Homestead Valley Marin County, CA

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LAND MANAGEMENT PLAN for the lands within County Service Area 14 (aka) Homestead Valley Marin County, CA

FINAL DRAFT

LAND MANAGEMENT PLAN for the lands within County Service Area 14 (aka) Homestead Valley, Marin County, CA

Prepared for: Marin County Parks Marin County Civic Center 3501 Civic Center Drive, Room 260 San Rafael, CA 94903 (415) 473-6387 www.marincountyparks.org

and

Homestead Valley Land Trust 315 Montford Avenue Mill Valley, CA 94941

Prepared by: May and Associates, Inc.

March 25, 2014

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Acronyms ...... 6 0.0. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ...... 7 1.0 INTRODUCTION ...... 9 1.1 Background on the HVLT and the Lands within CSA 14 ...... 9 1.2 Goals and Objectives ...... 9 2.0 BIOLOGICAL SETTING ...... 11 2.1 Vegetation Communities ...... 14 2.1.1 Redwood Forest...... 14 2.1.2 Mixed Oak/Bay Woodland ...... 15 2.1.3 Coast Live Oak Woodland ...... 16 2.1.4 Central Coast Riparian Scrub ...... 18 2.1.5 Northern (Franciscan) Coastal Scrub ...... 18 2.1.6 California Annual Grassland and Native Perennial Grassland ...... 19 2.1.7 Eucalyptus Woodland and Other Nonnative Woodland ...... 21 2.1.8 Ruderal and Landscaped Areas ...... 22 2.2 Special Status Plant and Wildlife Species ...... 22 2.2.1 Special Status Plant Species ...... 22 2.2.2 Special Status Wildlife Species ...... 24 2.2.3 Migratory Birds ...... 30 2.2.4 Wildlife Migration Corridors ...... 31 3.0 REGULATORY SETTING ...... 39 3.1 National Environmental Policy Act and California Environmental Quality Act . 39 3.1.1 National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) ...... 39 3.1.2 California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) ...... 39 3.2 Wetland Law and Policy ...... 40 3.2.1 Federal Clean Water Act (Section 404) ...... 40 3.2.2 Federal Clean Water Act (Section 401) ...... 41 3.2.3 State Porter‐Cologne Water Quality Control Act ...... 41 3.2.4 California Department of Fish and Wildlife Code (Sections 1600‐1607) ...... 41 3.3 Protection of Birds, State and Federal Endangered Species Acts ...... 41 3.3.1 Federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act ...... 41 3.3.3 California Endangered Species Act ...... 42 4.0 LAND MANAGEMENT ACTIONS ...... 44 4.1 Fire Fuel Reduction ...... 44 4.1.1. Current Fire Fuel Reduction Actions ...... 44 4.1.2. Proposed Fire Fuel Reduction Actions ...... 44 Table 4. List of Potential Land Management Actions ...... 45 4.2 Habitat Restoration ...... 50 4.2.1. Current Habitat Restoration Actions ...... 50 4.2.2. Proposed Habitat Restoration Actions ...... 50 4.3 Road and Trail Management ...... 50 4.3.1. Current Road and Trail Management Actions ...... 50

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4.3.2. Planned Road and Trail Management Actions ...... 51 4.3.3 Recommended Road and Trail Management Actions ...... 51 5.0 BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES FOR VEGETATION MANAGEMENT 54 5.1 Fire Fuel Reduction ...... 54 5.2 Forest Stand Conversions from Non‐Native (Invasive) Forests to Native Woodlands ...... 57 5.4 Road and Trail Management ...... 59 5.5 Working in Sensitive Habitats ...... 61 5.6 Working in Areas Infested with Invasive Plants ...... 61 5.7 Working in Woodlands Infested with Sudden Oak Death ...... 69 6.0 SELECTION OF PRIORITY PROJECTS ON AN ANNUAL BASIS ...... 70 6.1 Project Prioritization ...... 70 6.1.2 Annual Work Plan Development ...... 70 6.2 Suggested List of Year One Projects ...... 74 Using the procedures described above under Section 6.1, the following projects (Table 6.2) were identified as having high priority for implementation in year one. This list should be considered preliminary, subject to review and approval by HVLT and Marin County prior to implementation...... 74 7.0 REFERENCES ...... 75

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Appendix A. Floristic Analysis of the Lands within CSA 14

Appendix B. Useful Resources B.1 General References on Vegetation Management B.2 Special Status Species Information B.3 Invasive Plant Resources B.4 Species Identification Guidebooks B.5 Plant Disease and Pest Information B.6 Forestry and Fire Protection B.7 Integrated Pest Management Information B.8 Native Plant Materials‐ Plants and Planting Materials B.9 Suggested Planting Lists for Coast Live Oak Woodland and Native Perennial Grassland

Appendix C HVLT 10-year Plan

List of Figures

Figure 1 General Location of Lands within CSA 14 Figure 2 Vegetation Communities on Lands within CSA 14 Figure 3 Sensitive Biological Resources on Lands within CSA 14 Figure 4 Primary Invasive Plant Infestations on Lands within CSA 14 (Sheets 1‐8) Figure 5 Roads and Trails on Lands within CSA 14

List of Tables

Table 2.3 Target Invasive Plants Observed on Lands within CSA 14 Table 4.0 List of Potential Land Management Actions Table 5.1 Best Management Practices Related to Fire Fuel Management and Risk Reduction Table 5.2 Best Management Practices for Conversion of Non‐Native Forests to Oak Woodlands Table 5.3 Best Management Practices Related to Habitat Restoration Table 5.4 Best Management Practices Related to Road and Trail Management Table 5.5 Best Management Practices Related to Working in Sensitive Habitats Table 5.6a Best Management Practices Related to Control of Invasive Plant Species Table 5.6b Recommended Treatment Options for Target Invasive Plants Table 5.7 Best Management Practices Related to Control of Sudden Oak Death Table 6.2 Project Ranking System Table 6.3 Suggested List of Year One Projects

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Acronyms

Ac acre(s) BGEPA Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act BMP Best Management Practice CDFG California Department of Fish and Game CDFW California Department of Fish and Wildlife CEQA California Environmental Quality Act CESA California Endangered Species Act CFGC California Fish and Game Code CNDDB California Natural Diversity Database CNPS California Native Plant Society County Marin County CSA County Service Area CWA Clean Water Act DSZ Defensible Space Zone ESA Federal Endangered Species Act ft feet GGNRA Golden Gate National Recreation Area HVLT Homestead Valley Land Trust m meter MBTA Migratory Bird Treaty Act MCOSD Marin County Open Space District NEPA National Environmental Policy Act NPS National Park Service Parks Marin County Parks PRBO Point Reyes Bird Observatory RWQCB Regional Water Quality Control Board sp. Species (singular) - referring to one species spp. Species (plural) – referring to more than 1 species ssp. Subspecies SOD Sudden Oak Death USGS United States Geological Survey USACE United States Army Corps of Engineers USEPA United States Environmental Protection Agency USFWS United States Fish and Wildlife Service var. variety

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0.0. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

County Service Area (CSA 14), created by action of the Marin County Board of Supervisors on September 12, 1967, is in the unincorporated territory of Marin County and is known generally as Homestead Valley. Located in Mill Valley (Figure 1), the public open space and parks within CSA 14 are owned by Marin County and managed by the Homestead Valley Land Trust (HVLT), a not-for-profit organization.

The preservation of these lands as open space came about through dedicated efforts by Homestead residents and property owners who were concerned about preserving the natural beauty of the Valley. The property was acquired following the passage (by 79% of Homestead Valley voters) of a $600,000 special assessment local bond issue in 1973. About 80 acres of land was purchased with the participation of the County and the Trust for Public Land. Additional parcels of land were donated at that time by Homestead Valley residents. Following acquisition of the property, the HVLT was established, in 1974, under contract with the CSA 14 and the County, to be the custodian of the open space and park lands in Homestead Valley.

This Land Management Plan is intended to provide HVLT with a framework for using best work and management practices, prioritizing projects, timing and sequencing work for maximum effectiveness, and using adaptive management, to help ensure that public monies are effectively and efficiently spent to meet stated goals and objectives. This plan will also ensure that management actions are consistent with Marin County Parks draft Vegetation and Biodiversity Management Plan and draft Road and Trail Management Plan, both of which will be used to guide work on Parks 34 open space preserves. The successful implementation of this plan also relies upon close coordination and collaboration with adjacent public land management agencies (specifically Golden Gate National Recreation Area) and adjacent private property owners.

A total of seven zones, totaling approximately 85 acres, were assessed for natural resource, recreation, and fire management characteristics. Results of these field assessments are presented in this report. One listed species, the northern spotted owl, and one CNPS list 4 plant species, the Oakland star tulip were found to be present on, or immediately adjacent to, these lands.

Based on the results of 1) the field assessment, 2) goals and objectives for these lands, 3) federal, state, and local laws and policies relating to these lands, and 4) land management procedures adopted by Marin County, a comprehensive list of land management actions (intended to represent projects that may occur during a ten-year planning window) was developed (Tale 4.0).

Procedures for prioritizing land management actions and developing annual work plans are described in this document (Table 6.2); these management tools are intended to assist HVLT and the County with balancing project priorities with annual staffing and funding limitations. A list of suggested Year 1 projects was also developed and is included in this report (Table 6.3).

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1.0 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background on the HVLT and the Lands within CSA 14

The preservation of these lands as open space came about through dedicated efforts by Homestead Valley residents and property owners who were concerned about preserving the natural beauty of the Valley. The property was acquired following the passage (by 79% of Homestead Valley voters) of a $600,000 special assessment local bond issue in 1973. About 80 acres of land was purchased with the participation of the County and the Trust for Public Land. Additional parcels of land were donated at that time by Homestead residents. Following acquisition of the property, the HVLT was established, in 1974, under contract with the CSA 14 and Marin County, to be the custodian of the open space and park lands in Homestead Valley.

This Land Management Plan is intended to provide HVLT with a framework for using best work and management practices, prioritizing projects, timing and sequencing work for maximum effectiveness, and using adaptive management, to help ensure that public monies are effectively and efficiently spent to meet stated goals and objectives. It will also ensure that management actions are consistent with Marin County Parks’ draft Vegetation and Biodiversity Management Plan and draft Road and Trail Management Plan, both of which will be used to guide work on Parks’ 34 open space preserves. The successful implementation of this plan also relies upon close coordination and collaboration with adjacent public land management agencies, specifically Golden Gate National Recreation Area (GGNRA), and adjacent private property owners.

This Land Management Plan is intended to have a 10-year planning horizon. It provides the basis for environmental analysis under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Any requirements for regulatory permits necessary for planned management actions will be completed on a project-by-project basis. .

1.2 Goals and Objectives

Since the HVLT was founded, Marin County has collaborated with HVLT to manage these public lands for the primary goals of:

 fire fuel reduction,

 native species preservation,

 trail and park maintenance, and

 visitor use and enjoyment, and community engagement.

The following goals, and associated objectives, expand upon the broad goals established for these

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Goal 1 Manage Vegetation to Reduce Fire Fuels

 Reduce fuel loads in Defensible Space Zones (DSZs) (100 ft. from habitable structures and buildings).

 Convert managed eucalyptus groves to open-canopied native oak/conifer savannah in a manner that blends in with the surrounding native woodlands, controls erosion on hillsides, and creates shaded fuel breaks.

 Maintain ingress/egress access for emergency and maintenance vehicles.

Goal 2 Manage Vegetation to Protect Native Habitats and Species

 Control non-native invasive species in high quality native plant communities (e.g., native grasslands, riparian areas).

 Achieve sustained control of populations of non-native invasive understory plants in forests.

 Enhance redwood forest and riparian areas by controlling invasive plants and reducing erosion and sedimentation.

Goal 3 Maintain Trail Access and High Use Areas for Visitor Use and Enjoyment

 Improve and maintain unpaved roads and trails for public access and recreation.

 Decommission, re-route, and/or improve unpaved roads and trails that are redundant, unsustainable or poor performing, located in environmentally sensitive areas, or which conflict with established goals of adjacent public land management agencies.

Goal 4 Encourage Community Involvement

 Encourage visitor use and enjoyment of roads, trails, and open space lands.

 Develop outreach and education programs on fire fuel reduction, road and trail maintenance, native species protection and restoration, and nonnative species control and eradication.

 Establish Volunteer Programs that support efforts to monitor and restore native species and habitats, monitor and remove nonnative species, maintain trails, and educate visitors about non-conforming uses.

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2.0 BIOLOGICAL SETTING

This Chapter was adapted from the Biological Assessment: Fire Fuel Reduction and Vegetation Management Projects, Homestead Valley Land Trust Marin County, California report (Wood Biological Consulting 2012), and updated with 2012 biological survey results (Appendix A). (See Figure 2 for the location of vegetation communities and Figure 3 for location of sensitive biological resources.)

The project site is located in Homestead Valley, an unincorporated area on the southeastern slopes of Mount Tamalpais, southern Marin County. The study area comprises seven zones covering approximately 85 ac of steep and rugged land in a semi-rural setting located adjacent to approximately 100 homes. Lands adjacent to the study area support undeveloped properties, single and multi-family residences, a community center, and local businesses. Homestead Valley is adjacent to the City of Mill Valley, which is located to the north and east of Homestead Valley. Panoramic Highway, which branches off of California State Route 1 (also known as Shoreline Highway and the Pacific Coast Highway) south of Homestead Valley, runs along the backside (south side) of the Homestead Hill ridge that defines the southern boundary of the Valley. Homestead Valley is immediately adjacent to lands owned by the National Park Service (NPS), including the Golden Gate National Recreation Area (GGNRA) and Muir Woods National Monument, as well as Mount Tamalpais State Park.

The study area is densely vegetated with forest, scrub and grassland components, with a high proportion of native habitats dominated by native plant species. The study area includes Stolte Grove, a small park supporting a grove of redwoods. Reed Creek, a tributary to Arroyo Corte Madera del Presidio, runs through the middle of the valley. Elevations of the study area range from approximately 44-183 m (145-600 ft) above mean sea level (MSL). The underlying geology is mapped as mélange and does not include any serpentine (Blake et al., 2000). Two soil units are mapped within the study area; Tocaloma-McMullin complex, 30-50 percent slopes and Tocaloma-McMullin-Urban land complex, 15-30 percent slopes (USDA 1985).

The last large fire in the project vicinity was in 1929. The so-called “Great Mt. Tamalpais Fire” burned 1,012 ha (2,500 ac) reaching into Mill Valley from near the top of Blithedale Canyon, and then burning up Fern and Cascade Canyons, to the top of Mount Tamalpais, destroying 117 homes.

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2.1 Vegetation Communities

Homestead Valley supports both intact, relatively undisturbed vegetation communities, as well as lands that have been modified by the spread or intentional planting of both native and non-native species. Homestead Valley encompasses the following vegetation communities:

 redwood forest  mixed oak/bay woodland  coast live oak woodland  central coast riparian scrub  Northern (Franciscan) coastal scrub  California annual grassland (with patches of native perennial grassland)  non-native eucalyptus woodland

These vegetation communities are described here.

2.1.1 Redwood Forest

Redwood forest is a sensitive vegetation community that is dominated by a single tree species, coast redwood (Sequoia sempervirens). Redwood forest has been assigned a rarity ranking of G3/S3, which is considered to have a high priority for inventory in the California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB) (CDFG 2010). Sub-dominant trees that can also be found in this vegetation community include Douglas fir (Pseudotstuga menziesii) and tanoak (Lithocarpus densiflorus). Stands growing at and near the valley bottom along Reed Creek include a dense understory of the non-native English ivy (Hedera helix), along with Himalayan blackberry (Rubus armeniacus), spiderwort (Tradescantia fluminensis) and periwinkle (Vinca major). Characteristic native species detected on site include sword fern (Polystichum munitum), wood fern (Dryopteris arguta), and wake-robin (Trillium ovatum). This plant community intergrades with California bay forest habitat.

This is the tallest forest type recognized in California and one of the tallest in the world. Redwood forests are nearly continuous in the outer Coast Ranges from extreme southwestern Oregon to Sonoma County, then becoming progressively more scattered from Marin County down to southern Monterey County. Redwood forests can be found on raised stream terraces, benches, and on slopes and ridges with all slope aspects (Sawyer, et al. 2009), mostly in areas with summer fog. This vegetation type tends to grow in shallow, well-drained soils, often on steep slopes subject to erosion. Near the interior and southern margins of its range, it is confined to north exposures and canyon bottoms. Elevation ranges from sea level to about 975 m (3,200 ft).

The lands within CSA 14 support several stands of redwood forest of mixed age structure and some areas with non-native understory. Within the study area, groves of redwood forest are found along Reed Creek in Stolte Grove (Zone 4), on the lower slopes of Zone 5, in an isolated canyon in Zone 6, and on the upper slopes of Zone 7.

Mixed oak/bay woodland is characterized as a hybrid plant association comprised of elements of both California bay forest and coast live oak woodland. Mixed oak/bay woodland is a common vegetation community consisting of a dense evergreen forest dominated mostly by California bay (Umbellularia californica) and coast live oak (Quercus agrifolia) as co-dominant tree species. In a few areas, stands are monotypic, with California bay comprising the only tree species present.

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In other areas, California bay laurel and coast live oak occur with other trees such as madrone (Arbutus menziesii), and occasionally California buckeye (Aesculus californica). Stands growing along the lower slopes merge with redwood forest and similarly support a dense understory of sword fern (Polystichum munitum). Higher up on the slopes, common understory species include California hazelnut. The shrub layer is well-defined to sparse, and includes California hazelnut, poison oak (Toxicodendron diversilobum), thimbleberry (Rubus parviflorus), huckleberry (Vaccinium ovatum), and toyon (Heteromeles arbutifolia). The understory includes many native plants such as slim solomon (Maianthemum stellatum), wake-robin (Trillium ovatum), and fetid adder’s tongue (Scoliopus begeloviii). Stands growing along the lower slopes merge with redwood forest and similarly support a dense understory of sword fern (Polystichum munitum). This plant community intergrades with redwood forest and coast live oak woodland.

Mixed oak/bay woodlands occur along the coast, interior, and the foothills for the Sierra Nevada from Baja California to Oregon at elevations from sea level to about 1200 m (4,000 ft). They can be found on alluvial benches, streamsides, valley bottoms, coastal bluffs, inland ridges, steep north-facing slopes and on rocky outcrops (Sawyer, et al. 2009). They grow in shallow to deep sand to clay-loamy soils.

Within the study area, mixed oak/bay woodland is the dominant plant association in Zones 3, 5, 6, and 7. Small, remnant patches are also found in Zone 1.

Wildlife Use. Redwood forest is known to provide food, cover, or special habitat elements (for at least one season) for up to 12 reptiles, 18 amphibians, 109 birds, and 54 mammals (Marcot 1979). Numerous bird species are known to nest in the redwoods including ravens and raptors. Several interesting species can live on the forest floor including the banana slug (Aviolimax columbianus), the Pacific giant salamander (Dicamptadon ensatus) and the red-bellied newt (Taricha rivularus).

Several special status wildlife species are associated with redwood forests, including red-legged frog (Rana draytonii), ensatina (Ensatina eschscholtzii), osprey (Pandion haliaetus), ringtail (Bassariscus astutus), and marbled murrelet (Brachyramphus marmoratus). The marbled murrelet (federally threatened and state endangered) is currently known from old growth redwood forests from Canada south to southern Humboldt, and from Half Moon Bay south along the coast, but has never been seen on these lands. The redwood forest in Zone 7 is known to support the federally listed subspecies northern spotted owl (Strix occidentalis caurina), which was detected at the site in 2011 (Wood Biological Consulting, 2011) and is known to breed in Homestead Valley. Refer to Section 2.2.2 below for more information on special status wildlife species.

2.1.2 Mixed Oak/Bay Woodland

Mixed oak/bay woodland is a common vegetation community consisting of a dense evergreen forest dominated mostly by California bay (Umbellularia californica) and coast live oak (Quercus agrifolia) as co-dominant tree species. In a few areas, stands are monotypic, with California bay comprising the only tree species present. In other areas, California bay laurel and coast live oak occur with other trees such as madrone (Arbutus menziesii), and occasionally California buckeye (Aesculus californica). The shrub layer is well-defined to sparse, and includes California hazelnut (Corylus cornuta var. californica), poison oak (Toxicodendron diversilobum), thimbleberry (Rubus parviflorus), huckleberry (Vaccinium ovatum), and toyon (Heteromeles arbutifolia). The understory includes many native plants such as slim solomon (Maianthemum stellatum), wake-robin (Trillium ovatum), and fetid adder’s tongue (Scoliopus begeloviii). Stands growing along the lower slopes merge with redwood forest and similarly

FINAL DRAFT support a dense understory of sword fern (Polystichum munitum). This plant community intergrades with redwood forest and coast live oak woodland.

Within the study area, mature stands of mixed oak/bay woodlands are found below Cowboy Rock (Zone 3), and on lower slopes above Reed Creek (Zones 4, 5 and 6).

Wildlife Use. Mixed oak/bay woodlands supports several of the native wildlife species found in the redwood forest such as the banana slug, Pacific giant salamander and also the red-bellied newt. The presence of hazelnut will attract the western gray squirrel (Sciurus griseus), western scrub-jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens), Steller’s jay (Cyanocitta stelleri), and mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus), as will the acorns from the oaks. The fruits (berries) of understory plants attract bird species such as hermit thrush (Catharus guttatus), Swainson’s thrush (Catharus ustulataus), American robin (Turdus migratorius), and cedar waxwing (Bombycilla cedrorum). Numerous species of birds are expected to nest here including sharp-shinned hawks (Accipiter striatus) and cavity-nesters such as northern flickers (Colaptes chrysoides) and the American kestrel (Falco sparverius). Bats can use the hollow limbs and openings of trees for roosting.

2.1.3 Coast Live Oak Woodland

Coast live oak woodland is a common vegetation community typically found on north-facing slopes and shaded ravines in the southern and inland portions of the state and on more exposed, mesic sites in the north. Coast live oak woodland is restricted primarily to the coast side of the state and is distributed from Sonoma County to Baja California. It occurs throughout the outer South Coast ranges and coastal slopes of the Transverse and Peninsular ranges, from sea level to about 1200 m (4,000 ft) in elevation. Coast live oak woodlands can be found on alluvial terraces, canyon bottoms, stream banks, slopes, and flats, growing on deep, sandy or loamy soils with high organic matter content (Sawyer, et al. 2009).

Although widespread in California, this vegetation community has been impacted by statewide development and land conversion and is of concern to regulatory agencies. As defined in the California Fish and Game Code, oak woodlands are “oak stands with a greater than ten percent canopy cover or that may have historically supported greater than ten percent canopy cover”.1 The California Board of Forestry and Fire Protection has regulatory authority over all of California’s forested landscapes, including the power to regulate oak woodlands at the local or state level (California Oak Foundation 2007).

This community is typically dominated by a single tree, coast live oak (Quercus agrifolia), a drought-resistant evergreen tree growing to 25 m (82 ft) tall. This vegetation community can also include other co-dominant and subdominant tree species including madrone (Arbutus menziesii),

1 California Fish and Game Code ξ1361

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California buckeye (Aesculus californica), and California bay. The shrub layer may include toyon, California hazelnut, poison oak, ocean spray (Holodiscus discolor), coffeeberry (Frangula californica), and snowberry (Sympphoricarpos albus var. laevigatus). Understory species include California honeysuckle (Lonicera hispidula var. vacillans), Douglas iris (Iris douglasiana), purple sanicle (Sanicula crassicaulis), sweet cicely (Osmorrhiza berteroi), and milkmaids (Cardamine californica), among others. Commonly encountered invasive species include French broom (Genista monspessulana), Scotch broom (Cytisus scoparius), blackwood acacia (Acacia melanoxylon), wild plum (Prunus cerasifera), cotoneaster (Cotoneaster spp.) and broadleaved forget-me-not (Myosotis latifolia). The native tree species, Douglas fir (Pseudotstuga menziesii) is also present, invading this habitat from elsewhere on Mount Tamalpais.

Within the study area, coast live oak woodland is present on the upper slopes of both sides of Homestead Valley. Specifically, examples can be found in Zones 1, 4, and 6. On site, this plant community intergrades with California bay forest and northern coastal scrub habitats.

Wildlife Use. Coast live oak woodland provides habitat for reptiles and amphibians such as Coast Range fence lizard2 (Sceloporus occidentalis bocourtii), California slender salamander (Batrachoseps attenuatus), and Pacific gopher snake (Pituophis catenifer catenifer), among others. These species feed on a variety of invertebrates, rodents, ground-nesting birds, and other small reptiles and amphibians found within and beneath fallen logs and debris within this vegetation community. Nesting bird species typically found within coast live oak woodlands include dark-eyed junco (Junco hyemalis), Hutton’s vireo (Vireo huttoni), California quail (Callipepla californica), western scrub-jay, oak titmouse (Baeolophus inornatus), American crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos), and loggerhead shrike (Lanius ludovicianus), among others. Numerous birds forage here including Nuttall’s woodpecker (Picoides nuttallii), acorn woodpecker (Melanerpes formicivorus) and mixed groups of warblers. Small rodents such as woodrat (Neotoma fuscipes ssp.), deer mouse (Peromyscus maniculatus), and gray squirrel provide a prey base that attracts raptors (birds of prey) such as barn owls (Tyto alba) that hunt at night, as well as day-hunting raptors such as red-shouldered hawk (Buteo lineatus). Mule deer can graze and bed down in such habitat, while mammalian predators such as raccoon (Procyon lotor), striped skunk (Mephitus mephitus), bobcat (Lynx rufus), and coyote (Canis latrans) may also forage or reside in these habitats on site.

2 Formerly known as the western fence lizard.

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2.1.4 Central Coast Riparian Scrub

Central Coast riparian scrub is a sensitive plant community typically consisting of shrubby streamside, open to impenetrable willow thickets. Central coast riparian scrub is classified as a palustrine shrub-scrub wetland; impacts to this plant community may be regulated under federal, state or local wetland laws and policies.

This plant community occurs close to river channels and seeps near the coast, usually on fine- grained sand and gravel bars in areas with a high water table or water that is available at the soil surface. It is distributed along and at the mouths of most perennial and many intermittent streams of the South Coast Ranges, from the Bay Area to near Point Conception (Holland 1986). This plant community can also occur in isolated stands associated with seeps and springs on slopes and as stringers along ephemeral or intermittent channels. It occurs from sea level to 2,170 m (7,100 ft) in elevation.

Characteristic native species occurring on site include arroyo willow (Salix lasiolepis), California blackberry (Rubus ursinus), and poison oak, among others. At the upper end of Reed Creek, three invasive plants, Cape ivy (Delairea odorata), periwinkle (Vinca major), and Himalayan blackberry, are also commonly found in this plant community. This plant community intergrades with redwood forest, northern coastal scrub, and non-native annual grassland habitats.

Within the study area, a few, poorly developed stands of Central Coast riparian scrub are present. They may be found principally outside of the dense forest canopy at top of the headwaters of Reed Creek (Zone 3), and may be present in some seeps on side slopes (Zones 3, 6 and 7).

Wildlife Use. Central coast riparian scrub (and in particular, willows) provide important cover and nesting habitat for numerous bird species including song sparrow (Melospiza melodia), yellow warbler (Dendroica petechia), and neotropical migrants. Reed Creek and its lower side streams may be expected to support such amphibians and reptiles such as California toad (Bufo boreas halophilus), Sierra treefrog (Pseudacris sierra), coast gartersnake (Thamnophis elegans terrestris), Pacific pond turtle (Actinemys marmorata) and California red-sided snake (Thamnophis sirtalis infernalis). Red-winged blackbird (Agelaius phoeniceus) and killdeer (Charadrius vociferous) often use riparian areas for foraging and nesting. Snowy egret (Leocophoyx thula), green backed heron (Butorides striatus), great blue heron (Ardea herodias), black crowned night heron (Nycticorax nycticorax) and mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) also forage in and near this vegetation community, feeding on small fish, amphibians and reptiles. Mammals common in riparian areas include California vole (Microtus californicus) along the wetland edges, and raccoons that may forage on eggs and invertebrates. Striped skunk and gray fox (Urocyon cinereoargenteus) may also forage in this vegetation community type. Riparian areas provide important foraging and drinking areas for aerial and ground feeding insectivorous bats, such as Myotis species and pallid bat (Antrozous pallidus). Aquatic insects found in the nearby creek are prey for wildlife that are associated with riparian areas, including fish, frogs, bats and birds.

2.1.5 Northern (Franciscan) Coastal Scrub

Northern (Franciscan) coastal scrub is a common vegetation type consisting of a dense cover of low shrubs up to six feet high with a well-developed herbaceous or low woody understory. Northern coastal scrub is most extensive on windy, exposed sites with shallow, rocky soils. This vegetation community is distributed in a discontinuous strip from southern Oregon to Point Sur,

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Monterey County within the immediate coastal zone and at elevations up to 460 m (1,500 ft) (Holland 1986; Holland and Keil 1990).

Vegetation here is very mixed and difficult to assign to any specific alliance (as described in Sawyer, et al., 2009). The most commonly dominant species is the native coyote brush (Baccharis pilularis). The dominant species may include native coyote brush, coffeeberry, chaparral oak (Quercus wislizenii), sticky monkeyflower (Mimulus aurantiacus), western bracken fern (Pteridium aquilinum var. pubescens), and cow parsnip (Heracleum lanatum). Invasive non- native species such as French broom and Scotch broom are also common in this plant community. Northern coastal scrub intergrades with California annual grassland and coast live oak woodland.

Within the study area, northern coastal scrub occurs in rather patchy stands on north-facing slopes at the upper elevations of Zones 1 and 6.

Wildlife Use. Wildlife encountered in this type of habitat also occur in surrounding habitats but a few are specific to Northern (Franciscan) coastal scrub, such as the wrentit (Chamaea fasciata). Other bird species such as California towhee (Pipilo crissalis), spotted towhee (Pipilo maculatus), California quail (Callipepla californica), and western scrub-jay commonly nest in this habitat. The Coast Range fence lizard and Pacific gopher snake are attracted to cover and prey (insects and small rodents) that tend to live in scrubby areas. Black-tailed hare, brush rabbit (Lepus californicus) and small rodents including California vole, deer mouse, and western harvest mouse (Reithrodontomys megalotis) are some mammal species expected to occur in this habitat. Terrestrial carnivores potentially occurring in this habitat include the coyote, bobcat, and striped skunk. Coyote and bobcat scat were observed in Zones 5 and 6 during fieldwork in April, 2013. Columbian black-tailed deer are associated with northern Franciscan coastal scrub and as well as other habitats such as oak woodland.

2.1.6 California Annual Grassland and Native Perennial Grassland

California annual grassland (also referred to as Annual Grassland or Non-Native Annual Grassland) is a common plant community generally found in open areas in valleys and foothills throughout coastal and interior California (Holland 1986). Non-native annual grasslands in the study area most closely conforms to wild oats grasslands (Avena Semi-Natural Herbaceous Stands) as described in Sawyer, et al. (2009); this widespread non-native plant community has no rarity ranking (CDFG 2010).

California annual grasslands are typically dominated by a diverse mixture of nonnative and naturalized annual grasses and forbs, primarily of Mediterranean origin. Dominant annual grasses found in California annual grassland onsite include wild oats (Avena fatua), brome grasses (Bromus spp.), wild barley (Hordeum spp.), quaking grass (Briza spp.), Italian ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum), and annual fescue (Vulpia spp.). Common non-native forbs include field bindweed (Convovulus arvensis), crane's-bill (Geranium dissectum), sheep sorrel (Rumex acetosella), bur-clover (Medicago polymorpha), and filaree (Erodium spp.). Numerous remnants of native perennial bunchgrass grassland habitat were also detected in the California annual grassland, including purple needlegrass (Stipa pulchra), foothill needlegrass (Stipa lepida), western dichondra (Dichondra donelliana), soap plant (Chlorogalum pomeridianum), red fescue (Festuca rubra), wildrye (Elymus glaucus), wood rush (Luzula comosa), wood strawberry (Fragaria vesca), death camas (Zigadenus fremontiii) and footsteps-of-spring (Sanicula arctopoides), among others. Many invasive plants were observed in California annual grasslands

FINAL DRAFT onsite, including Tasmanian blue gum, Monterey pine (Pinus radiata), Douglas fir, French broom, Scotch broom, blackwood acacia and green wattle (Acacia spp.), Cotoneaster (Cotoneaster sp), Italian thistle (Carduus pycnocephalus), Harding grass (Phalaris aquatica), and others.

In contrast, native perennial grassland is a sensitive vegetation community that is dominated by a mixture of native perennial grasses and forbs generally occurring with the more typical annual grassland species described above. It has a rarity ranking of G4 and is considered to have a high priority for inventory in the CNDDB (CDFG 2010). Native perennial grassland is a native plant community with a substantial component of any of several perennial, tussock-forming grass species in the genus Elymus, Festuca, Melica, and Stipa, among others. These grasslands are typically most well-developed on fine-textured, often clayey soils that remain moist well into the growing season after winter rains, but are very dry during the summer. Frequently, stands will consist of 50 percent cover or more of non-native grasses and forbs. Native grassland communities originally covered about 13 percent of the land area of California. On site, native perennial grassland most closely conforms to Purple Needlegrass Grassland (Nassella pulchra Herbaceous Alliance) as described in Sawyer, et al. (2009).

In addition to the annual species described above, native perennial grasslands also support purple needlegrass (Stipa pulchra), foothill needlegrass (Stipa lepida), western red fescue (Festuca rubra), and wildrye (Elymus glaucus), as well as native forbs and rushes such as dichondra (Dichondra donelliana), soap plant (Chlorogalum pomeridianum), wood rush (Luzula comosa), wood strawberry (Fragaria vesca), death camas (Zigadenus fremontiii) and footsteps-of-spring (Sanicula arctopoides). Invasive plants are much less common in this plant community but include the same species as described above for California native annual grasslands.

Due to their small size, it was not always possible to map native perennial grasslands separately from areas mapped as California annual grasslands. In general, native perennial grasslands are most common along ridges with thin soils in Zones 1 and 3. California annual grasslands are present in all Zones but are most common on the upper slopes of Zones 1, 3, 5, 6 and 7. This plant community intergrades with central coast live oak woodland, northern (Franciscan) coastal scrub, and Eucalyptus forest.

