Natural Environment Study

Home , Achyronychia, Atrichoseris, Condea emoryi, Coryphantha alversonii, Deserts of California, Eriastrum eremicum

Interstate 10/Avenue 50 New Interchange NES

Riverside County, CA

District 08-RIV-10- PM R62.3/R63.7

EA Number 08-452100

Caltrans Project Number 0800000721

November 2016

Summary Summary

This Natural Environment Study (NES) has been prepared to support the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) documentation for the proposed Interstate (I) 10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project (hereinafter referred to as the proposed project) located in the City of Coachella in Riverside County, California. The proposed project is the creation of a new interchange along I-10 east of the existing Dillon Road interchange (Postmile [PM] R62.3 to R63.7). This NES includes information on the biological resources in the Biological Study Area (BSA) for the proposed project and meets the State of California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) NES guidelines (Caltrans 2009). This information has been reported in accordance with accepted scientific and technical standards that are consistent with the requirements of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), and Caltrans.

The BSA for the proposed project includes the proposed impact area plus a 500-foot buffer area. The following vegetation types and other areas occur in the BSA: desert annual grassland, white bursage scrub, cheesebush scrub, allscale scrub, creosote bush scrub, creosote bush – white bur sage scrub, Mojave desert wash scrub, wand holdback (unique stand), disturbed/unvegetated, and developed. The BSA is currently open space and provides moderate to high quality desert scrub habitat for wildlife species. Alluvial washes, including Smokey Gulch, and culverts passing beneath the I-10 in the BSA currently provide wildlife crossings that connect open space located north and south of I-10.

Two Build Alternatives are evaluated in this NES. Direct permanent and temporary impacts of Alternative 3 and Alternative 4 are listed in Table ES-1 and Table ES-2. Alternative 3 would impact approximately 96.61 acres (13.48 acres permanent, 83.13 acres temporary) of desert scrub vegetation and approximately 17.48 acres of other areas (disturbed/unvegetated and developed). Alternative 4 would impact approximately 96.86 acres (12.80 acres permanent, 84.06 acres temporary) of desert scrub vegetation and approximately 17.48 acres of other areas (disturbed/unvegetated and developed). One special status vegetation type—Mojave desert wash scrub— would be impacted; Alternative 3 would impact 5.50 acres and Alternative 4 would impact 5.53 acres. Both Alternatives 3 and 4 would impact 1.18 acre of RWQCB/CDFW waters and 0.21 acre of RWQCB/CDFW isolated waters; waters do not qualify to be under the jurisdiction of the USACE. Mitigation for impacts on Mojave desert wash scrub and RWQCB/CDFW jurisdiction will include obtaining

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project v Summary appropriate permits from the Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB), and the CDFW. Potential mitigation options may include (1) removal of exotic species; (2) payment to a mitigation bank or regional riparian enhancement program; and/or (3) restoration of Mojave desert wash scrub either on site or off site at a ratio of no less than 1:1, determined through consultation with the RWQCB, and the CDFW.

Table ES-1 Vegetation Types and Other Areas That Would Be Impacted by the Alternative 3

Permanent Temporary Total Project Project Project Vegetation Type and Other Existing Impact Impact Impact Areas (Acres) (Acres) (Acres) (Acres) Desert annual grassland 106.93 6.36 35.30 41.66 White bursage scrub 5.75 0.40 2.72 3.12 Cheesebush scrub 24.74 0.20 2.05 2.25 Allscale Scrub 32.05 1.98 20.12 22.10 Creosote bush scrub 75.93 0.77 9.82 10.59 Creosote bush – white bur sage 123.70 2.48 8.91 11.39 scrub Mojave desert wash scrub 47.10 1.29 4.21 5.50 Wand holdback (unique stand) 6.10 0.00 0.00 0.00 Disturbed/unvegetated 16.43 0.38 3.68 4.06 Developed 20.22 3.55 9.88 13.43 Total 458.95 17.41 96.69 114.10

Table ES-2 Vegetation Types and Other Areas That Would Be Impacted by the Alternative 4

Permanent Temporary Total Project Project Project Vegetation Type and Other Existing Impact Impact Impact Areas (Acres) (Acres) (Acres) (Acres) Desert annual grassland 106.93 5.69 36.01 41.70 White bursage scrub 5.75 0.40 2.72 3.12 Cheesebush scrub 24.74 0.20 2.06 2.26 Allscale scrub 32.05 1.95 20.16 22.11 Creosote bush scrub 75.93 0.77 9.82 10.59 Creosote bush – white bur sage 123.70 2.51 9.04 11.55 scrub Mojave desert wash scrub 47.10 1.28 4.25 5.53 Wand holdback (unique stand) 6.10 0.00 0.00 0.00 Disturbed/unvegetated 16.43 0.39 3.66 4.05 Developed 20.22 2.96 10.47 13.43 Total 458.95 16.15 98.19 114.34

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project vi Summary

The BSA for the project is located within the Coachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (CV MSHCP) area, but is not located within a Conservation Area. The CV MSHCP provides authorization under the Federal and California Endangered Species Acts that allows the “take” of Covered Species, including loss of their habitat, if the project is consistent with MSHCP requirements. As participating jurisdictions in the CV MSHCP, Caltrans will be required to comply with all applicable reserve assembly measures; however, because the project is not located within or adjacent to a Conservation Area, no avoidance, minimization, and mitigation measures would be applicable other than compliance with the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA); and compliance with the California Fish and Game Code.

Focused surveys were previously conducted in 2001 and 2006 for several special status plant and wildlife species; the results of these surveys are incorporated into this report. Vegetation mapping was updated in 2013.

Special Status Plant Species: Six individuals of Mecca-aster (Xylorhiza cognate) were observed in the BSA during spring botanical surveys in 2006. This location would be impacted by both alternatives. However, Mecca-aster is a species Covered under the CV MSHCP; therefore, no mitigation is required. No other special status plant species are expected to occur in the BSA.

Special Status Reptiles: Sign of desert tortoise (Gopherus agassizii) was observed outside the outermost Zone of Influence (ZOI) transect during the 2001 focused surveys and a potential burrow was observed during the 2006 focused surveys. The desert tortoise is considered absent from the BSA at this time because they were not observed within the ZOI. Additionally, desert tortoise is a species Covered under the CV MSHCP; therefore, no mitigation would be required. No flat-tailed horned lizard (Phrynosoma mcallii) were observed in the BSA during the 2001 or 2006 focused surveys.

Special Status Bird Species: Five active burrowing owl (Athene cunicularia) burrows were observed in the BSA; both alternatives would impact one burrow location. It should be noted that active burrow locations are expected to change with time. A pre-construction survey would be required to detect any active burrows at the time of construction. Sections 3503, 3503.5, and 3513 of the California Fish and Game Code prohibit impacts on any active raptor nest. This includes the burrowing owl, as well as the prairie falcon (Falco mexicanus) and any common raptor species such as the American kestrel (Falco sparverius). If vegetation clearing would occur during the raptor nesting season (February 1 to June 30; February 1 to August 31 for

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project vii Summary

burrowing owl), a pre-construction survey for nesting raptors would be required. Any active nest or burrow found during survey efforts will be protected until nesting activity has ended to ensure compliance with the California Fish and Game Code. Another raptor potentially foraging in the area is ferruginous hawk (Buteo regalis). Other special status bird species observed or with potential to occur include loggerhead shrike (Lanius ludovicianus), black-tailed gnatcatcher (Polioptila melanura), Crissal thrasher (Toxostoma crissale), and Le Conte’s thrasher (Toxostoma lecontei). If vegetation clearing would occur during the bird nesting season (February 1 to August 31), a pre-construction survey for nesting birds would be required to ensure compliance with the MBTA.

Special Status Mammal Species: A focused trapping program for the Palm Springs pocket mouse (Perognathus longimembris bangsi) was conducted in 2001 and confirmed the presence of this species in the BSA. However, Palm Springs pocket mouse is a species Covered under the CV MSHCP; therefore, no mitigation is required. Focused surveys for the Palm Springs [Coachella Valley] round-tailed ground squirrel (Xerospermophilus tereticaudus var. chlorus) conducted in 2001 and 2006 determined that this species is absent from the BSA. Other special status mammal species with potential to occur include pallid San Diego pocket mouse (Chaetodipus fallax pallidus) and American badger (Taxidea taxus); impacts on these species would be considered less than substantial. Pallid bat (Antrozous pallidus), western mastiff bat (Eumops perotis californicus), and pocketed free-tailed bat (Nyctinomops femorosaccus) have potential to forage and roost in the BSA. A pre- construction passive acoustical survey for roosting bats will be required prior to construction to ensure that an active roost is not impacted. Construction activities will be limited to daylight hours (to the extent practicable) and permanent night lighting will be directed away from open space areas in order to avoid indirect effects on nocturnal species as a result of night lighting.

Construction of a new interchange may result in indirect impacts on the surrounding open space areas, including an incremental increase in noise, night lighting, human activity, and vehicle strike hazards. Construction and operational impacts may also increase dust and urban pollutants. Most of these indirect impacts are considered less than substantial because disturbance levels would not be expected to increase substantially over existing conditions. Mitigation for indirect impacts includes the use of Best Management Practices to minimize impacts on water quality and the spread of invasive plant species. Impacts on wildlife movement and movement of sand were considered less than substantial.

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project viii Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Summary ...... v Table of Contents ...... ix List of Figures ...... xiv List of Tables ...... xv List of Abbreviated Terms ...... xvi Chapter 1. Introduction ...... 1 1.1. Project History ...... 1 1.1.1. Purpose and Need ...... 2 1.2. Project Description ...... 2 1.2.1. Alternatives ...... 3 1.2.1.1. Project Alternatives ...... 3 1.2.1.2. Common Design Features of the Build Alternatives ...... 3 1.2.1.3. Unique Features of the Build Alternatives ...... 5 1.2.1.4. Alternative 5: No-Build Alternative...... 6 Chapter 2. Study Methods ...... 9 2.1. Regulatory Requirements ...... 9 2.1.1. Federal Requirements ...... 9 2.1.1.1. National Environmental Policy Act ...... 9 2.1.1.2. Federal Endangered Species Act ...... 9 2.1.1.3. Clean Water Act ...... 9 2.1.1.4. Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act ...... 10 2.1.1.5. Executive Order 11990 ...... 10 2.1.1.6. Executive order 13112 ...... 10 2.1.1.7. Migratory Bird Treaty Act ...... 10 2.1.2. State Requirements ...... 10 2.1.2.1. California Environmental Quality Act ...... 10 2.1.2.2. California Endangered Species Act ...... 10 2.1.2.3. Porter-Cologne Act ...... 11 2.1.2.4. California Fish and Game Code ...... 11 2.1.2.5. Native Plant Protection Act ...... 11 2.1.2.6. Unlawful Take or Destruction of Nests or Eggs ...... 12 2.1.2.7. California Environmental Quality Act—Treatment of Non-Listed Plant and Animal Species ...... 12 2.1.3. Habitat Conservation Plan ...... 12 2.1.3.1. CV MSHCP ...... 12 2.2. Studies Required ...... 12 2.2.1. Literature Review ...... 12 2.2.2. Vegetation Mapping and General Plant Surveys ...... 13 2.2.3. General Wildlife Surveys ...... 13 2.2.4. Focused Surveys ...... 13 2.2.4.1. Special Status Plants ...... 14 2.2.4.2. Special Status Wildlife ...... 14 2.2.5. Jurisdictional Delineation ...... 17 2.3. Personnel and Survey Dates ...... 18 2.4. Agency Coordination and Professional Contacts ...... 19 2.5. Limitations That May Influence Results ...... 20

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project ix Table of Contents

Chapter 3. Results: Environmental Setting ...... 23 3.1. Description of the Existing Biological and Physical Conditions ...... 23 3.1.1. Study Area ...... 23 3.1.2. Physical Conditions ...... 23 3.1.3. Biological Conditions in the Biological Study Area ...... 24 3.1.3.1. Vegetation Types ...... 24 3.1.3.2. Wildlife ...... 28 3.1.3.3. Wildlife Movement ...... 30 3.1.3.4. Aquatic Resources ...... 32 3.1.3.5. Invasive Species ...... 33 3.2. Regional Species and Habitats of Concern ...... 34 3.2.1. Special Status Vegetation Types ...... 34 3.2.2. Special Status Species ...... 35 Chapter 4. Results: Biological Resources, Discussion of Impacts and Mitigation ...... 47 4.1. Natural Communities of Special Concern ...... 49 4.1.1. Discussion of Mojave Desert Wash Scrub ...... 49 4.1.1.1. Survey Results ...... 49 4.1.1.2. Avoidance and Minimization Efforts ...... 49 4.1.1.3. Project Impacts ...... 50 4.1.1.4. Compensatory Mitigation ...... 50 4.1.1.5. Cumulative Impacts ...... 51 4.2. Special Status Plant Species ...... 52 4.2.1. Discussion of Mecca-Aster ...... 52 4.2.1.1. Survey Results ...... 52 4.2.1.2. Avoidance and Minimization Efforts ...... 53 4.2.1.3. Project Impacts ...... 53 4.2.1.4. Compensatory Mitigation ...... 53 4.2.1.5. Cumulative Impacts ...... 53 4.3. Special Status Animal Species ...... 53 4.3.1. Discussion of the Desert Tortoise ...... 54 4.3.1.1. Survey Results ...... 54 4.3.1.2. Avoidance and Minimization Efforts ...... 54 4.3.1.3. Project Impacts ...... 56 4.3.1.4. Compensatory Mitigation ...... 56 4.3.1.5. Cumulative Impacts ...... 56 4.3.2. Discussion of the Flat-tailed Horned Lizard ...... 56 4.3.2.1. Survey Results ...... 56 4.3.2.2. Avoidance and Minimization Efforts ...... 57 4.3.2.3. Project Impacts ...... 57 4.3.2.4. Compensatory Mitigation ...... 57 4.3.2.5. Cumulative Impacts ...... 57 4.3.3. Discussion of the Burrowing Owl ...... 57 4.3.3.1. Survey Results ...... 58 4.3.3.2. Avoidance and Minimization Efforts ...... 58 4.3.3.3. Project Impacts ...... 59 4.3.3.4. Compensatory Mitigation ...... 60 4.3.3.5. Cumulative Impacts ...... 60

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project x Table of Contents

4.3.4. Discussion of the Ferruginous Hawk ...... 61 4.3.4.1. Survey Results ...... 61 4.3.4.2. Avoidance and Minimization Efforts ...... 61 4.3.4.3. Project Impacts ...... 61 4.3.4.4. Compensatory Mitigation ...... 62 4.3.4.5. Cumulative Impacts ...... 63 4.3.5. Discussion of the Prairie Falcon ...... 63 4.3.5.1. Survey Results ...... 63 4.3.5.2. Avoidance and Minimization Efforts ...... 63 4.3.5.3. Project Impacts ...... 64 4.3.5.4. Compensatory Mitigation ...... 65 4.3.5.5. Cumulative Impacts ...... 65 4.3.6. Discussion of the Loggerhead Shrike ...... 66 4.3.6.1. Survey Results ...... 66 4.3.6.2. Avoidance and Minimization Efforts ...... 66 4.3.6.3. Project Impacts ...... 67 4.3.6.4. Compensatory Mitigation ...... 68 4.3.6.5. Cumulative Impacts ...... 68 4.3.7. Discussion of the Black-Tailed Gnatcatcher ...... 68 4.3.7.1. Survey Results ...... 69 4.3.7.2. Avoidance and Minimization Efforts ...... 69 4.3.7.3. Project Impacts ...... 69 4.3.7.4. Compensatory Mitigation ...... 70 4.3.7.5. Cumulative Impacts ...... 70 4.3.8. Discussion of the Crissal Thrasher ...... 71 4.3.8.1. Survey Results ...... 71 4.3.8.2. Avoidance and Minimization Efforts ...... 71 4.3.8.3. Project Impacts ...... 71 4.3.8.4. Compensatory Mitigation ...... 72 4.3.8.5. Cumulative Impacts ...... 72 4.3.9. Discussion of the Le Conte’sThrasher ...... 73 4.3.9.1. Survey Results ...... 73 4.3.9.2. Avoidance and Minimization Efforts ...... 73 4.3.9.3. Project Impacts ...... 74 4.3.9.4. Compensatory Mitigation ...... 75 4.3.9.5. Cumulative Impacts ...... 75 4.3.10. Discussion of the Pallid Bat ...... 76 4.3.10.1. Survey Results ...... 76 4.3.10.2. Avoidance and Minimization Efforts ...... 76 4.3.10.3. Project Impacts ...... 77 4.3.10.4. Compensatory Mitigation ...... 78 4.3.10.5. Cumulative Impacts ...... 78 4.3.11. Discussion of the Pallid San Diego Pocket Mouse ...... 78 4.3.11.1. Survey Results ...... 78 4.3.11.2. Avoidance and Minimization Efforts ...... 79 4.3.11.3. Project Impacts ...... 79 4.3.11.4. Compensatory Mitigation ...... 80 4.3.11.5. Cumulative Impacts ...... 80

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project xi Table of Contents

4.3.12. Discussion of the Western Mastiff Bat ...... 81 4.3.12.1. Survey Results ...... 81 4.3.12.2. Avoidance and Minimization Efforts ...... 81 4.3.12.3. Project Impacts ...... 82 4.3.12.4. Compensatory Mitigation ...... 83 4.3.12.5. Cumulative Impacts ...... 83 4.3.13. Discussion of the Pocketed Free-Tailed Bat ...... 84 4.3.13.1. Survey Results ...... 84 4.3.13.2. Avoidance and Minimization Efforts ...... 84 4.3.13.3. Project Impacts ...... 85 4.3.13.4. Compensatory Mitigation ...... 86 4.3.13.5. Cumulative Impacts ...... 86 4.3.14. Discussion of the Palm Springs Pocket Mouse ...... 86 4.3.14.1. Survey Results ...... 87 4.3.14.2. Avoidance and Minimization Efforts ...... 87 4.3.14.3. Project Impacts ...... 87 4.3.14.4. Compensatory Mitigation ...... 88 4.3.14.5. Cumulative Impacts ...... 88 4.3.15. Discussion of the Palm Springs [Coachella Valley] Round-Tailed Ground Squirrel ...... 89 4.3.15.1. Survey Results ...... 89 4.3.15.2. Avoidance and Minimization Efforts ...... 89 4.3.15.3. Project Impacts ...... 89 4.3.15.4. Compensatory Mitigation ...... 89 4.3.15.5. Cumulative Impacts ...... 90 4.3.16. Discussion of the American Badger ...... 90 4.3.16.1. Survey Results ...... 90 4.3.16.2. Avoidance and Minimization Efforts ...... 90 4.3.16.3. Project Impacts ...... 91 4.3.16.4. Compensatory Mitigation ...... 92 4.3.16.5. Cumulative Impacts ...... 92 Chapter 5. Results: Permits and Technical Studies for Special Laws or Conditions ... 95 5.1. Federal Endangered Species Act Consultation Summary ...... 95 5.2. Federal Fisheries and Essential Fish Habitat Consultation Summary ...... 95 5.3. California Endangered Species Act Consultation Summary ...... 95 5.4. Wetlands and Other Waters Coordination ...... 96 5.4.1.1. Survey Results ...... 96 5.4.1.2. Avoidance and Minimization Efforts ...... 100 5.4.1.3. Project Impacts ...... 101 5.4.1.4. Compensatory Mitigation ...... 101 5.5. Invasive Species ...... 102 5.6. Other ...... 103 5.6.1. CV MSHCP ...... 103 5.6.2. Nesting Raptors ...... 104 5.6.3. Nesting Birds ...... 105 5.6.4. Wildlife Movement ...... 106 5.6.5. Movement of Sand ...... 106 5.6.6. Noise Impacts ...... 106 5.6.7. Increased Dust and Urban Pollutants ...... 107 5.6.8. Night Lighting ...... 108 5.6.9. Human Activity ...... 108

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project xii Table of Contents

5.6.10. Construction Monitoring ...... 109 5.6.11. Exit Signage ...... 109 Chapter 6. References ...... 111 Appendix A Results of the Literature Review: USFWS Official Species List, CNDDB, and CNPS Electronic Inventory ...... 117 Appendix B Plant and Wildlife Compendia ...... 119 Appendix C Results of Special Status Plant Survey ...... 129 Appendix D Results of Flat-tailed Horned Lizard Survey ...... 131 Appendix E Results of Desert Tortoise Survey ...... 133 Appendix F Burrowing Owl Survey ...... 135 Appendix G Results of Palm Springs Round-tailed Ground Squirrel Survey ...... 137 Appendix H Palm Springs Pocket Mouse Survey ...... 139 Appendix I Jurisdictional Delineation ...... 141 Appendix J Site Photographs ...... 143

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project xiii List of Figures

List of Figures

Follows Page 1 Regional Location ...... 1 2 Local Vicinity ...... 1 3 Alternative 3...... 5 4 Alternative 4...... 6 5 Biological Study Area ...... 23 6 Topography ...... 23 7 Soil Types ...... 24 8 Biological Resources ...... 24 9 Special Status Locations ...... 35 10 Project Impacts – Alternative 3...... 47 11 Project Impacts – Alternative 4...... 47 12 I-10/Avenue 50 Sign Plan ...... 109

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project xiv List of Tables

List of Tables

Table ES-1 Vegetation Types and Other Areas That Would Be Impacted by the Alternative 3 ...... vi Table ES-2 Vegetation Types and Other Areas That Would Be Impacted by the Alternative 4 ...... vi Table 1 Vegetation Types in the Biological Study Area ...... 25 Table 2 Special Status Plant Species Known to Occur in the Project Region ...... 37 Table 3 Special Status Wildlife Species Known to Occur in the Project Region ...... 41 Table 4 Vegetation Types and Other Areas Impacted By Alternative 3 ...... 48 Table 5 Vegetation Types and Other Areas Impacted By Alternative 4 ...... 49 Table 6 Project Impacts of Alternative 3 on the Burrowing Owl ...... 59 Table 7 Project Impacts of Alternative 4 on the Burrowing Owl ...... 60 Table 8 Project Impacts of Alternative 3 on the Ferruginous Hawk ...... 62 Table 9 Project Impacts of Alternative 4 on the Ferruginous Hawk ...... 62 Table 10 Project Impacts of Alternative 3 on the Prairie Falcon ...... 65 Table 11 Project Impacts of Alternative 4 on the Prairie Falcon ...... 65 Table 12 Project Impacts of Alternative 3 on the Loggerhead Shrike ...... 67 Table 13 Project Impacts of Alternative 4 on the Loggerhead Shrike ...... 68 Table 14 Project Impacts of Alternative 3 on the Black-Tailed Gnatcatcher ...... 70 Table 15 Project Impacts of Alternative 4 on the Black-Tailed Gnatcatcher ...... 70 Table 16 Project Impacts of Alternative 3 on the Crissal Thrasher ...... 72 Table 17 Project Impacts of Alternative 4 on the Crissal Thrasher ...... 72 Table 18 Project Impacts of Alternative 3 on the Le Conte’s Thrasher ...... 74 Table 19 Project Impacts of Alternative 4 on the Le Conte’s Thrasher ...... 75 Table 20 Project Impacts of Alternative 3 on the Pallid Bat ...... 77 Table 21 Project Impacts of Alternative 4 on the Pallid Bat ...... 78 Table 22 Project Impacts of Alternative 3 on the Pallid San Diego Pocket Mouse ...... 80 Table 23 Project Impacts of Alternative 4 on the Pallid San Diego Pocket Mouse ...... 80 Table 24 Project Impacts of Alternative 3 on the Western Mastiff Bat ...... 83 Table 25 Project Impacts of Alternative 4 on the Western Mastiff Bat ...... 83 Table 26 Project Impacts of Alternative 3 on the Pocketed Free-tailed Bat ...... 85 Table 27 Project Impacts of Alternative 4 on the Pocketed Free-tailed Bat ...... 86 Table 28 Project Impacts of Alternative 3 on the Palm Springs Pocket Mouse ...... 88 Table 29 Project Impacts of Alternative 4 on the Palm Springs Pocket Mouse ...... 88 Table 30 Project Impacts of Alternative 3 on the American Badger ...... 92 Table 31 Project Impacts of Alternative 4 on the American Badger ...... 92 Table 32 Exit Signage Impacts for Signs Located Outside the BSA ...... 110

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project xv List of Abbreviated Terms

List of Abbreviated Terms

A absent BMPs Best Management Practices BSA Biological Study Area °C Degrees Celsius CAL-IPC California Invasive Plant Council Caltrans California Department of Transportation CDFW California Department of Fish and Wildlife CEQA California Environmental Quality Act CESA California Endangered Species Act CFR Code of Federal Regulations CHP California Highway Patrol CNDDB California Natural Diversity Data Base CNPS California Native Plant Society County Riverside County Transportation Department CRPR California Rare Plant Rank CVAG Coachella Valley Association of Governments CVMSHCP Coachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan EIR Environmental Impact Report EFH essential fish habitat °F Degrees Fahrenheit FESA Federal Endangered Species Act FHWA Federal Highway Administration ft feet GPS Geographic Positioning System HAPC habitat areas of particular concern HDM Highway Design Manual HOV High Occupancy Vehicle I Interstate I-10 Interstate 10 km kilometer km/h kilometers per hour KP Kilometer Post LOS Level of Service MBTA Migratory Bird Treaty Act mph miles per hour MSE mechanically stabilized earth MSHCP Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan msl mean sea level NEPA National Environmental Policy Act NES Natural Environmental Study

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project xvi List of Abbreviated Terms

NOAA National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration P present PDT Project Design Team PM Post Mile PSR Project Study Report RCTC Riverside County Transportation Commission ROW Right-of-way RTP Regional Transportation Plan RWQCB Regional Water Quality Control Board SR State Route TSM Transportation System Management UPRR Union Pacific Railroad USACE United States Army Corps of Engineers USFWS United States Fish and Wildlife Service USGS United States Geological Survey VA Value Analysis WRMSHCP Western Riverside Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan ZOI Zone of Influence

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project xvii

Chapter 1 Introduction

Chapter 1. Introduction

This Natural Environment Study (NES) has been prepared to support the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) documentation for the proposed Interstate (I) 10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project (hereinafter referred to as “the proposed project”) in Riverside County, California (Figures 1 and 2). This NES includes information on the current biological conditions and meets the State of California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) NES guidelines (Caltrans 2009). This information has been reported in accordance with accepted scientific and technical standards that are consistent with the requirements of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), and Caltrans.

The project proposes to create a new interchange, Avenue 50, on I-10 from postmile (PM) R62.3 to R63.7. The purpose of the proposed project is to address the anticipated increase in traffic demand and to provide a new access point to I-10 to the City of Coachella and to eastern Coachella Valley. The project description and purpose and need are discussed in more detail below.

1.1. Project History

The proposed project has been included in the City’s plans for over 35 years. Over the last 20 years, significant planning and engineering studies have been conducted on specific land use and circulation planning for the northeastern portion of the City of Coachella. These studies have included preparation of a Specific Plan and Environmental Impact Report (EIR); preparation of a Transportation Concept Report; and inclusion of the proposed I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange in the 1994 Regional Mobility Element and in the City of Coachella General Plan Circulation Element in 1997. The Circulation Element update included the proposed interchange as a key element in the City of Coachella’s Circulation Plan (Caltrans 2003). The proposed project is in the Riverside County Transportation Commission’s (RCTC’s) 2004 Regional Transportation Plan and the RCTC 2006 Regional Transportation Improvement Project.

Since the preparation of previous environmental documentation, the Implementation Agreement for the Coachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (CV MSHSP) has been signed. The CV MSHCP aims to conserve over 240,000 acres of open space and protect 27 plant and animal species while allowing for expedited

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 1 Chapter 1 Introduction

construction of certain planned transportation projects. Signatories to the Plan include Riverside County, Caltrans, the Coachella Valley Association of Governments (CVAG), and the Cities of Coachella, Indio and other desert cities in the valley. Because of this, take of certain species covered by the Plan is authorized for planned transportation projects such as the proposed project.

1.1.1. Purpose and Need The purpose of the proposed project is to:

 Address the anticipated increased traffic demand and associated congestion on the local and regional transportation system, including adjacent interchanges at I-10/Dillon Road and State Route (SR) 86/Dillon Road;

 Construct an interchange along I-10 at the future extension of Avenue 50 as identified on the City’s General Plan Circulation Element; and

 Provide a new regional access point to I-10 to the City and eastern Coachella Valley.

The project addresses the following needs, transportation deficiencies and problems:

 The City’s Land Use Plan Element of the General Plan identifies ongoing and planned development in the eastern part of Coachella that is expected to increase the local population and local/regional traffic demands;

 The Circulation Plan Element identifies Avenue 50 as a major arterial east- west corridor with access to I-10 to serve local and regional traffic needs; and

 Adjacent interchanges at I-10/Dillon Road and SR-86/Dillon Road are forecast to operate at unacceptable level of service (LOS) by forecast year 2040 based on growth and traffic projections.

1.2. Project Description

It is proposed to construct a new interchange at I-10 and Avenue 50, from PM R62.3 to R63.7, within the limits of the City of Coachella (City) in the County of Riverside. The proposed interchange is located approximately 3.4 miles east of the existing I- 10/Dillon Road interchange (PM 58.9) and approximately 12.7 miles west of the existing I-10/Aqueduct Wash interchange (PM 75.0). Within the limits of the project, I-10 is a four-lane freeway with a median running down the center and no High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) facilities. All lanes are 12 feet with outside and inside shoulders of 10 feet and 5 feet, respectively. As part of the proposed project, Avenue

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 2 Valley Victorville ST138 ST18

a ST18

L 395 n ¤£

B s Lucerne Valley

n n T W E N T Y N I N E P A L M S

g a 15 Hesperia e M A R I N E C O R P S r ST247 d l ¨§

e A N G E L E S i n s ST18 N A T I O N A L o ST173 F O R E S T Lake Big Bear ST138 Arrowhead Lake San Gabriel Big Bear Reservoir ST18 S A N B E R N A R D I N O Rancho N A T I O N A L F O R E S T Cucamonga ST38 Yucca Valley ST30 ST62 210 ST330 ¨§ San Bernardino Rialto

West Covina 10 ¨§ Ontario San Bernardino Yucaipa Redlands Riverside ST60 Riverside Desert Hot Springs Los Angeles ST142 ST71 ST60 Orange ST91 Moreno Valley J O S H U A T R E E ST90 ST57 Yorba Linda N A T I O N A L P A R K Corona Lake Cathedral City Lake Perris ST111 Anaheim Mathews ST79 ¨§5 ST241 Perris 215 San Jacinto ST243 ST22 ¨§ CLEVELAND ST177 261 Santa Ana ST NATIONAL 15 Indio 10 ST55 ¨§ Palm Springs ST111 ¨§ FOREST Canyon Idyllwild li Lake Diamond Valley 405 241 ST74 ¨§ ST Canyon Lake Lake Rancho Lake Irvine Elsinore Santa ST79 Lake Elsinore Mission ST73 Lake Viejo ST74 Skinner Project Location 133 ST1 ST Laguna Beach ST371 ST111 San Juan Temecula Capistrano ST79 Riverside Riverside San C A M P Salton Imperial Clemente San Diego Sea P E N D L E T O N P A O ³ C Lake ST86 C I Henshaw 5 15 Regional Location E F ¨§ ¨§ ST78 A I I-10/Avenue 50, Riverside County, California C N PM 62.3 to PM 63.7 15 7.5 0 15 D8-RIV-10 Imperial Miles EA 08-45210 Copyright:© 2014 Esri Figure 1

LITT BER LE Indio NA SA n RD N

o IN l O

44 l i M

D TS

s i

r Coachella r

a R i v e r s i d e C o u n t y H

¨¦§10

A 10 l ¨¦§ l A m e r ic a n C a n a l

Dee Orroo PPaarrkk Coachella 50 50Th W h SSiieerrrraa VViissttaa PPaarrkk i te w a VViieettnnaam VVeetteerraannss PPaarrkk te r R iv e

r o

BBaaggddoouumaa PPaarrkk Daatteellaanndd PPaarrkk m

l i UV111 F ³ 52 Local Vicinity UV86 I-10/Avenue 50, Riverside County, California Biological Study Area PM 62.3 to PM 63.7 City Boundaries 0.75 0.375 0 0.75 D8-RIV-10 Drainage Miles EA 08-45210 Copyright:© 2014 Esri 54Th Figure 2

Chapter 1 Introduction

50 would be constructed at the new interchange location approximately 600 feet south of I-10 where it would tie into the future planned extension of Avenue 50, and terminate at the curb returns north of the westbound ramps intersection. The planned extension of Avenue 50 south of I-10, as referenced above, will be constructed prior to construction of the proposed interchange at I-10 and Avenue 50.

1.2.1. Alternatives 1.2.1.1. PROJECT ALTERNATIVES Multiple alternatives were evaluated in the Preliminary Study Report (PSR) to address the project’s purpose and need. Each alternative accounted for the close proximity of the I-10/Dillon Road Interchange to the west and existing large drainage patterns to the east and west. Two Build Alternatives and a No-Build Alternative were carried forward from the PSR to be studied for the I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project as follows.

