and fruits associated with shrubs, gleaning on ground beneath shrubs and in shrubs. They find cover in tall sagebrush, chaparral, or other shrubs with similar structure. Their nests are a loosely constructed cup of dry grass and forb stems, lined with finer grasses, plant fibers, hairs, feathers, usually concealed in dense foliage of a shrub 1-3 feet above ground.

Breeding season is April into early August, with a peak in May and June. They may breed in loose colonies. They usually arrive in California in April and depart in August or September. (Source: http://www.dfg.ca.gov/biogeodata/cwhr/cawildlife.aspx)

This species is a regular breeder in the San Bernardino Mountains. Black-chinned sparrows have been observed in Crystal Creek, Dry Canyon, and in Jacoby Canyon which have similar habitat to areas within the analysis area. There is suitable nesting and foraging habitat for black-chinned sparrows in and near the analysis area.

V-2.5.4.38 Lincoln's Sparrow (Melospiza lincolnii) The Forest Service has identified Lincoln’s sparrow as a local viability concern (Stephenson and Calcarone 1999) and is a SBNF Watchlist species. In southern California, Lincoln's sparrows breed in wet montane meadows with typical vegetation components that include corn lily (Veratrum sp.), sedges (Carex spp.), low willows (Salix spp.), thick bushes near marshy ground, and tall grass. Generally, Lincoln's sparrows frequent boggy, moss-dominated habitats where shrub cover is dense. Habitats used in migration are typically riparian sites with abundant shrub cover. Migrating individuals also use marshes, brushy forest edge, urban settings, weedy fields, hedgerows, and blackberry (Rubus spp.) thickets. Winter habitats include freshwater sites, savanna, arid subtropical scrub, weedy pastures, and brushy fields.

Lincoln's sparrow nests are small cups built on the ground under grassy or weedy clumps in shrubby growth and forest edge. The breeding season lasts from late May or mid-June until mid- August. Lincoln's sparrows are territorial, and males define their territories using conspicuous trees and shrubs as singing perches. Lincoln's sparrows are considered a short- to long-distance migrant, with movements in spring commencing from mid-April to early June and peaking in May; fall migration lasts from early September to mid-October, peaking in late September. Page 161

Lincoln's sparrows eat seeds, insects, millipedes, and other small invertebrates. During the breeding season they take mostly animal foods, including insect larvae and adults of Diptera, Lepidoptera, Homoptera, Coleoptera, Ephimeroptera, and Araneae. The winter diet consists almost entirely of small seeds. Seeds and invertebrates are gleaned from the ground and from low plants, usually under cover of shrubs or thick vegetation. Lincoln's sparrows occasionally scratch the ground or leaf-litter in search of food, and will rarely hawk insects in mid-air. (Source: USFS 2006 Forest Plan Species Accounts)

This species is a regular breeder in the San Bernardino Mountains. Lincoln’s sparrows are known to nest at Bluff Lake and Metcalf Meadows near Big Bear Lake. There is suitable nesting and foraging habitat for this species in Coxey Meadow adjacent to the analysis area. Nesting is unlikely within the analysis area but foraging may occur if nesting occurs nearby.

V-2.5.4.39 Lawrence's Goldfinch (Carduelis lawrencei) The Forest Service has identified Lawrence’s goldfinch as a riparian species of concern (Stephenson and Calcarone 1999), it is a SBNF Watchlist species, and a USFWS Bird of Conservation Concern. Lawrence’s goldfinches breed in a variety of habitats in southern California, including blue oak savanna, chaparral, riparian woodland, desert oases, pinyon- juniper woodland, and mixed coniferous-oak forest. Lawrence's goldfinch generally migrates short distances to its wintering grounds in the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico.

Components of nesting habitat typically include arid, open woodlands with adjacent chaparral or brushy areas; tall, weedy fields; and a nearby water source. The breeding season for Lawrence's goldfinch begins as early as late May and can last into September, although peak activity occurs from late April until August. Nests are typically constructed on the outer branches of a tree, usually an oak. Both male and female Lawrence's goldfinches defend territories only during the breeding season and mostly against conspecific intruders.

Lawrence's goldfinches forage on seeds, with a predilection for those of native plants, primarily of fiddleneck (Amsinckia spp.) during the spring and chamise (Adenostoma fasciculatum), annual grasses, mistletoe (Phoradendron spp.), coffeeberry (Rhamnus californica), and possibly star- thistle (Centaurea spp.) during other seasons. (Source: USFS 2006 Forest Plan Species Accounts)

This species is a regular breeder in the San Bernardino Mountains. Lawrence’s goldfinches are known to occur near the analysis area (Coxey Meadow area) and have a high likelihood of occurring in the analysis area. Suitable nesting and foraging habitat occurs for this species in the analysis area and vicinity.

V-2.5.4.40 Summary of Potential Effects to Birds The Proposed Action, No Action, and Alternative 3could potentially affect birds using the analysis area in four ways: a) Loss/degradation of areas suitable for breeding/nesting, foraging, sheltering, and migration stopovers. See Parts II-3.2.5 II-3.2.6 II-3.2.1 II-3.2.9, and II-3.2.11 for Page 162

discussions of potential effects. b) Disturbance to birds in and near the analysis area as a result of the use/maintenance of the trail system (see Part II-3.2.7 c) Death and injury of birds in and near the analysis area (see Part II-3.2.8 d) Beneficial effects as a result of closure/restoration of unauthorized routes (see Part II- 3.2.12).

The Design Features include several measures to help limit the potential for disturbance of nesting birds and raptors as a result of project activities. Surveys would be conducted prior to ground clearing activities to locate and avoid nesting birds. The types and degree of effects from the Proposed Action and Alternative 3 would be similar. The Proposed Action and Alternative 3 would be expected to have fewer effects due to a reduction in trail density and relocation of trails from higher quality habitat.

V-2.5.5 – SBNF Watchlist Mammals A number of SBNF Watchlist mammals are known from or near the analysis area (Forest Service observations and records, SBNF “All Species” GIS layer, SBCM records, CNDDB) (Appendix A) or have a high potential to occur there due to presence of suitable habitat.

V-2.5.5.1 Bats There are known occurrences of several Watchlist bat species on the North Slope and in similar habitat within a few miles of the analysis area. The analysis area has potential to support these species as well as some other species for which suitable habitat exists.

V-2.5.5.1.1 Western Small-Footed Myotis (Myotis ciliolabrum) The western small-footed myotis is a SBNF Watchlist species, a BLM Sensitive species, and a Western Bat Working Group Medium Priority species. The western small-footed myotis rears its young in cliff-face crevices, erosion cavities, and beneath rocks on the ground. Some females care for their pups alone, while others form small groups. These bats can also be found hibernating in caves or mines, but little else is known about them; they are among America's least-studied animals (BCI website).

Western small-footed myotis bats have been detected at Met mast 2366 on BLM just north of the analysis area, Jacoby Canyon, and near the Big Bear landfill (SBCM surveys 2006) in similar pinyon/juniper habitat. They are known occur in the analysis area.

V-2.5.5.1.2 Long-Eared Myotis (Myotis evotis) Long-eared myotis is a SBNF Watchlist species, BLM Sensitive species, and a Western Bat Working Group Medium Priority species. Long-eared myotis are found predominantly in coniferous forests, typically only at higher elevations in southern areas (between 7,000 and 8,500 feet). They roost in tree cavities and beneath exfoliating bark in both living trees and dead snags. Pregnant long-eared myotis often roost at ground level in rock crevices, fallen logs, and even in the crevices of sawed-off stumps, but they cannot rear young in such vulnerable locations. Only one other western forest bat has been found regularly roosting at ground level, the western small- footed myotis. Long-eared myotis capture prey in flight, but also glean stationary insects from foliage or the ground (BCI website). Page 163

Long-eared myotis bats have been detected at Jacoby Canyon, (SBCM surveys 2006), Met mast 2366 on BLM just north of the analysis area, and Wright Mine (SBNF surveys 1998) in similar pinyon/juniper habitat. They occur in the analysis area.

V-2.5.5.1.3 Little Brown Myotis (Myotis lucifugus) The little brown myotis is a SBNF Watchlist species. The San Bernardino Mountains population has been identified as a Western Bat Working Group Medium Priority species. In the Western U.S., the little brown myotis is found mainly in mountainous and riparian areas in a wide variety of forest habitats; from tree-lined xeric-scrub to aspen meadows. This species is especially associated with humans, often forming nursery colonies containing hundreds or thousands of individuals in buildings, attics, and other man-made structures. In addition to day roosts in tree cavities and crevices, little brown myotis seem quite dependent upon roosts which provide safe havens from predators that are close to foraging grounds. Little brown myotis forage over water where their diet consists of aquatic insects, mainly midges, mosquitoes, mayflies, and caddisflies. They also feed over forest trails, cliff faces, meadows, and farmland where they consume a wide variety of insects, from moths and beetles to crane flies (BCI website).

Little brown myotis bats have been detected at Met mast 2366 on BLM just north of the analysis area, Cactus Flats (SBCM surveys 2006) in similar pinyon/juniper habitat and at Cushenbury Springs (Kielhold 1993). They are known occur in the analysis area.

V-2.5.5.1.4 Long-Legged Myotis (Myotis volans) Long-legged myotis is a SBNF Watchlist species and a Western Bat Working Group High Priority species. Long-legged myotis are especially dependent on wooded habitats from pinyon- juniper to coniferous forests, usually at elevations of 4,000 to 9,000 feet. Radio-tracking studies have identified maternity roosts beneath bark and in other cavities. Most nursery colonies live in at least 100 year-old trees that provide crevices or exfoliating bark. Long-legged myotis are typically located in openings or along forest edges where they receive a large amount of daily sun. Though maternity colonies are most often formed in tree cavities or under loose bark, they also are found in rock crevices, cliffs, and buildings. Long-legged myotis forage over ponds, streams, water tanks, and in forest clearings, often on moths (BCI website).

Long-legged myotis bats have been detected at Met mast 2366 on BLM just north of the analysis area, Jacoby Canyon and Cactus Flats (SBCM surveys 2006) in similar pinyon/juniper habitat and at Cushenbury Springs (Kielhold 1993). They are known occur in the analysis area.

V-2.5.5.1.5 Yuma Myotis (Myotis yumanensis) Yuma myotis is a SBNF Watchlist species and a Western Bat Working Group Low-Medium Priority species. Occasionally roosting in mines or caves, Yuma myotis are most often found in buildings or bridges. Single males also sometimes roost in abandoned cliff swallow nests. Tree cavities are used for most nursery roosts. These bats typically forage over water in forested areas (BCI website).

Yuma myotis have been detected at Met mast 2366 on BLM just north of the analysis area, Cushenbury Springs (Kielhold 1993). They are known to occur in the analysis area. Page 164

V-2.5.5.1.6 Spotted Bat (Euderma maculatum) The spotted bat is a SBNF Watchlist species, a CDFW Species of Special Concern, a BLM Sensitive species, and a Western Bat Working Group High Priority species. Spotted bats are found in a variety of habitats ranging from below sea level desert, sagebrush, montane forests and up to high-elevation coniferous forests. This includes foraging habitat in forest openings, pinyon juniper woodlands, large riverine/riparian habitats, and riparian habitat associated with small to mid-sized streams in narrow canyons, wetlands, meadows, and old agricultural fields. They are known from elevations between 3,500–4,000 feet in the Sierra Nevada, but one or more individuals have been heard at several sites up to 8,500 feet.

The spotted bat is rare, but could be anywhere suitable cliff habitat is found. They are closely associated with rock cliffs, where they roost in crevices. The abundance and distribution of suitable cliff habitats may limit the distribution of this species. Mines and caves may also be used during winter. Roost sites are often located in the vicinity of open water. Spotted bats hibernate but occasionally become active during the winter. They subsist almost entirely on moths, foraging over meadows, along forest edges, and in open woodlands. They usually forage above the canopy or above the ground. They may move as far as 6 miles between day roost and feeding areas. Spotted bats are typically solitary, roosting and foraging alone. Females give birth to one young/year between June and July.

Spotted bats have been detected at Cactus Flats (SBCM surveys 2006) in similar pinyon/juniper habitat. They are likely to occur in the analysis area.

V-2.5.5.1.7 Pocketed Free-Tailed Bat (Nyctinomops femerosaccus) The pocketed free-tailed bat is a SBNF Watchlist species, a CDFW Species of Special Concern, and a Western Bat Working Group Medium Priority species. Pocketed free-tailed bats live in pinyon/juniper woodlands, and desert habitats. They roost in crevices high on cliff faces of rugged canyons and must drop from the roost site to gain flight. Nursery colonies are relatively small (usually fewer than 100 individuals) and located in rock crevices, caverns/mines, and buildings. They forage over ponds, streams, or arid desert habitat, feeding on flying insects (Zeiner et al. 1990).

Pocketed free-tailed bats have been detected at Cushenbury Springs (Kielhold 1993). Suitable habitat occurs at the project site and it is likely to occur.

V-2.5.5.1.8 Western Bonneted Bat (Eumops perotis californicus) The western bonneted bat is a SBNF Watchlist species, a CDFW Species of Special Concern and a Western Bat Working Group High Priority species. Western bonneted bats roost in cliff-face crevices and feed high above the ground. They are rarely seen and approach the ground only at a few select drinking sites. This bat is severely limited by available drinking water. Its long, narrow wings preclude it from drinking at ponds less than 100 feet long (Source: http://www.batcon.org/index.php/all-about-bats/species-profiles.html).

Page 165

Western bonneted bats have been detected at Cactus Flats in pinyon/juniper habitat (SBNF records) and at Cushenbury Springs (Kielhold 1993). Suitable habitat occurs at the project site and it is likely to occur.

V-2.5.5.1.9 Potential Effects for Bat Species Suitable foraging habitat exists for all of the above bat species. In general, the above-mentioned bats forage on insects in or above riparian areas, open areas, and on vegetation directly by gleaning. All of the above species use rock outcrops and cliffs for roosting, hibernating, and breeding. A few use tree cavities for roost sites.

Roost/maternity sites for cliff or rocky outcrop roosting species (i.e., small-footed myotis, spotted bat, western bonneted bat) would not be directly affected by the proposed project. Small- footed myotis are known to rear young under rocks on the ground. This roost habitat could be affected by trail construction, reroutes, and restoration. For the species that roost in trees (i.e., little brown myotis, long-legged myotis, long-eared myotis, and Yuma myotis), there may be some minor effects to habitat as hazard trees within falling distance of the trail system are removed.

Mortality of bats living beneath exfoliating bark or in snags/cavities would occur if animals were not flushed prior to tree-felling. The risk would be highest during summer months for young-of- the year that are not yet competent fliers.

OHV use at night may produce noise that could interfere with important vocalizations that are used for communicating between colony members and territorial disputes. This might interfere with courtship, breeding, and foraging success.

V-2.5.5.2 San Bernardino Golden-Mantled Ground Squirrel (Spermophilus lateralis bernardinus) The golden-mantled ground squirrel is a SBNF Watchlist species. The San Bernardino golden- mantled ground squirrel is a locally-endemic subspecies with few CDFW records. Forest Service records for golden-mantled ground squirrel for the San Bernardino Mountains include: Sugarloaf Mountain, Bear Mountain ski area, Snow Summit ski area, San Gorgonio Peak, the south fork of the Santa Ana River, Holcomb Valley, Snow Valley recreation residence tract, Fawnskin, Green Valley Lake (FS records, R. Eliason, pers. observ.).

Golden-mantled ground squirrels inhabit a wide variety of montane habitats from the upper edge of the pinyon belt to above timberline. They are most common in open, well-illuminated forests with a mix of tall trees, brush, and open ground supporting herbaceous plants. Golden-mantled ground squirrels have also been found in sagebrush and meadow habitats with abundant rocks for shelter.

Golden-mantled ground squirrels dig their burrows beneath rocks, stumps, and logs; in banks; along washes; at the base of trees; and beneath buildings. They use these burrows for resting, hibernation, shelter, rearing of young, and escape from predators. Hollowed-out logs, stumps, and rock piles also provide shelter and protection while foraging. Golden-mantled ground

Page 166

squirrels breed shortly after they emerge from hibernation, usually in March or April, but sometimes as late as May. (Source: USFW 2006 Forest Plan Species Accounts)

Golden-mantled ground squirrels are known from the vicinity of the analysis area and are very likely to occur throughout it.

Death or injury is unlikely except for collisions with OHVs. If a den were discovered during pre-work surveys or implementation, the Design Features allow for the den to be flagged for avoidance during trail construction ore restoration, further reducing the risk to individuals. Noise disturbance associated with trail construction, restoration, and use/maintenance could cause adults to abandon young and denning areas resulting abandonment of the area. See Part II-3.2.7 for a discussion of the effects of disturbance.

Design Features that provide for retention or protection of logs, snags, and rock piles would help protect some of these important habitat components throughout most of the analysis area. User- created trails that would be restored under the Proposed Action and Alternative 3 could become suitable habitat for this species.

V-2.5.5.3 Lodgepole Chipmunk (Tamias speciosus speciosus) The lodgepole chipmunk is a SBNF Watchlist species. The lodgepole chipmunk is found at elevations of 4,921–9,843 feet in the Transition, Canadian, and Hudsonian life zones of California. The distribution of the southern California population of lodgepole chipmunk is discontinuous. This taxon historically occurred on the upper slopes of the San Josito, San Jacinto, San Bernardino, San Gabriel, and Piute Mountains of southern California, but has apparently been extirpated from the San Jacinto Mountains.

Records for the SBNF for lodgepole chipmunk include Whitewater Creek (7,500 feet), Mt. San Bernardino, Fawnskin, Sugarloaf, Bear Mountain and Snow Summit Ski Resorts, Camp Angelus, and Dry Lake (9,000 feet) in the San Gorgonio Wilderness Area.

Throughout their range, lodgepole chipmunks are generally found in open-canopy forests with a mix of shrubs and trees. Lodgepole chipmunks typically occur in habitats with approximately 40% vegetation cover, numerous large boulders, and some open ground. They are common in lodgepole pine forests, but also occur in open-canopy stages of other forest habitats including white fir, Jeffrey pine, and mixed conifer. They appear to avoid pure stands of conifers, preferring an understory shrub component. Lodgepole chipmunks are more arboreal than most other species of chipmunks. They use trees for refuge, observation posts, and nests. They also use cavities in logs, snags and stumps, and underground burrows. (Source: USFS 2006 Forest Plan).

This species is known from the analysis area as well as surrounding areas. Habitat in the analysis area is at the northern end of their distribution in this part of the San Bernardino Mountains and transitions out of suitability to the north on the desert-facing slopes. The effects for lodgepole chipmunks are similar to that described above for golden-mantled ground squirrel.

Page 167

V-2.5.5.4 San Diego Pocket Mouse (Chaetodipus fallax fallax) The San Diego pocket mouse is a CDFW Species of Special Concern and is a SBNF Watchlist species. The historical and present distribution of the San Diego pocket mouse is restricted to San Diego, Riverside, and San Bernardino Counties in southern California. The range extends from the eastern San Gabriel Mountains in the interior to near San Onofre on the coast, and south into Baja California. The elevational range of this species extends from sea level in the coastal portion of its range to 4,500 feet the Santa Rosa Mountains in Riverside County and 6,000 feet at Cactus Flat on the north side of the San Bernardino Mountains in San Bernardino County.

A broad range of habitats appears to be occupied on the desert side of the mountains. The San Diego pocket mouse has been found in pinyon-juniper woodland, desert scrub, rocky slopes, and agave-ocotillo habitat. On desert slopes of the eastern San Gabriel Mountains, the species' distribution was closely correlated with the presence of yucca, particularly on dry, rocky southern slopes. The availability of shelter provided by rocky slopes or habitats may increase species abundance. The San Diego pocket mouse generally exhibits a strong microhabitat affinity for moderately gravelly and rocky substrates.