Wildlife Use. Grasslands support a variety of reptiles such as California alligator lizard (Elgaria multicarinata multicarinata), Coast Range fence lizard, California slender salamander, Pacific gophersnake, California kingsnake (Lampropeltis getula californiae), among others. These species feed on a variety of invertebrates, rodents, ground-nesting birds, and other small reptiles and amphibians found within and beneath fallen logs and debris. Grasslands also attract a variety of seed- and insect-eating passerines (perching birds). Ground-nesting birds within these communities include such species as California horned lark (Eremophila alpestris actia), grasshopper sparrow (Ammodramus savannarum), and western meadowlark (Sturnella neglecta). Other bird species known to forage in this community include western scrub-jay, mourning dove (Zenaida macroura), northern mockingbird (Mimus polyglottos), and loggerhead shrike. Grasslands provide valuable foraging habitat for aerial and ground foraging insect-eating bat species such as pallid bat. Numerous other mammal species such as California vole, deer mouse, Botta’s pocket gopher (Thomomys bottae), and black-tailed jackrabbit also typically forage and breed within grasslands. Small rodents attract raptors (birds-of-prey) such as owls, including barn owls, as well as day-hunting raptors such as white-tailed kite (Elanus leucurus), American kestrel, northern harrier (Circus cyaneus), and red-tailed hawk (Buteo jamaicensis).

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Mammalian predators such as raccoon, striped skunk, bobcat and coyote (Canis latrans) will also forage and move through grassland areas.

2.1.7 Eucalyptus Woodland and Other Nonnative Woodland

Eucalyptus woodland is a non-native plant community consisting of trees of Australian origin that were first brought to the state in 1856 (O’Brien 2005). Numerous species of eucalyptus were imported for their horticultural interest and because their potential utility as a fast-growing hardwood. It is estimated that there are between 600 and 800 species of Eucalyptus, about eighteen of which have become fairly widespread in California. The most common and widely grown species is Tasmanian blue gum (Eucalyptus globulus), the species that occurs throughout the study area. Stands of eucalyptus woodland dominated by Tasmanian blue gum trees 60-80 feet in height. Although these stands have substantially altered the habitat, remnants of the native habitats that previously occupied these locations are readily apparent, such as coast live oak woodland, northern coastal scrub and grasslands. Although infrequent, young plants of coast live oak, toyon, and coffeeberry, can be found in the understory, along with such native species as manroot (Marah fabaceus), wood strawberry, western dichondra, purple needlegrass, California honeysuckle, poison oak, and many others.

Because eucalyptus trees form dense, expanding groves, drop a tremendous amount of bark and leaf litter (greatly increasing fire risk), and substantially alter the chemistry of the soil, they have contributed to the loss of native plant communities and are in some instances considered an invasive species that requires active control. Eucalyptus is considered invasive in situations where they cause environmental harm to native plant communities.

Other non-native woodlands encountered within the study area include extensive areas dominated by green wattle (Acacia decurrens), blackwood acacia (Acacia melanoxylon), and cherry plum (Prunus cerasifera), along with California native trees that are not indigenous to Marin County such as Monterey cypress (Hesperocyperus macrocarpa) and Monterey pine (Pinus radiata).

Zone 2 is virtually dominated by eucalyptus, and substantial groves are present in Zones 1, 3, and 6. A single stand dominated by Monterey cypress is present in Zone 1. Scattered individuals and small stands of Monterey pine and cherry plum are present in Zones 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, and 7. Green wattle and/or blackwood acacia are present in Zones 1, 2, 3, 6 and 7.

Although these stands have substantially altered the habitat, remnants of the native plant communities that previously occupied these locations are readily apparent in the understory, such as coast live oak woodland, northern coastal scrub and grasslands. Although infrequent, young plants of coast live oak, toyon, and coffeeberry can be found in the understory, along with such native species as manroot (Marah fabaceus), wood strawberry, western dichondra, purple needlegrass, California honeysuckle, poison oak, and many others.

Wildlife Use. Eucalyptus woodlands provide nesting and roosting habitat for a variety of native wildlife particularly raptors. Additionally, eucalyptus flowers provide a source of winter nectar for birds such as Anna’s hummingbird and Monarch butterfly, however, there have been anecdotal reports that the gummy nectar can cause harm to small birds, potentially clogging their beaks and nostrils causing mortality (Mary Anne Flett, pers. comm.). Both red-shouldered and red-tailed hawks utilize mature eucalyptus trees for nesting habitats as well as other birds like Anna’s hummingbird. Other common bird species to nest and roost in eucalyptus include crows, ravens and great horned owls (Bubo virginianus). Some bats can utilize eucalyptus trees for

FINAL DRAFT roosting - particularly western red bats (Lasiurus blossevillii) and perhaps hoary bats (Lasiurus cinereus). Eucalyptus groves can create woody debris and litter in the understory, providing important microhabitats for a number of wildlife species, including alligator lizard, gopher snake, and woodrat. Along the Pacific Coast of California, monarch butterflies may use Eucalyptus groves for overwintering from about October to late February, often returning to the same site year after year.

2.1.8 Ruderal and Landscaped Areas

Ruderal habitat is that from which the native vegetation has been completely removed by grading, cultivation, or other surface disturbances. Left undeveloped, such areas typically become recolonized by invasive exotic species. Scattered native species might recolonize the site after disturbance has ceased. Ruderal sites may be dominated by herbaceous species, although scattered woody shrubs and trees may also begin to appear if left undisturbed long enough. Ruderal sites are characteristic of road sides, fallow agricultural fields, vacant lots, and large landslides. Landscaped areas may support any number of exotic herbs, shrubs or trees.

Non-native and invasive plant species commonly encountered in ruderal and landscaped areas include pride-of-Madeira (Echium candicans), English ivy (Hedera helix), sweet fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), common forget-me-not (Myosotis latifolia), French broom (Genista monspessulana), Scotch broom (Cytissus scoparius), cotoneaster (Cotoneaster pannosus, C. franchetii), Bermuda buttercup (Oxalis pes-caprae), velvet grass (Holcus lanatus), big quaking grass (Briza maxima), African cornflag (Chasmanthe floribunda), and spiderwort, among many others.

Within the study area, extensive areas of ruderal and landscaped habitats are present in all Zones (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7).

Wildlife Use. Most of the wildlife species listed under grasslands will occur in these habitats along with numerous human-associated species such as skunks and raccoons. The small amount of ruderal habitat on site is likely to attract reptiles and amphibians such as California alligator lizard, Coast Range fence lizard, and California slender salamander, among others. Ruderal habitats also attract a variety of seed- and insect-eating passerines and mammals, including ground-nesting bird species including the grasshopper sparrow and mourning dove, and mammalian species such as the California vole, deer mouse, and Botta’s pocket gopher.

2.2 Special Status Plant and Wildlife Species

2.2.1 Special Status Plant Species

For the purposes of this analysis, special status plants are defined to include state or federally listed species, and species on California Native Plant Society (CNPS) Lists 1 and 2. Locally rare plants include plants on CNPS lists 3 and 4, and other plants recognized by local experts such as the GGNRA as being uncommon in the local area (see Figure 5 for the locations of sensitive biological resources).

A list of target special status plant species was prepared by reviewing database printouts for the San Rafael, San Geronimo, Novato, San Quentin, San Francisco North, Petaluma Point, Bolinas, and Point Bonita 7.5-minute United States Geological Survey (USGS) quadrangles maintained by

FINAL DRAFT the CNDDB (2013), the CNPS (2012) and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) (2011). A total of 76 special status plant species were initially considered as potentially occurring on these lands (Wood Biological Consulting 2012). These 76 plant species have been recorded from the eight USGS quadrangles including and surrounding the project site (CNDDB 2013, USFWS 2013, CNPS 2013). (Refer to Appendix A for the list of target special status plant species.)

Focused floristic surveys were conducted by botanists Michael Wood and Christopher Thayer on April 11-12, 2013 and repeated on June 11-12, 2013. Results of the 2013 survey are presented in Appendix A. A previous reconnaissance-level survey of the study area was performed by Mr. Wood on February 28, 2012 during preparation of a biological assessment for the fire fuel management project located at the same site. The timing of the 2013 surveys was intended to correspond to the flowering times of those species deemed most likely to occur in the study area, determined during a reconnaissance-level botanical survey in 2012 (Wood Biological Consulting 2012). The 2013 floristic surveys were conducted on foot by walking all roads and trails. Meandering transects were walked through all open areas (e.g., grass and brush covered habitats) as well as all areas dominated by invasive species (e.g., non-native woodland and areas dominated by species of broom) as such sites will be subjected to the greatest level of surface disturbances. All plant species observed were recorded; specimens that could not be positively identified in the field were collected and identified in the office (see Appendix A). The survey methodology followed in the course of this study was consistent with the guidelines published by the USFS (2000), California Department of Fish and Wildlife3 (CDFW) (2009), and the CNPS (2001).

Of the 76 target species originally considered, the presence of 69 of the target species can be completely ruled out due to the lack of suitable habitat within the study area and the fact that they would have been identifiable during the 2013 survey, if present (Appendix A). The presence of four target plants cannot be completely ruled out because they might not have been detectable during the present survey, but are not expected to occur on site due to the presence of only marginally suitable habitat.

For the purposes of this analysis, special status plants are defined to include state or federally listed species and species on CNPS Lists 1 and 2. Locally rare plants include plants on CNPS lists 3 and 4 and other plants recognized by local experts such as the GGNRA as being uncommon in the local area. Initially, a total of 76 special status plant species were considered as potentially occurring on these lands (Wood Biological Consulting 2012). These 76 plant species have been recorded from the eight USGS quadrangles including and surrounding the project site (CNDDB 2013, USFWS 2013, CNPS 2013). Refer to Figure 5 for the locations of sensitive biological resources.

3 Effective January 1, 2013, the California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG) changed its name to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW).

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Oakland star-tulip (Calochortus umbellatus) is a bulb-forming perennial herb belonging to the lily family (Liliaceae). Stems grow up to 12 inches high, producing 3-12 erect white to pale pink- lilac colored flowers. Flowering occurs March through May. Oakland star-tulip occurs in chaparral, cismontane woodland, broadleafed upland forest, lower montane coniferous forest and valley and foothill grassland. It is known from Alameda, Contra Costa, Lake, Marin, Santa Clara, San Mateo and Stanislaus counties; it is presumed extirpated from Santa Cruz County. In Marin County, Oakland star-tulip is known from at least 48 occurrences in the project vicinity (Consortium of California Herbaria).

Oakland star-tulip has no status under the federal Endangered Species Act (ESA) or state Endangered Species Act (CESA). However, it is a state listed special plant species (CDFG 2013a) and it is on the CNPS List 4.2, indicating that it is uncommon in California and fairly endangered locally. It has a global ranking of G3 and a state ranking of S3.2, indicating that it is vulnerable and threatened. Depending on their severity, impacts to Oakland star-tulip may be regarded as significant under CEQA guidelines and should be addressed in environmental documents.

Within the study area, 22 populations of Oakland star-tulip were detected in Zone 6 (Appendix A). Population sizes estimated from six to over 200 individuals, with a total estimated number of at least 765 plants growing on site.

2.2.2 Special Status Wildlife Species

Special status animal species include wildlife species that are listed as endangered, threatened, rare, or as candidates for listing under the ESA (USFWS 2011) or CESA (CDFG 2011b). Other wildlife species regarded as having special status include special animals, as listed by the CDFG (2011a). Additional animal species receive protection under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act (BGEPA)4 and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA).5 The CFGC provides specific language protecting birds and raptors6, “fully protected birds,”7 “fully protected mammals”8, “fully protected reptiles and amphibians,”9 and “fully protected fish.”10 The California Code of Federal Regulations11 prohibits the take of Protected Amphibians,12 Protected Reptiles,13 and Protected Furbearers.14 Additional definitions are given in CEQA.15

4 16 USC 668, et seq. 5 16 U.S.C. 703‐711 6 §§3503 and 3503.5 7 CFGC §3511 8 CFGC §4700 9 CFGC §5050 10 CFGC §5515 11 Title 14 12 Chapter 5 §41 13 Chapter 5 §42 14 Chapter 5 §460 15 §15380(d)

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Within these lands, remnant native habitats occur within a matrix of disturbed landscapes, such as housing development, horticultural cultivated areas, and roads. From a broader perspective, the lands are also located at the edge of continuous and extensive wildlands including Mount Tamalpais State Park, Muir Woods National Monument, and the GGNRA. Although in close proximity to Richardson Bay and its associated tidal marsh, the lands support no brackish marsh or wetlands subject to tidal influence. Therefore none of the special status wildlife species associated with those habitats occur. In general, the relatively high level of human occupation, activity, and associated habitat fragmentation and degradation diminish the overall quality of habitat for special status animal wildlife species. However, many common wildlife species that are tolerant of human disturbance and marginal habitat quality inhabit the lands. The potential for some special status animal wildlife species also exists within the lands due to their presence in the nearby wildlands and the existence of at least marginally suitable habitat on some of the lands to support them. The forested portions of the site, in particular, provide important habitat for a variety of species, including the northern spotted owl, which has been observed on one of the properties. The northern spotted owl is federally listed as endangered and is a state species of special concern (see discussion below).

A total of 52 special status animal species have been recorded in the eight USGS quadrangles surrounding the project site (CNDDB 2012, USFWS 2011). Of these, the presence of 25 can be completely ruled out base on a lack of suitable habitat and/or the fact that the project site is outside of their geographic range. The presence of 16 of the remaining species is not expected within Homestead Valley lands due to the presence of only marginally suitable habitat, the high level of disturbance on site, and/or the site’s relative isolation from more likely occupied sites. The remaining 11 target wildlife species were determined to warrant further investigation during the 2013 field surveys due to the fact that they may occur within the study area (based on range) and also due to the presence of suitable habitat onsite.

The results of the 2013 surveys are presented below. In summary, of the 11 special status wildlife surveys targeted during the 2013 field surveys, only one federally listed species, northern spotted owl, was detected on site and is known to reside on these lands (see Figure 5). This species is discussed in more detail below.

Threatened and Endangered Species

Northern Spotted Owl The northern spotted owl (Strix occidentalis caurina) was listed as federally threatened (June 26, 1990) and listed as a CDFW species of special concern. The northern spotted owl is a medium sized owl approximately 41-48 cm (16-19 in) in length. They range from as far north as Canada, and as far south as Marin County in California.

The primary prey of the northern spotted owl are woodrats (Neotoma sp.), but they can eat a wide variety of other prey items. In Marin County, 90% of their diet consists of dusky footed woodrat (Neotoma fuscipes), brush rabbit (Sylvilagus bachmani), deer mice, California vole and pocket gopher. This subspecies is closely associated with old growth forests and will inhabit a mixture of young and old growth in some parts of its range. They form life-long pair bonds and are highly territorial. In Marin County, the northern spotted owl nesting season spans from February through July. In Marin County, the northern spotted owl may occupy habitats that differ from those typically utilized in the northern parts of its range, and may include, in addition to old-growth redwood forests, forests of second-growth coast redwood, Douglas-fir, and bishop pine; some occupied forests have hardwood components

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(www.nps.gov). Somewhat surprisingly, the northern spotted owl is quite abundant in Marin County, despite the high level of human occupation and activities.

Critical Habitat: Critical habitat was designated on August 13, 2008 (USFWS) and a revised recovery plan was released June 30, 2011 (USFWS).

Habitat Suitability and Occurrence Data: Northern spotted owls nest in the adjacent open space lands such as Muir Woods National Monument. A pair of northern spotted owls was observed during the present reconnaissance survey; this pair is included in an existing database maintained and monitored by the Point Reyes Bird Observatory (PRBO). It is unknown whether the territory is currently occupied by nesting northern spotted owls. However, northern spotted owls are philopatric (i.e., site faithful) and for the purposes of planning, we assume current occupancy of this previously occupied territory. We also assume that the site and other suitable habitat nearby provides foraging habitat within the range of the nesting territory.

Northern spotted owl buffer zones and potential impacts: Suitable but currently unoccupied redwood forest habitat is present at Stolte Grove (Zone 4) and in a narrow canyon at the eastern edge of Zone 6.

Northern spotted owl Suggested Habitat Protection Measures: Northern spotted owl (Strix occidentalis caurina) is known to nest on these lands. Although there are several houses in close proximity to the northern spotted owl territory, the nest grove is in a location that is fairly well buffered. In order to assure that the northern spotted owl territory is protected from impacts, the HVLT might consider the following measures as ways to provide further protection to the nesting northern spotted owl:

 Intrusive, loud decibel construction activities (sustained, high-decibel percussive noises) should be avoided during the breeding season, (from February through June). If it is possible, schedule any loud construction events between July 1st and January 30th.  Night-lighting from surrounding residences should be kept to a minimum (no spotlights on the forest edge, etc.).  Large trees and undergrowth should be maintained and preserved in the forested habitats  Landscaping design should incorporate native plantings with an effort to increase vegetative cover where possible.  Rodenticides should not be used on the surrounding lands.

Other Special Status Species

Monarch Butterfly (Overwintering Sites) The monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus) is considered a special animal (CDFG (2011a). Monarch butterflies migrate over great distances between breeding grounds to overwintering sites where they annually aggregate in particular forest groves (Weiss, et al. 1991). Populations that breed east of the Rocky Mountains migrate to the mountains of central Mexico (Urquhart & Urquhart 1976, 1978; Brower, et al. 1977). Monarchs that breed west of the Rocky Mountains migrate to the Pacific coast (Urquhart & Urquhart 1977). Monarch butterfly migration and over-wintering behavior is classified as a “threatened phenomenon” by the IUCN due to habitat loss and degradation.

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In California, the monarch butterfly aggregates in winter roost sites from northern Mendocino County to the Baja Peninsula in Mexico. Over-wintering sites consist of wooded trees of mixed height and trunk diameter, as well as understory brush, generally within a mile of the coast. Trees such as blue gum (Eucalyptus globulus), Monterey pine (Pinus radiata) and Monterey cypress (Cupressus macrocarpa) are most often used for roosts, as well as other native and non-native species in large groves, often in canyons or drainages that provide a source of water as well as shelter from prevailing winter winds (Brower, et al. no date). Over-wintering aggregations can be observed from about October to late February. The presence of winter aggregations and the abundance of butterflies in a given aggregation can vary from year to year.

Critical Habitat: Despite being recognized internationally as a unique phenomenon, because the monarch is not listed as federally protected under FESA, it has no designated critical habitat.

Habitat Suitability and Occurrence Data: Large eucalyptus, Monterey pine, Monterey cypress and other large conifers provide suitable overwintering habitat for the monarch butterfly within the study area. Known monarch overwintering sites in Marin County have been recorded at Muir Beach and Bolinas Terrace Site, and temporary sites are located nearby in Tennessee Valley, Marin Headlands and Stinson Beach. No overwintering sites were listed for the CNDDB San Rafael quad and the species has not been observed by long-time residents.

Foothill Yellow-Legged Frog The foothill yellow-legged frog (Rana boylii, hereafter FYLF) is a California Species of Special Concern (CDFG 2011a). It occurred historically in most Pacific drainages from Oregon south to the San Gabriel river system (Los Angeles County) and typically inhabits open rocky streams, preferring watercourses with cobble sized or larger substrates (Jennings and Hayes 1994). Occupied drainages range from sea level to 2040 m (0-6700 ft) (Stebbins 2003). Streams in woodland, chaparral or forest with little to no bank vegetation cover are also preferred. The foothill yellow-legged frog prefers small to moderate sized streams with at least some cobble-sized substrate (Hayes and Jennings 1988). Breeding occurs from mid- March to May, depending on rain patterns and water temperatures, with tadpoles metamorphosing in June or July, or as late as September (Jennings 1988). Egg masses are typically attached to rocks in backwater pools or on the downstream side of cobbles and boulders over which a gentle current of water flows (Jennings 1988). The number of egg masses increases between temperatures of 48-52°F. Larvae typically feed on algae, diatoms, etc., on the surfaces of rock substrates and in the water column (Jennings and Hayes 1994). Post metamorphic frogs prey on terrestrial invertebrates as well as aquatic invertebrates.

The range of foothill yellow-legged frog has declined dramatically during the past 30 years and frogs are now apparently extinct over much of the southern Sierra (south of Fresno County) and central and southern California (south of Monterey County) (Jennings and Hayes 1994). The reason for this species’ decline is thought to be due to a combination of factors including habitat destruction, introduced diseases, and the presence of introduced aquatic predators such as sunfish, western mosquitofish, crayfish, and bullfrog. The foothill yellow-legged frog is infrequent or absent in streams with introduced aquatic predators (Hayes and Jennings 1988).

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Critical Habitat: The foothill yellow-legged frog is not listed under the ESA; as such, no critical habitat has been designated.

Habitat Suitability and Occurrence Data: the FYLF has been recorded from Muir Woods National Monument (over 30 records) and also at an outfall at Richardson’s Bay. Habitat within the study area (e.g., Reed Creek and associated tributaries) is considered only marginally suitable for the species. Additionally, the upstream habitat is effectively cut off from downstream habitat due to a series of drop structures that would limit the likelihood of frogs traveling back up stream once it was washed downstream.

Pacific Pond Turtle The Pacific pond turtle (Actinemys marmorata; hereafter referred to as PPT), a California Species of Special Concern (CDFG 2011a), is the only fresh-water turtle native to greater California. It is distributed along much of the West Coast from Puget Sound in Washington, south to the Baja Peninsula in Mexico (Storer 1930). Overall, the Pacific pond turtle is a habitat generalist and has been observed in slow-moving rivers and streams (e.g. in oxbows), lakes, reservoirs, permanent and ephemeral wetlands, stock ponds, and sewage treatment plants. The species prefers aquatic habitat with refugia such as undercut banks and submerged vegetation (Holland 1994), and requires emergent basking sites such as mud banks, rocks, logs, and root wads to thermoregulate their body temperature (Holland 1994, Bash 1999). The Pacific pond turtle is omnivorous, feeding on a variety of aquatic and terrestrial invertebrates, fish, amphibians and aquatic plants.

The Pacific pond turtle regularly utilizes upland terrestrial habitats, most often during the summer and winter, especially for oviposition (i.e., egg laying), overwintering, seasonal terrestrial habitat use, and overland dispersal (Reese 1996, Holland 1994). Females have been reported to range as far as 500 m (1640 ft) from a watercourse to find suitable nesting habitat (Reese and Welsh 1997). Nest sites are most often situated on south or west-facing slopes, are sparsely vegetated with short grasses or forbs, and are scraped in sands or hard- packed, dry, silt or clay soils (Holland 1994, Rathbun, et al. 1992, Holte 1998, Reese and Welsh 1997). The species exhibits high site fidelity, returning in sequential years to the same terrestrial site to nest or overwinter (Reese 1996).

Females lay their clutches as early as the end of April in the southern half of the California, although egg laying occurs predominantly in June and July. In the early morning or late afternoon, gravid females leave the water and move upland to nest (Holland 1994). Natural incubation times vary, ranging from 80 to 100 days in California. In northern California and Oregon, hatchlings remain in the nest after hatching, and overwinter; they emerge in the spring. In southern and central California, Pacific pond turtles that don’t overwinter emerge from the nest in the early fall (Holland 1994).

Critical Habitat: The Pacific pond turtle is not listed under the ESA; as such, no critical habitat has been designated.

Habitat Suitability and Occurrence Data: The Pacific pond turtle is considered widespread in areas of suitable habitat (streams with perennially available water, ponds and other freshwater ecosystems); the stream habitat which occurs within the study area is considered suitable. The only record listed in the CNDDB San Rafael quad was an occurrence from Phoenix Lake, approximately 5 km (3 mi) to the north of the study area.

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Heron and Egret Rookeries A number of semi colonially and colonial nesters have some potential to occur within the study area. Great blue heron, snowy egret, great egret, and black crowned night heron could potentially use some of the trees for roosting, particularly near open water. No rookeries were detected during the surveys of the study area, and they are unlikely to occur there. Long-time residents report that herons and egrets have not been seen along Ross Creek. Rookeries are recorded nearby, including at the Audubon Canyon Ranch approximately 10 km (6 mi) to the west, as well as the shores of nearby Richardson Bay.

White-tailed Kite The White-tailed kite (Elanus leucurus) is listed by the CDFG as a fully protected bird species16; it is also protected under the MBTA and CFGC17 and is considered a migratory nongame bird of management concern by the USFWS (CDFG 2011a, b). In the United States this species occurs in California, Texas and a disjointed group in Florida, and has expanded its range into Washington and Oregon (Dunk 1995). Generally, white-tailed kites are observed in low elevation grasslands, agricultural, wetland, oak-woodland or savannah habitats. Food habit studies have demonstrated that voles make up a large proportion of its diet, although other small mammals, birds and insects are also preyed upon (Dunk 1995). This species generally nests in a snag high above the ground in a relatively open area. Nests have been noted in a wide variety of trees up to 50 m (164 ft) high, and, in some cases, shrubs as little as 3 m (9.8 ft) above the ground. Nests usually consist of platforms of small sticks, leaves, weed stalks, and similar materials lined with grass, hay or leaves. This species nests from February through August, with a peak in breeding occurring from late March through July. Typically, four eggs are laid in February and March and chicks hatch after 30-32 days. Juveniles are dependent on parents for two to three months before they fledge. During the non-breeding season, the species roosts communally.

Critical Habitat: White-tailed kite is not listed under the ESA; as such, no critical habitat has been designated.

Habitat Suitability and Occurrence Data: White-tailed kite could be expected to forage on site and occasionally nest on site. Although there are no occurrences of nesting kites in the San Rafael Quad of the CNDDB, long-time residents report that white-tailed kites have nested in Homestead Valley within the last few years.

Special Status Bat Species Four potentially occurring special status bat species were determined to have a potential to occur on these lands. The pallid bat, Townsend’s big-eared bat, western red bat and hoary bat are designated as Special Animals by the CDFG (2011a); the pallid bat, Townsend’s big- eared bat and the western red bat are State Mammalian Species of Special Concern (CDFG 2011a). Each of these bats is considered to have a potential to occur on site, which provides suitable roosting and/or foraging habitat. On HVLT lands, large trees, trees with hollow

16 Division E, Title I, §143 of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2005, PL 108–447 17 CFGC §3511

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limbs, cavities, and snags, trees with peeling bark, and, in some cases, dense foliage all provide potential roosting habitat for bats. In additional, the numerous outbuildings and dwellings provide a variety of roosting opportunities for bats.

The pallid bat (Antrozous pallidus) occurs in a number of habitats from rocky arid deserts, grasslands and into higher elevation coniferous forests. Pallid bats roost in rock crevices, tree hollows, caves and anthropogenic structures; tree roosting includes bole cavities in oaks and inside basal hollows in redwoods, which are present within the study area. These bats occur throughout California. Maternity colonies can be found during the summer months (May through July). Maternity colonies disband between August and October. This species has been recorded in the vicinity of the study area.

Townsend’s big-eared bat (Corynorhinus townsendii) is a medium sized, light brown bat with long ears. This species is primarily a cave dwelling species but can be found in man-made structures and mines and to a lesser extent, bridges and hollow trees. Their primary prey is moths. Females begin to form maternity colonies in March or April, where they rear their young. They have a long gestation period of 56 to 100 days (depending on climate) and the single pups are weaned by 6 weeks. This species is considered particularly vulnerable to human disturbance of roosts. This species had been associated with a wide variety of habitats including coniferous forests, mixed forests, deserts, riparian communities, active agricultural areas, and coastal habitat types.

Western red bats (Lasiurus blossevillii) occur throughout California. These bats are typically solitary and roost primarily in the foliage of trees and shrubs. Day roosts are also found in edge habitats adjacent to streams or open fields, in orchards and sometimes in urban areas. They are also found in intact riparian habitats dominated by willows, sycamore and cottonwood. Females will become pregnant in the spring and give birth 80 to 90 days later.

Hoary bats (Lasiurus cinereus) occur throughout California and are the most widespread of all North American bats. Hoary bats are solitary and roost in foliage of both coniferous and deciduous trees near ends of branches. Birth occurs from May through July. This species has been recorded in the vicinity of the study area near Phoenix Lake 5 km (3 mi) north of Homestead Valley.

2.2.3 Migratory Birds

Migratory passerines and raptors not listed under the ESA or CESA are protected under the MBTA and/or the CFGC.18 Numerous passerine, non-passerine, and raptorial bird species are expected to nest within the study area; both migratory and most non-migratory, resident birds are protected by the MBTA. The following migratory species (and many that are not named here or in the rest of the report) have the potential to nest in the area including barn, tree, and violet green swallows (Hirundo rustica, Tachycineata bicolor, and T. thalassina), Allen’s hummingbird (Selasphorus sasin), orange-crowned warbler (Oreothlypsis celata), Pacific slope flycatcher (Empidonax difficilis) Hutton’s and warbling vireos (Vireo huttoni and V. gilvus), Bullock’s oriole (Icterus bullockii), and western wood-peewee (Contopus sordidulus). As mentioned

18 CFGC §3503.5

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2.2.4 Wildlife Migration Corridors

Under CEQA, impacts are considered significant if a project would interfere substantially with the movement of native resident or migratory fish or wildlife species or with established native resident or migratory wildlife corridors, or impede the use of native wildlife nursery sites. Wildlife corridors (i.e., linear habitats that naturally connect and provide passage between two or more large habitats or habitat fragments) are important for persistence of wildlife overtime. Wildlife must have access to adequate resources, and corridors are used to find suitable forage, nesting and resting sites, mates and new home ranges. In addition, corridors for dispersal within breeding populations will decrease the likelihood that subpopulations will go extinct or become locally extirpated. Even where patches of pristine habitat are fragmented, as commonly occurs with riparian vegetation, wildlife movement between populations is facilitated through habitat linkages, migration corridors and movement corridors.

Wildlife movement includes migration (i.e., usually one direction per season), inter-population movement (i.e., long-term genetic exchange) and small travel pathways (i.e., daily movement within an animal’s home range). Daily movement patterns define an animal’s home range where activities such as foraging, resting and conspecific (individuals of the same species) interactions occur. Generally, longer movements usually by dispersing individuals connect breeding populations, permitting gene flow between these subpopulations. Corridors generally provide adequate habitat for animals to disperse until reaching an area large enough to establish home ranges. Corridors are different depending on what type of organism may use it; a corridor for a butterfly or bird may be a series of “stepping stones” of suitable habitat, while a terrestrial vertebrate may need a continuous band of suitable habitat for successful movement. Habitat loss, fragmentation, and degradation resulting from a change in land use or habitat conversion can alter the use and viability of corridors.

The contiguous natural habitat and associated stream drainages within these lands are subject to human disturbance and are in close proximity to residences. These areas could be used by wildlife to move through the study area to Richardson’s Bay or to open space to the north and west. Proposed vegetation management activities are not anticipated to disrupt the continuity of this wildlife passage. The site is not considered a significant wildlife corridor; project implementation would not restrict the current level of wildlife movement through the site. Stream and riparian habitat could be improved, enhanced, and/or restored in these lands; for example in Stolte Grove (Zone 4), along Reed Creek in Zone 3, and in Zone 6. It is suggested that the HVLT might conduct further research on the possibility of restoring some of the stream and associated riparian habitat. Mill Valley Streamkeepers (http://www.millvalleystreamkeepers.org), and Marin County’s Fishnet 4C program may be helpful in exploring the possibility of restoration.

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2.3 Invasive Plants

Invasive plant species are plants that invade and dominate sufficiently large areas such that they displace native species and cause a reduction in biodiversity or other harm to natural plant communities or natural processes. Invasive species can alter the environment by changing native plant community characteristics (such as plant community composition, structure, and interactions; trophic relationships; and genetic integrity) and abiotic characteristics and processes (such as alterations in fire frequency or intensity, erosion, sedimentation, hydrological regimes, nutrient, and mineral conditions, and light availability). They proliferate in the absence of natural control and interfere with the natural processes that would otherwise occur on these lands. Once established, invasive species can become difficult to manage and can eliminate native species or otherwise alter the ecosystem.

The following section identifies invasive trees, small trees and shrubs, vines and cane-producing shrubs, thistles, perennial grasses, and secondary weeds, and escaped ornamental garden plants that are currently present on these lands, and that currently cause harm or may cause harm in the future. (Refer to Table 2.3 and Figure 4 for information on the type, location, ‘invasiveness” ranking, and potential for each of the target species to invade the lands within CSA 14.)

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Table 2.3 Target Invasive Plants Observed on Lands within CSA 14

Scientific Name Common Name Status (on Lands within CSA‐14) Location (Zones) Total Acres Mapped State Noxious Weed Ranking CalIPC Status Acacia decurrens, Acacia Limited (A. Acacia, black wattle, melanoxylon, other Acacia 1,2 0.34 N/A melanoxy‐ Limited distribution, high impacts, high potential blackwood acacia spp. lon), N/A to spread, high fire risk

Ageratina adenophora Croftonweed N/A N/A N/A Moderate Species identified as priority species for early detection monitoring Arundo donax Giant reed 1 0.01 B High Limited distribution, high potential for spread in wetlands, high impacts Not Carprobrotus edulis Iceplant, Hottentot fig 6 N/A High mapped Limited distribution, high potential for spread

Chasmanthe floribunda African cornflag 1 0.01 N/A Limited Limited distribution‐escaped cultivar that is known to spread rapidly in coastal climates Cortaderia jubata (C. Jubata grass, Pampas grass 1,2,3 0.02 B High Very limited distribution, high potential to spread selloana) and cause impacts) Cotoneaster sp. Cotoneaster 1,2,3,5 1.03 N/A Moderate Limited distribution, high impacts Crocosmia X crocosmiiflora Tiger’s tears, crocosmia 1 0.01 N/A Limited Limited distribution, abundant where found, low impact, moderate potential to spread Cupressus macrocarpa Monterey cypress 1 0.66 N/A Limited Limited distribution, low impact, low potential to spread Cytisus scoparius Scotch broom 3,5,6 1.91 C High Abundant, high impacts Dactylis glomerata Orchard grass N/A N/A N/A Limited Species identified as priority species for early detection monitoring. Delairea odorata Cape ivy, German ivy 1,3,5,7 0.12 N/A High Very limited distribution, high potential to spread and cause impacts Echium candicans Pride of Madeira 1,2,3,6 0.55 N/A Limited Limited distribution, high rate of spread

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Scientific Name Common Name Status (on Lands within CSA‐14) Location (Zones) Total Acres Mapped State Noxious Weed Ranking CalIPC Ranking Species identified as priority species for early Ehrharta erecta Panic veldtgrass, Ehrharta N/A N/A N/A Moderate detection monitoring Limited distribution, moderate impacts, high fire Eucalyptus globulus Tasmanian blue gum 1,2,3,5,6,7 12.5 N/A Moderate risk Limited distribution, low impact, low potential to Euphorbia sp. (terracina) Euphorbia 1 0.02 N/A Moderate spread, easy to eradicate Species identified as priority species for early Festuca arrundinaceae Alta fescue, coarse fescue N/A N/A N/A Moderate detection monitoring Genista monspessulana French broom All 6.58 C High Abundant, high impacts Moderate distribution, abundant here found, high Hedera helix English ivy 1,4,5,6 3.37 N/A High impacts Species identified as priority species for early Helichrysum petiolare Licorice plant N/A N/A N/A Limited detection monitoring Phalaris aquatica Harding grass 1,2,3,6 0.35 N/A Moderate Sparse, widely disbursed, low impacts Limited distribution‐escaped cultivar that is known Phyollostachys aurea Golden bamboo 1 0.01 N/A Limited to spread rapidly in wildlands Native to May have been planted on site. Limited, moderate Pinus radiata Monterey pine 2,3,5 0.32 N/A Monterey potential to spread, easy to control Bay Watch Limited distribution, low impact, moderate Pittosporum Pittosporum sp. 4,6 0.12 N/A List potential to spread, easy to eradicate Limited distribution, low impact, moderate Prunus sp. (cerasifera) Ornamental plum 1,2,3,5,6 0.41 N/A Limited potential to spread, easy to eradicate

Native in NOT MAPPED: Limited distribution‐widespread Not Pseudotsuga menziesii Douglas fir 5,6 N/A many but sparse, moderate impact, moderate potential mapped areas to spread

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Scientific Name Common Name Status (on Lands within CSA‐14) Location (Zones) Total Acres Mapped State Noxious Weed Ranking CalIPC Ranking Moderate distribution , abundant where found, Rubus armeniacus Himalayan blackberry 1,3,7 0.23 N/A High low‐moderate impacts Low distribution, abundant where found, Vinca major Periwinkle 1,3 0.09 N/A Moderate moderate impacts

Total (mapped) Invasive Plant Infestations (acres) 27.67

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RANKING DEFINITIONS State Noxious Weeds “A” A pest of known economic or environmental detriment and is either not known to be established in California or it is present in a limited distribution that allows for the possibility of eradication or successful containment. A‐rated pests are prohibited from entering the state because, by virtue of their rating, they have been placed on the Plant Health and Pest Prevention Services Director’s list of organisms that are “detrimental to agriculture” in accordance with the FAC Sections 5261 and 6461. The only exception is for organisms accompanied by an approved CDFA or USDA live organism permit for contained exhibit or research purposes. If found entering or established in the state, A‐rated pests are subject to state (or commissioner when acting as a state agent) enforced action involving eradication, quarantine regulation, containment, rejection, or other holding action.