Alternative 3: New partial cloverleaf interchange

Alternative 4: New spread diamond interchange with westbound loop on-ramp

Alternative 5: No-Build Alternative

1.2.1.2. COMMON DESIGN FEATURES OF THE BUILD ALTERNATIVES Each Build Alternative would feature new entrance and exit ramps as well as a new bridge overcrossing providing direct and continuous alignment for Avenue 50 traffic crossing I-10. An overcrossing structure provides the most flexibility with respect to future widening of I-10. There is no future widening planned on Avenue 50 within the interchange limits, and the proposed overcrossing is designed at the ultimate width. Dedicated right-turn lanes for the loop on ramp(s) would be provided. Signalization is proposed at all study intersections.

Each build alternative features a new westbound direct on-ramp, and westbound loop on-ramp that merge onto the mainline at one gore point. The additional lane added by the westbound loop on-ramp remains at full width through the westbound direct on- ramp geometry, through the 50:1 westbound direct on-ramp lane drop, and for a distance of 500 feet before reducing at a 50:1 taper to match the existing mainline configuration.

The configuration of the proposed westbound on-ramp would require widening of the existing Echo Ditch bridge in the westbound direction.

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 3 Chapter 1 Introduction

Within the project limits, according to the City of Coachella’s General Plan adopted in 1996, the Circulation Element states that the ultimate facility configuration for Avenue 50 is a six-lane Major Arterial highway. The current design of Alternatives 3 and 4 provide for a design speed of 45 miles per hour (mph) along Avenue 50 through the interchange due to horizontal and vertical geometric constraints. The proposed design speed meets minimum standards per Caltrans’ Highway Design Manual (HDM). Avenue 50 currently terminates west of the Coachella Branch of the All American Canal. All of the alternatives that were analyzed will require the extension of Avenue 50 to connect the City’s existing arterial roadway network to the new interchange location. This extension is included in the adjacent development project located to the south of the interchange and is not part of this project. The extension of Avenue 50 will take place prior to the construction of the interchange project addressed herein. Avenue 50 will terminate at the northern limits of the westbound ramp curb returns.

The proposed eastbound direct entrance ramp for each Build Alternative would require construction of a retaining wall for approximately 650 feet. The type of retaining wall will be determined during the final design phase of the project. The purpose of the proposed retaining wall is to minimize impacts within the Awareness Floodplain Boundary adopted by Riverside County Flood Control and Water Conservation District for Smoky Gulch.

The project provides two-lane ramp meter entrances at all interchange entrance ramps, including right-of-way (ROW); geometrics to accommodate vehicle storage; ramp meter equipment; and California Highway Patrol (CHP) enforcement areas, in accordance with the Ramp Meter Design Manual. However, according to the 2012 RTP, no HOV, Park and Ride, or transit facilities are planned within the project limits with the design year 2040. Therefore, it has been determined that HOV preferential lanes would not be included in the project. This is not in compliance with Ramp Metering Policy Procedures and, as such, a Fact Sheet Exceptions to Ramp Metering Policy would be created.

For Alternatives 3 and 4, the sidewalk extends on both sides of Avenue 50 for the limits of the proposed project. Highway planting would be part of this project and would be coordinated between Caltrans and the City. Landscape improvements within Caltrans’ right of way will include soil roughening/track walking the graded slopes, incorporating straw or wood fiber mulch into the surface by disking or rolling

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 4 Chapter 1 Introduction

with a bladed roller, and dry seeding. All grading would be designed to reflect the natural topography of adjacent areas; slopes would be land-form graded for stability.

Alternatives 3 and 4 may require relocation of a Sprint line that runs along the south side of I-10 within the project limits. AT&T, Verizon, Southern California Gas, and Coachella Valley Water District have responded to utility notices stating they have no known facilities within the proposed project area.

Geotechnical investigations would be required during final design for the design of the Avenue 50 overcrossing, pavement, and slope stability. It is anticipated that approximately 36 borings would be required for the project.

Alternatives 3 and 4 would require acquisition of approximately 73.8 acres of ROW for the new interchange ramps and Avenue 50; it is anticipated to involve partial acquisitions of affected parcels. These parcels are located in all four quadrants of the proposed interchange. The total cost of ROW acquisition is estimated to be $2,766,700.

Design Exceptions Crosswalks are not provided across Avenue 50 as part of the proposed project; therefore, dual curb ramps are not provided. A fact sheet for nonstandard advisory design features will be prepared during final design. There are no other nonstandard features associated with the proposed project.

1.2.1.3. UNIQUE FEATURES OF THE BUILD ALTERNATIVES Two Build Alternatives and a No-Build Alternative are evaluated in this NES, and the unique features associated with each alternative are described below.

Alternative 3: New Partial Cloverleaf Interchange The Alternative 3 proposed design is shown on Figure 3. Alternative 3 consists of the construction of a new partial cloverleaf-type interchange with loop and direct on- ramps for both westbound and eastbound movements, and direct off-ramps for both westbound and eastbound movements. The proposed typical section of Avenue 50 across I-10 would have 6 standard traffic lanes and a 4-foot median, resulting in a bridge width of 114 feet, 0 inches.

The estimated roadway cost for Alternative 3 is $33,486,300. The estimated structure cost is $10,765,000. Including ROW, the total estimated cost of Alternative 3 is $47,018,000.

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 5 Chapter 1 Introduction

This alternative would provide continuous alignment across I-10. This alternative would also reduce delay at signalized ramp intersections by providing dedicated right turns onto loop on-ramps for both westbound and eastbound movements entering I-10.

Build Alternative 4: New Spread Diamond Interchange with Westbound Loop On-Ramp The Alternative 4 proposed design is shown on Figure 4. Alternative 4 consists of the construction of a new partial cloverleaf-type interchange with westbound loop and direct on-ramps; an eastbound direct on-ramp; and direct off-ramps for both westbound and eastbound movements. The proposed typical section of Avenue 50 across I-10 would have six standard traffic lanes and a 4-foot median. The proposed geometry will incorporate a left-turn lane on southbound Avenue 50 for westbound I-10 movements, resulting in a bridge width of 125 feet, 0 inches.

The estimated roadway cost for Alternative 4 is $32,686,700. The estimated structure cost is $11,665,000. Including ROW, the total estimated cost of Alternative 4 is $47,118,400.

This alternative would provide continuous alignment across I-10. This alternative would also reduce delay at the westbound signalized ramp intersection by providing a dedicated right turn entering I-10.

1.2.1.4. ALTERNATIVE 5: NO-BUILD ALTERNATIVE Alternative 5, the No-Build Alternative, would maintain the existing facility in its current condition, and no new connection to I-10 would be constructed. There are no capital costs associated with this alternative. The No-Build Alternative would produce no environmental impacts. However, this alternative would not address the projected operational deficiencies as development takes place and as traffic demand increases. The existing I-10/Dillon Road Interchange would continue to provide the sole direct point of access to I-10 within the City limits. The western portion of the City will continue to have access to I-10 via SR-86 and Dillon Road. The expanding eastern portion of the City would be required to travel approximately 3 to 5 miles out of direction to access eastbound I-10 via Dillon Road. By the year 2040, the intersections and freeway segments within the area of influence are projected to deteriorate from LOS B to LOS F. The inadequate capacity of the existing interchanges and local street system, when subjected to increased traffic, will contribute to the operational breakdown of the facility and to higher incidence of congestion. The No-Build Alternative would not reduce traffic congestion and would

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 6 Biological Study Area

City Boundaries

Project Design Riverside County

¨¦§10

A ll A m e r ic a n C a n a l ³ Alternative 3 I-10/Avenue 50, Riverside County, California 600 300 0 600 Coachella Feet PM 62.3 to PM 63.7 Aerial Source: ESRI May 2010 D8-RIV-10 EA 08-45210 Figure 3

Biological Study Area

City Boundaries

Project Design

Riverside County

¨¦§10

A ll A m e r ic a n C a n a l ³ Alternative 4 I-10/Avenue 50, Riverside County, California 600 300 0 600 Coachella Feet PM 62.3 to PM 63.7 Aerial Source: ESRI May 2010 D8-RIV-10 EA 08-45210 Figure 4

Chapter 1 Introduction

not improve the overall traffic movements and safety based on projected traffic for year 2040. The No-Build Alternative would not meet the purpose and need of the project. The No-Build Alternative does provide a basis for comparing the project to the existing project setting.

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 7

Chapter 2 Study Methods

Chapter 2. Study Methods

The data provided in this report was taken from general and focused surveys of the Biological Study Area (BSA) conducted by BonTerra in 2001, 2005, 2006, and 2013. The BSA is shown on Figure 5. In addition, pertinent information was obtained from studies and other documentation prepared by biologists who have previously conducted studies in the region.

2.1. Regulatory Requirements

2.1.1. Federal Requirements 2.1.1.1. NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT NEPA directs a “systematic, interdisciplinary approach” to planning and decision making and requires environmental statements for “major federal actions significantly affecting the quality of the human environment”. Implementing regulations by the Council of Environmental Quality (40 Code of Federal Regulations [CFR], Parts 1500–1508) require federal agencies to identify and assess reasonable alternatives to proposed actions that will restore and enhance the quality of the human environment and avoid or minimize adverse environmental impacts.

2.1.1.2. FEDERAL ENDANGERED SPECIES ACT The Federal Endangered Species Act (FESA) protects plants and animals that the government has listed as “Endangered” or “Threatened”. A federally listed species is protected from unauthorized “take”, which is defined in the FESA as “harass, harm, pursue, hunt, shoot, wound, kill, trap, capture, or attempt to engage in any such conduct”.

2.1.1.3. CLEAN WATER ACT The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Regulatory Branch regulates activities that discharge dredged or fill materials into wetlands and other “waters of the U.S.” under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act and Section 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act.

Section 401 of the Clean Water Act gives the Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB) the authority to regulate, through a Water Quality Certification, any proposed, federally permitted activity that may affect water quality. Development allowed within any identified jurisdictional areas may be subject to requirements under Sections 401 and 404 of the Clean Water Act.

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 9 Chapter 2 Study Methods

2.1.1.4. FISH AND WILDLIFE COORDINATION ACT The Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act requires consultation with the USFWS and the fish and wildlife agencies of States where the “waters of any stream or other body of water are proposed or authorized, permitted or licensed to be impounded, diverted. . . or otherwise controlled or modified” by any agency under a Federal permit or license. Consultation is to be undertaken for the purpose of “preventing loss of and damage to wildlife resources”.

2.1.1.5. EXECUTIVE ORDER 11990 Executive Order 11990 directs federal agencies to (1) minimize the destruction, loss, or degradation of wetlands and (2) preserve and enhance the natural and beneficial values of wetlands in carrying out the agencies’ responsibilities.

2.1.1.6. EXECUTIVE ORDER 13112 Executive Order 13112 directs federal agencies to “prevent the introduction of invasive species and provide for their control and to minimize the economic, ecological, and human health impacts that invasive species (may) cause”.

2.1.1.7. MIGRATORY BIRD TREATY ACT Pursuant to the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) of 1918, federal law prohibits the taking of migratory birds, their nests, or their eggs (16 United States Code, Section 703). In 1972, the MBTA was amended to include protection for migratory birds of prey (such as raptors).

2.1.2. State Requirements 2.1.2.1. CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT CEQA was enacted with the intention “that all agencies of the state government which regulate activities of private individuals, corporations, and public agencies which are found to affect the quality of the environment, shall regulate such activities so that major consideration is given to preventing environmental damage, while providing a decent home and satisfying living environment for every Californian” (CEQA 21000[g]). CEQA applies to actions directly undertaken through the use of state lead agencies. Regulations for implementation are found in the State CEQA Guidelines published by the California Resources Agency.

2.1.2.2. CALIFORNIA ENDANGERED SPECIES ACT Pursuant to the California Endangered Species Act (CESA) and Section 2081 of the California Fish and Game Code, an Incidental Take Permit from the CDFW is required for projects that could result in the take of a State-listed Threatened or

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 10 Chapter 2 Study Methods

Endangered species. Under the CESA, “take” is defined as an activity that would directly or indirectly kill an individual of a species. A consistency finding per Section 2080.1 of the CESA is issued when the conditions of a federal incidental take statement (USFWS Biological Opinion) are consistent with the CESA.

2.1.2.3. PORTER-COLOGNE ACT The Porter-Cologne Act provides the State of California with very broad authority to regulate “waters of the State”, which are defined as any surface water or groundwater, including saline waters. The act also establishes nine RWQCBs to oversee water quality on a day-to-day basis at the local/regional level. Regional Boards regulate all pollutant or nuisance discharges that may affect either surface water or groundwater. Any person proposing to discharge waste within any region must file a report of waste discharge with the appropriate regional board.

2.1.2.4. CALIFORNIA FISH AND GAME CODE Sections 1600–1616 of the California Fish and Game Code protect “waters of the State”. Activities of State and local agencies as well as public utilities that are project proponents are regulated by the CDFW under Section 1602 of the code; this section regulates any work that would (1) substantially divert or obstruct the natural flow of any river, stream, or lake; (2) substantially change or use any material from the bed, channel, or bank of any river, stream, or lake; or (3) deposit or dispose of debris, waste, or other material containing crumbled, flaked, or ground pavement where it may pass into any river, stream, or lake. For project activities (described above) that may affect stream channels and/or riparian vegetation regulated under Sections 1600 through 1603, CDFW notification is required and may require a Streambed Alteration Agreement.

2.1.2.5. NATIVE PLANT PROTECTION ACT Sections 1900–1913 of the California Fish and Game Code were developed to preserve, protect, and enhance Rare and Endangered plants in the state of California. The act requires all state agencies to use their authority to carry out programs to conserve Endangered and Rare native plants. Provisions of the Native Plant Protection Act prohibit the taking of listed plants from the wild and require notification of the CDFW at least ten days in advance of any change in land use which would adversely impact listed plants. This allows the CDFW to salvage listed plant species that would otherwise be destroyed.

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 11 Chapter 2 Study Methods

2.1.2.6. UNLAWFUL TAKE OR DESTRUCTION OF NESTS OR EGGS Sections 3503 and 3503.5 of the California Fish and Game Code specifically protect nests and eggs of birds of prey.

Section 3513 of the California Fish and Game Code duplicates the federal protection of migratory birds and prohibits the take and possession of any migratory nongame bird, as designated in the MBTA.

2.1.2.7. CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT—TREATMENT OF NON-LISTED PLANT AND ANIMAL SPECIES Section 15380 of the State CEQA Guidelines indicates that a lead agency can consider a non-listed species (e.g., California Rare Plant Rank [CRPR] List 1B and 2 plants) to be Endangered, Rare, or Threatened for the purposes of CEQA if the species can be shown to meet the criteria in the definition of “Rare” or “Endangered”.

2.1.3. Habitat Conservation Plan 2.1.3.1. CV MSHCP The CV MSHCP aims to conserve over 240,000 acres of open space and to protect 27 plant and animal species while allowing for expedited construction of certain planned transportation projects. Signatories to the Plan include Riverside County, Caltrans, CVAG, and the Cities of Coachella, Indio, and other desert cities in the valley. Because of this, take of certain species covered by the CV MSHCP is authorized for planned transportation projects such as the proposed project.

2.2. Studies Required

2.2.1. Literature Review A literature review was conducted prior to the initiation of the general survey and updated prior to each focused survey and documentation effort in order to determine the potential for special status species known to occur in the project region (i.e., the CV MSHCP area). The California Native Plant Society’s (CNPS’) Electronic Inventory of Rare and Endangered Vascular Plants of California (CNPS 2005, 2006, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016; USGS Indio, Thermal Canyon, 7.5-minute topographical quadrangles), the CDFW’s California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB) (CDFW 2014a, 2015, 2016; same quadrangles), and a compendia of special status species published by the USFWS and CDFW were also reviewed. An updated species list specific to the project region was received from the USFWS on April 4, 2016 (Appendix A).

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 12 Chapter 2 Study Methods

2.2.2. Vegetation Mapping and General Plant Surveys Vegetation mapping was conducted to describe the vegetation present in the BSA and to evaluate the potential of the habitats to support special status plant species. All plant species observed were recorded in field notes and are listed in Appendix B. Plant species were identified in the field or collected for later identification. Plants were identified using keys, descriptions, and illustrations in Munz (1974), Abrams (1923, 1944, 1951), Abrams and Ferris (1960), and other regional references, such as Baldwin et al. (2002). Taxonomy follows Baldwin et al. (2002) for scientific and common names or current literature (i.e., scientific journals).

Vegetation in the biological study area was most recently mapped using an aerial photograph printed at a scale of 1 inch = 200 feet with the BSA boundary outlined. Nomenclature for vegetation types generally follows that of The Vegetation Classification and Mapping Program: List of California Terrestrial Natural Communities Recognized by the California Natural Diversity Database (CDFG 2010).

2.2.3. General Wildlife Surveys General wildlife surveys were conducted to evaluate the BSA’s potential to support common and special status wildlife species. All species observed during the general surveys were documented in field notes and are listed in Appendix B.

During the surveys, active searches for reptiles and amphibians were accomplished by systematic surveys through appropriate habitat. Active searches for reptiles and amphibians included lifting, overturning, and carefully replacing rocks and debris. Birds were identified by visual and auditory recognition. Surveys for mammals were conducted during the day and included searching for and identifying diagnostic sign including scat, footprints, scratch-outs, dust bowls, burrows, and trails. Taxonomy and nomenclature for wildlife generally follows Stebbins (2003) for amphibians and reptiles, American Ornithologists’ Union (2010) for birds, and Baker et al (2003) for mammals.

2.2.4. Focused Surveys Focused surveys have been conducted in the BSA over multiple years. The 2001 BSA included the extension of Avenue 50 from its existing terminus to the I-10. The 2006 BSA and the current BSA include only the interchange.

Focused surveys were not updated in 2013 because the BSA is not located within a CV MSHCP Conservation Area; therefore, no focused surveys are required.

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 13 Chapter 2 Study Methods

2.2.4.1. SPECIAL STATUS PLANTS Surveys were particularly intended to evaluate habitat suitability for special status plants occurring in the BSA. During the field surveys, all accessible roads, trails, canyons, and washes throughout the BSA were walked, and meandering transects were used on slopes and ridges. These surveys provided systematic coverage of all habitats within the BSA.

All plant species observed were identified in the field or collected for later identification. Plants were identified using keys, descriptions, and illustrations in Baldwin et al. (2002), Hickman (1993), Munz (1974), Abrams (1951), Abrams and Ferris (1960), and other regional references. All species noted in the survey area are listed in Appendix B. In conformance with CDFG guidelines (2000), surveys were: (a) conducted during flowering seasons for the special status plants known from the area; (b) floristic in nature; (c) consistent with conservation ethics; (d) systematically covered all habitat types in the survey area; and (e) well documented, by this report and by voucher specimens deposited at Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden. Special status plant focused survey results are included in Appendix C.

2.2.4.2. SPECIAL STATUS WILDLIFE Flat-Tailed Horned Lizard Flat-tailed horned lizard (Phrynosoma mcallii) surveys followed the Project Evaluation Protocol for flat-tailed horned lizard as stated in Appendix 6 of the Flat- Tailed Horned Lizard Rangewide Management Strategy (FTHLICC 2003). The flat- tailed horned lizard survey protocol requires that surveys be conducted from April through September when air temperatures are between 75 degrees Fahrenheit (°F) and 100°F. Surveys were conducted with approximately 30-foot spacing between transects. The flat-tailed horned lizard survey protocol requires a separate road survey for lizards that involves driving on roads in the BSA and adjacent roads at a speed of no more than ten mph and recording any horned lizards observed. Road surveys should be conducted from April through September primarily in the morning when air temperatures range between 75°F and 100°F (FTHLICC 2003).

Consistent with the Project Evaluation Protocol of the Flat-Tailed Horned Lizard Rangewide Management Strategy (2003), flat-tailed horned lizard is considered absent if (1) horned lizard scat is found, no flat-tailed horned lizards are found, but desert horned lizards occur within two miles of the survey area; (2) no flat-tailed horned lizard locality record(s) exist within two miles of the survey area; or (3) flat- tailed horned lizard locality record(s) exist within two miles, but the habitat is not

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 14 Chapter 2 Study Methods

continuous or suitable between the locality and survey area. Flat-tailed horned lizard focused survey results are included in Appendix D.

Desert Tortoise A presence or absence survey for desert tortoise (Gopherus agassizii) was conducted in the BSA in accordance with the survey protocol developed by the USFWS (1992). Transects, approximately 30 feet apart, were walked by surveyors within the BSA boundary plus a 500-foot buffer. Additionally, transects were walked by surveyors in the Zone of Influence (ZOI) for the proposed project at 100-, 300-, 600-, 1,200-, and 2,400-foot perimeter intervals surrounding the BSA.

The BSA included full coverage of the survey area south of the I-10. The areas north of the I-10 were surveyed if accessible on foot. This area was extremely steep with slopes at greater than 45 degrees; therefore, these areas were investigated on a reconnaissance level only. Transects were not completed in areas where the terrain prevented access on foot. However, surveyors traversed accessible slopes and fully covered all washes within this portion of the BSA.

Surveys were conducted between 6:00 AM and 4:30 PM. During the course of the survey, temperatures ranged from a low of approximately 65°F to a high of approximately 98°F.

Desert tortoise focused survey results are included in Appendix E.

Burrowing Owl Although the project site is in eastern Riverside County, the most current survey protocol for burrowing owl (Athene cunicularia) at the time of the focused survey was the Burrowing Owl Survey Instructions for the Western Riverside Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (WR MSHCP) (County of Riverside 2006). The guidelines outline a survey methodology that has been officially approved by the CDFW and USFWS.

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 15 Chapter 2 Study Methods

The first step, habitat assessment, identifies whether the project site provides potential habitat for the species. This determination is made by a biologist that is knowledgeable in burrowing owl habitat, ecology, and identification. The biologist conducts the assessment by walking the survey area (which should include land within an approximately 500-foot buffer area, if it is accessible) to visually inspect the project site and assess its potential for burrowing owls.

The second step, burrow survey, identifies suitable burrow(s) and the location(s) of occupied burrow(s). The burrow survey is accomplished by a biologist (with the qualifications identified in the first step) while walking through suitable habitat within the survey area via transects no more than approximately 100 feet apart in order to ensure 100 percent visual coverage of the ground surface. If no potentially active burrows are detected, then no focused owl surveys are required.

If potentially active burrows are detected, the burrows must be recorded and mapped, including GPS coordinates. Four surveys that focus on owls must be conducted on four separate days during the owl’s breeding season (March 1 to August 31). These surveys are conducted in the same manner as the burrow survey to ensure 100 percent visual coverage of the ground surface. The first survey may be conducted concurrently with the burrow survey. Focused owl surveys should be conducted in the morning one hour before sunrise to two hours after sunrise or in the early evening two hours before sunset to one hour after sunset. The location of any owls observed, including numbers of pairs and juveniles, and any behavior such as courtship and mating should be recorded.

Burrowing owl focused survey results are included in Appendix F.

Palm Springs Round-Tailed Ground Squirrel Focused surveys for Palm Springs round-tailed ground squirrel (Xerospermophilus [Spermophilus] terticaudus chlorus) were conducted following USFWS survey guidelines. These guidelines state that surveys must be conducted (1) from May 1 through July 31; (2) from 1 hour to 4 hours after sunrise; (3) when temperatures in the shade are between 80°F and 91°F; (4) via transects spaced approximately 32 feet apart; and (5) at least 3 times covering the entire site.

Palm Springs round-tailed ground squirrel focused survey results are included in Appendix G.

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 16 Chapter 2 Study Methods

Palm Springs Pocket Mouse A live trapping survey to determine the presence or absence of the Palm Springs pocket mouse (Perognathus longimembris bangsi) was performed during two trap sessions. Field protocol for the Palm Springs pocket mouse requires that trapping occur no later than August 1; however, the extension of the deadline was approved by the USFWS (McDonald 2001). A known Palm Springs pocket mouse locality was also trapped during the first trap session to confirm that this species was still active above ground in the project region.

Sixteen trap lines of varying configuration were established in and immediately adjacent to the survey area. A total of 1,875 traps were set during the 7-night trapping effort. Trap lines were set at night in all sections of potentially suitable habitat in the BSA, with higher concentrations of traps in areas with the highest potential for this pocket mouse. Traps were set in meandering trap lines placed in specific locations to maximize capture probability (e.g., at burrow entrances, near sign, or in areas with particularly high-quality soils). Folding nine-inch Sherman live box traps (with modified doors to reduce tail amputations) were set to a hair trigger and baited with mixed bird seed (with high millet content) at dusk and checked near sunrise. All small mammals trapped were identified to species and released at the site of capture.

Palm Springs pocket mouse focused survey results are included in Appendix H.

2.2.5. Jurisdictional Delineation The analysis presented in the jurisdictional delineation is supported by field surveys and verification of current conditions. While in the field, jurisdictional areas were recorded onto a base map at a scale of 1" = 250' using the topographic contours and visible landmarks as guidelines. Data points were obtained with a Garmin 62 Ground Positioning System (GPS) Map62 in order to record and identify specific ordinary high water marks (OHWM), soil pits, picture locations, and drainage features.

USACE jurisdictional wetlands are delineated using the methods outlined in the Regional Supplement to the Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual: Arid West Region, Version 2.0 (USACE 2008). This document is one of a series of Regional Supplements to the 1987 Corps Wetland Delineation Manual. Identification of wetlands is based on a three-parameter approach involving indicators of hydrophytic vegetation, hydric soil, and wetland hydrology. In order to be considered a wetland, an area must exhibit at least minimal characteristics within these three parameters. The Regional Supplement presents wetland indicators, delineation

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 17 Chapter 2 Study Methods

guidance, and other information that is specific to the Arid West Region. It should be noted that both the RWQCB and the CDFW jurisdictional wetlands encompass those of the USACE.

In the absence of wetlands, the limits of the USACE’s jurisdiction in non-tidal waters extend to the OHWM. An OHWM can be determined by the observation of a natural line impressed on the bank; shelving; changes in the character of the soil; destruction of terrestrial vegetation; presence of litter and debris; wracking; vegetation matted down, bent, or absent; sediment sorting; leaf litter disturbed or washed away; scour; deposition; multiple observed flow events; bed and banks; water staining; and/or change in plant community. The RWQCB shares the USACE’s jurisdictional methodology, unless isolated waters or non-navigable waters that have a significant nexus to a traditional navigable waterway are present. In the presence of isolated conditions, the RWQCB and CDFW take jurisdiction through the application of the OHWM/streambed and/or the 3-parameter wetland methodology utilized by the USACE. In the case of non-navigable waterways, the RWQCB considers such drainages to be jurisdictional waters of the State. The CDFW’s jurisdiction extends to the top of bank of the stream/channel or to the limit (outer dripline) of the adjacent riparian vegetation.

Swales or erosional features (e.g., gullies, small washes characterized by low volume, infrequent, or short duration flow) and ditches (including roadside ditches) excavated wholly in, and draining only, uplands and that do not carry a relatively permanent flow of water, are generally not considered jurisdictional waters.

The Jurisdictional Delineation is included in Appendix I.

2.3. Personnel and Survey Dates

Botanist Scott White conducted vegetation mapping and general plant surveys on May 4, 5, and 14, 2001. Botanists Pam De Vries and Andrea Warniment conducted vegetation mapping and general plant surveys on December 6 and 13, 2005. Botanist Kai Palenscar updated vegetation mapping and general plant surveys on April 17, 2013. Biologists Brian Daniels and Amber Oneal conducted general wildlife surveys on May 2, 2001. Biologist Sam Stewart conducted general wildlife surveys on December 6, 2005. Biologist Agnieszka Napiatek conducted general wildlife surveys on April 17, 2013.

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 18 Chapter 2 Study Methods

Botanist Scott White conducted focused surveys for special status plants on May 4, 5, and 14, 2001. Mr. White, Ms. DeVries, and Ms. Warniment conducted focused surveys for special status plants on March 14, 23, and 29, 2006.

Biologist Marie Barrett conducted a focused survey for flat-tailed horned lizard on May 12, 2001. Mr. Stewart and biologist Dr. Mike Robson conducted focused surveys for flat-tailed horned lizard on May 23, 24, and 31; June 13 and 20; and August 30, 2006.

Biologists Mike Couffer, Danna Hinderle, Tim Kerns, Patty Kermoian, and Kip Kermoian conducted focused surveys for desert tortoise on May 28 and 29, 2001. Mr. Stewart and Dr. Robson conducted focused surveys for desert tortoise on May 19, 23, 24, and 31, 2006.

Mr. Couffer conducted a focused burrowing owl burrow survey on May 11, 2001. Mr. Stewart and Dr. Robson conducted focused burrow surveys on April 17 and 18, 2006, and focused owl surveys on April 17, and 18; May 19, 23, 24, and 31; June 13 and 20; and August 30, 2006.

Mr. Daniels and biologists Shanna Dodd and Brian Leatherman conducted focused surveys for Palm Springs round-tailed ground squirrel on July 23, 27, and 30, 2001. Mr. Stewart and Dr. Robson conducted focused surveys for Palm Springs round- tailed ground squirrel on May 23, 24, and 31; June 13 and 20; and July 31, 2006.

Biologists Steve Montgomery and Ms. Dodd conducted a live trapping survey for Palm Springs pocket mouse between July 10 through 14, 2001, and July 30 through August 2, 2001.

Regulatory specialists Lauren Mack and Chris Johnson conducted the jurisdictional delineation on April 30, 2013.

2.4. Agency Coordination and Professional Contacts

Matt MacDonald of the USFWS was consulted regarding the BSA determination and methods for the focused surveys conducted in 2001.

Scott Quinnell of Caltrans consulted with John DiGregoria of USFWS to discuss the focused surveys that would be required in 2006. Mr. Quinnell also provided Mr. DiGregoria and Ms. Kimberly Nichol of CDFW with the BSA boundary in October 2005.

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 19 Chapter 2 Study Methods

Caltrans received a list of species to be addressed in the NES for the proposed project from the USFWS on April 20, 2001. An updated species list was received from USFWS by Russell Williams of the Department on February 17, 2006. An updated species list was received from the USFWS on April 23, 2014, and the most recent updated list from the USFWS was obtained on April 4, 2016 (Appendix A).

2.5. Limitations That May Influence Results

The most recent vegetation mapping and general plant surveys (April 2013) were conducted following two years of below average rainfall. Therefore, many annual plant species may not have been detectable during the survey even though it was conducted in the spring. However, previous surveys were conducted in years with average or greater rainfall. The goal of the most recent vegetation mapping effort was to revalidate the results of the previous surveys and examine if any changes occurred since the BSA was previously mapped. Therefore, this limitation is not expected to influence the results.

The focused surveys and vegetation mapping in 2001 and 2006 did not include the disturbed center median due to lack of foot access. These areas were surveyed visually from across the ramps or from a vehicle. This limitation is not expected to influence the results.

Drought conditions have developed over the past four years in California. Evaluation of temporal shifts in vegetation and periodic lack of hydrology indicators during periods of below-normal rainfall, drought conditions, and unusually low winter snowpack is needed when delineating jurisdictional resources. Different sampling and analytical approaches for evaluating both vegetation under extended drought conditions and hydrology in drought years has been identified. To the extent possible, the hydrophytic vegetation decision is based on the plant community that is normally present during the wet portion of the growing season in a normal rainfall year. The evaluation of hydrology considers the timing of the site visit in relation to normal seasonal and annual hydrologic variability, and whether the amount of rainfall prior to the site visit has been normal. In drought conditions, direct observation of plants and hydrology indicators may be misleading or problematic, so other methods of making wetland decisions are appropriate. In general, wetland determinations on difficult or problematic sites must be based on the best information available to the field inspector, interpreted in light of his or her professional experience and knowledge of the ecology of wetlands in the region. Wetland determinations are based on a preponderance of all available information, including in many cases

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 20 Chapter 2 Study Methods

remote sensing and longer term data, not just the field data collected under drought conditions.1

It should also be noted that the USACE and Environmental Protection Agency have proposed new rules to delineation methodology and federal jurisdictional authority. At the time of the delineation report, the proposed rules have not been made final and therefore do not impact the report’s findings. Should new rules be approved prior to the start of construction the delineation would require an update to ensure consistency with the latest federal regulations.

1 Corps Sacramento District, Public Notice SPK-2014-00005, Guidance on Delineations in Drought Conditions, February 2014.

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 21

Chapter 3 Results: Environmental Setting

Chapter 3. Results: Environmental Setting

3.1. Description of the Existing Biological and Physical Conditions

3.1.1. Study Area The BSA was determined by including all areas that would be disturbed during construction and a buffer zone extending approximately 500 feet in an effort to include areas that may be directly, indirectly, or temporarily impacted by the proposed project (Figure 5). As the project has been redesigned, the BSA has been adjusted. In the southern and eastern tips of the project, the buffer extends less than 500 feet from the edge of the current project design, but still covers all areas subject to permanent and temporary ground disturbance with some buffer. Appendix J contains representative photographs of the BSA.

The BSA is located along I-10 in the Coachella Valley, and is generally surrounded by open space with private low density residential and agricultural land uses present 0.62 mile to the southwest. Through the City of Coachella, I-10 is a four-lane freeway with two lanes in each direction of travel; the terrain is rolling and the freeway grades vary from two to five percent in the vicinity of the proposed interchange.