The breeding period for San Diego pocket mouse is generally March-May. The average litter size for this species is four, and the gestation period is 24-26 days. San Diego pocket mice are primarily nocturnal and are active year-round with reduced surface activity during cold weather. They excavate burrows in gravelly or sandy soils for daytime resting, predator escape, and care of young. Pocket mice tend to select microhabitats with shrub or tree canopy cover or rocky areas for nocturnal foraging bouts. San Diego pocket mice forage for seeds of forbs, grasses, and shrubs, exhibiting a low to moderate preference for forb and shrub seeds and a high preference for grass seed. Seeds are transported in cheek pouches and stored in and around the burrow. San Diego pocket mice occasionally eat insects. Free water is apparently not necessary for survival. San Diego pocket mouse appears to be sensitive to habitat fragmentation and degradation. (Source: USFS 2006 Forest Plan)

San Diego pocket mice are known from Arrastre Canyon in the analysis area (CNDDB record from 1976). They are also known Cactus Flats/Lone Valley area (SBCM and CNDDB records 2002, 2006), Silver Creek (CNDDB record from 1954), and Cushenbury Springs (Kielhold 1993) in similar habitats to what is found in the analysis area. The rocky slopes in pinyon- juniper woodland and the desert transition habitat are highly suitable for this species.

The effects for San Diego pocket mice are similar to that described above for golden-mantled ground squirrel.

V-2.5.5.5 Southern Grasshopper Mouse (Onchomys torridus ramona) The southern grasshopper mouse is a SBNF Watchlist species and a CDFW Species of Special Concern. Southern grasshopper mice are found in the Mojave Desert and southern Central Valley of California. Alkali desert scrub and desert scrub habitats are preferred, with somewhat lower densities expected in other desert habitats, including succulent shrub, wash, and riparian areas. It also occurs in coastal scrub, mixed chaparral, sagebrush, low sage, and bitterbrush habitats. This species is uncommon in valley foothill and montane riparian, and in a variety of other habitats. They prefer low to moderate shrub cover. Nests are constructed in burrows abandoned by other Page 168

rodents or may be excavated. They frequent desert areas with friable soils for digging. Grasshopper mice feed almost exclusively on arthropods, especially scorpions and orthopteran insects. Vertebrates (salamanders, lizards, frogs, and small mammals) and seeds are minor components of the diet.

Grasshopper mince are active year-round and are nocturnal. Peak breeding is from May to July, but may start in January under ideal conditions, and may continue year-round. Gestation is 27- 30 days. Litter size averages 4 young (range 2-6). They produce as many as 6 litters per year in the wild. Both males and females care for the young. (Source: http://www.dfg.ca.gov/biogeodata/cwhr/cawildlife.aspx).

Southern grasshopper mice are known from Cushenbury Springs (Kielhold 1993). This species may occur along trails in the northern sections of the project. The effects for southern grasshopper mice are similar to that described above for golden-mantled ground squirrel.

V-2.5.5.6 San Diego Desert Woodrat (Neotoma lepida intermedia) The San Diego desert woodrat is a CDFW Species of Special Concern and is a SBNF Watchlist species. Desert woodrats commonly inhabit Joshua tree woodlands, pinyon-juniper woodlands, mixed chaparral, sagebrush, and desert habitats. In the Little San Bernardino Mountains, desert woodrats occupy sandy deserts and boulder outcrops. They are found from sea level to 8500 feet in elevation.

Desert woodrats have been observed actively avoiding open areas that did not provide adequate refuge sites. In rocky outcrops, desert woodrats are known to construct dens in the cracks between boulders using sticks, yucca leaves, tin cans, and other assorted materials. Desert woodrats appear to preferentially occupy dens in habitats with large-sized rocks and boulders because they provide better predator protection. In general, desert woodrats breed from late October or November through April, and females can produce up to four litters of two to four young each year. The gestation period is 30–36 days. Adult desert woodrats are relatively sedentary and are unlikely to disperse to new areas. However, natal site dispersal in the eastern Mojave Desert appears to be greater for male desert woodrats.

Like other woodrats, they construct above-ground houses of twigs, sticks, cactus parts, and rocks. The house is usually built against a rock crevice, at the base of a bush, or in the lower branches of a tree/shrub. Houses are used for breeding, food caching, and shelter.

Desert woodrats exhibit nocturnal foraging behavior; any diurnal activity is restricted to the den site. Desert woodrats are primarily herbivorous and rely on a continuous supply of green vegetation for food and water. They do not appear to be highly selective in the type of vegetation they eat, but may be particular about the parts of each plant species they consume. Desert woodrats do not need to drink water. They are largely dependent upon succulent vegetation such as cactus and agave for moisture, although they can be sustained on creosote year-round. (Sources: USFS 2006 Forest Plan; http://www.dfg.ca.gov/biogeodata/cwhr/cawildlife.aspx).

San Diego desert woodrats are known from Cactus Flats/Lone Valley (SBCM data) in pinyon/juniper woodland habitat. The analysis area is on the edge of the known range of this Page 169

subspecies. The San Diego desert woodrat subspecies may occur in the analysis area due to an abundance of suitable habitat. The potential effects for the San Diego desert woodrat are similar to that described above for golden-mantled ground squirrel.

V-2.5.5.7 Porcupine (Erethizon dorsatum) The Forest Service has identified this species as a local viability concern (Stephenson and Calcarone 1999) and is a SBNF Watchlist species. The porcupine population in California is restricted to the northern Coast, Klamath, and Cascade ranges, and south through the Sierra Nevada. An isolated occurrence has been recorded in the San Bernardino Mountains in southern California. Reported sightings of porcupines in southern California are rare: one historic occurrence was reported from the San Bernardino Mountains in 1906, a road kill in the San Bernardino Mountains in the 1960s, a sighting at Snow Summit Ski Resort in Big Bear Lake in the mid-1990s, and a recent sighting near Bertha Peak in 2013.

In California, porcupines are primarily found in coniferous forests, but across western North America they occur in a wide variety of habitats including pinyon-juniper woodlands, riparian forests, sagebrush, rangelands, and desert chaparral. Porcupines have been known to wander between different habitats and occasionally migrate short to long distances. Porcupines shift their foraging habits between winter and summer. During the winter, they feed primarily on the inner bark of trees and on evergreen needles. In the western portion of their range, porcupines prefer to forage on yellow pine trees. In summer they feed on a variety of food items, including roots, stems, leaves, berries, catkins, seeds, flowers, nuts, riparian vegetation, and grass. In southern California, the current status of the porcupine population is unknown. (Source: USFS 2006 Forest Plan Species Account)

Suitable habitat for porcupines exists in the analysis area. They may occur in the analysis area. The effects for porcupines are similar to that described above for golden-mantled ground squirrel.

V-2.5.5.8 Ringtail (Bassariscus astutus) The Forest Service has identified this species as a local viability concern (Stephenson and Calcarone 1999) and is a SBNF Watchlist species. Ringtails are generally known to occupy brushy and wooded areas along watercourses in foothill and lower montane canyons. The species occurs at elevations from sea level to 8,800 feet. Its principal habitat requirements seem to be den sites among boulders or in hollows of trees and sufficient food in the form of rodents and other small animals. Rocky habitats are apparently preferred. In the San Gabriel Mountains, ringtails occur in canyons in the chaparral belt. Ringtails are similar to raccoons in that they are often found within 0.6 mile of a permanent water source. Unlike raccoons, ringtails reportedly avoid urbanized areas. Ringtail densities can be as high as 27-53 per square mile.

Ringtails produce one litter per year. Dens may be in a hollow tree, a rock pile, a crevice in a cliff, or in abandoned burrows or woodrat nests. Mating occurs in late winter and the litter of three or four young is born in May or June. Ringtail young venture from the den at 45-50 days, and both parents raise the young until August or September, when the young disperse. Ringtails are nocturnal and active year-round. Although primarily carnivorous, ringtails appear to be opportunistic feeders, eating insects, fruits, berries, frogs, birds, rodents (white-footed mouse and Page 170

woodrat) and rabbits. The species forages both on the ground and in trees, usually near but not in water. In summer and fall, the ringtail diet consists primarily of insects, while birds, mammals, and carrion are eaten in the spring and winter. Ringtails ambush their prey and kill by delivering a fatal bite to the neck. (Source: USFS 2006 Forest Plan Species Account)

Ringtails have been observed at Cushenbury Springs (Kielhold 1993) and at wildlife water sources in the Mitsubishi quarry site (Pers. comm. 2013, J&J Restoration). They have potential to occur throughout the analysis area. The effects for ringtails are similar to that described above for golden-mantled ground squirrel.

V-2.5.5.9 American Badger (Taxidea taxus) The American badger is a CDFW Species of Special Concern and is a SBNF Watchlist species. Known localities of badgers in the San Bernardino Mountains are largely in desert montane areas, including Coxey Creek, Burnt Flats, Redonda Ridge, Burnt Flats, and the Big Bear Ranger Station. Additional records for the San Bernardino Mountains include observations of road- killed badgers at Mill Creek Ranger Station, and in the towns of San Bernardino and Colton adjacent to the San Bernardino Mountains.

American badgers occur in a wide variety of open, arid habitats, but are most commonly associated with grasslands, savannas, mountain meadows, and open areas of desert scrub; they are not usually found in mature chaparral. The principal habitat requirements for this species appear to be sufficient food (burrowing rodents), friable soils, and relatively open, uncultivated ground. American badgers are primarily found in areas of low to moderate slope. Burrows are used for denning, escape, and predation on burrowing rodents. Badgers may change dens every day, except during breeding. American badgers are carnivorous and are opportunistic predators, feeding on mammal species such as mice, chipmunks, ground squirrels, gophers, rabbits, and kangaroo rats. They also eat reptiles, insects, birds and their eggs, and carrion. They are nocturnal and diurnal. (Source: USFS 2006 Forest Plan Species Account)

American badgers are known from the vicinity of Coxey Creek. Suitable habitat exists throughout the analysis area and it may occur due to the proximately of known occurrences. The effects for the American badger are similar to that described above for golden-mantled ground squirrel.

V-2.5.5.10 Western Spotted Skunk (Spilogale gracilis) The western spotted skunk is a SBNF Watchlist species. The western spotted skunk is believed to be widespread throughout California, but the present distribution and abundance of this species on NFS lands is not well-understood. In 2008-2009, several spotted skunks were caught on motion-sensor cameras in the Big Bear area. One was observed in near Bluff Mesa (SBCM), one near Van Dusen Canyon (SBCM), and another near Delamar Mountain (Borchert pers. comm.).

These Big Bear area records are all considerably higher in elevation than CDFW’s Wildlife Habitat Relationship’s description of occupied habitat (between sea level and 4,500 feet). Historically, this species was known to occur in rocky canyons on the coastal side of the San Gabriel Mountains and probably occurred in desert slope canyons as well. In other portions of its range, western spotted skunk is commonly found near streams, in canyons, on rocky cliffs, in Page 171

arid valleys, and in a variety of forest and woodland habitats. It has also been reported on ocean beaches and often inhabits old buildings and other artificial structures. The western spotted skunk uses underground burrows, cavities in rocks or trees, and crevices in artificial structures for protection, resting, and rearing of young.

While spotted skunks have not been recorded from the analysis area, there is potential that they may occur in the analysis area. The effects for spotted skunks are similar to that described above for golden-mantled ground squirrel.

V-2.5.5.11 Nelson’s Bighorn Sheep (Ovis canadensis nelsoni) Nelson’s bighorn sheep is a BLM Sensitive species, a CDFW Fully Protected Mammal, was identified by the Forest Service as a local viability concern species (Stephenson and Calcarone 1999), and is a SBNF Watchlist species.

Life History and Baseline: The following information is summarized from the Forest Plan species accounts (USFS 2006) and updated with information from CDFW biologist Jeff Villepique (pers. comm. 2013). Nelson's bighorn sheep in the San Bernardino Mountains are considered to constitute two separate populations: the larger population (San Gorgonio Herd) occurs in the vicinity of Mount San Gorgonio in wilderness; the other population (Cushenbury Herd) occurs on the northern edge of the range in desert-facing canyons (e.g., Furnace, Bousic, Arctic, and Marble Canyons). Desert bighorn sheep inhabit dry, relatively barren, desert mountain ranges throughout North America. Escape terrain and sufficient forage are identified as the most important habitat components for bighorn sheep in these mountains. Escape terrain is defined as steep slopes (80 percent or steeper) with abundant rock outcrops and sparse shrub cover (canopy cover of 30 percent or less). Nelson's bighorn sheep in the San Gabriel Mountains occur at elevations of 3,000-10,064 feet (i.e., to the summit of Mount San Antonio). During the winter and spring, Nelson's bighorn sheep occur primarily in escarpment chaparral in the lower canyons at 3,000-6,000 feet.

The breeding season of Nelson's bighorn sheep exhibits significant plasticity; young may be born as early as December 25 (observed in the San Gorgonio population), and as late as August (inferred from <2 mo. old lamb observed in the Cushenbury population in October; CDFW records). Single lambs (and rarely twins) are born following a six month gestation; however, the timing of breeding varies and is dependent on maternal condition. Such variation is most likely a response to variability in seasonal timing of precipitation, which affects the timing of peak nutrition in available forage species. Female body condition and fertility, in turn, depend upon timing of peak nutrition.

Such environmentally-driven variability is known among Nelson’s bighorn sheep populations. In populations in the Sonoran Desert where most precipitation comes from summer monsoons, lambing most often in November or December; populations in the Mojave Desert where most precipitation falls in winter, are typically born in late winter or early spring. Most models of future climate for southern California predict variation in timing and quantity of precipitation. The winter droughts of 2011-2012 and 2012-2013, combined with above average summer precipitation could be a harbinger of future variability. Empirical observations and predicted

Page 172

climate variability support the potential presence of vulnerable neo-natal bighorn lambs at almost any time of year.

During the first few weeks after giving birth, ewes remain alone with their lambs in steep terrain until they join a nursery group. Lambs are weaned at 3–6 months, and juveniles remain with the ewes through their first or second year. Rams are believed to sexually mature physiologically at 6 months of age, however behavioral constraints preclude mating by juvenile males in the presence of dominant adult males. During the height of the rutting period, mature rams seemed to have little fear of humans and, in the San Gabriel Mountains, made movements of 6 or more miles in search of ewes (CDFW data).

From birth, ewes remain together in "ewe groups." Their gregarious and philopatric behavior limits their dispersal. Genetic data suggest that movement of ewes among populations, while rare, has occurred in the recent past. In contrast to the fidelity that young ewes exhibit toward their maternal ewe group, young rams generally leave the maternal group at 0.5–2 years of age, consorting with other males throughout much of the year. Males and females often select different resources and home ranges throughout much of the year, aggregating through the mating period, but diverging for the majority of the year. This pattern of sexual segregation is well established among Nelson’s and other subspecies of bighorn sheep. Researchers suggest that habitat requirements for males and females may be so different that the sexes should be managed as though they are different species (Bleich et al. 1997).

Genetic and observational data suggests that ram movement among ewe groups is common. Young ewes learn the locations of resources, such as foraging areas, water sources, bedding/resting areas, etc. from their mothers and/or older females in a ewe group and demonstrate a high degree of philopatry to these traditional home ranges throughout their lives. Rams do not exhibit the same site fidelity as ewes and tend to move among ewe groups. Home ranges in one study were found to average 9.8 square miles and 7.8 square miles for rams and ewes, respectively.

Bighorn sheep often migrate between winter and summer ranges, generally moving downslope in winter and spending summer in higher elevation habitats. Water restricts movement of the species during hot summer months.

In general, bighorn sheep feed in the early morning, at midday, and in the evening, lying down and chewing their cud at other times, and bedding down for the evening. Foraging and bedding spots may be used for years. Daily foraging and resting cycles also vary depending on forage quality. Seasonal activity depends on availability of water, forage, and escape terrain. Typically, bighorn sheep congregate near dependable water sources from May through October, when temperatures are highest. This aggregation of individuals also corresponds with breeding activities. Young bighorn sheep learn locations of escape terrain, water sources, and lambing habitat from older individuals in the group.

Until the mid-1990s, there were no documented observations of bighorn in the areas between the Cushenbury and San Gorgonio Populations. In the past, all of the North Slope sightings were to the west of Highway 18, although suitable habitat may exist to the east. It was suspected that Page 173

Arrastre Creek's steep slopes might provide a travel corridor and link between the two populations. A sighting in Arrastre Creek at the crossing with 2N02 a couple of years ago and a skull in Round Valley in 2003 may confirm that linkage. It is not known, however, if these anecdotal reports reflect rare movements by males during the rut, or indicate contiguous habitat sufficient to allow movement by females among the North Slope and the San Gorgonio populations. Although the Granite Peaks of the San Bernardino Mountains may provide suitable habitat, there are no records of bighorn in that area.

The following additional information was derived from a Forest Service records, personal observations and communications, and literature, as cited. The first Forest Service records for bighorn sheep on the North Slope were from May 1975 when personnel from Specialty Minerals Incorporated (formerly Pfizer, Inc.) observed three ewes in Furnace Canyon and using Netthill spring area (Forest Service memo 1975). In 1990, the Forest Service received information of an older sighting from October 1948 when a pair of hunters in upper Arctic Canyon observed six bighorn. At the time, that was reported to be “the most bighorn sheep seen at one time on the North Slope” (Forest Service records 1990).

It is believed that subsistence miners and squatters residing in the north-facing canyons in the 1960s and 1970s regularly poached deer and bighorn sheep, potentially limiting the bighorn sheep population size in the area. By the 1980s, the expansion of the limestone mining operations resulted in large areas of the North Slope being blocked off and becoming inaccessible to the general public. During that time, the Forest Service was also actively discouraging squatting on NFS lands and they were essentially gone by the 1980s (Forest Service records 1990). There is speculation that after that occurred, the North Slope bighorn population was able to expand. By the early 1990s, small subpopulations were regularly observed at all three of the large limestone mining operations and the population size was estimated to be 40-50 animals.

The Cushenbury bighorn sheep herd is likely limited by carrying capacity of the suitable habitat. The suspected population of 40-50 animals during the 1990s may have been the maximum that could be supported by the habitat present on the North Slope. Limited carrying capacity was indicated by prominent “browse lines” on shrubs used as forage by bighorn sheep (Villepique, pers. comm. 2013).

For the Cushenbury herd in the San Bernardino Mountains, the major threats are habitat loss and fragmentation from large scale open pit mining operations; collisions with cars along Highway 18; disease transmission from domestic sheep and goats; predation by feral dogs and mountain lions; death from ingesting balloons, reduced survival due to Psoroptes sp. mite infections; and, effects of drought and wildfire on habitat quality and availability.

Until 2007, the Cushenbury herd was thought to number in the 30s (SBNF records). In October 2007, a herd of domestic sheep and goats was discovered at the top of Crystal Creek by USFS fire personnel mopping up “hot spots” from the Butler II wildfire. Those domestic animals apparently were released by their owner at the base of Crystal Creek, when the owner evacuated the fire, approximately three weeks earlier. Domestic sheep and goats were observed in the vicinity of the old Butterfield quarry and near the communications repeater a full four weeks Page 174

after the start of the Butler II fire, and were likely present in bighorn sheep habitat for one month. A group of 17 uncollared bighorn sheep of mixed sex and age classes had been observed in this area immediately prior to the start of the Butler II fire (Villepique, pers. comm. 2013).

Following this proximate occurrence of domestic sheep and goats, bighorn sheep were not observed in the western portion of the range from 2008 to 2012. All indications are that only a small group of 10-15 bighorn sheep persisted in the Cushenbury range, occupying its east end (primarily east of Marble Cyn), while the western group of bighorn is presumed to have died from diseases transmitted from the domestic sheep and goats. Mass die-offs caused by disease transmission occur regularly in bighorn sheep and are a predictable outcome of contact between domestic and wild sheep.