“B” A pest of known economic or environmental detriment and, if present in California, it is of limited distribution. B‐rated pests are eligible to enter the state if the receiving county has agreed to accept them. If found in the state, they are subject to state endorsed holding action and eradication only to provide for containment, as when found in a nursery. At the discretion of the individual county agricultural commissioner they are subject to eradication, containment, suppression, control, or other holding action.

"C" A pest of known economic or environmental detriment and, if present in California, it is usually widespread. C‐rated organisms are eligible to enter the state as long as the commodities with which they are associated conform to pest cleanliness standards when found in nursery stock shipments. If found in the state, they are subject to regulations designed to retard spread or to suppress at the discretion of the individual county agricultural commissioner. There is no state enforced action other than providing for pest cleanliness.

"Q" An organism or disorder suspected to be of economic or environmental detriment, but whose status is uncertain because of incomplete identification or inadequate information.

"D" An organism known to be of little or no economic or environmental detriment, to have an extremely low likelihood of weediness, or is known to be a parasite or predator. There is no state enforced action.

N/A No ranking

CalIPC Ranking High These species have severe ecological impacts on physical processes, plant and animal communities, and vegetation structure. Their reproductive biology and other attributes are conducive to moderate to high rates of dispersal and establishment. Most are widely distributed ecologically. Moderate These species have substantial and apparent—but generally not severe—ecological impacts on physical processes, plant and animal communities, and vegetation structure. Their reproductive biology and other attributes are conducive to moderate to high rates of dispersal, though establishment is generally dependent upon ecological disturbance. Ecological amplitude and distribution may range from limited to widespread. Limited These species are invasive but their ecological impacts are minor on a statewide level or there was not enough information to justify a higher score. Their reproductive biology and other attributes result in low to moderate rates of invasiveness. Ecological amplitude and distribution are generally limited, but these species may be locally persistent and problematic. Watch List No ranking at present, but of concern to weed control practitioners. Native Naturally occurring in a particular geographic area. May be a pest in other areas.

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3.0 REGULATORY SETTING

Many biological resources in California are protected and/or regulated by federal, state, and local laws and policies. The following section reviews such laws and policies that may apply to the species and activities that may occur on lands within CSA 14.

3.1 National Environmental Policy Act and California Environmental Quality Act

3.1.1 National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) is a federal law that established a U.S. national policy promoting the enhancement of the environment. NEPA articulates the federal policy that favors protecting the quality of the human environment, and requires federal agencies to consider the impacts of their proposed activities, programs, and projects on the quality of that environment. The human environment is defined as the natural and physical environment, and the relationship of people to that environment.

The purpose of considering impacts (NEPA review) is to help federal agencies decide whether to undertake a proposed action, considering all reasonable alternatives, including the alternative of taking no action, and if so, where, when and how to undertake it. NEPA review also affords other federal and state agencies and the public the opportunity to learn about and influence an agency's decision-making. NEPA requires all federal government agencies to prepare Environmental Assessments (EAs) and Environmental Impact Statements (EISs) that consider the environmental effects of proposed federal agency actions. NEPA also requires that, to the fullest extent possible, analyses and consultations required by other environmental laws be coordinated with those required under NEPA, to reduce redundancy, paperwork, time, and cost.

3.1.2 California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) CEQA is a state law that requires state and local agencies to document and consider the environmental implications of their actions and to refrain from approving projects with significant environmental impacts if there are feasible alternatives or mitigation measures that can substantially lessen or avoid those impacts. The CEQA requires the full disclosure of the environmental impacts of agency actions; such as approval of a general plan update or the projects covered by that plan, on resources such as air quality, water quality, cultural resources, and biological resources.

The State Resources Agency has prepared guidelines for implementing CEQA known as the State CEQA Guidelines, which provide guidance in evaluating impacts of projects to biological resources and determining which impacts will be significant. The CEQA defines “significant effect on the environment” as “a substantial adverse change in the physical conditions which exist in the area affected by the proposed project.” Under the State CEQA Guidelines section 15065, a project's effects on biotic resources are deemed significant where the project would:

• “substantially reduce the habitat of a fish or wildlife species” • “cause a fish or wildlife population to drop below self-sustaining levels” • “threaten to eliminate a plant or animal community” • “reduce the number or restrict the range of a rare or endangered plant or animal”

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In addition to the Section 15065 criteria that trigger mandatory findings of significance, Appendix G of the State CEQA Guidelines provides a checklist of other potential impacts to consider when analyzing the significance of project effects. The impacts listed in Appendix G may or may not be significant, depending on the level of the impact. For biological resources, these impacts include whether the project would:

• “have a substantial adverse effect, either directly or through habitat modifications, on any species identified as a candidate, sensitive, or special status species in local or regional plans, policies, or regulations, or by the California Department of Fish and Game or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service” • “have a substantial adverse effect on any riparian habitat or other sensitive natural community identified in local or regional plans, policies, and regulations or by the California Department of Fish and Game or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service” • “have a substantial adverse effect on federally protected wetlands as defined by Section 404 of the Clean Water Act” • “interfere substantially with the movement of any native resident or migratory fish or wildlife species or with established native resident or migratory wildlife corridors, or impede the use of native wildlife nursery sites” • “conflict with any local policies or ordinances protecting biological resources, such as a tree preservation policy or ordinance” • “conflict with the provisions of an adopted Habitat Conservation Plan, Natural Community Conservation Plan or other approved local, regional, or state habitat conservation plan”

3.2 Wetland Law and Policy

3.2.1 Federal Clean Water Act (Section 404) Section 404 of the federal Clean Water Act (CWA) establishes a requirement for a project applicant to obtain a permit before engaging in any activity that involves any discharge of dredged or fill material into “waters of the United States,” including wetlands. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) and the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) jointly have jurisdiction over “waters of the United States”. Fill material means material placed in waters of the United States where the material has the effect of replacing any portion of a water of the United States with dry land; or changing the bottom elevation of any portion of a water of the United States. Examples of fill material include, but are not limited to, rock, sand, soil, clay, plastics, construction debris, wood chips, overburden from mining or other excavation activities, and material used to create any structure or infrastructure in waters of the United States. Waters of the United States include navigable waters of the United States; interstate waters; all other waters where the use, degradation, or destruction of the waters could affect interstate or foreign commerce; tributaries to any of these waters; and wetlands that meet any of these criteria or that are adjacent to any of these waters or their tributaries. Wetlands are defined as those areas that are inundated or saturated by surface water or groundwater at a frequency and duration sufficient to support, and that under normal circumstances do support, a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions. Many surface waters and wetlands in California meet the criteria for waters of the United States, including intermittent creeks, streams, seasonal lakes, and wetlands that are hydrologically connected to waters of the United States.

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3.2.2 Federal Clean Water Act (Section 401) CWA Section 401(a)(1) specifies that any applicant for a federal license or permit to conduct any activity that may result in any discharge into navigable waters shall provide the federal licensing or permitting agency with a certification that any such discharge will not violate state water quality standards. The California Regional Water Quality Control Boards (RWQCB) administer the Section 401 program with the intent of prescribing measures for projects that are necessary to avoid, minimize, and mitigate adverse impacts on water quality and ecosystems.

3.2.3 State Porter-Cologne Water Quality Control Act The Porter-Cologne Water Quality Control Act provides the basis for water quality regulation within California (see Section IV.F, Water Quality, for additional information). This act allows the state RWQCB to adopt statewide water quality control plans or basin plans. The purpose of the plans is to establish water quality objectives for specific water bodies. Most of the implementation of state RWQCB’s responsibilities is delegated to the nine regional boards. The San Francisco Bay Regional Water Quality Control Board (SFBRWQCB) has prepared the San Francisco Bay Basin Plan that establishes water quality objectives and implementation programs to meet the stated objectives and to protect the beneficial uses of the Bay waters.

The RWQCB must certify that a USACE permit action meets state water quality objectives. Under the Porter-Cologne Water Quality Control Act, wetlands and drainages that are considered waters of the United States by USACE are often classified as waters of the state as well. However, waters of the state can also include waters USACE deems to be isolated or non-jurisdictional under Section 404 of the CWA. Impacts on waters of the state are authorized through Waste Discharge Requirements, which typically require mitigation requiring no net loss of wetlands functions and values of waters of the state.

3.2.4 California Department of Fish and Wildlife Code (Sections 1600-1607) California Fish and Game Code governs state-designated wetlands, including riparian and stream habitat, and mandates that mitigation be implemented to replace wetland extent and value lost to development. Sections 1600-1607 of the California Fish and Game Code regulate activities that would affect rivers, streams, or lakes by altering the flow, substantially change or use any materials from the bed, channel or bank of any river, stream or lake, or disposing of debris. Activities that affect these areas, as well as associated riparian habitats, would require a Streambed Alteration Permit from the CDFW.

3.3 Protection of Birds, State and Federal Endangered Species Acts

3.3.1 Federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act The Migratory Bird Treaty Act makes it unlawful to “take” (kill, harm, harass, shoot, etc.) any migratory bird listed in 50CFR 10, including their nests, eggs, or young. Migratory birds include geese, ducks, shorebirds, raptors, songbirds, and seabirds.

3.3.2 Federal Endangered Species Act The federal Endangered Species Act (ESA) provides legislation to protect federally listed plant and animal species. Impacts to listed species resulting from the implementation of a project would require the responsible agency to consult the USFWS. Section 7 of the ESA requires that all federal agencies must, in consultation with the USFWS or National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), ensure that its (the agency’s) actions do not jeopardize the continued existence of a listed species, or destroy or adversely modify the listed species’ “critical habitat.” Section 10 of the Act describes the

FINAL DRAFT process by which take permits are issued by USFWS/NMFS for take of listed species incidental to an otherwise lawful activity.

Pursuant to the federal Endangered Species Act (ESA) of 1973 (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.), as amended, USFWS has regulatory authority over federally listed species. Under ESA, a permit to “take” a listed species is required for any federal action that may harm an individual of that species. “Take” is defined under Section 9 of ESA as “to harass, harm, pursue, hunt, shoot, wound, kill, trap, capture, or collect, or attempt to engage in any such conduct.” Under federal regulation, take is further defined to include habitat modification or degradation where it would be expected to result in death or injury to listed wildlife by significantly impairing essential behavioral patterns, including breeding, feeding, or sheltering. In addition to listed species, the USFWS publishes a list of candidate species for which it has sufficient biological information to support a proposal to list as endangered or threatened. Species on this list are not protected under FESA, but they receive special attention during environmental review.

3.3.3 California Endangered Species Act The California Endangered Species Act (CESA) directs state agencies not to approve projects that would jeopardize the continued existence of an endangered or threatened species or result in the destruction or adverse modification of habitat essential to the continued existence of a species. Furthermore, CESA states that reasonable and prudent alternatives shall be developed by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (formerly the California Department of Fish and Game) together with the project proponent and any state lead agency, consistent with conserving the species, while at the same time maintaining the project purpose to the greatest extent possible. A “take” of a species, under CESA, is defined as an activity that would directly or indirectly kill an individual of a species. The CESA definition of take does not include “harm” or “harass” as is included in the federal act. As a result, the threshold for a take under CESA may be higher than under ESA because habitat modification is not necessarily considered take under CESA.

Sections 2081(b) and (c) of CESA allow CDFG to issue an incidental take permit for a state-listed threatened and endangered species only if the following specific criteria are met: (1) that take is incidental to an otherwise lawful activity; (2) that the impacts of the authorized take have been minimized and fully mitigated; (3) that the permit is consistent with regulations adopted pursuant to Sections 2112 and 2114; (4) that the applicant has ensured adequate funding to implement minimization and mitigation measures and monitor these measures for compliance and effectiveness; and (5) that issuance of the permit will not jeopardize the continued existence of a state-listed species.

Should the project applicant receive authorization to take federally listed species under the federal ESA, take authorization may also be sought as a “consistency determination” from CDFG under Section 2080.1 of CESA. If CDFG determines that the federal statement/permit is not consistent with CESA, the applicant must apply for a state incidental take permit under section 2081(b) of the Fish and Game Code.

Section 3503 of the California Fish and Game Code states that it is unlawful to take, possess, or needlessly destroy the nest or eggs of any bird. Section 3503.5 of the California Fish and Game Code specifically states that it is unlawful to take, possess, or destroy any raptors (e.g., hawks, owls, eagles, and falcons), including their nests or eggs.

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Sections 1900-1913 codify the Native Plant Protection Act, which is intended to preserve, protect, and enhance endangered or rare native plants in the state. The act directs CDFW to establish criteria for determining what native plants are rare or endangered. Under Section 1901, a species is endangered when its prospects for survival and reproduction are in immediate jeopardy from one or more cause. A species is rare when, although not threatened with immediate extinction, it is in such small numbers throughout its range that it may become endangered if its present environment worsens. Under the act, the California Fish and Game Commission may adopt regulations governing the taking, possessing, propagation, or sale of any endangered or rare native plant.

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4.0 LAND MANAGEMENT ACTIONS

This section outlines current and future land management actions on lands within CSA 14. Refer to Table 4 for a summary of all land management projects addressed under this Land Management Plan and to the sections below for a more detailed description of actions presented by topic area.

4.1 Fire Fuel Reduction

4.1.1. Current Fire Fuel Reduction Actions

As outlined in HVLT’s Ten Year Plan and its 2011 Fire Fuel Reduction Projects program (results updated from Wood Biological Consulting 2012), current fire fuel management activities include:  clearing brush that would function as a fuel ladder in groves of trees;  spot removal of highly combustible pine, fir and small eucalyptus trees;  removing dead trees, tree limbs, and woody debris; and  maintaining (clearing) defensible spaces near residences that abut lands within CSA 14.

Each of these projects generally include fire fuel reduction in a specified geographic area and zone.

General steps involved include:  Cutting brush and grasses to ground level using brushcutters, weedeaters, mowers or other light equipment.  Removing tree seedlings and saplings from the understory.  Limbing up mature trees to a height of 10 ft to break the vegetation connection (fuel ladder) between ground and canopy vegetation.  Treating invasive plants. For broom, eucalyptus, and acacia species (plants that sprout from a cut stump) the preferred method is to cut and spot treat with herbicides immediately after cutting or mowing (as approved by County IPM and overseen by a PCA).  Treating green waste. Collect and chip cut materials or collect and stack in low tight wind rows onsite (suggested pile dimension: no more than 3 ft high, 4 ft wide and 4 ft long, each pile separated by at least 10 ft). For invasive plants, store green waste within already infested areas to prevent spread to other areas.  Following initial treatment, initiate annual inspection and mowing/hand pulling treatments to keep area functional for fire management purposes  As needed, install erosion control, seeding mixtures, or rooted plant material to restore the site to natural conditions.

4.1.2. Proposed Fire Fuel Reduction Actions

In addition to the specific projects that HVLT will continue to implement, the following recommended actions should be implemented, as staffing and funding allow:  Work with fire agencies to map DSZs in all Zones, and reassess those DSZs every 5-10 years to determine if the overall site is meeting fire management objectives. (DSZs are defined to include lands within 100 ft of habitable structures.)  Work with Marin County, GGNRA, fire agencies, and adjacent property owners to help establish and maintain DSZs.  Implement a long-term forest stand conversion program to reduce, and eventually replace, eucalyptus and acacia forests (as described in Table 4 and in Section 4.2).

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Table 4. List of Potential Land Management Actions

Estimated Project Zone(s) Description Treatment Area

Zone‐Wide Projects Early (1) Finalize/update annual list of priority invasive plants in coordination with Marin Detection/ All (on a County and CalIPC. (2) Patrol selected zones as part of a 3‐year cycle. (3) If new Rapid rotational weeds found, immediately implement control and map location. (4) Update GIS as 85 ac Response 5 year feasible. (5) Continue to monitor treated incipient infestations until either full Invasive Plant cycle) control or eradication achieved. Watch

Road and Trail (1) Conduct annual road and trail assessments. (2) Identify maintenance areas, Assessment, All assess and prioritize using established procedures. (3) Conduct annual 85 ac Maintenance (Annually) mowing/brushing and maintenance. and Brushing

Invasive Plant Control Projects (1) Reassess French broom (and other broom species) control actions to date using the methods outlined in Chapter 6 within the preserves listed below. Remap and Implement reassess distribution relative to ongoing mowing, fuels management, road and trail focused locations.. Determine if any of these other actions are affecting spread of brooms broom and if so, modify methods to reduce potential for spread (example, change control. mowing schedule to reduce inadvertent spread, expand wide‐area fuel break or defensible space zone boundaries to capture infestation edges, or discontinue/alter land use practices (e.g. restrict vehicle access, etc.). (2) Assess if current 85 ac Adjust if control/containment locations are highest priority locations for control as outlined new priority in Chapter 6. Add or delete control locations following assessment. (3) Meet with locations MCFD and other fire agencies to discuss opportunities to conduct dual fuel are reduction/invasive plant control projects for broom. (4) Establish a volunteer‐based identified weed watch program to complement control actions and conduct ongoing volunteer EDRR patrol and hand pull throughout the year. (5) Implement follow‐up maintenance and monitoring program for remaining brooms until eradication and/or control is achieved. Initial treatments were conducted as part of fire fuel reduction projects; follow‐up treatments have been conducted routinely, but full control has not been achieved. In these Zones, broom species continue to be very widespread and density of Control French plants is moderate to heavy. In these Zones: (1) Discontinue hand pulling as the Broom primary control method until sustained control is achieved. (2) Switch primary Zones 2, 3, control method to a combination of mowing followed by cut and spot treat re‐ Approx. 30 ac 6 and 7 sprouting with herbicides until 80% control is achieved, then (3) When 80% control is achieved, switch to hand pulling, or a combination of flaming, followed by hand pulling. (4) Collect and chip cut materials or collect and stack in low tight windrows onsite (no more than 3 ft high, 4 ft wide and 4 ft long, each pile separated by at least 10 ft). For invasive plants, store green waste within infested areas to prevent spread to other areas. More than one round of treatments will be required for the first 3‐5 years. Initial treatments were conducted as part of fire fuel reduction or restoration projects; follow‐up treatments have been conducted routinely, but full control has not been achieved. (1) Conduct focused broom control for 1‐3 years starting with hand‐pulling individual plants and sparse occurrences in mostly cleared areas (i.e. clear broom in each zone back to the moderate to dense occurrences, until Zones 1, containment areas are created. (2) Once containment is achieved, switch primary Approx. 10 ac and 5 control method to a combination of mowing followed by cut and spot treat re‐ sprouts with herbicides until 80% control is achieved, then; (3) Switch to hand pulling, or a combination of flaming, followed by hand pulling. (4) Collect and chip cut materials or collect and stack in low tight windrows onsite (no more than 3 ft. high, 4 ft wide and 4 ft long, each pile separated by at least 10 ft). For invasive plants, store green waste within infested areas to prevent spread to other areas. More than one round of treatments will be required for the first 3‐5 years.

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Estimated Project Zone(s) Description Treatment Title Area

Prioritize the annual control of sparse pioneer invasive plants at Cowboy Rock (Zone 3). The site is almost free of invasives; and systematic control of remaining invasives will help reduce future maintenance actions at the site. Control of invasive plants should focus on pampas grass clusters that are invading from private property (to the west); and control of Harding grass and thistle at the grassland/disturbed area (interface at Edgewood Ave.); and control of broom throughout the site.

Zone 3 (1) Conduct invasive plant control “sweeps” of the entire site for 1‐3 years starting with hand‐pulling individual plants and sparse occurrences, in mostly cleared areas Approx. 5 ac (i.e. clear broom in each zone back to the moderate to dense occurrences, until containment areas are created. (2) Once containment is achieved, switch primary control method to a combination of mowing followed by cut and spot treat re‐ sprouts with herbicides until 80% control is achieved, then; (3) Switch to hand pulling, or a combination of flaming, followed by hand pulling. (4) Collect and chip cut materials or collect and stack in low tight windrows onsite (no more than 3 ft. Control Other high, 4 ft wide and 4 ft long, each pile separated by at least 10 ft). For invasive Invasives plants, store green waste within infested areas to prevent spread to other areas.

Zones 1 and 2 – Control Sparse Invasives in Native Perennial Grasslands. Prioritize removal of invasives in areas mapped as native perennial grassland within Zones 1 and 2. These areas are considered to have some of the highest resource values for native plant and wildlife species; and actions to prevent establishment of invasives are considered important to maintaining these resource values over time. Zones 1 Approx. 2 ac and 2 (1) Conduct invasive plant control “sweeps” of the perennial grasslands for 1‐3 years starting with hand‐pulling individual plants and sparse occurrences, in mostly cleared areas (i.e. clear broom in each zone back to the moderate to dense occurrences, until control is achieved. (2) Collect and chip cut materials or collect and stack in low tight windrows onsite (no more than 3 ft high, 4 ft wide and 4 ft long, each pile separated by at least 10 ft). For invasive plants, store green waste within infested areas to prevent spread to other areas.

Remove/control English ivy, periwinkle, and pittosporum in and adjacent to the banks of Reed Creek. The creek and associated redwood grove and riparian vegetation are considered to have some of the highest resource values for native plant and wildlife species; and actions to prevent establishment of invasives are considered important to maintaining these resource values over time.

Starting with the banks of Reed Creek, cut and roll ivy and periwinkle like a carpet, then cover with black plastic (to solarize), or, if herbicide is used, select herbicides that are EPA approved for use near water. The most effective approach includes cutting the stems and then immediately spot treating with herbicide. When covering the cut materials or work area with black plastic, leave black plastic in place for 1‐2 years, until remaining invasive plant material is dead. Work in small sections, and then move to adjacent areas until the entire creek corridor is free of Control Other Zone 4 Approx. ½ ac invasive plants. (NOTE: Because it is a wetland, Reed Creek is subject to regulation Invasives by state and federal resource agencies. Work within the creek banks will require and compliance with various regulatory permitting processes).

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Estimated Project Zone(s) Description Treatment Area

Fire Management Projects  Year 1: Zone 7 (Laverne Ave to Chapman Rd to GGNRA boundary). Remove fuel ladders and treat broom in the Zone 7 treatment area. (1) Cut brush to ground level using brushcutters, weedeaters, and/or mowers. (2) Cut and spot treat broom, acacia, and eucalyptus species immediately after cutting or mowing. (3) Limb up trees to a height of 10 ft. (4) Collect and chip cut materials or collect and stack in low tight windrows onsite (no more than 3 ft high, 4 ft wide and 4 ft long, each pile separated by at least 10 ft). For invasive plants, store green waste within infested areas to prevent spread to other areas. (5) Following treatment, initiate annual inspection and mowing/hand pulling treatments to keep area functional.  Year 2: Zone 6 (Madrone Park Circle to Ferndale Ave). Remove fuel ladders and treat broom in the Zone 7 treatment area. (1) Cut brush to ground level using brushcutters, weedeaters, and/or mowers. (2) Cut and spot treat broom, acacia, and eucalyptus species immediately after cutting or mowing.(3) Limb up trees to a height of 10 ft. (4) Collect and chip cut materials or collect and stack in low tight windrows onsite (no more than 3 ft. high, 4 ft wide and 4 ft. long, each pile separated by at least 10 ft). For invasive plants, store green waste within infested areas to prevent spread to other areas. (5) Replant area with native oak woodland species (see restoration projects below). (6) Following treatment, initiate annual inspection and mowing/hand pulling treatments to maintain plantings and keep area functional.  Year 3: Zone 5 (Adjacent to Year 2 Work, Madrone Park Circle to Ferndale Ave). Follow same procedures as described above for Year 2 project.  Year 4: Zone 5 (West End of Ridgewood Ave) Eucalyptus Reduction. (1) Remove understory saplings, brush, and woody debris. (2) Cut and spot treat any eucalyptus or other invasives immediately after. (3) Treat green Fire Fuel waste by chipping and blowing smaller cut material into small piles or Reduction All windrows no more than 3 ft high, 4 ft wide, and 4 ft long. Piles should be Approx. 15 ac (HVLT 10‐year separated by 10 ft or more. For logs, cut into sections and stack close to Plan) ground (minimal air space between logs) using same pile dimensions. (4) Treat seedlings and resprouts for at least 3‐5 years to achieve sustained control. (5) Implement conversion to oak woodland slowly over time (see restoration projects below).  Year 5: Zone 3 Defensible Space Zone Clearing (Cowboy Rock) Clear defensible space near houses at the west side of the property. Remove pine trees near Edgewood Ave. by cutting to ground level (no need for herbicide application). Remove other fuel ladders/treat broom in the Zone 3 treatment area. (1) Cut brush to ground level using brushcutters, weedeaters, and/or mowers. (2) Cut and spot treat broom, pampas grass, and other invasive species immediately after cutting or mowing. (3) Limb up any remaining native trees in the work area to a height of 10 ft. (4) Collect and chip cut materials or collect and stack in low tight windrows onsite (no more than 3 ft high, 4 ft wide, and 4 ft long, each pile separated by at least 10 ft). For invasive plants, store green waste within infested areas to prevent spread to other areas. (5) Replant area with native oak woodland species (see restoration projects below). (6) Following treatment, initiate annual inspection and mowing/hand pulling treatments to maintain plantings and keep area functional.  Year 7: Zone 2 Upper Pixie Lane Eucalyptus Reduction. (1) Remove understory saplings, brush, and woody debris. (2) Cut and spot treat any eucalyptus or other invasives immediately after cutting. (3) Treat green waste by chipping and blowing smaller cut material into small piles or windrows no more than 3 ft high, 4 ft wide, and 4 ft long. Piles should be separated by 10 ft or more. For logs, cut into sections and stack close to ground (minimal air space between logs) using same pile dimensions. (4) Treat seedlings and resprouts for at least 3‐5 years to achieve sustained control. (5) Implement conversion to oak woodland slowly over time using procedures outlined below.

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 Year 8: Pixie Lane to Hart Lane to Edgewood Ave., Eucalyptus Reduction. Follow same procedures as Year 7.  Year 9. Zone 6: GGNRA Boundary Lands (Ridgewood to 4‐Corners). Remove fuel ladders/treat broom in the Zone 7 treatment area. (1) Cut brush to ground level using brushcutters, weedeaters, and/or mowers. (2) Cut and spot treat broom, acacia, and eucalyptus species immediately after cutting or mowing. (3) Limb up trees to a height of 10 ft. (4) Collect and chip cut materials or collect and stack in low tight windrows onsite (no more than 3 ft high, 4 ft wide, and 4 ft long, each pile separated by at least 10 ft). For invasive plants, store green waste within infested areas to prevent spread to other areas. (5) Replant area with native oak woodland species. (6) Following treatment, initiate annual inspection and mowing/hand pulling treatments to maintain plantings and keep area functional.  Year 10: Zone 5 GGNRA Boundary Lands (Laverne Ave at Eagle Trail to GGNRA boundary). Follow same procedures as Year 9.

Coordination Assess DSZs on open space lands every 5‐10 years. Reassess project list to reflect with Fire All risk levels, and condition of DSZ’s. Work with Marin County, fire agencies, and Approx. 5 ac Agencies GGNRA to reach out to adjacent property owners and implement state fire code and DSZ standards.

Habitat Restoration Projects  Year 2: Zone 6 Restoration Planting following Fire Fuel Reduction (Madrone Park Circle to Ferndale Ave). Following fire fuel reduction, replant oak woodland species. Plant oaks approximately 10 ft on center (for a one acre site that equals 436 trees). At maturity, expect about 50% survival rate). Monitor plantings for about 5 years, continue invasive control, and then install understory shrubs and flowering plants when oaks are established. Refer to oak woodland planting list in Appendix B.  Year 4: Zone 5 Restoration Following Eucalyptus Reduction (West End of Ridgewood Ave). Following eucalyptus removal, manage site for invasive species for 3‐5 years, until control is achieved. Then, initiate oak woodland stand conversion slowly by planting trees over a 5‐year period. Replant site Habitat with an open canopy oak savannah/native grassland species. Plant oaks Restoration Zones 3, 5, approximately 15 ft on center (for a one acre site that equals 195 trees). At Approx. 3 ac (HVLT 10‐year and 6 maturity, expect about 50% survival rate. Hand broadcast native perennial Plan) grassland seed mix (Appendix B). Monitor plantings for about 5 years, continue invasive control, and then install understory shrubs and flowering plants when oaks are established. Refer to oak woodland planting list in Appendix B.  Year 5 Zone 3: Restoration Planting following Fire Fuel Reduction (Cowboy Rock). Following fire fuel reduction, replant oak savannah/native grassland species. Plant oaks approximately. 15 ft on center (for a one acre site that equals 195 trees). At maturity, expect about 50% survival rate. Hand broadcast native perennial grassland seed mix (Appendix B). Monitor plantings for about 5 years, continue invasive control, and then install understory shrubs and flowering plants when oaks are established. Refer to oak woodland planting list in Appendix B.

Formalize the ongoing eucalyptus forest/stand conversion project (Zone 2). Set a 30 year time frame for the conversion that includes actions each year to accomplish this goal. The actions would include:

 Repeated and more rigorous invasive plant treatments to achieve sustained control (Broom control and eucalyptus sapling removal) of invasives within Eucalyptus the first 5 years of treatment. Switch from hand pulling and mechanical Forest Stand Zone 2 control (mowing), to a carefully timed combination of mechanical and Approx. 10 ac Conversion chemical control. Following the first 5 years of treatment, continue to monitor and spot treat individual invasive plants using hand and chemical control methods.

 Following achievement of sustained control of invasives (presumably within the first 5 years), begin a 25 year program of systematically removing small clusters of eucalyptus trees, then immediately planting the removal sites with oak seedlings in a manner that accomplishes full stand conversion in 25

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years (i.e., divide the project area into 25 subsections, then systematically remove eucalyptus trees until all are removed). Seek to plant in a naturalistic pattern (i.e., stagger planting ages and locations to mimic conditions in a natural oak woodland). Refer to Appendix B for a list of oak woodland plantings. Plant oaks approximately 15 ft on center (for a one acre site that equals 195 trees). At maturity, expect about 50% survival rate). Hand broadcast native perennial grassland seed mix (Appendix B).

 When the majority of mature eucalyptus trees have been removed and oaks are establishing (in about Year 20), plant additional oak woodland understory species to help ensure natural biodiversity is restored (Appendix B).

Train Maintenance Projects Assess trail usage/linkages in Zones 6 and 7. Using GIS trail assessment data, determine which social trails, as well as redundant, small, spur, and under‐utilized Road and Trail Zones 6 and unsustainable trails should be decommissioned. Begin decommissioning Approx. 2 ac Maintenance and 7 process by no longer conducting active maintenance. Cease any maintenance of trails not on lands within CSA 14. As needed, actively decommission trails by placing brush over trail tread, installing restoration signage, and/or by regarding/resurfacing trails (hand work or light machine (e.g., bobcat, Sweeco).

Partner with GGNRA to Maintain Ingress/Egress for Emergency and Maintenance Zones 6 Vehicles on Fire Roads that Link CSA 14 lands to GGNRA lands (Zones 6 and 7). Approx. 10 ac and 7 Most likely will requiring brushing and possibly some light re‐grading to maintain tread width over time. Assure that roads and trails that ultimately cross GGNRA boundary are identified as system roads and trails by GGNRA

Visitor Outreach and Education Projects

Establish/re‐establish a Volunteer Program to assist HVLT with: monitoring and control (hand pulling) of invasive plants, monitoring and planting of native and Volunteer sensitive species;; trail maintenance; and monitoring and remediation of non‐ All Zones 85 ac Program conforming trail uses. .

Collaborate with Parks’ Volunteer Coordinator and with GGNRA staff on project scope, and to increase efficiency and capacity.

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4.2 Habitat Restoration

4.2.1. Current Habitat Restoration Actions

As part of its Lands Maintenance Policy, the HVLT also engages in reforestation and habitat restoration. Reforestation and habitat restoration work involves removal of invasive, and potentially fire hazardous vegetation, weeding, and planting. Work is severely limited by available resources; most habitat restoration work is planned as part of fire management and fuel reduction projects (described above under Section 4.1) and is focused on the control of invasive plants such as French and Spanish broom, although several oak plantings have occurred over the years.

Activities include hand pulling, mowing, and brush cutting invasive plants and removing accumulated forest debris and litter (in Eucalyptus forests), then planting the site with native oak woodland species. Prior to 2009, invasive plants were at times treated with herbicide (typically glyphosate). HVLT staff anecdotally report that the overall number and density of invasives has increased exponentially since herbicide use was abandoned in 2009.

4.2.2. Proposed Habitat Restoration Actions

Habitat restoration activities are underway in most Zones. In addition to the projects listed in that plan, the following projects are recommended for implementation as staffing and funding allow (See Table 4 for more detail):

 Formalize the ongoing eucalyptus forest/stand conversion project (Zone 2). Set a 30-year time frame for the conversion that includes actions each year to accomplish this goal.  Prioritize the annual control of sparse pioneer invasive plants at Cowboy Rock (Zone 3). The site is almost invasive free, and systematic control of remaining invasives will help reduce future maintenance actions at the site.  Prioritize invasive (broom) removal in areas mapped as native perennial grassland (Zones 1 and 2). These areas are considered to have some of the highest resource values for native plant and wildlife species, and actions to prevent establishment of invasives are considered important to maintaining these resource values over time.  Consider a program to remove/control English ivy, periwinkle, and pittosporum in and adjacent to the banks of Reed Creek. The creek and associated redwood grove and riparian vegetation are considered to have some of the highest resource values for native plant and wildlife species, and actions to prevent establishment of invasives are considered important to maintaining these resource values over time.