Joshua Tree National Park is approximately 5 miles northeast of the BSA and the Coachella Valley Preserve is approximately 12.4 miles northwest of the BSA.

3.1.2. Physical Conditions The BSA is located at the eastern end of the Coachella Valley which is “a broad, low elevation, northwest-southeast trending valley comprising the westernmost limits of the Sonoran Desert” (CVAG 2007). The BSA is found on the Indio and Thermal Canyon U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) 7.5 x 15-minute quadrangle maps (Figure 6). Topographical features in the BSA include moderately steep hills north of I-10 and gentle hills south of the freeway, with an overall elevation range from approximately 220 to 500 feet above mean sea level (msl). Two unnamed alluvial washes cross through the BSA, generally flowing in a southwesterly direction after rain events. North of the BSA, the alluvial washes drain the Indio Hills. Northeast of the BSA, Smokey Gulch (the alluvial wash crossing the eastern portion of the BSA) drains East Double Canyon and West Double Canyon. The Coachella Canal, which provides water for irrigation purposes, is located approximately 0.62 mile southwest of the BSA.

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 23 Chapter 3 Results: Environmental Setting

The southern portion of the BSA (i.e., south of I-10) is relatively flat and consists primarily of several small washes sloping gently from northeast to southwest. Moderate levels of human disturbance are present in this area in the form of off-road vehicle tracks, dumping sites, and human footpaths.

The northern portion of the BSA (i.e., north of the I-10) is steep and rocky. Vegetation is very sparse on the steep slopes. There is less human disturbance to the north of I-10, with the exception of off-road vehicle tracks in the alluvial wash.

The following soil types are located in the BSA: Badland, Carsitas cobbly sand, Carsitas gravelly sand, and Chuckawalla very gravelly sandy clay loam (Figure 7). The northeastern portion of the BSA has no soil data available because the area has not been surveyed by the USGS.

During the spring 2013 surveys, it was noted that the general physical conditions of the BSA have not changed from the way they were previously described.

3.1.3. Biological Conditions in the Biological Study Area 3.1.3.1. VEGETATION TYPES The following vegetation types and other areas occur in the BSA: desert annual grassland, white bursage scrub, cheesebush scrub, allscale scrub, creosote bush scrub, creosote bush-white bur sage scrub, Mojave desert wash scrub, wand holdback (unique stand), disturbed/unvegetated, and developed (Table 1, Figure 8). Many of the vegetation types intergrade, especially in the transition areas between different types, and could generally be grouped together as variations of desert scrub. The section following the table describes each of the vegetation types and other areas observed in the BSA.

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 24 ¨¦§10

yon Can ble ou t D es W

Ea st Double Canyon

h Gulc 10 yon Can ¨¦§ key Smo

A ll A m e r ³ ic a n C a n Biological Study Area a l I-10/Avenue 50, Riverside County, California 600 300 0 600 Biological Study Area Feet PM 62.3 to PM 63.7 Drainage Aerial Source: ESRI May 2010 D8-RIV-10 EA 08-45210 Figure 5

E L G N E A L R G D N A A U R Q

D N A O U Y Q

N O A I C D

N L I

10 A

¨¦§ M R E H T

¨¦§10 ³ Topography

2,000 1,000 0 2,000 I-10/Avenue 50, Riverside County, California Feet PM 62.3 to PM 63.7 Source: USGS 7.5 Minute Quadrangle Biological Study Area Indio, CA D8-RIV-10 Thermal Canyon, CA EA 08-45210 Figure 6

Biological Study Area

Soil Type CoB CoB BA - Badland

ChC - Carsitas cobbly sand, 2 to 9 percent slopes BA

CdC - Carsitas gravelly sand, 0 to 9 percent slopes ChC CoB - Chuckawalla very gravelly sandy clay loam, 2 to 5 percent slopes

No Data

¨¦§10 BA

CdC

§10 BA ¨¦ ChC

BA A ll A m e r ic a n C a n a l CdC ³ Soil Types I-10/Avenue 50, Riverside County, California 600 300 0 600 Feet PM 62.3 to PM 63.7 Data Source: U.S. Department of Agriculture; Natural Resources Conservation Service D8-RIV-10 Aerial Source: ESRI May 2010 EA 08-45210 Figure 7

Biological Study Area

Vegetation Types and Other Areas

Desert Annual Grassland

White Bursage Scrub

Cheesebush Scrub

Allscale Scrub

Creosote Bush Scrub

Creosote Bush - White Bur Sage Scrub

Mojave Desert Wash Scrub

Wand Holdback (Unique Stand)

Disturbed/Unvegetated

Developed

¨¦§10

A ll A m e r ic a n C a n a l ³ Biological Resources I-10/Avenue 50, Riverside County, California 600 300 0 600 Feet PM 62.3 to PM 63.7

Aerial Source: ESRI May 2010 D8-RIV-10 EA 08-45210 Figure 8

Chapter 3 Results: Environmental Setting

Table 1 Vegetation Types in the Biological Study Area

Existing Vegetation Type (Acres) Desert annual grassland 106.93 White bursage scrub 5.75 Cheesebush scrub 24.74 Allscale scrub 32.05 Creosote bush scrub 75.93 Creosote bush – white bur sage scrub 123.70 Mojave desert wash scrub 47.10 Wand holdback (unique stand) 6.10 Disturbed/unvegetated 16.43 Developed 20.22 Total 458.95

Desert Annual Grassland The desert annual grassland vegetation type is dominated by six-weeks three-awn (Aristida adscensionis) and woolly plantain (Plantago ovata); these plants occur in large patches throughout the BSA. Scattered desert shrubs are present, but shrub cover is sparse overall (less than five percent); cacti are also scattered throughout this vegetation type and are more abundant north of I-10. The cactus species observed include California barrel cactus (Ferocactus cylindraceus), beavertail cactus (Opuntia basilaris var. basilaris), silver cholla (Opuntia echinocarpa), and pencil cactus (Opuntia ramosissima). South of I-10, this vegetation type occurs on hills that show signs of disturbance either due to erosion or past mechanical disturbance. Native species commonly occurring in this vegetation type include creosote bush (Larrea tridentata), desert-sunflower (Geraea canescens), buckwheat (Eriogonum sp.), phacelia (Phacelia sp.), brittlebush (Encelia farinosa), and wand holdback (Hoffmannseggia microphylla [Caesalpinia virgata]). Mediterranean grass (Schismus barbatus) and wild turnip (Brassica tournefortii) also occur occasionally. A corresponding vegetation type for desert annual grassland is not described in Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf (1995) or Holland (1986).

White Bursage Scrub The white bursage scrub vegetation type is dominated by white bur-sage (Ambrosia dumosa) and indigo-bush (Psorothamnus schottii); it is found on site in drainages north of I-10. Other native species commonly occurring in this vegetation type include California croton (Croton californicus), Spanish needles (Palafoxia arida), cheesebush (Ambrosia [Hymenoclea] salsola), and sweetbush (Bebbia juncea).

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 25 Chapter 3 Results: Environmental Setting

Palmer’s tiquilia (Tiquilia palmeri), smoke tree (Psorothamnus spinosus), creosote bush, honeysweet (Tidestromia suffruticosa var. oblongifolia), and brittlebush also occur occasionally. This vegetation type most closely resembles Sawyer and Keeler- Wolf’s (1995) description of the white bursage series and Holland’s (1986) Mojave Desert wash scrub.

Cheesebush Scrub The cheesebush scrub vegetation type is dominated by cheesebush and sweetbush and occurs mainly in the southeast portion of the BSA. Other native species commonly occurring in this vegetation type include smooth-stem fagonia (Fagonia laevis), Spanish needles, and honeysweet. Chia (Salvia columbariae), smallseed sandmat [golondrina] (Euphorbia [Chamaesyce] polycarpa), desert trumpet (Eriogonum inflatum), creosote bush, and white bur-sage also occasionally occur. A corresponding vegetation type for cheesebush scrub is not described in Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf (1995); this vegetation type somewhat resembles Holland’s (1986) Mojave creosote bush scrub.

Allscale Scrub The desert saltbush scrub vegetation type is made up of the allscale scrub alliance. It is dominated by allscale saltbush (Atriplex polycarpa) and desert-holly (Atriplex hymenelytra) and is present on site along the I-10 median and in patches north and south of the freeway. On some slopes adjacent to the freeway, this habitat is disturbed due to erosion. Native species commonly occurring in this vegetation type include four-wing saltbush (Atriplex canescens), Spanish needles, desert sunflower, woolly plantain, and cheesebush. White bur-sage, honeysweet, and brittlebush also occur occasionally. This vegetation type most closely resembles Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf’s (1995) descriptions of the allscale and desert holly series and Holland’s (1986) desert saltbush scrub.

Creosote Bush Scrub The creosote bush scrub vegetation type is dominated by creosote bush and covers large areas on site, mainly north of I-10. Other native species commonly occurring in this vegetation type include cheesebush, honeysweet, Spanish needles, wand holdback, white bur-sage, woolly plantain, and six-weeks three-awn. California barrel cactus, beavertail cactus, silver cholla, and pencil cactus also occur occasionally. Within washes, this vegetation type also includes brittlebush, desert lavender, sweetbush, indigo-bush, desert wishbone bush (Mirabilis laevis [bigelovii] var. villosa), and smooth-stem fagonia. This vegetation type most closely resembles

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 26 Chapter 3 Results: Environmental Setting

Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf’s (1995) description of the creosote bush series and Holland’s (1986) Sonoran creosote bush scrub.

Creosote Bush  White Bur Sage Scrub The creosote bush – white bur sage scrub vegetation type is dominated by creosote bush and indigo-bush and covers much of the southwest portion of the BSA. Other native species commonly occurring in this vegetation type include white bur-sage, California croton, honeysweet, sweetbush, and allscale saltbush. Spanish needles, four-wing saltbush, and brittlebush also occasionally occur. This vegetation type most closely resembles Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf’s (1995) description of the creosote bush series and Holland’s (1986) Sonoran creosote bush scrub.

Mojave Desert Wash Scrub The Mojave desert wash scrub vegetation type is a mix of the blue palo verde- ironwood woodland, desert lavender scrub, and smoke tree woodland alliances. It is dominated by blue paloverde (Parkinsonia florida [Cercidium floridum ssp. floridum]), desert lavender (Condea [Hyptis] emoryi), and smoke tree. It is found on site along braided channels. Other native species commonly occurring in this vegetation type include sweetbush, Spanish needles, cheesebush, indigo-bush, brittlebush, and wand holdback. Desert tobacco (Nicotiana obtusifolia), desert-holly, ocotillo (Fouquieria splendens ssp. splendens), desert star-vine (Brandegea bigelovii), and creosote bush also occur occasionally. A corresponding vegetation type for desert wash scrub is not described in Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf (1995); this vegetation type most closely resembles Holland’s (1986) Mojave Desert wash scrub.

Wand Holdback (Unique Stand) An area near the northeast portion of the BSA supports a unique stand of wand holdback, a special status habitat (CDFG 2010). This vegetation type is dominated by wand holdback; other native species commonly occurring include six-weeks three-awn and woolly plantain. California barrel cactus, beavertail cactus, buckwheat, phacelia, and brittlebush occasionally occur. Little is known about wand holdback (unique stand), and this vegetation type has not previously been identified in the Coachella Valley. This vegetation type usually occurs on rather steep hills and rocky eroded slopes in extremely hot, dry conditions and typically includes a very low (about two percent) shrub cover. The CDFW is only aware of about three such stands located in Anza Borrego (Keeler-Wolf 2005). It is not known whether current, future, or reasonably foreseeable actions are currently threatening this vegetation type. A

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 27 Chapter 3 Results: Environmental Setting

corresponding vegetation type for wand holdback (unique stand) is not described in Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf (1995) or Holland (1986).

Other Areas Disturbed/Unvegetated Disturbed areas support less than ten percent plant cover, due mainly to mechanical disturbance. Disturbed areas in the BSA include cut slopes adjacent to the north side of I-10 and linear areas south of the freeway that have been mechanically cleared of vegetation.

Naturally unvegetated areas in the BSA include steep cliff faces located north of I-10, which have exposed substrate and support only minimal plant cover.

Developed Developed areas do not support any vegetation; the ground in these areas is covered with concrete or pavement. Developed areas in the BSA include I-10 and an unmaintained paved road located parallel to and south of the freeway.

3.1.3.2. WILDLIFE Fish There is no temporary or permanent water present within the BSA. Therefore, no fish species are expected to occur due to lack of suitable habitat.

Amphibians There is no temporary or permanent water present in or adjacent to the BSA. Therefore, no amphibian species are expected to occur due to lack of suitable habitat.

Reptiles Reptilian diversity and abundance typically varies with vegetation type and character. Some species prefer only one or two vegetation types; however, most will forage in a variety of habitats. Most species occurring in open areas use rodent burrows for cover, protection from predators, and extreme weather conditions.

Reptile species observed in the BSA during surveys include desert iguana (Dipsosaurus dorsalis), zebra-tailed lizard (Callisaurus draconoides), side-blotched lizard (Uta stansburiana), long-tailed brush lizard (Urosaurus graciosus), desert horned lizard (Phrynosoma platyrhinos), western whiptail (Aspidoscelis tigris), coachwhip (Masticophis flagellum), and sidewinder (Crotalus cerastes). Other common species with potential to occur include western banded gecko (Coleonyx

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 28 Chapter 3 Results: Environmental Setting

variegatus), shovel-nosed snake (Chionactis occipitalis), and gopher snake (Pituophis catenifer).

Birds Several resident bird species are expected to occur in the BSA using the habitats throughout the year. Other species are present only during certain seasons. For example, the western kingbird (Tyrannus verticalis) is expected to occur during the breeding season (i.e., spring and summer) and will then migrate south in the winter.

Resident bird species observed in the BSA during surveys included greater roadrunner (Geococcyx californicus), black-tailed gnatcatcher (Polioptila melanura), verdin (Auriparus flaviceps), Gambel’s quail (Callipepla gambelii), common ground dove (Columbina passerina), Say’s phoebe (Sayornis saya), common raven (Corvus corax), rock wren (Salpinctes obsoletus), northern mockingbird (Mimus polyglottos), lesser nighthawk (Chordeiles acutipennis), cliff swallow (Petrochelidon pyrrhonota), and house finch (Carpodacus mexicanus). Signs (scat, white wash, pellets, feathers) of burrowing owls were also observed.

A variety of migrant species are expected to occur in the BSA and are present for only part of the year such as the white-crowned sparrow (Zonotrichia leucophrys), which was observed in the BSA. Winter visitors expected to occur include the ruby- crowned kinglet (Regulus calendula), yellow-rumped warbler (Dendroica coronata), and white-crowned sparrow. Migrants that arrive in spring and are expected to stay and breed in the BSA include Costa’s hummingbird (Calypte costae), ash-throated flycatcher (Myiarchus cinerascens), and hooded oriole (Icterus cucullatus). Many migrants are expected to pass through the BSA on their way north or south including Vaux’s swift (Chaetura vauxi), western wood-pewee (Contopus sordidulus), warbling vireo (Vireo gilvus), Nashville warbler (Vermivora ruficapilla), Wilson’s warbler (Wilsonia pusilla), western tanager (Piranga ludoviciana), black-headed grosbeak (Pheucticus melanocephalus), and lazuli bunting (Passerina amoena).

Raptor species with potential to occur in the BSA include ferruginous hawk (Buteo regalis), red-tailed hawk (Buteo jamaicensis), American kestrel (Falco sparverius), and prairie falcon (Falco mexicanus). These species are expected to forage in the BSA, and American kestrel and prairie falcon may nest in the BSA.

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 29 Chapter 3 Results: Environmental Setting

Mammals Mammals in the Coachella Valley have evolved ways of coping with the harsh environment. Most are nocturnal; however, several smaller mammals are able to withstand daytime summer temperatures.

Small mammal species that were trapped in the BSA during Palm Springs pocket mouse trapping included Merriam’s kangaroo rat (Dipodomys merriami), desert pocket mouse (Chaetodipus penicillatus), San Diego pallid mouse (Perognathus fallax pallidus), long-tailed pocket mouse (Chaetodipus formosus), spiny pocket mouse (Chaetodipus spinatus), deer mouse (Peromyscus maniculatus), cactus mouse (Peromyscus eremicus), San Diego desert wood rat (Neotoma lepida), and white- tailed antelope squirrel (Ammospermophilus leucurus). Mammal species observed during general wildlife surveys and other focused surveys include the black-tailed jackrabbit (Lepus californicus) and coyote (Canis latrans). Other mammal species potentially occurring in the BSA include desert shrew (Notiosorex crawfordi), Botta’s pocket gopher (Thomomys bottae), and California desert cottontail (Sylvilagus audubonii).

Bats occur throughout most of southern California and may use any portion of the BSA as foraging habitat. Cavities in cliffs, trees, and man-made structures (e.g., bridges and culverts) in the vicinity may provide potential roosting opportunities for several bat species. Most of the bats that could potentially occur in the BSA are inactive during the winter and either hibernate or migrate, depending on the species. Yuma myotis (Myotis yumanensis), California myotis (Myotis californicus), and yellow bat (Lasiurus xanthius) may occur in the BSA for foraging and roosting.

3.1.3.3. WILDLIFE MOVEMENT Wildlife corridors link together areas of suitable wildlife habitat that are otherwise separated by rugged terrain, changes in vegetation, or human disturbance. The fragmentation of open space areas by urbanization creates isolated “islands” of wildlife habitat. In the absence of habitat linkages that allow movement to adjoining open space areas, various studies have concluded that some wildlife species (especially the larger and more mobile mammals) will not likely persist over time in fragmented or isolated habitat areas because they prohibit the infusion of new individuals and genetic information (MacArthur and Wilson 1967; Soule 1987; Harris and Gallagher 1989; Bennett 1990). Corridors mitigate the effects of this fragmentation by (1) allowing wildlife to move between remaining habitats, thereby permitting depleted populations to be replenished and promoting genetic exchange;

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 30 Chapter 3 Results: Environmental Setting

(2) providing escape routes from fire, predators, and human disturbances, thus reducing the risk that catastrophic events (such as fire or disease) will result in population or local species extinction; and (3) serving as travel routes for individual animals as they move in their home ranges in search of food, water, mates, and other necessary resources (Noss 1983; Farhig and Merriam 1985; Simberloff and Cox 1987; Harris and Gallagher 1989).

Wildlife movement activities usually fall into one of three movement categories: (1) dispersal (e.g., juvenile animals from natal areas or individuals extending range distributions); (2) seasonal migration; and (3) movements related to home range activities (e.g., foraging for food or water, defending territories, or searching for mates, breeding areas, or cover). A number of terms such as “wildlife corridor,” “travel route”, “habitat linkage”, and “wildlife crossing” have been used in various wildlife movement studies to refer to areas where wildlife move from one area to another. To clarify the meaning of these terms and to facilitate the discussion on wildlife movement in this analysis, these terms are defined below.

A travel route is a landscape feature (such as a ridgeline, drainage, canyon, or riparian strip) within a larger natural habitat area that is used frequently by wildlife to facilitate movement and to provide access to necessary resources (e.g., water, food, cover, den sites). The travel route is generally preferred because it provides the least amount of topographic resistance in moving from one area to another. It contains adequate food, water, and/or cover while moving between habitat areas and provides a relatively direct link between target habitat areas.

A wildlife corridor is a piece of habitat, usually linear in nature, that connects two or more habitat patches that would otherwise be fragmented or isolated from one another. Wildlife corridors are usually bound by urban land areas or other areas unsuitable for wildlife. The corridor generally contains suitable cover, food, and/or water to support species and to facilitate movement while in the corridor. Larger, landscape-level corridors, often referred to as “habitat or landscape linkages”, can provide both transitory and resident habitat for a variety of species.

A wildlife crossing is a small, narrow area, relatively short in length and generally constricted in nature that allows wildlife to pass under or through an obstacle or barrier that otherwise hinders or prevents movement. Crossings are typically man- made and include culverts, underpasses, drainage pipes, and tunnels to provide access across or under roads, highways, pipelines, or other physical obstacles. These often

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 31 Chapter 3 Results: Environmental Setting

represent “choke points” along a movement corridor, which may impede wildlife movement and increase the risk of predation.

It is important to note that, in a large open space area where there are few or no man- made or naturally occurring physical constraints to wildlife movement, wildlife corridors, as defined above, may not yet exist. Given an open space area that is both large enough to maintain viable populations of species and to provide a variety of travel routes (e.g., canyons, ridgelines, trails, riverbeds, and others), wildlife will use these “local” routes while searching for food, water, shelter, and mates and will not need to cross into other large open space areas. Based on their size, location, vegetative composition and availability of food, some of these movement areas (e.g., large drainages and canyons) are used for longer lengths of time and serve as source areas for food, water and cover, particularly for small- and medium-sized wildlife. This is especially true if the travel route is in a larger open space area. However, once open space areas become constrained and/or fragmented as a result of urban development or construction of physical obstacles (e.g., roads and highways), the remaining landscape features or travel routes that connect the larger open space areas can “become” corridors as long as they provide adequate space, cover, food and water, and do not contain obstacles or distractions (e.g., man-made noise, lighting) that would generally hinder wildlife movement.

The alluvial wash and culverts passing beneath I-10 in the BSA are presumably used as wildlife crossings between habitat to the north and south of I-10. Smokey Gulch, the wash that crosses beneath I-10 in the eastern portion of the site, is at least 40 feet wide at its narrowest point allowing uninhibited movement for larger mammal species. The nearest crossing of this size in the vicinity of the BSA connecting areas of native habitat is approximately 2.8 miles to the east. In the area of the BSA, wildlife corridors may not be defined because the surrounding area is primarily open space and is currently relatively unfragmented by development. The wash is expected to become a wildlife corridor in the future when future developments are constructed.

3.1.3.4. AQUATIC RESOURCES Essential fish habitat (EFH) includes all types of aquatic habitat—wetlands, coral reefs, seagrasses, rivers—where fish spawn, breed, feed, or grow to maturity. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Fisheries works with the regional fishery management councils to identify the essential habitat for every life stage of each federally managed species using the best available scientific information. EFH has been described for approximately 1,000 managed species to

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 32 Chapter 3 Results: Environmental Setting

date. The NOAA Fisheries and the councils also identified more than 100 habitat areas of particular concern (HAPCs). These are considered high priority areas for conservation, management, or research because they are rare, sensitive, stressed by development, or important to ecosystem function (NOAA 2013). No EFH or HAPCs (areas protected from fishing) are located in the BSA. No federally listed species subject to consultation with the NOAA Fisheries jurisdiction are present in the BSA.

3.1.3.5. INVASIVE SPECIES Executive Order 13112 requires Federal agencies to address how their projects would affect the spread of invasive species. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) issued guidance directing the use of the State of California List of Noxious Weed Species to comply with a NEPA analysis for a given project. This current list was reviewed to determine which of the species on the list were observed in the BSA. Although not mandated by FHWA guidance, the California Invasive Plant Council’s (Cal-IPC’s) Invasive Plant Inventory (Cal-IPC 2014) was also reviewed to further assess the potential impacts of the project on the introduction and spread of invasive species. The plant compendium from the 2006 special status plant surveys was used because this was the most recent plant compendium focusing on the BSA.

None of the plant species listed under Pest Rating A or B on the State of California List of Noxious Weed Species were observed in the BSA. Two plant species with a pest rating of C—Russian thistle (Salsola tragus) and Bermuda grass (Cynodon dactylon)—were observed in the BSA. Pest Ratings B and C leave the eradication, containment, control, or other holding action at the discretion of the County.

Eight plant species occurring on Cal-IPC’s Invasive Plant Inventory were observed in the BSA. Two of these species are rated as “High”: Saharan mustard (Brassica tournefortii) and tamarisk (Tamarisk ramosissima). Species in the “High” category 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. Four of these species are rated as “Moderate”: Bermuda grass, hare barley (Hordeum murinum), London rocket (Sisymbrium irio), and wild oat (Avena fatua). According to Cal-IPC (2014), moderate 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

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 33 Chapter 3 Results: Environmental Setting

establishment is generally dependent upon ecological disturbance. Ecological amplitude and distribution may range from limited to widespread.”

Two of these species are rated as “Limited”: athel (Tamaryx aphylla) and Russian thistle. Limited 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” (Cal-IPC 2014).

3.2. Regional Species and Habitats of Concern

The CV MSHCP is a regional plan that protects 240,000 acres of native desert communities in the Coachella Valley. The CDFW issued the Natural Community Conservation Plan permit for the CV MSHCP on September 9, 2008, and the USFWS issued the final permit for the MSHCP on October 1, 2008. The MSHCP “balances environmental protection and economic development objectives in the Plan Area and simplifies compliance with endangered species related laws” (CVAG 2007). It currently covers 27 species; a Reserve System will be established within 21 Conservation Areas based on occurrences of 27 natural communities that provide habitat for the Covered Species. The BSA is located in the MSHCP Area, but is located outside of all Conservation Areas (CVAG 2007).

3.2.1. Special Status Vegetation Types In addition to providing an inventory of special status plant and wildlife species, the CNDDB also provides an inventory of vegetation types that are considered special status by State and federal resource agencies, academic institutions, and various conservation groups (such as the CNPS). Determination of the level of sensitivity is based on the number and size of remaining occurrences as well as recognized threats (e.g., proposed developments, habitat degradation, and invasion by non-native species).

One special status vegetation type, Mojave desert wash scrub, is present in the BSA (Figure 8). This vegetation type is considered rare and worthy of consideration by the CNDDB (CDFG 2010).

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 34 Chapter 3 Results: Environmental Setting

3.2.2. Special Status Species A total of 23 special status plant species and 29 special status wildlife species are reported in the project vicinity (Tables 2 and 3). One special status plant, Mecca aster (Xylorhiza cognata) was observed in the BSA (Figure 9). Sixteen special status wildlife species were either observed or have potential to occur in the BSA (Figure 9). These species will be discussed in more detail in Chapter 4.

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 35

Biological Study Area

Species Locations ## Burrowing Owl (2006) Mecca-aster (2006)

Desert Tortoise Burrow (2006)

Desert Tortoise Sign (2001)

Palm Springs Pocket Mouse (2001)

## # # ## ## ¨¦§10 ## ³ Special Status Species Locations I-10/Avenue 50, Riverside County, California 700 350 0 700 Feet PM 62.3 to PM 63.7

Aerial Source: ESRI May 2010 D8-RIV-10 EA 08-45210 Figure 9

Chapter 3 Results: Environmental Setting

Table 2 Special Status Plant Species Known to Occur in the Project Region

Status Habitat Rationale Present (P)/ (Potential for Species to Coverage under Scientific Name Common Name USFWS CDFW CRPR General Habitat Description Absent (A) Occur) the CV MSHCP Abronia villosa var. aurita chaparral sand-verbena – – 1B.1 Occurs in sandy places in coastal-sage scrub, A Not expected to occur; lack Not covered chaparral between sea level and 5,249 feet above msl; of suitable habitat; not Known from central and south of South Coast in the observed during 2001 or Sonoran Desert (Baldwin et al. 2012). 2006 focused surveys. Astragalus insularis var. harwoodii Harwood’s milk-vetch – – 2B.2 Occurs in sandy or gravelly areas between sea level P Not expected to occur; Not covered and 1,600 feet above msl in Sonoran Desert, Arizona, suitable habitat, but not and northwestern Mexico (Baldwin et al. 2012). observed during 2001 or 2006 focused surveys. Astragalus lentiginosus var. coachellae Coachella Valley milk- FE – 1B.2 Occurs in sand between sea level and 2,130 feet P Not expected to occur; Covered vetch above msl in the Sonoran Desert (Ecoregion includes suitable habitat, but not Coachella Valley) (Baldwin et al. 2012). observed during 2001 or 2006 focused surveys. Astragalus preussii var. laxiflorus Lancaster milk-vetch – – 1B.1 Occurs in alkaline clay flats, gravelly, or sandy washes A Not expected to occur; Not covered in chenopod scrub at elevation up to 2,100 feet above outside known geographic msl; known from Antelope Valley areas near Lancaster range; not observed during and Edwards AFB. One historic record (1920) from 2001 or 2006 focused Coachella Valley (Baldwin et al. 2012). surveys. Astragalus sabulonum gravel milk-vetch – – 2B.2 Occurs in sand and gravel between 164 and 2,952 feet A Not expected to occur; Not covered above msl between sea level and 6,561 feet above outside known elevational msl; known from the desert portions of California, range; not observed during Utah, New Mexico, and northern Mexico (Baldwin et 2001 or 2006 focused al. 2012). surveys. Astragalus tricarinatus triple-ribbed milk-vetch FE – 1B.2 Occurs on exposed rocky slopes and canyon walls A Not expected to occur; Covered along desert washes between 1,475 and 4,100 feet outside known elevational above msl. The ecoregion includes the San range; not observed during Bernardino Mountains (Whitewater, Morongo Valley) 2001 or 2006 focused and the Desert along the mountains’ adjacent edges surveys. (Baldwin et al. 2012). Ayenia compacta California ayenia – – 2B.3 Occurs in sandy and gravelly washes and dry canyons P Not expected to occur; Not covered between 328 and 3,805 feet above mean sea level. suitable habitat, but not Known from the Peninsular Ranges (desert slope), observed during 2001 or Desert Mountains (Providence, Eagle Mountains), 2006 focused surveys. Western and Central Sonoran Desert; southwestern Arizona; and Baja California, Mexico (Baldwin et al. 2012). Bursera microphylla little-leaf elephant tree – – 2B.3 Occurs on rocky slopes between sea level and 2,296 P Not expected to occur; Not covered feet above mean sea level. Its ecoregion includes the suitable habitat, but not western edge of the Sonoran Desert (east San Diego, observed during 2001 or west Imperial, Riverside Counties.) east to Arizona 2006 focused surveys. and Mexico (Baldwin et al. 2012). Ditaxis claryana glandular ditaxis – – 2B.2 Occurs in sandy soils and creosote-bush scrub P Not expected to occur; Not covered between sea level and 328 feet above msl. Its suitable habitat, but not ecoregion includes the Sonoran Desert (Coachella observed during 2001 or Valley) (Baldwin et al. 2012). 2006 focused surveys. Ditaxis serrata var. californica California ditaxis – – 3.2 Occurs in washes and canyons between 164 and P Not expected to occur; Not covered 3,280 feet above msl. Its ecoregion includes Eagle suitable habitat, but not Mountain in the Mojave Desert and the northwest observed during 2001 or Sonoran Desert (Coachella Valley) (Baldwin et al. 2006 focused surveys. 2012).

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 37 Chapter 3 Results: Environmental Setting

Table 2 Special Status Plant Species Known to Occur in the Project Region

Status Habitat Rationale Present (P)/ (Potential for Species to Coverage under Scientific Name Common Name USFWS CDFW CRPR General Habitat Description Absent (A) Occur) the CV MSHCP Leptosiphon [Linanthus] floribundus ssp. Santa Rosa Mountains – – 1B.3 Occurs in desert canyons between 3,280 and 6,562 A Not expected to occur; lack Not covered hallii leptosiphon feet above msl. Its ecoregion includes the Santa Rosa of suitable habitat; not Mountains in the eastern Peninsular Ranges (Baldwin observed during 2001 or et al. 2012). 2006 focused surveys. Mentzelia tridentata creamy blazing star – – 1B.3 Occurs in creosote-bush scrub between 2,296 and A Not expected to occur; Not covered 4,265 feet above msl. Its ecoregion includes the outside known elevational central Mojave Desert (Baldwin et al. 2012). range; not observed during 2001 or 2006 focused surveys. Nemacaulis denudata var. gracilis slender cottonheads – – 2B.2 Occurs in deserts between 32 and 1,640 feet above P Not expected to occur; Not covered [woolly-heads] msl in Southwestern California, the Sonoran Desert, suitable habitat; not Arizona, and northwestern Mexico (Baldwin et al. observed during 2001 or 2012). 2006 focused surveys. Phaseolus filiformis Slender-stem bean – – 2B.1 Occurs in washes at about 410 feet above msl. Its P Not expected to occur; Not covered ecroregion includes the Sonoran Desert (Coachella suitable habitat, but not Valley, Riverside County) (Baldwin et al. 2012). observed during 2001 or 2006 focused surveys. Pseudorontium [Antirrhinum] Deep Canyon snapdragon – – 2B.3 Occurs in washes and rocky slopes between sea level P Not expected to occur; Not covered cyathiferum and 2,624 above msl. Its ecoregion includes the west suitable habitat, but not Sonoran Desert (Deep Canyon, Riverside County), observed during 2001 or southern Arizona, and northwestern Mexico (Baldwin 2006 focused surveys. et al. 2012). Saltugilia latimeri Latimer’s woodland gilia – – 1B.2 Occurs on dry desert slopes and coarse sand to rocky A Not expected to occur; Not covered soils between 1,312 and 6,233 feet above msl. It is outside known elevational known from the Transverse Ranges, Peninsular range; not observed during Ranges, and the Desert (Baldwin et al. 2012). 2001 or 2006 focused surveys. Salvia greatae Orocopia sage – – 1B.3 Occurs on alluvial slopes between 98 and 1,476 feet P Not expected to occur; Covered above msl. Its ecoregion includes the Sonoran Desert suitable habitat, but not (Orocopia, Chocolate Mountains). (Baldwin et al. observed during 2001 or 2012). 2006 focused surveys. Selaginella eremophila desert spike-moss – – 2B.2 Occurs at shaded sites in sandy or gravelly soils, at P Not expected to occur; Not covered the base of rocks, and in cracks between sea level and suitable habitat, but not 3,608 feet above msl. Its ecoregion includes the east observed during 2001 or Peninsular Ranges and the Sonoran Desert, to 2006 focused surveys. Arizona, and northern Mexico (Baldwin et al. 2012). Senna covesii Coves’ cassia – – 2B.2 Occurs in dry, sandy desert washes and slopes A Not expected to occur; Not covered between 682 and 1,294 feet above msl. Its ecoregion outside known elevational includes the Sonoran Desert, southern Nevada, range; not observed during southwestern New Mexico, and Baja California, 2001 or 2006 focused Mexico (Baldwin et al. 2012). surveys. Stemodia durantifolia purple stemodia – – 2B.1 Occurs in riparian habitats, on wet sand or rocks, and P Not expected to occur; Not covered in drying streambeds from sea level to 1,312 feet suitable habitat; not above msl. Its ecoregion includes Peninsular Ranges, observed during 2001 or the western Sonoran Desert, Arizona, and Texas to 2006 focused surveys. South America (Baldwin et al. 2012). Xylorhiza cognata Mecca-aster – – 1B.2 Occurs in arid canyons, washes, and creosote-bush P Observed (Figure 9); suitable Covered scrub between sea level and 1,312 feet above msl. Its habitat. ecoregion includes the Sonoran Desert (Imperial, Riverside Counties) (Baldwin et al. 2012).