In fall 2012, several ewes and a young ram were again observed and photographed in the western portion of the range at the OMYA mine. Their composition (including collared animals) was consistent with the movement of animals from the remnant group in the east end of the range, not a reappearance of long-missing bighorn sheep (Villepique, pers. comm. 2013).

The second-most frequent cause of mortality (after the inferred transmission of disease from domestics) is mountain lion predation. Twelve of 24 (50%) of bighorn sheep that were collared between 1995 and 2007, whose cause of mortality was investigated, are known to have been killed by mountain lions. An additional seven are likely to have been killed by mountain lions (with some uncertainty, e.g., feeding sign was evident but cause of mortality could not be established unequivocally). Together, 79% of investigated mortalities are attributed to mountain lion predation. Sustained high levels of predation by mountain lions may have implications for long-term viability of bighorn sheep herds (Hayes et al. 2000).

In 5 of 9 (55%) of mortalities of bighorn sheep investigated in 2007-2009, numerous latex balloons and attached ribbons were discovered in the rumen. All five animals showed unequivocal sign of mountain lion predation as the proximate cause of death, and none appeared malnourished, however, the extent to which balloon or ribbon blockage may have contributed to vulnerability to predation is unknown. Ingestion and subsequent entrapment of balloons in the rumen may have been sub-clinical in nature, with limited negative impact from displacement of digesta, or at the other extreme, animals could have suffered alimentary lacerations as a result of gastric motility, a normal part of rumen digestive process (e.g., eructation), causing the serrated ribbons to act like knives (B. Gonzales, CDFW, personal communication with J. Villepique).

Vulnerability to predation could also have resulted from choking or coughing due to entanglement in the esophagus. In each of those cases, the esophagus and neck where damaged and/or consumed, as is commonly the result of the feeding patterns of mountain lions. Consequently, what, if any, role the ingestion of latex balloons and attached ribbons played in the vulnerability to predation by mountain lions remains unknown.

The ingestion of balloons by ruminants is capable of causing direct mortality through mechanisms mentioned, and is clearly detrimental. The San Bernardino Mountains is frequently a landing area for balloons that have escaped or been released, due to weather patterns and landscape terrain. Biologists believe that bighorn are attracted to, and ingest brightly colored Page 175

balloons, having experienced no selective pressure in their evolutionary history to differentiate novel substances that mimic colors of bright colored forage, beneficial flowers, or fruits.

The Cushenbury bighorn sheep population hosts an endemic infection of Psoroptes, a parasitic mite, causing a condition known as psoroptic mange or psoroptic scabies. They can affect the general health of bighorn sheep. Psoroptes mites can result in lesions in the external ear canal resulting in hearing impairment that may result in increased predation due to the inability to detect predators (Norrix et al. 1995).

Over the past couple of decades, there have been a number of reports of feral or loose dog packs roaming in and near the Cushenbury bighorn sheep herd. An attack by 3 apparently feral dogs on two male bighorn sheep was documented in 2007, with an injured ram observed the following day. The ram was not seen again and is presumed to have been killed by the dogs, which remained in the area for weeks. Predation by dogs on female bighorn sheep may be an additive mortality factor linked to the apparent decline in this herd (Villepique, pers. comm. 2013).

Since 1990, there have been at least two bighorn sheep killed on Highway 18 in Cushenbury Canyon, including a ram in the early 1990s and a collared 2-year-old ewe in November 2008 (Villepique, pers. comm. 2013). Prior to 2006, there were few records of bighorn using the east side of Highway 18; however GPS collars deployed in 2006 and 2007 indicated numerous crossings ( = 10) of Highway 18 among the six GPS-collared females. Because GPS collars were programed to collect data at a frequency of 4–6 hours (longer in practice, because of reduced GPS fix success inside the deep Cushenbury Canyon), these data represent the minimum number of crossings as movements of up to 6 hours duration could go unrecorded. Use of areas east of Highway 18 typically lasted 1–2 days. However, in one instance, several GPS-collared ewes remained east of Highway 18 for 36 days. There may be deficiencies in the habitat quality (e.g., water sources, browse availability, lack of escape terrain, etc.) east of Highway 18, however, systematic habitat evaluations and comparisons have not been conducted.

There is some evidence that groups may be crossing Highway 18 more frequently than in the past and using areas east of Highway 18. Reports from drivers seeing groups instead of individuals seem to be increasing. Additionally, drivers reporting seeing sheep actually crossing the road (instead being seen above or along the road) seem to be more frequent On January 6, 2013, a group of 7 bighorn sheep were observed crossing Highway 18 (SBNF records). On January 3, 2013, a group of ten bighorn sheep were been documented crossing Highway 18, west-east, and observed again on the east side on January 4th. A group was also photographed crossing Highway 18, west-east, by a motorist in June, 2013 (Villepique, pers. comm. 2013).

The Forest Service has a single record of poaching of a bighorn sheep in the mid-1980s in the White Mountain area. A prospector came upon a campsite (probably a subsistence miner as described above) that appeared to have been occupied for some time. A butchered bighorn sheep was hanging from an oak limb. All that remained was the head, suggesting that the animal was taken for food (Forest Service Records 1991).

While the Cushenbury herd of bighorn sheep appear to be tolerate ongoing mining activities on site, this population of sheep is experiencing continual and substantial losses of habitat and Page 176

increasing levels of disturbance as the footprint of quarries and active roads expands along the North Slope distribution. Long-term viability is a concern as a result of the small and isolated nature of this herd. Short-term viability may also be in jeopardy.

The Cushenbury herd is seemingly isolated from other bighorn herds. Genetic studies have indicated that they are most closely linked to the San Gorgonio herd. While SBNF records suggest that there may be occasional movement between the two, the almost complete lack of observations of sheep in between suggests that these movements are likely relatively rare. This level of isolation is problematic genetically. Additionally, it puts the population at a very high risk of extirpation due to natural stochastic events (e.g., heavy snowfall event, predation, landslide) in addition to human caused (e.g., vehicle strike, fall as a result of anthropogenic disturbance). Even the loss of an individual bighorn ewe is significant in small isolated herds. Without occasional movements between subpopulations, the ability for genetic exchange and repopulation of depleted areas is compromised (Bleich 2010). The Cushenbury bighorn population has a relatively low genetic diversity (Epps et al. 2010).

If the Cushenbury herd is only fifteen animals as suspected, the herd may reach a genetic bottleneck where genetic variation is so small that it affects the population’s potential to adapt to environmental conditions.

There is concern that continued habitat fragmentation and disturbance to this herd may, at some point, cause extirpation from or abandonment of the North Slope. Although bighorn sheep have exhibited a certain level of habituation to disturbance, there may be threshold at which those activities significantly interfere with their abilities to forage, escape predators, move between important habitat areas, and/or reproduce.

Biologists are concerned about this population because it is so small and possibly isolated. This places it at a higher risk for extirpation than other local populations. A single episode such as disease, drought resulting in lack of forage or water, a mountain lion targeting bighorn sheep, etc. could have devastating effects to this herd.

Occurrence in the Analysis area: The Cushenbury bighorn sheep herd is currently believed to be about 15 individual animals (Villepique, pers. comm. 2013), down from an estimated 40-50 in the 1990s. CDFW’s tracking studies of the Cushenbury herd have found use by bighorn sheep is mostly east of White Knob (Villepique, pers. comm. 2013).

The steep portions of the analysis area may occasionally be used by bighorn sheep but the current understanding is that the use is very rare (most of it occurs east of White Knob which is east of the analysis area).

Potential Effects: The Proposed Action would not be expected to affect bighorn sheep habitat quality or availability. There may be occasional disturbance effects if bighorn sheep are foraging near one of the proposed trails. Because of the habitat conditions, there is a very low likelihood of bighorn sheep occurring or utilizing the area.

Page 177

A population of fewer than 15 animals poses a variety of problems for viability, including genetic bottlenecking and extremely high susceptibility to stochastic events. Further reductions in habitat for foraging, lambing, and escape combined with fragmenting important use areas may cause the Cushenbury bighorn sheep population to “blink out”. Disturbance and lack of adequate high quality habitat may result in displacement of bighorn into areas of lower quality habitat that are unable to sustain the herd over the project life. Small groups of bighorns may hang on for a few years in lower quality habitat and in patches of higher quality habitat; but over time, the herd will likely disappear without a strategic plan to protect high quality habitat and movement throughout their range.

However, due to the lack of preferred habitat conditions in the analysis area, it is unlikely that the Proposed Action or Alternative 3 would contribute to the ongoing concerns about this population of bighorn sheep.

V-2.5.5.12 Mountain Lion (Felis concolor californica) The mountain lion is a SBNF Watchlist species and a CDFW Specially-Protected Mammal.

While mountain lions remain one of the most widely distributed terrestrial mammals in the western hemisphere; populations have been reduced in urbanized areas, such as southern California, where concerns have been raised about population viability.

Mountain lions are habitat generalists, inhabiting a variety of habitat types throughout California, from deserts to humid Coast Ranges. They are most abundant in areas that support a large population of deer, their primary prey. Within these habitat types, mountain lions tend to prefer rocky cliffs, ledges, and other areas that provide cover. They are rare at higher elevations in pure stands of conifers and at lower elevations in pure stands of chamise (Adenostoma fasciculatum).

Fire plays an important role in determining the suitability of habitat for mountain lions. Fires, which reduce canopy closure, increase vigor and accessibility, and improve palatability of shrub species preferred by deer, will benefit mountain lion populations. The diet of mountain lions in California is almost 80 percent mule deer. Because they are opportunistic feeders, mountain lions exploit whatever food source is available, including bighorn sheep, skunk, porcupine, rabbit, raccoon, badger, squirrels, mice, wild pig, and domestic animals.

Mountain lions reach sexual maturity at approximately 2.5 years of age, after which time they are capable of breeding throughout the year. They generally produce one litter every other year but can breed in consecutive years under optimal conditions. A peak in births occurs during the summer.

Mountain lions are solitary, secretive, and elusive. They are primarily nocturnal and commonly forage at dawn and dusk. Mountain lions are closely associated with mule deer populations in California and follow deer along migration routes. The home range of adult males in California was reported to encompass more than 100 square miles. Female home ranges are generally much smaller, covering 20-60 square miles. The size of an individual's home range can vary by orders of magnitude, from season to season, and year to year, and is strongly dependent on prey density. (Source: USFS 2006 Forest Plan Species Accounts) Page 178

Mountain lions are keystone predators with the ability to exert population-level influences on primary and alternate prey species under certain conditions. Mountain lion numbers are ultimately governed by the population of mule deer, their primary prey. Studies show that declines in mule deer may lead to prey switching by mountain lions with negative impacts on populations of alternate prey, specifically bighorn sheep, although this may not always be the case (Villepique 2011). In light of the potential for declines in mule deer numbers to lead to perturbations in prey selection by mountain lions with negative impacts on bighorn sheep numbers, maintenance of a healthy mule deer population is critical to both the conservation of mountain lions, and the stability of the predator-prey food web (Villepique, pers. comm. 2013).

Occurrence in Analysis area – Mountain Lion: Mountain lions have been documented adjacent to the analysis area, including using the wildlife water developments at the mines on the North Slope. They are very likely to occur in the analysis area.

Potential Effects – Mountain Lion: The types of potential effects from the Proposed Action would be similar to those discussed above for Nelson’s bighorn sheep.

In addition, if the project caused displacement, reduction in size, or loss of the deer and bighorn sheep herds in the vicinity, mountain lions may be affected due to lack of a sustainable prey base. See discussions below about mule deer below.

V-2.6 – SBNF Watchlist Animals – Summary of Effects of No Action The discussion in Part II-3.3 is applicable for Watchlist species that occur in the analysis area. Under the No Action, the baseline condition would persist.

V-2.7 – SBNF Watchlist Animals – Summary of Effects of Alternative 3 Alternative 3 is the same as the Proposed Action with the addition of mixed use of vehicle types (street legal and non-street legal vehicles) on 3N14 between Big Pine Flats and 4N16A (the road to Horse Springs Campground).

The effects of Alternative 3 on Watchlist animals would be the same as the effects described above for the Proposed Action with the addition of some increased potential for disturbance of animals along 3N14 if increased use occurs as a result of the change.

In addition, there is potential for an increase in overall traffic volume on 3N14 which may have an effect on birds and other animals using the riparian areas along this stretch of road. The noise disturbance may be slightly higher but would not be expected to be substantially greater than the existing condition. There may be a need for some small areas of road improvements and brush trimming to enhance visibility along the roadway but this is expected to be along the road’s edge and would not adversely affect the integrity of roadside habitat.

Alternative 3 would have the same beneficial effects as discussed under the Proposed Action discussions as a result of restoration/closure of unauthorized routes, reducing overall road/trail densities.

Page 179

V-2.8– Viability of Other Animal Species of Concern – Potential Effects There are some other wildlife species known or with potential to occur in the analysis area that carry special status from other agencies (including CDFW species of special concern and species listed by California as Threatened or Endangered) but are not on the SBNF Watchlist or Regional Forester’s Sensitive list. These species have been identified as having either localized or regional declines or threats.

V-2.8.1 San Diego Coast Horned Lizard (Phrynosoma coronatum blainvillii) The coast horned lizard was removed from the Forest Service’s Regional Forester Sensitive species list in early 2013. It is a CDFW Species of Special Concern.

It is endemic to southern California and northern Baja California, México. San Diego horned lizards are found in a wide variety of habitats including coastal sage scrub, chaparral, grassland, coniferous forest, oak woodland, riparian, and the margins of the higher elevation desert where it is restricted to the juniper-desert chaparral. Within each of these habitats, this species prefers areas with loose, fine soils, an abundance of open areas for basking and plenty of native ants and other insects. This species has been reported from elevations ranging from sea level to above 8,000 feet.

Seasonal activity occurs between late March and early October, with hibernation setting in as early as August. P. c. blainvillei emerges from hibernation in March, and becomes surface active in April through July, after which most adults estivate. The adults reappear again briefly in late summer and return to overwintering sites between August and early October depending upon elevation.

The defense that P. c. blainvillei most often uses against approaching predators is to depend on their cryptic appearance and simply lie motionless. Horned lizards of the genus Phrynosoma are primarily ant-eating reptiles whose dietary habits are well known. Up to 90 percent of the diet of P. c. blainvillei consists of native harvester ants (Pogonomyrmex spp.), and this species does not appear to eat nonnative Argentine ants that have replaced native ants in much of southern California. Other slow-moving insects, such as termites, beetles, flies, wasps, grasshoppers and caterpillars are consumed opportunistically when encountered.

The specialized diet and habitat requirements, site fidelity, and cryptic defense behavior make P. c. blainvillei highly vulnerable. Commercial collecting, and habitat loss due to agriculture and urbanization is the main reasons cited for the decline of these taxa. Most surviving populations inhabit upland sites with limited optimal habitat. However, the most insidious threat to P. c. blainvillei is the continued elimination of its food base by exotic ants. Argentine ants colonize around disturbed soils associated with building foundations, roads and landfills, and expand into adjacent areas, eliminating native ant colonies. Under these conditions P. c. blainvillei populations have become increasingly fragmented, and have undergone the added stress of a number of other factors, including fire, grazing, off-road vehicles, domestic cats, and development . This taxon is unable to survive habitats altered by development, agriculture, off- road vehicle use, or flood control structures. (Source: USFS 2006 Forest Plan Species Accounts)

Page 180

Coast horned lizards are known from the analysis area and suitable habitat occurs in many parts of the analysis area. There is risk of death or injury due to vehicle traffic on trails and roads in the area. Due to their cryptic coloration and tendency to freeze when threatened, they are especially vulnerable to being run over. There is also the possibility that individuals may be illegally collected. Restoration of user-created trails may be beneficial to coast horned lizards by reducing trail density.

V-2.8.2 Swainson’s Hawk (Buteo swainsoni) The Swainson’s hawk was a Forest Service Region 5 Sensitive species but was removed from the list in 2013. It is a CDFW Threatened species.

In California, Swainson's hawk habitat generally consists of large, flat, open, undeveloped landscapes that include suitable grassland or agricultural foraging habitat and sparsely distributed trees for nesting.

Swainson's hawks usually nest in large native trees such as valley oak (Quercus lobata), cottonwood (Populus fremontia), and willow (Salix spp.), although nonnative trees, such as eucalyptus (Eucalyptus spp.), are occasionally used. Nests occur in riparian woodlands, roadside trees, trees along field borders, isolated trees, small groves, trees in windbreaks, and on the edges of remnant oak woodlands. Nests are constructed using materials from the nest tree or nearby trees, are up to 24 inches in diameter, and are usually constructed as high as possible in the tree, providing optimal protection and visibility from the nest

Swainson's hawks require wide-open landscapes for foraging. Historically, the species used grass-dominated and desert habitats throughout most of lowland California. Over the past century, conversion of much of the historic range to agricultural uses has shifted the nesting distribution into agricultural areas that mimic grassland habitats or otherwise provide suitable foraging habitat. Suitable agricultural crop patterns include a mixture of hay, grain, and row crops with low-lying vegetation that support adequate rodent prey populations.

Swainson's hawks arrive on the breeding grounds from early March to early April. Pair bonding begins immediately and includes courtship displays, reestablishment of territorial boundaries, and nest construction or repair. One to four eggs are usually laid in early to mid-April and hatch in mid-May.

During the breeding season, Swainson's hawks feed primarily on small rodents, including voles (Microtus sp.), deer mice (Peromyscus sp.), house mice (Mus musculus), and pocket gophers (Thomomys sp.). Swainson's hawks typically forage in large fields that support low vegetative cover (to provide access to the ground) and provide the highest densities of prey. In agricultural regions, these habitats include fields of hay and grain crops; certain row crops, such as tomatoes and sugar beets; and lightly grazed pasturelands. Other less frequent food items include reptiles, birds, and insects. Swainson's hawks are open-country hunters. The usual foraging technique involves searching for prey from a low altitude soaring flight, 98-295 feet above the ground and attacking prey by stooping toward the ground.

Page 181

Swainson's hawks are entirely diurnal. In California, Swainson's hawks begin their fall migration from late August to mid-September.

Early accounts described the Swainson's hawk as one of the most common raptors in California, occurring throughout much of lowland California. Since the mid-1800s, native habitats have undergone a gradual conversion to agricultural uses. Today, native grassland habitats are virtually nonexistent in the state, and only remnants of the once vast riparian forests and oak woodlands still exist. This habitat loss has caused a substantial reduction in the breeding range and the size of the breeding population in California. Swainson's hawks are also sensitive to habitat fragmentation. The state currently supports between 700 and 1,000 breeding pairs, which represents less than 10 percent of the historic population. (Source: USFS 2006 Forest Plan Species Account)

This species is not a regular breeder in the San Bernardino Mountains. Swainson’s hawks have been detected at Cushenbury Springs (Kielhold 1993), Blackhawk Mountain (Myers 1998) and CNDDB has some records from nesting Swainson’s hawks in the Mojave Desert. Swainson’s hawks may forage in the Coxey Meadow area during migration and may also forage in the Rattlesnake OHV analysis area.

The discussion of effects to Watchlist birds (Part V-2.5.4.40) applies to this species.

V-2.8.4 Olive-Sided Flycatcher (Contopus cooperi) The olive-sided flycatcher is a CDFW Species of Special Concern and a USFWS Bird of Conservation Concern. This flycatcher is an uncommon transient and uncommon summer resident (breeding bird) in conifer forest as well as montane riparian habitats with the San Bernardino Mountains.