4.3 Road and Trail Management

4.3.1. Current Road and Trail Management Actions

The HVLT engages in routine road and trail management activities. This work involves the periodic clearing of overgrown vegetation (i.e., trail brushing or mowing to keep trails clear of vegetation), ongoing trail repairs (e.g., trail resurfacing, repair of ruts, resurfacing with chips or gravel/fill in wet spots, installation of water bars and trail surface stabilization, repair of bridges, stairs, and water crossings), and repair of gates, signs, trailheads, and other facilitates to help ensure safe access for visitors traversing the open space. (See Figure 5 for location of roads and trails on lands within CSA 14.)

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Road and trail management also includes visitor use issues such as trash pickup, dog waste removal, and domestic pet control. Maintenance work is ongoing. A member of the HVLT Board, or other point of contact, is assigned to each Zone and routinely assesses each Zone for maintenance issues. Board members or points of contact meet to determine what road and trail maintenance actions are considered priority and necessitate immediate attention. No set schedule is assigned to maintenance activities, however most work, including road and trail brushing and mowing, takes place in the early spring (February-March).

4.3.2. Planned Road and Trail Management Actions

No project-specific road and trail management actions are currently planned, with the exception of facility repair at Stolte Grove/3 Groves (Zone 4), as described in Section 4.6 below (refer to Table 4 for a list of proposed road and trail maintenance actions).

4.3.3 Recommended Road and Trail Management Actions

The following road and trail management activities (see Table 4 for more detail) are recommended for implementation as staffing and funding allow:  Decommission redundant, small, spur, and under-utilized and unsustainable trails in Zones 6 and 7 by no longer conducting active maintenance. Cease any trail maintenance on lands outside of CSA 14.  Partner with GGNRA to maintain ingress/egress access for emergency vehicles on fire roads that link CSA 14 lands to GGNRA lands (Zones 6 and 7). • Collaborate with GGNRA to identify trail alignments on CSA 14 lands that connect to illegal or unrecognized trails on GGNRA lands; and work with GGNRA to facilitate resolution, including re-routing or decommissioning certain alignments. Collaborate with GGNRA on maintenance and improvement of recognized system trails that cross both jurisdictions.

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4.4 Visitor Outreach and Education

At present, the HVLT conducts informal visitor outreach and provides outreach materials (e.g. web site postings, newsletters, informational signs). HVLT also hosts volunteer work days and events at Stolte Grove. There are currently no formal plans for future visitor outreach and/or educational projects or programs.

To help promote more volunteer participation in land management actions, the following (see Table 4 for more detail) are recommended:

 Establish/reestablish a Volunteer Program to assist HVLT with monitoring and removal (i.e., hand pulling) of invasive plants, monitoring of native species, restoration of native species and habitats, maintenance of recognized systems on CSA 14 lands, trail, monitoring and remediation of non-conforming trail uses,.  Collaborate with GGNRA regarding road and trail use and maintenance, where roads and trails cross CSA 14 lands and GGNRA lands; and on establishment and maintenance of DSZs. Collaborate with Parks Volunteer Coordinator and with GGNRA staff to increase capacity, efficiency, and success.

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5.0 BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES FOR VEGETATION MANAGEMENT

5.1 Fire Fuel Reduction

The following Best Management Practices (BMPs) will maximize the effectiveness of fire fuel reduction actions.

Table 5.1 Best Management Practices Related to Fire Fuel Reduction

Best Management Practices Related to Fire Fuel Reduction BMP‐Fire Fuel Brush collected as a result of fuel reduction activity will be treated using the Reduction‐1 following guidelines:  Pile burning is a method of brush removal. Cut material is piled by hand Process Green in locations that minimize the scorching of overstory trees or Waste To surrounding vegetation. Once the pile is constructed, a small amount of Reduce Risk of flammable fluid is lit in a specialized firing device (drip‐torch) and the Ignition pile is burned. Pile burning will be conducted in accordance with Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD) Regulation 5, and all applicable federal, state and local ordinances. Pile burning shall require review and approval by Parks and be implemented by the appropriate fire agency or Parks. Per regulation 5, BAAQMD will be notified prior to any pile burning activity.  Brush to be left onsite will be chipped or cut into sections that will stack flat to reduce the potential for ignition. Limit the size of brush piles to 4 cubic yards or less, and space them to minimize impacts to soils from high impact fires.  Logs should be cut in short sections and stacked flat against the ground in piles 4 ft by 4 ft in size and no more than 4 ft high, spaced 12 ft apart.  Chips should be piled no higher than 3 ft high to reduce potential for combustion.  Branches should be chipped or removed from the site. Do not mix logs and chips.  Duff and woody debris should be chipped or removed from the site.  Chips can be used as mulch, in some instances, to control non‐natives (e.g., ivy). BMP‐Fire Fuel At present, these lands support two special status species: Northern spotted owl Reduction‐2 in Zone 7 and Oakland star tulip in Zone 6. Use these guidelines to reduce the potential for impacts to these species: Develop Plans  Northern spotted owl: Time fire fuel reduction work in Zone 7, within a ¼ for Managing mile radius of known populations, to occur after bird nesting season (i.e. Fuels within after July 31st and before February 1st of each year) and avoid removal or Special Status damage to trees near the historic nest site(s). Populations  Oakland star tulip: This plant is an annual bulb, so time fire fuel reduction work in Zone 6, near known populations, to occur when the above‐ground parts of the plant have died off (late summer‐ winter). Avoid ground disturbance around known populations where possible (i.e. avoid damaging underground the bulbs).

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Best Management Practices Related to Fire Fuel Reduction BMP‐Fire Fuel Use these guidelines when to reduce the potential for impacts to these species, Reduction‐3 especially when doing work during bird nesting season (March 15th‐August 15th):  Time tree removal and brush trimming work to after bird nesting season Protect Nesting (i.e. conduct work after August 15th and before March 1st) wherever Birds possible.  If work must occur during bird nesting season (March 1st‐August 15th), conduct a pre‐project survey for nesting birds and proceed with work only if birds are not nesting within the project area. If bird nests are found, delay work until after August 15th.

BMP‐Fire Fuel The following practices are recommended to reduce the potential spread of Reduction‐4 invasive plant species to non‐infested areas.  When working in an invasive plant infested area, chip and leave in place Reduce Potential debris that could contain invasive plant seeds or rooted material. Allow for Spread of chips to decompose within the already‐infested areas. Invasive Plants  Whenever possible, time fuel reduction actions (i.e., mowing and brushing) to occur when invasive plants are not in fruit or flower.  When leaving an infested area, clean equipment (brush off vegetation debris) before working in uninfested areas.  Restrict the movement or deposition of fill, rock, or other materials that could contain invasive plant seed or viable plant cuttings in areas that are relatively free of invasive plants.  Require contractors to clean equipment before entering CSA 14 lands, when moving between sites within the lands, and before leaving a project site.

BMP‐Fire Fuel The only listed species present is the northern spotted owl. This action would Reduction‐5 ONLY apply if and when a wildfire requires emergency clearing in Zone 7 near the known owl site. Follow Procedures for When emergency actions (such as constructing emergency fire breaks during a Take of Listed wildfire) must be taken to prevent imminent loss of human life or property and Species these actions would result in a taking of listed species or adverse modification of critical habitat not covered under an existing biological opinion, respond to the situation in an expedient manner to protect human health and safety. After the incident is under control, initiate emergency consultation procedures with the appropriate agency(ies).

BMP‐Fire Fuel HVLT will work with Marin County and fire agencies to fulfill requirements to Reduction‐6 establish DSZs around structures; and where possible, support efforts to:  Promote clearance of Low Fuel Zone (0‐30 ft from all structures): Establish • Educate, and encourage neighbors to clear away vegetation and Defensible Space combustible growth a minimum of 30 ft away from homes Zones adjacent to lands within CSA 14. If a wooden deck is part of the back of the home, this 30 ft distance starts from the edge of the deck outward.

 The following are general guidelines for desired vegetation conditions within the Low Fuel Zone: • Brush and invasive plants must be cut to the ground, raked up,

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Best Management Practices Related to Fire Fuel Reduction and removed from the property. Single specimens of trees and shrubbery used as ground cover can remain, provided that they do not form a means of rapidly transmitting fire from the native growth to any structure.

• Trim trees horizontally to at least 10 ft away from the home and decks. If a homeowner wishes to keep a tree within this 10 ft distance, they must trim any nearby trees a minimum of 10 ft away from this tree within this first 30 ft space.

• Large trees must be limbed up to a minimum of 8 ft above the ground, and smaller trees limbed up proportionately.

• Homes that are on a slope should have an additional defensible space created.  Establish Reduced Fuel Zone (30‐100 ft from structures). The following are general guidelines for desired vegetation condition within the Reduced Fuel Zone. Some of this Zone may fall within adjacent lands as well as lands within CSA 14: . In this additional 70 ft space, the vegetation should be cut so that it is not more than 18 inches above the ground. The cut vegetation can be left in place (as described in BMP‐Fuel Management‐1).

. Trees should also be limbed up a minimum of 8 ft above the ground for large trees and proportionately for smaller trees.

. Remove any dead vegetation (branches, dead trees etc.).

. Remove or reduce understory vegetation. Flammable vegetation and combustible growth should be cut and removed from below the canopies of the trees in this space.

. Break up “continuous” vegetation. Sometimes wildland plants can occur as an uninterrupted layer of vegetation (as opposed to being patchy or widely spaced individual plants). The more continuous and dense the vegetation, the greater the wildfire threat. If this situation is present within your recommended defensible space area, you should “break‐it‐ up” by creating patches or spaces between small groups of plants (mow, cut, and remove).

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5.2 Forest Stand Conversions from Non-Native (Invasive) Forests to Native Woodlands

There are several mature stands of eucalyptus and acacia on lands within CSA 14. While it may be cost-prohibitive to convert all of these forests to oak woodlands, it may be possible to target one or two zones or sections of forested areas nearest to houses (in or near DSZ’s) and select these areas to conduct a very slow forest stand conversion project or projects over a 30-year timeframe.

Refer to Table 5.2 for an overview of standard practices intended to maximize effectiveness of a eucalyptus-to-oak woodland stand conversion.

Table 5.2 Best Management Practices for Conversion of Non-Native Forest to Oak Woodlands

Best Management Practices for Conversion of Non‐Native Forests to Oak Woodlands Use the following guidelines for sequentially converting invasive forest BMP‐Forest (eucalyptus forest, acacia woodlands) to native oak woodland over a 30 year Conversion‐1 period:  Identify and mark the edges of the invasive woodland to be converted Undertake with permanent markers (project is long term‐ therefore marking should Targeted Forest be permanent and durable such as rebar stakes or fence posts). Stand  Assess the current condition of the forest: most lands have been treated Conversions in the past for fuel reduction; therefore most are in varying stages of management. Determine most appropriate actions for each individual site, then implement one or more of the following: • Control invasives in understory. Conduct repeated invasive plant treatments (usually broom control and sapling removal) to achieve sustained control of invasives within 5 years. Accomplishing sustained control will require switching to a combination of mechanical and chemical control, followed by repeated maintenance using hand and chemical control for an additional 5‐10 up to 35 years.

• Systematically remove clusters of mature trees, then plant native trees. Following achievement of sustained control of invasives, begin a 25 year program of systematically removing small clusters of eucalyptus trees, then immediately planting the removal sites with oak seedlings in a manner that accomplishes full stand conversion in 25 years (i.e., divide the project area into 25 subsections, then systematically remove invasive trees and plant native trees). Oak planting should seek to create a shaded fuel break‐ i.e. tree spacing should be about 10‐12 ft on center so that when mature, the oak woodland provides a continuously shaded area.

• Plant understory in oak woodlands. When the majority of mature eucalyptus trees have been removed and oaks are establishing (about Year 20), plant oak woodland understory species to help ensure natural biodiversity is restored. The understory species should only include short‐stature grasses and flowering plants to prevent development of fuel ladders.

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5.3 Habitat Restoration

Most of the lands within CSA 14 support native plant communities that require little or no active habitat restoration. In particular, large portions of Zones 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7 (especially areas away from trails and public roadways and other developed areas) are relatively undisturbed, with the exception of some invasive plant infestations.

The remainder of the lands, in particular Zones 1, 2, and 4, are heavily used for recreation, are small areas surrounded on multiple sides by developed areas (therefore are susceptible to ‘edge effects” such as introduction of garden escapee plants), or were disturbed in the past. These zones should be further assessed for habitat restoration potential, mostly invasive plant control, possibly with some minor planting of native species (where invasive plant infestations have replaced natives to the point where the plant community is no longer able to function naturally). Refer to Section 4.2 above for a description of current, planned, and recommended habitat restoration projects.

Refer to Table 5.3 for an overview of best management practices intended to maximize effectiveness of active habitat restoration actions. In addition, HVLT should follow the practices related to working in invasive plant infested areas as described in Section 5.6.

Table 5.3 Best Management Practices Related to Habitat Restoration

Best Management Practices Related to Habitat Restoration Use the following actions as a guideline for conducting habitat restoration on BMP‐Habitat HVLT lands: Restoration‐1  Identify and mark the edges of the area to be restored.  Assess the current condition of the restoration area: most lands have been Habitat treated in the past for fuel reduction; therefore most are in varying stages of Restoration at management. Selected Sites  Determine most appropriate restoration actions for each individual restoration site, then implement one or more of the following: • Control invasives. Conduct repeated invasive plant treatments (usually broom and eucalyptus control) to achieve sustained control prior to site planting. Accomplishing sustained control will require switching to a combination of mechanical and chemical control methods.

• Protect sensitive biological resources in and near the restoration site. Identify any sensitive biological resources (e.g., creeks, seeps, or other wetlands, riparian areas, woodrat nests, Oakland star tulip populations, northern spotted owl nest sites) in or near planned restoration areas prior to the start of work. Fully avoid and protect such areas during habitat restoration work (i.e. fence and post as “keep out”) or help obtain and comply with necessary permits and regulatory requirements where full avoidance is not possible.

• Develop a restoration site plan that identifies planting sites, planting densities, and planting materials. Use locally collected plant materials for restoration projects wherever possible. Plant materials should be collected onsite, or within the same

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Best Management Practices Related to Habitat Restoration watershed as the restoration project. Collect and propagate seeds and cuttings to prepare sufficient planting materials, based on the type and number of plants needed for the restoration project. Some species such as oaks can be directly planted (e.g., plant oak acorns and grass seed), while other plants do best if installed as a rooted plant. Propagation can be done onsite by HVLT staff, or offsite by a commercial nursery. No use of commercial grassland mixtures for erosion control should be used unless approved in advance by Marin County. • Install plantings onsite. Plant rooted materials based on spacing and distribution specifications in the restoration plan. Dig a hole 2X as deep and 2X as wide as the planting material, backfill around rootball, tamp down soil to create a watering basin around the base of the plant, then “water in” immediately after installation.

5.4 Road and Trail Management

An inventory and assessment of the roads and trails on lands within CSA 14 was conducted, the roads and trails were mapped, and the physical condition of each road and trail was characterized in a database. This data and information will be useful in selecting, planning, designing, and implementing road and trail management projects. BMPs identified below in Table 5.4, should be used when undertaking these projects.

Table 5.4 Best Management Practices Related to Road and Trail Management

Best Management Practices Related to Road and Trail Management BMP‐Road/Trail Use the following as a guideline for maintaining ingress/egress emergency and Management‐1 maintenance vehicle access on roads:

Maintain  Work with Marin County and fire agencies to identify roads necessary for Ingress/Egress emergency access. Vehicle Access  Assess the current condition of these roads. on Roads  Determine most appropriate management actions for each individual road, and implement one or more of the following: • Maintain Existing Condition. For roads that meet basic design standards for ingress/egress access, continue to monitor their condition on a routine basis (every 5 years). Conduct basic maintenance such as pothole or wet trail repairs, maintaining signs and gates, and brushing road edges.

• Upgrade/Repair to Meet Standards. For roads that do not meet basic design standards, upgrade or repair the roads and continue to monitor their condition on a routine basis (every 5 years). In most instances, upgrading will require re‐grading the roadbed/tread to meet width requirements, installing turnarounds and/or adding entrance/exits.

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Best Management Practices Related to Road and Trail Management BMP‐Road/Trail Use the following as a guideline for maintaining recreational uses of roads and Management‐2 trails:

Maintain  Using the inventory and assessment, identify problematic road and trail Recreational sections (e.g. occurring on steep slopes, erosional issues, wet sections, creek Uses of Existing crossings) to determine what maintenance issues need to be addressed. Roads and Trails

BMP‐Road/Trail  Establish road and trail management objectives by Zone. Management‐3 • Zones 1, 2, and 3 are heavily used by local residents for daily recreation (including dog walking). Management in these areas Establish should focus on repairing erosional areas/wet trail areas, brushing Management trail edges to maintain width, and maintaining signs at entrances Objectives by and trailheads. Zone • Zone 4 is heavily used by groups. Management in this area should Maintain emphasize maintenance of site uses and protection of adjacent Existing site natural resources from human uses (e.g. trespass, erosion). Roads/Trails • Zones 5, 6 and 7 are less frequently used for daily recreation and Repair, Improve, are also used for passage/entrance to nearby GGNRA lands. Trail or maintenance actions in Zones 6 and 7 should focus on Decommission maintaining passage to GGNRA lands and reducing the overall Roads/Trails number of trails in order to concentrate recreational uses in a manner that results in minimal disruption/fragmentation of natural resources. This work should be done in close collaboration with GGNRA to avoid adverse impact to that agency’s road and trail management goals and policies.

 Once the management objectives are established for each Zone, implement one or more of the following: • Maintain Condition. As is the current practice, maintain condition of roads and trails through a combination of spot repair of trouble areas such as erosional damage at creek crossings, maintaining trail width (brushing, spot‐repair).

• Repair, Improve, Reroute, or Decommission. For roads and trails that do not meet intended uses, determine which course of action is appropriate (i.e. repair the section; upgrade the tread, trail width, or size/use of the trail; reroute or decommission the section or the entire length of road or trail. This activity should be undertaken as staffing and funding allow.

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5.5 Working in Sensitive Habitats

The following practices (Table 5.5) were developed to reduce potential to impact sensitive species and their habitats that could occur as a result of public use and/or land management actions.

Table 5.5 Best Management Practices Related to Working in Sensitive Habitats

Best Management Practices Related to Working in Sensitive Habitats BMP‐ Sensitive At Present, lands within CSA 14 support the Northern spotted owl (Zone 7), a Species‐1 special status species.  Activities must be timed so as not to disturb nesting or rearing. Fire fuel Avoid and reduction work (Zone 7) near known nest sites should be delayed until after Protect Northern August 15th or should occur prior to March 15th. Removal or damage to trees Spotted Owl near the historic nest site(s) should be avoided.

BMP‐ Sensitive At Present, lands within CSA 14 support Oakland star tulip (Zone 6), a locally rare Species‐2 species. The Oakland star tulip is an annual bulb.  Fire fuel reduction work near known populations should occur only when the Avoid Rare above‐ground parts of the plant have died off (late summer‐ winter). Avoid Plants near ground disturbance in known populations where possible (i.e. avoid Vegetation damaging the ground beneath the bulbs). Management Projects BMP‐Sensitive  Time tree removal and brush trimming work to occur after bird nesting Species‐3 season (i.e. after August 15th and before March 1st) wherever possible.

Implement  If work must occur during bird nesting season (March 1‐August 15th), conduct Seasonal a pre‐project survey for nesting birds and proceed with work only if birds are Restrictions not nesting within the project area. If bird nests are found, delay work until During Bird after August 15th. Nesting Season

5.6 Working in Areas Infested with Invasive Plants

The following practices (Tables 5.6a and 5.6b) were developed to comply with the County’s IPM Ordinance, and to maximize effectiveness of invasive plant control activities.

Table 5.6a Best Management Practices Related to Control of Invasive Plant Species

Best Management Practices Related to Control of Invasive Plant Species BMP‐ Invasive All herbicide use will be administered under Marin County’s IPM Ordinance. Plant‐1 Use of herbicide must be approved by the County’s Pest Control Advisor, and work will only be conducted under the supervision of an individual holding a Comply with State issued Pest Control Applicator’s certificate. All herbicide use for County IPM vegetation management actions will be posted and reported consistent with Ordinance State law, and the IPM Ordinance.

Table 5.6b Recommended Treatment Options for Target Invasive Plants

Scientific Name (Common Recommended Treatments Options for Target Invasive Plants Name) Invasive Trees

Acacia spp. (acacia, black Hand and Mechanical Control Methods. Pulling seedlings or saplings by hand wattle, blackwood or with weed wrench. Must remove entire plant, especially roots. Effective on acacia) small plants (typically less than 1” in diameter) but not feasible for mature

plants. Prunus cerasifera (Ornamental Chemical Control Methods. Cut‐stump application of herbicide. plum)

Hand and Mechanical Control Methods. Pulling seedlings or saplings by hand or with weed wrench. Must remove entire sapling. Effective on small saplings Eucalyptus (typically less than 1” in diameter) but not feasible for mature plants. Cut trees globulus and use stump grinder to grind cut stump to a depth of 1.5 – 3 ft below soil (Tasmanian blue surface. gum) Chemical Control Methods. Cut‐stump application of herbicide via hack‐and‐ squirt. Low‐volume application of herbicide applied via thinline, or basal bark. Pinus radiata (Monterey pine)

Cupressus macrocarpa (Monterey Hand and Mechanical Control Methods. Flush cut trees to ground level cypress)

Pseudotsuga menziesii (Douglas fir)

Scientific Name Recommended Treatments Options for Target Invasive Plants (Common Name) Invasive Small Trees And Shrubs Hand and Mechanical Control Methods • Seedlings or very small saplings can be effectively removed by hand pulling or with weed wrench. • Pulling individual mature plants by hand or with weed wrench. Method is feasible only for small or sparse infestations, typically less than 1⁄2 acre due to cost.

Chemical Control Methods Cotoneaster sp. • Cut‐stump treatment with herbicide. (cotoneaster) • Basal bark and cut‐stump application of herbicide. • Low‐volume basal application of herbicide via thinline treatment or low‐ Cytisus scoparius volume basal bark application. (Scotch broom) • Foliar application of herbicide (for seedling flushes and follow‐up treatments), or cut‐stump application (for mature plants, small infestations, Genista and follow‐up treatments). monspessulana (French broom) Other Treatment Methods  Machine removal using large machinery (excavator) with various attachments (masticator, combo‐bucket, roto‐excavator or brush‐hog) to cut and pull mature vegetation, followed by repeated hand pulling for small areas, or b) spot‐application of herbicide.  Fall cutting, followed by propane flaming or controlled burning in spring when seedlings are very small.  Propane flaming (most effective on carpets of seedlings, ineffective on larger plants). Treatment must be conducted during the rainy season (preferably while raining) to reduce risk. Treatment must be exceedingly thorough to ensure efficacy. Echium candicans Hand and Mechanical Control Methods (Pride of Madeira) • Individual adult plants are effectively removed by cutting or breaking branches and then digging root ball with shovel or Pulaski. Green waste Carprobrotus must be disposed of properly since cut plants are capable of continued seed edulis (Iceplant, production. Hottentot fig) Chemical Control Methods • Foliar application of herbicide is reportedly effective in controlling adults. • Cut‐stump treatment may be effective, more research is needed.

Scientific Name Recommended Treatments Options for Target Invasive Plants (Common Name) Vines And Cane‐Producing Shrubs

Hand and Mechanical Control Methods

• Manual removal requires clearing away native and invasive plant material to gain visual and physical access to locations with stems emerging from the ground. Roots and stems must be teased out of the ground using a pointed tool to loosen the soil. Removed vines and canes should be piled under firmly secured plastic tarps to eliminate all light and facilitate Delairea odorata decomposition of material. Frequent follow up with manual or chemical (Cape ivy, German methods is critical. ivy)

Chemical Control Methods Hedera helix (English ivy)  Foliar application of herbicide. Post‐flowering application reportedly results

in high mortality for uncut cape ivy. Mortality is reportedly lowered by pre‐ Vinca major treatment cutting of vines. Foliar application of herbicide is reportedly (Periwinkle) highly effective at controlling species in riparian systems.

Other Treatment Methods

• Use of water high‐pressure washer (hydro‐mechanical obliteration) reduces biomass of Cape ivy, but has limited application, with greatest efficacy in riparian areas. Hand and Mechanical Control Methods

• Plants can be effectively removed by cutting stem with loppers, brush cutters, or McLeods and then digging out root balls. Effectiveness of this approach depends on removing woody root fragments. Effective for small Rubus armeniacus infestations. (Himalayan blackberry) Chemical Control Methods

• Low concentration foliar, low‐volume foliar, or cut‐stump application of herbicide.

Scientific Name (Common Recommended Treatments Options for Target Invasive Plants Name) Thistles

Hand and Mechanical Control Methods  Small or sparse infestations may be effectively managed by hand pulling or chopping the entire plant after bolting but before flowering. The most Italian thistle* effective chopping method involves severing the root 4‐6 inches below (Carduus ground with the blade of a shovel or hoe then pulling the severed plant out pycnocephalus) of the ground without disturbing the soil.  With manual, mechanical, or cultural techniques, plants should be removed Bull thistle* before 1% of flowers have opened. All stalks with flowers should be bagged (Cirsium vulgare) and removed from site, as flowers can develop into seed after being cut.  Mowing is most effective when conducted at a stage where 2 to 5 percent of the seed heads are flowering. Other thistles* Chemical Control Methods • Foliar application of herbicide before flowering of adult plants. • Foliar application of herbicide on adult plants before bolting.

Scientific Name Recommended Treatments Options for Target Invasive Plants (Common Name)

Perennial Grasses

Hand and Mechanical Control Methods

 Hand tools (shovels, Pulaskis) can be used to cut up large plants and split, dig, Cortaderia and remove root ball. This is very labor intensive and results in soil disturbance. jubata All root fragments must be removed to be effective as this plant can sprout (jubata grass) from tiny root fragments left in soil.

Cortaderia Chemical Control Methods selloana  Consider cutting, allowing regrowth to four ft, and then applying herbicide to (pampas fresh growth to promote translocation of herbicide from actively growing tissue grass) to root system (increases success of treatment). Foliar application of herbicide is effective at controlling adult plants. Rope wick application of herbicide is effective at controlling adult plants.

Hand and Mechanical Control Methods

• Removing individual adult plants by digging root ball with shovel or Pulaski is reported moderately effective. Small plants may be removed with hand pick or hoe. Soil disturbance may promote germination of seeds so requires follow‐up Arundo donax treatment. (Giant reed) Chemical Control Methods • Foliar application of herbicide in late spring/early summer is effective. Often, Phalaris best control is to cut vegetation to ground level, allow new growth to reach 6 aquatica inches, then apply herbicide to new growth (speeds translocation of herbicides (Harding into root system). grass) Other Treatment Methods • Use of water high‐pressure washer (hydro‐mechanical obliteration) reduces biomass but has limited application, with greatest efficacy in riparian areas.

Scientific Name (Common Recommended Treatments Options for Target Invasive Plants Name) Other Invasive Species

Euphorbia X Ornamental (Euphorbia) Hand and Mechanical Control Methods  Hand pulling can effectively remove individual plants but is not effective for eliminating large infestations. Oils from Euphorbia are toxic and may cause Vinca major headaches and itchiness, so care should be employed when handling. (Periwinkle)

Crocosmia x Chemical Control Methods crocosmiiflora  Effective control of adults is reported using foliar application of herbicide (Tiger’s tears, during early and late summer, to completely control late‐bolting plants. montbretia)

Pittisporum sp. Hand and Mechanical Control Methods (Pittisporum)  Effective elimination of small or sparse infestations can be accomplished by removing plants (including 3‐6 inches of crown and root) using shovels, Echium candicans Pulaskis, and other tools. (Pride of Madeira) Chemical Control Methods

 Foliar application of herbicide is reportedly effective.

5.7 Working in Woodlands Infested with Sudden Oak Death

The following practices (Table 5.7) were developed to comply with current practices to control spread of SOD, and to reduce potential for spread of this forest disease. While there is at present no known cure for SOD, implementing the following practices may help reduce the spread of this disease.

Table 5.7 Best Management Practices Related to Control of Sudden Oak Death (SOD)

Best Management Practices Related to Control of Sudden Oak Death (SOD) BMP‐SOD‐1 Ensure that all vegetation management actions conform to federal and state regulations governing interstate and intrastate restrictions adopted to prevent the artificial spread Conform with of Sudden Oak Death (Phytophthora ramorum). Current regulations do not permit the Federal and movement of specific plant species and associated material outside of the regulated State quarantine area that includes Marin, San Francisco, and San Mateo Counties. Regulations Governing  As feasible, SOD‐infected trees should be felled and left in place. Sudden Oak  Wherever possible, do not work within 200 ft of infected trees. Death,  Locate staging, parking, and work areas away from infected trees. Implement  Inspect all equipment, vehicles, and individuals upon leaving project areas for Procedures to soil, leaves, twigs, and branches. Contain the  Clean equipment, clothing, and vehicles with weak bleach solution before Spread of SOD moving to other sites to help prevent the spread of SOD.

6.0 SELECTION OF PRIORITY PROJECTS ON AN ANNUAL BASIS

6.1 Project Prioritization

The following process will assist HVLT in selection of land management projects in a manner that allows for the balancing of staff and funding fluctuations over time.

6.1.2 Annual Work Plan Development

The following system was developed to help balance limited financial resources, a growing list of resource management needs, and the interests of the community.

Step 1. Select a facilitator for the meetings.

Step 2. Conduct an annual planning session. Using HVLT’s existing management structure (i.e. individual Board Members assigned to individual Zones), gather to discuss possible projects or actions. Include Marin County Parks staff in this meeting.

Step 3. Numerically rank projects. The data sheet below provides a numerical ranking system. Possible project ranking criteria are presented in Table 6.2.1; however, the HVLT may modify them or weight them based on relative importance. As an example, fire fuel reduction projects might be given a multiplier of “2”. The sum total score for that criterion will then be multiplied by “2”. Therefore, the overall score of projects that include fire fuel reduction would increase.

Possible types of ranking criteria include:

. projects that reduce overall maintenance costs . projects that reduce fuel load or improve forest health . projects that increase fire and visitor safety (e.g., reduce fire risk, improve trail conditions) . projects that restore native habitats and increase wildlife and wetland habitat values . projects that control target invasive plant species and provide sustainable restoration opportunities . projects that offer opportunities for increased community involvement . projects that improve the visitor experience (e.g., creating viewsheds, interpretive opportunities) . projects that maintain the character of the area

Step 4. Discuss annual program staffing, budgeting, and work objectives. The project boundaries, objectives, costs, possible partners, and timing of each of the various proposed projects should be considered, as well as new projects and modified projects. As a result of this planning session, the participants should come to agreement on most of the major issues and reach agreement on most, but possibly not all, of the priorities. Include Parks staff in this meeting.

Step 5. Assess capacity, capabilities, and planning timeframe, and adjust projects accordingly. The projects selected as a result of this meeting will be screened to ascertain that

they can be accomplished within the specified timeframe, and that HVLT has sufficient funding, staffing, and other capacities to successfully implement the projects. As a result of this assessment, the list of projects under consideration will be reduced to those that are considered reasonable to implement within the planning timeframe. Include Parks staff in this meeting.

Step 6. Gather any remaining technical data necessary to finalize decisions. As the proposed project list is further refined, technical questions will surface that require additional data collection and assessment efforts. Additional information gathering should be conducted to help develop a greater understanding about the feasibility and appropriateness of the proposed projects.

Step 7. Prepare list of annual project priorities. Based on the initial list of projects, the capabilities and timeframe assessment, and the additional technical data, a list of prioritized projects, for the coming fiscal year will be developed and circulated to Parks staff for review and comment. Parks staff might request a site visit to view the projects in the field, and then provide feedback to HVLT in a timely manner.

Step 8. Finalize list of projects, and create an annual work plan. HVLT should submit to Parks a list of projects to be considered for the coming fiscal year. These projects should be considered by the group to be strategically important, technically sound, feasible to undertake, and possible to coordinate within the planned project timeframe. Once approved, the list will be incorporated into HVLT’s annual work plan.

Table 6.1.2 Project Ranking System

Project Ranking System

Ranking Criteria TOTAL (0,1,2,3, N/A)

Sensitive Biological Resources

a. Protects or enhances special status and/or locally rare species. b. Protects or enhances sensitive vegetation types (creeks and other wetlands, riparian woodland, redwood forest, native perennial grassland), unique microclimates, or geologic features (e.g., rock outcrops). c. Protects or enhances wetlands or riparian areas.

Sum

Threats To Natural Resources a. Controls and/or removes targeted invasive plants. b. Controls erosion and/or restores natural hydrology/drainage. c. Reduces spread of plant pathogens (SOD). d. Reduces risk of vegetation type conversion. e. Improves forest health. Sum

Fire Fuel Reduction a. Increases public safety and/or reduces risk of fire damage to adjacent (offsite) buildings and structures. b. Reduces fuel loads and related risk of wildfires on HVLT lands. c. Maintains existing fuel management areas in a manner that reduces invasive plants and establishes a 5‐year maintenance treatment cycle. d. Reduces overall maintenance costs. Sum Public Engagement and Support a. Improves public recreational and/or interpretive opportunities. b. Provides for increased volunteer and/or stewardship opportunities. c. Has significant public interest and support. d. Increases public understanding and support for MCOSD preserves. Sum Potential for Funding a. Funding available (in part) through other programs and/or projects. b. Current funding potential. c. Potential for future funding advantage (grants, partnerships etc.). Sum Potential for Implementation Success, Project Feasibility a. Project can be accomplished within projected timeline, including permitting and CEQA

(project readiness). b. High level of outcome for resources expended. c. Integrates with existing programs. Sum

Project Ranking System

Ranking Criteria TOTAL (0,1,2,3, N/A)

Consistency with Programs and Staff Capacity a. Consistent with existing HVLT and Parks program goals and objectives b. Within available HVLT staff capacity c. Reduces overall maintenance costs d. Compatible with internal organizational priorities Sum

TOTAL RANKING FOR PROPOSED PROJECT

Projects will be ranked within each category using the following criteria:

3 This project meets all the applicable criteria for this category. 2 This project meets most of the applicable criteria for this category. 1 This project meets a few of the applicable criteria for this category. 0 This project does not meet any of the criteria for this category. N/A This project does not have any relevance to this criteria category (e.g., a polygon that includes invasive plant removal only would receive an n/a for the trails criteria).