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 38 Chapter 3 Results: Environmental Setting

Table 2 Special Status Plant Species Known to Occur in the Project Region

Status Habitat Rationale Present (P)/ (Potential for Species to Coverage under Scientific Name Common Name USFWS CDFW CRPR General Habitat Description Absent (A) Occur) the CV MSHCP Wislizenia refracta ssp. palmeri Palmer’s jackass clover – – 2B.2 Occurs in sandy washes, dunes, and desert scrub A Not expected to occur, no Not covered between sea level and 426 feet above msl. Its suitable habitat; not ecoregion includes the Sonoran Desert and observed during 2001 or northwestern Mexico (Baldwin et al. 2012). 2006 focused surveys.

Wislizenia refracta ssp. refracta jack-ass clover – – 2B.2 Occurs in sandy washes, roadsides, and alkaline flats A Not expected to occur; Not covered between 295 and 3,805 feet above msl. Its ecoregion outside known elevational includes the south Mojave Desert and the north range; not observed during Sonoran Desert (Baldwin et al. 2012). 2001 or 2006 focused surveys. USFWS: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service; CDFW: California Department of Fish and Wildlife; CRPR: California Rare Plant Rank; msl: mean sea level; BSA: biological study area. STATUS DESIGNATIONS Federal (USFWS) Designations FE Listed by the federal government as an endangered species CRPR (California Native Plant Society) 1A Plants presumed extinct in California 1B Plants rare, threatened, or endangered in California and elsewhere 2A Plants that are presumed extirpated from California, but more common elsewhere 2B Plants rare, threatened, or endangered in California, but more common elsewhere 3 Plants about which we need more information – A Review List CRPR Threat Code Extensions None Plants lacking any threat information .1 Seriously endangered in California (over 80% of occurrences threatened; high degree and immediacy of threat) .2 Fairly endangered in California (20-80% of occurrences threatened) .3 Not very endangered in California (less than 20% of occurrences threatened or no current threats known) a Habitat descriptions from Jepson Online 2012; Elevations generally from Jepson Online 2012

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 39

Chapter 3 Results: Environmental Setting

Table 3 Special Status Wildlife Species Known to Occur in the Project Region

Status Habitat Rationale Common General Habitat Present (P)/ (Potential for Species to Coverage Under CV Scientific Name Name USFWS CDFW Description Absent (A) Occur) MSHCP Invertebrates Occurs in desert scrub, alluvial terraces, and Casey’s June washes on Carsitas soils; Outside known range; not Dinacoma caseyi FE – A Not covered beetle restricted to locations expected to occur. within the Palm Canyon alluvial floodplain. Occurs in aeolian sand hummocks and dunes with perennial shrubs including creosote bush, white bur- Coachella giant Macrobaenetes sage, honey mesquite Lack of suitable habitat; sand treader – – A Covered valgum (Prosopis glandulosa), not expected to occur. cricket Mormon tea (Ephedra sp.), desert willow (Chilopsis linearis), and/or sandpaper plant (Petalonyx thurberi). Fish Occurs in springs, marshes, lakes, and pools lack of suitable habitat; Cyprinodon macularius desert pupfish FE SE A Covered of creeks, usually over mud not expected to occur. or sand. Reptiles Suitable habitat, but not expected to occur. Not Occurs in semi-arid observed in the BSA grasslands, desert washes, during 2001 and 2006 Gopherus agassizi desert tortoise FT ST and sandy canyon bottoms P focused surveys; however Covered between sea level and sign was observed 3,500 feet above msl. outside the outermost transect during focused surveys.

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 41 Chapter 3 Results: Environmental Setting

Table 3 Special Status Wildlife Species Known to Occur in the Project Region

Status Habitat Rationale Common General Habitat Present (P)/ (Potential for Species to Coverage Under CV Scientific Name Name USFWS CDFW Description Absent (A) Occur) MSHCP Suitable habitat, but not Occurs in sandy flats and expected to occur. Not valleys with sparse observed in the BSA flat-tailed horned Phrynosoma mcallii – SCE/SSC creosote bush, white bur- P during 2001 and 2006 Covered lizard sage, and/or mixed focused surveys, but Sonoran desert scrub. occurrences within 2 miles. Occurs in aeolian sand dunes and hummocks with Coachella Valley Lack of suitable habitat; Uma inornata FT SE widely spaced desert A Covered fringe-toed lizard not expected to occur. shrubs, particularly creosote bush. Birds SSC Forages over open habitats (burrow such as grasslands and flat Suitable foraging and sites and to low rolling hills in P (foraging) nesting habitat; observed Athene cunicularia burrowing owl – Covered some treeless terrain; also found P (nesting) in 2006 (Figure 9) and wintering in burrows along banks sign observed in 2013. sites) and roadsides. Limited potential to occur Occurs in open grasslands, for foraging in winter; sagebrush flats, desert limited marginally suitable scrub, low foothills WL P (foraging) foraging habitat; not Buteo regalis ferruginous hawk – surrounding valleys, and Not covered (wintering) A (nesting) expected to occur for fringes of pinyon-juniper nesting; does not nest in habitats. Winters in California. May occur Antelope Valley California. during migration. Requires dense riparian Empidonax traillii southwestern SE habitats (cottonwood/willow Not expected to occur; FE A Covered. extimus willow flycatcher (nesting) and tamarisk vegetation) lack of suitable habitat for nesting. Potentially suitable Occurs in grasslands, open WL P (foraging) foraging and nesting Falco mexicanus prairie falcon – areas. Nests on cliff Not covered (nesting) P (nesting) habitat; observed and ledges. may occur for nesting.

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 42 Chapter 3 Results: Environmental Setting

Table 3 Special Status Wildlife Species Known to Occur in the Project Region

Status Habitat Rationale Common General Habitat Present (P)/ (Potential for Species to Coverage Under CV Scientific Name Name USFWS CDFW Description Absent (A) Occur) MSHCP Suitable habitat; observed SSC Occurs in grasslands and Lanius ludovicianus loggerhead shrike – P during 2001 and 2006 Not covered (nesting) other dry, open habitats. surveys. Occurs in arroyos, desert washes, and thorny Suitable habitat is black-tailed Polioptila melanura _ WL scrublands featuring P present. This species was Not covered gnatcatcher mesquite, creosote bush, observed during surveys. ocotillo, and cactus. Nests and forages in desert riparian areas, vermilion SSC Lack of suitable habitat; Pyrocephalus rubinus – including irrigated fields, A Not covered flycatcher (nesting) not expected to occur. ditches, ponds, and sloughs. Occurs in riparian and freshwater marsh habitat Rallus longirostris (cattails, bulrush, Not expected to occur; Yuma clapper rail FE ST A Covered yumanensis mudflats). Requires lack of suitable habitat freshwater marshes to breed. Occurs in desert succulent Bendire’s Outside known range; not Toxostoma bendirei – SSC shrub and Joshua tree A Not covered thrasher expected to occur. vegetation. Nests and forages in dense thickets of shrubs, low Marginally suitable habitat Toxostoma crissale Crissal thrasher – SSC trees of desert riparian, P Covered Limited potential to occur. and dense sage scrub in washes. Nests and forages in sparsely vegetated desert Le Conte’s Suitable habitat; may Toxostoma lecontei – SSC flats, dunes, alluvial fans, P Covered thrasher occur. or hills with saltbush and/or cholla. Occurs in moist thickets and riparian areas that are Not expected to occur; Vireo belli pusilus least Bell's vireo FE SE A Covered predominantly composed lack of suitable habitat. of willow and mulefat.

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 43 Chapter 3 Results: Environmental Setting

Table 3 Special Status Wildlife Species Known to Occur in the Project Region

Status Habitat Rationale Common General Habitat Present (P)/ (Potential for Species to Coverage Under CV Scientific Name Name USFWS CDFW Description Absent (A) Occur) MSHCP Lack of suitable habitat; Occurs in tules and cattails Xanthocephalus yellow-headed SSC not expected to occur, – around marshy edges of A Not covered xanthocephalus blackbird (nesting) although it may occur lakes. during migration. Mammals Occurs in forests, woodlands, brushy terrain, Suitable foraging and rocky canyons, farmland, P (foraging) roosting habitat; may Antrozous pallidus pallid bat – SSC and desert. Roosts in rock Not covered P (roosting) occur for foraging and crevices, old buildings, roosting. bridges, caves, mines, and hollow trees. Occurs in pinyon-juniper Chaetodipus fallax pallid San Diego woodland, desert scrub, Suitable habitat; may – SSC P Not covered pallidus pocket mouse and agave-ocotillo habitat occur. on rocky desert slopes. Occurs in a variety of semi- arid to arid habitats, including desert scrub, Suitable foraging and grasslands, coastal sage Eumops perotis western mastiff P (foraging) roosting habitat; may – SSC scrub, chaparral, oak Not covered californicus bat P (roosting) occur for foraging and woodland, pine forests, roosting. and agricultural areas; roosts in crevices on cliff faces and buildings. western yellow Occurs in palm oases; A (foraging) Lack of suitable habitat; Lasiurus xanthinus – SSC Covered bat roosts in palm trees. A (roosting) not expected to occur. Occurs on rocky slopes, Ovis canadensis desert [Nelson’s] Outside known range; not -- --/FP cliffs, canyons, washes, A Not covered nelsoni bighorn sheep expected to occur. and alluvial fans. Occurs on rocky slopes, Ovis canadensis Peninsular Outside known range; not FE ST/FP cliffs, canyons, washes, A Covered nelsoni DPS bighorn sheep expected to occur. and alluvial fans.

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 44 Chapter 3 Results: Environmental Setting

Table 3 Special Status Wildlife Species Known to Occur in the Project Region

Status Habitat Rationale Common General Habitat Present (P)/ (Potential for Species to Coverage Under CV Scientific Name Name USFWS CDFW Description Absent (A) Occur) MSHCP Occurs in creosote scrub Potentially suitable and chaparral with rocky Nyctinomops pocketed free- P (foraging) foraging and roosting – SSC outcroppings; roosts in Not covered femorosaccus tailed bat P (roosting) habitat; may occur for rock crevices, cliffs, caves, foraging and roosting. and buildings. Occurs on sandy flats and Suitable habitat; observed Perognathus Palm Springs – SSC hummocks with sparse to P during 2001 trapping Covered longimembris bangsi pocket mouse moderate vegetative cover. surveys. Suitable habitat, but not expected to occur. Not Palm Springs Occurs in open, flat, desert observed during 2001 or Xerospermophilus [Coachella Valley] areas with fine sandy soils, – SSC P 2006 focused surveys, Covered tereticaudus chlorus round-tailed grasses, and/or desert but observed in the ground squirrel succulent shrubs. vicinity of the BSA (Quinnell 2007). Suitable habitat and Occurs in grasslands and expected to occur; burrow Taxidea taxus American badger – SSC other open habitats with P Not covered was incidentally observed friable, uncultivated soils. during 2001 surveys. USFWS: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service; CDFW: California Department of Fish and Wildlife; CV MSHCP: Coachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan

STATUS DEFINITIONS Federal Designations (USFWS): FE Listed by the federal government as an Endangered species FT Listed by the federal government as a Threatened species

State Designations (CDFW): SE Listed as Endangered by the State of California ST Listed as Threatened by the State of California SCE Candidate as Endangered by the State of California SSC Species of Special Concern FP Fully Protected WL Watch List

Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan: Covered Species: The CV MSHCP provides authorization under the Federal and California Endangered Species Acts that allows the “take” of Covered Species, including loss of their habitat, if the project is consistent with the MSHCP requirements.

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 45

Chapter 4 Results: Biological Resources, Discussion of Impacts and Mitigation

Chapter 4. Results: Biological Resources, Discussion of Impacts and Mitigation

The determination of impacts in this analysis is based on a comparison of maps depicting proposed project ROW limits, which are assumed to be the permanent impact boundary and maps of biological resources in the BSA. All construction activities (including borrow, disposal, staging, and access areas) are assumed to be contained within the permanent or temporary impact areas or within existing roadways (Tables 4 and 5; Figures 10 and 11). Permanent impacts are assumed to be impacts that would permanently convert existing natural communities and habitats to paved roadways and structures. Temporary impacts would include impacts of a short- term nature. All areas subject to temporary impacts will be dry seeded following construction with a native seed mix that is representative of the existing vegetative community at this location. Both direct and indirect impacts on biological resource have been evaluated. Direct effects are those that involve the initial loss of biological resources due to grading and construction. Indirect effects are impacts on species and/or their habitat that may occur some distance away from the project site or may occur later in time. Indirect effects may include areas not directly impacted by the project. Examples of indirect effects may include noise; vehicular-related mortality from increased traffic; changes in drainage or erosion patterns; or introduction of invasive or exotic species. Biological impacts associated with the proposed project were evaluated with respect to the following:

 Federally or State-listed Endangered or Threatened species of plant or wildlife.

 Streambeds, wetlands, and their associated vegetation.

 Habitats suitable to support a federally or State-listed Endangered or Threatened species of plants or wildlife.

 Species designated as California Species of Special Concern.

 Habitat, other than wetland, considered special status by regulatory agencies (USFWS, CDFW, Riverside County) or resource conservation organizations.

 The CV MSHCP.

 Other species or issues of concern to regulatory agencies or conservation organizations.

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 47 Chapter 4 Results: Biological Resources, Discussion of Impacts and Mitigation

The criteria for determining substantial impacts on biological resources were developed based on Caltrans’ Guidelines for a Natural Environment Study (NES). In accordance with the guidelines for an NES, the following language will be used to describe the magnitude of impacts in this document:

 No substantial effect.

 Less than substantial effect.

 Substantial effect.

 Likely to benefit. Tables 4 and 5 show vegetation types potentially impacted by the proposed Alternative 3 and Alternative 4. As shown below, Alternative 4 due to the tighter footprint, would result in overall less impacts to the desert native vegetation communities. Table 4 Vegetation Types and Other Areas Impacted By Alternative 3

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 48 Biological Study Area

Species Locations ## Burrowing Owl (2006) Mecca-aster (2006)

Palm Springs Pocket Mouse (2001)

Alternative 3 Impacts

Permanent

Temporary

Vegetation Types and Other Areas

Desert Annual Grassland

White Bursage Scrub

Cheesebush Scrub

Allscale Scrub

Creosote Bush Scrub

Creosote Bush - White Bur Sage Scrub 10 Mojave Desert Wash Scrub ¨¦§

Wand Holdback (Unique Stand)

Disturbed/Unvegetated

Developed

## ## ## ## ¨¦§10

A ll A m e r ic a n ## C ## a n a l ³ I-10/Avenue 50, Riverside County, California 600 300 0 600 Feet PM 62.3 to PM 63.7

Aerial Source: ESRI May 2010 D8-RIV-10 EA 08-45210

Biological Study Area

Species Locations ## Burrowing Owl (2006) Mecca-aster (2006)

Palm Springs Pocket Mouse (2001)

Alternative 4 Impacts

Permanent

Temporary

Vegetation Types and Other Areas

Desert Annual Grassland

White Bursage Scrub

Cheesebush Scrub

Allscale Scrub

Creosote Bush Scrub

Creosote Bush - White Bur Sage Scrub 10 Mojave Desert Wash Scrub ¨¦§

Wand Holdback (Unique Stand)

Disturbed/Unvegetated

Developed

## ## ## ## ¨¦§10

A ll A # m ## e r ic a n C a n a l ³ I-10/Avenue 50, Riverside County, California 600 300 0 600 Feet PM 62.3 to PM 63.7

Aerial Source: ESRI May 2010 D8-RIV-10 EA 08-45210

Chapter 4 Results: Biological Resources, Discussion of Impacts and Mitigation

Table 5 Vegetation Types and Other Areas Impacted By Alternative 4

Permanent Temporary Project Project Total Project Vegetation Type and Other Existing Impact Impact Impact Areas (Acres) (Acres) (Acres) (Acres) Desert annual grassland 106.93 5.69 36.01 41.70 White bursage scrub 5.75 0.40 2.72 3.12 Cheesebush scrub 24.74 0.20 2.06 2.26 Allscale scrub 32.05 1.95 20.16 22.11 Creosote bush scrub 75.93 0.77 9.82 10.59 Creosote bush – white bur 123.70 2.51 9.04 11.55 sage scrub Mojave desert wash scrub 47.10 1.28 4.25 5.53 Wand holdback (unique stand) 6.10 0.00 0.00 0.00 Disturbed/unvegetated 16.43 0.39 3.66 4.05 Developed 20.22 2.96 10.47 13.43 Total 458.95 16.15 98.19 114.34

4.1. Natural Communities of Special Concern

In addition to providing an inventory of special status plant and wildlife species, the CNDDB also provides an inventory of vegetation types that are considered special status by the State and federal resource agencies, academic institutions, and various conservation groups. Mojave desert wash scrub is the only special status vegetation type present in the BSA.

4.1.1. Discussion of Mojave Desert Wash Scrub 4.1.1.1. SURVEY RESULTS A total of 47.10 acres of this vegetation type occur within the BSA.

4.1.1.2. AVOIDANCE AND MINIMIZATION EFFORTS Prior to the initiation of any grading and/or construction-related activity involving the disturbance and/or removal of any vegetation associated with project implementation, the project proponent shall install fencing, flagging, steel poles and rope, or other device to delineate the maximum limits disturbance acceptable to and under the supervision of a qualified biological monitor. The purpose of the fencing is to protect Mojave desert wash scrub and other vegetation types from inadvertent disturbance.

The biological monitor shall be present on site during the initial vegetation clearing as well as on an as-needed basis to assist the project proponent in complying with the project mitigation and to provide guidance in avoiding and/or minimizing impacts on

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 49 Chapter 4 Results: Biological Resources, Discussion of Impacts and Mitigation

biological resources. The biological monitor shall periodically check the fencing; and shall notify the Construction Supervisor if it needs to be repaired.

After project construction, all areas subject to temporary impacts shall be dry seeded with a native seed mix that is representative of the existing vegetative community at this location. The dry seed mix shall be submitted to Caltrans for review and approval by a qualified biologist.

4.1.1.3. PROJECT IMPACTS Alternative 3 would impact 5.50 acres (1.29 acres permanent, 4.21 acres temporary) of this vegetation type and Alternative 4 would impact 5.53 acres (1.28 acres permanent, 4.25 acres temporary) of this vegetation type. Drainages “E” and “E-1” in the jurisdictional delineation are vegetated with Mojave desert wash scrub.

4.1.1.4. COMPENSATORY MITIGATION Prior to initiation of construction, the City of Coachella shall obtain all necessary permits for impacts to RWQCB, and CDFW jurisdictional areas. Mitigation for the loss of jurisdictional resources shall be negotiated with the resource agencies during the regulatory permitting process and shall ensure that mitigation to compensate for permanent impacts on jurisdictional resources is equivalent or superior to biological functions and values impacted by the proposed project. Potential mitigation options may include (1) removal of exotic species; (2) payment to a mitigation bank or regional riparian enhancement program; and/or (3) restoration of Mojave desert wash scrub either on site or off site at a ratio of no less than 1:1, determined through consultation with the RWQCB and the CDFW. If restoration is selected, a Mojave Desert Wash Scrub Restoration Plan shall be prepared by a qualified restoration biologist. The Restoration Plan shall include the following:

a. Responsibilities and qualifications of the personnel to implement and supervise the plan. The responsibilities of the City of Coachella, Restoration Biologist, and Landscape Maintenance Contractor that would supervise and implement the plan will be specified.

b. Site selection. The site for the mitigation will be determined in coordination with the City of Coachella and the resource agencies. The site will be located in a dedicated open space area and will be contiguous with other natural open space.

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 50 Chapter 4 Results: Biological Resources, Discussion of Impacts and Mitigation

c. Site preparation and planting implementation. The site preparation will include: 1) protection of existing native species; 2) trash and weed removal; 3) native species salvage and reuse (i.e. duff); 4) soil treatments (i.e., imprinting, decompacting); 5) temporary irrigation installation; 6) erosion- control measures (i.e., rice or willow wattles); 7) seed mix application; and 8) container species.

d. Schedule. A schedule will be developed which includes planting to occur in late fall and early winter, between October 1 and January 30.

e. Maintenance plan/guidelines. The maintenance plan will include: 1) weed control; 2) herbivory control; 3) trash removal; 4) irrigation system maintenance; 5) maintenance training; and 6) replacement planting.

f. Monitoring Plan. The monitoring plan will include: 1) qualitative monitoring (i.e., photographs and general observations); 2) quantitative monitoring (i.e., randomly placed transects); 3) performance criteria as approved by the resource agencies; 4) monthly reports for the first year and bimonthly reports (i.e., every other month) thereafter; and 5) annual reports which will be submitted to the resource agencies for three to five years. The site will be monitored and maintained for five years to ensure successful establishment of riparian habitat within the restored and created areas; however, if there is successful coverage prior to five years, the City of Coachella may request from USACE and CDFW to be released from monitoring requirements.

g. Long-Term Preservation. Long-term preservation of the site will be outlined in the conceptual mitigation plan to ensure the mitigation site is not impacted by future development.

h. Performance standards will be identified and will apply for the restoration of riparian habitat. Revegetation will be considered successful at three years if the percent cover and species diversity of the restored and/or created habitat areas are similar to percent cover and species diversity of adjacent existing habitats, as determined by quantitative testing of existing and restored and/or created habitat areas.

4.1.1.5. CUMULATIVE IMPACTS The purpose of the CV MSHCP is to prioritize native desert habitat areas for conservation. A total of 40,549 acres of desert dry wash vegetation occurs in the CV

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 51 Chapter 4 Results: Biological Resources, Discussion of Impacts and Mitigation

MSHCP area; 30,716 acres would be conserved within Conservation Areas designated by the CV MSHCP (CVAG 2007). The proposed project is not located within a Conservation Area. The proposed project would impact up to 5.53 acres of Mojave desert wash scrub vegetation that would contribute to the regional loss of this natural community. The Project is named as a Covered Project in Section 7.2.3 of the CVAG Regional Road Projects. As such, CVAG is contributing $30 million of Measure A funds to Plan implementation to help accomplish the Permittees’ mitigation obligation. This payment meets the mitigation needs for transportation projects defined in Section 7.2.3; no other mitigation payment is required of the City of Coachella. These funds will contribute to conservation of high-quality native habitat within CV MSHCP Conservation Areas to mitigate for the loss of this natural community. Therefore, cumulative impacts would be considered adverse but mitigated by participation in the CV MSHCP.

4.2. Special Status Plant Species

Twenty-three special status plant species are known to occur in the region and are listed in Table 2. Of these, mecca-aster is the only special status plant species that occurs in the BSA and is discussed below. Species not expected to occur would not be impacted and are therefore not discussed.

4.2.1. Discussion of Mecca-Aster Mecca-aster has a California Rare Plant Rank (CRPR) of 1B.2 and is a Covered species under the CV MSHCP. This perennial herb typically blooms between January and June (CNPS 2014). It is found on gypsum clays in creosote bush scrub habitat (Munz 1974). It occurs in arid canyons from approximately 65 to 1,312 feet above msl (Baldwin et al. 2012). Mecca-aster is endemic to the Indio Hills and the Mecca Hills; it typically occurs in these fluvial hills in washes and along the lower slopes (CVAG 2007). It is known from Riverside and Imperial counties (CNPS 2014). It is known to occur from the Coachella Valley Preserve east along the base of the Indio Hills; most of the known occurrences are along roads or well-traveled hiking routes (CVAG 2007).

4.2.1.1. SURVEY RESULTS This species was incidentally observed the BSA during vegetation mapping in 2005 and also during focused surveys in 2006. Six individuals were observed within the BSA during focused surveys (Figure 9, Appendix C). This species was observed adjacent to Mojave desert wash scrub habitat on a northwest-facing slope, disturbed by erosion, leading down from the northern edge of I-10. The plants were located on

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 52 Chapter 4 Results: Biological Resources, Discussion of Impacts and Mitigation

a steep slope with loose sandy soil and abundant rocks and cobbles. Associated species included indigo-bush, white bur-sage, creosote bush, honeysweet, and Spanish needles.

4.2.1.2. AVOIDANCE AND MINIMIZATION EFFORTS No avoidance and minimization measures would be required.

4.2.1.3. PROJECT IMPACTS Both alternatives would impact the Mecca-aster location, consisting of six individuals, observed in the BSA.

4.2.1.4. COMPENSATORY MITIGATION This species is Covered under the CV MSHCP. Therefore, no mitigation would be required.

4.2.1.5. CUMULATIVE IMPACTS The purpose of the CV MSHCP is to prioritize native desert habitat areas for conservation. A total of 63,163 acres of modeled habitat for this species occurs within the CV MSHCP area; 54,667 acres would be conserved by the CV MSHCP (CVAG 2007). The proposed project is not located in a Conservation Area. The proposed project would impact one location of six individuals of Mecca-aster that would contribute to the regional loss of this plant species. The Project is named as a Covered Project in Section 7.2.3 of the CVAG Regional Road Projects. As such, CVAG is contributing $30 million of Measure A funds to Plan implementation to help accomplish the Permittees’ mitigation obligation. This payment meets the mitigation needs for transportation projects defined in Section 7.2.3; no other mitigation payment is required of the City of Coachella. These funds will contribute to conservation of high-quality native habitat within CV MSHCP Conservation Areas to mitigate for the loss of this species. Therefore, cumulative impacts would be considered adverse but mitigated by participation in the CV MSHCP.

4.3. Special Status Animal Species

Table 3 shows special status wildlife species with potential to occur in the biological study area. Only those species with the potential to occur in the BSA and or observed are discussed. Species not expected to occur would not be impacted.

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 53 Chapter 4 Results: Biological Resources, Discussion of Impacts and Mitigation

4.3.1. Discussion of the Desert Tortoise Desert tortoise is a federal and State Threatened species and is a Covered species under the CV MSHCP. The desert tortoise occurs in semi-arid grasslands, desert washes, and sandy canyon bottoms between sea level and 3,500 feet above msl. The desert tortoise’s range in California has been reduced 50 to 60 percent since the 1920s and is now highly fragmented. Much of the tortoise’s habitat is degraded by a combination of human-related activities, including livestock grazing, energy and mineral development, and off-highway vehicle use. In addition, illegal shooting and collecting directly reduce the tortoise population. The desert tortoise continues to suffer from severe population losses due to disease and predation on juvenile tortoises, particularly by ravens.

4.3.1.1. SURVEY RESULTS The desert tortoise was not observed in the BSA during the 2001 or 2006 focused surveys; however, a collapsed burrow and shell remains were located on the 2,400 foot ZOI transect in 2001 (Figure 9, Appendix E). In 2006, two potentially active burrows were observed outside the outermost ZOI (Figure 9, Appendix E); therefore the desert tortoise is known to occur in the surrounding project vicinity.

4.3.1.2. AVOIDANCE AND MINIMIZATION EFFORTS Although the desert tortoise was not observed in the BSA, the following avoidance and minimization measures described below would ensure that if desert tortoises are observed during construction, impacts to the species would be minimized.

• A qualified desert tortoise biologist will be present during all construction activities. The qualified biologist will conduct on site monitoring and daily preconstruction surveys of all work areas. The entire project work area will be surveyed daily for desert tortoise and their burrows before the start of any ground-disturbing activities. If burrows are found, they will be examined by the qualified biologist to determine if desert tortoises are present. The qualified desert tortoise biologist will accompany any crew or person involved in that activity and shall have the authority to halt any activity, through the Resident Engineer or other identified authority in charge of implementation that may pose a threat to desert tortoises and to direct movements of equipment and personnel to avoid injury or mortality to desert tortoise. The qualified biologist and project personnel shall carefully check under parked vehicles or equipment for desert tortoises before moving any vehicles or equipment. Desert tortoises found within the staging and/or construction areas

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 54 Chapter 4 Results: Biological Resources, Discussion of Impacts and Mitigation

will be allowed to move away from such areas to a location away from danger, on their own accord. Project activities shall re-commence only once the desert tortoise is safely outside the project areas or required protected areas. If it is deemed necessary to relocate a tortoise or an injured or dead tortoise is observed, all construction activities will be halted and Caltrans and the State and Federal Wildlife Agencies will be contacted immediately for direction.

• All personnel involved in the construction of the project shall receive desert tortoise protection training. Training shall include the discussion of the fragility of desert habitats, the importance of the desert tortoise to the environment, the protections afforded to the desert tortoise by the California and Federal Endangered Species Act, and the correct protocol to follow should a desert tortoise be encountered.

• Project personnel shall carefully check under parked vehicles or equipment for desert tortoises. Desert tortoises found within the staging or construction areas will be allowed to move out of the construction area, on their own accord. Project activities within such area shall re-commence only once the desert tortoise is safely outside of the project area.

• Beyond the project boundaries, no vegetation disturbance will be allowed. Litter control measures will be implemented. Litter will be contained in containers to prevent attracting common ravens or other potential predators of the desert tortoise. Workers are prohibited from feeding all wildlife.

• If it is determined that a staging area is needed, temporary desert tortoise fencing will be installed around any staging areas located on the highway. All staging areas will be located on previously disturbed areas and will be designated by the designate biological monitor.

• Upon locating a dead or injured tortoise within a project site, the Resident Engineer will immediately notify the authorized biologist whom then will notify the USFWS within 24 hours of the observation via telephone. Written notification must be made to the appropriate Fish and Wildlife field office within 5 days of the finding. The information provided must include the date and time of the finding or incident (if known), location of the carcass or injured animal, a photograph, cause of death or injury, if known, and other

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 55 Chapter 4 Results: Biological Resources, Discussion of Impacts and Mitigation

pertinent information (i.e., size, sex, recommendations to avoid future injury or mortality).

4.3.1.3. PROJECT IMPACTS This species was not observed within the BSA during focused surveys; therefore, with the implementation of the avoidance and minimization measures listed above, impacts to this species would be avoided.

4.3.1.4. COMPENSATORY MITIGATION No compensatory mitigation would be required. The CV MSHCP mitigates for impacts on the desert tortoise.

4.3.1.5. CUMULATIVE IMPACTS The purpose of the CV MSHCP is to prioritize native desert habitat areas for conservation. A total of 512,533 acres of modeled habitat for this species occurs within the CV MSHCP area; 491,810 acres would be conserved by the CV MSHCP (CVAG 2007). The proposed project is not located within a Conservation Area and would not impact occupied habitat; therefore, it would not contribute to cumulative impacts on this species. The Project is named as a Covered Project in Section 7.2.3 of the CVAG Regional Road Projects. As such, CVAG is contributing $30 million of Measure A funds to Plan implementation to help accomplish the Permittees’ mitigation obligation. This payment meets the mitigation needs for transportation projects defined in Section 7.2.3; no other mitigation payment is required of the City of Coachella. These funds will contribute to conservation of high-quality native habitat within CV MSHCP Conservation Areas. Therefore, cumulative impacts would be mitigated by participation in the CV MSHCP.

4.3.2. Discussion of the Flat-tailed Horned Lizard Flat-tailed horned lizard is a State Candidate for Endangered status and is a Covered species under the CV MSHCP. This species occurs in sandy flats and valleys with sparse creosote bush, white bur-sage, and mixed Sonoran desert scrub.

4.3.2.1. SURVEY RESULTS The flat-tailed horned lizard was not observed in the BSA during the 2001 or 2006 focused surveys; therefore, it is not expected to occur in the BSA. However, it has been reported from the surrounding project vicinity (within two miles of the BSA).

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 56 Chapter 4 Results: Biological Resources, Discussion of Impacts and Mitigation

4.3.2.2. AVOIDANCE AND MINIMIZATION EFFORTS No avoidance or minimization efforts have been proposed.

4.3.2.3. PROJECT IMPACTS This species was not observed within the BSA during focused surveys; therefore, there would be no impact on this species.