Olive-sided flycatchers are predominantly a montane and northern coniferous forest species, usually at mid- to high-elevations. Within coniferous forest, it is most often associated with forest openings, forest edges near natural openings (e.g., meadows, bogs, canyons, rivers) or human-made openings (e.g., harvest units), or open to semi-open forest stands. Presence in early successional forest appears to be dependent on the availability of snags or residual live trees for foraging and singing perches. The olive-sided flycatcher can occur along wooded shores of streams, lakes, rivers, beaver ponds, bogs and muskegs, where natural edge habitat occurs and standing dead trees are present.

They prefer forest edges and openings either natural or human-made, and tend to increase in density as canopy cover decreases. Olive-sided flycatchers have been linked to burned areas of mixed conifer and ponderosa pine.

Nests are generally placed high up in the tree (usually coniferous), away from the main trunk, on a horizontal branch. The open cup nest is constructed of twigs, lichens, moss, and pine needles, lined with fine grasses, lichens, and rootlets and held firmly to the branch with spider webs. The species is monogamous. June is the peak of egg-laying with nests being noted as early as mid- May and as late as July. Incubation lasts 14–17 days. Nestlings are cared for by both parents

Page 182

and typically fledge in 15–19 days. Olive-sided flycatchers are sustained nearly entirely on flying insects.

Olive-sided flycatchers are neo-tropical migrants. The species is known to be a nocturnal migrant. First migrants arrive in southern California in mid-April and in northern California in early May. Some transients are still moving through the state in June and rarely birds have been known to winter in southern California

This species is a regular breeder in the San Bernardino Mountains and it is known the North Slope: Omya’s Butterfield/Sentinel area (SBNF records 2011) and Jacoby Canyon (SBCM survey records for 2002 and 2005). Suitable habitat for nesting, roosting, and foraging habitat for this species occurs in the analysis area and vicinity. The discussion of effects to Watchlist birds (Part V-2.5.4.40) applies to this species.

V-2.8.5 Yellow-Headed Blackbird (Xanthocephalus xanthocephalus) The yellow-headed blackbird is a CDFW Species of Special Concern. Yellow-headed blackbirds nest in fresh emergent wetland with dense vegetation and deep water, often along borders of lakes or ponds. They forage in emergent wetland and moist, open areas, especially cropland and muddy shores of lacustrine habitat. This species is a migrant and local breeder in deserts. It has bred as high as 6600 feet in the San Bernardino Mountains near Big Bear Lake.

Adults feed primarily on seeds and cultivated grains; they eat insects in breeding season. Young are fed mostly insects, some spiders and snails. Yellow-headed blackbirds forage in emergent vegetation, along moist shorelines, and in nearby grasslands and croplands, preferably near water or on moist ground. They often hawk flying insects. They nest in colonies in dense emergent wetland vegetation, often bordering a pone or lake. They only breed where large insects such as dragonflies are abundant with nesting timed to coincide with maximum emergence of aquatic insects. (Source: http://www.dfg.ca.gov/biogeodata/cwhr/cawildlife.aspx)

Yellow-headed blackbirds are known from the Baldwin Lake area and Coxey Meadow. Because of their presence during summer months, nesting is suspected in the Baldwin Lake area. Nesting at Coxey Meadow has not been documented but may occur. No new routes are proposed near the suitable habitat at Coxey Meadow. Under Alternative 3, adding OHV use to 3N14 would likely increase the use on that road, especially on weekends. Noise from the additional vehicles on 3N15 would not change the disturbance levels in the suitable habitat farther from the road. It is possible that increased use on 3N14 might increase the level of foot traffic to Coxey pond and could increase disturbance in that way. The discussion of effects to Watchlist birds (Part V- 2.5.4.40) applies to this species.

V-2.8.6 California Leaf-Nosed Bat (Macrotus californicus) The California leaf-nosed bat was removed from the Forest Service’s Regional Forester Sensitive species list in 2013. It is a CDFW Species of Special Concern, a BLM Sensitive species, and a Western Bat Working Group high priority species.

The California leaf-nosed bat is the only species of the genus Macrotus that occurs in California. California leaf-nosed bats are strongly associated with desert riparian and wash habitats and Page 183

favor caves, mines or cave-like structures. In southern California deserts they forage almost exclusively in desert washes. Roosts are generally located in proximity to desert wash areas below elevations of 3,000 feet. Night roosting habitat includes buildings, cellars, porches, bridges, rock shelters, and mines. Favored day roosts include mineshafts and caves. California leaf-nosed bats do not migrate. However, some local movement between roosts may occur, particularly on a seasonal basis.

Long, geothermally-heated mine tunnels are utilized for maternity and winter roosts. California leaf-nosed bats do not become torpid as do other sympatric bat species, and sustained exposure to ambient temperatures below 26 ° C can result in death. The warmth of the geothermally heated roosts provides a stable year-round temperature of approximately 29 ° C, allowing resident California leaf-nosed bats to minimize energy expenditure during winter as well as summer.

Females form maternity colonies and give birth to single young during May and June. Young are weaned and become volant in July and August. Males roost separately during these months but rejoin females in the late summer and early fall. Males congregate at lekking (courtship display) sites in mines and caves.

California leaf-nosed bats feed primarily on grasshoppers, cicadas, moths, butterflies, dragonflies, beetles, and caterpillars. Prey items are gleaned from the ground or vegetation. Foraging ranges are small, with most activity within 0.9 mile of day roosts in winter months and up to 1.9 miles during summer months. This species does not require drinking water.

As is true for many cave-or cave-like dwelling bat species, loss of suitable roost sites and associated foraging habitat and disturbances/vandalism at roost sites are thought to be responsible for the observed population declines of California leaf-nosed bat. If roost sites are not altogether destroyed or eliminated, bats may abandon roosts if they are disturbed. Low reproductive potential, high longevity and high roost fidelity make populations highly sensitive to roost threats. Disturbance that arouses a bat during their winter hibernation will cause loss of accumulated fat reserves and possible starvation. Desert riparian habitats and suitable mine shafts are important to the conservation of this species. (Source: USFS 2006 Forest Plan Species Account)

California leaf-nosed bats records exist for the Arrastre Creek, in similar pinyon/juniper and desert transition habitat to that found at the project site. However, there is some question about the validity of that record. Because this species is generally associated with low-elevation desert habitat, it is unlikely that it occurs at the project area. It may occur at lower elevations in desert habitat on the northwest part of the project area, but even those areas are above the typical elevation distribution for this species. See Part V-2.5.5.1.9 for a discussion of effects to bats.

V-2.8.7 Western Red Bat (Lasiurus blossevillii) The western red bat was removed from the Forest Service’s Regional Forester Sensitive species list in early 2013. It is a CDFW Species of Special Concern and a Western Bat Working Group high priority species. Page 184

The western red bat occurs in western Canada, western United States, western Mexico, and Central and South America. The western red bat is associated with large deciduous trees in riparian habitat. It often occurs in streamside habitats dominated by cottonwood, oaks, sycamore, and walnut. Foraging occurs in association with streams, forest openings, and clearings.

The western red bat is primarily a solitary species that roosts in the foliage of trees and shrubs in habitats bordering forests, rivers, cultivated fields, and urban. This solitary foliage roosting species typically selects roost sites in riparian trees such as cottonwood and sycamore. Roost sites are generally hidden from view from all directions except below; lack obstruction beneath, allowing the bat to drop downward for flight; lack lower perches that would allow visibility by predators; have dark ground cover to minimize solar reflection and have nearby vegetation to reduce wind and dust. This species has also been described as using saguaro cavities and cave- like structures for roosting habitat.

The diet of western red bat consists of a variety of flying insects such as moths, but it also includes flies, bugs, beetles, cicadas, ground-dwelling crickets, and hymenopterans. Foraging generally begins at high altitude in the air, but later moves to between tree canopy level and a few feet above the ground. Red bats mainly feed on moths by aerially hawking along edges, over meadows and along riparian courses.

Little information is available regarding migration patterns for this species. During winter months, western red bats move to milder coastal areas in the Pacific Northwest. In the southwest, western red bats are only present during the summer months, indicating that a seasonal migration does occur. In northern California this species is present through winter in the San Francisco area but is absent during the summer, further suggesting that migration occurs Young are born between mid-May and late June.

In general, declines of bat populations can often be attributed to roost site disturbance, loss of foraging habitat, and loss of roost sites. Many bats are shy and highly vulnerable to disturbances at roost sites. Disturbance at roost sites can lead to short and long-term abandonment. Generally, bats have high site fidelity to winter and maternity roosts. Low reproductive potential, high longevity and high roost fidelity make populations highly sensitive to roost threats. (Source: USFS 2006 Forest Plan Species Accounts)

Red bats are known from Deep Creek and the Big Bear area and may occur in the analysis area. See Part V-2.5.5.1.9 for a discussion of effects to bats.

V-2.8.8 Silver-Haired Bat (Lasionycteris noctivagans) The silver-haired bat is a Western Bat Working Group Medium priority species and a “Recommended Watch” species for CDFW. Silver-haired bats are common, but erratic in abundance. Summer habitats include coastal and montane coniferous forests, valley foothill woodlands, pinyon-juniper woodlands, and valley foothill and montane riparian habitats. They are primarily forest dwellers, feeding over streams, ponds, and open brushy areas. Summer range is generally below 9000 feet. Page 185

This species feeds mainly on moths and other soft-bodied insects. Also eats beetles and hard- shelled insects to some extent. Foraging flight is slow and fluttery with short glides. They feed less than 20 feet above forest streams, ponds, and open brushy areas. Silver-haired bats roost in hollow trees, snags, buildings, rock crevices, caves, and under bark. Females may form nursery colonies or occur as solitary individuals in dense foliage or hollow trees. This species needs drinking water.

Silver-haired bats make long migration flights to hibernation sites. Though the migratory paths of individual bats are unknown, it is likely that some California silver-haired bats winter in Mexico. (Source: http://www.dfg.ca.gov/biogeodata/cwhr/cawildlife.aspx)

Bats, in general, are threatened by disturbance, vandalism, habitat loss, and pesticide use. Silver- haired bats have the potential to occur in the analysis area.

Silver-haired bats are known from the Mountaintop District in similar habitat and have a potential to occur in the analysis area. See Part V-2.5.5.1.9 for a discussion of effects to bats.

V-2.8.9 Hoary Bat (Lasiurus cinereus) The hoary bat is a Western Bat Working Group Medium priority species and a “Recommended Watch” species for CDFW. This species be found at any location in California, although distribution patchy in southeastern deserts. This common, solitary species winters along the coast and in southern California, breeding inland and north of the winter range. This species migrates between summer and winter ranges, probably over long distances. During migration in southern California, males are found in foothills, deserts and mountains; females in lowlands and coastal valleys. Habitats suitable for bearing young include all woodlands and forests with medium to large-size trees and dense foliage. Hoary bats have been recorded from sea level to 13,200 feet.

The hoary bat feeds primarily on moths, although various flying insects are taken. These bats generally roost in dense foliage of medium to large trees. Preferred sites are hidden from above, with few branches below, and have ground cover of low reflectivity. Females and young tend to roost at higher sites in trees. Females bear young while roosting in trees, preferring sites as described under cover requirements. Females may leave the young in the roosting site while foraging. Hoary bats require water as they have relatively poor urine-concentrating abilities. They prefer open habitats or habitat mosaics, with access to trees for cover and open areas or habitat edges for feeding. (Source: http://www.dfg.ca.gov/biogeodata/cwhr/cawildlife.aspx)

Hoary bats are known from the Mountaintop District in similar habitat and have a potential to occur in the analysis area. See Part V-2.5.5.1.9 for a discussion of effects to bats.

V-2.8.10 Mule Deer (Odocoileus hemionus) The mule deer is a popular game species in the San Bernardino Mountains. The following species account information was taken from the Forest Plan species account (2006 USFS Forest Plan) and updated by CDFW biologist J. Villepique (pers. comm. 2013).

Page 186

Mule deer populations have declined throughout western North America over the past three decades, prompting concern over the diminished role of this dominant herbivore in most forest and shrub habitats in western North America. Mule deer play a role in shaping bottom-up dynamics in ecosystems, affecting plant communities through browsing, seed dispersal, and nutrient transport, while also regulating top trophic predators, particularly mountain lions, which depend on mule deer populations as the primary source of prey.

The characteristics of habitat used by mule deer differ geographically, including oak woodlands, riparian areas, grassland/meadow margins, open scrub, young chaparral, and pine forests. The availability of water during the summer is a critical habitat requirement; some studies have found that they are within 0.6 miles of a water source in arid areas, with lactating females most dependent on access to water. Mule deer are herbivores and require adequate supplies of highly digestible, succulent forage. Although mule deer have traditionally been identified as browsers (consuming predominantly woody forage), studies of their diet and stomach structure have induced researchers to reclassify them as intermediate feeders (consuming equal proportions of woody and herbaceous forage).

Mule deer usually reach sexual maturity at 1.5 years, and most females breed during their second year. Breeding records from 23 separate studies indicate that mule deer breed from mid- September to early March. A peak in breeding appears to occur from late November through mid-December. Young are born from late spring to early autumn, and the peak birth period is generally from mid-June to early July.

Mule deer may be active day or night but are generally crepuscular. Migratory mule deer establish distinct summer and winter home ranges and use approximately the same home ranges in consecutive years. Non-migratory mule deer maintain yearlong home ranges. Mule deer are neither highly gregarious nor solitary. During much of the year they are widely dispersed, occurring individually or in small groups. Female groups include individuals related by maternal descent, and bucks occur in groups of unrelated males sharing common or overlapping home ranges.

A study in the San Bernardino Mountains found that deer largely avoided areas regularly occupied by humans (e.g., campgrounds and summer cabins), to the extent that they did not utilize habitats that would otherwise be of high quality (e.g., riparian habitats and meadows; Nicholson et al. 1997). Nicholson concluded that mule deer avoided areas of high human activity, consequently avoiding potentially valuable resources. The tendency of mule deer to avoid areas of frequent human use is an important management issue (Source: USFS 2006 Forest Plan Species Accounts).

The analysis area is situated adjacent to the steep “North Slope” region of the San Bernardino Mountains. Mule deer on the North Slope had higher densities and greater recruitment than in adjacent areas in the SBNF in helicopter surveys for deer (CDFW files). The North Slope of the San Bernardino Mountains provides high-quality habitat for reproduction and growth of mule deer, likely as a result of reduced disturbance from human recreation due to the reduced density of roads and trails, compared to the less rugged areas to the south, as well as to the availability of several water supplies and high quality forage associated with these springs and seeps. Page 187

Mule deer occupying the North Slope likely serve as a source population to areas of lower mule deer density at higher elevations to the south. Consequently, mule deer habitat on the North Slope of the San Bernardino Mountains plays an important role in the health of the mule deer population in the San Bernardino Mountains (Villepique, pers. comm. 2013). Mule deer are known to use the analysis area and have been documented using the wildlife drinkers at the mines on the North Slope, as well as at nearby natural water sources.

Deer are especially sensitive to motorized vehicle activities. High road/trail densities can cause abandonment and fragmentation of habitat (Parts II-3.2.5 and II-3.2.7 The areas close to the official system trail network would likely be avoided by mule deer over the long-term. The Proposed Action would result in a reduction of trail densities in the project area as well as fewer trails in/near riparian areas (see Part II-3.2.6 By reducing the trail densities and relocating trails away from riparian areas, the Proposed Action would be expected to improve habitat conditions and reduce disturbance for mule deer. See Part II-3.2.12 for a discussion of expected beneficial effects.

V-2.9 – Other Animal Species of Concern – Summary of Effects of No Action The discussion in Part II-3.3 is applicable for other animals of concern that are discussed above. Under the No Action, the baseline condition would persist.

V-2.10 – Other Animal Species of Concern – Summary of Effects of Alternative 3 Alternative 3 is the same as the Proposed Action with the addition of mixed use of vehicle types (street legal and non-street legal) on 3N14 between Big Pine Flats and 4N16A (the road to Horse Springs Campground). The effects of Alternative 3 on other animal species of concern would be the same as the effects described above for the Proposed Action with the addition of some increased potential for disturbance of animals along 3N14 if increased use occurs as a result of the change.

In addition, there is potential for an overall increase in traffic volume on 3N14 as a result of adding OHV use to the road. The potential for increased disturbance to species along the road may be slightly higher than existing conditions but would not be expected to be substantially greater than the current condition. Some small areas of 3N14 may require road maintenance and brush trimming to enhance visibility along the roadway but this is expected to be along the road’s edge and would not adversely affect the integrity of the roadside habitat.

Alternative 3 would have the same beneficial effects as discussed under the Proposed Action as a result of restoration/closure of unauthorized routes, reducing overall road/trail densities.

V-3.0 –FINDINGS SBNF Watchlist Animals and Other Animal Species of Concern: For many of the animals discussed above, implementation of the Proposed Action or Alternative 3 would degrade wildlife conditions in areas close to the proposed trails as a result of frequent disturbance. After completion of the proposed restoration of user-created trails, the resulting reduced road/trail density may provide better habitat conditions for the blocks of habitat away from the trail system. Some individuals would likely be injured or killed as a result of use of the trail system. Page 188

However, the proposed project would not result in a loss of viability for the wildlife species discussed in Part V of this document.

Migratory Birds: Implementation of either of the Proposed Action may unintentionally affect individual migratory birds. The project complies with the Migratory Bird Executive Order (January 11, 2001), because the analysis meets direction defined under the 2008 Memorandum of Understanding between the Forest Service and USFWS.

SBNF Watchlist Plant Species: Implementation of the Proposed Action would affect individual Watchlist plants and would likely have effects to Watchlist plant populations, as described above. However, the proposed project would not result in a loss of population viability for the plant species discussed in Part II of this document.

Page 189

PART VI: PROJECT-LEVEL ASSESSMENT - MANAGEMENT INDICATOR SPECIES

VI-1.0 - INTRODUCTION Management indicator species (MIS) are selected because their population changes are believed to indicate the effects of management activities (36 CFR [Code of Federal Regulations] 219.19(a) (1), 1982) and to serve as a focus for monitoring (36 CFR 219(a) (6), 1982). The regulation (1982 Planning Rule) required the selection of vertebrate and/or invertebrate species as MIS but did not preclude the selection of other life forms. Vascular plants were included as SBNF MIS because these species are often wide-ranging and responsive to landscape-level stressors.

The purpose of this assessment is to evaluate the potential effects of the proposed project on the MIS populations identified in the Forest Plan. The rationale for MIS species selection is presented in Appendix B of the Forest Plan EIS.

To be biologically meaningful, this information is discussed at a variety of spatial scales, including the range of the species, State (i.e., California), Province (e.g., Southern), and Forest. The purpose of the MIS analysis is to identify species/habitat relationships (identified in the Forest Plan) and evaluate the potential effects to the MIS habitat. The MIS evaluation does not address effects to the species, but instead focuses on how the project’s effects on the MIS habitat may contribute to population trends at the different scales.

VI-2.0 - MIS SELECTED FOR PROJECT ANALYSIS There are five MIS animals and three MIS trees present on the SBNF (Table 14). A review was conducted to determine whether the analysis area was in known or potential habitat for each MIS. Table 14 displays a brief rationale of which species will be evaluated. Song sparrow, mountain lion, and mule deer have habitat that could be affected by the proposed project.

VI-3.0 - MIS ENVIRONMENTAL BASELINE AND EFFECTS ANALYSIS MIS species accounts (in the Project Record) incorporated by reference into this document are based on the most current information on life history, habitat relationships, past and present suitable habitat, and population information. The MIS species accounts contain information about habitat status and trend, and population status and trend. They also discuss the methodology used for assessing status and trends (e.g., breeding bird surveys, Forest Inventory Assessment data).

This section summarizes known information about MIS occurrence in or near the analysis area, population trends over time, the amount of potentially available and affected suitable habitat, and discusses the potential effects to habitat and the issue for which the species was selected as an MIS. Potential disturbance or direct/indirect effects to individuals are not part of the MIS evaluation. For example, the song sparrow discussion addresses effects to riparian/aquatic habitat using song sparrow population trends as a way to measure those effects.