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6.2 Suggested List of Year One Projects

Using the procedures described above under Section 6.1, the following projects (Table 6.2) were identified as having high priority for implementation in year one. This list should be considered preliminary, subject to review and approval by HVLT and Marin County prior to implementation.

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Table 6.2 Suggested List of Year One Projects Rank Zone(s) Description

Implement Year 1 of LMP: Year 1: Zone 7 (Laverne Ave to Chapman Rd to GGNRA boundary) Remove fuel ladders/treat broom in the Zone 7 treatment area. (1) Cut brush to ground level using brushcutters, weedeaters, and/or mowers. (2) Cut and spot treat broom, acacia, and eucalyptus species Zone 7 immediately after cutting or mowing. (3) Limb up trees to a height of 10 ft. (4) Collect and chip 1 cut materials or collect and stack in low tight windrows onsite (no more than 3 ft. high, 4 ft wide and 4 ft. long, each pile separated by at least 10 ft). For invasive plants, store green waste within infested areas to prevent spread to other areas. (5) Following initial treatment, initiate annual inspection and mowing/hand pulling treatments to keep area functional for fire management purposes. Trail Assessment/Trail Maintenance and Brushing (1) Meet with GGNRA to confirm location of legal and otherwise recognized roads and trails on GGNRA lands, that cross onto lands within 2 CSA 14, and determine how best to address issues related to illegal, social, or otherwise Al unrecognized trails on lands within CSA 14 that lead to GGNRA lands. (2) Collaborate with GGNRA on maintenance of legal and otherwise recognized cross‐jurisdictional roads and trails. (Annually) 3Consider establishing a volunteer weed/trail program to assist HVLT with trail assessment. (4 Conduct annual trail assessments. (5) Identify maintenance areas, assess and prioritize using established HVLT procedures (6) Conduct annual mowing/brushing and maintenance of legal and otherwise recognized trails and trail segments.

Early Detection/ Rapid Response Invasive Plant Watch (1) Finalize /update annual list of All priority invasive plants in coordination with County and CalIPC. (2) Patrol selected zones as part 3 of a 3‐year cycle. (3) If new weeds found, immediately implement control and map location. (4) (On rotational 5 Update GIS as feasible. (5) Continue to monitor treated incipient infestations until either full year cycle) control or eradication achieved. (6) Consider establishing a volunteer weed/trail patrol to accomplish this at reduced cost.

Zones 1 and 2 Sparse invasive Plant Control in Native Perennial Grasslands Prioritize invasive (broom) removal in areas mapped as native perennial grassland within Zones 1 and 2. These 4 areas are considered to have some of the highest resource values for native plant and wildlife species; and actions to prevent establishment of invasives are considered important to maintaining these resource values over time. Zones 1 and 2 (1) Conduct invasive plant control “sweeps” of the perennial grasslands for 1‐3 years starting with hand‐pulling individual plants and sparse occurrences, in mostly cleared areas (i.e. clear broom in each zone back to the moderate to dense occurrences, until control is achieved. (2) Collect and chip cut materials or collect and stack in low tight windrows onsite (no more than 3 ft. high, 4 ft wide and 4 ft. long, each pile separated by at least 10 ft). For invasive plants, store green waste within infested areas to prevent spread to other areas. Road/(1) Meet with GGNRA to confirm location of legal and otherwise recognized roads and trails on GGNRA lands, that cross onto lands within CSA 14, and determine how best to address 5 issues related to illegal, social, or otherwise unrecognized trails on lands within CSA 14 that Zones 6 and 7 lead to GGNRA lands. (2) Collaborate with GGNRA on maintenance of legal and otherwise recognized cross‐jurisdictional roads and trails. (3) Collaborate trail Projects with GGNRA to maintain ingress/egress access for emergency vehicles on fire roads that link CSA 14 lands to GGNRA lands. Most likely will require brushing and possibly some light re‐grading to maintain tread width over time. Volunteer Program Establish/re‐establish a Volunteer Program to assist HVLT with monitoring 6 and removal (i.e., hand pulling) of invasive plants, monitoring and restoration of native plants and habitats, trail maintenance, and monitoring and remediation of non‐conforming visitor All Zones uses.

Partner with Parks Volunteer Coordinator and with GGNRA staff to increase efficiency, effectiveness, and capacity. Trail Projects Assess trail usage/linkages. Determine which social trails and redundant, small, spur, and under‐utilized and unsustainable trails should be decommissioned using GIS trail 7 Zones 6 and 7 assessment data. Begin decommissioning process by no longer conducting active maintenance. As needed, actively decommission trails by placing brush over trail tread, installing restoration signage, and/or by regarding/resurfacing trails (hand work or light machine (e.g., bobcat, Sweeco).

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7.0 REFERENCES Blake, M.C., R.W. Graymer, and D.L. Jones. 2000. Geologic Map and Map Database of Parts of Marin, San Francisco, Alameda, Contra Costa and Sonoma Counties, California. U.S. Geological Survey, U.S. Department of the Interior. Available online at http://pubs.usgs.gov/mf/2000/2337/mf2337f.pdf CalBiota. A California Species Compendium. Version 2.1. Electronic database of the biota of California. Created by Michael Wood, Walnut Creek. California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG). 2007. List of California Vegetation Alliances. Vegetation Classification and Mapping Program, Biogeographic Data Branch. October 22. Available online at http://www.dfg.ca.gov/biogeodata/vegcamp/pdfs/naturalcommunitieslist_oct07.pdf. California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG). 2009. Protocols for Surveying and Evaluating Impacts to Special Status Native Plant Populations and Natural Communities. November 24. Available online at http://www.dfg.ca.gov/biogeodata/cnddb/pdfs/Protocols_for_Surveying_and_Evaluating _Impacts.pdf. California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG). 2010. Natural Communities List Arranged Alphabetically by Life Form. Vegetation Classification and Mapping Program, Biogeographic Data Branch. September. Available online at http://www.dfg.ca.gov/biogeodata/vegcamp/pdfs/natcomlist.pdf. California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFG). 2013a. Special Vascular Plants, Bryophytes, and Lichens List. Biannual publication, Mimeo. January. Available online at http://www.dfg.ca.gov/biogeodata/cnddb/pdfs/SPPlants.pdf. _____. 2013b. State and Federally Listed Endangered, Threatened, and Rare Plants of California. Habitat Conservation Division, California Natural Diversity Data Base. January. Available online at http://www.dfg.ca.gov/biogeodata/cnddb/pdfs/TEPlants.pdf

California Native Plant Society (CNPS). 2001. Botanical Survey Guidelines. Revised June 2. Available on line at http://www.cnps.org/cnps/rareplants/pdf/cnps_survey_guidelines.pdf. _____. 2012. Inventory of Rare and Endangered Plants. Online search of the San Rafael, San Geronimo, Novato, San Quentin, San Francisco North, Petaluma Point, Bolinas, and Point Bonita USGS 7.5’ Quadrangles. California Native Plant Society. Sacramento, CA. Online edition, v8-01a. Accessed on February 23 at http://www.cnps.org/inventory. California Natural Diversity Data Base (CNDDB). 2013. Data Base Print-out for the San Rafael, San Geronimo, Novato, San Quentin, San Francisco North, Petaluma Point, Bolinas, and Point Bonita USGS 7.5’ Quadrangles. RareFind 3.1.0. California Department of Fish and Game, Habitat Conservation Division. Sacramento, California. Information dated February 1. California Oak Foundation. 2007. California Oak Report. June. Available on line at http://www.californiaoaks.org/html/oak_report_06-07.html Cowardin, L.M., V. Carter, F.C. Golet, and E.T. LaRoe. 1979. Classification of Wetlands and Deepwater Habitats of the United States. U.S. Department of the Interior, Fish and Wildlife Service, Washington, D.C. 131 pp. Available online at http://www.npwrc.usgs.gov/resource/wetlands/classwet/index.htm

FINAL DRAFT

Holland, R. 1986. Preliminary Descriptions of the Terrestrial Natural Communities of California. California Department of Fish and Game, The Resources Agency. 156 pp. Available on line at http://www.cal-ipc.org/ip/inventory/pdf/HollandReport.pdf. Holland, V.L. and D.J. Keil. 1990. California Vegetation. Calif. Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo. 4th edition. 318 pp. Howell, J.T., F. Almeda, W. Follette, and C. Best. 2007. Marin Flora. Revised illustrated edition. California Academy of Sciences and California Native Plant Society (Marin Chapter). 510 pp. Marcot, B. G. (ed). 1979. California Wildlife Habitat Relationships Program: North Coast - Cascades Zone, Introduction Vol. I. U.S. Dep. Agric., For. Serv., Six Rivers National. Forest, Eureka, Calif. Sawyer, J.O., T. Keeler-Wolf, and J.M. Evans. 2009. A Manual of California Vegetation (2nd edition). California Native Plant Society, Sacramento. 1300 pp. Available on line at http://www.cnps.org/cnps/vegetation/manual_2ed.php. United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 2000. Guidelines for Conducting and Reporting Botanical Inventories for Federally Listed, Proposed and Candidate Plants. January. Available online at http://www.fws.gov/ventura/speciesinfo/protocols_guidelines/docs/botanicalinventories.p df _____. 2011. Federal Endangered and Threatened Species that Occur in or may be Affected by Projects in the San Rafael, San Geronimo, Novato, San Quentin, San Francisco North, Petaluma Point, Bolinas, and Point Bonita USGS 7.5’ Quadrangles. Threatened and Endangered Species System (TESS) printout. Database updated September 18. Accessed February 23, 2012 at http://www.fws.gov/sacramento/ES_Species/Lists/es_species_lists- overview.htm.

Wood Biological 2012. Biological Assessment, Fire Fuel Reduction and Vegetation Management Projects, Homestead Valley Land Trust, Marin County, California. Unpublished technical report prepared for Homestead Valley Land Trust, Mill Valley, CA. 52 pp plus Appendices.

Appendix A. Floristic Analysis of the Lands within CSA 14 (aka Homestead Valley)

FLORISTIC ANALYSIS OF THE LANDS WITHIN CSA 14 (AKA HOMESTEAD VALLEY) MARIN COUNTY, CALIFORNIA

June 27, 2013

Prepared for: May & Associates, Inc 182 Seal Rock Drive San Francisco, CA 94121 (415) 391‐1000

Prepared by: Wood Biological Consulting, Inc. 65 Alta Hill Way Walnut Creek, CA 94595 (925) 899‐1282 mike@wood‐biological.com www.wood‐biological.com

The information provided in this document is intended solely for the use and benefit of Marin County Parks and the Homestead Valley Land Trust.

No other person or entity shall be entitled to rely on the services, opinions, recommendations, plans or specifications provided herein, without the express written consent of Wood Biological Consulting, Inc.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SECTION PAGE

SUMMARY II 1.0 INTRODUCTION 1 2.0 METHODS AND LIMITATIONS 1 3.0 EXISTING CONDITIONS 3 3.1 SETTING 3 3.2 CHARACTERIZATION OF THE VEGETATION 4 4.0 RESULTS 13 4.1 SPECIAL‐STATUS NATURAL COMMUNITIES 13 4.2 SPECIAL‐STATUS PLANT SPECIES 14 5.0 CONCLUSIONS 19 6.0 LITERATURE CITED 20

LIST OF FIGURES FIGURE PAGE

Figure 1. Location of Study Area 2 Figure 2. Plant Communities Occurring in the Study Area 5 Figure 3. Oakland Star‐Tulip Populations in Zone 6 17

LIST OF APPENDICES

A Potentially Occurring Special‐Status Plant Species B Explanation of Rarity Status Codes C Inventory of Plant Species Detected in the Study Area D Database Printouts

Wood Biological Consulting, Inc. – Floristic Analysis, Homestead Valley Land Trust i SUMMARY

This report presents the results of a focused, two‐season floristic study of Marin County owned lands managed by the Homestead Valley Land Trust. The study area is located in Homestead Valley, an unincorporated area of approximately 100 homes situated on the southeastern slopes of Mount Tamalpais, southern Marin County. The study area comprises seven zones covering approximately 34 ha (85 ac) of steep and rugged land in a semi‐rural setting, representing a wildland/urban interface.

The study area includes scattered undeveloped parcels situated on steep south‐ and north‐facing slopes and the valley floor of Homestead Valley. Reed Creek, a tributary to Arroyo Corte Madera del Presidio, runs through the middle of the valley. One of the subject parcels includes Stolte Grove, a small park supporting a grove of redwoods. Lands adjacent to the HVLT study area support undeveloped properties, single and multi‐family residences, a community center, and school.

A total of 76 special‐status plant species have been recorded from the project region. No federally or State‐listed plant species were detected within the study area and none is expected to occur. However, one special‐status species, Oakland star‐tulip (Calochortus umbellatus; CNPS List 4.2) was detected. Within the study area, 22 populations of Oakland star‐tulip were detected scattered over the western half of Zone 6 (Figure 3). Population sizes ranged from six to over 200 individuals, with a total estimated number of at least 765 plants growing on site.

Although not detected, two additional special‐status species are suspected as potentially occurring within the study area. These include small ground‐cone (Kopsiopsis hookeri, CNPS List 2B.3) and Tamalpais oak (Quercus parvula var. tamalpaisensis, CNPS List 1B.2). However, there is no potential for the occurrence of these species in areas requiring treatment for fire fuel reduction such as non‐native woodlands.

Wood Biological Consulting, Inc. – Floristic Analysis, Homestead Valley Land Trust ii Special‐status plant associations occurring within the HVLT lands include redwood forest (G3/S3) and California bay forest (G4/S3). In addition, small stands of Central Coast riparian scrub are also present along water courses and near springs. Coast live oak woodland overlapping the northern stream channel may be regulated under State or local laws or ordinances. Impacts to these habitats and surface features would be considered significant under CEQA guidelines and may fall under the jurisdiction of federal, state and local agencies. Prior to implementing any activities that may impact riparian habitat or the banks or beds of any creek or surface tributary, a wetland delineation and jurisdictional determination should be performed. Permits are required for unavoidable impacts to these regulated biological resources falling under the jurisdiction of the USACE, CDFW and the RWQCB.

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1.0 INTRODUCTION

This report presents the results of a focused, two‐season floristic study of Marin County owned lands managed by the Homestead Valley Land Trust (HVLT) located in southern Marin County, California (Figure 1). The study area comprises seven zones covering approximately 34 ha (85 ac) of rugged land in a semi‐rural setting, representing a wildland/urban interface, and is adjacent to federally owned open space. The objective of this study was to document the vascular plant species occurring in the study area and to determine the presence or absence of special‐status plant species known or suspected to occur in the project region.

2.0 METHODS AND LIMITATIONS

A list of target special‐status plant species was prepared by reviewing database printouts for the Rafael, San Geronimo, Novato, San Quentin, San Francisco North, Petaluma Point, Bolinas, and Point Bonita 7.5‐minute USGS quadrangles maintained by the California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB 2013), the California Native Plant Society (CNPS 2012) and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS 2011).

Focused floristic surveys were conducted by botanists Michael Wood and Christopher Thayer on April 11‐12 and repeated on June 11‐12, 2013. A previous reconnaissance‐ level survey of the study area was performed by Mr. Wood on February 28, 2012 during preparation of a biological assessment. The timing of the current surveys was intended to correspond to the flowering times of those species deemed most likely to occur in the study area, as determined in a biological assessment prepared by Wood Biological Consulting (2012). Each survey was conducted on foot by walking all trails and fire roads. Meandering transects were walked through all open areas (e.g., grass and brush covered habitats) as well as all areas dominated by invasive species (e.g., non‐native woodland and areas dominated by species of broom) as such sites will be subjected to the greatest level of surface disturbances.

The limits of the study area are illustrated on the vegetation map (see Figure 2, Section 3.2). All plant species observed were recorded; specimens that could not be positively identified in the field were collected and identified in the office (see Appendix C). The survey methodology followed in the course of this study was consistent with the guidelines published by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS 2000), California Department of Fish and Wildlife1 (CDFG 2009), and the California Native Plant Society (CNPS 2001).

1 Effective January 1, 2013, the CA Dept. of Fish and Game (CDFG) changed its name to CA Dept. of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW).

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Source: Google Maps

Figure 1. Project Location

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Additional information regarding special‐status plants and habitats was compiled through a review of literature published by the CDFW (CDFG 2013a, 2013b and 2010). Plant habitat affinities and local distribution information was obtained from Baldwin, et al. (2012) and Howell, et al. (2007). Nomenclature for common, widespread plants and animals conforms to Jepson Online Interchange.2 Nomenclature for special‐status plants conforms to CDFG (2013a). Plant community names conform to CDFG (2010), Sawyer, et al. (2009), and Cowardin, et al. (1979); special‐status plant communities follow CDFG (2010). Tables of special‐status target species were prepared using the CalBiota database, version 2.1.

3.0 EXISTING CONDITIONS

3.1 Setting

The study area is located in Homestead Valley, an unincorporated area of approximately 100 homes situated on the southeastern slopes of Mount Tamalpais, southern Marin County. The study area comprises seven zones covering approximately 34 ha (85 ac) of steep and rugged land in a semi‐rural setting, representing a wildland/urban interface. Homestead Valley is immediately adjacent to lands owned by the National Park Service, including the Golden Gate National Recreation Area and Muir Woods National Monument, as well as Mount Tamalpais State Park. Panoramic Highway, which branches off of California State Route 1 (also known as Shoreline Highway and the Pacific Coast Highway) south of Homestead Valley, runs along the backside (south side) of the Homestead Hill ridge that defines the southern boundary of the Valley. Homestead Valley is adjacent to the City of Mill Valley, located to the north and east of Homestead Valley.

Elevations of the study area range from approximately 44‐183 m (145‐600 ft) above mean sea level (MSL). The underlying geology is mapped as mélange, and does not include any serpentine (Blake et al., 2000). Two soil units are mapped within the study area; Tocaloma‐McMullin complex, 30‐50 percent slopes and Tocaloma‐McMullin‐ Urban land complex, 15‐30 percent slopes (USDA 1985). These units include Tocaloma loam and McMulling gravelly loam on convex side slopes; urban components consist

2 Available on line at http://ucjeps.berkeley.edu/ interchange.html

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of paved and developed lands. Soils are well‐drained and derived from weathered sandstone and shale. None of these units is classified as a hydric soil (USDA 1991).

The study area is densely vegetated with forest, scrub and grassland components, with a high proportion of native habitats dominated by indigenous plant species. Habitats present within the study area are characterized below.

3.2 Characterization of the Vegetation

The vegetation of Homestead Valley represents a complex and diverse mosaic of vegetation types from relictual redwood groves to tall, dense bay woodland, to shorter oak/bay woodland, to scrub and grasslands. Intact, relatively undisturbed native habitats occur adjacent to lands that have been highly modified by the spread or intentional planting of both native and non‐native invasive species. As summarized in the Fire Management Plan Final Environmental Impact Statement (NPS 2005, Table 3‐1, p. 189), the entire 67 ha (166 ac) Homestead Valley is comprised of coastal/scrub/chaparral (38 ha [94 ac]), grassland (9.3 ha [23 ac]), native hardwood forest (18 ha [44 ac]) and non‐native evergreen forest (2 ha [5 ac]). A map of the plant communities occurring within the study area is presented in Figure 2. A description of these plant communities is presented below.

Redwood Forest Redwood forest is a moderately dense forest dominated by coast redwood (Sequoia sempervirens) up to 120 m (400 ft) tall. This is the tallest forest type in California and one of the tallest in the world. Redwood forests (CA vegetation code 86.100.00) occur within reach of summer fog, with inland and upper altitudinal ranges possibly limited by this factor. Elevation ranges from sea level to about 975 m (3,200 ft). Redwood forests are nearly continuous in the outer Coast Ranges from extreme southwestern Oregon to Sonoma County, then becoming progressively more scattered from Marin County down to southern Monterey County. Redwood forests can be found on raised stream terraces, benches, and on slopes and ridges with all slope aspects (Sawyer, et al. 2009). This alliance tends to grow in shallow, well‐drained soils, often on steep slopes subject to erosion. Near the interior and southern margins of its range, it is confined to north exposures and canyon bottoms.

Membership in this alliance requires that coast redwood comprises over 50 percent of the relative tree canopy, or over 30 percent relative cover with other conifers such as Douglas fir (Pseudotstuga menziesii) or with a lower tier of hardwoods such as tanoak (Lithocarpus densiflorus). Following Holland (1986), redwood forest has also been classified as alluvial redwood forest and upland redwood forest (Holland Codes 82310 and 82320, respectively). Redwood forest has been assigned a rarity ranking of G3/S3, which is considered to have a high priority for inventory in the CNDDB (CDFG 2010).

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Within the study area, groves of redwood forest are found along Reed Creek in Stolte Grove (Zone 4), on the lower slopes of Zone 5, in an isolated canyon in Zone 6, and on the upper slopes of Zone 7. Stands growing at and near the valley bottom along Reed Creek include a dense understory of the non‐native English ivy (Hedera helix), along with Himalayan blackberry (Rubus armeniacus), spiderwort (Tradescantia fluminensis) and periwinkle (Vinca major). Characteristic native species detected on site include sword fern (Polystichum munitum), wood fern (Dryopteris arguta), and wake‐robin (Trillium ovatum). This plant community intergrades with California bay forest habitat.

Redwood forest conforms to the Sequoia sempervirens Forest Alliance described in Sawyer, et al. (2009) and would be classified as upland following Cowardin, et al. (1979).

Mixed Oak/Bay Woodland Mixed oak/bay woodland is characterized as a hybrid plant association comprised of elements of both California bay forest and coast live oak woodland. California bay forest is a dense evergreen forest dominated by California bay (Umbellularia californica) up to 25 m (82 ft) tall. In many cases, stands are monotypic, with California bay comprising the only tree species and with few shrubs present. California bay forests (CA vegetation code 74.100.00) occur along the coast, interior, and the foothills for the Sierra Nevada from Baja California to Oregon at elevations from sea level to about 1200 m (4,000 ft). They can be found on alluvial benches, streamsides, valley bottoms, coastal bluffs, inland ridges, steep north‐facing slopes and on rocky outcrops (Sawyer, et al. 2009). They grow in shallow to deep sand to clay‐loamy soils.

Membership in this alliance requires that California bay comprises over 30 percent of the relative tree canopy. California bay forest is similar to mixed evergreen forest (Holland Code 81100), but is clearly dominated by California bay, and not a diversity of evergreen broadleaf trees and conifers. California bay forest has been assigned a rarity ranking of G4/S3, which is considered to have a high priority for inventory in the CNDDB (CDFG 2010).

Coast live oak woodland is described below.

Stands growing along the lower slopes merge with redwood forest and similarly support a dense understory of sword fern (Polystichum munitum). Higher up on the slopes, common understory species include California hazelnut (Corylus cornuta var. californica), poison oak (Toxicodendron diversilobum), thimbleberry (Rubus parviflorus), huckleberry (Vaccinium ovatum), toyon (Heteromeles arbutifolia), slim solomon (Maianthemum stellatum), wake‐robin (Trillium ovatum), and fetid adder’s tongue (Scoliopus begeloviii), among others. This plant community intergrades with redwood forest and coast live oak woodland habitats. Within the study area, mixed oak/bay

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woodland is the dominant plant association in Zones 3, 5, 6, and 7. Small, remnant patches are also found in Zone 1.

Areas dominated by California bay conform to the Umbellularia californica Forest Alliance described in Sawyer, et al. (2009); although California bay is classified as a Facultative (FAC) wetland indicator species, this plant association would generally be classified as upland following Cowardin, et al. (1979). Areas dominated by coast live oak conform to the Quercus agrifolia Woodland Alliance as described by Sawyer, et al. (2009); it would be considered as an upland following Cowardin, et al. (1979); however, stands overlapping stream banks are frequently regarded as riparian; impacts to such stands may be regulated under state or local laws and policies.

Coast Live Oak Woodland Coast live oak woodland is typically found on north‐facing slopes and shaded ravines in the southern and inland portions of the state and on more exposed, mesic sites in the north. This community is dominated by coast live oak (Quercus agrifolia), a drought‐ resistant evergreen tree growing to 25 m (82 ft) tall. It produces both deep taproots and extensive surface roots. The species frequently occurs in pure, dense stands with a closed canopy. Coast live oak woodland is restricted primarily to the coast side of the state and is distributed from Sonoma County to Baja California. It occurs throughout the outer South Coast ranges and coastal slopes of the Transverse and Peninsular ranges, from sea level to about 1200 m (4,000 ft) in elevation. Coast live oak woodlands can be found on alluvial terraces, canyon bottoms, stream banks, slopes, and flats, growing on deep, sandy or loamy soils with high organic matter content (Sawyer, et al. 2009).

Membership in this alliance requires that coast live oak comprises over 50 percent relative cover in the tree canopy, or, if California bay is present, less than 33 percent relative cover in the tree canopy. Following Holland (1986), coast live oak woodland (Holland Code 71160) has also been classified as Central Coast live oak riparian forest (Holland Code 61220), coast live oak forest (Holland Code 81310), and southern coast live riparian oak forest (Holland Code 61310). Coast live oak woodland has been assigned a rarity ranking of G5/S4, which is not considered to have a high priority for inventory in the CNDDB (CDFG 2010).

As defined in the California Fish and Game Code, oak woodlands are “oak stands with a greater than ten percent canopy cover or that may have historically supported greater than ten percent canopy cover”.3 The California Board of Forestry and Fire Protection has regulatory authority over all of California’s forested landscapes, including the power to regulate oak woodlands at the local or state level (California Oak Foundation 2007).

3 CA Fish and Game Code §1361

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Within the study area, coast live oak woodland is present on the upper slopes of both sides of Homestead Valley. Specifically, examples can be found in Zones 1, 4, and 6. Characteristic species detected during the present survey include such native species as madrone (Arbutus menziesii), California buckeye (Aesculus californica), California bay, toyon, California hazelnut, poison oak, ocean spray (Holodiscus discolor), coffeeberry (Frangula californica), snowberry (Sympphoricarpos albus var. laevigatus), California honeysuckle (Lonicera hispidula var. vacillans), Douglas iris (Iris douglasiana), purple sanicle (Sanicula crassicaulis), sweet cicely (Osmorhiza berteroi) and milkmaids (Cardamine californica), among others. Commonly encountered non‐native species include French broom (Genista monspessulana), Scotch broom (Cytisus scoparius), blackwood acacia (Acacia melanoxylon), wild plum (Prunus cerasifera), cotoneaster (Cotoneaster spp.) and broadleaved forget‐me‐not (Myosotis latifolia); the native species Douglas fir (Pseudotstuga menziesii) is also present, invading this habitat from elsewhere on Mount Tamalpais. On site, this plant community intergrades with California bay forest and northern coastal scrub habitats.

Coast live oak woodland conforms to the Quercus agrifolia Woodland Alliance as described by Sawyer, et al. (2009); it would be considered as upland following Cowardin, et al. (1979); however, stands overlapping stream banks are frequently regarded as riparian; impacts to such stands may be regulated under state or local laws and policies.

Central Coast Riparian Scrub Central Coast riparian scrub typically consists of scrubby streamside, open to impenetrable thickets composed of any of several species of willows. This plant community occurs close to river channels and near the coast on fine‐grained sand and gravel bars with a high water table. It is distributed along and at the mouths of most perennial and many intermittent streams of the South Coast Ranges, from the Bay Area to near Point Conception (Holland 1986). Outside of riparian situations, that is, near groundwater seeps, willow‐dominated scrub is also commonly found in isolated stands associated with seeps and springs on slopes and as stringers along ephemeral or intermittent channels. It occurs from sea level to 2,170 m (7,100 ft) in elevation. Membership in this alliance requires that arroyo willow comprises over 50 percent relative cover in the shrub or tree canopy. Central Coast riparian scrub has been assigned a rarity ranking of G4/S4; although not considered to have a high priority for inventory in the CNDDB, some associations are so considered (CDFG 2010).

Within the study area, poorly developed stands of Central Coast riparian scrub are present. They may be found principally outside of the dense forest canopy at top of the headwaters of Reed Creek (Zone 3). Characteristic native species occurring on site include arroyo willow (Salix lasiolepis), California blackberry (Rubus ursinus), and poison oak, among others. The non‐native invasive species Cape ivy (Delairea odorata) and Himalayan blackberry are also common at the upper end of Reed Creek. This

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plant community intergrades with redwood forest, northern coastal scrub, and non‐ native annual grassland habitats.

On site, Central Coast riparian scrub most closely conforms to the Arroyo Willow Thicket community (Salix lasiolepis Shrubland Alliance) as described in Sawyer, et al. (2009). Central Coast riparian scrub is classified as a palustrine shrub‐scrub wetland following Cowardin, et al. (1979) and impacts to this plant community may be regulated under federal, state or local laws and policies.

Northern (Franciscan) Coastal Scrub Northern coastal scrub consists of a dense cover of low shrubs up to six feet high with a well‐developed herbaceous or low woody understory. It is frequently interspersed with coastal terrace prairie grassland. Northern coastal scrub is most extensive on windy, exposed sites with shallow, rocky soils. This vegetation community is distributed in a discontinuous strip from southern Oregon to Point Sur, Monterey County within the immediate coastal zone and at elevations up to 460 m (1,500 ft) (Holland 1986; Holland and Keil 1990).

Within the study area, northern coastal scrub occurs in rather patchy stands on north‐ facing slopes at the upper elevations of Zones 1 and 6. Vegetation here is very mixed and difficult to assign to any specific alliance described in Sawyer, et al., (2009). The most commonly dominant species is the native coyote brush (Baccharis pilularis). Other commonly native species include coffeeberry, chaparral oak (Quercus wislizenii), sticky monkeyflower (Mimulus aurantiacus), western bracken fern (Pteridium aquilinum var. pubescens), cow parsnip (Heracleum lanatum). Invasive non‐native species such as French broom and Scotch broom are also common. This plant community intergrades with non‐native annual grassland and coast live oak woodland habitats.

Within the study area, northern coastal scrub most closely corresponds to the Coyote Brush Scrub Alliance described by Sawyer, et al. (2009). This alliance has a rarity ranking of G5 S5 (CDFG 2010), which is not considered to have a high priority for inventory in the CNDDB. Northern coastal scrub would be classified as an upland following Cowardin, et al. (1979).

California Annual Grassland California annual grassland is generally found in open areas in valleys and foothills throughout coastal and interior California (Holland 1986). It typically occurs on soils consisting of fine‐textured loams or clays that are somewhat poorly drained. This vegetation type is dominated by non‐native annual grasses and weedy annual and perennial forbs, primarily of Mediterranean origin, that have replaced native perennial grasslands, scrub and woodland as a result of human disturbance. Scattered native wildflowers and grasses, representing remnants of the original vegetation may also be

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common. On site, non‐native annual grassland intergrades with coastal terrace prairie, northern coastal scrub and all of the disturbed habitats dominated by non‐native species.

Characteristic non‐native annual grasses commonly found on site include wild oats, brome grasses (Bromus spp.), wild barley (Hordeum spp.), quaking grass (Briza spp.), Italian ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum), and fescue (Vulpia spp.). Common non‐native forbs include yellow star thistle (Centaurea solstitialis), field bindweed (Convovulus arvensis), craneʹs‐bill (Geranium dissectum), sheep sorrel (Rumex acetosella), bur‐clover (Medicago polymorpha), and filaree (Erodium spp.), among others. Numerous remnants of native perennial bunchgrass grassland habitat were also detected, including purple needlegrass (Stipa pulchra), foothill needlegrass (Stipa lepida), western dichondra (Dichondra donelliana), soap plant (Chlorogalum pomeridianum), red fescue (Festuca rubra), wildrye (Elymus glaucus), wood rush (Luzula comosa), wood strawberry (Fragaria vesca), death camas (Zigadenus fremontiii) and footsteps‐of‐spring (Sanicula arctopoides), among others. Native and non‐native species that are invading grassland habitat on site include Tasmanian blue gum, Monterey pine (Pinus radiata), Douglas fir, French broom, Scotch broom, blackwood acacia, and green wattle (Acacia decurrens). Stands of grassland are present on the upper slopes of Zones 1, 3, 5, 6 and 7.

Non‐native annual grassland most closely conforms to wild oats grasslands (Avena Semi‐Natural Herbaceous Stands) as described in Sawyer, et al. (2009); this widespread non‐native plant community has no rarity ranking (CDFG 2010). Non‐native annual grassland would be classified as an upland following Cowardin, et al. (1979).

Native Perennial Grassland Native perennial grassland is a native plant community with a substantial component of any of several perennial, tussock‐forming grass species in the genus Elymus, Festuca, Melica, and Stipa, among others. These grasslands are typically most well‐developed on fine‐textured, often clayey soils that remain moist well into the growing season after winter rains, but are very dry during the summer. Frequently, stands will consist of 50 percent cover or more of non‐native grasses and forbs. Native grassland communities originally covered about 13 percent of the land area of California. The most extensive areas of grasslands were located in the San Joaquin, Sacramento and Salinas valleys, the Los Angeles Basin, the Transverse and Peninsula ranges, to the Mojave Desert and Baja California in areas too hot and dry to support woodland vegetation. Native perennial grasslands represent a natural resource that has been greatly diminished since the introduction of grazing livestock and Eurasian grasses and forbs, cultivation and development. Introduced annual grasses and forbs are much more tolerant of intense grazing than the native perennial grasses. As a result, the extent of native grasslands has been greatly reduced while the nonnative annual grasses have become naturalized and widespread.

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On site, native perennial grassland most closely conforms to Purple Needlegrass Grassland (Nassella pulchra Herbaceous Alliance) as described in Sawyer, et al. (2009). Membership in this alliance typically requires greater than ten percent relative cover of purple needlegrass in the herbaceous layer. It has a rarity ranking of G4 S3? and is considered to have a high priority for inventory in the CNDDB (CDFG 2010). Native perennial grasslands on site would be classified as uplands following Cowardin, et al. (1979).

Anthropogenic Plant Associations Anthropogenic plant associations are those dominated by plant species introduced by humans and established or maintained by human disturbances or activities (Holland and Keil 1990). Some are entirely artificial such as areas under active cultivation (e.g., rowcrops, orchards, vineyards). Others include areas used as rangeland or pasture, and areas influenced by urban or suburban landscaping or plantings. On such sites, the native vegetation has typically been removed by clearing in preparation for cultivation, landscaping, or development. Cleared areas that are planted with or colonized by non‐indigenous plant species can create distinct communities dominated by annual grasses and forbs, shrubs, or trees. Some of these communities are only perpetuated with direct human intervention such as irrigation or grazing, while others are able to persist their own. In some situations, introduced non‐indigenous species invade native habitats, altering the composition of the native understory or canopy, or both.