4.3.2.4. COMPENSATORY MITIGATION No compensatory mitigation would be required. The CV MSHCP mitigates for impacts on the flat-tailed horned lizard.

4.3.2.5. CUMULATIVE IMPACTS The purpose of the CV MSHCP is to prioritize native desert habitat areas for conservation. A total of 14,738 acres of modeled habitat for this species occurs within the CV MSHCP area; 13,908 acres would be conserved by the CV MSHCP (CVAG 2007). The proposed project is not located within a Conservation Area and would not impact occupied habitat; therefore, it would not contribute to cumulative impacts on this species. The Project is named as a Covered Project in Section 7.2.3 of the CVAG Regional Road Projects. As such, CVAG is contributing $30 million of Measure A funds to Plan implementation to help accomplish the Permittees’ mitigation obligation. This payment meets the mitigation needs for transportation projects defined in Section 7.2.3; no other mitigation payment is required of the City of Coachella. These funds will contribute to conservation of high-quality native habitat within CV MSHCP Conservation Areas. Therefore, cumulative impacts would be mitigated by participation in the CV MSHCP.

4.3.3. Discussion of the Burrowing Owl Burrowing owl is a California Species of Special Concern and is a Covered species under the CV MSHCP. In southern California, burrowing owls breed and forage in grasslands and prefer flat to low rolling hills in treeless terrain. They are small owls that nest in burrows, typically in open habitats. In the Coachella Valley, burrowing owls are scattered in low numbers on open terrain throughout the lowlands including open desert areas, fallow fields, irrigation dikes and levees, and wherever burrows (generally dug by ground squirrels) are available away from intense human activity (CVAG 2007). The burrowing owl population has declined due to habitat modification, poisoning of its prey items, shooting, and human disturbance (Remsen 1978). In the vicinity of the BSA, this species has been reported from the City of Coachella, Coachella Canal, and Indio (CDFW 2014a).

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 57 Chapter 4 Results: Biological Resources, Discussion of Impacts and Mitigation

4.3.3.1. SURVEY RESULTS Suitable foraging and nesting habitat for this species is present in the BSA. Four active burrowing owl burrows and one potentially active burrow were observed in the BSA during focused surveys (Figure 9, Appendix F). Four additional burrows were incidentally observed in the project vicinity during focused surveys in 2006, and Mr. Quinnell of Caltrans observed a few potential burrows north of I-10 within the BSA during a field visit on January 23, 2007 (Quinnell 2007). In 2013, several active burrows were observed within the BSA—primarily along Smokey Gulch. It should be noted that occupied burrows would be expected to change over time. Therefore, burrowing owl is known to occur in the BSA and in the immediate vicinity.

4.3.3.2. AVOIDANCE AND MINIMIZATION EFFORTS Fourteen days prior to construction activities, a qualified biologist will conduct a pre-construction survey to determine if there are any active burrowing owl burrows and if any avoidance and minimization measures will be required. A final pre- construction survey will be conducted within 24 hours prior to ground disturbance. If no active burrows are observed, construction work can proceed.

 If an active burrow is observed during the non-nesting season (September 1 to January 31) and the burrow is within the impact area, standard burrowing owl burrow closing procedures will be used to exclude burrowing owls (i.e., using passive relocation with one-way doors). Per recommendations from CDFG (1995), two artificial burrows will be provided for each burrow that is destroyed. The location of the artificial burrows will be determined in consultation with the CDFW.

 If an active burrow is observed during the non-nesting season (September 1 to January 31) and the burrow is not within the impact area, construction work will be restricted within 160 feet of the burrow (or as otherwise determined by the project biologist in consultation with the CDFW).

 If an active burrow is present and nesting is believed to be occurring during the nesting season (February 1 to August 31), construction work and access will be restricted within 250 feet of the burrow (or as otherwise determined by the project biologist in consultation with CDFW) until fledglings have left the burrow to ensure compliance with Section 3503.5 of the California Fish and Game Code. Results of the surveys will be provided to the CDFW.

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 58 Chapter 4 Results: Biological Resources, Discussion of Impacts and Mitigation

4.3.3.3. PROJECT IMPACTS Alternative 3 would impact 100.67 acres of suitable foraging habitat and Alternative 4 would impact 100.91 acres of suitable foraging habitat for this species; both alternatives would impact one of the burrows observed in the BSA during focused surveys (Tables 6 and 7, Figures 10 and 11). The project would contribute to the regional ongoing loss of raptor foraging habitat in the project region. However, the loss of foraging habitat for this species would be limited relative to the availability of similar habitat in the region.

Burrowing owls could nest in burrows in the BSA, most likely along the washes. Vegetation removal and/or nearby construction could adversely affect nesting efforts for this species. Construction during the breeding season could disturb nesting activities, possibly resulting in nest abandonment, loss of young, and reduced health and vigor of eggs and/or nestlings. Direct effects on an active burrowing owl burrow would be considered a violation of the California Fish and Game Code (Sections 3503, 3503.5, and 3513) and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.

Table 6 Project Impacts of Alternative 3 on the Burrowing Owl

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 59 Chapter 4 Results: Biological Resources, Discussion of Impacts and Mitigation

Table 7 Project Impacts of Alternative 4 on the Burrowing Owl

Permanent Temporary Total Project Project Project Vegetation Type and Other Existing Impact Impact Impact Areas (Acres) (Acres) (Acres) (Acres) Desert annual grassland 106.93 5.69 36.01 41.70 White bursage scrub 5.75 0.40 2.72 3.12 Cheesebush scrub 24.74 0.20 2.06 2.26 Allscale scrub 32.05 1.95 20.16 22.11 Creosote bush scrub 75.93 0.77 9.82 10.59 Creosote bush – white bur sage 123.70 2.51 9.04 11.55 scrub Mojave desert wash scrub 47.10 1.28 4.25 5.53 Wand holdback (unique stand) 6.10 0.00 0.00 0.00 Disturbed/unvegetated 16.43 0.39 3.66 4.05 Total 438.73 13.19 87.72 100.91

4.3.3.4. COMPENSATORY MITIGATION With implementation of the avoidance and minimization measures, no additional mitigation would be required. The CV MSHCP mitigates for impacts on the burrowing owl.

4.3.3.5. CUMULATIVE IMPACTS The purpose of the CV MSHCP is to prioritize native desert habitat areas for conservation. Of the 74 known locations in the planning area, a total of 41 locations would be conserved by the CV MSHCP (CVAG 2007). Additionally, this species would benefit from conservation of lands for the Coachella Valley milk- vetch, Palm Springs round-tailed ground squirrel, and Palm Springs pocket mouse. The proposed project is not located in a Conservation Area. The proposed project would impact up to 100.91 acres of foraging habitat and 1 burrow location that would contribute to the regional loss of this species. The Project is named as a Covered Project in Section 7.2.3 of the CVAG Regional Road Projects. As such, CVAG is contributing $30 million of Measure A funds to Plan implementation to help accomplish the Permittees’ mitigation obligation. This payment meets the mitigation needs for transportation projects defined in Section 7.2.3; no other mitigation payment is required of the City of Coachella. These funds will contribute to conservation of high-quality native habitat in CV MSHCP Conservation Areas to mitigate for the loss of this species. Therefore, cumulative impacts would be considered adverse but mitigated by participation in the CV MSHCP.

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 60 Chapter 4 Results: Biological Resources, Discussion of Impacts and Mitigation

4.3.4. Discussion of the Ferruginous Hawk Ferruginous hawk is a CDFW Watch List species. It frequents open countryside areas in western North America, and migrates north to Canada in summer and as far south as Mexico in winter. In California, ferruginous hawks winter in the Antelope Valley, foraging in open fields, often using power poles as perches. Their prey base includes ground squirrels, mice, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. The most recent record of the species is from 2016, approximately seven miles west of the BSA at Coachella Canal and Dillon Road (CDFW 2016).

4.3.4.1. SURVEY RESULTS Limited marginally suitable winter foraging habitat occurs in the BSA, which is used mostly while migrating. Therefore, ferruginous hawk has a limited potential to occur in the BSA for foraging while migrating. This species does not nest in the project region.

4.3.4.2. AVOIDANCE AND MINIMIZATION EFFORTS No avoidance and minimization measures would be required. However, the following measure regarding dry seeding of temporary disturbance areas would benefit this species by recreating the foraging habitat that was temporarily disturbed.

 After project construction, all areas subject to temporary impacts shall be dry seeded with a native seed mix that is representative of the existing vegetative community at this location. The dry seed mix shall be submitted to Caltrans for review and approval by a qualified biologist.

4.3.4.3. PROJECT IMPACTS The Project would not result in loss of breeding habitat. Ferruginous hawk may use the site while migrating north, but it is not known to nest in the area. Alternative 3 would impact 100.67 acres of suitable foraging habitat, and Alternative 4 would impact 100.91 acres of suitable foraging habitat for this species (Tables 8 and 9). The project would contribute to the regional ongoing loss of raptor foraging habitat in the project region. However, the loss of foraging habitat for this species would be limited relative to the availability of similar habitat in the region.

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 61 Chapter 4 Results: Biological Resources, Discussion of Impacts and Mitigation

Table 8 Project Impacts of Alternative 3 on the Ferruginous Hawk

Table 9 Project Impacts of Alternative 4 on the Ferruginous Hawk

Permanent Temporary Total Project Project Project Vegetation Type and Other Existing Impact Impact Impact Areas (Acres) (Acres) (Acres) (Acres) Desert annual grassland 106.93 5.69 36.01 41.70 White bursage scrub 5.75 0.40 2.72 3.12 Cheesebush scrub 24.74 0.20 2.06 2.26 Allscale scrub 32.05 1.95 20.16 22.11 Creosote bush scrub 75.93 0.77 9.82 10.59 Creosote bush – white bur sage 123.70 2.51 9.04 11.55 scrub Mojave desert wash scrub 47.10 1.28 4.25 5.53 Wand holdback (unique stand) 6.10 0.00 0.00 0.00 Disturbed/unvegetated 16.43 0.39 3.66 4.05 Total 438.73 13.19 87.72 100.91

4.3.4.4. COMPENSATORY MITIGATION No compensatory mitigation would be required because the species does not breed in California and the species is only potentially expected to forage in the area while migrating north.

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 62 Chapter 4 Results: Biological Resources, Discussion of Impacts and Mitigation

4.3.4.5. CUMULATIVE IMPACTS Although not addressed in the CV MSHCP, this species would benefit from regional conservation under the CV MSHCP. The CV MSHCP conserves 745,900 acres of habitat, including 27 vegetation types (CVAG 2007). The project would contribute to the loss of up to 100.91 acres of habitat for this species in the region. However, this amount is limited in comparison to the amount of habitat that would be conserved under the CV MSHCP. Therefore, the cumulative habitat loss would be considered adverse but less than substantial.

4.3.5. Discussion of the Prairie Falcon Prairie falcon is a CDFW Watch List species. This species is an uncommon resident in the arid interior of southern California and a rare visitor to the coastal slope (Garrett and Dunn 1981). In Riverside County, this species occurs in grasslands and scrub vegetation types, rangeland, desert scrub areas, and typically dry environments where there are cliffs and bluffs suitable for nests. Prairie falcons nest almost exclusively on cliffs (Clark and Wheeler 2001). This species is threatened by human disturbance at nest sites, shooting, and pesticides (Remsen 1978). There are multiple CNDDB records for this species in the vicinity of the BSA, but nest location information is suppressed (CDFW 2014a).

4.3.5.1. SURVEY RESULTS Potentially suitable foraging and nesting habitat for the prairie falcon is present in the BSA, and it was incidentally observed foraging in the BSA during surveys in 2006. Potentially suitable nesting habitat is present, and the prairie falcon may occur for nesting.

4.3.5.2. AVOIDANCE AND MINIMIZATION EFFORTS Seven days prior to construction activities, a qualified biologist will conduct a survey to determine if any raptors are nesting in or adjacent to the impact area. If nesting is not occurring, construction work can proceed. If an active nest is present, construction work will be restricted within 250 feet of the nest (or as otherwise determined by the project biologist) until fledglings have left the nest. Results of the surveys will be provided to the CDFW.

If nesting activity is present, the active site will be protected until nesting activity has ended to ensure compliance with Section 3503.5 of the California Fish and Game Code. Nesting activity for raptors in the region normally occurs from February 1 to June 30. To protect any nest site, the following restrictions on construction are required during the nesting season (or until nests are no longer active, as determined

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 63 Chapter 4 Results: Biological Resources, Discussion of Impacts and Mitigation

by a qualified biologist): Construction activities and access will not be allowed within 250 feet in any direction from any occupied nest; any encroachment into the buffer area around the known nest will only be allowed if it is determined by a qualified biologist that the proposed activity will not disturb the nest occupants.

In addition, the following measure regarding dry seeding of temporary disturbance areas would benefit this species by recreating the nesting and foraging habitat that was temporarily disturbed.

4.3.5.3. PROJECT IMPACTS Alternative 3 would impact 100.67 acres of suitable foraging habitat, and Alternative 4 would impact 100.91 acres of suitable foraging habitat for this species (Tables 10 and 11). The project would contribute to the regional ongoing loss of raptor foraging habitat in the project region. However, the loss of foraging habitat for this species would be limited relative to the availability of similar habitat in the region.

Prairie falcons could nest on cliffs in the BSA. Vegetation removal and/or nearby construction could adversely affect nesting efforts for this species. Construction during the breeding season could disturb nesting activities, possibly resulting in nest abandonment, loss of young, and reduced health and vigor of eggs and/or nestlings. Direct effects on an active prairie falcon nest would be considered a violation of the California Fish and Game Code (Sections 3503, 3503.5, and 3513) and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 64 Chapter 4 Results: Biological Resources, Discussion of Impacts and Mitigation

Table 10 Project Impacts of Alternative 3 on the Prairie Falcon

Table 11 Project Impacts of Alternative 4 on the Prairie Falcon

Permanent Temporary Total Project Project Project Vegetation Type and Other Existing Impact Impact Impact Areas (Acres) (Acres) (Acres) (Acres) Desert annual grassland 106.93 5.69 36.01 41.70 White bursage scrub 5.75 0.40 2.72 3.12 Cheesebush scrub 24.74 0.20 2.06 2.26 Allscale scrub 32.05 1.95 20.16 22.11 Creosote bush scrub 75.93 0.77 9.82 10.59 Creosote bush – white bur sage 123.70 2.51 9.04 11.55 scrub Mojave desert wash scrub 47.10 1.28 4.25 5.53 Wand holdback (unique stand) 6.10 0.00 0.00 0.00 Disturbed/unvegetated 16.43 0.39 3.66 4.05 Total 438.73 13.19 87.72 100.91

4.3.5.4. COMPENSATORY MITIGATION With the incorporation of avoidance and minimization measures listed above, no mitigation would be required.

4.3.5.5. CUMULATIVE IMPACTS Although not addressed in the CV MSHCP, this species would benefit from regional conservation under the CV MSHCP. The CV MSHCP conserves 745,900 acres of

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 65 Chapter 4 Results: Biological Resources, Discussion of Impacts and Mitigation

habitat, including 27 vegetation types (CVAG 2007). The proposed project would contribute to the loss of up to 100.91 acres of habitat for this species in the region. However, this amount is limited in comparison to the amount of habitat that would be conserved under the CV MSHCP. Therefore, the cumulative habitat loss would be considered adverse but less than substantial.

4.3.6. Discussion of the Loggerhead Shrike Loggerhead shrike is a California Species of Special Concern. This species is a fairly common resident of lowlands and foothills in southern California. Shrikes inhabit grasslands and other dry, open habitats. They can often be found perched on snags, fences and posts surveying the surrounding habitat for prey items (e.g., large insects, small mammals, and lizards). This species is threatened by habitat loss and pesticides (Ehrlich et al. 1988).

4.3.6.1. SURVEY RESULTS Potentially suitable foraging and nesting habitat for this species is present in the BSA. Loggerhead shrike was incidentally observed in the BSA during the 2001 and 2006 surveys.

4.3.6.2. AVOIDANCE AND MINIMIZATION EFFORTS If vegetation clearing would be conducted during the nesting season (February 1 to August 31), a qualified biologist will conduct a survey no more than three days prior to construction to determine whether any birds are nesting in or adjacent to the impact area. If nesting is not occurring, construction work can proceed. If an active nest is present, construction work will be restricted within a buffer area of 250 feet until fledglings have left the nest. Any encroachment into the buffer area around the known nest will only be allowed if it is determined by a qualified biologist that the proposed activity will not disturb the nest occupants.

In addition, the following measure regarding dry seeding of temporary disturbance areas would benefit this species by recreating the nesting and foraging habitat that was temporarily disturbed.

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 66 Chapter 4 Results: Biological Resources, Discussion of Impacts and Mitigation

4.3.6.3. PROJECT IMPACTS Alternative 3 would impact 96.61 acres of suitable habitat and Alternative 4 would impact 96.86 acres of suitable habitat for this species (Tables 12 and 13). The project would contribute to the regional ongoing loss of habitat in the project region. However, the loss of habitat for this species would be limited relative to the availability of similar habitat in the region.

Loggerhead shrike could nest in shrubs in the BSA. Vegetation removal and/or nearby construction could adversely affect nesting efforts for this species. Construction during the breeding season could disturb nesting activities, possibly resulting in nest abandonment, loss of young, and reduced health and vigor of eggs and/or nestlings. Direct effects on an active loggerhead shrike nest would be considered a violation of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.

Table 12 Project Impacts of Alternative 3 on the Loggerhead Shrike

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 67 Chapter 4 Results: Biological Resources, Discussion of Impacts and Mitigation

Table 13 Project Impacts of Alternative 4 on the Loggerhead Shrike

Permanent Temporary Total Project Project Project Vegetation Type and Other Existing Impact Impact Impact Areas (Acres) (Acres) (Acres) (Acres) Desert annual grassland 106.93 5.69 36.01 41.70 White bursage scrub 5.75 0.40 2.72 3.12 Cheesebush scrub 24.74 0.20 2.06 2.26 Allscale scrub 32.05 1.95 20.16 22.11 Creosote bush scrub 75.93 0.77 9.82 10.59 Creosote bush-white bur sage 123.70 2.51 9.04 11.55 scrub Mojave desert wash scrub 47.10 1.28 4.25 5.53 Wand holdback (unique stand) 6.10 0.00 0.00 0.00 Total 422.30 12.80 84.06 96.86

4.3.6.4. COMPENSATORY MITIGATION With the incorporation of avoidance and minimization measures listed above, no mitigation would be required.

4.3.6.5. CUMULATIVE IMPACTS Although not addressed in the CV MSHCP, this species would benefit from regional conservation under the CV MSHCP. The CV MSHCP conserves 745,900 acres of habitat, including 27 vegetation types (CVAG 2007). The proposed project would contribute to the loss of up to 96.86 acres of habitat for this species in the region. However, this amount is limited in comparison to the amount of habitat that would be conserved under the CV MSHCP. Therefore, the cumulative habitat loss would be considered adverse but less than substantial.

4.3.7. Discussion of the Black-Tailed Gnatcatcher Black-tailed gnatcatcher is a CDFW Watch list Species. This species occupies desert wash habitats between sea level and approximately 1,000 feet above msl from Palmdale Springs to Joshua Tree. It prefers arroyos, desert washes, and thorny scrublands with mesquite, creosote bush, ocotillo, and cactus. It nests primarily in wooded desert wash habitat, but also occurs sparingly in desert scrub habitat, especially in winter. This species was observed on site during the surveys. In the vicinity of the BSA, this species has historically been reported from Thermal and Coachella (1934, 1940 accounts; CDFW 2016).

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 68 Chapter 4 Results: Biological Resources, Discussion of Impacts and Mitigation

4.3.7.1. SURVEY RESULTS Suitable habitat for this species is present in the BSA. This species was observed in the BSA during surveys.

4.3.7.2. AVOIDANCE AND MINIMIZATION EFFORTS If vegetation clearing would be conducted during the nesting season (February 1 to August 31), a qualified biologist will conduct a survey no more than three days prior to construction to determine if any birds are nesting in or adjacent to the impact area. If nesting is not occurring, construction work can proceed. If an active nest is present, construction work will be restricted within a buffer area of 250 feet until fledglings have left the nest. Any encroachment into the buffer area around the known nest will only be allowed if it is determined by a qualified biologist that the proposed activity will not disturb the nest occupants.

In addition, the following measure regarding dry seeding of temporary disturbance areas would benefit this species by recreating the nesting and foraging habitat that was temporarily disturbed.

4.3.7.3. PROJECT IMPACTS Alternative 3 would impact 54.95 acres of suitable habitat, and Alternative 4 would impact 55.16 acres of suitable habitat for this species (Tables 14 and 15). The project would contribute to the regional ongoing loss of habitat in the project region. However, the loss of habitat for this species would be limited relative to the availability of similar habitat in the region.

Black-tailed gnatcatcher could nest in dense shrubs along washes in the BSA. Vegetation removal and/or nearby construction could adversely affect nesting efforts for this species. Construction during the breeding season could disturb nesting activities, possibly resulting in nest abandonment, loss of young, and reduced health and vigor of eggs and/or nestlings. Direct effects on an active black-tailed gnatcatcher would be considered a violation of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 69 Chapter 4 Results: Biological Resources, Discussion of Impacts and Mitigation

Table 14 Project Impacts of Alternative 3 on the Black-Tailed Gnatcatcher

Permanent Temporary Total Project Project Project Vegetation Type and Other Existing Impact Impact Impact Areas (Acres) (Acres) (Acres) (Acres) White bursage scrub 5.75 0.40 2.72 3.12 Cheesebush scrub 24.74 0.20 2.05 2.25 Allscale Scrub 32.05 1.98 20.12 22.10 Creosote bush scrub 75.93 0.77 9.82 10.59 Creosote bush – white bur sage 123.70 2.48 8.91 11.39 scrub Mojave desert wash scrub 47.10 1.29 4.21 5.50 Wand holdback (unique stand) 6.10 0.00 0.00 0.00 Total 315.37 7.12 47.83 54.95

Table 15 Project Impacts of Alternative 4 on the Black-Tailed Gnatcatcher

Permanent Temporary Total Project Project Project Vegetation Type and Other Existing Impact Impact Impact Areas (Acres) (Acres) (Acres) (Acres) White bursage scrub 5.75 0.40 2.72 3.12 Cheesebush scrub 24.74 0.20 2.06 2.26 Allscale scrub 32.05 1.95 20.16 22.11 Creosote bush scrub 75.93 0.77 9.82 10.59 Creosote bush-white bur sage 123.70 2.51 9.04 11.55 scrub Mojave desert wash scrub 47.10 1.28 4.25 5.53 Wand holdback (unique stand) 6.10 0.00 0.00 0.00 Total 315.37 7.11 48.05 55.16

4.3.7.4. COMPENSATORY MITIGATION With the incorporation of the avoidance and minimization measure listed above, no mitigation would be required.

4.3.7.5. CUMULATIVE IMPACTS Although not addressed in the CV MSHCP, this species would benefit from regional conservation under the CV MSHCP. The CV MSHCP conserves 745,900 acres of habitat, including 27 vegetation types (CVAG 2007). The proposed project would contribute to the loss of up to 55.16 acres of habitat for this species in the region. However, this amount is limited in comparison to the amount of habitat that would be

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 70 Chapter 4 Results: Biological Resources, Discussion of Impacts and Mitigation

conserved under the CV MSHCP. Therefore, the cumulative habitat loss would be considered adverse but less than substantial.

4.3.8. Discussion of the Crissal Thrasher Crissal thrasher is a California Species of Special Concern and is a Covered Species under the CV MSHCP. This species occupies dense thickets of shrubs or low trees in desert riparian, desert wash habitats, and dense sage scrub in washes within pinyon and juniper woodland. This species occurs in Inyo and San Bernardino Counties between sea level and approximately 5,900 feet above msl. In the vicinity of the BSA, this species has historically been reported from Thermal, Indio, Indian Wells, and the City of Coachella (1922, 1924, 1932, 1941 accounts; CDFW 2014a).

4.3.8.1. SURVEY RESULTS Marginally suitable habitat for this species is present in the BSA. Therefore, Crissal thrasher has a limited potential to occur in the BSA.

4.3.8.2. AVOIDANCE AND MINIMIZATION EFFORTS If vegetation clearing would be conducted during the nesting season (February 1 to August 31), a qualified biologist will conduct a survey no more than three days prior to construction to determine if any birds are nesting in or adjacent to the impact area. If nesting is not occurring, construction work can proceed. If an active nest is present, construction work will be restricted within a buffer area of 250 feet until fledglings have left the nest. Any encroachment into the buffer area around the known nest will only be allowed if it is determined by a qualified biologist that the proposed activity will not disturb the nest occupants.

In addition, the following measure regarding dry seeding of temporary disturbance areas would benefit this species by recreating the nesting and foraging habitat that was temporarily disturbed.

4.3.8.3. PROJECT IMPACTS Alternative 3 would impact 27.60 acres of suitable habitat and Alternative 4 would impact 27.64 acres of suitable habitat for this species (Tables 16 and 17). The project would contribute to the regional ongoing loss of habitat in the project region.

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 71 Chapter 4 Results: Biological Resources, Discussion of Impacts and Mitigation

However, the loss of habitat for this species would be limited relative to the availability of similar habitat in the region.

Crissal thrasher could nest in dense shrubs along washes in the BSA. Vegetation removal and/or nearby construction could adversely affect nesting efforts for this species. Construction during the breeding season could disturb nesting activities, possibly resulting in nest abandonment, loss of young, and reduced health and vigor of eggs and/or nestlings. Direct effects on an active Crissal thrasher nest would be considered a violation of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.

Table 16 Project Impacts of Alternative 3 on the Crissal Thrasher

Permanent Temporary Project Project Total Project Vegetation Type and Other Existing Impact Impact Impact Areas (Acres) (Acres) (Acres) (Acres) Allscale Scrub 32.05 1.98 20.12 22.10 Mojave desert wash scrub 47.10 1.29 4.21 5.50 Total 79.15 3.27 24.33 27.60

Table 17 Project Impacts of Alternative 4 on the Crissal Thrasher

Permanent Temporary Project Project Total Project Vegetation Type and Other Existing Impact Impact Impact Areas (Acres) (Acres) (Acres) (Acres) Allscale scrub 32.05 1.95 20.16 22.11 Mojave desert wash scrub 47.10 1.28 4.25 5.53 Total 79.15 3.23 24.41 27.64

4.3.8.4. COMPENSATORY MITIGATION With the incorporation of avoidance and minimization measure listed above, no mitigation would be required.

4.3.8.5. CUMULATIVE IMPACTS The purpose of the CV MSHCP is to prioritize native desert habitat areas for conservation. A total of 6,852 acres of modeled habitat for this species occurs within the CV MSHCP area; 1,675 acres would be conserved by the CV MSHCP (CVAG 2007). The proposed project is not located within a Conservation Area. The proposed project would impact up to 27.64 acres of habitat for Crissal thrasher that would

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 72 Chapter 4 Results: Biological Resources, Discussion of Impacts and Mitigation

contribute to the regional loss for this species. The Project is named as a Covered Project in Section 7.2.3 of the CVAG Regional Road Projects. As such, CVAG is contributing $30 million of Measure A funds to Plan implementation to help accomplish the Permittees’ mitigation obligation. This payment meets the mitigation needs for transportation projects defined in Section 7.2.3; no other mitigation payment is required of the City of Coachella. These funds will contribute to conservation of high-quality native habitat within CV MSHCP Conservation Areas to mitigate for the loss of this species. Therefore, cumulative impacts would be considered adverse but mitigated by participation in the CV MSHCP.

4.3.9. Discussion of the Le Conte’sThrasher Le Conte’s thrasher is a California Species of Special Concern and is a Covered species under the CV MSHCP. This species is found in the San Joaquin Valley and in the Mojave and Colorado Deserts of California and Nevada southward into northeastern, central, and coastal Baja California, Mexico. It also occurs in the Sonoran Desert from extreme southwestern Utah and western Arizona south into western Sonora, Mexico. The Le Conte’s thrasher occupies sparsely vegetated desert flats, dunes, alluvial fans, or gently rolling hills having a high proportion of one or more species of saltbush (Atriplex spp.) and/or cylindrical cholla cactus (Opuntia spp.) approximately three to six feet high. It also occupies other desert habitats with similar structural profiles but lacking saltbush or cholla cactus. In the vicinity of the BSA, this species has historically been reported from Indian Wells and Indio (1919, 1924 accounts; CDFW 2014a).

4.3.9.1. SURVEY RESULTS Suitable habitat for this species is present in the BSA. Therefore, Le Conte’s thrasher may occur in the BSA.

4.3.9.2. AVOIDANCE AND MINIMIZATION EFFORTS If vegetation clearing would be conducted during the nesting season (February 1 to August 31), a qualified biologist will conduct a survey no more than three days prior to construction to determine if any birds are nesting in or adjacent to the impact area. If nesting is not occurring, construction work can proceed. If an active nest is present, construction work will be restricted within a buffer area of 250 feet until fledglings have left the nest. Any encroachment into the buffer area around the known nest will only be allowed if it is determined by a qualified biologist that the proposed activity will not disturb the nest occupants.

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 73 Chapter 4 Results: Biological Resources, Discussion of Impacts and Mitigation

In addition, the following measure regarding dry seeding of temporary disturbance areas would benefit this species by recreating the nesting and foraging habitat that was temporarily disturbed.

4.3.9.3. PROJECT IMPACTS Alternative 3 would impact 96.61 acres of suitable habitat and Alternative 4 would impact 96.86 acres of suitable habitat for this species (Tables 18 and 19). The project would contribute to the regional ongoing loss of habitat in the project region. However, the loss of habitat for this species would be limited relative to the availability of similar habitat in the region.

Le Conte’s thrasher could nest in shrubs in the BSA. Vegetation removal and/or nearby construction could adversely affect nesting efforts for this species. Construction during the breeding season could disturb nesting activities, possibly resulting in nest abandonment, loss of young, and reduced health and vigor of eggs and/or nestlings. Direct effects on an active Le Conte’s thrasher nest would be considered a violation of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.

Table 18 Project Impacts of Alternative 3 on the Le Conte’s Thrasher

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 74 Chapter 4 Results: Biological Resources, Discussion of Impacts and Mitigation

Table 19 Project Impacts of Alternative 4 on the Le Conte’s Thrasher

Permanent Temporary Total Project Project Project Vegetation Type and Other Existing Impact Impact Impact Areas (Acres) (Acres) (Acres) (Acres) Desert annual grassland 106.93 5.69 36.01 41.70 White bursage scrub 5.75 0.40 2.72 3.12 Cheesebush scrub 24.74 0.20 2.06 2.26 Allscale scrub 32.05 1.95 20.16 22.11 Creosote bush scrub 75.93 0.77 9.82 10.59 Creosote bush – white bur sage 123.70 2.51 9.04 11.55 scrub Mojave desert wash scrub 47.10 1.28 4.25 5.53 Wand holdback (unique stand) 6.10 0.00 0.00 0.00 Total 422.30 12.80 84.06 96.86

4.3.9.4. COMPENSATORY MITIGATION With the incorporation of avoidance and minimization measures listed above, no mitigation would be required.

4.3.9.5. CUMULATIVE IMPACTS The purpose of the CV MSHCP is to prioritize native desert habitat areas for conservation. The distribution of this species is poorly known in the plan area; therefore, rather than model species-specific habitat, the CV MSHCP recommends the conservation of all large blocks of potential habitat. A total of 243,242 acres of modeled habitat for this species occurs within the CV MSHCP area; 132,456 acres would be conserved by the CV MSHCP (CVAG 2007). The proposed project is not located within a Conservation Area. The proposed project would impact up to 96.86 acres of habitat for Le Conte’s thrasher that would contribute to the regional loss for this species. The Project is named as a Covered Project in Section 7.2.3 of the CVAG Regional Road Projects. As such, CVAG is contributing $30 million of Measure A funds to Plan implementation to help accomplish the Permittees’ mitigation obligation. This payment meets the mitigation needs for transportation projects defined in Section 7.2.3; no other mitigation payment is required of the City of Coachella. These funds will contribute to conservation of high-quality native habitat within CV MSHCP Conservation Areas to mitigate for the loss of this species. Therefore, cumulative impacts would be considered adverse but mitigated by participation in the CV MSHCP.

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 75 Chapter 4 Results: Biological Resources, Discussion of Impacts and Mitigation

4.3.10. Discussion of the Pallid Bat Pallid bat is a California Species of Special Concern. This species occurs throughout California except for the high Sierra Nevada Mountains and in the northwestern portion of the state (Zeiner et al. 1990). This species occurs in forests, woodlands, brushy terrain, rocky canyons, farmland, and deserts. This large bat roosts in rock crevices, old buildings, bridges, caves, mines, and in hollow trees. In the vicinity of the BSA, this species has been reported from the Mecca Hills (CDFW 2014a).

4.3.10.1. SURVEY RESULTS Potentially suitable foraging and roosting habitat for this species is present in the BSA. Therefore, pallid bat may occur for foraging and roosting in the BSA.

4.3.10.2. AVOIDANCE AND MINIMIZATION EFFORTS To the extent practicable, construction activities shall be limited to daylight hours in order to avoid indirect effects on nocturnal species as a result of night lighting.