Page 190

Table 14. Management Indicator Species Selection and Monitoring Information Species Habitat Type Issue Objectives Monitoring Method Measure Analyzed? Mule Deer All Vegetation Diversity and Age Stable or increasing Herd composition in Trend in abundance Yes – habitat Class Mosaics; Roads and well-distributed cooperation with and/or habitat and species are Recreation Effects populations CDFW; habitat condition present condition Mountain All Habitat Linkages/Habitat Functional Studies in cooperation Trend in distribution, Yes – habitat Lion Fragmentation landscape linkages; with CDFW and USGS movement, and/or and species are species well- habitat conditions present distributed Arroyo Aquatic and Ground Disturbance including Properly functioning Population abundance Trend in abundance, No – suitable Toad Riparian trampling and compaction; spread streams; stable or and/or habitat distribution, and/or habitat is not of invasive nonnative species; increasing conditions habitat condition present mortality from collision; altered populations stream flow regimes Song Aquatic and Ground Disturbance including Stable or increasing Riparian bird species Trend in abundance Yes – suitable Sparrow Riparian trampling and compaction; spread populations; healthy point counts and/or and/or habitat habitat is of invasive nonnative species; riparian habitat habitat condition condition present mortality from collision; altered stream flow regimes California Mixed Conifer Altered fire regimes (fire severity Maintain/increase FS Region 5, CDFW Occupied territories No – habitat is spotted owl Forests and/or fire return interval) numbers and protocol and/or habitat not present distribution condition Coulter Chaparral/Conifer Drought/beetle-related mortality Maintain Coulter FIA data; aerial photo- Trend in age/size class No – habitat Pine Ecotone and lack of fire pine habitat monitoring distribution type is not present Bigcone Chaparral/Conifer Altered fire regimes (fire severity Maintain bigcone FIA data; photo- Trend in extent of No – habitat Douglas-fir Ecotone and/or fire return interval) Douglas-fir stands monitoring vegetation type type is not present California Mixed Conifer Altered fire regimes (fire severity Maintain or increase FIA data Trend in abundance, No – habitat black oak Forests and/or fire return interval) numbers size class distribution type is not present White fir Mixed Conifer Altered fire regimes (fire severity Pre-settlement FIA data Trend in size class No – habitat Forests and/or fire return interval) age/size class distribution type is not distribution present

Page 191

Baseline information for each of the MIS is contained in the Forest Plan EIS (page 123 and Table 433 on p. 177) and in the more detailed MIS species accounts (in project record) and is only summarized here. These other documents are incorporated by reference and the information in them is the basis for the following discussions and analyses.

See Part II-3.1.3 for an explanation of Direct, Indirect, and Cumulative Effects. That section also contains discussions about present and foreseeable future projects that are considered in the Cumulative Effects discussions for each species. The discussion of the effects of the No Action alternative in Part II-3.3 is applicable for the MIS that have habitat that in/near the analysis area within the range of potential effects.

VI-3.1 – Song Sparrow The song sparrow was selected as a MIS for riparian areas because its abundance is expected to be responsive to management actions and to indicate trends in the status of the riparian biological community, particularly birds. The desired condition for song sparrows is that wildlife habitat conditions sustain healthy populations of native and desired non-native fish and game species. And, that wildlife habitat functions are maintained or improved, including primary feeding areas, winter ranges, breeding areas, birthing areas, rearing areas, migration corridors, and landscape linkages (Forest Plan, Part 1 p.45).

The desired condition is that flow regimes in streams that provide habitat for Threatened, Endangered, Proposed, Candidate, and/or Sensitive aquatic and riparian-dependent species are sufficient to allow the species to persist and complete all phases of their life cycles (Forest Plan, Part 1, p. 45). The desired condition for riparian condition is that watercourses are functioning properly and support healthy populations of native and desired non-native riparian-dependent species (Forest Plan, Part 1, p. 41).

The objectives for song sparrow are that there are stable or increasing populations and healthy riparian habitat. Trends in abundance and/or habitat conditions are to be used as measurements for evaluation. The monitoring method is to be riparian bird counts and/or habitat conditions (Forest Plan FEIS, Vol. 1. p. 177, Table 433).

Song sparrow abundance is positively correlated with the abundance of riparian herbaceous vegetation and negatively correlated with the use of riparian under-stories for grazing and recreation (Ballard and Geupel 1998). This species was well-represented in riparian bird count surveys on the four southern Forests from 1988 to 1996. Negative trends were determined for the song sparrow during this monitoring.

Riparian habitat within the San Bernardino Mountains on federal and non-federal lands has been affected by water diversions and extractions over the years, reducing the amount and quality of this habitat type. As such, effects to song sparrow populations likely have occurred due to reduction in habitat quality and quantity. Demands on water, and thus riparian habitat, are likely continue to increase.

Page 192

VI-3.1.1 –Baseline Conditions for Song Sparrow The proposed project area supports suitable habitat for song sparrows, including several unnamed drainages with willows and riparian plants, Coxey Meadow, Coxey Creek, and Willow Creek.

The Forest Plan calls for using point count data as a method for monitoring song sparrows. There are no data from Audubon Christmas counts or Breeding Bird Survey (BBS) routes that include the project area. Instead, data from the Big Bear area counts and BBS routes are used for this analysis to illustrate that song sparrows are known from the high elevations of the San Bernardino Mountains and almost certainly occur in the project areas.

Audubon Christmas bird counts (http://audubon2.org/birds/cbc/hr/table.html) for areas close to the analysis area (Big Bear Lake) suggest that populations of song sparrows may be increasing locally during the winter (Figure 9).

Song Sparrow Detections - Big Bear Lake Chirstmas Bird Count (Number Per Count Hour)

0.4

0.35

0.3

0.25

0.2

Number/Count Hour Number/Count 0.15

0.1

0.05

0

42 44 48 50 53 57 67 72 75 77 80 82 84 86 88 90 94 96 98 101 104 Year (1942 - 2004)

Figure 9. Big Bear Lake Christmas Bird Count Data for Song Sparrow

The Big Bear Breeding Bird Survey route (#14066) had detections of song sparrows on the route (http://www.mbr-pwrc.usgs.gov/bbs/). BBS data suggest an increase in the number of song sparrows breeding in all of California (Figure 10); data for southern California alone were not available.

Page 193

Breeding Bird Survey Route Results for Song Sparrows in California 1200

1000

800

600

400 NumberofBreeding Song Sparrows 200

0

1976 1992 2008 1968 1970 1972 1974 1978 1980 1982 1984 1986 1988 1990 1994 1996 1998 2000 2002 2004 2006 2010 2012 2014

Year

Figure 10. Song Sparrow Breeding Bird Survey Data (https://www.pwrc.usgs.gov/bbs/results/)

Song sparrows are expected to occur in the riparian habitat in the project area. Available data are not robust enough to assess current trends.

VI-3.1.2 – Potential Effects to Song Sparrow Habitat – No Action Under the No Action alternative, riparian/aquatic habitat would likely continue to degrade as a result of use of unauthorized trails and the creation of more unauthorized trails.

VI-3.1.3 – Potential Effects to Song Sparrow Habitat – Proposed Action and Alterative 3 The purpose of using song sparrows as an MIS is to assess effects to riparian health. The Proposed Action includes areas where the trails cross or go through unnamed drainages with riparian habitat/conditions suitable for song sparrows. The Proposed Action would designate and reroute some of the current unauthorized routes to reduce effects to riparian habitat. Other unauthorized routes in riparian habitat would be completely closed and restored. The net effect to riparian habitat would be reduced under the Proposed Action.

Under Alternative 3, there are several other riparian areas (Coxey Meadow, Coxey Creek, and Willow Creek) adjacent to 3N14. Alternative 3 would add mixed use to 3N14. However, there would be no changes to the riparian habitat quality or quantity as a result of Alternative 3.

Page 194

VI-3.1.4 – Potential Cumulative Effects to Song Sparrow Habitat See Part II-3.1.3 for discussions of current and foreseeable future activities. All of the fuels reduction projects on the Mountaintop District currently being implemented or may be within the foreseeable future support suitable song sparrow habitat. Those projects contain the riparian and meadow protection Design Features to help protect riparian habitats. Similar vegetation management projects on private lands, however, do not generally carry the same levels of riparian protection as those on the SBNF and likely result in disturbance to song sparrows, in short-term and, potentially, in long-term alterations of habitat.

Planned housing developments in the San Bernardino Mountains will result in increased recreational uses in the analysis area, particularly in some of the more accessible riparian zones. Climate change has a potential to dramatically affect the distribution, amount, and quality of riparian habitat throughout southern California.

VI-3.1.5 – Summary – Song Sparrow The song sparrow was selected as a MIS for riparian habitat condition on the SBNF. The Proposed Action and Alternative 3 would be expected to have a positive effect on riparian habitat availability and quality by rerouting existing user-created trails out of riparian areas and establishing crossings that meet forest standards in areas where the trail must cross as stream corridor. Currently, this project is expected to be neutral or beneficial the desired condition for riparian habitat in the National Forest Southern Province.

VI-3.2 – Mule Deer The mule deer was selected as an MIS for forest health related to vegetation management, roads and associated recreation management. The desired condition for mule deer is that habitat functions are maintained or improved, including primary feeding areas, winter ranges, breeding areas, birthing areas, rearing areas, migration corridors, and landscape linkages (Forest Plan, Part 1, pg. 45). The objective for mule deer is that there are stable or increasing well-distributed populations. Trends in abundance and/or habitat condition are to be used for measuring populations. Populations are to be monitored by herd composition counts in cooperation with CDFW or by habitat condition (Forest Plan EIS, Vol. 1. pg. 177, Table 433).

VI-3.2.1 –Baseline Conditions for Mule Deer See Part V-2.8.10 of this document and MIS species account for this species (in the Project Record) for more detailed information regarding life history, habitat conditions, and population trends on the SBNF and in the National Forest southern province. References and literature citations are found in the MIS species accounts and are not generally repeated in the following discussions.

Mule deer populations across California and in southern California have declined from high levels in the early 1960s because of many factors. A sustained low survival rate of fawns is suspected as a major factor in the deer population decline. Factors thought to be contributing to the low survival rate of fawns include changes in the amount and distribution of vegetation and age classes, private land development adjacent to and within the National Forests, recreational use in key areas, lack of frequent small fires, and an increase in mountain lion predation. Severe

Page 195

drought cycles, which affect vegetation and water sources over several years, may also contribute to declines.

Mule deer populations have declined throughout western North America over the past three decades, prompting concern over the diminished role of this dominant herbivore in most forest and shrub habitats in western North America. Mule deer play a role in shaping bottom-up dynamics in ecosystems, affecting plant communities through browsing, seed dispersal, and nutrient transport, while also regulating top trophic predators, particularly mountain lions, which depend on mule deer populations as the primary source of prey.

The four southern California National Forests support most of the mule deer in the southern part of the state. These populations provide important hunting and wildlife viewing opportunities. The National Forests do not conduct their own individual population surveys but rather cooperate with the California Department of Fish and Game in their survey efforts.

The SBNF contains 3 distinct deer herds, all within Deer Assessment Unit (DAU)-7. Overall, the DAU-7 deer population is considered to be decreasing by the CDFW (Table 15). The DAU- 7 population appears to be exhibiting a declining trend from 20,000 in 1996 to 10,000 in 2004. During that period, the population varied between approximately 22,000 in 2001 and approximately 7,500 in 2003 (USFS 2006).

Table 15. Mule Deer Population Trend For DAUs Covering The SBNF1 DAU Name Hunting Zones Forests Population Trend DAU 7 South D-11, D-14, D-15, D-16, San Bernardino, Declining Coast and D19 Cleveland, Angeles 1 CDFW 2003

Mule deer in the analysis area are part of the San Bernardino Deer Herd. The analysis area is located in Deer Zone D-14 (http://www.dfg.ca.gov/hunting/deer/deerhunt.html). Table 16 displays population estimates for the San Bernardino Mountains by the CDFW.

Table 16. Mule Deer 2004 Population Estimates1 Hunt Zone DAU National Forest Estimated 2004 pre-hunting season population1 D-11 DAU 7 Angeles, San Bernardino 3,440 D-14 DAU 7 San Bernardino 1,610 D-19 DAU 7 San Bernardino 950 1 USFS 2005c

The deer population in Zone D-14 is considered stable to slightly declining, yet considerably below levels seen in the late 1960s - 1970s. As with most deer herds in California and other western states, the long-term population trend has been on a steady decline since the 1960s and 1970s. These long-term declines have been due to land management practices that have precluded fire, resulting in changes toward more mature and less diverse habitats, and reduced

Page 196

quality and quantity of deer habitats. Short-term fluctuations in deer populations are usually attributed to weather events that affect forage production.

The subspecies of deer inhabiting Zone D-14 is the California mule deer. Deer in Zone D-14 are considered resident deer. That is, their movement is up and down the slopes, they do not make long seasonal migrations. The deer in this area generally move to higher elevations in late spring and remain there until the first heavy fall storms force them down below the snow line.

The vegetation is highly varied throughout Zone D-14 ranging from chaparral, high desert scrub and pine forests to sub-alpine meadows. Generally speaking, deer populations in this area respond favorably to vegetation disturbances that enhance brush species (wildfire and timber harvesting). Riparian areas, recently burned areas, or clear cuts that have re-sprouted with brush provide good habitat for deer. Areas where oaks are producing acorns may also attract deer. Typically, lower densities of deer are observed in the more densely forested areas or in older, denser, shrub lands. The analysis area contains a lot of suitable habitat for mule deer. There is a relatively high abundance of year-round water and good cover in much of the analysis area. The hunt records since 1998 for D14 are used to evaluate the population trend in the area (Figure 11) (Data source: CDFW Website http://www.dfg.ca.gov/wildlife/hunting/deer/deerhunt.html).

350

300

250

200

150 Estimated Kill Deer

100

50

0

Year

Figure 11. Estimated Hunt Totals for Deer in Zone D14

Page 197

The number of deer taken during the hunting season, used to represent population status, appears to be relatively stable over time. However, if the low numbers in 2002 (due to extreme drought) are discounted, it appears that the populations in the hunt zone have some fluctuations but are relatively stable.

Since these records are for the entire hunt zone, it is difficult to assess the situation in the analysis area itself. It is likely that the deer populations in the analysis area are experiencing the same general trend seen by CDFW in the D-14 Zone due to roads and development. Temporary increases in populations may have occurred after the 2003 fires in response to early-successional vegetation.

The project area supports suitable year-round, including fawning, habitat for mule deer.

VI-3.2.2– Potential Effects to Mule Deer Habitat – No Action Under the No Action alternative, mule deer habitat and the issues for which it was chosen as an MIS (vegetation diversity and age class mosaics; roads and recreation effects) would likely continue to degrade as a result of unauthorized OHV trail use and development. Trail densities would likely increase over time and effects in high quality habitat near water sources and riparian vegetation would continue.

VI-3.2.3 – Potential Effects to Mule Deer Habitat – Proposed Action and Alternative 3 Under the Proposed Action and Alternative 3, mule deer habitat conditions would experience a net improvement as a result of reducing the trail densities and relocating trails away from riparian areas. The areas close to the proposed trail system would likely be avoided by mule deer over the long-term. Under both of these alternatives, no trails would be authorized/created in a large block of habitat between Rattlesnake Mountain and Horse Springs and unauthorized routes would be closed and restored. This would improve the deer habitat over the existing conditions.

VI-3.2.4 – Cumulative Effects to Mule Deer Habitat See Part II-3.1.3 for a discussion of current and foreseeable future activities. The result of this Proposed Action is an overall reduction in the number of miles of trail in the area and would be beneficial to deer habitat. Restoration of user-created trails in the area would provide more uninterrupted acres of habitat.

VI-3.2.5 – Summary – Mule Deer Mule deer is a MIS for healthy diverse habitat conditions on the SBNF. The Proposed Action and Alternative 3 would reduce the overall number of miles of trail in the area. It would decrease fragmentation of mule deer habitat and may have a positive effect on the local population. The overall effects to mule deer would be beneficial when compared to the current condition.

VI-3.3 – Mountain Lion The mountain lion was selected as an MIS to detect the effects of National Forest activities and uses on landscape-level habitat fragmentation and habitat linkages. The desired condition for mountain lion is that habitat function conditions sustain healthy and that wildlife habitat

Page 198

functions are maintained or improved, including primary feeding areas, winter ranges, breeding areas, birthing areas, rearing areas, migration corridors, and landscape linkages (Forest Plan, Part 1, pg.45).

The objectives for mountain lion are that there are functional landscape linkages and that the species is well-distributed. Trends in distribution, movement, and/or habitat conditions are to be used as measurements for evaluation. The monitoring method is studies in cooperation with CDFW, USGS and other agencies (Forest Plan EIS, Vol. 1. pg. 177, Table 433). Fire and fuel management are the main tools intended to implement the objective for providing prey availability. The greatest concern for the long-term health of mountain lion populations on the National Forests of southern California is loss of landscape connectivity between mountain ranges and large blocks of open space on private land.

VI-3.3.1 –Baseline Conditions for Mountain Lion See the Part V-2.5.5.12 of this document and MIS species account for this species (in the Project Record) for more detailed information regarding life history, habitat conditions, and population trends on the SBNF and in the National Forest southern province. The mountain lion is the largest carnivore in southern California and requires large core habitat areas, abundant prey, and habitat connectivity between sub-populations. Recent state population estimates range from 2,500 to 6,000 individuals, with an increasing population trend. Mountain lions inhabit forest and shrub-land habitats throughout California where deer, their primary prey, are found.

Mountain lion population counts are very difficult and expensive, and do not exist in the analysis area or the SBNF. The CDFW estimates the mountain lion population statewide to be about 6,000 conservatively. They estimated the population to be 5,100 adults during the 1970s and 1980s (USFS Forest Plan 2006). Based on records of depredation, attacks on people, and predation on prey populations, it is suspected that the population peaked in 1996, and has been somewhat stable for the past several years (www.dfg.ca.gov/news/issues/lion/lion_faq.html).

Between 2000 and 2008, there were eleven depredation permits issued for mountain lions within San Bernardino County; of those, only 1 mountain lion was taken (http://www.dfg.ca.gov/ news/issues/lion). Human encounters with mountain lions have increased, leading to the belief that mountain lion populations have increased in the past several decades. Currently, there is no information that would lead to a cause for concern for mountain lion populations on the SBNF in the San Garbriel, San Bernardino, or San Jacinto Mountains.

It is unknown how the above numbers relate to mountain lion numbers and trends on SBNF. In general, where mule deer populations are healthy, so are mountain lion populations. The SBNF has some large areas of habitat ideal for supporting mountain lion populations. The analysis area has relatively high levels of development (housing, dogs, and roads). However, it also has large areas with more rugged terrain with lower levels of disturbance and development. It is likely that the analysis area supports a healthy mountain lion population.

Influences to prey, such as hunting or diseases that affect mule deer population numbers, probably have the greatest influences on mountain lion numbers (see mule deer analysis above). Increasing urbanization and agricultural pressure outside the SBNF boundary may reduce deer

Page 199

populations on the surrounding lands off-SBNF. As a result, mountain lions may attack more pets and livestock or otherwise threaten local communities, leading to more depredation killings.

An area of concern has been the continued decline in permeability of the critical landscape linkages from the San Bernardino Mountains to the other adjacent mountain ranges that support mountain lions.

The San Bernardino-San Gabriel Connection (http://www.scwildlands.org/reports.htm) has been severely affected by I-15 freeway, Highway 138, and three railroad tracks. Traffic on all of these continues to increase and improvements such as road widening and adding additional tracks are being planned. Through the Missing Linkage Project and interagency cooperation, studies and mitigation plans are being developed for all of these projects. The SBNF is working with CalTrans on bridges and underpasses as improvements are made to the highways. The SBNF is working with BNSF Railroad to improve underpasses and acquire land critical to lion and other large mammal movement.