Within the study area, anthropogenic habitats include developed and landscaped areas of lawns and maintained ornamental plantings, as well as non‐maintained areas within the general development. Specific mapping units in the study area (see Figure 2) include non‐native woodland and ruderal and landscaped area. These are described in more detail below.

Non‐native Woodland Within the study area are extensive areas dominated by exotic trees such as Tasmanian blue gum (Eucalyptus globulus), green wattle (Acacia decurrens), blackwood acacia (Acacia melanoxylon), and cherry plum (Prunus cerasifera), along with California native trees that are not indigenous to Marin County such as Monterey cypress (Hesperocyperus macrocarpa) and Monterey pine (Pinus radiata).

Stands of eucalyptus woodland dominated by Tasmanian blue gum trees 60‐80 feet in height. Zone 2 is virtually dominated by the species and substantial groves are present in Zones 1, 3, and 6. Although these stands have substantially altered the habitat, remnants of the native habitats that previously occupied these locations are readily apparent, such as coast live oak woodland, northern coastal scrub and grasslands. Although infrequent, young plants of coast live oak, toyon, and coffeeberry, can be

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found in the understory, along with such native species as manroot (Marah fabaceus), wood strawberry, western dichondra, purple needlegrass, California honeysuckle, poison oak, and many others.

A single stand dominated by Monterey cypress is present in Zone 1. Scattered individuals and small stands of Monterey pine and cherry plum are present in Zones 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, and 7. Green wattle and/or blackwood acacia are present in Zones 1, 2, 3, 6 and 7.

Non‐native woodland would be classified as an upland following Cowardin, et al. (1979).

Ruderal and Landscaped Area Ruderal habitat is that from which the native vegetation has been completely removed by grading, cultivation, or other surface disturbances. Left undeveloped, such areas typically become recolonized by invasive exotic species. Scattered native species might recolonize the site after disturbance has ceased. Ruderal sites may be dominated by herbaceous species, although scattered woody shrubs and trees may also begin to appear if left undisturbed long enough. Ruderal sites are characteristic of road sides, fallow agricultural fields, vacant lots, and large landslides. Landscaped areas may support any number of exotic herbs, shrubs or trees.

Exotic plant species commonly encountered in ruderal and landscaped areas include pride‐of‐Madeira (Echium candicans), English ivy (Hedera helix), sweet fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), common forget‐me‐not (Myosotis latifolia), French broom (Genista monspessulana), Scotch broom (Cytissus scoparius), cotoneaster (Cotoneaster pannosus, C. franchetii), Bermuda buttercup (Oxalis pes‐caprae), velvet grass (Holcus lanatus), big quaking grass (Briza maxima), African cornflag (Chasmanthe floribunda), and spiderwort, among many others.

Within the study area, extensive areas of ruderal and landscaped habitats are present in Zones 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7.

Ruderal and landscaped areas would be classified as uplands following Cowardin, et al. (1979).

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4.0 RESULTS

4.1 Special‐Status Natural Communities

As defined by the CDFW, special‐status natural communities are communities that are of limited distribution statewide or within a county or region and are often vulnerable to environmental effects of projects. These communities may or may not contain special status species or their habitat (CDFG 2009). Vegetation alliances that have been assigned a global rarity ranking of G1 through G3 are either known or believed to be of high priority for inventory in CNDDB; certain vegetation associations are also believed to be rare and are listed as being of high priority for inventory in the CNDDB (CDFG 2007); alliances or associations so designated are considered to have special status and impacts should be addressed in environmental documents. California’s natural communities have been ranked in terms of their significance and rarity (CDFG 2010).

In addition, most types of wetlands and riparian communities are considered special‐ status natural communities due to their limited distribution in California. Many of these natural communities are considered rare in the region, support special‐status plant or wildlife species, or receive regulatory protection (i.e., Waters of the United States4, covered under Sections 404 and 401 of the Clean Water Act [CWA] and/or Waters of the State5 covered under the Lake and Streambed Alteration Program (LSAP)6 and the Porter‐Cologne Water Quality Control Act (Porter‐Cologne).7

Special‐status plant associations occurring within the HVLT lands include redwood forest (G3/S3) and California bay forest (G4/S3). In addition, small stands of Central Coast riparian scrub are also present along water courses and near springs. Impacts to these plant associations would be considered to meet the significance criteria outlined in the CEQA8. Although Central Coast riparian scrub is relatively common, having a rarity ranking of G4/S4, it is typically regarded as a special‐status natural community due to its association with waters of the U.S. and waters of the State. Impacts to Central Coast riparian scrub are usually considered to meet the significance criteria outlined in the CEQA and may fall under the jurisdiction of the USACE, CDFG, and/or the Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB).

4 Waters of the U.S. are defined in the Code of Federal Regulations 40 CFR 230.3(s). 5Waters of the State are defined as “any surface water or groundwater, including saline waters, within the boundaries of the state” California Water Code §13050(e). These include nearly every surface or ground water in California, or tributaries thereto, and include drainage features outside USACE jurisdiction (e.g., dry and ephemeral/seasonal stream beds and channels, etc.), isolated wetlands (e.g., vernal pools, seeps, springs and other groundwater‐supplied wetlands, etc.), and storm drains and flood control channels. 6 CFGC §1600, et seq. 7 Water Code §§13000–14920. 8 CEQA §15065

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Reed Creek is an intermittent stream course, appearing as a “blue line” stream on the San Rafael USGS topographic quadrangle, qualifying it as a waters of the U.S.9 and a waters of the State10 and falling under the jurisdiction of the USACE, RWQCB, and the CDFG. The study area supports several springs and ephemeral tributaries on side slopes; these side channels are also expected to fall under federal and State jurisdiction.

Direct impacts (e.g., placement of fill, dredging, clearing of vegetation, water diversions, installation of culverts and outfalls) to waters of the U.S., waters of the state, and riparian habitat would be regarded as significant adverse under CEQA guidelines11 and would fall under the jurisdiction of one or more of the regulatory agencies listed above. Indirect effects that might also constitute significant adverse impacts include activities that would result in the release of sediment or other pollutants into the riparian system.

4.2 Special‐Status Plant Species

The laws comprising California’s legal framework and authority for plant species conservation include the federal Endangered Species Act (FESA), California Endangered Species Act (CESA), the California Native Plant Protection Act (CNPPA), and the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Special‐status plants include those listed as endangered, threatened, or rare or as candidates for listing under FESA12 or CESA13, CDFG 2013b), those listed as rare under the CNPPA14, those that meet the

9 Waters of the U.S. include:  All waters that are currently used, or were used in the past, or may be susceptible to use in interstate or foreign commerce, including all waters that are subject to the ebb and flow of tide;  All interstate waters, including interstate wetlands;  All other waters, such as interstate lakes, rivers, streams (including intermittent streams), mudflats, sandflats, wetlands, sloughs, prairie potholes, vernal pools, wet meadows, playa lakes, or natural ponds, the use, degradation, or destruction of which could affect interstate or foreign commerce;  Tributaries of the above;  Territorial seas; and  Wetlands adjacent to waters defined above.  Although isolated wetlands no longer fall under USACE jurisdiction, impacts to isolated wetlands continue to be regulated under State law (see below). 10 Waters of the State are defined as “any surface water or groundwater, including saline waters, within the boundaries of the state.” (California Water Code §13050(e).) These waters include nearly every and all surface or ground water in the state, or tributaries thereto, and include drainage features outside USACE jurisdiction (e.g., dry and ephemeral/seasonal stream beds and channels, etc., isolated wetlands such as vernal pools, seeps, springs and other groundwater‐ supplied wetlands, etc., and storm drains and flood control channels. 11 CEQA §15065. Mandatory Findings of Significance 12 50 CFR§17.12 13 CA Fish and Game Code §2050, et seq. 14 CA Fish and Game Code §1900, et seq.

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definition of rare or endangered under CEQA15, and species considered to be locally significant16 (CDFG 2009). Plant species routinely regarded as having special‐status include plants listed by the CDFW (CDFG 2013a), as well as those found on lists 1B and 2 of the CNPS (2012).

Based on a review of special‐status plant species in the project region (CNDDB 2013, CNPS 2012, USFWS 2011), a total of 76 special‐status plant species have been recorded from the project region. A summary of the status, habitat affinities, blooming period, and potential for occurrence within the study area for each of the target plant species is presented in Appendix A. An explanation of all rarity status codes is provided in Appendix B.

No federally or State‐listed plant species were detected and none is expected to occur within the lands under control of the HVLT. Of the 76 target species, the presence of 69 of the target species can be completely ruled out due to the lack of suitable habitat within the study area and the fact that they would have been identifiable during the present survey. The presence of four taxa cannot be completely ruled out because they might not have been detectable during the present survey, but are not expected to occur on site due to the presence of only marginally suitable habitat.

Relatively high numbers of the special‐status plant Oakland star‐tulip were observed in Zone 6. Although not detected, the presence of two other special‐status species are worthy of discussion due to their known occurrence nearby and the fact that their presence within the study area cannot be completely ruled out; each is discussed in more detail, below. Although not considered to have any potential to occur in the study area, a third species is also discussed due to its status as a federally and State‐ listed species and because it might not have been detectable during the present survey.

Oakland Star‐Tulip Oakland star‐tulip (Calochortus umbellatus) is a bulb‐forming perennial herb belonging to the lily family (Liliaceae). Stems grow up to 12 inches high, producing 3‐12 erect white to pale pink‐lilac colored flowers. Flowering occurs March through May. Oakland star‐tulip occurs in chaparral, cismontane woodland, broadleafed upland forest, lower montane coniferous forest and valley and foothill grassland. It is known from Alameda, Contra Costa, Lake, Marin, Santa Clara, San Mateo and Stanislaus counties; it is presumed extirpated from Santa Cruz County. In Marin County, Oakland star‐tulip is known from at least 48 occurrences in the project vicinity (Consortium of California Herbaria17).

15 §15380(b) and (d) 16 As specified under CEQA §15125(c) or CEQA Guidelines, Appendix G 17 Available on line at http://ucjeps.berkeley.edu/consortium/about.html

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Oakland star‐tulip has no status under the federal or State endangered species acts. However, it is a State listed Special Plant species (CDFG 2013a) and it is on the CNPS List 4.2, indicating that it is uncommon in California and fairly endangered here. It has a global ranking of G3 and a state ranking of S3.2, indicating that it is vulnerable and threatened. Depending on their severity, impacts to Oakland star‐tulip may be regarded as significant under California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) guidelines and should be addressed in environmental documents.

Within the study area, 22 populations of Oakland star‐tulip were detected in Zone 6 (Figure 3). Populations sizes estimated from six to over 200 individuals, with a total estimated number of at least 765 plants growing on site.

Small Ground‐cone Small ground‐cone (Kopsiopsis hookeri) is a perennial rhizomatous parasitic herb in the broomrape family (Orobanchaceae). Lacking chlorophyll, the only above ground parts of this parasitic vascular plant consist of pale yellow to purplish inflorescence that protrudes from the ground 7‐16 cm high. Flowering occurs April through August.

Small ground‐cone is a native species found in California, Oregon and Washington; in California, it is known from Del Norte, Humboldt, Mendocino, Marin and Trinity counties. It is associated with North Coast coniferous forests, growing at elevations of 90‐885 m (295‐2900 ft). Small ground‐cone is parasitic on salal (Gaultheria shallon) and huckleberry (Vaccinium spp.)

Small ground‐cone has no status under the federal or State endangered species acts. However, it is a State listed Special Plant species (CDFG 2013a) and it is on the CNPS List 2B.3, indicating that it is uncommon in California but not very endangered. It has a global ranking of G5 and a state ranking of S1S2, indicating that it is imperiled here. In general, impacts to small ground‐cone would be regarded as significant under California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) guidelines and should be addressed in environmental documents.

There are four records (Occ #1, 2, 3, 8) of small ground‐cone from the San Rafael quadrangle in Marin County (CNDDB 2013), the nearest of which (Occ #3, 1970) is located 0.6 miles due north of the study area. Although not detected during the present survey, small ground‐cone is regarded as possibly occurring on site due to the proximity of recorded populations and the presence of suitable habitat, particularly in Zone 5.

Wood Biological Consulting, Inc. – Floristic Analysis, Homestead Valley Land Trust 16 Source: Google Earth, imagery dated 5/6/2012 Figure3. Oakland Star‐Tulip Populations in Zone

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Tamalpais Oak Tamalpais oak (Quercus parvula var. tamalpaisensis) is a perennial evergreen shrub in the oak family (Fagaceae). It is a California native taxon restricted to Marin County. It is associated with the understory of lower montane coniferous forest and is known only from Mt. Tamalpais at 100‐750 m (328‐2460 ft) in elevation. Flowering occurs from March through April.

Tamalpais oak has no status under the federal or State endangered species acts. However, it is a State listed Special Plant species (CDFG 2013a) and it is on the CNPS List 1B.2, indicating that it is uncommon in California and fairly endangered here. It has a global ranking of G4T2 and a state ranking of S2, indicating that it is imperiled but apparently secure. In general, impacts to Tamalpais oak would be regarded as significant under California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) guidelines and should be addressed in environmental documents.

Tamalpais oak has been recorded from nine locations, the nearest of which is reported only as “a ridge west of Mill Valley” (Occ. #5, CNDDB 2012); a plot of the “best guess” coordinates for this record shows the taxon located near Zone 3 at the western end of the HVLT lands. Although not detected during the present survey, Tamalpais oak is regarded as possibly occurring on site due to the proximity of recorded populations and the presence of suitable habitat, particularly in Zones 3 and 6.

Santa Cruz Tarplant Santa Cruz tarplant (Holocarpha macradenia) is an annual herb belonging to the sunflower family (Asteraceae). It develops from a basal rosette of leaves, 2‐10 cm long with minutely toothed margins. Plants are strongly scented and densely glandular. Axillary leaf clusters are tipped with yellow tack‐shaped glands that exude a sticky tar‐like liquid. Flower heads are clustered and spherical, 10–14 mm in diameter, with 8–16 ray flowers 40–90 disk flowers, which have black anthers. Flowering occurs June through October.

Santa Cruz tarplant is restricted to coastal prairie, coastal scrub and valley and foothill grasslands, often on clay or sandy soils, at 10‐220 m (33‐722 ft) in elevation. Its current range includes marine terraces of the northern Monterey Bay in Monterey and Santa Cruz counties, historically ranging into Alameda and Contra Costa counties. It is known from 37 historic occurrences, 22 of which are believed to be extant in only Solano and Santa Cruz counties (CNDDB 2012). All extant occurrences in Contra Costa County are reintroductions.

Santa Cruz tarplant was listed as Endangered under the California Endangered Species Act (CESA) in 1979 and as Threatened under the Federal Endangered Species Act (FESA) in 2000. It is on the California Native Plant Societyʹs (CNPS) List 1B.1,

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indicating that it is endangered in California, distributed in one to several highly restricted occurrences, is endemic to California and endangered throughout its range. It is against State law to pick or in any way disturb Santa Cruz tarplant or its habitat.

There are two historic records (Occ#24, 25) of Santa Cruz tarplant from the San Rafael quadrangle in Marin County (CNDDB 2012); there are no known extant occurrences of the species in Marin County. Because the present survey was conducted at the very beginning of the flower season for this species, it might not have been detectable. However, no unidentified tarplants were detected; it is not considered to have any potential for occurrence on site.

5.0 CONCLUSIONS

Based on the performance of appropriately timed surveys by qualified botanists following published protocol, the study area does not support any populations of federally or state‐listed plant species. One special‐status plant species (Oakland star‐ tulip; CNPS List 4.2) was found to be abundant in Zone 6 (see Figure 3). Although not detected, two additional special‐status plant species are still regarded as possibly occurring on HVLT lands on site due to the proximity of recorded populations and the presence of suitable habitat. However, there is no potential for the occurrence of these species in areas requiring treatment for fire fuel reduction such as non‐native woodlands.

Implementation of activities associated with fuel reduction, eradication of invasive species and routine vegetation management are unlikely to result in significant adverse effects on special‐status species. While regarded as a special‐status species, Oakland star‐tulip, is not critically imperiled; it is both relatively common on site and regionally. Populations of Oakland star‐tulip situated in and adjacent to stands of Eucalyptus trees may be impacted by soil surface disturbances resulting from equipment operations or burial beneath wood chips. This perennial geophyte is expected to be able to tolerate such limited surface alterations as may result from the proposed actions. Project activities such as brush and tree clearing, per se, would neither threaten the long‐term persistence of the species in the Homestead Valley nor would they jeopardize the species survival.

Special‐status plant associations occurring within the HVLT lands include redwood forest (G3/S3) and California bay forest (G4/S3). In addition, small stands of Central Coast riparian scrub are also present along water courses and near springs. Coast live oak woodland overlapping the northern stream channel may be regulated under State or local laws or ordinances.

In addition, Reed Creek and several unnamed tributaries potentially qualifying as waters of the U.S. and waters of the State are present on site. Any development,

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grading or filling below the top of bank is regulated and federal and State permits would be required. Impacts to these habitats and surface features would be considered significant under CEQA guidelines.

Prior to implementing any activities that may impact riparian habitat or the banks or beds of any creek or surface tributary, a wetland delineation and jurisdictional determination should be performed. Permits are required for unavoidable impacts to these regulated biological resources falling under the jurisdiction of the USACE, CDFW and the RWQCB. The impact avoidance and minimization measures outlined in the biological assessment report (Wood Biological Consulting 201218) should be followed in the course of implementing any vegetation management activities.

6.0 LITERATURE CITED

Baldwin, B.G, D.H. Goldman, D.J. Keil, R. Patterson, T.J. Rosatti, and D.H. Wilken, editors. 2012. The Jepson Manual: Vascular Plants of California. Second edition. Univ. Calif. Press, Berkeley. 1568 pp. Blake, M.C., R.W. Graymer, and D.L. Jones. 2000. Geologic Map and Map Database of Parts of Marin, San Francisco, Alameda, Contra Costa and Sonoma Counties, California. U.S. Geological Survey, U.S. Department of the Interior. Available online at http://pubs.usgs.gov/mf/2000/2337/mf2337f.pdf CalBiota. A California Species Compendium. Version 2.1. Electronic database of the biota of California. Created by Michael Wood, Walnut Creek. California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG). 2007. List of California Vegetation Alliances. Vegetation Classification and Mapping Program, Biogeographic Data Branch. October 22. Available online at http://www.dfg.ca.gov/biogeodata/vegcamp/pdfs/naturalcommunitieslist_oct07.pdf. California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG). 2009. Protocols for Surveying and Evaluating Impacts to Special Status Native Plant Populations and Natural Communities. November 24. Available online at http://www.dfg.ca.gov/biogeodata/cnddb/pdfs/Protocols_for_Surveying_and_Evaluat ing_Impacts.pdf. California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG). 2010. Natural Communities List Arranged Alphabetically by Life Form. Vegetation Classification and Mapping Program, Biogeographic Data Branch. September. Available online at http://www.dfg.ca.gov/biogeodata/vegcamp/pdfs/natcomlist.pdf.

18 see Section 5.0

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California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFG). 2013a. Special Vascular Plants, Bryophytes, and Lichens List. Biannual publication, Mimeo. January. Available online at http://www.dfg.ca.gov/biogeodata/cnddb/pdfs/SPPlants.pdf. _____. 2013b. State and Federally Listed Endangered, Threatened, and Rare Plants of California. Habitat Conservation Division, California Natural Diversity Data Base. January. Available online at http://www.dfg.ca.gov/biogeodata/cnddb/pdfs/TEPlants.pdf. California Native Plant Society (CNPS). 2001. Botanical Survey Guidelines. Revised June 2. Available on line at http://www.cnps.org/cnps/rareplants/pdf/cnps_survey_guidelines.pdf. _____. 2012. Inventory of Rare and Endangered Plants. Online search of the San Rafael, San Geronimo, Novato, San Quentin, San Francisco North, Petaluma Point, Bolinas, and Point Bonita USGS 7.5’ Quadrangles. California Native Plant Society. Sacramento, CA. Online edition, v8‐01a. Accessed on February 23 at http://www.cnps.org/inventory. California Natural Diversity Data Base (CNDDB). 2013. Data Base Print‐out for the San Rafael, San Geronimo, Novato, San Quentin, San Francisco North, Petaluma Point, Bolinas, and Point Bonita USGS 7.5’ Quadrangles. RareFind 3.1.0. California Department of Fish and Game, Habitat Conservation Division. Sacramento, California. Information dated February 1. California Oak Foundation. 2007. California Oak Report. June. Available on line at http://www.californiaoaks.org/html/oak_report_06‐07.html Cowardin, L.M., V. Carter, F.C. Golet, and E.T. LaRoe. 1979. Classification of Wetlands and Deepwater Habitats of the United States. U.S. Department of the Interior, Fish and Wildlife Service, Washington, D.C. 131 pp. Available online at http://www.npwrc.usgs.gov/resource/wetlands/classwet/index.htm Holland, R. 1986. Preliminary Descriptions of the Terrestrial Natural Communities of California. California Department of Fish and Game, The Resources Agency. 156 pp. Available on line at http://www.cal‐ipc.org/ip/inventory/pdf/HollandReport.pdf. Holland, V.L. and D.J. Keil. 1990. California Vegetation. Calif. Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo. 4th edition. 318 pp. Howell, J.T., F. Almeda, W. Follette, and C. Best. 2007. Marin Flora. Revised illustrated edition. California Academy of Sciences and California Native Plant Society (Marin Chapter). 510 pp. Sawyer, J.O., T. Keeler‐Wolf, and J.M. Evans. 2009. A Manual of California Vegetation (2nd edition). California Native Plant Society, Sacramento. 1300 pp. Available on line at http://www.cnps.org/cnps/vegetation/manual_2ed.php. United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). 1985. Soil Survey of Marin County, California. Soil Conservation Service. March.

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_____. 1991. Hydric Soils of the United States. Soil Conservation Service. Misc. Publ. No. 1491. United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 2000. Guidelines for Conducting and Reporting Botanical Inventories for Federally Listed, Proposed and Candidate Plants. January. Available online at http://www.fws.gov/ventura/speciesinfo/protocols_guidelines/docs/botanicalinventori es.pdf _____. 2011. Federal Endangered and Threatened Species that Occur in or may be Affected by Projects in the San Rafael, San Geronimo, Novato, San Quentin, San Francisco North, Petaluma Point, Bolinas, and Point Bonita USGS 7.5’ Quadrangles. Threatened and Endangered Species System (TESS) printout. Database updated September 18. Accessed February 23, 2012 at http://www.fws.gov/sacramento/ES_Species/Lists/es_species_lists‐overview.htm. Wood Biological Consulting. 2012. BiologicalAssessment, Fire Fuel Reduction and Vegetation Management Projects, Homestead Valley Land Trust, Marin County, California. Unpublished technical report prepared for the Homestead Valley Land Trust, Mill Valley, CA. May 25.

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APPENDIX A

POTENTIALLY OCCURRING SPECIAL‐STATUS PLANT SPECIES

Wood Biological Consulting, Inc. – Floristic Analysis, Homestead Valley Land Trust Special-status Plants Evaluated For The Jun 27, 2013 Homestead Valley Land Trust

FAMILY Scientific Name Habitat Affinities And Blooming Time Potential For Common Name Status Reported Distribution Life Form Occurrence On Site Apiaceae - Carrot Family Perideridia gairdneri ssp. gairdneri Federal: none Occurs in broadleafed upland forest, chaparral, coastal prairie, Jun-Oct None: valley and foothill grassland, vernal pools Gairdner's yampah State: none Perennial Herb marginally suitable Moisture: vernally mesic. habitat present. CNPS: 4.2 Recorded from Contra Costa, Kern, Los Angeles, Marin, Would have been Mendocino, Monterey, Napa, Orange, San Benito, San Diego, Other: DFG: SP detectable during present San Luis Obispo, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, Solano, survey. Sonoma; presumed extirpated from Los Angeles, Orange, and San Diego counties. Not recorded from San Rafael quadrangle. Asteraceae - Sunflower Family Cirsium andrewsii Federal: none Occurs in broadleafed upland forest, coastal bluff scrub, coastal Mar-Jul None: prairie, coastal scrub Franciscan thistle State: none Perennial Herb marginally suitable Moisture: mesic,Substrate: sometimes serpentinite, habitat present. CNPS: 1B.2 Recorded from Contra Costa, Marin, San Francisco, San Mateo, Would have been Sonoma. Other: DFG: SP detectable during present Not recorded from San Rafael quadrangle. survey. Cirsium hydrophilum var. vaseyi Federal: none Occurs in broadleafed upland forest, chaparral, meadows, May-Aug None: mixed evergreen forest Mt. Tamalpais thistle State: none Perennial Herb no serpentinitic soils Substrate: serpentinite, Habitats Note: seeps. present. CNPS: 1B.2 Recorded from Marin. Would have been Known from San Rafael quadrangle. Other: DFG: SP detectable during present survey. Grindelia hirsutula var. maritima Federal: none Occurs in coastal bluff scrub, coastal scrub, valley and foothill Jun-Sep None: grassland San Francisco gumplant State: none Perennial Herb marginally suitable Substrate: sandy or serpentinite. habitat present. CNPS: 3.2 Recorded from Marin, Monterey, San Francisco, San Luis Would have been Obispo, San Mateo, Santa Cruz. Other: DFG: SP detectable during present Not recorded from San Rafael quadrangle. survey.

TM CalBiota Page 1 Special-status Plants Evaluated For The Jun 27, 2013 Homestead Valley Land Trust

FAMILY Scientific Name Habitat Affinities And Blooming Time Potential For Common Name Status Reported Distribution Life Form Occurrence On Site Helianthella castanea Federal: none Occurs in broadleafed upland forest, chaparral, cismontane Mar-Jun None: woodland, coastal scrub, riparian woodland, valley and foothill State: none Perennial Herb suitable habitat present. Diablo helianthella grassland. Would have been CNPS: 1B.2 Recorded from Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, San Mateo, San detectable during present Francisco. Additional distribution: presumed extirpated in Marin survey. Other: DFG: SP and San Francisco counties. Known from San Rafael quadrangle.

Hemizonia congesta ssp. congesta Federal: none Occurs in valley and foothill grassland. Apr-Nov None: Habitats Note: sometimes roadsides. pale yellow hayfield tarweed State: none Annual Herb marginally suitable Recorded from Marin, Mendocino, San Francisco, San Mateo, habitat present. CNPS: 1B.2 Sonoma. Would have been Known from San Rafael quadrangle. Other: detectable during present survey. Holocarpha macradenia Federal: FT Occurs in coastal prairie, coastal scrub, valley and foothill Jun-Oct None: grassland Santa Cruz tarplant State: SE Annual Herb suitable habitat present. Substrate: often clay, sandy. Might not have been CNPS: 1B.1 Recorded from Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Monterey, Santa detectable during present Cruz, Solano. Additional distribution: presumed extirpated in Other: DFG: SP survey; see text for Alameda, Contra Costa, and Marin counties. details. Known from San Rafael quadrangle. Layia carnosa Federal: FE Occurs in coastal dunes, coastal scrub. Mar-Jul None: Substrate: sandy. beach layia State: SE Annual Herb no suitable habitat Recorded from Humboldt, Marin, Monterey, San Francisco, present. CNPS: 1B.1 Santa Barbara; presumed extirpated in Santa Barbara and San Would have been Francisco counties. Other: DFG: SP detectable during present Not recorded from San Rafael quadrangle. survey. Lessingia hololeuca Federal: none Occurs in broadleafed upland forest, coastal scrub, lower Jun-Oct None: montane coniferous forest, valley and foothill grassland woolly-headed lessingia State: none Annual Herb marginally suitable Substrate: serpentinite, clay. habitat present. CNPS: 3 Recorded from Alameda, Marin, Monterey, Napa, San Mateo, Would have been Santa Clara, Solano, Sonoma, Yolo. Other: DFG: SP detectable during present Not recorded from San Rafael quadrangle. survey.

TM CalBiota Page 2 Special-status Plants Evaluated For The Jun 27, 2013 Homestead Valley Land Trust

FAMILY Scientific Name Habitat Affinities And Blooming Time Potential For Common Name Status Reported Distribution Life Form Occurrence On Site Lessingia micradenia var. micradenia Federal: none Occurs in chaparral, valley and foothill grassland Jun-Oct None: Substrate: usually serpentinite, Habitats Note: often roadsides. State: none Annual Herb no serpentinitic soils Tamalpais lessingia Recorded from Marin. Additional distribution: known only from present. CNPS: 1B.2 four occurrences in the Mt. Tamalpais area. Known from San Rafael quadrangle. Other: DFG: SP Would have been detectable during present survey.

Micropus amphibolus Federal: none Occurs in broadleafed upland forest, chaparral, cismontane Mar-May None: woodland, valley and foothill grassland Mt. Diablo cottonweed State: none Annual Herb no suitable habitat Substrate: rocky. present. CNPS: 3.2 Recorded from Alameda, Colusa, Contra Costa, Lake, Marin, Would have been Monterey, Napa, San Joaquin, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, Other: DFG: SP detectable during present Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, Solano, Sonoma. survey. Not recorded from San Rafael quadrangle. Microseris paludosa Federal: none Occurs in closed-cone coniferous forest, cismontane woodland, Apr-Jul None: coastal scrub, valley and foothill grassland. marsh microseris State: none Perennial Herb marginally suitable Recorded from Marin, Mendocino, Monterey, San Benito, San habitat present. CNPS: 1B.2 Francisco, San Luis Obispo, San Mateo, Santa Cruz, Sonoma; Would have been presumed extirpated in San Francisco and San Mateo counties. Other: DFG: SP detectable during present Known from San Rafael quadrangle. survey. Pentachaeta bellidiflora Federal: FE Occurs in valley and foothill grassland. Mar-May None: Substrate: serpentinite. white-rayed pentachaeta State: SE Annual Herb no suitable habitat Recorded from Marin, San Mateo, Santa Cruz. Additional present. CNPS: 1B.1 distribution: known from fewer than 20 occurrences. Would have been Known from San Rafael quadrangle. Other: DFG: SP detectable during present survey. Stebbinsoseris decipiens Federal: none Occurs in broadleafed upland forest, chaparral, closed-cone Apr-May None: coniferous forest, coastal prairie, coastal scrub, valley and Santa Cruz microseris State: none Annual Herb no serpentinitic soils foothill grassland present. CNPS: 1B.2 Substrate: serpentinite. Would have been Recorded from Marin, Monterey, San Francisco, San Luis Other: DFG: SP detectable during present Obispo, San Mateo, Santa Cruz. Additional distribution: known survey. from fewer than 20 occurrences. Known from San Rafael quadrangle.

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FAMILY Scientific Name Habitat Affinities And Blooming Time Potential For Common Name Status Reported Distribution Life Form Occurrence On Site Boraginaceae - Borage Family Amsinckia lunaris Federal: none Occurs in coastal bluff scrub, cismontane woodland, valley and Mar-Jun None: foothill grassland. bent-flowered fiddleneck State: none Annual Herb marginally suitable Recorded from Alameda, Colusa, Contra Costa, Lake, Marin, habitat present. CNPS: 1B.2 Napa, San Benito, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, Would have been Sonoma, Yolo. Other: DFG: SP detectable during present Not recorded from San Rafael quadrangle. survey. Plagiobothrys glaber Federal: none Occurs in meadows, seeps (alkaline), marshes and swamps Mar-May None: (coastal salt). hairless popcorn-flower State: none Annual Herb no suitable habitat Substrate: alkaline. present. CNPS: 1A Recorded from Alameda, Marin, San Benito, Santa Clara. Would have been Additional distribution: presumed extinct. Other: DFG: SP detectable during present Known from San Rafael quadrangle. survey. Brassicaceae - Mustard Family Arabis blepharophylla Federal: none Occurs in broadleafed upland forest, coastal bluff scrub, coastal Feb-May None: prairie, coastal scrub, mixed evergreen forest, northern coastal coast rock cress State: none Perennial Herb no suitable habitat scrub. present. CNPS: 4.3 Recorded from Contra Costa, Marin, Monterey, San Francisco, Would have been San Mateo, Santa Cruz, Sonoma. Other: DFG: SP detectable during present Not recorded from San Rafael quadrangle. survey. Erysimum franciscanum Federal: none Occurs in chaparral, coastal dunes, coastal scrub, valley and Mar-Jun None: foothill grassland San Francisco wallflower State: none Perennial Herb no suitable habitat Substrate: often serpentinitic or granitic, Habitats Note: present. CNPS: 4.2 sometimes roadsides. Would have been Recorded from Marin, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Other: DFG: SP detectable during present Santa Cruz, Sonoma. survey. Not recorded from San Rafael quadrangle. Streptanthus batrachopus Federal: none Occurs in chaparral, closed-cone coniferous forest, closed-cone Apr-Jul None: pine forest Tamalpais jewel-flower State: none Annual Herb no serpentinitic soils Substrate: serpentinite. present. CNPS: 1B.3 Recorded from Lake, Marin. Additional distribution: known from Would have been fewer than 10 occurrences in the Mt. Tamalpais area. Other: DFG: SP detectable during present Known from San Rafael quadrangle. survey.

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FAMILY Scientific Name Habitat Affinities And Blooming Time Potential For Common Name Status Reported Distribution Life Form Occurrence On Site Streptanthus glandulosus ssp. niger Federal: FE Occurs in valley and foothill grassland May-Jun None: Substrate: serpentinite. State: SE Annual Herb no serpentinitic soils Tiburon jewel-flower Recorded from Marin. Additional distribution: known from only present. CNPS: 1B.1 two occurrences on the Tiburon Peninsula. Known from San Rafael quadrangle. Other: DFG: SP Would have been detectable during present survey.

Streptanthus glandulosus ssp. Federal: none Occurs in chaparral, valley and foothill grassland May-Aug None: pulchellus Substrate: serpentinite. State: none Annual Herb no serpentinitic soils Mt. Tamalpais jewel-flower Recorded from Marin. Additional distribution: known only from present. CNPS: 1B.2 the Mt. Tamalpais area. Would have been Known from San Rafael quadrangle. Other: DFG: SP detectable during present survey. Bryaceae Mielichhoferia elongata Federal: none Occurs in cismontane woodland. n/a Not expected: Moisture: usually vernally mesic,Substrate: metamorpic, rock, elongate copper-moss State: none Moss marginally suitable Recorded from Fresno, Humboldt, Lake, Marin, Mariposa, habitat present. CNPS: 2.2 Nevada, Placer, Plumas, Santa Cruz, Trinity, Tulare. Would have been Not recorded from San Rafael quadrangle. Other: DFG: SP detectable during present survey. Cyperaceae - Sedge Family Carex lyngbyei Federal: none Occurs in marshes and swamps. Apr-Aug None: Habitats Note: brackish or freshwater. Lyngbye's sedge State: none Perennial Herb no suitable habitat Recorded from Del Norte, Humboldt, Marin, Mendocino.Also (rhizomatous) present. CNPS: 2.2 recorded from Oregon. Would have been Not recorded from San Rafael quadrangle. Other: DFG: SP detectable during present survey.