Permanent night lighting shall be directed away from open space areas. Lighting plans for permanent light fixtures shall be submitted for review by Caltrans during the project design phase to ensure that lighting has been reduced to the extent practicable.

Prior to the initiation of construction, a qualified biologist (one with experience conducting surveys for bats) shall survey within the project impact footprint for active bat roosts. Passive acoustic surveys shall be conducted at dusk (when bats are leaving their roosts) during appropriate weather conditions. If an active roost is observed, the biologist shall direct Caltrans on measures that would minimize impacts on roosting bats. This may include, but would not be limited to, sealing the roost after bats have left the roosts for the evening; use of exclusionary devices on bridges; and/or removing trees after bats have left the roosts for the evening.

In addition, the following measure regarding dry seeding of temporary disturbance areas would benefit this species by recreating the foraging habitat that was temporarily disturbed.

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 76 Chapter 4 Results: Biological Resources, Discussion of Impacts and Mitigation

4.3.10.3. PROJECT IMPACTS Alternative 3 would impact 96.61 acres of suitable foraging habitat and Alternative 4 would impact 96.86 acres of suitable foraging habitat for this species (Tables 20 and 21). The project would contribute to the regional ongoing loss of bat foraging habitat in the project region. However, the loss of habitat for this species would be limited relative to the availability of similar habitat in the region.

The loss of rock crevices, impacts to existing bridge structures, and/or removal of trees would remove potential roosting habitat for pallid bat. During construction activities, temporary noise/vibration impacts have the potential to disrupt pallid bat, if they are roosting in cliff crevices or trees adjacent to the impact area or haul routes. However, this effect is expected to be limited as vibration-causing construction activities (i.e., construction vehicles and trucks moving along the haul route) are only expected to affect areas within 25 feet (Kurtz 2014).

If night lighting is planned, spillover of light into the adjacent open space could have an adverse impact on the foraging activities of bats, which are nocturnal species. This may result in reduced health and vigor of bats and/or their young.

Table 20 Project Impacts of Alternative 3 on the Pallid Bat

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 77 Chapter 4 Results: Biological Resources, Discussion of Impacts and Mitigation

Table 21 Project Impacts of Alternative 4 on the Pallid Bat

Permanent Temporary Total Project Project Project Vegetation Type and Other Existing Impact Impact Impact Areas (Acres) (Acres) (Acres) (Acres) Desert annual grassland 106.93 5.69 36.01 41.70 White bursage scrub 5.75 0.40 2.72 3.12 Cheesebush scrub 24.74 0.20 2.06 2.26 Allscale scrub 32.05 1.95 20.16 22.11 Creosote bush scrub 75.93 0.77 9.82 10.59 Creosote bush-white bur sage 123.70 2.51 9.04 11.55 scrub Mojave desert wash scrub 47.10 1.28 4.25 5.53 Wand holdback (unique stand) 6.10 0.00 0.00 0.00 Total 422.30 12.80 84.06 96.86

4.3.10.4. COMPENSATORY MITIGATION With the incorporation of avoidance and minimization measures listed above, no mitigation would be required.

4.3.10.5. CUMULATIVE IMPACTS Although not addressed in the CV MSHCP, this species would benefit from regional conservation under the CV MSHCP. The CV MSHCP conserves 745,900 acres of habitat, including 27 vegetation types (CVAG 2007). The proposed project would contribute to the loss of up to 96.86 acres of habitat for this species in the region. However, this amount is limited in comparison to the amount of habitat that would be conserved under the CV MSHCP. Therefore, the cumulative habitat loss would be considered adverse but less than substantial.

4.3.11. Discussion of the Pallid San Diego Pocket Mouse Pallid San Diego pocket mouse is a California Species of Special Concern. Little is known about the distribution of this species. This species occurs in pinyon-juniper woodland, desert scrub, and agave-ocotillo habitat on rocky desert slopes (Lackey 1996). In the vicinity of the BSA, this species has been reported from Deep Canyon (CDFG 2014a).

4.3.11.1. SURVEY RESULTS Suitable habitat for this species is present in the BSA. Therefore, pallid San Diego pocket mouse may occur in the BSA.

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 78 Chapter 4 Results: Biological Resources, Discussion of Impacts and Mitigation

4.3.11.2. AVOIDANCE AND MINIMIZATION EFFORTS To the extent practicable, construction activities shall be limited to daylight hours in order to avoid indirect effects on nocturnal species as a result of night lighting.

In addition, the following measure regarding dry seeding of temporary disturbance areas would benefit this species by recreating the habitat that was temporarily disturbed.

4.3.11.3. PROJECT IMPACTS Alternative 3 would impact 96.61 acres of suitable foraging habitat and Alternative 4 would impact 96.86 acres of suitable foraging habitat for this species (Tables 22 and 23). The project would contribute to the regional ongoing loss of habitat in the project region. However, the loss of habitat for this species would be limited relative to the availability of similar habitat in the region.

If night lighting is planned, spillover of light into the adjacent open space could have an adverse impact on the foraging activities of pocket mice, which are nocturnal species. This may result in reduced health and vigor of mice and/or their young.

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 79 Chapter 4 Results: Biological Resources, Discussion of Impacts and Mitigation

Table 22 Project Impacts of Alternative 3 on the Pallid San Diego Pocket Mouse

Table 23 Project Impacts of Alternative 4 on the Pallid San Diego Pocket Mouse

Permanent Temporary Total Project Project Project Vegetation Type and Other Existing Impact Impact Impact Areas (Acres) (Acres) (Acres) (Acres) Desert annual grassland 106.93 5.69 36.01 41.70 White bursage scrub 5.75 0.40 2.72 3.12 Cheesebush scrub 24.74 0.20 2.06 2.26 Allscale scrub 32.05 1.95 20.16 22.11 Creosote bush scrub 75.93 0.77 9.82 10.59 Creosote bush – white bur sage 123.70 2.51 9.04 11.55 scrub Mojave desert wash scrub 47.10 1.28 4.25 5.53 Wand holdback (unique stand) 6.10 0.00 0.00 0.00 Total 422.30 12.80 84.06 96.86

4.3.11.4. COMPENSATORY MITIGATION With the incorporation of avoidance and minimization measures listed above, no mitigation would be required.

4.3.11.5. CUMULATIVE IMPACTS Although not addressed in the CV MSHCP, this species would benefit from regional conservation under the CV MSHCP. The CV MSHCP conserves 745,900 acres of habitat, including 27 vegetation types (CVAG 2007). The proposed project would contribute to the loss of up to 96.86 acres of habitat for this species in the region.

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 80 Chapter 4 Results: Biological Resources, Discussion of Impacts and Mitigation

However, this amount is limited in comparison to the amount of habitat that would be conserved under the CV MSHCP. Therefore, the cumulative habitat loss would be considered adverse but less than substantial.

4.3.12. Discussion of the Western Mastiff Bat Western mastiff bat is a California Species of Special Concern. The subspecies that occurs in southern California is the California mastiff bat (Eumops perotis californicus). The western mastiff bat is a very wide-ranging and high-flying insectivore that typically forages in open areas with high cliffs. This species roosts in small colonies in crevices on cliff faces. It occurs in the southeastern San Joaquin Valley and coastal ranges from Monterey County southward through southern California, and from the coast eastward to the Colorado Desert (Zeiner et al. 1990). The western mastiff bat is found in many open semi-arid to arid habitats including conifer and deciduous woodlands, coastal scrub, grasslands, palm oases, chaparral, desert scrub, and urban areas (Zeiner et al. 1990). Threats to this species include loss of habitat due to development, drainage of marshes, and conversion of land to agriculture (Williams 1986). In the vicinity of the BSA, this species has been reported from Mecca Hills (CDFW 2014a).

4.3.12.1. SURVEY RESULTS Suitable foraging and roosting habitat for this species is present in the BSA. Therefore, western mastiff bat may occur for foraging and roosting in the BSA.

4.3.12.2. AVOIDANCE AND MINIMIZATION EFFORTS To the extent practicable, construction activities shall be limited to daylight hours in order to avoid indirect effects on nocturnal species as a result of night lighting.

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 81 Chapter 4 Results: Biological Resources, Discussion of Impacts and Mitigation

In addition, the following measure regarding dry seeding of temporary disturbance areas would benefit this species by recreating the habitat that was temporarily disturbed.

4.3.12.3. PROJECT IMPACTS Alternative 3 would impact 100.67 acres of suitable foraging habitat and Alternative 4 would impact 100.91 acres of suitable foraging habitat for this species (Tables 24 and 25). The project would contribute to the regional ongoing loss of bat foraging habitat in the project region. However, the loss of habitat for this species would be limited relative to the availability of similar habitat in the region.

The loss of rock crevices and impacts to existing bridge structures would remove potential roosting habitat for western mastiff bat. During construction activities, temporary noise/vibration impacts have the potential to disrupt western mastiff bat, if they are roosting in cliff crevices adjacent to the impact area or haul routes. However, this effect is expected to be limited as vibration-causing construction activities (i.e., construction vehicles and trucks moving along the haul route) are only expected to affect areas within 25 feet (Kurtz 2014).

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 82 Chapter 4 Results: Biological Resources, Discussion of Impacts and Mitigation

Table 24 Project Impacts of Alternative 3 on the Western Mastiff Bat

Table 25 Project Impacts of Alternative 4 on the Western Mastiff Bat

Permanent Temporary Total Project Project Project Vegetation Type and Other Existing Impact Impact Impact Areas (Acres) (Acres) (Acres) (Acres) Desert annual grassland 106.93 5.69 36.01 41.70 White bursage scrub 5.75 0.40 2.72 3.12 Cheesebush scrub 24.74 0.20 2.06 2.26 Allscale scrub 32.05 1.95 20.16 22.11 Creosote bush scrub 75.93 0.77 9.82 10.59 Creosote bush – white bur sage 123.70 2.51 9.04 11.55 scrub Mojave desert wash scrub 47.10 1.28 4.25 5.53 Wand holdback (unique stand) 6.10 0.00 0.00 0.00 Disturbed/unvegetated 16.43 0.39 3.66 4.05 Total 438.73 13.19 87.72 100.91

4.3.12.4. COMPENSATORY MITIGATION With the incorporation of avoidance and minimization measures listed above, no mitigation would be required.

4.3.12.5. CUMULATIVE IMPACTS Although not addressed in the CV MSHCP, this species would benefit from regional conservation under the CV MSHCP. The CV MSHCP conserves 745,900 acres of

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 83 Chapter 4 Results: Biological Resources, Discussion of Impacts and Mitigation

4.3.13. Discussion of the Pocketed Free-Tailed Bat Pocketed free-tailed bat is a California Species of Special Concern. This species is known to occur in areas with ponds, streams, or arid deserts that provide suitable foraging habitat for this species. This species roosts in rock crevices, cliffs, or rocky outcroppings. In the vicinity of the BSA, this species has been reported from Painted Canyon (CDFW 2014a).

4.3.13.1. SURVEY RESULTS Suitable foraging and roosting habitat for this species is present in the BSA. Therefore, pocketed free-tailed bat may occur for foraging and roosting in the BSA.

4.3.13.2. AVOIDANCE AND MINIMIZATION EFFORTS To the extent practicable, construction activities shall be limited to daylight hours in order to avoid indirect effects on nocturnal species as a result of night lighting.

In addition, the following measure regarding dry seeding of temporary disturbance areas would benefit this species by recreating the habitat that was temporarily disturbed.

 After project construction, all areas subject to temporary impacts shall be dry seeded with a native seed mix that is representative of the existing vegetative

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 84 Chapter 4 Results: Biological Resources, Discussion of Impacts and Mitigation

community at this location. The dry seed mix shall be submitted to Caltrans for review and approval by a qualified biologist.

4.3.13.3. PROJECT IMPACTS Alternative 3 would impact 96.61 acres of suitable foraging habitat and Alternative 4 would impact 96.86 acres of suitable foraging habitat for this species (Tables 26 and 27). The project would contribute to the regional ongoing loss of bat foraging habitat in the project region. However, the loss of habitat for this species would be limited relative to the availability of similar habitat in the region.

The loss of rock crevices and impacts to existing bridge structures would remove potential roosting habitat for pocketed free-tailed bat. During construction activities, temporary noise/vibration impacts have the potential to disrupt pocketed free-tailed bats if they are roosting in cliff crevices adjacent to the impact area or haul routes. However, this effect is expected to be limited as vibration-causing construction activities (i.e., construction vehicles and trucks moving along the haul route) are only expected to affect areas within 25 feet (Kurtz 2014).

Table 26 Project Impacts of Alternative 3 on the Pocketed Free-tailed Bat

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 85 Chapter 4 Results: Biological Resources, Discussion of Impacts and Mitigation

Table 27 Project Impacts of Alternative 4 on the Pocketed Free-tailed Bat

Permanent Temporary Total Project Project Project Vegetation Type and Other Existing Impact Impact Impact Areas (Acres) (Acres) (Acres) (Acres) Desert annual grassland 106.93 5.69 36.01 41.70 White bursage scrub 5.75 0.40 2.72 3.12 Cheesebush scrub 24.74 0.20 2.06 2.26 Allscale scrub 32.05 1.95 20.16 22.11 Creosote bush scrub 75.93 0.77 9.82 10.59 Creosote bush – white bur sage 123.70 2.51 9.04 11.55 scrub Mojave desert wash scrub 47.10 1.28 4.25 5.53 Wand holdback (unique stand) 6.10 0.00 0.00 0.00 Total 422.30 12.80 84.06 96.86

4.3.13.4. COMPENSATORY MITIGATION With the incorporation of avoidance and minimization measures listed above, no mitigation would be required.

4.3.13.5. CUMULATIVE IMPACTS Although not addressed in the CV MSHCP, this species would benefit from regional conservation under the CV MSHCP. The CV MSHCP conserves 745,900 acres of habitat, including 27 vegetation types (CVAG 2007). The proposed project would contribute to the loss of up to 96.86 acres of habitat for this species in the region. However, this amount is limited in comparison to the amount of habitat that would be conserved under the CV MSHCP. Therefore, the cumulative habitat loss would be considered adverse but less than substantial.

4.3.14. Discussion of the Palm Springs Pocket Mouse Palm Springs pocket mouse is a California Species of Special Concern and a Covered species under the CV MSHCP. This is one of seven subspecies of the little pocket mouse (Perognathus longimembris). It occurs from the San Gorgonio Pass area east to the Little San Bernardino Mountains and along the eastern edge of the Peninsular Range to Borrego Valley and the eastern side of San Felipe Narrows (Hall 1981). Habitat for the Palm Springs pocket mouse has not been specifically defined, but Grinnell (1933) states that this subspecies “inhabits open ground of fine sandy composition”. In the vicinity of the BSA, this species has been reported from Indio, Yellow Spots Canyon, and Indio Hills (CDFW 2014a). Generally, this subspecies

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 86 Chapter 4 Results: Biological Resources, Discussion of Impacts and Mitigation

occurs in level to gently sloping topography with sparse to moderate vegetation and loosely packed or sandy soils.

4.3.14.1. SURVEY RESULTS Suitable habitat for this species is present in the BSA. This species was observed in the BSA during the 2001 trapping surveys (Appendix H).

4.3.14.2. AVOIDANCE AND MINIMIZATION EFFORTS To the extent practicable, construction activities shall be limited to daylight hours in order to avoid indirect effects on nocturnal species as a result of night lighting.

In addition, the following measure regarding dry seeding of temporary disturbance areas would benefit this species by recreating the habitat that was temporarily disturbed.

4.3.14.3. PROJECT IMPACTS Alternative 3 would impact 96.61 acres of suitable foraging habitat and Alternative 4 would impact 96.86 acres of suitable foraging habitat for this species (Tables 28 and 29). The project would contribute to the regional ongoing loss of habitat in the project region. However, the loss of habitat for this species would be limited relative to the availability of similar habitat in the region.

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 87 Chapter 4 Results: Biological Resources, Discussion of Impacts and Mitigation

Table 28 Project Impacts of Alternative 3 on the Palm Springs Pocket Mouse

Table 29 Project Impacts of Alternative 4 on the Palm Springs Pocket Mouse

Permanent Temporary Total Project Project Project Vegetation Type and Other Existing Impact Impact Impact Areas (Acres) (Acres) (Acres) (Acres) Desert annual grassland 106.93 5.69 36.01 41.70 White bursage scrub 5.75 0.40 2.72 3.12 Cheesebush scrub 24.74 0.20 2.06 2.26 Allscale scrub 32.05 1.95 20.16 22.11 Creosote bush scrub 75.93 0.77 9.82 10.59 Creosote bush – white bur sage 123.70 2.51 9.04 11.55 scrub Mojave desert wash scrub 47.10 1.28 4.25 5.53 Wand holdback (unique stand) 6.10 0.00 0.00 0.00 Total 422.30 12.80 84.06 96.86

4.3.14.4. COMPENSATORY MITIGATION With the incorporation of avoidance and minimization measures listed above, no mitigation would be required.

4.3.14.5. CUMULATIVE IMPACTS The purpose of the CV MSHCP is to prioritize native desert habitat areas for conservation. A total of 142,539 acres of modeled habitat for this species occurs within the CV MSHCP area; 56,856 acres would be conserved by the CV MSHCP (CVAG 2007). The proposed project is not located within a Conservation Area. The

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 88 Chapter 4 Results: Biological Resources, Discussion of Impacts and Mitigation

proposed project would impact up to 96.86 acres of habitat for Palm Springs pocket mouse that would contribute to the regional loss for this species. The Project is named as a Covered Project in Section 7.2.3 of the CVAG Regional Road Projects. As such, CVAG is contributing $30 million of Measure A funds to Plan implementation to help accomplish the Permittees’ mitigation obligation. This payment meets the mitigation needs for transportation projects defined in Section 7.2.3; no other mitigation payment is required of the City of Coachella. These funds will contribute to conservation of high-quality native habitat within CV MSHCP Conservation Areas to mitigate for the loss of this species. Therefore, cumulative impacts would be considered adverse but mitigated by participation in the CV MSHCP.

4.3.15. Discussion of the Palm Springs [Coachella Valley] Round- Tailed Ground Squirrel Palm Springs round-tailed ground squirrel is a California Species of Special Concern and is a Covered species under the CV MSHCP. This species occurs in open, flat desert areas with fine sandy soils, grasses, and/or desert succulent shrubs.

4.3.15.1. SURVEY RESULTS The Palm Springs round-tailed ground squirrel was not observed in the BSA during the 2001 or 2006 focused surveys. In general, the habitat south of I-10 and immediately north of I-10 is degraded and considered largely unsuitable for this species. The habitat north of I-10 is characterized by steep rocky hills with little to no sandy soils present. The remaining habitat present on the project site, characterized by more open and flat topography, is very disturbed and the soils are compact and modified due to the construction of the freeway and associated connectors. In these areas, dunes or locations with substantial sandy soils are absent. However, this species has been reported from the surrounding project vicinity (Quinnell 2007).

4.3.15.2. AVOIDANCE AND MINIMIZATION EFFORTS No avoidance or minimization efforts have been proposed.

4.3.15.3. PROJECT IMPACTS This species was not observed within the BSA during focused surveys; therefore, there would be no impact on this species.

4.3.15.4. COMPENSATORY MITIGATION No compensatory mitigation would be required. The CV MSHCP mitigates for impacts on the Palm Springs round-tailed ground squirrel.

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 89 Chapter 4 Results: Biological Resources, Discussion of Impacts and Mitigation

4.3.15.5. CUMULATIVE IMPACTS The purpose of the CV MSHCP is to prioritize native desert habitat areas for conservation. A total of 39,405 acres of modeled habitat for this species occurs within the CV MSHCP area; 33,826 acres would be conserved by the CV MSHCP (CVAG 2007). The proposed project is not located within a Conservation Area and would not impact occupied habitat; therefore, it would not contribute to cumulative impacts on this species. The Project is named as a Covered Project in Section 7.2.3 of the CVAG Regional Road Projects. As such, CVAG is contributing $30 million of Measure A funds to Plan implementation to help accomplish the Permittees’ mitigation obligation. This payment meets the mitigation needs for transportation projects defined in Section 7.2.3; no other mitigation payment is required of the City of Coachella. These funds will contribute to conservation of high-quality native habitat within CV MSHCP Conservation Areas. Therefore, cumulative impacts would be mitigated by participation in the CV MSHCP.

4.3.16. Discussion of the American Badger American badger is a California Species of Special Concern. This species occupies a wide variety of habitats and ranges throughout the state except for the coastal redwood forests of the extreme northwest. In southern California, this species is most commonly associated with grasslands and other relatively open habitats with friable, uncultivated soils. In the vicinity of the BSA, this species has been reported from Indio (CDFW 2014a).

4.3.16.1. SURVEY RESULTS An American badger burrow was incidentally observed in the BSA during the 2001 focused surveys. Suitable habitat for this species is present in the BSA. Therefore, American badger is expected to occur in the BSA.

4.3.16.2. AVOIDANCE AND MINIMIZATION EFFORTS Fourteen days prior to construction activities, a qualified biologist will conduct a pre- construction survey to determine if there are any active American badger burrows and if any avoidance and minimization measures will be required. If no active burrows are observed, construction work can proceed.

If an active burrow is observed during the non-breeding season (September 1 to January 31) and the burrow is within the impact area, standard burrow closing procedures will be used to exclude American badger (i.e., using passive relocation with one-way doors).

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 90 Chapter 4 Results: Biological Resources, Discussion of Impacts and Mitigation

If an active burrow is observed during the non-breeding season (September 1 to January 31) and the burrow is not within the impact area, construction work will be restricted within 160 feet of the burrow (or as otherwise determined by the project biologist in consultation with CDFW).

If an active burrow is present and nesting is believed to be occurring (February 1 to August 31), construction work and access will be restricted within 250 feet of the burrow (or as otherwise determined by the project biologist in consultation with CDFW) until the young have left the burrow.

In addition, the following measure regarding dry seeding of temporary disturbance areas would benefit this species by recreating the habitat that was temporarily disturbed.

4.3.16.3. PROJECT IMPACTS Alternative 3 would impact 96.61 acres of suitable foraging habitat and Alternative 4 would impact 96.86 acres of suitable foraging habitat for this species (Tables 30 and 31). The project would contribute to the regional ongoing loss of habitat in the project region. However, the loss of habitat for this species would be limited relative to the availability of similar habitat in the region.

If night lighting is planned, spillover of light into the adjacent open space could have an adverse impact on the foraging activities of American badger, which are nocturnal and diurnal species. This may result in reduced health and vigor of badger and/or their young.

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 91 Chapter 4 Results: Biological Resources, Discussion of Impacts and Mitigation

Table 30 Project Impacts of Alternative 3 on the American Badger

Table 31 Project Impacts of Alternative 4 on the American Badger

Permanent Temporary Total Project Project Project Vegetation Type and Other Existing Impact Impact Impact Areas (Acres) (Acres) (Acres) (Acres) Desert annual grassland 106.93 5.69 36.01 41.70 White bursage scrub 5.75 0.40 2.72 3.12 Cheesebush scrub 24.74 0.20 2.06 2.26 Allscale scrub 32.05 1.95 20.16 22.11 Creosote bush scrub 75.93 0.77 9.82 10.59 Creosote bush – white bur sage 123.70 2.51 9.04 11.55 scrub Mojave desert wash scrub 47.10 1.28 4.25 5.53 Wand holdback (unique stand) 6.10 0.00 0.00 0.00 Total 422.30 12.80 84.06 96.86

4.3.16.4. COMPENSATORY MITIGATION With the incorporation of avoidance and minimization measures listed above, no mitigation would be required.

4.3.16.5. CUMULATIVE IMPACTS Although not addressed in the CV MSHCP, this species would benefit from regional conservation under the CV MSHCP. The CV MSHCP conserves 745,900 acres of habitat, including 27 vegetation types (CVAG 2007). The proposed project would contribute to the loss of up to 96.86 acres of habitat for this species in the region.

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 92 Chapter 4 Results: Biological Resources, Discussion of Impacts and Mitigation

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 93

Chapter 5 Results: Permits and Technical Studies for Special Laws or Conditions

Chapter 5. Conclusions and Regulatory Determinations

5.1. Federal Endangered Species Act Consultation Summary

Caltrans is the NEPA lead agency for Section 7 of the proposed project and has made a No Effect determination for federally listed species. As discussed in Chapters 3 and 4 of the preceding section, the proposed project is not within designated critical habitat for federally threatened and endangered species as shown on USFWS IPAC list dated April 23, 2014 and April 4, 2016 (Appendix B), nor will it have an effect on Coachella Valley milk-vetch, triple-ribbed milk-vetch, Casey’s June beetle, desert pupfish, desert tortoise, Coachella Valley fringe-toed lizard, southwestern willow flycatcher, Yuma clapper rail , least Bell’s vireo , and Peninsular bighorn sheep. No further section 7 consultation is required at this time for this project.

5.2. Federal Fisheries and Essential Fish Habitat Consultation Summary

No federal fisheries or essential fish habitat are located in the BSA.

5.3. California Endangered Species Act Consultation Summary

CV MSHCP provides protection for the State listed species in the project area. The proposed project is named as a Covered Project in Section 7.2.3 of the CVAG Regional Road Projects. CESA protects plant and animal species listed as Rare, Threatened, or Endangered. The CDFW authorizes take of Endangered, Threatened, or Candidate species through provisions of Section 2081 and 2080.1 of the California Fish and Game Code. Chapters 3 and 4 evaluate the potential for State-listed species to occur; no State listed Threatened or Endangered plant or wildlife species are expected to occur in the BSA. Since there is no impact on State-listed plant or wildlife species (i.e., desert pupfish, desert tortoise, flat-tailed horned lizard, Coachella Valley fringe-toed lizard, southwestern willow flycatcher, Yuma clapper rail, least Bell's vireo, and Peninsular bighorn sheep), it will not be necessary for Caltrans to obtain an Incidental Take Permit or a Consistency Determination from CDFW.

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 95 Chapter 5 Results: Permits and Technical Studies for Special Laws or Conditions

5.4. Wetlands and Other Waters Coordination

Wetlands are defined as areas of land that are either permanently or seasonally wet and support specifically adapted vegetation. To regulate activities in wetlands, federal and State agencies have developed specific definitions and methods for identifying wetland boundaries. Identification methods, which vary among the agencies, focus on hydrologic, soil, and vegetative parameters. For sites to be identified as wetlands, they must have specific indicators of wetland conditions for each of these three parameters.

5.4.1.1. SURVEY RESULTS Description of Potentially Jurisdictional Features The following drainages were described in the jurisdictional delineation report (RBF Consulting 2015, Appendix I). Note that evaluation of jurisdictional features did not include the entire BSA, it was generally limited to the project impact areas (referred to below as the project site):

Drainage B: Drainage B is an unnamed, ephemeral drainage feature which crosses project site boundaries in the western portion of the project site. Following significant storm events, surface water run-off is conveyed from the I-10 and surrounding landscape into Drainage B. Flows within Drainage B are conveyed south and off-site via overland sheet flow and underneath the I-10 freeway through two bridges spanning the westbound and eastbound lanes. Drainage B exhibits an earthen streambed characterized by a sandy substrate consisting of fine sediment, cobble and boulders. No surface water was observed within Drainage B; however, evidence of an OHWM and surface hydrology was observed in Drainage B via the following indicators scour; shelving; drift/debris; sediment deposition; and changes in terrestrial vegetation. Within the boundaries of the project site, Drainage B measures approximately 64 linear feet in length and ranges from 4 to 33 feet in width.

Drainage B1: Drainage B1 is an unnamed, ephemeral drainage feature located in the western portion of the project site. Drainage B1 is tributary to Drainage B. Following significant storm events, surface water run-off from on-site topography in the western portion of the project site and surrounding landscape is conveyed into Drainage B1 via overland sheet flow. Flows continue southwest into Drainage B and underneath the I-10. Drainage B1 exhibits an earthen streambed characterized by sand/gravel substrate consisting of fine sediment and cobble. No surface water was observed within Drainage B1; however, evidence of an OHWM and surface hydrology was observed via the following indicators: scour; shelving; substrate distribution;

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 96 Chapter 5 Results: Permits and Technical Studies for Special Laws or Conditions

drift/debris; drainage patterns; and changes in terrestrial vegetation. Drainage B1, is not located within the boundaries of the project site.

Drainage C: Drainage C is an unnamed, ephemeral drainage feature which crosses project site boundaries in the southwest portion of the project site. Following significant storm events, surface water run-off is conveyed from the I-10 freeway and surrounding landscape into Drainage C through a 48-inch metal pipe culvert. Flows within Drainage C are conveyed south and offsite through two 48-inch corrugated metal pipe culverts. Drainage C exhibits an earthen streambed characterized by sand/gravel substrate consisting of fine sediment and cobble. No surface water was present within Drainage C; however, evidence of a USACE OHWM and surface hydrology was observed via the following indicators: scour; drift/debris; substrate distribution; shelving; and changes in vegetation. Within the boundaries of the project site, Drainage C measures approximately 144 linear feet in length and ranges from 8 to 15 feet in width.

Drainage D: Drainage D is an unnamed, ephemeral drainage feature which crosses project site boundaries in the southwest portion of the project site. Following significant storm events, surface water run-off is conveyed from the I-10 freeway and surrounding landscape into Drainage D through a 48-inch corrugated metal pipe culvert. Flows within Drainage D are conveyed south through two 48-inch corrugated metal pipe culverts and offsite via overland sheet flow. Drainage D exhibits an earthen streambed characterized by heavily compacted substrate consisting of fine sediment, gravel and cobble. No surface water was observed within Drainage D; however, evidence of a USACE OHWM and surface hydrology was observed via the following indicators: scour; shelving; drainage patterns; and changes in terrestrial vegetation. Within the boundaries of the project site, Drainage D measures approximately 504 linear feet in length and 8 to 56 feet in width.

Drainage E: Drainage E is an unnamed, ephemeral drainage feature located in the southern portion of the project site. Following significant storm events, surface water run-off is conveyed from the I-10 freeway and surrounding landscape into Drainage E through a 5-foot pipe culvert. Flows within Drainage E are conveyed south via overland sheet flow into two 48-inch corrugated metal pipe culverts and underneath the original alignment of the I-10 freeway. Flows continue south across the project site via overland sheet flow; however, no OHWM indicators were observed along the southern reach of Drainage E due to transmission losses, evaporation and/or general over land flow. No surface water was observed within Drainage E; however, evidence

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 97 Chapter 5 Results: Permits and Technical Studies for Special Laws or Conditions

of a USACE OHWM and surface hydrology was observed in the upper portion of Drainage E via the following indicators: scour; shelving; drift/debris; sediment deposition; and changes in terrestrial vegetation. Within the boundaries of the project site, Drainage E measures approximately 881 linear feet in length and ranges from 5 to 63 feet in width.

Drainage E1: Drainage E1 is an unnamed, ephemeral drainage feature located in the north central portion of the project site. Drainage E1 is tributary to Drainage E. Following significant storm events, surface water run-off from on-site topography in the northern portion of the project site and surrounding landscape is conveyed south into Drainage E1 via over land flow. Flows continue south into a pipe culvert and underneath the I-10 freeway. Drainage E1 exhibits an earthen streambed characterized by a sandy substrate consisting of fine sediment, cobble and boulders. No surface water was observed within Drainage E1; however, evidence of a USACE OHWM and surface hydrology was observed via the following indicators: scour; shelving; substrate distribution; drift/debris; drainage patterns; and changes in terrestrial vegetation. Within the boundaries of the project site, Drainage E1 measures approximately 675 linear feet in length and ranges from 4 to 41 feet in width.

Drainage F: Drainage F is an unnamed, ephemeral drainage feature located in the northern portion of the project site. Following significant storm events, surface water run-off from on-site topography in the northern portion of the project site and surrounding landscape is conveyed south into Drainage F via over land flow. Flows continue southwest within Drainage F until redirected and contained by the northern berm of the I-10 freeway. At this location evidence of hydrology ceased and no clear OHWM/streambed indicators were identified. Drainage F is assumed to be isolated because it is not tributary to any downstream waters. Drainage F exhibits an earthen streambed characterized by a sandy substrate consisting of fine sediment, cobble, and boulders. No surface water was observed within Drainage F; however, evidence of a USACE OHWM and surface hydrology was observed in the upper portion of Drainage F via the following indicators: scour; shelving; substrate distribution; drift/debris; drainage patterns; and changes in terrestrial vegetation. Drainage F measures approximately 531 linear feet in length and ranges from 5 to 38 feet in width.

Drainage G: Drainage G is an unnamed, ephemeral drainage feature located in the northeast portion of the project site. Following significant storm events, surface water run-off from on-site topography in the northern portion of the project site and

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 98 Chapter 5 Results: Permits and Technical Studies for Special Laws or Conditions

surrounding landscape is conveyed south into Drainage G via over land flow. Drainage G conveys flows south into a flat, sandy floodplain bounded by the berm of the I-10 freeway along the southern edge. At this location evidence of hydrology ceased and no clear OHWM/streambed indicators were identified. Drainage G is assumed to be isolated because it is not tributary to any downstream waters. Drainage G exhibits an earthen streambed characterized by a sandy substrate consisting of fine sediment, cobble, and boulders. No surface water was observed within Drainage G; however, evidence of a USACE OHWM and surface hydrology was observed in the upper portion of Drainage G via the following indicators: scour; shelving; substrate distribution; drift/debris; drainage patterns; and changes in terrestrial vegetation. Drainage G measures approximately 71 linear feet in length and 5 feet in width.