The Cajon Pass landscape linkage has been severely degraded (with busy multi-lane freeway and multiple railroad tracks). There are mountain lions killed every year in the Cajon Pass (Villepique, pers. comm. 2013).

The San Bernardino-San Jacinto Connection in San Gorgonio Pass has had less cooperative emphasis from the involved agencies (Forest Service, CalTrans, and Union Pacific Railroad, Morongo Tribe, City of Banning, and Riverside County). The freeway and railroad are some distance from the Forest boundary. The SBNF has met with the Morongo Indian Tribe to discuss the importance of the Pass for wildlife movement as well as feral cattle problems in some riparian areas. The SBNF worked with Riverside County in the preparation of the County Multi- Species Habitat Conservation Plans for Western Riverside County and Coachella Valley. Both of these plans recognized the importance of the Pass as a critical wildlife linkage.

The other important landscape linkage of importance to the mountain lion in the San Bernardino Mountains is the San Bernardino-Little San Bernardino Connection. This connection is quite some distance to the East of the SBNF and primarily involves CalTrans, the Bureau of Land Management, and Joshua Tree National Park. The SBNF participates when workshops on this connection take place and is providing input into the Connection Report.

VI-3.3.2 – Potential Effects to Mountain Lion Habitat – No Action Under the No Action alternative, mountain lion habitat and the issues for which it was chosen as an MIS (habitat linkages/habitat fragmentation) would likely continue to degrade as a result of unauthorized OHV trail use and development. Trail densities would likely increase over time and effects in high quality habitat near water sources and riparian vegetation (where prey species like mule deer prefer) would continue.

VI-3.3.3 – Potential Effects to Mountain Lion Habitat – Proposed Action and Alternative 3 The greatest concern for the long-term health of mountain lion populations on the National Forests of southern California is loss of landscape connectivity between mountain ranges and

Page 200

large blocks of open space on private land (Dickson et al. 2005). This project would not affect landscape connectivity between mountain ranges.

The Proposed Action and Alternative 3 would restore some user-created routes in the analysis area and reduce habitat fragmentation. The overall reduction of trails in the area would be beneficial for the prey base of mule deer. The Proposed Action and Alternative 3 would reduce the disturbance in the area.

VI-3.3.4 – Cumulative Effects to Mountain Lion Habitat See Part II-3.1.3 for a discussion of current and foreseeable future activities.

Several non-Forest Service projects have the potential to affect mountain lion populations in the San Bernardino Mountains. The widening of Highway 138 both east and west of Interstate 15 will reduce the permeability of Cajon Pass for mountain lions. The addition of a new BNSF rail line will also affect this critical landscape linkage. There is potential for a high speed train project through the pass as well as additional widening of I-15. Even though the SBNF is working with the involved agencies to maintain corridors and linkages and valuable underpasses through the pass, the cumulative effect is a reduction in permeability for wildlife.

Planned housing developments in the San Bernardino Mountains will result in increased recreational uses in the analysis area, particularly in some of the more accessible riparian zones that are likely used as movement corridors by mountain lions. Hunting and poaching pressures in the area may also increase as human populations adjacent to the analysis area increase with development, affecting both deer and mountain lion populations. Additionally, associated increases in vehicle traffic will result in more injuries and deaths of deer and mountain lions and reduce the quality of movement corridors that are bisected by busier roadways.

The effects of this project are not expected to add to the cumulative effects for this species.

VI-3.3.5 – Summary - Mountain Lion The mountain lion is a MIS for fragmentation of habitat on the SBNF. The proposed project would not be expected to further fragment mountain lion populations through corridor alteration. The Proposed Action and Alternative 3 would result in restoration of user-created trails resulting in a lower trail density in the Rattlesnake analysis area. This project would be a beneficial effect to the desired condition for Mountain lion habitat on the SBNF and in the National Forest Southern Province.

VI-4.0 – SUMMARY FOR MIS There are three MIS evaluated for the proposed project, song sparrow, mule deer, and mountain lion. These species were selected to assess province-wide effects to riparian habitat (song sparrow), healthy diverse habitat conditions (mule deer), and habitat fragmentation (mountain lions). Due to the habitat improvements through reroutes of trails and closure and restoration of some trails, the Proposed Action and Alternative 3 may positively effect the healthy diverse habitat conditions (mule deer), and riparian habitat (song sparrow). The Proposed Action and Alternative 3 are expected to be neutral to positive for habitat fragmentation (mountain lion).

Page 201

PART VII: NON-NATIVE SPECIES RISK ASSESSMENT

VII-1.0 – INTRODUCTION See Part I of for a description of the Proposed Action and Design Features. The following evaluation addresses the risk on introduction, establishment, and spread of non-native plants (including California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) listed noxious weeds and other invasive non-native plant species) and animals and recommends measures to offset these risks.

Forest Service Manual direction for Invasive Species Management is contained in a new manual section, FSM 2900, effective December 5, 2011. This direction sets forth National Forest System policy, responsibilities, and direction for the prevention, detection, control, and restoration of effects from aquatic and terrestrial invasive species (including vertebrates, invertebrates, plants, and pathogens). See Part I-2.0

VII-2.0 - NON-NATIVE PLANT ASSESSMENT Table 17 displays noxious and other invasive plants addressed in the EIS for SBNF Forest Plan (2006, Table 463) and those species known to occur in or near the analysis areas for this project, or along access routes into the analysis area. All of these species were considered in this analysis.

VII-2.1 – Occurrences of Non-Native Plants in the Analysis area An inventory for noxious and other invasive plant species was performed concurrently with focused rare plant surveys and floristic inventories for this project, as well as for previous projects. The surveys are described in Part I of this document. The surveys that were performed had a moderate likelihood of detecting all target species (including weeds) due to season of surveys and favorable rainfall conditions. Table 17 lists weed species recorded during the surveys, shown in bold type.

There is a potential that other non-native plants occur but were not detected during surveys in the analysis area or on the mitigation parcels.

VII-2.2 – Risk of Introducing and Establishing New Occurrences into Analysis area The risk of transporting new weed infestations into the analysis area is considered high. Mechanized equipment would be used in the project area for trail construction and maintenance, and some restoration work. Areas of ground disturbance caused by ground-based heavy equipment operations are especially vulnerable to establishment and rapid spread of weeds.

VII-2.3 - Risk Assessment of Spread of Existing Populations of Non-Native Plants There is a risk of spreading existing occurrences of non-native plants as a result of soil disturbance associated with either of the action alternatives. Soil disturbance associated with mechanized equipment use would likely lead to an increased prevalence of cheatgrass and other weeds, as well as a risk of new introductions and spread through the use ground-based equipment adjacent to roads (where most infestations start) and continuing away from roads.

Page 202

Table 17. Noxious and Invasive Plant Species Known from the SBNF SPECIES NAME COMMON NAME HABITATS CALIPC CFDA IN LISTING* RATING* PROJECT RED ALERT: Potential To Spread Explosively Centaurea stoebe subsp. micranthos spotted knapweed riparian, grassland, meadows, forest red-alert A Linaria genistifolia subsp. dalmatica Dalmatian toad flax mountain meadows, pebble plains, forest floor red-alert A LIST A-1&2: Most Invasive Ailanthus altissima tree of heaven riparian, grasslands, oak woodlands A-2 C# Arundo donax giant reed riparian A-1 C# Atriplex semibaccata Australian saltbush grasslands, shrublands, alkali wetlands A-2 Brassica tournefortii African mustard washes, alkaline flats, Sonoran desert scrub A-2 Bromus madritensis subsp. rubens red brome shrublands, grasslands, desert scrub A-2 Bromus tectorum cheatgrass sagebrush, pinyon juniper woodlands, etc. A-1 Y Centaurea solstitialis yellow star thistle grasslands A-1 C Cortaderia selloana pampas grass grasslands, wetlands, etc. A-1 Delairea odorata German ivy coastal shrublands, riparian A-1 C# Eichhornia crassipes water hyacinth waterways A-2 Elaegnus angustifolius Russian olive interior riparian A-2 Eucalyptus globulus Tasmanian blue gum riparian, grasslands A-1 Ficus carica edible fig riparian woodlands A-1 Foeniculum vulgare wild fennel grasslands, shrublands A-1 Pennisetum setaceum (A) fountain grass roadsides, grasslands, etc. A-1 Rubus discolor Himalayan blackberry riparian, marshes, woodlands A-1 Saponaria officinalis bouncing bet meadows, riparian A-2 Tamarix chinensis, T. gallica, T. parvifolia, T. tamarisk, salt cedar desert washes, riparian, seeps and springs. A-1 C# ramosissima LIST B: Lesser Invasives Ageratina adenophora eupatory coastal slopes and canyons, riparian B Bassia hyssopifolia bassia alkaline habitats B Brassica nigra black mustard coastal grasslands, disturbed areas B Centaurea militensis tocolote widespread B C# Cirsium vulgare bull thistle riparian, marshes, meadows B C# Conium maculatum poison hemlock riparian, oak woodlands B Festuca arundinacea tall fescue coastal scrub, grasslands B Hedera helix (A) English ivy coastal and mountain forests, riparian B Holcus lanatus velvet grass coastal grasslands, wetlands B Olea europaea olive riparian B Phaliris aquatica harding grass coastal, mesic soils B Potamogeton crispus curlyleaf pondweed ponds, lakes, streams B Ricinus communis castor bean coastal and interior, widespread B Robinia psudoacacia black locust riparian, canyons B Schinus molle Peruvian pepper tree riparian, canyons B Spartium junceum Spanish broom roadsides, canyons, widespread B C# Page 203

Table 17. Noxious and Invasive Plant Species Known from the SBNF SPECIES NAME COMMON NAME HABITATS CALIPC CFDA IN LISTING* RATING* PROJECT Verbascum thapsus woolly mullein widespread B Vinca major periwinkle riparian, oak woodland B Need More Info, and Other Weeds of Note Asphodelus fistulosus asphodel highways Capsella bursa-pastoris shepherd’s purse Carduus pycnocephalus Italian thistle Chenopodium album common lamb’s quarters widespread Cnicus benidictus blessed thistle Convolvulus arvensis field bindweed disturbed areas Cynodon dactylon Bermuda grass Descurainia sophia tansy mustard Mojave desert scrub, desert transition Dimorphotheca sinuata cape marigold sage scrub, alluvial fan scrub Dipsacus fullonum Fuller’s teasel roadsides and other disturbed sites Dipsacus sativus wild teasel roadsides and other disturbed sites Elytrigia elongata tall wheatgrass Elytrigia intermedia Intermediate wheatgrass Meadows, forest floor Erodium botrys storksbill widespread Erodium cicutarium storksbill widespread Y Euphorbia lathyris gopher plant interior sage scrub Hirshfeldia incana shortpod mustard Hordium murinum barley Hypochaeris glabra Smooth cat’s ear Lactuca serriola Prickly lettuce Lathyrus latifolius sweetpea many habitat types Malva neglecta common mallow disturbed roadsides Malva parviflora cheeseweed Nicotiana glauca tree tobacco coastal scrub Lepidium perfoliatum clasping pepperweed open vegetation, clay-rich soils Lunaria annua dollar plant riparian, forest, woodland Medicago polymorpha California bur-clover many habitat types Medicago sativa alfalfa roadside, trailside Medilotus albus white sweet-clover many habitat types Melilotus officinalis yellow sweet-clover many habitat types Mentha spicata var. spicata spearmint streamside Nerium oleander oleander persists/naturalizes in riparian Oxalis pes-capre (A) Bermuda buttercup disturbed grasslands Pennisetum clandestinum Kikuyu grass disturbed sites, roadsides Picris echioides bristly ox-tongue disturbed sites, near Lake Silverwood Piptatherum miliaceum smilo grass creeks and canyons Plantago lanceolata English plantain Page 204

Table 17. Noxious and Invasive Plant Species Known from the SBNF SPECIES NAME COMMON NAME HABITATS CALIPC CFDA IN LISTING* RATING* PROJECT Poa bulbosa bulbous bluegrass conifer forest and grassy mountain areas Polygonum aviculare subsp. depressum oval-leaved knotweed Prunus cerasifera cherry plum oak woodland, riparian Ranunculus testiculatus bur buttercup Rumex crispus curly dock Salsola tragus Russian thistle many habitats Y Salsola paulsenii barbwire Russian thistle Mojave desert scrub, disturbed sites Senecio vulgaris groundsel Silene gallica common catchfly Silybum marianum milk thistle pasturelands, disturbed grasslands Sisymbrium altissimum tumble mustard disturbed places, mainly transmontane Y Sonchus oleraceus sow thistle Tribulus terrestris puncture vine dry disturbed areas dandelion Tragopogon dubius goat’s beard Vulpia myuros rat-tail fescue Xanthium spinosum spiny cocklebur riparian and other wetlands Annual Grasses That Pose Significant Threats Avena barbata slender wild oat coastal slopes, coastal sage scrub, disturbed Avena fatua wild oat coastal slopes, coastal sage scrub, disturbed Bromus diandrus ripgut brome many habitat types Lolium spp. ryegrass Meadows, wetlands. Persists when seeded post-fire Schismus barbatus Mediterranean grass coastal and desert shrublands *California Exotic Pest Plan Council (CEPPC) List Categories: List A: Most Invasive Wildland Pest Plants; documented as aggressive invaders that displace natives and disrupt natural habitats. Includes two sub-lists; List A-1: Widespread pests that are invasive in more than 3 Jepson regions, and List A-2: Regional pests invasive in 3 or fewer Jepson regions List B: Wildland Pest Plants of Lesser Invasiveness; invasive pest plants that spread less rapidly and cause a lesser degree of habitat disruption; may be widespread or regional. Red Alert: Pest plants with potential to spread explosively; infestation currently small or localized. If found, alert Cal IPC, County Agricultural Commissioner or California Department of Food and Agriculture. Need More Information: Plants for which current information does not adequately describe nature of threat to wildlands, distribution or invasiveness. Further information is requested from knowledgeable observers. Annual Grasses: A preliminary list of annual grasses, abundant and widespread in California, that pose significant threats to wildlands. Information is requested to support further definition of this category in next list edition. *California Dept. of Food and Agriculture Pest Ratings: All weeds on California’s 130 plus noxious weed list have a rating. The overall rating system is NOT based on how bad a weed is-all weeds are considered “bad”- but rather on overall distribution throughout the state. Ratings and formal definitions by the CDFA are: A=rated weeds are normally limited in distribution throughout the state. Eradication, containment, rejection or other holding action at the state-county level. Quarantine interceptions to be rejected or threat at any point in the state. B=rated weeds are more widespread. Eradication, containment, control or other holding action at the discretion of the commissioner. State endorsed holding action and eradication only when found in a nursery. C=rated weeds are generally widespread throughout the state. Action to retard spread outside of nurseries at the discretion of the commissioner. Reject only when found in a cropseed for planting or at the discretion of the commissioner. Q=rated species are treated as temporary “A” weeds. Denoting action outside nurseries at the state-county level pending determination of permanent rating. D=rated weeds are organisms considered to be of little or no economic importance. No action. Anything not rated as “A”, “B”, “C”, or “”Q’ is given a “D” rating.

#= plant added to CDFA noxious weed list 8/2003, pest rating not finalized but “C” rating expected.

Page 205

VII-2.4– Measures to Prevent, Control, and Eliminate Non-Native Plant Risks All of the alternatives include Design Features intended to reduce the potential for establishment and/or spread of invasive weeds during implementation of this project:

Application of the Design Features and incorporation of decommissioning and restoration elements of the Proposed Action would reduce the risk of weed introduction and spread as a result of project implementation. These measures are all fully incorporated into the project description. The overall risk of weed introduction is considered moderate with the incorporation of the above measures.

VII-2.5– Risk Determination for Non-Native Plants With the incorporation of the Design Features and monitoring measures into the decision, the risk of invasive plant introduction and spread of weeds would be reduced from a high level of risk to a moderate level of risk. Without the Design Features and monitoring measures, the risk of introduction and spread would remain high.

VII-3.0 - NON-NATIVE ANIMAL AND PATHOGENS ASSESSMENT Table 18 displays a list of non-native animals and pathogens addressed in the EIS for SBNF Forest Plan (2006, Table 464) and those known to occur in or near the analysis areas for this project, or along access routes into the analysis area. All of these species were considered in this analysis.

VII-3.1 – Occurrences of Non-Native Animals and Pathogens in the Analysis area An inventory for non-native animals was performed concurrently with focused wildlife surveys and inventories for this project, as well as for previous projects. The surveys are described in Part I of this document. The surveys that were performed had a moderate likelihood of detecting all target species (including non-native). Table 18 lists non-native animals recorded in the surveyed areas.

There are records for rock pigeon, house sparrow, European starling, brown-headed cowbird, red fox, feral dogs, feral cats, domestic sheep and goats, and wild burros in or directly adjacent to the analysis area.

Surveys were likely not sufficient to detect all non-native animals or pathogens present in the analysis area. Therefore, there is an unknown risk associated with unknown/undetected non- native animals/pathogens.

Page 206

Table 18. Non-Native Animals Known from the SBNF (From SBNF Forest Plan EIS 2006) Scientific Name Common Name Threat Native Species Affected or Other Effects On Occurrence in Level* SBNF** Analysis area Invertebrates Linepithema humile Argentine ant 2 Native ants & species that eat ants, prey base for Y P coast horned lizard & arroyo toad, plant seeds dispersed by native ants Procambarus clarkii Louisiana crayfish 2 Native fish/amphibians Y P @ Coxey Pond Solenopsis invicta Red imported fire ant 1 Small mammals, birds, humans A N Apis mellifera scutellata Africanized honey-bee 4 Native animals, humans A P Apis melliferaspp. European honey bee 3 Native bees Y P Reptiles/Amphibians Rana catesbeiana Bullfrog 1 Native fish/amphibians Y Y @ Coxey Pond Chelydra serpentina Snapping turtle 4 Native fish/amphibians Y N Chrysemys picta, C. Red-eared slider, painted turtle 4 Native fish/amphibians Y P @ Coxey Pond scripta Fish Lepomis spp. Green sunfish, bluegill, 1 Native fish/amphibians, insects Y Y @ Coxey Pond pumpkinseed Micropterus spp. Largemouth and smallmouth bass 1 Native fish/amphibians Y Y @ Coxey Pond Cyprinella lutrensis Red shiner 1 Native fish/amphibians A P @ Coxey Pond Carrasius auratus Goldfish 2 Native fish/amphibians Y Y @ Coxey Pond Cyprinus carpio Carp 2 Native fish/amphibians Y P @ Coxey Pond Pimephales promelas Fathead minnow 2 Native fish/amphibians Y P @ Coxey Pond Ameiurus (Ictalurus)melas Black bullhead catfish 1 Native fish/amphibians, insects Y P @ Coxey Pond Ictalurus punctatus Channel catfish 3 Native fish/amphibians Y P @ Coxey Pond Gambusia afinis Mosquitofish 1 Native fish/amphibians, insects Y P @ Coxey Pond Oncorhynchus mykiss Rainbow trout (stocked) 1,3 Native fish/amphibians Y P @ Coxey Pond Salmo trutta German brown trout 1 Native fish/amphibians Y P @ Coxey Pond Mammals Rattus rattus, R. Black rat, Norway rat 3 Woodrats, mice Y P norvehicus Page 207

Table 18. Non-Native Animals Known from the SBNF (From SBNF Forest Plan EIS 2006) Sus scrofa European boar, feral pig 2 Disrupts habitat, eats many species Y N Vulpes fulva Red fox 1 Small ground dwelling native species Y Y Castor Canadensis Beaver 1 Native vegetation Y N Felis domesticus Feral cat 2 Native birds, reptiles Y P Canis familiaris Feral dog 1 Bighorn sheep, deer Y P Equus cabullus Feral horse 2 Bighorn sheep A N Equus asinus Feral burro 2 Deer Y Y Bos taurus Feral cattle 1 Riparian habitats, desert tortoise Y P Didelphus virginiana Opossum 3,4 Native vegetation and animals Y U Domestic sheep and goats Bighorn sheep Y P Birds Molothrus ater Brown-headed cowbird 1 Riparian dependent birds Y Y Sternus vulgaris European starling 1 Cavity nesting birds Y Y Bibulus ibis Cattle egret 3 Y N Meleagris gallopavo Wild turkey 2 Native vegetation, native birds Y Y Passer domesticus House sparrow 2 Native birds Y Y Columba livia Rock pigeon 2 Native birds Y Y * Threat Level ** Occurrence 1- serious, documented threat to sensitive species or ecosystems; A=Known from sites adjacent to SBNF, reasonable to expect to invade 2-moderate threat to native species or ecosystems; Forest ecosystems within next 5 years. 3-benign, low risk; Y=Known occurrences on the SBNF 4-potential threat, but impacts not well documented. P=Potential U=Unlikely Species with multiple threat levels are considered a threat in some areas, but not a problem in other areas.