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FAMILY Scientific Name Habitat Affinities And Blooming Time Potential For Common Name Status Reported Distribution Life Form Occurrence On Site Ericaceae - Heath Family Arctostaphylos montana ssp. montana Federal: none Occurs in chaparral, valley and foothill grassland Feb-Apr None: Substrate: serpentine. Mt. Tamalpais manzanita State: none Shrub (evergreen) no serpentinitic soils Recorded from Marin. present. CNPS: 1B.3 Recorded from within 0.6 mi of study area. Would have been Other: DFG: SP detectable during present survey. Arctostaphylos virgata Federal: none Occurs in broadleafed upland forest, chaparral, closed-cone Jan-Mar None: coniferous forest, closed-cone pine forest, mixed evergreen Marin manzanita State: none Shrub (evergreen) suitable substrate not forest, North Coast coniferous forest, redwood forest present. CNPS: 1B.2 Substrate: granitic sedimentary sandstone. Would have been Recorded from Marin. Other: DFG: SP detectable during present Known from San Rafael quadrangle. survey. Fabaceae - Legume Family Amorpha californica var. napensis Federal: none Occurs in broadleafed upland forest, chaparral, cismontane Apr-Jul None: woodland. Napa false indigo State: none Shrub (deciduous) marginally suitable Recorded from Marin, Monterey, Napa, Sonoma. habitat present. CNPS: 1B.2 Known from San Rafael quadrangle. Would have been Other: DFG: SP detectable during present survey. Astragalus breweri Federal: none Occurs in chaparral, cismontane woodland, foothill woodland, Apr-Jun None: meadows, valley and foothill grassland Brewer's milk-vetch State: none Annual Herb no serpentinitic soils Substrate: serpentine volcanic. present. CNPS: 4.2 Recorded from Colusa, Lake, Marin, Mendocino, Napa, Would have been Sonoma, Yolo. Other: DFG: SP detectable during present Not recorded from San Rafael quadrangle. survey. Astragalus nuttallii var. nuttallii Federal: none Occurs in coastal bluff scrub, coastal dunes. Jan-Nov None: Recorded from Alameda, Monterey, San Francisco, San Luis Nuttall's milk-vetch State: none Perennial Herb no suitable habitat Obispo, San Mateo, Santa Barbara. present. CNPS: 4.2 Not recorded from San Rafael quadrangle. Would have been Other: DFG: SP detectable during present survey.

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FAMILY Scientific Name Habitat Affinities And Blooming Time Potential For Common Name Status Reported Distribution Life Form Occurrence On Site Astragalus pycnostachyus var. Federal: none Occurs in coastal dunes, marshes and swamps, coastal scrub Apr-Oct None: pycnostachyus Moisture: mesic, Habitats Note: coastal salt marshes, State: none Perennial Herb no suitable habitat streamsides. present. coastal marsh milk-vetch CNPS: 1B.2 Recorded from Humboldt, Marin, Mendocino, San Mateo. Not recorded from San Rafael quadrangle. Other: DFG: SP Would have been detectable during present survey.

Trifolium amoenum Federal: FE Occurs in coastal bluff scrub, valley and foothill grassland Apr-Jun None: Substrate: sometimes serpentinite. showy Indian clover State: none Annual Herb marginally suitable Recorded from Marin, Napa, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Solano, habitat present. CNPS: 1B.1 Sonoma; presumed extirpated from Napa, Santa Clara and Would have been Solano counties. Other: DFG: SP detectable during present Known from San Rafael quadrangle. survey. Fagaceae - Oak Family Quercus parvula var. tamalpaisensis Federal: none Occurs in lower montane coniferous forest. Mar-Apr Possible: Recorded from Marin. Additional distribution: known only from Tamalpais oak State: none Shrub (evergreen) suitable habitat present. Mt. Tamalpais. See report for details. CNPS: 1B.3 Known from San Rafael quadrangle.

Other: DFG: SP Fissidentaceae Fissidens pauperculus Federal: none Occurs in North Coast coniferous forest. n/a Not expected: Moisture: damp,Substrate: soils, minute pocket-moss State: none Moss marginally suitable Recorded from Butte, Humboldt, Marin, Mendocino, Santa Cruz. habitat present. CNPS: 1B.2 Recorded from within 0.8 mi of study area. Would have been Other: DFG: SP detectable during present survey.

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FAMILY Scientific Name Habitat Affinities And Blooming Time Potential For Common Name Status Reported Distribution Life Form Occurrence On Site Funariaceae Entosthodon kochii Federal: none Occurs in cismontane woodland. n/a Not expected: Substrate: soil. Koch's chord-moss State: none Moss suitable habitat present. Recorded from Marin, Mariposa, Mendocino, San Luis Obispo. Would have been CNPS: 1B.3 Not recorded from San Rafael quadrangle. detectable during present Other: DFG: SP survey. Grossulariaceae - Gooseberry Family Ribes victoris Federal: none Occurs in broadleafed upland forest, chaparral. Mar-Apr None: Moisture: mesic, Habitats Note: shady. Victor's gooseberry State: none Shrub (deciduous) marginally suitable Recorded from Marin, Mendocino, Napa, Solano, Sonoma. habitat present. CNPS: 4.3 Not recorded from San Rafael quadrangle. Would have been Other: DFG: SP detectable during present survey. Iridaceae - Iris Family Iris longipetala Federal: none Occurs in coastal prairie, lower montane coniferous forest, Mar-May None: meadows, seeps coast iris State: none Perennial Herb suitable habitat present. Moisture: mesic. (rhizomatous) Would have been CNPS: 4.2 Recorded from Alameda, Contra Costa, Humboldt, Marin, detectable during present Mendocino, Monterey, Napa, San Benito, San Francisco, San survey. Other: Mateo, Santa Clara, Solano, Sonoma. Not recorded from San Rafael quadrangle. Liliaceae - Lily Family Calochortus tiburonensis Federal: FT Occurs in valley and foothill grassland Mar-Jun None: Substrate: serpentine. Tiburon mariposa lily State: ST Perennial Herb no serpentinitic soils Recorded from Marin. (bulbiferous) present. CNPS: 1B.1 Not recorded from San Rafael quadrangle. Would have been Other: DFG: SP detectable during present survey.

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FAMILY Scientific Name Habitat Affinities And Blooming Time Potential For Common Name Status Reported Distribution Life Form Occurrence On Site Calochortus umbellatus Federal: none Occurs in broadleafed upland forest, chaparral, cismontane Mar-May Detected: woodland, lower montane coniferous forest, valley and foothill State: none Perennial Herb suitable habitat present. Oakland star-tulip grassland (bulbiferous) See report for details. CNPS: 4.2 Substrate: often serpentinite. Recorded from Alameda, Contra Costa, Lake, Marin, San Other: DFG: SP Mateo, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, Stanislaus. Additional distribution: presumed extirpated in Santa Cruz County. Recorded from project vicinity.

Fritillaria lanceolata var. tristulis Federal: none Occurs in coastal bluff scrub, coastal prairie, coastal scrub. Feb-May None: Recorded from Marin, San Mateo. Marin checker lily State: none Perennial Herb no suitable habitat Known from San Rafael quadrangle. (bulbiferous) present. CNPS: 1B.1 Would have been Other: DFG: SP detectable during present survey. Fritillaria liliacea Federal: none Occurs in cismontane woodland, coastal prairie, coastal scrub, Feb-Apr None: valley and foothill grassland fragrant fritillary State: none Perennial Herb marginally suitable Substrate: often serpentinite. (bulbiferous) habitat present. CNPS: 1B.2 Recorded from Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Monterey, San Would have been Benito, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Solano, Other: DFG: SP detectable during present Sonoma. survey. Not recorded from San Rafael quadrangle. Linaceae - Flax Family Hesperolinon congestum Federal: FT Occurs in chaparral, valley and foothill grassland. Apr-Jul None: Substrate: serpentinite. Marin western flax State: ST Annual Herb no serpentinitic soils Recorded from Marin, San Francisco, San Mateo. present. CNPS: 1B.1 Known from San Rafael quadrangle. Would have been Other: DFG: SP detectable during present survey.

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FAMILY Scientific Name Habitat Affinities And Blooming Time Potential For Common Name Status Reported Distribution Life Form Occurrence On Site Malvaceae - Mallow Family Sidalcea calycosa ssp. rhizomata Federal: none Occurs in marshes and swamps. Apr-Sep None: Habitats Note: freshwater, near the coast. Point Reyes checkerbloom State: none Perennial Herb no suitable habitat Recorded from Marin, Mendocino, Sonoma. (rhizomatous) present. CNPS: 1B.2 Known from San Rafael quadrangle. Would have been Other: DFG: SP detectable during present survey. Sidalcea hickmanii ssp. viridis Federal: none Occurs in chaparral May-Jun None: Substrate: serpentinite. Marin checkerbloom State: none Perennial Herb no suitable substrate Recorded from Lake, Marin, Napa, Sonoma. present. CNPS: 1B.3 Known from San Rafael quadrangle. Would have been Other: DFG: SP detectable during present survey. Montiaceae - Montia Family Calandrinia breweri Federal: none Occurs in chaparral, coastal scrub Mar-Jun Not expected: Substrate: sandy or loamy, Habitats Note: disturbed sites and Brewer's calandrinia State: none Annual Herb suitable habitat present. burns. Could appear after fires. CNPS: 4.2 Recorded from Contra Costa, Los Angeles, Marin, Mariposa, Mendocino, Monterey, Napa, San Bernardino, San Diego, San Other: DFG: SP Luis Obispo, San Mateo, Santa Barbara, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, Sonoma, Ventura. Santa Cruz Island, Santa Rosa Island. Also recorded from Baja California. Not recorded from San Rafael quadrangle. Orobanchaceae - Broomrape Family Castilleja affinis ssp. neglecta Federal: FE Occurs in valley and foothill grassland Apr-Jun None: Substrate: serpentininite. Tiburon Indian paintbrush State: ST Perennial Herb, no serpentinitic soils Recorded from Marin, Napa, Santa Clara. Hemiparasitic present. CNPS: 1B.2 Not recorded from San Rafael quadrangle. Would have been Other: DFG: SP detectable during present survey.

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FAMILY Scientific Name Habitat Affinities And Blooming Time Potential For Common Name Status Reported Distribution Life Form Occurrence On Site Chloropyron maritimum ssp. palustre Federal: none Occurs in marshes and swamps Jun-Oct None: Habitats Note: coastal salt marsh. State: none Annual Herb, no suitable habitat Point Reyes bird's-beak Recorded from Alameda, Humboldt, Marin, San Francisco, San Hemiparasitic present. CNPS: 1B.2 Mateo, Santa Clara, Sonoma. Additional distribution: presumed extirpated in Alameda, Santa Clara, and San Mateo Other: DFG: SP Would have been counties.Also recorded from Oregon. detectable during present Not recorded from San Rafael quadrangle. survey.

Kopsiopsis hookeri Federal: none Occurs in North Coast coniferous forest, redwood forest. Apr-Aug Possible: Habitats Note: on huckleberry and salal. small groundcone State: none Perennial Herb suitable habitat present. Recorded from Del Norte, Humboldt, Marin, Mendocino, (rhizomatous), See report for details. CNPS: 2.3 Trinity.Also recorded from Oregon, Washington. Parasitic Recorded from within 0.6 mi of study area. Other: DFG: SP Plantaginaceae - Plantain Family Collinsia corymbosa Federal: none Occurs in coastal dunes. Apr-Jun None: Recorded from Humboldt, Marin, Mendocino, San Francisco, round-headed Chinese houses State: none Annual Herb no suitable habitat Sonoma. present. CNPS: 1B.2 Not recorded from San Rafael quadrangle. Would have been Other: DFG: SP detectable during present survey. Collinsia multicolor Federal: none Occurs in closed-cone coniferous forest, coastal scrub Mar-May None: Substrate: sometimes serpentinite. San Francisco collinsia State: none Annual Herb marginally suitable Recorded from Marin, Monterey, San Francisco, San Mateo, habitat present. CNPS: 1B.2 Santa Clara, Santa Cruz. Would have been Not recorded from San Rafael quadrangle. Other: DFG: SP detectable during present survey.

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FAMILY Scientific Name Habitat Affinities And Blooming Time Potential For Common Name Status Reported Distribution Life Form Occurrence On Site Poaceae - Grass Family Alopecurus aequalis var. sonomensis Federal: FE Occurs in freshwater marsh, marshes and swamps, riparian May-Jul None: scrub. Sonoma alopecurus State: none Perennial Herb no suitable habitat Recorded from Marin, Sonoma. present. CNPS: 1B.1 Not recorded from San Rafael quadrangle. Would have been Other: DFG: SP detectable during present survey. Calamagrostis ophitidis Federal: none Occurs in chaparral, lower montane coniferous forest, Apr-Jul None: meadows, valley and foothill grassland, seeps serpentine reed grass State: none Perennial Herb no serpentinitic soils Substrate: serpentinite, rocky. present. CNPS: 4.3 Recorded from Lake, Marin, Napa, Sonoma. Would have been Not recorded from San Rafael quadrangle. Other: DFG: SP detectable during present survey. Elymus californicus Federal: none Occurs in broadleafed upland forest, cismontane woodland, May-Nov None: North Coast coniferous forest, riparian woodland. California bottle-brush grass State: none Perennial Herb suitable habitat present. Recorded from Marin, San Mateo, Santa Cruz, Sonoma. Would have been CNPS: 4.3 Not recorded from San Rafael quadrangle. detectable during present Other: DFG: SP survey.

Pleuropogon hooverianus Federal: none Occurs in broadleafed upland forest, meadows, seeps, North Apr-Jun None: Coast coniferous forest North Coast semaphore grass State: ST Perennial Herb suitable habitat present. Moisture: mesic, Habitats Note: open areas. (rhizomatous) Would have been CNPS: 1B.1 Recorded from Marin, Mendocino, Sonoma. detectable during present Known from San Rafael quadrangle. Other: DFG: SP survey.

Pleuropogon refractus Federal: none Occurs in lower montane coniferous forest, meadows, seeps, Mar-Aug None: north coast coniferous forest, riparian forest nodding semaphore grass State: none Perennial Herb marginally suitable Moisture: mesic. (rhizomatous) habitat present. CNPS: 4.2 Recorded from Del Norte, Humboldt, Marin, Mendocino.Also Would have been recorded from Oregon, Washington. Other: DFG: SP detectable during present Not recorded from San Rafael quadrangle. survey.

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FAMILY Scientific Name Habitat Affinities And Blooming Time Potential For Common Name Status Reported Distribution Life Form Occurrence On Site Polemoniaceae - Phlox Family Gilia capitata ssp. chamissonis Federal: none Occurs in coastal dunes, coastal scrub. Apr-Jul None: Recorded from Marin, San Francisco, Sonoma. blue coast gilia State: none Annual Herb no suitable habitat Not recorded from San Rafael quadrangle. present. CNPS: 1B.1 Would have been Other: DFG: SP detectable during present survey. Gilia capitata ssp. tomentosa Federal: none Occurs in coastal bluff scrub, valley and foothill grassland. May-Jul None: Substrate: serpentinite, rocky, outcrops. woolly-headed gilia State: none Annual Herb no suitable habitat Recorded from Marin, Sonoma. present. CNPS: 1B.1 Not recorded from San Rafael quadrangle. Would have been Other: DFG: SP detectable during present survey. Gilia millefoliata Federal: none Occurs in coastal dunes. Apr-Jul None: Recorded from Del Norte, Humboldt, Marin, Mendocino, San dark-eyed gilia State: none Annual Herb no suitable habitat Francisco, Sonoma.Also recorded from Oregon. present. CNPS: 1B.2 Not recorded from San Rafael quadrangle. Would have been Other: DFG: SP detectable during present survey. Leptosiphon acicularis Federal: none Occurs in chaparral, cismontane woodland, coastal prairie, Apr-Jul None: valley and foothill grassland. bristly linanthus State: none Annual Herb marginally suitable Recorded from Alameda, Butte, Contra Costa, Fresno, habitat present. CNPS: 4.2 Humboldt, Lake, Marin, Mendocino, Napa, San Mateo, Santa Would have been Clara, Sonoma. Additional distribution: questionable in Contra Other: DFG: SP detectable during present Costa County. survey. Not recorded from San Rafael quadrangle. Leptosiphon croceus Federal: none Occurs in coastal bluff scrub, coastal prairie. Apr-May None: Recorded from Marin, Monterey, San Mateo. Additional coast yellow linanthus State: none Annual Herb no suitable habitat distribution: presumed extirpated in Marin County. present. CNPS: 1B.1 Not recorded from San Rafael quadrangle. Would have been Other: DFG: SP detectable during present survey.

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FAMILY Scientific Name Habitat Affinities And Blooming Time Potential For Common Name Status Reported Distribution Life Form Occurrence On Site Leptosiphon grandiflorus Federal: none Occurs in coastal bluff scrub, closed-cone coniferous forest, Apr-Aug None: cismontane woodland, coastal dunes, coastal prairie, coastal State: none Annual Herb no suitable habitat large-flowered linanthus scrub, valley and foothill grassland present. CNPS: 4.2 Substrate: usually sandy. Recorded from Alameda, Kern, Madera, Marin, Merced, Other: DFG: SP Would have been Monterey, San Francisco, San Luis Obispo, San Mateo, Santa detectable during present Barbara, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, Sonoma; presumed survey. extirpated in Santa Barbara County. Not recorded from San Rafael quadrangle.

Leptosiphon rosaceus Federal: none Occurs in coastal bluff scrub. Apr-Jul None: Recorded from Marin, San Francisco, San Mateo, Sonoma. rose leptosiphon State: none Annual Herb no suitable habitat Additional distribution: presumed extirpated from San Francisco present. CNPS: 1B.1 and Sonoma. Would have been Not recorded from San Rafael quadrangle. Other: DFG: SP detectable during present survey. Navarretia leucocephala ssp. bakeri Federal: none Occurs in cismontane woodland, lower montane coniferous Apr-Jul None: forest, meadows, seeps, valley and foothill grassland, vernal Baker's navarretia State: none Annual Herb no suitable habitat pools present. CNPS: 1B.1 Moisture: mesic, Habitats Note: clay. Would have been Recorded from Colusa, Glenn, Lake, Lassen, Marin, Other: DFG: SP detectable during present Mendocino, Napa, Solano, Sonoma, Sutter, Tehama, Yolo. survey. Not recorded from San Rafael quadrangle. Navarretia rosulata Federal: none Occurs in chaparral, closed-cone coniferous forest May-Jul None: Substrate: serpentinite, rocky. Marin County navarretia State: none Annual Herb no suitable habitat Recorded from Marin, Napa. present. CNPS: 1B.2 Known from San Rafael quadrangle. Would have been Other: DFG: SP detectable during present survey.

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FAMILY Scientific Name Habitat Affinities And Blooming Time Potential For Common Name Status Reported Distribution Life Form Occurrence On Site Polemonium carneum Federal: none Occurs in coastal prairie, coastal scrub, lower montane Apr-Sep None: coniferous forest. State: none Perennial Herb marginally suitable Oregon polemonium Recorded from Alameda, Del Norte, Humboldt, Marin, San habitat present. CNPS: 2.2 Francisco, San Mateo, Siskiyou, Sonoma. Not recorded from San Rafael quadrangle. Other: Would have been detectable during present survey. Polygonaceae - Buckwheat Family Chorizanthe cuspidata var. cuspidata Federal: none Occurs in coastal bluff scrub, coastal dunes, coastal prairie, Apr-Aug None: coastal scrub San Francisco Bay spineflower State: none Annual Herb no suitable habitat Substrate: sandy. present. CNPS: 1B.2 Recorded from Alameda, Marin, San Francisco, San Mateo, Would have been Sonoma. Other: DFG: SP detectable during present Known from San Rafael quadrangle. survey. Chorizanthe valida Federal: FE Occurs in coastal prairie Jun-Aug None: Habitats Note: sandy. Sonoma spineflower State: SE Annual Herb no suitable habitat Recorded from Marin, Sonoma. present. CNPS: 1B.1 Not recorded from San Rafael quadrangle. Would have been Other: DFG: SP detectable during present survey. Eriogonum luteolum var. caninum Federal: none Occurs in chaparral, coastal prairie, valley and foothill May-Sep None: grassland, cismontane woodland Tiburon buckwheat State: none Annual Herb no serpentinitic soils Substrate: serpentinite, sandy to gravelly. present. CNPS: 1B.2 Recorded from Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Sonoma. Would have been Additional distribution: presumed extirpated from Sonoma Other: DFG: SP detectable during present County. survey. Known from San Rafael quadrangle. Polygonum marinense Federal: none Occurs in marshes and swamps. Apr-Oct None: Habitats Note: coastal salt or brackish marshes. Marin knotweed State: none Annual Herb no suitable habitat Recorded from Marin, Napa, Solano, Sonoma, Humboldt. present. CNPS: 3.1 Known from San Rafael quadrangle. Would have been Other: DFG: SP detectable during present survey.

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FAMILY Scientific Name Habitat Affinities And Blooming Time Potential For Common Name Status Reported Distribution Life Form Occurrence On Site Pottiaceae Triquetrella californica Federal: none Occurs in coastal bluff scrub, coastal scrub. n/a None: Substrate: soil. coastal triquetrella State: none Moss no suitable habitat Recorded from Contra Costa, Del Norte, Marin, Mendocino, San present. CNPS: 1B.2 Diego, San Francisco, San Mateo, Sonoma.Also recorded from Would have been Oregon. Other: DFG: SP detectable during present Not recorded from San Rafael quadrangle. survey. Pteridaceae - Fern Family Aspidotis carlotta-halliae Federal: none Occurs in chaparral, cismontane woodland, foothill woodland Jan-Dec None: Substrate: serpentine. Carlotta Hall's lace fern State: none Perennial Herb suitable substrate not Recorded from Alameda, Marin, Monterey, San Benito, San (rhizomatous) present. CNPS: 4.2 Luis Obispo. Would have been Not recorded from San Rafael quadrangle. Other: DFG: SP detectable during present survey. Ranunculaceae - Buttercup Family Ranunculus lobbii Federal: none Occurs in cismontane woodland, North Coast coniferous forest, Feb-May None: valley and foothill grassland, vernal pools Lobb's aquatic buttercup State: none Annual Herb, no suitable habitat Moisture: mesic. Aquatic present. CNPS: 4.2 Recorded from Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Mendocino, Would have been Napa, Solano, Sonoma, Santa Cruz, San Mateo.Also recorded Other: DFG: SP detectable during present from Oregon. survey. Not recorded from San Rafael quadrangle. Rhamnaceae - Buckthorn Family Ceanothus gloriosus var. exaltatus Federal: none Occurs in chaparral. Mar-Aug None: Recorded from Humboldt, Marin, Mendocino, Sonoma. glory brush State: none Shrub (evergreen) marginally suitable Not recorded from San Rafael quadrangle. habitat present. CNPS: 4.3 Would have been Other: DFG: SP detectable during present survey.

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FAMILY Scientific Name Habitat Affinities And Blooming Time Potential For Common Name Status Reported Distribution Life Form Occurrence On Site Ceanothus masonii Federal: none Occurs in chaparral Mar-Apr None: Substrate: serpentinite, rocky, Habitats Note: openings. State: SR Shrub (evergreen) marginally suitable Mason's ceanothus Recorded from Marin. habitat present. CNPS: 1B.2 Not recorded from San Rafael quadrangle. Other: DFG: SP Would have been detectable during present survey. Rosaceae - Rose Family Horkelia cuneata ssp. sericea Federal: none Occurs in chaparral (maritime), closed-cone coniferous forest, Apr-Sep None: coastal dunes, coastal scrub. Kellogg's horkelia State: none Perennial Herb marginally suitable Substrate: sandy or gravelly, Habitats Note: openings. habitat present. CNPS: 1B.1 Recorded from Alameda, Marin, Monterey, San Francisco, San Would have been Luis Obispo, San Mateo, Santa Barbara, Santa Cruz. Additional Other: DFG: SP detectable during present distribution: presumed extirpated in Alameda, Marin, and San survey. Francisco counties. Not recorded from San Rafael quadrangle. Horkelia tenuiloba Federal: none Occurs in broadleafed upland forest, chaparral, valley and May-Jul None: foothill grassland thin-lobed horkelia State: none Perennial Herb no suitable habitat mesic, sandy, Habitats Note: openings. present. CNPS: 1B.2 Recorded from Marin, Mendocino, Sonoma. Would have been Known from San Rafael quadrangle. Other: DFG: SP detectable during present survey. Scrophulariaceae - Figwort Family Triphysaria floribunda Federal: none Occurs in coastal prairie, coastal scrub, valley and foothill Apr-Jun None: grassland San Francisco owl's-clover State: none Annual Herb no suitable habitat Substrate: usually serpentinite. present. CNPS: 1B.2 Recorded from Marin, San Francisco, San Mateo. Would have been Not recorded from San Rafael quadrangle. Other: DFG: SP detectable during present survey.

TM CalBiota Page 17 Special-status Plants Evaluated For The Jun 27, 2013 Homestead Valley Land Trust

FAMILY Scientific Name Habitat Affinities And Blooming Time Potential For Common Name Status Reported Distribution Life Form Occurrence On Site Thymelaeaceae - Mezereum Family Dirca occidentalis Federal: none Occurs in broadleafed upland forest, closed-cone coniferous Jan-Apr None: forest, chaparral, cismontane woodland, North Coast coniferous western leatherwood State: none Shrub (deciduous) suitable habitat present. forest, riparian forest, riparian woodland Would have been CNPS: 1B.2 Moisture: mesic. detectable during present Recorded from Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, San Mateo, survey. Other: DFG: SP Santa Clara, Sonoma. Not recorded from San Rafael quadrangle.

TM CalBiota Page 18

APPENDIX B

EXPLANATION OF SENSITIVITY STATUS CODES

Wood Biological Consulting, Inc. – Floristic Analysis, Homestead Valley Land Trust EXPLANATION OF RARITY STATUS CODES

ENDANGERED SPECIES ACT (ESA) LISTING CODES OTHER CODES FE = federally listed as Endangered ABC: WL - American Bird Conservancy Watch List of Birds of Conservation Concern. FT = federally listed as Threatened AFS - American Fisheries Society categories of risk for marine, estuarine and diadromous fish FPE = federally proposed for listing as Endangered stocks. Codes: E=endangered; T=threatened; V=vulnerable FPT = federally proposed for listing as Threatened AUD: WL - Audubon: Watch List 2007. Bird species facing population decline and/or threats FPD = federally proposed for delisting such as loss of breeding and wintering grounds, or species with limited geographic ranges. FC = federal candidate; former Category 1 candidates R – Red List, global conservation concern; Y – Yellow List, national conservation concern. SC = species of concern; established by NMFS, effective April 15, 2004. BLM: S - Bureau of Land Management: Sensitive. Includes species under review by USFWS or NMFS, species whose numbers are declining so rapidly that federal listing may become CALIFORNIA ENDANGERED SPECIES ACT (CESA) LISTING CODES necessary, species with small and widely dispersed populations, or species inhabiting refugia or other unique habitats. SE = State-listed as Endangered CDF: S - California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection: Sensitive. Includes species that ST = State-listed as Threatened warrant special protection during timber operations. SR = State-listed as Rare DFG: FP - Calif. Dept. of Fish and Game: Fully Protected. Species protected under §§3511 SCE = State candidate for listing as Endangered (birds), 4700 (mammals), 5050 (reptiles and amphibians), and 5515 (fish) of the California SCT = State candidate for listing as Threatened Fish and Game Code. SCD = State candidate for delisting DFG: SA - Calif. Dept. of Fish and Game: Special Animal. Species included on the CDFG’s lists of special animals. GLOBAL AND STATE RANKINGS DFG: SP - Calif. Dept. of Fish and Game: Special Plant. Species included on the CDFG’s lists of G1/S1 = Critically imperiled: at high risk of extinction, extremely rare. special plants. G2/S2 = Imperiled: at high risk of extinction, restricted range, very few populations. DFG: SSC - Calif. Dept. of Fish and Game: California Species of Special Concern. G3/S3 = Vulnerable: moderate risk of extinction, restricted range, few populations. DFG: WL - Calif. Dept. of Fish and Game: (Watch List): taxa that don’t meet SSC criteria but G4/S4 = Apparently secure: uncommon, not rare, possible long-term declines. about which there is concern and additional information is needed to clarify status. G5/S5 = Secure: common, widespread, abundant. FS: S - USDA Forest Service: Sensitive. Species whose population viability is a concern, as evidenced by significant current or predicted downward trends in numbers or density, or in CALIFORNIA NATIVE PLANT SOCIETY DESIGNATIONS habitat capability that would reduce a species’ existing distribution. List 1: Plants of highest priority. FWS: BCC - U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service: Birds of Conservation Concern. Migratory and non-migratory bird species that represent the USFWS’s highest conservation priorities. List 1A: Plants presumed extinct in California. List 1B: Plants rare and endangered in California and elsewhere. FWS: BEPA - U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service: Bald Eagle Protection Act. List 2: Plants rare and endangered in California but more common elsewhere. FWS: MBTA U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service: International Migratory Bird Treaty Act. List 3: Plants for which additional data are needed – Review List. FWS: MNB - U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service: Migratory Nongame Birds of Management List 4: Plants of limited distribution – Watch List. Concern. Species of concern in the U.S. due to documented or apparent population declines, small or restricted populations, or dependence on restricted or vulnerable habitats. CNPS Threat Code Extensions NMFS: SC - National Marine Fisheries Service: Species of Concern. .1 - Seriously endangered in California WBWG - Western Bat Working Group. Priority for funding, planning or conservation actions. Codes: H=high; MH=medium-high; M=medium; LM=low-medium .2 – Fairly endangered in California .3 – Not very endangered in California Xerces - Xerces Society Red List. Codes: C=critically imperiled; I=imperiled; V=vulnerable; D=data deficient

Wood Biological Consulting. Inc.