USACE Jurisdictional Finding Evidence of an OHWM was noted within the boundaries of the project site, which included the following indicators: sediment deposition, shelving, drift deposits and destruction/changes of terrestrial vegetation. However, based on the detailed analysis of on- site hydrologic conditions, it was preliminarily determined that the relevant reaches B, B1, C,D, E, and E1 have an insubstantial or speculative effect on the chemical, physical or biological significant nexus to the downstream relatively permanent waters (Whitewater River); and, therefore to the traditional navigable waterway (Salton Sea). Drainages F and G exhibited evidence of an OHWM; however, these drainage features do not exhibit a surface hydrologic connection to any downstream waters and are considered intrastate isolated waters.

All surface flows resulting from the project site continue southwest until redirected by the levee of the Coachella Canal and eventually flowing into an evacuation outlet located approximately two miles south of the project site. The outlet serves as the only flood conveyance facility for flows which continue downstream. The evacuation outlet was constructed with the All American Canal Levee in the 1930’s. The outlet is sized for the Standard Project Flood; however, it would take nearly a 50-year storm to produce outlet flows. Once through the outlet, the flows are conveyed through Wasteway Channel No. 2, a channel that discharges into the Whitewater River. The discharge of the Channel to the river is insignificant as the peak flows of the channel do not impact the peak flows of the river.

Based on the proximity to the traditional navigable waterway of 16.5 miles, average annual rainfall of approximately 2.98 inches, and the general flow dynamics

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 99 Chapter 5 Results: Permits and Technical Studies for Special Laws or Conditions

discussed throughout this report a significant nexus finding could not be established or supported; therefore, USACE jurisdictional waters of the U.S. are not present onsite. Additionally, no USACE jurisdictional wetlands are present onsite. It should be noted that prior Approved Jurisdictional Determinations downstream have been issued based on the findings above.

RWQCB Finding As a result of the lack of USACE Jurisdiction, the RWQCB would assume jurisdiction over those surface waters documented during the site visit. Based on the results of the field investigation, a total of approximately 1.39-acre of RWQCB jurisdictional area is located within the project site.

Drainages F and G exhibited evidence of an OHWM; however, these drainage features do not exhibit a surface hydrologic connection to any traditional navigable water or tributary to a traditional navigable waterway. Drainage F and Drainage G are intrastate isolated waters with no apparent interstate or foreign commerce connection which qualify as “Waters of the State” and fall under the regulatory authority of the RWQCB. Based on the results of the site visit, of the 1.39-acre of RWQCB jurisdictional area, Drainages F and G comprise approximately 0.21-acre of isolated waters.

CDFW Finding The unnamed drainages located within project boundaries exhibited a bed and bank, and are considered CDFW jurisdictional streambed. Based on the results of the field investigation, a total of approximately 1.39-acre of non-vegetated CDFW jurisdictional streambed is located within the project site.

5.4.1.2. AVOIDANCE AND MINIMIZATION EFFORTS Prior to the initiation of any grading and/or construction-related activity involving the disturbance and/or removal of any vegetation associated with project implementation, the project proponent shall install fencing, flagging, steel poles and rope, or other device to delineate the maximum limits disturbance acceptable to and under the supervision of a qualified biological monitor. The purpose of the fencing is to protect RWQCB/CDFW jurisdictional areas from inadvertent disturbance.

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 100 Chapter 5 Results: Permits and Technical Studies for Special Laws or Conditions

biological resources. The biological monitor shall periodically check the fencing; and shall notify the Construction Supervisor if it needs to be repaired.

5.4.1.3. PROJECT IMPACTS Both Alternatives 3 and 4 would permanently impact 1.18 acre of RWQCB/CDFW waters along Drainages B, C, D, E, and E1; it would also impact 0.21 acre of RWQCB/CDFW isolated waters in Drainages F and G.

5.4.1.4. COMPENSATORY MITIGATION Prior to initiation of construction, the City of Coachella shall obtain all necessary permits for impacts to RWQCB and CDFW jurisdictional areas. Mitigation for the loss of jurisdictional resources shall be negotiated with the resource agencies during the regulatory permitting process and shall ensure that mitigation to compensate for permanent impacts on jurisdictional resources is equivalent or superior to biological functions and values impacted by the proposed project. Potential mitigation options may include (1) removal of exotic species; (2) payment to a mitigation bank or regional riparian enhancement program; and/or (3) restoration of Mojave desert wash scrub either on site or off site at a ratio of no less than 1:1, determined through consultation with the RWQCB and the CDFW. If restoration is selected, a Mojave Desert Wash Scrub Restoration Plan shall be prepared by a qualified restoration biologist. The Restoration Plan shall include the following:

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 101 Chapter 5 Results: Permits and Technical Studies for Special Laws or Conditions

d. Schedule. A schedule will be developed which includes planting to occur in late fall and early winter, between October 1 and January 30.

g. Long-Term Preservation. Long-term preservation of the site will be outlined in the conceptual mitigation plan to ensure the mitigation site is not impacted by future development.

5.5. Invasive Species

The proposed project includes landscaping of the slopes adjacent to interchange improvements. Federal requirements prohibit planting of exotic species (Executive Order 13112) identified as invasive because seeds from invasive species could escape to natural areas and degrade native vegetation. Landscape improvements within Caltrans’ right-of-way will include hydroseeding of all disturbed slopes with native vegetation. Therefore, there would be no impact resulting from planting of invasive species. The following measure is recommended.

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 102 Chapter 5 Results: Permits and Technical Studies for Special Laws or Conditions

 Landscape designs should be submitted to Caltrans for review and approval by a qualified biologist. The review should determine that only species native to desert habitat types in the Coachella Valley would be used in landscaping. If some of the species selected are not appropriate for the BSA, suitable substitutes will be recommended by the reviewing biologist.

Landscaping plans should state that all mulch, topsoil, and seed mixes used during post-construction landscaping activities and erosion-control Best Management Practices (BMPs) implemented should be free of invasive plant species propagules. During construction, dirt or mud carried into the construction site on equipment/vehicle tires or undercarriages could inadvertently introduce non-native plant seeds into the BSA, thus degrading the native vegetation. Therefore, implementation of the following measure would reduce this impact to less than substantial.

 All construction equipment will be inspected and cleaned prior to use in the proposed project footprint to minimize the importation of non-native plant material.

5.6. Other

5.6.1. CV MSHCP The Final CV MSHCP was finalized in September 2007 by the CVAG; the City of Coachella, Caltrans and the Riverside County Transportation Department (County) are participants in the program. The CV MSHCP was developed to “balance environmental protection and economic development objectives in the CV MSHCP area and simplify compliance with Endangered species related laws” (CVAG 2007). The MSHCP covers approximately 1.2 million acres in the Coachella Valley and surrounding mountains in central Riverside County. The CV MSHCP will conserve approximately 745,900 acres and 27 Covered Species. A Reserve System will be established within 21 Conservation Areas based on occurrences of 27 natural communities that provide habitat for the Covered Species. When assembled, the Reserve System will provide for the conservation of the Covered Species in the CV MSHCP area. The Covered Species are indigenous to this area of Riverside County and have special status under the FESA and/or the CESA, or are species that are likely to become listed during the term of the permit. The CDFG (currently CDFW) issued the Natural Community Conservation Plan permit for the MSHCP on

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 103 Chapter 5 Results: Permits and Technical Studies for Special Laws or Conditions

September 9, 2008, and the USFWS issued the final permit for the MSHCP on October 1, 2008.

As part of the MSHCP requirements, Caltrans is obligated to acquire land and fund the Monitoring Program, Management Program, and Adaptive Management Program as described in Section 6.6.2 of the Final CV MSHCP. Caltrans is a State permittee and will contribute 5,791 acres to the assembly of the Additional Conservation Lands. Caltrans will provide $7.6 million to the Coachella Valley Conservation Commission for the Monitoring and Management Program for the 5,791 acres to be managed as part of the MSHCP Reserve System. The Project is named as a Covered Project in Section 7.2.3 of the CVAG Regional Road Projects. As such, CVAG is contributing $30 million of Measure A funds to Plan implementation to help accomplish the Permittees’ mitigation obligation. This payment meets the mitigation needs for transportation projects defined in Section 7.2.3; no other mitigation payment is required of the City of Coachella. These funds will contribute to conservation of high- quality native habitat within CV MSHCP Conservation Areas

The BSA for the proposed project is located within the Coachella Valley MSHCP area, but is not located within a Conservation Area. The CV MSHCP provides authorization under the FESA and CESA that allows the “take” of Covered Species, including loss of their habitat, if the project is consistent with the MSHCP requirements. As a participating jurisdiction in the MSHCP, Caltrans will be required to comply with all applicable reserve assembly measures in Section 4.3 of the MSHCP; however, because the proposed project is not located within a Conservation Area, no avoidance, minimization, or mitigation measures described in Sections 4.3, 4.4, and 9.0 of the Coachella Valley MSHCP would be applicable. The proposed project does not share a common boundary with a Conservation Area and therefore, the Land Use Adjacency Guidelines in Section 4.5 of the CV MSHCP would not be applicable.

5.6.2. Nesting Raptors Impacts on an active raptor nest or burrow (common or special status species) would be considered a violation of Sections 3503, 3503.5, and 3513 of the California Fish and Game Code. The proposed project has the potential to substantially affect nesting raptors, including the burrowing owl, prairie falcon, and American kestrel, should they occur within or adjacent to the impact area of the proposed project.

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 104 Chapter 5 Results: Permits and Technical Studies for Special Laws or Conditions

 Seven days prior to construction activities, a qualified biologist will conduct a survey to determine if any raptors are nesting in or adjacent to the impact area. If nesting is not occurring, construction work can proceed. If an active nest/burrow is present, construction work will be restricted within 250 feet of the nest/burrow (or as otherwise determined by the project biologist) until fledglings have left the nest. Results of the surveys will be provided to the CDFW. If nesting activity is present, the active site will be protected until nesting activity has ended to ensure compliance with Section 3503.5 of the California Fish and Game Code. Nesting activity for raptors in the region normally occurs from February 1 to June 30 (February 1 to August 31 for burrowing owl). To protect any nest/burrow site, the following restrictions on construction are required during the nesting season (or until nests/burrows are no longer active, as determined by a qualified biologist): Construction activities and access will not be allowed within 250 feet in any direction from any occupied nest/burrow. Any encroachment into the buffer area around the known nest will only be allowed if it is determined by a qualified biologist that the proposed activity will not disturb the nest occupants.

5.6.3. Nesting Birds The Migratory Bird Treaty Act protects the nests of all native bird species, including common species such as mourning dove and house finch. In addition to protecting nests located in native trees and shrubs, it also protects nests located on bare ground and on structures. If possible, construction should be initiated outside the peak bird nesting season (February 1 to August 31) to avoid impacts on nesting birds. If construction must be initiated during this time period, a nesting bird survey would be required prior to vegetation clearing to find all bird nests. Each nest observed during the survey would be protected by a buffer (size varies by species) where no construction activity is allowed until the nest has failed or the nestlings have fledged. This can be a constraint on proposed construction activities.

 If vegetation clearing would be conducted during the nesting season (February 1 to August 31), a qualified biologist will conduct a survey no more than three days prior to construction to determine if any birds are nesting in or adjacent to the impact area. If nesting is not occurring, construction work can proceed. If an active nest is present, construction work will be restricted within a buffer area until fledglings have left the nest. The size of the buffer will vary between 25 and 250 feet as determined by the biologist based on the sensitivity of the species,

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 105 Chapter 5 Results: Permits and Technical Studies for Special Laws or Conditions

location of the nest, and nature of the work with respect to the location of the nest. Any encroachment into the buffer area around the known nest will only be allowed if it is determined by a qualified biologist that the proposed activity will not disturb the nest occupants.

5.6.4. Wildlife Movement The alluvial wash and culverts passing beneath the I-10 within the BSA are currently used as wildlife crossings between habitat to the north and south of I-10. Smokey Gulch, the wash that crosses beneath I-10 in the eastern portion of the BSA, is at least 40 feet wide at its narrowest point allowing uninhibited movement for larger mammal species. The nearest crossing of this size in the vicinity of the BSA connecting areas of native habitat is approximately 2.8 miles to the east. In the vicinity of the BSA, wildlife corridors may not be defined because the surrounding area is primarily open space and is currently relatively unfragmented by development. This wash is expected to become a wildlife corridor in the future if proposed developments are constructed. The proposed project would not impact Smokey Gulch; therefore, impacts on wildlife movement would be considered less than substantial.

The increases in noise, lighting, and human activity associated with construction of a new interchange would be expected to have a potentially substantial effect on the use of areas adjacent to the wildlife travel routes. These indirect impacts are discussed individually below.

Construction of the on-ramps and off-ramps would increase in the number of roads that wildlife may attempt to cross, which may result in an increase in the number of road kills. This impact would be expected to be adverse, but less than substantial because it would not be expected to reduce wildlife populations in the region below self-sustaining levels.

5.6.5. Movement of Sand The BSA is not located in the sand source area for the Coachella Valley preserve system. Therefore, the proposed project would not be expected to impact the transport of sand.

5.6.6. Noise Impacts Indirect noise impacts resulting from traffic are currently present in the BSA due to existing traffic on I-10. During construction of the proposed project, noise levels may incrementally increase; however, this increase is not expected to be substantial. Temporary increases in noise levels are not expected to substantially impact wildlife

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 106 Chapter 5 Results: Permits and Technical Studies for Special Laws or Conditions

because resident animals are already somewhat acclimated to noise levels associated with traffic along the I-10. In addition, the impacts would occur away from the most sensitive area, Smokey Gulch, which provides a wildlife crossing. Furthermore, noise impacts resulting from construction would be relatively short-term. The project is not expected to result in substantial wildlife displacement due to increased disturbance resulting from construction noise. Construction-related noise impacts would be considered less than substantial; therefore, no mitigation would be required. However, the following measure is recommended:

 If practicable, the most noise-intensive portions of construction (e.g., pile- driving) should be conducted during the non-nesting bird season (September 1 to January 31).

Following project implementation, noise levels would incrementally increase over present levels due to increased traffic capacity. However, some noise is already present in the BSA resulting from traffic on I-10. The project is not expected to result in major wildlife displacement due to increased disturbance; however, some noise- sensitive wildlife species may move away from the new interchange structure north towards the mountains or southeast. Vast open space areas exist north and south of the proposed interchange. Therefore, the chronic (i.e., permanent) noise increase would be considered a less than substantial effect and no mitigation would be required.

5.6.7. Increased Dust and Urban Pollutants Grading activities would disturb soils and result in the accumulation of dust on the surface of the leaves of plant species. The respiratory function of the plants in the area would be impaired when dust accumulation is excessive. This indirect effect of construction of the proposed project on the native vegetation in the immediate vicinity of the construction area is considered adverse but less than substantial since it is not expected to be detrimental enough to result in plant mortality. Therefore, no mitigation would be required.

Improper disposal of petroleum and chemical products from construction equipment could impact water quality of runoff from construction. Urban runoff from the constructed improvements could also impact storm water runoff adjacent to the interchange during operation of the proposed project. Although there is no running water in the BSA, runoff could remain in standing puddles or small ponds temporarily, especially during the construction phase if heavy equipment compacts

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 107 Chapter 5 Results: Permits and Technical Studies for Special Laws or Conditions

the soil within the temporary impact area. Adverse effects on water quality could impact populations of terrestrial wildlife species that drink this water or plant species that occur in the immediate vicinity of the runoff. This indirect impact on water quality is considered a potentially substantial effect and the mitigation listed below would be required to reduce impacts to less than substantial.

 The proposed project will incorporate BMPs to ensure that the quantity and quality of runoff discharged into open space areas is not adversely affected. In particular, storm water systems will be designed to prevent (to the extent practicable) the runoff of toxins, chemicals, petroleum products, exotic plant materials, or other elements that might degrade biological resources in the adjacent open space area.

5.6.8. Night Lighting Night lighting in the vicinity of the interchange, during both construction and operation, would increase with construction of a new interchange because there is currently no lighting along this portion of I-10. Spillover of light into the adjacent open space would have an adverse impact on the foraging activities of nocturnal species (such as bats and other small mammals) and may also increase predation. This impact is considered a potentially substantial effect. Implementation of the mitigation measures below would reduce this impact to less than substantial.

 To the extent practicable, construction activities shall be limited to daylight hours in order to avoid indirect effects on nocturnal species as a result of night lighting.

 Permanent night lighting shall be directed away from open space areas. Lighting plans for permanent light fixtures shall be submitted for review by Caltrans during the project design phase to ensure that lighting has been reduced to the extent practicable.

5.6.9. Human Activity Construction of a new interchange would increase the amount of human activity in the vicinity of the interchange. This could include an increase in vehicle traffic, human foot traffic and, potentially, an increase in off-road vehicle activity in the vicinity of the interchange. These impacts already occur to some extent in the BSA and the increase is expected to be limited. These impacts due increased human activity would not be expected to substantially affect wildlife adjacent to the BSA; therefore, this effect is expected to be less than substantial.

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 108 Chapter 5 Results: Permits and Technical Studies for Special Laws or Conditions

5.6.10. Construction Monitoring Caltrans typically recommends that a biological monitor be present during certain phases of construction such as vegetation removal:

 Prior to the initiation of any grading and/or construction-related activity involving the disturbance and/or removal of any vegetation associated with project implementation, the project proponent shall install fencing, flagging, steel poles and rope, or other device to delineate the maximum limits disturbance acceptable to and under the supervision of a qualified biological monitor.

 The biological monitor shall be present on site during the initial vegetation clearing as well as on an as-needed basis to assist the project proponent in complying with the project mitigation and to provide guidance in avoiding and/or minimizing impacts on biological resources.

5.6.11. Exit Signage The proposed project also includes the installation of new exit signage along I-10, located both east and west of the proposed interchange. A total of 13 exit signs would be installed within Caltrans’ ROW (Figure 12). Six of the sign locations would be within the proposed interchange’s permanent or temporary footprint and their impacts are already accounted for in the preceding impact analysis. Seven sign locations are outside the existing BSA. Vegetation within these five small disturbance footprints was mapped using high resolution aerial imagery as either vegetated, disturbed, or developed. As shown in Table 32, a total of 0.58 acre would be impacted by the placement of the seven exit signs; of this, 0.47 acre of vegetation would be disturbed. As mentioned, all seven signs would be located within the existing ROW. None of these areas require additional focused surveys under the CV MSHCP. Therefore, the impacts related to impact signage would not change the findings for any of the species discussed in the preceding impact analysis. No additional mitigation measures would be required.

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 109 Chapter 5 Results: Permits and Technical Studies for Special Laws or Conditions

Table 32 Exit Signage Impacts for Signs Located Outside the BSA

Vegetation Type and Other Existing Areas (Acres) Vegetated 0.47 Disturbed 0.07 Developed 0.04 Total 0.58

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 110 Biological Study Area

Riverside County

Sign Location 1

Sign Location 2 Sign Location 3

Sign Sign Location 7 Location 6 Sign Sign Location 4 Location 5

Coachella I-10 / Avenue 50 Sign Plan 1,800 900 0 1,800 Feet I-10/Avenue 50, Riverside County, California Note: Two signs would be located within the permanent or temporary impact footprint PM 62.3 to PM 63.7 for the proposed interchange. Aerial Source: ESRI May 2010 D8-RIV-10 EA 08-45210 Figure 12

Chapter 6 References

Chapter 6. References

American Ornithologist’s Union (AOU). 1998. Check-List of North American Birds. 7th ed. American Ornithologist’s Union. Washington, D.C.

Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). 1987. Wetlands Delineation Manual. Technical Report Y-87-1, U.S. Army Engineer Waterways Experiment Station, Vicksburg, MS. NTIS No. AD A176 912

Baldwin, B.G., S. Boyd, B.J. Ertter, R.W. Patterson, T.J. Rosatti, D.H. Wilken, and M. Wetherwax. Editors. 2002. The Jepson Desert Manual: Vascular Plants of Southeastern California. University of California Press, Berkeley, California.

Bennett, A.F. 1990. Habitat Corridors: Their Role in Wildlife Management and Conservation, Department of Conservation and Environment, Melbourne, Australia.

Best, T.L., M.J. Harvey, and J.S. Altenbach. 1998. Bats of Alabama (poster). Alabama Agricultural Expt. Sta. Pub, 2. p.

BonTerra Consulting. 2001. Results of Desert Tortoise Surveys on the I-10/McNaughton Project Site, Riverside County, California. BonTerra Consulting, Costa Mesa, California.

BonTerra Consulting. 2001. Results of Palm Springs Round-tailed Ground Squirrel Surveys on the I-10/McNaughton Drive Project Site, Riverside County, California. BonTerra Consulting, Costa Mesa, California.

BonTerra Consulting. 2001. Results of Palm Springs Pocket Mouse (Perognathus longimembris bangsi) Live Trapping Program on the I-10/McNaughton Project Site, Riverside County, California. BonTerra Consulting, Costa Mesa, California.

California Department of Fish and Wildlife. California Interagency Wildlife Task Group. (2002). CWHR version 8.0 personal computer program. Sacramento, California.

California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW). 2003. List of California Terrestrial Natural Communities Recognized by the Natural Diversity Data Base. Wildlife and Habitat Data Analysis Branch, Sacramento, California.

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 111 Chapter 6 References

California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW). 2016. California Natural Diversity (RareFind) Database. California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Natural Heritage Division, Sacramento, California.

California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW). 2015. California Natural Diversity (RareFind) Database. California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Natural Heritage Division, Sacramento, California.

California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW). 2014a. California Natural Diversity (RareFind) Database. California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Natural Heritage Division, Sacramento, California.

California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW). 2014b. Special Vascular Plants, Bryophytes, and Lichens List. Wildlife and Habitat Data Analysis Branch, Sacramento, California.

California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), 2014c. Special Animals. Wildlife and Habitat Data Analysis Branch, Sacramento, California

California Department of Transportation. 2003. Project Study Report: In Riverside County, on Interstate 10 between 5.5 km east of Dillon Road and 14.6 km west of Cactus City Safety Roadside Rest Areas. EA 45210.

California Native Plant Society (CNPS). 2016. Inventory of Rare and Endangered Plants (online edition) California Native Plant Society. Sacramento, California. Accessed on June 17, 2016 from http://www.cnps.org /inventory.

California Native Plant Society (CNPS). 2015. Inventory of Rare and Endangered Plants (online edition) California Native Plant Society. Sacramento, California. Accessed on March 11, 2015 from http://www.cnps.org /inventory.

California Native Plant Society (CNPS). 2014. Inventory of Rare and Endangered Plants (online edition) California Native Plant Society. Sacramento, California. Accessed on February 27, 2014 from http://www.cnps.org /inventory.

Clark & Wheeler. 1987. A Field Guide to Hawks: North America. Houghton-Mifflin Company. Boston, Massachusetts.

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 112 Chapter 6 References

Coachella Valley Association of Governments (CVAG). 2007. Coachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan. http://www.cvmshcp.org.

Collins, J.T. and T.W. Taggart. 2002. Standard Common and Current Scientific names for North American Amphibians, Turtles, Reptiles and Crocodilians. Center for North American Herpetology.

Dudek & Associates. 2000. Species Account: Burrowing Owl. Western Riverside Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan – Appendix B. Riverside County Implementation Program (RCIP), Riverside, California.

Ehrlich, P.R., D.S. Dobkin, and D. Wheye. 1988. The Birder's Handbook: A Field Guide to the Natural History of North American Birds. Simon and Schuster, New York.

Farhig, L., and G. Merriam. 1985. Habitat Patch Connectivity and Population Survival. Ecology 66:1,792-1,768.

Flat-tailed Horned Lizard Interagency Coordinating Committee. 2003. Flat-tailed Horned Lizard Rangewide Management Strategy, 2003 revision. 78 pp. plus appendices.

Foreman, Larry D. ed. 1997. Flat-tailed Horned Lizard Rangewide Management Strategy. Flat-tailed Horned Lizard working Group of Interagency Coordinating Committee.

Garrett, K., and J. Dunn. 1981. Birds of Southern California: Status and Distribution. Audubon Press. Los Angeles.

Grinnell. 1993. Mammal Fauna of California. Univ. of California. Publ. Zool. 40:148.

Hall, E.R. 1981. The Mammals of North America, 2nd Edition. John Wiley and Sons, New York.

Hall, E.R., and K.R. Kelson. 1959. The Mammals of North America. The Ronald Press Co., New York, New York. 2 Vols.

Harris, L.D., and P.B. Gallagher. 1989. New Initiatives for Wildlife Conservation; The Need for Movement Corridors. Pages 11-34 in G. Mackintosh, ed. Preserving Communities and Corridors. Defenders of Wildlife., Washington, D.C. 96 pp.

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 113 Chapter 6 References

Holland, R.F. 1986. Preliminary Descriptions of the Terrestrial Natural Communities of California. Non-game Heritage Program, State of California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Sacramento, California.

Kays, Roland, and Don E. Wilson. 2003. Mammals of North America. Princeton, New Jersey.

Keeler-Wolf, T. 2005. Personal communication regarding locations of wand holdback stands.

Lackey, J.A. 1996. Chaetodipus fallax. Mammalian Species 517:1-6. American Society of Mammalogists.

LSA Associates, Inc. 1998. Directed Surveys for Sensitive Biological Species: McNaughton Land Exchange Coachella Valley, California. LSA Associates, Inc., Irvine, California.

MacArthur, R.H. and E.O. Wilson. 1967. The Theory of Island Biogeography. Princeton University Press. Princeton, New Jersey.

McDonald, M. 2001. Personal communication regarding modification of flat-tailed horned lizard survey protocol.

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

Noss, R.F. 1983. A Regional Landscape Approach to Maintain Diversity. BioScience 33:700-706. 1983.

Quinnell, Scott. Personal communication. 2006.

Rautenstrauch, K.R., D.L. Rakestraw, G.A. Brown, J.L. Boone, and P.E. Lederle. 2002. Patterns of Burrow Use by Desert Tortoises (Gopherus agassizii) in Southcentral Nevada. Chelonian Conservation and Biology, 4: 398-405.

RBF Consulting. 2014 (September). Interstate 10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project, City of Coachella, Delineation of State and Federal Jurisdictional Waters. Prepared for the City of Coachella and the California Department of Transportation, District 8.

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 114 Chapter 6 References

Remsen, J.V., Jr. 1978. Bird Species of Special Concern in California: An Annotated List of Declining or Vulnerable Bird Species. California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Sacramento. Wildlife Management Branch Administrative Report No. 78-1. 54pp.

Sawyer, J.O., and T. Keeler-Wolf. 1995. A Manual of California Vegetation. California Native Plant Society. Sacramento, California.

Simberloff, D., and J. Cox. 1987. Consequences and Costs of Conservation Corridors. Conservation Biology 1:63-71.

Soule, M.E. 1987. Viable Populations for Conservation. Cambridge University Press, New York, New York.

Stebbins, R.C. 2003. A Field Guide to Western Reptiles and Amphibians. 3rd ed. Houghton-Mifflin Company. Boston, Massachusetts.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 2016. List of threatened and endangered species occurring within the region.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 2015. List of threatened and endangered species occurring within the region.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 2013. List of threatened and endangered species occurring within the region.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 1997. Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Withdrawal of the Proposed Rule To List the Flat-Tailed Horned Lizard as Threatened. Federal Register 62(135): 37852-37860.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 1994. Desert Tortoise (Mojave Population) Recovery Plan. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Portland, Oregon.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 1992. Field Survey Protocol for Any Federal Action That May Occur Within the Range of the Desert Tortoise. January.

Williams, D.F. 1986. Mammalian Species of Special Concern in California. Wildlife Management Division Administrative Report 86-1, 112pp.

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 115 Chapter 6 References

Wright, D.H. 2004. Petition to Emergency-List Casey's June Beetle (Dinacoma caseyi) (Blaisdell 1930) as a Federally Endangered Species. On behalf of the Center for Biological Diversity and Sierra Club. Unpublished, 17 pp.

Zeiner, D.C., W.F. Laudenslayer Jr., K.E. Mayer, and M. White, eds. 1990. California’s Wildlife Vol. 3: Mammals. California Department of Fish and Wildlife, The Resources Agency, Sacramento, California.