Page 208

VII-3.2 – Risk of Introducing and Establishing New Occurrences into Analysis area The risk of introducing and establishing new occurrences of non-native animals in the analysis area is considered low. The types of activities proposed are unlikely to attract new non-native animals that are considered threats at the time of this analysis.

VII-3.3 - Risk Assessment of Spread of Existing Populations of Non-Native Animals The non-native species known from the analysis area include rock pigeon, European startling, house sparrow, and brown-headed cowbirds, feral/domestic dogs, feral/domestic cats, burro, and domestic sheep and goats. All of these species have negative effects on native animals by competition for limited resources (e.g., food, nest sites, etc.) and/or acting aggressively toward native species (e.g., displacing, killing, preying upon, etc.).

Brown-headed cowbirds pose the greatest threat to nesting native birds due to nest parasitism (i.e., laying their eggs in the nest of other birds). Brown-headed cowbird parasitism has contributed to the decline of a number of rare species, including federally-endangered least Bell’s vireo and southwestern willow flycatcher. European starlings aggressively out-compete native birds for nesting cavities (http://www.aphis.usda.gov/wildlife_damage/nwrc/publications/ 05pubs/avery053.pdf). House sparrows aggressively defend their nesting territories, often destroying eggs and chicks of native birds and also killing adults defending young (http://www.mdinvasivesp.org/archived_invaders/archived_invaders_2006_03.html; http://www.aphis.usda.gov/wildlife_damage/nwrc/publications/05pubs/avery053.pdf). Large flocks of seed eaters such as rock pigeons, house sparrows, and European starlings may affect native plant populations.

The establishment of trailering sites/staging areas as described in the Proposed Action could increase the likelihood of spread of the urban birds mentioned above. However, the Design Features include measures prohibiting litter and feeding animals at the site and that should help reduce the likelihood of establishment.

VII-3.5– Risk Determination for Non-Native Animals There is a very low risk of introduction, establishment, or spread of non-native animals or pathogens in the analysis area.

VII-4.0 – SUMMARY OF RISK FROM NON-NATIVE SPECIES The risk from currently known non-native animals and pathogens would not be expected to change from the current risk levels in the analysis area.

The risk of invasive plant species introduction and spread would be increased along new construction trails. It would be reduced for existing unauthorized trails proposed to be brought in to the transportation system, due to increased monitoring and capability for early detection and response. While restoration activities with mechanized equipment poses a short term increased risk of introduction, design features requiring equipment arrive clean would minimize the risk. Longer term, to the extent successful, restoration would reduce weed risk by returning invasion- prone disturbance corridors to more resistant native vegetation.

REFERENCES

Baicich, P.J., and Harrison, C.J.O. 1997. A guide to the nests, eggs, and nestlings of North American birds. 2d ed. San Diego, CA: Academic Press.

Ballard, G, and G.R. Geupel. 1998. Songbird monitoring on the San Luis National Wildlife Refuge 1995-1997. Report to the US Fish and Wildlife Service. PRBO.

Beier, P. and S. Loe. 1992. A checklist for evaluating impacts to wildlife movement corridors. Wildlife Society Bulletin 20:434-440.

Bleich, V. C., R. T. Bowyer, and J. D. Wehausen. 1997. Sexual segregation in mountain sheep: resources or predation? Wildlife Monographs 3-50.

Bleich, V. C. 2010. Development of the Cushenbury South Quarry: Potential Environmental Impacts to Nelson’s Bighorn Sheep and Suggested Mitigation. Prepared for Mitsubishi Cement Corporation. September 2010. 48 pp.

Burwell, T.A. 1999. Environmental History of the Lower Montane Pinyon (Pinus monophylla) Treeline, Eastern California. Madison WI: University of Wisconsin, Madison. Dissertation.

California Consortium of Herbaria (CCH). 2013. http://ucjeps.berkeley.edu/consortium/

CalPIF. 2002. The Coniferous Forest Bird Conservation Plan; a Strategy for Protecting and Managing Coniferous Forest Habitats and Associated Birds in California. Version 1.0. USDA Forest Service, Klamath Bird Observatory and Point Reyes Bird Observatory.

CalPIF. 2004. The Riparian Bird Conservation Plan: a strategy for reversing the decline of riparian associated birds in California. Version 2.0.

CNNDB. The California Natural Diversity Data Base. California Dept. of Fish and Game, Natural Heritage Program. Accessed database January 2013.

CNPS. 2013. Inventory of Rare and Endangered Plants (online edition - http://www.rareplants.cnps.org/). California Native Plant Society. Sacramento, CA.

CDFW (California Department of Fish and Wildlife). 2003. Deer Hunting Draft Environmental Document, February 3, 2003. State of California, The Resources Agency, Department of Fish and Game. 269 pp + appendices.

Craig, D. and P. L. Williams. 1998. Willow Flycatcher (Empidonax traillii). In The Riparian Bird Conservation Plan: a strategy for reversing the decline of riparian-associated birds in

California. California Partners in Flight. http://www.prbo.org/calpif/htmldocs/riparian_v- 2.html

DeLong, J. P. 2004. Effects of management practices on grassland birds: Golden Eagle. Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center, Jamestown, ND. 22 pages.

Dunne, P.; Sibley, D.; Sutton, C. 1988. Hawks in flight: The flight identification of North American raptors. Boston, MA: Houghton Mifflin.

Epps, C. W., J. D. Wehausen, P. J. Palsbøll, and D. R. McCullough. 2010. Using genetic tools to track desert bighorn sheep colonizations. Journal of Wildlife Management 74:522- 531.

Ferguson-Lees, J.; Christie, D.A. 2001. Raptors of the world. Boston, MA: Houghton Mifflin Company.

Garrett, K. and Dunn, J. 1981. Birds of southern California: Status and distribution. Los Angeles, CA: Los Angeles Audubon Society.

Hayes, C. L., E. S. Rubin, M. C. Jorgensen, R. A. Botta, and W. M. Boyce. 2000. Mountain lion predation of bighorn sheep in the Peninsular Ranges, California. Journal of Wildlife Management 64:954-959.

Hurt, Carla R. 2004. Genetic divergence, population structure and historical demography of rare springsnails (Pyrgulopsis) in the lower Colorado River basin. Molecular Ecology 13, 1173-1187.

Jennings, M.R., and Hayes, M.P. 1994. Amphibian and reptile species of special concern in California. Final report to the California Department of Fish and Game, Inland Fisheries Division, Rancho Cordova, CA, under contract 8023. 255 pp.

Johnsgard, P.A. 1990. Hawks, eagles, and falcons of North America. Washington, DC: Smithsonian Institution Press.

Jones, L.C. and R. E. Lovich. 2009. Lizards of the American Southwest: A Photographic Field Guide. Rio Nuevo Publishers. Tucson, AZ. 567 pp.

Kielhold, P. 1993. Cushenbury Springs Resource Management Plan. Prepared for Mitsubishi Cement Corporation by Lilburn Corporation. January 1993. 20 pp.

Knight, R.L. and K.J. Gutzwiller, eds. 1995. Wildlife and recreationists: coexistence through management and research. Island Press. Washington, DC. 373 pp.

Kochert, M. N., and K. Steenhof. 2002. Golden eagles in the U.S. and Canada: status, trends, and conservation challenges. Journal of Raptor Research 36(1 Suppl.): 32–40.

Koniak 1982. Seed reserves in soils of successional stages of pinyon woodlands. American Midland Naturalist. 108: 295-303.

Lilburn Corporation. 2013. Biological Resources Assessment For The Direct Land Sale Omya White Knob Quarry. Prepared For: Omya California. February 2013. 55 Pp.

Mabee, T.J., L.B. Rodman-Jaramillo, and N.A. Schwab. May 2014. An acoustic study of bat activity at the proposed North Peak Wind Energy project, California, 2013-2013. Draft Report prepared for E.ON Climate and Renewables, NA. ARB, Inc.-Environmental Research and Services. 35 pp.

Millsap, B., G. Zimmerman, J. Sauer, R. Nielson, M. Otto, E. Bjerre, R. Murphy. 2013. The Journal of Wildlife Management 77(7):1436–1448. DOI: 10.1002/jwmg.588

Myers, Stephen J. 1988. Mining Company Leased Holdings in the San Bernardino National Forest: Avian Surveys During the 1988 Breeding Season. 15 pp.

Myers, Stephen J. 2005. Email titled “Cushenbury Results” to David Rib. Email dated 1/25/2006 11:26 am.

NatureServe. 2003. NatureServe Explorer: An online encyclopedia of life [web application]. Version 1.8. NatureServe, Arlington, Virginia. (Accessed: July 25, 2003).

Nicholson, M. C., R. T. Bowyer, and J. G. Kie. 1997. Habitat selection and survival of mule deer: tradeoffs associated with migration. Journal of Mammalogy 78:483-504.

Norrix, L. W., D. W. DeYoung, P. R. Krausman, R. C. Etchberger, and T. J. Glattke. 1995. Conductive hearing loss in bighorn sheep. Journal of Wildlife Diseases 31:223-227.

Pagel, J.E., K. Kritz, B. Millsap, R. Murphy. 2013. Bald Eagle And Golden Eagle Mortalities At Wind Energy Facilities In The Contiguous United States. Journal of Raptor Research. 47(3): 311-315.

Papenfuss, T.J. and J.F. Parham. 2013. Four New Species Of California Legless Lizards (Anniella). Breviora – Museum of Comparative Zoology. Number 536. 17 pp.

Pratt, Gordon. 2004. Two Rare Endemic Butterflies at Coxey Meadow. Report for the Mountaintop District of the San Bernardino National Forest. October 30, 2004. 25 pp.

Pratt, G. F., and J. F. Emmel. 1998. Revision of Euphilotes enoptes and E. battoides complexes (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae). In T. C. Emmel (ed.), Systematics of western North American butterflies. Gainesville, FL: Mariposa Press.

Rideout, B., I. Stalis, R. Papendick, A. Pessier, B. Puschner, M. Finkelstein, D. Smith, M. Johnson, M. Mace, R. Stroud, J. Brandt, J. Burnett, C. Parish, J. Petterson, C. Witte, C.

Stringfield, K. Orr, J. Zuba, M. Wallace, J. Grantham. 2012. Patterns of Mortality in Free-Ranging California Condors. Journal of Wildlife Diseases: 48 (1) 95-112.

Ruddock, M. and D.P. Whitfield. 2007. A review of disturbance distances in selected bird species. A report from Natural Research Projects LTD to Scottish Natural Heritage. 113 pp.

SBCM (San Bernardino County Museum). 2004 - 2009. Annual reports for suitability surveys and GIS layers for Mountaintop Ranger District. Unpublished.

Scott, J. A. 1986. The butterflies of North America. Stanford, CA: Stanford University Press.

Stebbins, R.C. 1985. A field guide to western amphibians and reptiles. 2d ed. New York, NY: Houghton Mifflin Company.

Stebbins, R.C. 2003. A field guide to western amphibians and reptiles. 3rd ed. New York, NY: Houghton Mifflin Company.

Stebbins, R.C. and McGinnis, S.M. 2012. Field Guide to Amphibians and Reptiles of California, Revised Edition. California Natural History Guides. University of California Press. 535 pp.

Stephenson, J.R. and G.M. Calcarone. 1999. Southern California mountains and foothills assessment: habitat and species conservation issues. General Technical Report GTR- PSW-172. Albany, CA: Pacific Southwest Research Station, Forest Service, USDA.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 1994. Final Rule for Determination of Critical Habitat for the Mojave Population of the Desert Tortoise. Federal Register Vol. 59, No. 26. 2/8/1994.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 2000. Biological Opinion on the Effects of Ongoing Forest Activities that May Affect Listed Riparian Species. Carlsbad, CA. 96 pp.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 2001a. Biological and conference opinion on the Continued Implementation of Land and Resource Management Plans for four Southern California National Forests, as Modified by New Interim Management Direction and Conservation Measures. Carlsbad, CA. 366 pp. (1-6-00-F-773.2). Dated February 27, 2001.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 2001b. Formal Section 7 Consultation on Various Ongoing and Related Activities Affecting Pebble Plains, San Bernardino County, California (1-6-99-F-25). February 14 2001.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 2001c. Formal Section 7 Consultation on Various Ongoing and Related Activities Affecting Carbonate Habitats, San Bernardino County, California (1-6-99-F-26). February 5 2001.

U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 2005. Biological and Conference Opinions on the Revised Land and Resource Management Plans for the Four Southern California National Forests, California. 1-6-05-F733.9. Dated Sept. 15, 2005

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 2011. Revised Recovery Plan for the Mojave Population of Desert Tortoise (Gopherus agassizii). Region 8, Pacific Southwest Region, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Sacramento, CA. 5/6/2011. 228 pp.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2013a. Formal Section 7 Consultation for Ongoing Activities that Affect Desert Tortoise on the San Bernardino National Forest, Front Country and Mountaintop Ranger Districts, San Bernardino County, California. FWS-SB-13B0290- 13F0277. Dated May 10, 2013.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 2013b. Conference Opinion for Ongoing Activities in the San Bernardino National Forest – Coastal California Gnatcatcher: FWS-SB- 13B)247-1310210. Letter dated April 12, 2013.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 2013c. Biological Opinion for Ongoing Activities in the San Bernardino National Forest – Peninsular Bighorn Sheep; FWS-ERIV-13B0044- 1310242. Letter dated May 13, 2013.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 2013d. Formal Section 7 Consultation for Ongoing Activities that Affect Quino Checkerspot Butterfly on the San Bernardino National Forest, San Jacinto Ranger District, Riverside County, California. FWS-WRIV - 12B0007 -12FOO 10

U.S. Forest Service (USFS). 1985. Habitat Management Guide for Southern Rubber Boa on the San Bernardino National Forest.

U.S. Forest Service (USFS). 1998. Biological Assessment for the San Bernardino National Forest Problem Areas for Riparian Obligate Species. San Bernardino National Forest.

U.S. Forest Service (USFS). 1999a. Biological Assessment for carbonate endemic plants. San Bernardino National Forest.

U.S. Forest Service (USFS). 1999b. Biological Assessment for the pebble plain plants. San Bernardino National Forest.

U.S. Forest Service (USFS). 1999c. Biological Assessment for meadow plant species. San Bernardino National Forest.

U.S. Forest Service (USFS). 2000. Southern California Conservation Strategy Province Consultation package. Programmatic Consultation for the Existing Forest Plans for the Four Southern CA Forests.

U. S. Forest Service (USFS). 2004. Programmatic Biological Assessment for Hazardous Fuels Management Projects on the San Bernardino National Forest, dated 12/22/04. San Bernardino National Forest.

U. S. Forest Service (USFS). 2005a. Biological Assessment for the Revised Land Management Plans, dated March 18, 2005.

U.S. Forest Service (USFS). 2005c. FEIS: Land Management Plan for the Angeles, Cleveland, Los Padres, and San Bernardino National Forests. R5-MB-074-B. September 2005.

U.S. Forest Service (USFS). 2006. San Bernardino National Forest Land Management Plan. Pacific Southwest Region. Forest Planning Record: Species Accounts. www.fs.fed.us/r5/scfpr.

U.S. Forest Service. 2012. Biological Assessment of Ongoing Activities that affect Twelve Mountain Plants. December 2012. San Bernardino National Forest.

U.S. Forest Service. 2013. Updated Species Accounts for Sensitive Plants. On file, San Bernardino National Forest.

Villepique, J. T., B. M. Pierce, V. C. Bleich, and R. T. Bowyer. 2011. Diet of cougars (Puma concolor) following a decline in a population of mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus): lack of evidence for switching prey. The Southwestern Naturalist 56:187–192.

Wangler, M. and R. A. Minnich. 1996, Fire and succession in Pinyon-Juniper woodlands of the San Bernardino Mountains, California. Madroño, v. 43 p. 493-514.

Wells, William. 2015. Rattlesnake Mountain OHV Trails Project Hydrology and Soils Report. San Bernardino National Forest.

White, S. 2000. Proposed Mitsubishi Cement Corporation Quarry Expansion: Biological Technical Report. White and Leatherman Bioservices. Prepared for Lilburn Corporation. 12/26/2000.

Zeiner, D.C., W.F. Laudenslayer Jr., K.E. Mayer, M. White, eds. 1990. California's wildlife. Volume II: Birds. Sacramento, CA: California Statewide Wildlife Habitat Relationships System, California Department of Fish and Game.

Personal Communications Borchert, Mark. 2013. Retired Forest Service ecologist for the Southern Province. Personal communication with Robin Eliason.

Braden, Gerald. 2013. Former zoological curator at San Bernardino County Museum. Personal communication with Robin Eliason.

Chatman, Greg, personal communication with Kim Boss (SBNF wildlife biologist, Front Country Ranger District). June 2009 on surveys conducted for arrowhead blue butterfly; June 15, 2009. Amateur lepidopterist with extensive knowledge of local butterflies and FWS permit holder for Quino Checkerspot Butterfly.

Goodward, Dave. 2013. Herpetologist. Personal communication with Robin Eliason. Email dated 2/1/13.

J&J Restoration. 2013. Personal communication with Robin Eliason. Emails and data records for cameras at wildlife drinkers.

Opler, P. A., H. Pavulaan, and R. E. Stanford (coordinators). 1995. Butterflies of North America. Jamestown, ND: Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center Home Page. (Version 30DEC2002).

Pagel, Joel. 2013 and 2014. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Biologist at Carlsbad office. Personal communication with Robin Eliason (email, conversations, and review of the golden eagle portions of this document).

Pratt, Gordon. Professor at University of California-Riverside. Personal communication to Robin Butler Eliason, San Bernardino National Forest biologist, 2001 and 2011.

Pratt, Gordon. Professor at University of California-Riverside. 2003. E-mail communication to Jan Beyers, plant ecologist, Forest Plan Revision Interdisciplinary Team, July 2003.

Villepique, Jeff. 2013 and 2014. California Department of Fish and Wildlife Biologist. Personal communication with Robin Eliason (email, conversations, and review of the bighorn sheep, mule deer, and mountain lion portions of this document).