APPENDIX C

INVENTORY OF PLANT SPECIES DETECTED IN THE STUDY AREA

Wood Biological Consulting, Inc. – Floristic Analysis, Homestead Valley Land Trust

APPENDIX D

DATABASE PRINTOUTS

Wood Biological Consulting, Inc. – Floristic Analysis, Homestead Valley Land Trust California Department of Fish and Game Natural Diversity Database Homestead Valley Land Trust Query for the San Rafael, San Geronimo, Novato, San Quentin, San Francisco North, Petaluma Point, Bolinas, and Point Bonita 7.5-minute USGS quadrangles

CDFG or Scientific Name/Common Name Element Code Federal Status State Status GRank SRank CNPS

1 Alopecurus aequalis var. sonomensis PMPOA07012 Endangered G5T1Q S1 1B.1 Sonoma alopecurus 2 Amorpha californica var. napensis PDFAB08012 G4T2 S2.2 1B.2 Napa false indigo 3 Amsinckia lunaris PDBOR01070 G2? S2? 1B.2 bent-flowered fiddleneck 4 Arctostaphylos franciscana PDERI040J3 G1 S1 1B.1 Franciscan manzanita 5 Arctostaphylos montana ssp. montana PDERI040J5 G3T2 S2.2 1B.3 Mt. Tamalpais manzanita 6 Arctostaphylos montana ssp. ravenii PDERI040J2 Endangered Endangered G3T1 S1 1B.1 Presidio manzanita 7 Arctostaphylos virgata PDERI041K0 G2 S2.2 1B.2 Marin manzanita 8 Arenaria paludicola PDCAR040L0 Endangered Endangered G1 S1 1B.1 marsh sandwort 9 Astragalus pycnostachyus var. PDFAB0F7B2 G2T2 S2.2 1B.2 pycnostachyus coastal marsh milk-vetch 10 Astragalus tener var. tener PDFAB0F8R1 G2T2 S2 1B.2 alkali milk-vetch 11 Calochortus tiburonensis PMLIL0D1C0 Threatened Threatened G1 S1 1B.1 Tiburon mariposa-lily 12 Cardamine angulata PDBRA0K010 G5 S1 2.1 seaside bittercress 13 Carex comosa PMCYP032Y0 G5 S2 2.1 bristly sedge 14 Carex lyngbyei PMCYP037Y0 G5 S2.2 2.2 Lyngbye's sedge 15 Castilleja affinis ssp. neglecta PDSCR0D013 Endangered Threatened G4G5T1 S1 1B.2 Tiburon paintbrush 16 Ceanothus masonii PDRHA04200 Rare G1 S1 1B.2 Mason's ceanothus 17 Chloropyron maritimum ssp. palustre PDSCR0J0C3 G4?T2 S2.2 1B.2 Point Reyes bird's-beak 18 Chorizanthe cuspidata var. cuspidata PDPGN04081 G2T2 S2.2 1B.2 San Francisco Bay spineflower 19 Cirsium andrewsii PDAST2E050 G2 S2.2 1B.2 Franciscan thistle 20 Cirsium hydrophilum var. vaseyi PDAST2E1G2 G2T2 S2 1B.2 Mt. Tamalpais thistle 21 Clarkia franciscana PDONA050H0 Endangered Endangered G1 S1 1B.1 Presidio clarkia 22 Coastal Brackish Marsh CTT52200CA G2 S2.1 23 Coastal Terrace Prairie CTT41100CA G2 S2.1 24 Collinsia corymbosa PDSCR0H060 G1 S1 1B.2 round-headed Chinese-houses

Commercial Version -- Dated February 01, 2013 -- Biogeographic Data Branch Page 1 Report Printed on Wednesday, February 27, 2013 Information Expires 08/01/2013 California Department of Fish and Game Natural Diversity Database Homestead Valley Land Trust Query for the San Rafael, San Geronimo, Novato, San Quentin, San Francisco North, Petaluma Point, Bolinas, and Point Bonita 7.5-minute USGS quadrangles

CDFG or Scientific Name/Common Name Element Code Federal Status State Status GRank SRank CNPS

25 Collinsia multicolor PDSCR0H0B0 G2 S2.2 1B.2 San Francisco collinsia 26 Dirca occidentalis PDTHY03010 G2G3 S2S3 1B.2 western leatherwood 27 Entosthodon kochii NBMUS2P050 G1 S1 1B.3 Koch's cord moss 28 Eriogonum luteolum var. caninum PDPGN083S1 G5T2 S2 1B.2 Tiburon buckwheat 29 Fissidens pauperculus NBMUS2W0U0 G3? S1 1B.2 minute pocket moss 30 Fritillaria lanceolata var. tristulis PMLIL0V0P1 G5T2 S2 1B.1 Marin checker lily 31 Fritillaria liliacea PMLIL0V0C0 G2 S2 1B.2 fragrant fritillary 32 Gilia capitata ssp. chamissonis PDPLM040B3 G5T2 S2.1 1B.1 blue coast gilia 33 Gilia capitata ssp. tomentosa PDPLM040B9 G5T2 S2 1B.1 woolly-headed gilia 34 Gilia millefoliata PDPLM04130 G2 S2.2 1B.2 dark-eyed gilia 35 Grindelia hirsutula var. maritima PDAST470D3 G5T1Q S1 3.2 San Francisco gumplant 36 Helianthella castanea PDAST4M020 G2 S2 1B.2 Diablo helianthella 37 Hemizonia congesta ssp. congesta PDAST4R065 G5T2T3 S2S3 1B.2 white seaside tarplant 38 Hesperolinon congestum PDLIN01060 Threatened Threatened G2 S2 1B.1 Marin western flax 39 Holocarpha macradenia PDAST4X020 Threatened Endangered G1 S1 1B.1 Santa Cruz tarplant 40 Horkelia cuneata var. sericea PDROS0W043 G4T2 S2? 1B.1 Kellogg's horkelia 41 Horkelia tenuiloba PDROS0W0E0 G2 S2.2 1B.2 thin-lobed horkelia 42 Kopsiopsis hookeri PDORO01010 G5 S1S2 2.3 small groundcone 43 Layia carnosa PDAST5N010 Endangered Endangered G2 S2 1B.1 beach layia 44 Leptosiphon croceus PDPLM09170 G1 S1 1B.1 coast yellow leptosiphon 45 Leptosiphon rosaceus PDPLM09180 G1 S1 1B.1 rose leptosiphon 46 Lessingia germanorum PDAST5S010 Endangered Endangered G1 S1 1B.1 San Francisco lessingia 47 Lessingia micradenia var. micradenia PDAST5S063 G2T1T2 S1S2 1B.2 Tamalpais lessingia

Commercial Version -- Dated February 01, 2013 -- Biogeographic Data Branch Page 2 Report Printed on Wednesday, February 27, 2013 Information Expires 08/01/2013 California Department of Fish and Game Natural Diversity Database Homestead Valley Land Trust Query for the San Rafael, San Geronimo, Novato, San Quentin, San Francisco North, Petaluma Point, Bolinas, and Point Bonita 7.5-minute USGS quadrangles

CDFG or Scientific Name/Common Name Element Code Federal Status State Status GRank SRank CNPS

48 Microseris paludosa PDAST6E0D0 G2 S2.2 1B.2 marsh microseris 49 Mielichhoferia elongata NBMUS4Q022 G4? S2 2.2 elongate copper moss 50 Navarretia rosulata PDPLM0C0Z0 G2? S2? 1B.2 Marin County navarretia 51 Northern Coastal Salt Marsh CTT52110CA G3 S3.2 52 Pentachaeta bellidiflora PDAST6X030 Endangered Endangered G1 S1 1B.1 white-rayed pentachaeta 53 Plagiobothrys chorisianus var. chorisianus PDBOR0V061 G3T2Q S2.2 1B.2 Choris' popcornflower 54 Plagiobothrys diffusus PDBOR0V080 Endangered G1Q S1 1B.1 San Francisco popcornflower 55 Plagiobothrys glaber PDBOR0V0B0 GH SH 1A hairless popcornflower 56 Pleuropogon hooverianus PMPOA4Y070 Threatened G2 S2 1B.1 North Coast semaphore grass 57 Polemonium carneum PDPLM0E050 G4 S1 2.2 Oregon polemonium 58 Polygonum marinense PDPGN0L1C0 G1Q S1.1 3.1 Marin knotweed 59 Quercus parvula var. tamalpaisensis PDFAG051Q3 G4T2 S2 1B.3 Tamalpais oak 60 Sanicula maritima PDAPI1Z0D0 Rare G2 S2.2 1B.1 adobe sanicle 61 Serpentine Bunchgrass CTT42130CA G2 S2.2 62 Sidalcea calycosa ssp. rhizomata PDMAL11012 G5T2 S2.2 1B.2 Point Reyes checkerbloom 63 Sidalcea hickmanii ssp. viridis PDMAL110A4 G3T2 S2.2? 1B.3 Marin checkerbloom 64 Silene verecunda ssp. verecunda PDCAR0U213 G5T2 S2.2 1B.2 San Francisco campion 65 Stebbinsoseris decipiens PDAST6E050 G2 S2.2 1B.2 Santa Cruz microseris 66 Streptanthus batrachopus PDBRA2G050 G1 S1 1B.3 Tamalpais jewel-flower 67 Streptanthus glandulosus ssp. niger PDBRA2G0T0 Endangered Endangered G4T1 S1 1B.1 Tiburon jewel-flower 68 Streptanthus glandulosus ssp. pulchellus PDBRA2G0J2 G4T2 S2 1B.2 Mount Tamalpais bristly jewel-flower 69 Symphyotrichum lentum PDASTE8470 G2 S2 1B.2 Suisun Marsh aster 70 Trifolium amoenum PDFAB40040 Endangered G1 S1 1B.1 showy rancheria clover 71 Trifolium hydrophilum PDFAB400R5 G2 S2 1B.2 saline clover

Commercial Version -- Dated February 01, 2013 -- Biogeographic Data Branch Page 3 Report Printed on Wednesday, February 27, 2013 Information Expires 08/01/2013 California Department of Fish and Game Natural Diversity Database Homestead Valley Land Trust Query for the San Rafael, San Geronimo, Novato, San Quentin, San Francisco North, Petaluma Point, Bolinas, and Point Bonita 7.5-minute USGS quadrangles

CDFG or Scientific Name/Common Name Element Code Federal Status State Status GRank SRank CNPS

72 Triphysaria floribunda PDSCR2T010 G2 S2.2 1B.2 San Francisco owl's-clover 73 Triquetrella californica NBMUS7S010 G1 S1 1B.2 coastal triquetrella

Commercial Version -- Dated February 01, 2013 -- Biogeographic Data Branch Page 4 Report Printed on Wednesday, February 27, 2013 Information Expires 08/01/2013

Database query of the San Rafael (467A) 3712285, San Geronimo (484C) 3812216, Novato (484D) 3812215, San Quentin (466B) 3712284, San Francisco North (466C) 3712274, Petaluma Point (483C) 3812214, Bolinas (467B) 3712286, and Point Bonita (467D) 3712275 7.5‐minute USGS quadrangles. California Native Plant Society (CNPS). 2012. Inventory of Rare and Endangered Plants (online edition, v8-01a). California Native Plant Society. Sacramento, CA. Accessed on Thursday, February 23, 2012.

Rare State Global Scientific Name Common Name Family Plant Rank Rank Rank Alopecurus aequalis var. Sonoma alopecurus Poaceae 1B.1 S1.1 G5T1Q sonomensis Amorpha californica var. Napa false indigo Fabaceae 1B.2 S2.2 G4T2 napensis Amsinckia lunaris bent‐flowered fiddleneck Boraginaceae 1B.2 S2 G2? Arabis blepharophylla coast rock cress Brassicaceae 4.3 S3.3? G3 Arctostaphylos franciscana Franciscan manzanita Ericaceae 1B.1 S1 G1 Arctostaphylos montana ssp. Mt. Tamalpais manzanita Ericaceae 1B.3 S2.2 G3T2 montana Arctostaphylos montana ssp. Presidio manzanita Ericaceae 1B.1 S1 G3T1 ravenii Arctostaphylos virgata Marin manzanita Ericaceae 1B.2 S2.2 G2 Arenaria paludicola marsh sandwort Caryophyllaceae 1B.1 S1 G1 Aspidotis carlotta‐halliae Carlotta Hallʹs lace fern Pteridaceae 4.2 S3.2 G3 Astragalus breweri Brewerʹs milk‐vetch Fabaceae 4.2 S3.2 G3 Astragalus nuttallii var. ocean bluff milk‐vetch Fabaceae 4.2 S3.2 G3T3 nuttallii Astragalus pycnostachyus coastal marsh milk‐vetch Fabaceae 1B.2 S2.2 G2T2 var. pycnostachyus Astragalus tener var. tener alkali milk‐vetch Fabaceae 1B.2 S2 G2T2 Calamagrostis ophitidis serpentine reed grass Poaceae 4.3 S3.3 G3

Calandrinia breweri Brewerʹs calandrinia Montiaceae 4.2 S3.2? G4 Calochortus tiburonensis Tiburon mariposa lily Liliaceae 1B.1 S1.2 G1 Calochortus umbellatus Oakland star‐tulip Liliaceae 4.2 S3.2 G3 Carex comosa bristly sedge Cyperaceae 2.1 S2 G5 Carex lyngbyei Lyngbyeʹs sedge Cyperaceae 2.2 S2.2 G5 Castilleja affinis ssp. neglecta Tiburon paintbrush Orobanchaceae 1B.2 S1 G4G5T1 Ceanothus gloriosus var. glory brush Rhamnaceae 4.3 S3.3 G3G4T3 exaltatus Ceanothus masonii Masonʹs ceanothus Rhamnaceae 1B.2 S1.3 G1 Chloropyron maritimum ssp. Point Reyes birdʹs‐beak Orobanchaceae 1B.2 S2.2 G4?T2 palustre Chorizanthe cuspidata var. San Francisco Bay Polygonaceae 1B.2 S2.2 G2T2 cuspidata spineflower Chorizanthe valida Sonoma spineflower Polygonaceae 1B.1 S1 G1 Cirsium andrewsii Franciscan thistle Asteraceae 1B.2 S2.2 G2 Cirsium hydrophilum var. Mt. Tamalpais thistle Asteraceae 1B.2 S1.2 G1T1 vaseyi Cistanthe maritima seaside cistanthe Montiaceae 4.2 S3.2 G3G4 Clarkia franciscana Presidio clarkia Onagraceae 1B.1 S1 G1 round‐headed Chinese‐ Collinsia corymbosa Plantaginaceae 1B.2 S1.2 G1 houses Collinsia multicolor San Francisco collinsia Plantaginaceae 1B.2 S2.2 G2 Dirca occidentalis western leatherwood Thymelaeaceae 1B.2 S2S3 G2G3 Elymus californicus California bottle‐brush grass Poaceae 4.3 S3.3 G3 Entosthodon kochii Kochʹs cord moss Funariaceae 1B.3 S1 G1 Eriogonum luteolum var. Tiburon buckwheat Polygonaceae 1B.2 S2 G5T2 caninum Eriophorum gracile slender cottongrass Cyperaceae 4.3 S3.3 G5 Erysimum franciscanum San Francisco wallflower Brassicaceae 4.2 S3.2 G3 Fissidens pauperculus minute pocket moss Fissidentaceae 1B.2 S1 G1G2 Fritillaria lanceolata var. Marin checker lily Liliaceae 1B.1 S1.1 G5T1 tristulis Fritillaria liliacea fragrant fritillary Liliaceae 1B.2 S2 G2 Gilia capitata ssp. blue coast gilia Polemoniaceae 1B.1 S2.1 G5T2 chamissonis Gilia capitata ssp. tomentosa woolly‐headed gilia Polemoniaceae 1B.1 S1.1 G5T1 Gilia millefoliata dark‐eyed gilia Polemoniaceae 1B.2 S2.2 G2

Grindelia hirsutula var. San Francisco gumplant Asteraceae 3.2 S1 G5T1Q maritima Helianthella castanea Diablo helianthella Asteraceae 1B.2 S2 G2 Hemizonia congesta ssp. white seaside tarplant Asteraceae 1B.2 S2S3 G5T2T3 congesta Hesperolinon congestum Marin western flax Linaceae 1B.1 S2.1 G2 Holocarpha macradenia Santa Cruz tarplant Asteraceae 1B.1 S1.1 G1 Horkelia cuneata ssp. sericea Kelloggʹs horkelia Rosaceae 1B.1 S1.1 G4T1 Horkelia tenuiloba thin‐lobed horkelia Rosaceae 1B.2 S2.2 G2 Iris longipetala coast iris Iridaceae 4.2 S3.2 G3 Kopsiopsis hookeri small groundcone Orobanchaceae 2.3 S1S2 G5 Layia carnosa beach layia Asteraceae 1B.1 S2 G2 Leptosiphon acicularis bristly leptosiphon Polemoniaceae 4.2 S3.2 G3 Leptosiphon croceus coast yellow leptosiphon Polemoniaceae 1B.1 S1.1 G1 Leptosiphon grandiflorus large‐flowered leptosiphon Polemoniaceae 4.2 S3.2 G3 Leptosiphon rosaceus rose leptosiphon Polemoniaceae 1B.1 S1.1 G1 Lessingia germanorum San Francisco lessingia Asteraceae 1B.1 S1 G1 Lessingia hololeuca woolly‐headed lessingia Asteraceae 3 S3 G3 Lessingia micradenia var. Tamalpais lessingia Asteraceae 1B.2 S1.1 G2T1 micradenia Micropus amphibolus Mt. Diablo cottonweed Asteraceae 3.2 S3.2? G3 Microseris paludosa marsh microseris Asteraceae 1B.2 S2.2 G2 Mielichhoferia elongata elongate copper moss Mniaceae 2.2 S2 G4? Navarretia leucocephala ssp. Bakerʹs navarretia Polemoniaceae 1B.1 S2 G4T2 bakeri Navarretia rosulata Marin County navarretia Polemoniaceae 1B.2 S2? G2? Pentachaeta bellidiflora white‐rayed pentachaeta Asteraceae 1B.1 S1 G1 Perideridia gairdneri ssp. Gairdnerʹs yampah Apiaceae 4.2 S3.2 G5T3 gairdneri Plagiobothrys chorisianus Chorisʹ popcorn‐flower Boraginaceae 1B.2 S2.2 G3T2Q var. chorisianus San Francisco popcorn‐ Plagiobothrys diffusus Boraginaceae 1B.1 S1.1 G1Q flower Plagiobothrys glaber hairless popcorn‐flower Boraginaceae 1A SH GH North Coast semaphore Pleuropogon hooverianus Poaceae 1B.1 S1.1 G1 grass Pleuropogon refractus nodding semaphore grass Poaceae 4.2 S3.2? G4

Polemonium carneum Oregon polemonium Polemoniaceae 2.2 S1 G4 Polygonum marinense Marin knotweed Polygonaceae 3.1 S1.1 G1Q Quercus parvula var. Tamalpais oak Fagaceae 1B.3 S1.3 G4T1 tamalpaisensis Ranunculus lobbii Lobbʹs aquatic buttercup Ranunculaceae 4.2 S3.2 G4 Ribes victoris Victorʹs gooseberry Grossulariaceae 4.3 S3.3 G3 Sanicula maritima adobe sanicle Apiaceae 1B.1 S2.2 G2 Sidalcea calycosa ssp. Point Reyes checkerbloom Malvaceae 1B.2 S2.2 G5T2 rhizomata Sidalcea hickmanii ssp. Marin checkerbloom Malvaceae 1B.3 S2.2? G3T2 viridis Silene verecunda ssp. San Francisco campion Caryophyllaceae 1B.2 S2.2 G5T2 verecunda Stebbinsoseris decipiens Santa Cruz microseris Asteraceae 1B.2 S2.2 G2 Streptanthus batrachopus Tamalpais jewel‐flower Brassicaceae 1B.3 S1.2 G1 Streptanthus glandulosus Tiburon jewel‐flower Brassicaceae 1B.1 S1 G4T1 ssp. niger Streptanthus glandulosus Mount Tamalpais bristly Brassicaceae 1B.2 S1.2 G4T1 ssp. pulchellus jewel‐flower Symphyotrichum lentum Suisun Marsh aster Asteraceae 1B.2 S2 G2 Trifolium amoenum two‐fork clover Fabaceae 1B.1 S1 G1 Trifolium hydrophilum saline clover Fabaceae 1B.2 S2 G2 Triphysaria floribunda San Francisco owlʹs‐clover Orobanchaceae 1B.2 S2.2 G2 Triquetrella californica coastal triquetrella Pottiaceae 1B.2 S1 G1

United States Department of the Interior FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE

Sacramento Fish and Wildlife Office 2800 Cottage Way, Room W-2605 Sacramento, California 95825

February 23, 2012

Document Number: 120223103247

Mr. Michael Wood Wood Biolgoical Consulting 65 Alta Hill Way Walnut Creek, CA 94595

Subject: Species List for Homestead Valley Land Trust

Dear: Mr. Wood

We are sending this official species list in response to your February 23, 2012 request for information about endangered and threatened species. The list covers the California counties and/or U.S. Geological Survey 7½ minute quad or quads you requested.

Our database was developed primarily to assist Federal agencies that are consulting with us. Therefore, our lists include all of the sensitive species that have been found in a certain area and also ones that may be affected by projects in the area. For example, a fish may be on the list for a quad if it lives somewhere downstream from that quad. Birds are included even if they only migrate through an area. In other words, we include all of the species we want people to consider when they do something that affects the environment.

Please read Important Information About Your Species List (below). It explains how we made the list and describes your responsibilities under the Endangered Species Act.

Our database is constantly updated as species are proposed, listed and delisted. If you address proposed and candidate species in your planning, this should not be a problem. However, we recommend that you get an updated list every 90 days. That would be May 23, 2012.

Please contact us if your project may affect endangered or threatened species or if you have any questions about the attached list or your responsibilities under the Endangered Species Act. A list of Endangered Species Program contacts can be found here.

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U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service

Sacramento Fish & Wildlife Office

Federal Endangered and Threatened Species that Occur in or may be Affected by Projects in the Counties and/or U.S.G.S. 7 1/2 Minute Quads you requested

Document Number: 120223103247

Database Last Updated: September 18, 2011

Quad Lists

Listed Species

Invertebrates

z Haliotes cracherodii { black abalone (E) (NMFS)

z Haliotes sorenseni { white abalone (E) (NMFS)

z Icaricia icarioides missionensis { mission blue butterfly (E)

z Speyeria callippe callippe { callippe silverspot butterfly (E)

z Speyeria zerene myrtleae { Myrtle's silverspot butterfly (E)

z Syncaris pacifica { California freshwater shrimp (E)

Fish

z Acipenser medirostris { green sturgeon (T) (NMFS)

z Eucyclogobius newberryi { critical habitat, tidewater goby (X) { tidewater goby (E)

z Hypomesus transpacificus { delta smelt (T)

z Oncorhynchus kisutch { coho salmon - central CA coast (E) (NMFS) { Critical habitat, coho salmon - central CA coast (X) (NMFS)

z Oncorhynchus mykiss { Central California Coastal steelhead (T) (NMFS) { Central Valley steelhead (T) (NMFS) { Critical habitat, Central California coastal steelhead (X) (NMFS) { Critical habitat, Central Valley steelhead (X) (NMFS)

z Oncorhynchus tshawytscha { California coastal chinook salmon (T) (NMFS) { Central Valley spring-run chinook salmon (T) (NMFS) { Critical habitat, winter-run chinook salmon (X) (NMFS) { winter-run chinook salmon, Sacramento River (E) (NMFS)

Amphibians

z Rana draytonii { California red-legged frog (T)

Reptiles

z Caretta caretta { loggerhead turtle (T) (NMFS)

z Chelonia mydas (incl. agassizi) { green turtle (T) (NMFS)

z Dermochelys coriacea { leatherback turtle (E) (NMFS)

z Lepidochelys olivacea { olive (=Pacific) ridley sea turtle (T) (NMFS) Birds

z Brachyramphus marmoratus { Critical habitat, marbled murrelet (X) { marbled murrelet (T)

z Charadrius alexandrinus nivosus { western snowy plover (T)

z Diomedea albatrus { short-tailed albatross (E)

z Pelecanus occidentalis californicus { California brown pelican (E)

z Rallus longirostris obsoletus { California clapper rail (E)

z Sternula antillarum (=Sterna, =albifrons) browni { California least tern (E)

z Strix occidentalis caurina { northern spotted owl (T)

Mammals

z Arctocephalus townsendi { Guadalupe fur seal (T) (NMFS)

z Balaenoptera borealis { sei whale (E) (NMFS)

z Balaenoptera musculus { blue whale (E) (NMFS)

z Balaenoptera physalus { finback (=fin) whale (E) (NMFS)

z Enhydra lutris nereis { southern sea otter (T)

z Eubalaena (=Balaena) glacialis { right whale (E) (NMFS)

z Eumetopias jubatus { Critical Habitat, Steller (=northern) sea-lion (X) (NMFS) { Steller (=northern) sea-lion (T) (NMFS) z Physeter catodon (=macrocephalus) { sperm whale (E) (NMFS)

z Reithrodontomys raviventris { salt marsh harvest mouse (E)

Plants

z Alopecurus aequalis var. sonomensis { Sonoma alopecurus (E)

z Arctostaphylos hookeri ssp. ravenii { Presidio (=Raven's) manzanita (E)

z Calochortus tiburonensis { Tiburon mariposa lily (T)

z Castilleja affinis ssp. neglecta { Tiburon paintbrush (E)

z Clarkia franciscana { Presidio clarkia (E)

z Hesperolinon congestum { Marin dwarf-flax (=western flax) (T)

z Lessingia germanorum { San Francisco lessingia (E)

z Streptanthus niger { Tiburon jewelflower (E)

Quads Containing Listed, Proposed or Candidate Species:

SAN QUENTIN (466B)

SAN FRANCISCO NORTH (466C)

SAN RAFAEL (467A)

BOLINAS (467B)

POINT BONITA (467D)

PETALUMA POINT (483C)

SAN GERONIMO (484C) NOVATO (484D)

County Lists

No county species lists requested.

Key:

z (E) Endangered - Listed as being in danger of extinction. z (T) Threatened - Listed as likely to become endangered within the foreseeable future. z (P) Proposed - Officially proposed in the Federal Register for listing as endangered or threatened. z (NMFS) Species under the Jurisdiction of the National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration Fisheries Service. Consult with them directly about these species. z Critical Habitat - Area essential to the conservation of a species. z (PX) Proposed Critical Habitat - The species is already listed. Critical habitat is being proposed for it. z (C) Candidate - Candidate to become a proposed species. z (V) Vacated by a court order. Not currently in effect. Being reviewed by the Service. z (X) Critical Habitat designated for this species

Important Information About Your Species List

How We Make Species Lists

We store information about endangered and threatened species lists by U.S. Geological Survey 7½ minute quads. The United States is divided into these quads, which are about the size of San Francisco.

The animals on your species list are ones that occur within, or may be affected by projects within, the quads covered by the list.

z Fish and other aquatic species appear on your list if they are in the same watershed as your quad or if water use in your quad might affect them. z Amphibians will be on the list for a quad or county if pesticides applied in that area may be carried to their habitat by air currents. z Birds are shown regardless of whether they are resident or migratory. Relevant birds on the county list should be considered regardless of whether they appear on a quad list.

Plants

Any plants on your list are ones that have actually been observed in the area covered by the list. Plants may exist in an area without ever having been detected there. You can find out what's in the surrounding quads through the California Native Plant Society's online Inventory of Rare and Endangered Plants.

Surveying

Some of the species on your list may not be affected by your project. A trained biologist and/or botanist, familiar with the habitat requirements of the species on your list, should determine whether they or habitats suitable for them may be affected by your project. We recommend that your surveys include any proposed and candidate species on your list. See our Protocol and Recovery Permits pages.

For plant surveys, we recommend using the Guidelines for Conducting and Reporting Botanical Inventories. The results of your surveys should be published in any environmental documents prepared for your project.

Your Responsibilities Under the Endangered Species Act

All animals identified as listed above are fully protected under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended. Section 9 of the Act and its implementing regulations prohibit the take of a federally listed wildlife species. Take is defined by the Act as "to harass, harm, pursue, hunt, shoot, wound, kill, trap, capture, or collect" any such animal.

Take may include significant habitat modification or degradation where it actually kills or injures wildlife by significantly impairing essential behavioral patterns, including breeding, feeding, or shelter (50 CFR §17.3).

Take incidental to an otherwise lawful activity may be authorized by one of two procedures:

z If a Federal agency is involved with the permitting, funding, or carrying out of a project that may result in take, then that agency must engage in a formal consultation with the Service. z During formal consultation, the Federal agency, the applicant and the Service work together to avoid or minimize the impact on listed species and their habitat. Such consultation would result in a biological opinion by the Service addressing the anticipated effect of the project on listed and proposed species. The opinion may authorize a limited level of incidental take. z If no Federal agency is involved with the project, and federally listed species may be taken as part of the project, then you, the applicant, should apply for an incidental take permit. The Service may issue such a permit if you submit a satisfactory conservation plan for the species that would be affected by your project. z Should your survey determine that federally listed or proposed species occur in the area and are likely to be affected by the project, we recommend that you work with this office and the California Department of Fish and Game to develop a plan that minimizes the project's direct and indirect impacts to listed species and compensates for project-related loss of habitat. You should include the plan in any environmental documents you file.

Critical Habitat

When a species is listed as endangered or threatened, areas of habitat considered essential to its conservation may be designated as critical habitat. These areas may require special management considerations or protection. They provide needed space for growth and normal behavior; food, water, air, light, other nutritional or physiological requirements; cover or shelter; and sites for breeding, reproduction, rearing of offspring, germination or seed dispersal.

Although critical habitat may be designated on private or State lands, activities on these lands are not restricted unless there is Federal involvement in the activities or direct harm to listed wildlife. If any species has proposed or designated critical habitat within a quad, there will be a separate line for this on the species list. Boundary descriptions of the critical habitat may be found in the Federal Register. The information is also reprinted in the Code of Federal Regulations (50 CFR 17.95). See our Map Room page.

Candidate Species

We recommend that you address impacts to candidate species. We put plants and animals on our candidate list when we have enough scientific information to eventually propose them for listing as threatened or endangered. By considering these species early in your planning process you may be able to avoid the problems that could develop if one of these candidates was listed before the end of your project.

Species of Concern

The Sacramento Fish & Wildlife Office no longer maintains a list of species of concern. However, various other agencies and organizations maintain lists of at-risk species. These lists provide essential information for land management planning and conservation efforts. More info

Wetlands

If your project will impact wetlands, riparian habitat, or other jurisdictional waters as defined by section 404 of the Clean Water Act and/or section 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act, you will need to obtain a permit from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Impacts to wetland habitats require site specific mitigation and monitoring. For questions regarding wetlands, please contact Mark Littlefield of this office at (916) 414- 6520.

Updates

B.1 General References on Vegetation Management Websites California Biodiversity Council California Native Grassland Association http://biodiversity.ca.gov/ http://www.cnga.org/

California Society for Ecological California State Parks Restoration http://www.parks.ca.gov/ and http://www.sercal.org/ http://resources.ca.gov/lester.html

National Park Service ‐ Restoration Marin Municipal Water District, Resource Projects around the Bay Area Management Information http://www.nps.gov/goga/naturescience/res http://www.marinwater.org/controller?action=menucli toration‐projects.htm ck&id=247

Point Reyes National Seashore Wetland Regional Monitoring Program http://www.nps.gov/pore/ http://www.wrmp.org/

B.2 Special Status Species Information Websites California Department of Fish and Game U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service http://www.dfg.ca.gov/hcpb/species/species.shtml http://ecos.fws.gov/ecos/index.do

California Native Plant Society CNPS‐Marin Chapter www.cnps.org/ http://www.marin.edu/cnps/

Audubon Society of California Marin Audubon Society http://www.audubon‐ http://www.marinaudubon.org/ ca.org/california_birding.htm

B.3 Invasive Plant Resources Books Weed Worker’s Handbook: A Guide to Invasive Plants of California Techniques for Removing Bay Area Wildlands. 2000. Carla Bossard, John M. Invasive Plants. The Watershed Project Randall, and Mark C. Hoshovsky. and California Invasive Plant Council. University of California Press, Berkeley 2004. Available online at: http://www.cal‐ and Los Angeles, CA. Available online at: ipc.org/ww_handbook/ http://groups.ucanr.org/ceppc/Invasive_ Plants_of_California's_Wildlands

Websites The Nature Conservancy Invasive California Invasive Plant Council (Cal‐IPC) Plant Resources website website http://tncweeds.ucdavis.edu/handbook. http://www.cal‐ipc.org/ html

Bay Area Early Detection Network Global Invasive Species Database (BAEDN) website http://www.invasivespecies.net/database/species/e http://baedn.org/ cology.asp?si=563&fr=1&sts=sss (888) 427‐4447 email: [email protected] Marin County Agriculture Marin/Sonoma Weed Management Area’s Commissioner’s website website http://www.co.marin.ca.us/depts/AG/ http://www.marinsonomaweedmanagement.org/ Main’s /index.cfm U.C. Cooperative Extension Weed Research and Information Center http://wric.ucdavis.edu/information/inf ormation.html Publications California Department of Food and Weed Prevention and Management Guidelines for Agriculture's "Noxious Times" Public Lands, U.S. newsletters Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land http://www.cdfa.ca.gov/PHPPS/ipc/nox Management ioustimes/noxtimes_archives.html http://www.cdfa.ca.gov/PHPPS/ipc/noxioustimes/n oxtimes_archives.htm U.S. Contacts Marin County IPM Coordinator Agricultural Commissioner's Office Ed Hulme Parks Superintendent Marin County Agricultural Department Parks Department (415) 499‐6531 1682 Novato Blvd., Suite 150‐A Novato, CA 94947‐7021 ph (415) 499‐6700 fax (415) 499‐7543

B.4 Species Identification Guidebooks Books Peterson’s Field Guide: Pacific States Jepson Manual: Higher Plants of California. Larry Wildflowers. Niehaus and Ripper. 1976. Hickman, Editor. 1993. University of California Press. Houghton Mifflin Company. Pacific Coast Trees. McMinn and Maino. Birds of North America. National Geographic. 1951. University of California Press.

Peterson Field Guides: Western Birds. Peterson Field Guides: Insects. Christopher Leahy. 1987. Roger T. Peterson. 1990. Houghton Mifflin. Houghton Mifflin Company.

California Insects. Jerry A. Powell. 1981 Peterson Field Guides: Western Amphibians and University of California Press. Reptiles. Robert C. Stebbins. 2003. Houghton Mifflin Company.

Bugs of Northern California. John Acorn. 2002. Lone Pine.

Websites Calflora website (pictorial index to most CalIPC Website (contains pictures of invasive plants) plants and animals in California) http://www.cal‐ipc.org http://www.calflora.org/species/index.html

Jepson Manual Online National Park Service Online Identification Guide http://ucjeps.berkeley.edu/interchange.html (common plants and animals in local National Parks) (plants) http://www.nps.gov/goga/parklabs/library/wildlifeguide

B.5 Plant Disease and Pest Information Websites California Oak Mortality Task Force California Department of Food and www.suddenoakdeath.org Agriculture http://www.cdfa.ca.gov/phpps/pe/sod_surv ey/

California Forest Pest Council c/o Wilbur‐Ellis Pitch Canker Task Force Company http://frap.cdf.ca.gov/pitch_canker/ http://www.caforestpestcouncil.org

UC Cooperative Extension Tree Root Rot UC IPM Pitch Canker Management Guidelines Fungus Detection and Control. http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn74107. http://danr.ucop.edu/ihrmp/oak16.htm html

B.6 Forestry and Fire Protection Websites California Department of Forestry California Oak Foundation http://frap.cdf.ca.gov/ www.californiaoaks.org

UC Berkeley Forestry Department Pitch Canker Task Force http://forestry.berkeley.edu/lectures/wm http://frap.cdf.ca.gov/pitch_canker/ main3.html

US Forest Service FireSafe Marin http://www.fs.fed.us/psw/ http://www.firesafemarin.org/

FireSafe Landscaping East Bay Municipal Utilities, Document entitled "Firescape: Landscaping to Reduce Fire Hazard order from web site at: http://www.ebmud.com/conserving_&_rec ycling/conservation_ publications/default.htm

Defensible Space FireSafe Marin‐Defensible Space Homeowner’s Brochures: Information http://www.xmrfire.org/mrn/Prevention%20Documents/Mar http://www.firesafemarin.org/defensible.h in%20landscape%20brochur eREV2. tm http://www.kwpoa.com/_documents/Marinsafepractices.pdf

B.7 Integrated Pest Management Information Websites Marin County IPM Coordinator U.C. Davis Integrated Pest Management Ed Hulme Parks Superintendent http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/ Parks Department ‐ (415) 499‐6531 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency National Integrated Pest Management http://www.epa.gov/pesticides/ipm/ Center http://www.ippc.orst.edu/DIR/ UC Cooperative Extension Marin County http://cemarin.ucdavis.edu

B.8 Native Plant Materials Websites California Native Plant Link Exchange U.C. Davis Integrated Pest Management http://www.cnplx.info/ http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/

Local Native Plant Nurseries‐ Rooted Plant Stock Central Coast Wilds Cornflower Farms 114 Liberty Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95060 P.O. Box 896, Elk Grove, CA 95759 (831) 459‐0655 (916) 689‐1015 http://www.centralcoastwilds.com/ http://www.cornflowerfarms.com

Native Here Nursery North Coast Native Nursery 101 Golf Course Dr., Tilden Park, P.O. Box 744, Petaluma, CA 94953 Berkeley, CA 94708 (707) 769‐1213 (510) 549‐0211 www.northcoastnativenursery.com http://www.ebcnps.org/nativehere.html

Local Native Plant Nurseries‐ Seed Hedgerow Farms Larner Seeds 21740 County Road 88, Winters, CA 95694 P.O. Box 407, Bolinas, CA 94924 (530) 662‐6847 www.larnerseeds.com www.hedgerowfarms.com

North Coast Native Nursery Pacific Coast Seed, Inc PO Box 7, Petaluma, CA 94953 6144A Industrial Way, Livermore, CA (707) 769‐1213 94550 www.northcoastnativenursery.com (925) 373‐4417 www.pcseed.com

Yerba Buena Nursery 19500 Skyline Blvd., Woodside, CA 94062 (650) 851‐1668 http://www.yerbabuenanursery.com/

B.9 Suggested Planting Lists for Coast Live Oak Woodland and Native Perennial Grassland Coast Live Oak Woodland Plant List Approx. # of plants per Scientific Name Common Name acre Quercus agrifolia Coast Live Oak 195 Aesculus californica California buckeye 10 Arbutus menziesii Madrone 20 Corylus cornuta ssp. californica California hazelnut 25 Iris douglasiana Douglas iris 25 Frangula californica Coffeeberry 10 Heteromeles arbutifolia Toyon 30 Holodiscus discolor Ocean spray 10 Lonicera hispidula var. vacillans California honeysuckle 10 Symphoricarpos albus var. laevigatus Snowberry 10

Perennial Native Grassland Seed Mixture Approx. lbs. of seed per Scientific Name Common Name acre Achillea millefolium Yarrow 1 Anaphalis margaritacea Pearly everlasting 2 Bromus carinatus California brome 10 Elymus glaucus ssp. glaucus Blue wildrye 5 Eschscholtzia californica California poppy 1 Festuca californica California fescue 5 Festuca rubra Red fescue 8 Hordeum brachyantherum Meadow barley 5 Koeleria macrantha Junegrass 2 Melica californica Western melic 5 Nassella pulchra Purple needle grass 15 Sidalcea malviflora Checkerbloom 1

Appendix C. Homestead Valley Land Trust 10 Year Plan