APPENDIX A: FLORAL AND FAUNAL COMPLENDIUM

Table 1. Plants Known from the Rattlesnake Project Area Family Genus Species var/ssp Name Common Name Adoxaceae Sambucus sp. elderberry Agavaceae Yucca schidigera Mojave yucca Agavaceae Hesperoyucca whipplei chaparral yucca Agavaceae Yucca brevifolia Joshua tree Apiaceae Lomatium parryii Utah desertparsley Apiaceae Tauschia parishii Asclepiadaceae Asclepias californica California milkweed Gutierrezia sp. snakeweed Asteraceae Encelia actoni Acton encelia Asteraceae Chrysothamnus nauseosus rubber rabbit brush Asteraceae Artemisia tridentata big sagebrush Asteraceae Erigeron sp. fleabane Asteraceae Tetradymia comosa cotton thorn Asteraceae Chrysothamnus viscidifolia sticky leaved rabbitbrush Asteraceae Anisocoma acaulis scale bud Asteraceae Syntrichopappus lemmonii Lemmon's syntrichopappus Asteraceae Leptosyne bigloveii Bigelow coreopsis Asteraceae Layia glandulosa whitedaisy tidytips Asteraceae Eriophyllum confertiflorum var. confertiflorum golden yarrow Asteraceae Eriophyllum wallacei Wallace's woolly daisy Asteraceae Cirsium occidentale cobweb thistle Asteraceae Iva axillaris povertyweed Asteraceae Chaenactis santolinoides Santolina pincushion Boraginaceae Phacelia curvipes Washoe phacelia Boraginaceae Cryptantha micrantha purple root cryptantha Boraginaceae Nama rothrockii Rothrock's nama Boraginaceae Phacelia cicutaria caterpillar phacelia Brassicaceae Boechera dispar pinyon rock cress Brassicaceae Boechera parishii Parish's rock cress Brassicaceae Boechera shockleyi Shockley's rock cress Brassicaceae Boechera pulchra beautiful rockcress Brassicaceae Sisymbirum altissimum tumble mustard Brassicaceae Erysimum capitatum western wallflower Brassicaceae Boechera sp. rockcress Brassicaceae Nasturtium officinale watercress Brassicaceae Caulanthus major slender wild cabbage Cactaceae Echinocereus engallmannii Munz's hedgehog cactus Cactaceae Echinocereus mojavensis Mojave kingcup cactus Cactaceae Opuntia basilaris beavertail pricklypear Cactaceae Artemisia dranunculus tarragon Cactaceae Opuntia sp. pricklypear Caprofoliaceae Symphoricarpos sp. trailing snowberry Caryophyllaceae Eriastrum sp. woollystar Caryophyllaceae Eremogone macradenia Mojave sandwort Chenoppodiaceae Salsola tragus Russian thistle Convolvulaceae Calystegia sp. false bindweed Dudleya abramsii var. afinis San Bernardino Mountains live forever Cupressaceae Juniperus osteosperma Utah juniper Cupressaceae Juniperus grandis Grand juniper Cyperaceae Carex sp. sedge Ephedraceae Ephedra sp. jointfir manzanita Euphorbiaceae Chamaescye albomarginata whitemargin sandmat Euphorbiaceae Chaemsyces albomarginata rattlesnake weed Fabaceae Astragalus lentiginosus var. sierrae San Bernardino Mountains milkvetch Fabaceae Astragalus douglasii var. parishii milkvetch

Appendix A – Page 1

APPENDIX A: FLORAL AND FAUNAL COMPLENDIUM

Table 1. Plants Known from the Rattlesnake Project Area Family Genus Species var/ssp Name Common Name Fabaceae Astragalus bicristatus crested milk vetch Fabaceae Lupinus andersonii Anderson's lupine Fabaceae Lupinus excubitus grape soda lupine Fabaceae Lotus sp. trefoil Fabaceae Rupertia rigida Parish's psoralea Fagaceae Quercus kelloggii black oak Fagaceae Quercus chrysolepis interior live oak Fagaceae Quercus palmeri desert oak Geraniaceae Erodium cicutarium redstem filaree Grossulariaceae Ribes sp. gooseberry Hydrophyllaceae Eriodictyon parryi poodle-dog bush Hydrophyllaceae Eriodictyon trichocalyx hairy yerba santa Hydrophyllaceae Phacelia fremontii Fremont's phacelia Salvia dorrii purple sage Lamiaceae Salvia columbariae chia Lamiaceae Scutellaria siphocampyloides gray leaved skullcap Lamiaceae Monardella linoides narrow leaved monardella Lecanoraceae Rhizoplaca chrysoleuca golden rimmed navel lichen Liliaceae Calochortus invenustus plain mariposa lily Liliaceae Calochortus palmeri var. palmeri Palmer's mariposa lily Liliaceae Calochortus kennedyi desert mariposa lily Liliaceae Allium sp. onion Loasaceae Mentzelia sp. blazingstar Loniceraceae Symphoricarpos rotundifolius snowberry Malvaceae Sidalcea hickmanii subsp. parishii Parish's checkerbloom Malvaceae Sphaeralcea ambigua desert globemallow Lewisia redeviva subsp. minor bitter root Montiaceae Calyptridium sp. pussypaws Montiaceae Claytonia sp. springbeauty Montiaceae Calyptridium umbellatum Mt. Hood pussy paws Nyctaginaceae Abronia nana var. covillei Coville's dwarf sand verbena Oleaceae Forestiera pubescens desert olive Onagraceae Oenothera sp. evening primrose Onagraceae Oenothera deltoides dune primrose Castilleja plagiotoma Mojave Indian paintbrush Orobanchaceae Castilleja applegatei var. martinii wavyleaf indian paintbrush Orobanchaceae Orobanche sp. broomrape golden eardrops Papaveraceae Argemone munita prickly poppy Papaveraceae Platystemon californicus cream cups Pinaceae Pinus monophylla pinyon pine Pinaceae Pinus jeffreyi Jeffrey pine Plantaginaceae Penstemon grinellei Grinnell's beardtongue Plantaginaceae Penstemon eatonii Eaton's penstemon Stipa speciosa desert needle grass Poaceae Stipa hymneoides Indian rice grass Poaceae Bromus tectorum cheatgrass Poaceae Elymus elymoides squirreltail Poaceae Bouteloua curtipendula ssp Melica stricta …. Poaceae Melica imperfecta California melic Poaceae Poa secunda Sandburg bluegrass Gilia sp. gilia Polemoniaceae Gilia sp. gilia Polemoniaceae Phlox dolichantha Big Bear valley phlox Polemoniaceae Saltugilia splendens splendid gilia Polemoniaceae Linanthus pungens granite prickly phlox Polemoniaceae Leptosiphon breviculus Mojave linanthus

Appendix A – Page 2

APPENDIX A: FLORAL AND FAUNAL COMPLENDIUM

Table 1. Plants Known from the Rattlesnake Project Area Family Genus Species var/ssp Name Common Name Eriogonum microthecum var corymbosoides San Bernardino buckwheat Polygonaceae Eriogonum fasciculatum var polifolium Eastern Mojave buckwheat Polygonaceae Eriogonum kennedyi var. kennedyi Kennedy's buckwheat Polygonaceae Eriogonum ovalifolium var. vineum Cushenbury buckwheat Polygonaceae Eriogonum parishii mountainmist Polygonaceae Acanthoscyphus parishii var. goodmaniana Cushenbury oxytheca Pteridaceae Pellaea sp. cliffbrake Ranunculaceae Delphinium sp. larkspur Ranunculaceae Delphinium sp. larkspur Rhamnaceae Ceanothus cordulatus whitethorn Rhamnaceae Ceanothus perplexans cupped leaf ceanothus Amelanchier alnifolia service berry Rosaceae Cercocarpos ledifolius curl-leaf mountain mahogany Rosaceae Prunus fasciculata desert almond Rosaceae Prunus sp. cherry Rosaceae Purshia tridentata antelope bitterbrush Rosaceae Rosa sp. rose Rosaceae Cercrocarpos betuloides birch leaf mountain mahogany Rubiaceae Galium angustifolium narrow leaved bedstraw Rubiaceae Galium sp. bedstraw Salicaceae Salix sp. willow Scrophulariaceae Scrophularia californica California fogwort Solanaceae Nicotiana attenuata coyote tobacco Solanaceae Solanum xanti purple nightshade Teloschistaceae Caloplaca sp. orange lichen Urticaceae Urtica dioica stinging nettle Viola sp. violet Viscaceae Phoradendron serotinum ssp tometosum Pacific mistletoe Viscaceae Phoradendron bolleanum mistletoe

Table 2. Animals Known from in or near the Rattlesnake Project Area Common Name Latin Name Data Source Fish goldfish Carassius auratus USFS largemouth bass Micropterus salmoides USFS partailly armoured threespine stickleback Gasterosteus aculeatus USFS blue gill Lepomis macrochirus USFS Reptiles/Amphibians bull frog Rana catesbeiana USFS california chorus frog Pseudacris cadaverina USFS coast horned lizard Phrynosoma blainvillii USFS coastal whiptail Cnemidophorus tigris multiscutatus USFS common kingsnake lampropeltis getula USFS gopher snake Pituophis catenifer USFS Granite spiney lizard Sceloperous orcutti USFS Large blotch ensatina Ensatina eschscholtzii klauberi USFS mountain garter snake Thamnophis elegans elagans USFS pacific chorus frog Pseudacris regilla USFS san bernardino mountian kingsnake Lampropeltis zonata parvirubra USFS san diego alligator lizard Elgaria multicarinata webbii USFS southern pacific rattlesnake Crotalus oreganus helleri USFS southern sagebrush lizard Sceloporus graciosus vandenburgianus USFS striped racer Masticophis lateralis USFS two-striped garter snake Thamnophis hammondii USFS western fence lizard Sceloporus occidentalis USFS western patchnose snake Salvadora hexalepis USFS western skink Eumeces skiltonianus USFS

Appendix A – Page 3

APPENDIX A: FLORAL AND FAUNAL COMPLENDIUM

Table 2. Animals Known from in or near the Rattlesnake Project Area Common Name Latin Name Data Source western toad Bufo boreas USFS zebratail lizard cCallisaurus draconoides USFS Birds Acorn woodpecker Melanerpes formicivorus USFS American dipper Cinclus mexicanus USFS American goldfinch Carduelis tristis USFS (Coxey) American kestrel Falco sparverius USFS Anna's hummingbird Calypte anna Ash-throated flycatcher Myiarchus cinerascens USFS Bald Eagle Haliaeetus leucocephalus Coxey pond (day roost) black pheobe Sayanornis nigricans USFS black swift Cypseloides niger USFS black-crowned night heron Nycticorax nycticorax USFS black-throated sparrow Amphispiza bilineata USFS Black-headed grossbeak Pheucticus melanocephalus USFS brewer's blackbird Euphagus cyanocephalus USFS Brewer's sparrow Spizella breweri USFS bullock's oriole Icterus bullockii USFS (coxey) bushtit Psaltriparus minimus USFS California Spotted owl Strix occidentalis occidentalis USFS california thrasher Toxostoma redivivum USFS california towhee Papilo crissalis USFS canyon wren Catharpes mexicanus USFS chukar Alectoris chukar USFS (3N17 area) clark's nutcraker Nucifraga columbiana USFS (3N17 area) common poorwill Phalaenoptilus nuttallii USFS common raven Corvus corax USFS cooper's hawk Accipiter cooperii USFS Golden Eagle Aquila chrysaetos USFS gray vireo Vireo vicinior USFS great blue heron Ardea herodias USFS great egret Ardea alba USFS great horned owl Bubo virginianus USFS Greater roadrunner Geococcyx californicus USFS hairy woodpecker Picoides villosus USFS house finch Carpodacus mexicanus USFS House wren Troglodytes aedon USFS lark sparrow Chondestes grammacus USFS lawrence's goldfinch carduelis lawrencei USFS loggerhead shrike Lanius ludovicianus USFS Macgillivrays warbler Opornis tolmiei USFS (Holcomb) mallard Anas platyrhynchos USFS merlin Falco columbarius USFS (Eliason, pers. obs) mountain chickadee poecile gambeli USFS mountain quail Oreortyx pictus USFS Mourning dove Zenaida macroura USFS northern saw-whet owl Aegolius acadicus USFS nothern flicker Colaptes auratus USFS oak titmouse Baeolophus inoratus USFS olive sided flycatcher Contopus cooperi USFS pacific slope flycatcher Empidonax difficilis USFS pinyon jay Gymnorhinus cyanocephalus USFS prairie falcon falco mexicanus USFS (Dry canyon) Red tailed hawk Buteo jamaicensis USFS red-breasted sapsucker Sphyrapicus ruber USFS red-naped sapsucker Sphyrapicus nuchalis USFS red-shouldered hawk Buteo lineatus USFS

Appendix A – Page 4

APPENDIX A: FLORAL AND FAUNAL COMPLENDIUM

Table 2. Animals Known from in or near the Rattlesnake Project Area Common Name Latin Name Data Source red-winged blackbird Agelaius phoeniceus USFS rock wren Salpinctes obsoletus USFS rufous hummingbird Selasphorus rufus USFS (Holcomb) Scott's oriole Icterus parisorum USFS (Dawn-o-day) song sparrow Melospiza melodia USFS (coxey) southwest willow flycatcher Empidonax traillii USFS spotted towhee Papilo maculatus USFS stellers jay Cyanocitta stelleri USFS swainson's hawk Buteo sawainsoni USFS turkey vulture cathartes aura USFS violet green swallow Tachycineta thalassina USFS western bluebird Salia mexicana USFS western screech owl Megascops kennicottii USFS Western scrub-jay Aphelocoma californica USFS western wood peewee Contopus sordidulus USFS white breated nuthatch Sitta carolinenis USFS white-tailed kite Elanus leucurus USFS Wilson's warbler wilsonia pusilla USFS(Holcomb) wrentit Chamaea fasciata USFS Yellow warbler Dendroica petechia USFS (Crystal creek) yellow-headed blackbird Xanthocephalus xanthocephalus USFS (Coxey) Mammals American badger Taxidea taxus CNDDB (no specific area, north of lake arrowhead) antilope ground squirrel Ammospermophilus leucurus USFS Big Brown bat Eptesicus fuscus USFS black bear Ursus americanus USFS black tailed jack rabbit Lepus canifornicus USFS bobcat lynx rufus USFS brazilian free-tailed bat Tadarida brasiliensis USFS brush rabbit Sylvilagus bachmani USFS burro Equus asinus USFS CA meadow vole Microtus californicus USFS california ground squirrel Spermophilus beecheyi USFS california myotis myotis californicus USFS cottontail rabbit Sylvilagus audubonii USFS coyote canis latrans USFS deer mouse Peromyscus maniculatus USFS fringed myotis Myotis thysanodes ABR_north peak bat study gray fox Urocyon cinereoargenteus usfs hoary bat Lasiurus blossevillii ABR_north peak bat study little brown bat Myotis lucifugus usfs lodgepole chipmunk Tamias speciosus USFS long eared bat Myotis evotis ABR_north peak bat study long-legged bat Myotis volans ABR_north peak bat study merriams chipmunk Tamias merriami USFS mountain lion Puma concolor USFS mule deer Odocoileus hemionus USFS pacific kangaroo rat Dipodomys agilis USFS Pallid bat Antrozous pallidus usfs silver-haired bat Lasionycteris noctivagans ABR_north peak bat study townsend's big eared bat Corynorhinus townsendii ABR_north peak bat study western mastiff/greater bonneted bat Eumops perotis ABR_north peak bat study, USFS western pipistrelle/canyon bat Pipistrellus hesperus usfs western red bat Lasiurus humilis usfs western small-footed bat Myotis ciliolabrum ABR_north peak bat study yuma bat Myotis yumanensis ABR_north peak bat study

Appendix A – Page 5

APPENDIX B: GUIDELINES TO REDUCE/PREVENT SPREAD OF INVASIVE AQUATIC ORGANISMS

Background: Amphibian populations are declining rapidly throughout the world. One factor in amphibian declines is emerging infectious diseases such as chytrid fungus (Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis). One possible means of spreading a pathogen from site to site is on biologist’s nets, boots, waders and any equipment that has been in contact with the water or mud. Therefore extra precautions must be taken to reduce the possibility of spreading this or other pathogens. The best prevention is to thoroughly clean and dry all gear before moving on to another site, especially another creek. If that is not possible and you are planning to be in the water in two or more different drainages in one day try to have two sets of clean dry gear.

Knowing that it is not always possible to have clean and dry gear for every site that may need to be visited in a day, we have developed the following procedures to minimize our potential for spreading of disease. These procedures should be followed when using the same equipment from site to site, even if no pathogens have been previously detected at a site. This sterilization practice is a standard procedure for all surveys (including fish, wildlife, and botany) in creeks, it is not optional.

Disinfect All Equipment:  If you must use the same gear between watersheds - remove all mud and soak wet gear in Sparquat solution between sites (see instructions below).  Disinfect all equipment before leaving any site (or prior to going in the field if equipment sanitation history is unknown). Wash first to remove all clumps of dirt etc., then disinfect with Sparquat solution.  Wash and completely dry your field clothes after each field day.  Tires and wheels on your vehicle count as field gear to be considered if they get wet or muddy. Wash and completely dry vehicle one day before driving to an area with a stream crossing and/or after vehicle has driven through a stream crossing where Chytrid is known to occur.

Instructions for using Sparquat 256™:

 Remove all mud and debris possible from gear  Empty one 4 ounce sample bottle filled with Sparquat 256™ to 2.5 gallons of water (1.2% solution*).  Completely immerse all wet gear for one minute**  Can reuse solution until it becomes highly diluted or muddied.  When done with the dilute solution, toss it out on the road or parking area where it can evaporate (at least 300 feet away from streams or aquatic habitats).  If wet shoes have been in the vehicle, scrub floor and pedals with disinfectant solution.

*A 1.2% solution of Sparquat 256™ in water will kill both Chytrid and Didymo in one minute. It also kills Whirling disease with 10 minutes of exposure. Didymo and whirling disease are not concerns in California yet, but these measures help keep it that way.

**One minute exposure does not mean that you have to keep your booted foot in the bucket for a full minute. Just dip all wet gear in the bucket for full coverage and pull out. It will take more than one minute for most field gear to dry out so you have achieved the one minute needed plus many bonus killing minutes in most cases. Equipment made of plastic, metal or other fast drying materials would stay immersed for full minute. Rinsing equipment with tap water is suggested but not necessary.

Appendix B – Page 1

APPENDIX B: GUIDELINES TO REDUCE/PREVENT SPREAD OF INVASIVE AQUATIC ORGANISMS

Do not let concentrated sparquat 256 liquid come in contact with your skin and use in a well ventilated area. See the attached MSDS for warnings and exposure instructions. Although we have been testing the use of un-rinsed 1.2% Sparquat 256 exposed gear since 2007 with no adverse skin reactions, there is a potential for adverse reaction in some. The best prevention is to always rinse disinfected gear with fresh potable water (from a chlorinated or deep well source) before re-donning.

Suggestions:

For people wading in the water every day, keep a tub of one of these chemical baths in the truck. Get in the habit of keeping a 5 gallon bucket and a few Sparquat 256™ filled sample bottles in your field vehicle. Dunk your boots, away from the stream, to clean off the mud and disinfect at the same time.

Other ways to disinfect (not using Sparquat 256™):

1. Complete drying and heating. Leaving gear to dry out in the sun on a hot day should be very effective. *** Caution:  Thick deposits of mud may not completely dry for a very long time. Mud should be removed from gear at the site if possible, but certainly before using the same gear in another site.  Shoe laces will be wet (and infectious) long after the rest of the boot is dry. Many water shoes are available today that have no or quick dry lace systems.  Do not use felt-soled wading shoes. They pick up tiny organisms that remain alive in the porous material.  Complete drying is not optimal for a quick turnaround for field equipment use.

2. Clorox Bleach at a 1:10 ratio (bleach to water) works similarly to Sparquat 256™. Caution:  Bleach can damage field equipment.  Bleach evaporates quickly and cannot be used more than once for cleaning.

*** Check with District Wildlife biologist to determine if complete drying is an acceptable method to use in your district.

Appendix B – Page 2