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 116 Appendix A Results of Literature Review

Appendix A Results of the Literature Review: USFWS Official Species List, CNDDB, and CNPS Electronic Inventory

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 117 Appendix A Results of Literature Review

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 118

Appendix B Plant and Wildlife Compandia

Appendix B Plant and Wildlife Compendia

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 119 Appendix B Plant and Wildlife Compandia

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 120 Appendix B Plant and Wildlife Compandia

PLANT COMPENDIUM (Species Observed During Surveys)

Species ANGIOSPERMAE - FLOWERING PLANTS DICOTYLEDONES AMARANTHACEAE - AMARANTH FAMILY Tidestromia suffruticosa var. oblongifolia honeysweet APOCYNACEAE - DOGBANE FAMILY Asclepias subulata Rush milkweed Funastrum hirtellum [Sarcostemma hirtellum] trailing townula [rambling milkvine] ASTERACEAE (COMPOSITAE) - SUNFLOWER FAMILY Ambrosia dumosa white bursage Ambrosia salsola [Hymenochlea salsola] cheesebush Atrichoseris platyphylla tobacco plant Baccharis sergiloides (?) desert baccharis Bebbia juncea var. aspera sweetbush Chaenactis carphoclinia pebble pincushion Chaenactis fremontii Fremont pincushion Dicoria canescens desert dicoria Erigeron canadensis [Conyza canadensis] (?) common horseweed Encelia farinosa brittlebush Geraea canescens desert sunflower Isocoma acradenia var eremophila desert isocoma Malacothrix glabrata desert dandelion Monoptilon bellioides desert star Palafoxia arida Spanish needles Perityle emoryi Emory rock daisy Peucephyllum schottii pygmy cedar Psathyrotes ramosissima velvet rosettes Rafinesquia neomexicana desert chicory Sonchus oleraceus* common sow thistle Stephanomeria pauciflora wire-lettuce [desert straw] Trichoptilium incisum desert yellow-head Xylorhiza cognata Mecca-aster BORAGINACEAE - BORAGE FAMILY Cryptantha angustifolia narrow-leaved cryptantha Cryptantha barbigera bearded cryptantha Cryptantha maritima Guadalupe cryptantha Nama demissa purple mat Phacelia crenulata heliotrope phacelia Phacelia distans common phacelia Tiquilia palmeri Palmer's tiquilia Tiquilia plicata plicate tiquilia

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 121 Appendix B Plant and Wildlife Compandia

PLANT COMPENDIUM (Species Observed During Surveys)

Species BRASSICACEAE (CRUCIFERAE) - MUSTARD FAMILY Brassica tournefortii* Brassica tournefortii* wild turnip Lepidium lasiocarpum ssp. lasiocarpum hairy peppergrass / sand peppergrass Sisymbrium irio* London rocket CACTACEAE - CACTUS FAMILY Cylindropuntia echinocarpa [Opuntia echinocarpa] silver cholla Cylindropuntia ramosissima [Opuntia ramosissima] pencil cholla Echinocactus polycephalus var polycephalus cottontop cactus Ferocactus cylindraceus California barrel cactus Opuntia basilaris var. basilaris beavertail CARYOPHYLLACEAE - PINK FAMILY Achyronychia cooperi onyx flower CHENOPODIACEAE - GOOSEFOOT FAMILY Atriplex canescens four-wing saltbush Atriplex hymenelytra desert holly Atriplex polycarpa allscale Chenopodium murale* (?) nettle-leaved goosefoot Salsola tragus* Russian thistle CLEOMACEAE - CAPER FAMILY Peritoma arborea [Isomeris arborea] bladderpod CUCURBITACEAE - GOURD FAMILY Brandegea bigelovii desert star-vine EUPHORBIACEAE - SPURGE FAMILY Chamaesyce polycarpa golondrina / small-seed sandmat Croton californicus California croton Ditaxis neomexicana common ditaxis FABACEAE (LEGUMINOSAE) - LEGUME FAMILY Acmispon strigosus [Lotus strigosus] strigose lotus Dalea mollissima rust dalea Hoffmannseggia microphylla [Caealpinia virgata] wand holdback Lupinus microcarpus var. horizontalis chick lupine Parkinsonia florida [Cercidium floridum] blue palo verde Psorothamnus emoryi Emory's indigo bush Psorothamnus schottii indigo-bush Psorothamnus spinosus smoke tree Senegalia greggii [Acacia greggii] catclaw acacia FOUQUIERIACEAE - OCOTILLO FAMILY Fouquieria splendens ssp splendens ocotillo LAMIACEAE (LABIATAE) - MINT FAMILY Condea emoryi [Hyptis emoryi] desert lavender Salvia columbariae chia LOASACEAE - LOASA FAMILY

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 122 Appendix B Plant and Wildlife Compandia

PLANT COMPENDIUM (Species Observed During Surveys)

Species Mentzelia involucrata san blazing star MALVACEAE - MALLOW FAMILY Eremalche rotundifolia desert fivespot Hibiscus denudatus pale face NYCTAGINACEAE - FOUR-O'CLOCK FAMILY Abronia villosa var. villosa sand-verbena Allionia incarnata trailing windmills Mirabilis laevis var. villosa [Mirabilis bigelovii] desert wishbone bush ONAGRACEAE - EVENING PRIMROSE FAMILY Chylismia cardiophylla [Camissonia cardiophylla] heart-leaved camissonia Chylismia claviformis [Camissonia claviformis] Peirson's evening primrose Eremothera boothii ssp condensata [Camissonia boothii desert lantern ssp condensata] Eremothera boothii ssp decorticans [Camissonia boothii shredding primrose ssp decorticans] PAPAVERACEAE - POPPY FAMILY Eschscholzia minutiflora small-flowered poppy Eschscholzia parishii (?) Parish's gold poppy PHRYMACEAE - LOPSEED FAMILY Mimulus bigelovii Bigelow monkeyflower PLANTAGINACEAE - PLANTAIN FAMILY Mohavea confertiflora ghost flower Plantago ovata woolly plantain POLEMONIACEAE - PHLOX FAMILY Aliciella latifolia [Gilia latifolia] broad-leaved aliciella [broad-leaved gilia] Eriastrum eremicum ssp. eremicum desert woollystar Loeseliastrum schottii Schott's langloisia POLYGONACEAE - BUCKWHEAT FAMILY Chorizanthe brevicornu brittle spineflower Chorizanthe corrugata wrinkled spineflower Chorizanthe rigida devil's spineflower Eriogonum deflexum skeleton weed Eriogonum inflatum desert trumpet Eriogonum thomasii Thomas' wild buckwheat Eriogonum trichopes (?) little desert trumpet RESEDACEAE - MIGNONETTE FAMILY Oligomeris linifolia narrow-leaved oligomeris SOLANACEAE - NIGHTSHADE FAMILY Datura discolor jimsonweed, desert thorn-apple Datura wrightii jimson weed Nicotiana obtusifolia desert tobacco Physalis crassifolia thick-leaved ground cherry

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 123 Appendix B Plant and Wildlife Compandia

PLANT COMPENDIUM (Species Observed During Surveys)

Species TAMARICACEAE - TAMARISK FAMILY Tamarix aphylla* athel Tamarix ramosissima* Mediterranean tamarix ZYGOPHYLLACEAE - CALTROP FAMILY Fagonia laevis smooth-stem fagonia Larrea tridentata creosote bush MONOCOTYLEDONES - MONOCOTS POACEAE [GRAMINEAE] - GRASS FAMILY Aristida adscensionis sixweeks three-awn Aristida purpurea three-awn Avena fatua* wild oat Avena sativa* cultivated oat Bouteloua aristidoides var. aristidoides needle grama Bouteloua barbata var barbata six-weeks grama Cynodon dactylon* bermuda grass Dasyochloa pulchellum [Erioneuron pulchellum] low fluffgrass Hordeum murinum* barley Phalaris paradoxa* paradox canary grass Schismus barbatus* Mediterranean schismus * non-native species (?) Species identification not confirmed usually because the plant was lacking structures needed in identification, but represents the botanist's best guess

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 124 Appendix B Plant and Wildlife Compandia

WILDLIFE COMPENDIUM (Species Observed During Surveys)

Species REPTILES IGUANIDAE - IGUANID LIZARDS Dipsosaurus dorsalis desert iguana PHRYNOSOMATIDAE - ZEBRA-TAILED, FRINGE-TOED, SPINY, TREE, SIDE- BLOTCHED, & HORNED LIZARDS Callisaurus draconoides zebra-tailed lizard Uta stansburiana side-blotched lizard Urosaurus graciosus long-tailed brush lizard Phrynosoma blainvillii Blainville's [coast] horned lizard Phrynosoma platyrhinos desert horned lizard TEIIDAE - WHIPTAIL LIZARDS Aspidoscelis [Cnemidophorus] tigris tigris Great Basin whiptail Aspidoscelis [Cnemidophorus] tigris western whiptail VIPERIDAE - VIPERS Crotalus mitchelii speckled rattlesnake Crotalus cerastes sidewinder BIRDS AVES - BIRDS ODONTOPHORIDAE - QUAILS Callipepla californica California quail Callipepla gambelii Gambel's quail ACCIPITRIDAE - HAWKS, KITES, EAGLES, & ALLIES Buteo jamaicensis red-tailed hawk FALCONIDAE - FALCONS Falco sparverius American kestrel Falco mexicanus prairie falcon COLUMBIDAE - PIGEONS & DOVES Columba livia * rock pigeon Zenaida asiatica white-winged dove Zenaida macroura mourning dove CUCULIDAE - CUCKOOS & ROADRUNNERS Geococcyx californianus greater roadrunner STRIGIDAE - TRUE OWLS Bubo virginianus great horned owl Athene cunicularia burrowing owl CAPRIMULGIDAE - GOATSUCKERS Chordeiles acutipennis lesser nighthawk Phalaenoptilus nuttallii common poorwill APODIDAE - SWIFTS Aeronautes saxatalis white-throated swift TROCHILIDAE - HUMMINGBIRDS Archilochus alexandri black-chinned hummingbird Calypte costae Costa's hummingbird

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 125 Appendix B Plant and Wildlife Compandia

WILDLIFE COMPENDIUM (Species Observed During Surveys)

Species PICIDAE - WOODPECKERS Picoides scalaris ladder-backed woodpecker TYRANNIDAE - TYRANT FLYCATCHERS Sayornis saya Say's phoebe Myiarchus cinerascens ash-throated flycatcher LANIIDAE - SHRIKES Lanius ludovicianus loggerhead shrike CORVIDAE - CROWS & JAYS Corvus brachyrhynchos American crow Corvus corax common raven HIRUNDINIDAE - SWALLOWS Stelgidopteryx serripennis northern rough-winged swallow Hirundo rustica barn swallow REMIZIDAE - VERDIN Auriparus flaviceps verdin TROGLODYTIDAE - WRENS Salpinctes obsoletus rock wren POLIOPTILIDAE - GNATCATCHERS & GNATWRENS Polioptila melanura black-tailed gnatcatcher MIMIDAE - THRASHERS Mimus polyglottos northern mockingbird PARULIDAE - WARBLERS Oreothlypis [Vermivora] celata orange-crowned warbler Geothlypis tolmiei [Oporornis tolmiei] MacGillivray's warbler Setophaga petechia [Dendroica petechia] yellow warbler Setophaga nigrescens [Dendroica nigrescens] black-throated gray warbler EMBERIZIDAE - SPARROWS & JUNCOS Amphispiza bilineata black-throated sparrow Melospiza lincolnii Lincoln's sparrow CARDINALIDAE - CARDINALS & ALLIES Piranga ludoviciana western tanager ICTERIDAE - BLACKBIRDS Sturnella neglecta western meadowlark Xanthocephalus xanthocephalus yellow-headed blackbird Quiscalis mexicanus great-tailed grackle FRINGILLIDAE - FINCHES Carpodacus mexicanus house finch Spinus [Carduelis] psaltria lesser goldfinch

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 126 Appendix B Plant and Wildlife Compandia

WILDLIFE COMPENDIUM (Species Observed During Surveys)

Species MAMMALS MAMMALIA - MAMMALS LEPORIDAE - HARES & RABBITS Sylvilagus audubonii desert cottontail Lepus californicus black-tailed jackrabbit SCIURIDAE - SQUIRRELS Ammospermophilus leucurus white-tailed antelope squirrel GEOMYIDAE - POCKET GOPHERS Thomomys bottae Botta's pocket gopher HETEROMYIDAE - POCKET MICE & KANGAROO RATS Perognathus longimembris bangsi Palm Springs pocket mouse Chaetodipus penicillatus desert pocket mouse Chaetodipus spinatus spiny pocket mouse Dipodomys merriami Merriam's kangaroo rat MURIDAE - MICE, RATS, & VOLES Neotoma lepida desert woodrat CANIDAE - WOLVES & FOXES Canis latrans coyote Vulpes macrotis kit fox MUSTELIDAE - WEASELS, OTTERS, & BADGERS Taxidea taxus American badger (burrow) FELIDAE - CATS Lynx rufus bobcat * introduced species

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 127

Appendix C Results of Special Status Plant Surveys

Appendix C Results of Special Status Plant Survey

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 129 Appendix C Results of Special Status Plant Surveys

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 130

November 1, 2006

Mr. Bruce Grove RBF Consulting 14725 Alton Parkway Irvine, CA 92618

Subject: Results of Special Status Plant Surveys on the Interstate-10 and McNaughton Parkway Interchange Project Site, Coachella Valley, Riverside County, California

Dear Mr. Grove:

This Letter Report presents the results of special status plant surveys conducted on the Interstate-10 (I-10)/McNaughton Parkway Interchange project site (hereafter referred to as the project site) in the Coachella Valley northeast of the City of Coachella in Riverside County.

Project Location and Description

The I-10/McNaughton Parkway Interchange project site is located in the Coachella Valley, Riverside County (Exhibit 1). The project site is located east of the City of Indio and northeast of the City of Coachella on the I-10 between the existing Dillon Road Interchange and the I-10/Cactus City Safety Roadside Rest Areas (Exhibit 2). The survey area includes the current proposed disturbance limits for construction of the new interchange and a 500-foot buffer. Elevations in the survey area range from approximately 165 to 495 feet above mean sea level. The survey area is located on the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) 7.5-Minute Indio and Thermal Canyon quadrangle maps and is within the area covered by the Draft Coachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan.

The survey area is comprised primarily of natural open space. The southern portion of the survey area can be characterized as a broad bajada.1 North of the freeway, the survey area includes foothills and canyons south of the Little San Bernardino Mountains. In general, the bajada and hills are covered by sparse desert shrubland dominated by creosote bush (Larrea tridentata), indigo bush (Psorothamnus schottii), burrobush (Ambrosia dumosa), and cheesebush (Hymenochlea salsola). Vegetation types and other areas mapped in the survey area include desert annual grassland, desert wash scrub, desert saltbush scrub, creosote bush scrub, cheesebush-sweetbush scrub, white bursage-indigo bush scrub, creosote bush-indigo bush scrub, wand holdback, disturbed/unvegetated, and developed (Exhibit 3).

1 an alluvial plain formed at the base of a mountain by the coalescing of several alluvial fans (www.dictionary.com).

Mr. Bruce Grove November 1, 2006 Page 2

The following soil types are located in the survey area: Badland, Carsitas cobbly sand, and Carsitas gravelly sand (Exhibit 4). The northeastern portion of the survey area has no soil data available because the area has not been surveyed by USGS.

Survey Methodology

Before the field survey, available literature was reviewed to identify special status plants and vegetation types known from the survey area and vicinity. The California Natural Diversity Data Base (CNDDB) (California Department of Fish and Game [CDFG] 2006a) and the California Native Plant Society (CNPS) On-line Electronic Inventory (CNPS 2006) were reviewed. In addition, compendia of special status species listed by the US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and CDFG (2006b) were reviewed. All species identified by this literature review and other species known from the general region are included in Attachment A, which lists special status plants known from comparable habitats in the region and summarizes their natural history, agency status, and occurrence probability in the survey area.

Scott White, Consulting Botanist, visited the survey area on March 14, 23, and 29, 2006. Pam DeVries, Senior Botanist from Bonterra Consulting, accompanied Mr. White on March 14, 2006, and Andrea Warniment, Botanist from Bonterra Consulting, accompanied Mr. White on March 23 and 29, 2006. Surveys were particularly intended to evaluate habitat suitability for the federally Endangered Coachella Valley milk-vetch (Astragalus lentiginosus var. coachellae) and other special status plants occurring in the general region (Attachment A).

During the field surveys, all accessible roads, trails, canyons, and washes throughout the survey area were walked, and meandering transects were used on slopes and ridges. These surveys provided systematic coverage of all habitats within the survey area.

All plant species observed were identified in the field or collected for later identification. Plants were identified using keys, descriptions, and illustrations in Baldwin et al. (2002), Hickman (1993), Munz (1974), Abrams (1951), Abrams and Ferris (1960), and other regional references. All species noted in the survey area are listed in Attachment B. In conformance with CDFG guidelines (2000), surveys were: (a) conducted during flowering seasons for the special status plants known from the area; (b) floristic in nature; (c) consistent with conservation ethics; (d) systematically covered all habitat types in the survey area; and (e) well documented, by this report and by voucher specimens to be deposited at Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden.

Survey Results

One special-status plant, Mecca-aster (Xylorhiza cognata), was observed in the survey area (Table 1; Exhibit 5). Additional information about this species is provided below. No federally or state-listed Threatened or Endangered species were observed in the survey area.

Mecca-aster (Xylorhiza cognata)

Mecca-aster is a CNPS List 1B species. This perennial herb typically blooms between January and June (CNPS 2006). It is found on gypsum clays in creosote bush scrub habitat (Munz 1974). It occurs in arid canyons from approximately 70 to 790 feet above mean sea level (Baldwin et al. 2002). Mecca-aster is endemic to the Indio Hills and the Mecca Hills; it typically occurs in these fluvial hills in washes and along the lower slopes (CVAG 2005). It is known from Riverside and Imperial counties (CNPS 2006), and it is known to occur from the Coachella

Mr. Bruce Grove November 1, 2006 Page 3

Valley Preserve east along the base of the Indio Hills; most known occurrences are along roads or well-traveled hiking routes (CVAG 2005). Approximately six plants were observed in the survey area during the focused surveys. They were located on a steep, poorly consolidated slope of a canyon wall just above the I-10 Freeway Right of Way. This is the same location where they were incidentally observed during vegetation mapping (BonTerra Consulting 2006). A CNDDB form for this observation has been submitted to CDFG (Attachment C).

TABLE 1 RESULTS OF SPECIAL STATUS PLANT SURVEY

Status Special Status Plants USFWS CDFG CNPS Results Abronia villosa var. aurita Not observed during — — 1B.1 Chaparral sand-verbena focused surveys. Astragalus crotalariae Not observed during — — 4.3 Salton Sea milk-vetch focused surveys Astragalus lentiginosus var. borreganus Not observed during — — 4.3 Borrego milk-vetch focused surveys Astragalus lentiginosus var. coachellae Not observed during FE — 1B.2 Coachella Valley milk-vetch focused surveys Astragalus nutans Not observed during — — 4.3 Providence Mountains milk-vetch focused surveys Astragalus tricarinatus Not observed during FE — 1B.2 Triple-ribbed milk-vetch focused surveys Atriplex parishii Not observed during — — 1B.1 Parish's smallscale focused surveys Ayenia compacta Not observed during — — 2.3 Ayenia focused surveys Bursera microphylla Not observed during — — 2.3 Elephant tree focused surveys Castela emoryi Not observed during — — 2.3 Crucifixion thorn focused surveys Chamaesyce arizonica Not observed during (Euphorbia arizonica) — — 2.2 focused surveys Arizona spurge Chamaesyce platysperma Not observed during (Euphorbia platysperma) — — 1B.2 focused surveys Flat-seeded spurge Colubrina californica Not observed during — — 2.3 Las Animas colubrina focused surveys Cryptantha costata Not observed during — — 4.3 Ribbed cryptantha focused surveys Cryptantha holoptera Not observed during — — 4.3 Winged cryptantha focused surveys Cynanchum utahense Not observed during (Astephanus utahensis) — — 4.3 focused surveys Utah vine milkweed Ditaxis californica Not observed during (Ditaxis serrata var. californica) — — 3.2 focused surveys California ditaxis

Mr. Bruce Grove November 1, 2006 Page 4

Status Special Status Plants USFWS CDFG CNPS Results Ditaxis clariana Not observed during (D. claryana, D. adenophora) — — 2.2 focused surveys Glandular ditaxis Escobaria vivipara var. alversonii Not observed during (Coryphantha alversonii, C. vivipara var. focused surveys — — 4.3 alversonii) Alverson's foxtail cactus Horsfordia alata Not observed during — — 4.3 Pink velvet-mallow focused surveys Horsfordia newberryi Not observed during — — 4.3 Newberry velvet-mallow focused surveys Linanthus floribundus ssp. hallii Not observed during (Leptosiphon f. ssp. hallii) — — 1B.3 focused surveys Santa Rosa Mountains linanthus Lycium parishii Not observed during — — 2.3 Parish's desert thorn focused surveys Mentzelia tridentata Not observed during — — 1B.3 Creamy blazing star focused surveys Nemacaulis denudata var. gracilis Not observed during — — 2.2 Slender woolly-heads focused surveys Phaseolus filiformis Not observed during (= P. wrightii) — — 2.3 focused surveys Slender-stem bean Saltugilia latimeri (segr. from Gilia Not observed during [Saltugilia] australis) — — 1B.2 focused surveys Latimer’s woodland gilia Salvia greatae Not observed during — — 1B.3 Orocopia sage focused surveys Selaginella eremophila Not observed during — — 2.2 Desert spike-moss focused surveys Senna covesii Not observed during (Cassia covesii) — — 2.2 focused surveys Coves’s cassia Xylorhiza cognata Observed — — 1B.2 Mecca-aster Federal (USFWS) State (CDFG) FE Endangered SE Endangered FT Threatened ST Threatened PE Proposed Endangered SR Rare PT Proposed Threatened PE/T Proposed Endangered/Threatened

California Native Plant Society (CNPS) List Categories List 1A Plants Presumed Extinct in California List 1B Plants Rare, Threatened, or Endangered in California and Elsewhere List 2 Plants Rare, Threatened, or Endangered in California But More Common Elsewhere List 3 Plants About Which We Need More Information − A Review List List 4 Plants of Limited Distribution − A Watch List

California Native Plant Society (CNPS) Threat Code Extensions None Plants lacking any threat information .1 Seriously Endangered in California (over 80% of occurrences threatened; high degree and immediacy of threat) .2 Fairly Endangered in California (20−80% of occurrences threatened) .3 Not very Endangered in California (less than 20% of occurrences threatened or no current threats known)

Mr. Bruce Grove November 1, 2006 Page 5

If you have any questions or comments, please contact Amber Oneal at (714) 444-9199.

Sincerely,

BONTERRA CONSULTING

Amber S. Oneal Project Manager/Ecologist

cc: Scott White, Scott White Biological Consulting

Attachments: Exhibits 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 Attachment A – Special Status Plant Species Attachment B – Plant Species Observed Attachment C – CNDDB Form

References

Abrams, L. 1951. Illustrated Flora of the Pacific States. Vols. I, II, and III. Stanford, California: Stanford University Press.

Abrams & R. Ferris. 1960. Illustrated Flora of the Pacific States. Vol. IV: Bignonias to Sunflowers (Bignoniaceae to Compositae).. Stanford, California: Stanford University Press.

Baldwin, B., S. Boyd, B.J. Ertter, R.W. Patterson, T.J. Rosatti,, D.H. Wilken, and M. Wetherwax (eds.) 2002. Jepson Desert Manual. Berkeley, California: University of California Press.

BonTerra Consulting. 2006. Natural Environmental Study for the Interstate-10/McNaughton Parkway Interchange. Costa Mesa, California: BonTerra Consulting.

California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG). 2006a. California Natural Diversity Database. Records of Occurrence for USGS Thermal Canyon, Indio, Lost Horse Canyon, and West Berdoo Canyon 7.5′ topographic quads. Sacramento, CA: CDFG, Natural Heritage Division.

———.2006b. Special Vascular Plants, Bryophytes, and Lichens List. Sacramento, CA: CDFG, Natural Heritage Division.

———. 2000. Guidelines for assessing the effects of proposed projects on rare, threatened, and endangered plants and plant communities. Unpublished. Sacramento, California: CDFG.

California Native Plant Society. 2006. Electronic Inventory of Rare and Endangered Vascular Plants of California. Records of Occurrence for USGS Thermal Canyon, Indio, Lost Horse Canyon, and West Berdoo Canyon 7.5′ topographic quads. Sacramento, CA: CNPS. http://www.cnps.org/inventory.

Mr. Bruce Grove November 1, 2006 Page 6

———. 2001. Inventory of Rare and Endangered Vascular Plants of California (6th ed.). Rare Plant Scientific Advisory Committee, D.P. Tibor (Convening Editor). Sacramento, CA: CNPS.

Felger, R.S. 2000. Flora of the Gran Desierto and Rio Colorado of Northwestern Mexico. Tucson, Arizona: University of Arizona Press.

Coachella Valley Association of Governments (CVAG). 2005. Coachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan/Natural Community Conservation Plan (Draft Final Plan). Palm Desert, California. http://www.cvmshcp.org.

Hickman, J. C. 1993. The Jepson Manual: Higher Plants of California. Berkeley, California: University of California Press.

Kearney, T.H. and R.H. Peebles. 1960. Arizona Flora (2nd ed., with Supplement). Berkeley, California: University of California Press.

McDougall, W.B. 1973. Seed Plants of Northern Arizona. Flagstaff, Arizona: Museum of Northern Arizona.

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

Shreve, F. and I.L. Wiggins. 1964. Vegetation and Flora of the Sonoran Desert. Stanford, California: Stanford University Press.

Turner, R.M., J.E. Bowers, and T.L. Burgess. 1995. Sonoran Desert Plants: An Ecological Atlas. Tucson, Arizona: University of Arizona Press.

US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 2004 (4 May). Endangered and threatened wildlife and plants: review of species that are candidates or proposed for listing as endangered or threatened. Federal Register 69:24876–24904. Washington, D.C.: USFWS.

Kern ST58 ut95

Needles

e l

e ¨§40 g

n ut395

s Apple

o 15 United States Victorville ¨§ Valley ST138 L ST18 ST18 Marine Corps Bristol Lake Training Center ut95 Hesperia ST247 San Bernardino ST173 ST18 Angeles National Forest Cadiz Lake National Forest ST138 Big ST18 Danby Rancho Bear Lake ST330 Lake Cucamonga ST38 Twentynine Palms ¨§210 ST30 ST62 San Bernardino Ontario San Bernardino ¨§605 60 ST Riverside Desert ST142 Riverside ST72 Hot Springs ST71 60 ST91 ST ST57 Moreno Valley Joshua Tree Corona ST111 ST177 ¨§5 Perris ST79 ST241 O San National Park r ¨§215 Jacinto ST243 a Palm Springs Project Location Santa Ana n 15 39 g ¨§ ST111 Indio ST 405 e ¨§ ST241 ST74 [_ Irvine ¨§10 Lake ST79 ST1 ST74 Elsinore Laguna ST371 ST111 a Beach ST78 n Temecula o z ST79 Salton PACIFIC San ri Clemente Camp A OCEAN Pendleton San Diego Sea Imperial

ST86 ¨§5 ¨§15 ST78 D:\Projects\RBF\J216\regional.mxd Regional Location Exhibit 1 I-10/McNaughton Parkway Interchange

2010 0 20 Miles ² R:\Projects\RBF\J216\Graphics\Ex1_RL_120505.pdf

Survey Area

Source: USGS Quad Indio and Thermal Canyon D:\Projects\RBF\J216\vicinity.mxd

Local Vicinity Exhibit 2 I-10/McNaughton Parkway Interchange

2,0001,000 0 2,000 ² Feet R:\Projects\RBF\J216\Graphics\Ex2_LV_062606.pdf

Survey Area Vegetation Types and Other Areas Desert Annual Grassland Desert Wash Scrub Desert Saltbush Scrub Creosote Bush Scrub Cheesebush - Sweetbush Scrub White Bursage - Indigo Bush Scrub Creosote Bush - Indigo Bush Scrub Wand Holdback (Unique Stand) Disturbed/Unvegetated Developed D:/Projects/RBF/216/Ex_BR_010406.mxd

Vegetation Types Exhibit 3 I-10/McNaughton Parkway Interchange

600300 0 600

² Feet R:/Projects/RBF/216/Ex3_BR_062606.pdf

CoB CoB

ChC

BA CdC

BA ChC

CdC

Survey Area Soil Type No Data CoB, CHUCKAWALLA VERY GRAVELLY SANDY CLAY LOAM, 2 TO 5 PERCENT SLOPES ChC, CARSITAS COBBLY SAND, 2 TO 9 PERCENT SLOPES CdC, CARSITAS GRAVELLY SAND, 0 TO 9 PERCENT SLOPES BA, BADLAND Source: United States Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service D:/Projects/RBF/J216/Ex_soils_010506.mxd

Soil Types Exhibit 4 I-10/McNaughton Parkway Interchange

² 1,000500 0 1,000 Feet R:/Projects/RBF/J216/Ex4_soils_062606.pdf

Mecca-aster (Xylorhiza cognata) Survey Area D:/Projects/RBF/J216/Ex_ssPlants_010406.mxd

Special Status Plant Species Location Exhibit 5 I-10/McNaughton Parkway Interchange

² 1,000500 0 1,000 Feet R:/Projects/RBF/J216/Ex5_ssPlants_062606.pdf

ATTACHMENT A

SPECIAL STATUS PLANT SPECIES

ATTACHMENT A SPECIAL STATUS PLANT SPECIES KNOWN TO OCCUR IN THE PROJECT VICINITY

Flower Status Occurrence Special Status Plants Habitat and Distribution season Designation Probability Abronia villosa var. aurita Perennial herb; sand, mostly alluvial fans Feb–July Fed: None Low (field Chaparral sand-verbena and benches below about 5000 ft. elev.; Calif: 2.1 survey, margin San Jacinto Mtns and adjacent W. Riv. Co., CNPS: List of geographic low desert, and interior San Diego Co. 1B.1 range, poorly suitable habitat) Astragalus crotalariae Perennial herb; sandy flats and alluvial fans Jan–April Fed: None Low (field Salton Sea milk-vetch below about 850 ft. elev.; Sonoran Desert Calif: S 3.3 survey) (Riverside, Imperial, San Diego counties), to CNPS: List 4.3 Arizona and Baja Calif. Astragalus lentiginosus var. Annual; windblown or stabilized sand, E Feb–May Fed: None Minimal (field borreganus Mojave Des, Sonoran Des (mostly in south), Calif: S 3.3 survey, little or Ariz., Baja, Sonora (Mex.); below about 800 CNPS: List 4.3 no suitable Borrego milk-vetch ft. elev. habitat) Astragalus lentiginosus var. Annual or perennial herb; open sand, Feb–May Fed: END Minimal (field coachellae generally dunes but sometimes wash Calif: S 2.1 survey, little or margins; below about 2200 ft. elev.; CNPS: List no suitable Coachella Valley milk-vetch endemic to Coachella and Chuckwalla 1B.2 habitat) Valleys Astragalus nutans Annual; desert shrubland, pinyon & juniper March– Fed: None Minimal (field Providence Mountains milk- woodland; Colorado and E Mojave Deserts June; Calif: S3.3 survey, below (San Bern., Riv., Imp. counties), about 1500 October CNPS: List 4.3 elev. range) vetch - 6400 ft. elev. Astragalus tricarinatus Perennial herb; exposed rocky slopes, Feb–May Fed: END Minimal (below Triple-ribbed milk-vetch canyon walls, alluvial fans; Whitewater Calif: S 1.2 elev. range, Canyon, Mission Creek, and Morongo CNPS: List well east of Canyon areas; about 1500 to 5000 ft. elev. 1B.2 known range) Atriplex parishii Annual herb, alkali sink, saltbush scrub; June– Fed: None Minimal (field Parish's smallscale Central Valley, Hemet area, Coachella October Calif: S1.1 survey, no Valley CNPS: List suitable habitat) 1B.1 Ayenia compacta Perennial herb; desert shrublands, generally March–April Fed: None Low (suitable Ayenia in washes below about 1500 ft. elev.; Calif: S3.3 habitat occurs; Sonoran desert margins, S. Calif., Baja, and CNPS: List 2.3 not seen during Sonora (Mex.) surveys) Bursera microphylla Drought-deciduous tree; rocky slopes, about June–July Fed: None Minimal (field Elephant tree 600-2300 ft. elev.; scattered occurrences in Calif: S2.3 surveys, lower Imp., Riv., San Diego counties; to AZ, Baja, CNPS: List 2.3 margin of elev. and mainland Mexico range) Castela emoryi Shrub; widespread but rare, Calif. deserts, June–July Fed: None Minimal (field Crucifixion thorn Ariz., Baja and Sonora (Mexico); slopes, Calif: S2.2 surveys, lower washes, bajadas; generally fine-textured CNPS: List 2.3 margin of elev. alluvium, about 350-2100 ft. elev. range) Chamaesyce arizonica Perennial herb; sandy flats (in Calif.); Palm March–April Fed: None Minimal (no (Euphorbia arizonica) Springs and Borrego Valley areas in Calif.; Calif: S 1.3 suitable habitat) E to Texas and mainland Mexico, S to CNPS: List 2.2 Arizona spurge central Baja; below about 1000 ft. elev. Chamaesyce platysperma Annual; desert dunes below about 100 ft. Feb–Sept. Fed: None Minimal (no (Euphorbia platysperma) elev; near-endemic to Sonora (Mex.); Calif: S1.2? suitable dunes) reported from a few Calif. sites incl. CNPS: List Flat-seeded spurge Coachella Valley 1B.2 Colubrina californica Shrub; Joshua Tree Nat. Park, Eagle Mtns; April–May Fed: None Low (field Las Animas colubrina Sonoran desert shrubland, about 1100-3900 Calif: S3.3 surveys, slightly ft. elev.; rare in Calif., more common in Ariz. CNPS: List 2.3 below elev.

and Mexico range)

A-1 ATTACHMENT A (Continued) SPECIAL STATUS PLANT SPECIES KNOWN TO OCCUR IN THE PROJECT VICINITY

Flower Status Occurrence Special Status Plants Habitat and Distribution season Designation Probability Cryptantha costata Annual; windblown and stabilized sand, Feb–May Fed: None Minimal (no Ribbed cryptantha desert shrublands; E Mojave and Sonoran Calif: S3.3 suitable habitat) Deserts , to Arizona & Baja; below about CNPS: List 4.3 1650 ft. elev. Cryptantha holoptera Annual herb; desert shrublands, E Mojave March–April Fed: None Low (field Winged cryptantha Desert, Sonoran Desert, to W Arizona and Calif: S? surveys) Nevada (widely scattered); about 100 - CNPS: List 4.3

4000 ft. elev. Cynanchum utahense Climbing per herb; sandy or gravelly soils, April–June Fed: None Low (field (Astephanus utahensis) Mojave Desert and W margin Sonoran Des, Calif: S3.3 surveys) to S Nevada, NW Ariz., and SW Utah; about CNPS: List 4.3 Utah vine milkweed 500 - 4700 ft. elev. Ditaxis californica Perennial herb; sandy washes and canyons, March–Dec Fed: None Low (field (Ditaxis serrata var. californica) La Quinta E to Desert Center, also Anza Calif: S2.2 surveys) Borrego; about 150-3250 ft. elev. CNPS: List 3.2 California ditaxis Ditaxis clariana Perennial herb. Conflicting info. in literature. conflicting Fed: None Low (field (D. claryana, D. adenophora) Sandy soils below about 350 ft. elev.; or literature Calif: S1S2 surveys) rocky uplands & sandy washes to 3000 ft.; reports CNPS: List 2.2 Glandular ditaxis Sonoran Desert, Calif. to Ariz. and mainland Mexico Escobaria vivipara var. alversonii Cactus; desert scrub, S Mojave Desert and May–June Fed: None Low (field (Coryphantha alversonii, C. Sonoran Desert below about 2000 ft. elev.; Calif: S3.2 surveys) Riverside, San Bernardino, and Imperial CNPS: List 4.3 vivipara var. alversonii) counties, to Arizona Alverson's foxtail cactus Horsfordia alata Shrub; Sonoran Desert shrublands, rocky Feb–Dec Fed: None Low (field Pink velvet-mallow canyons or sandy washes, below about Calif: S3.3 surveys) 1700 ft. elev.; Riverside and Imperial CNPS: List 4.3 counties, Arizona, Baja, and Sonora (Mex.) Horsfordia newberryi Shrub; rocky places, Sonoran Desert Feb–Dec Fed: None Low (field Newberry velvet-mallow shrublands below about 2600 ft. elev.; Calif: S3.3 surveys) Riverside, San Diego, Imperial Cos., CNPS: List 4.3 Arizona, Baja, and Sonora (Mex.) Linanthus floribundus ssp. hallii Perennial herb; shrublands, desert-facing May–July Fed: None Minimal (Leptosiphon f. ssp. hallii) canyons of the Santa Rosa Mtns, about Calif: S 1.3 (outside 3300-6600 ft. elev. CNPS: List geographic & Santa Rosa Mountains 1B.3 elev. ranges) linanthus Lycium parishii Shrub; arid slopes and sand flats, about March–April Fed: None Low (field Parish's desert thorn 1000 - 3300 ft. elev.; W low desert (Riv. and Calif: S2S3 surveys) San Diego counties); report from Riverside CNPS: List 2.3 is erroneous; report from San Bernardino area now extirpated; disjunct to AZ and Sonora (Mexico) Mentzelia tridentata Annual; talus slopes and mesas; about March–April Fed: None Minimal (field Creamy blazing star 2300 - 3300 ft. elev., primarily central Calif: S2.3 survey, below Mojave desert but also north to Inyo Co. CNPS: List elev. range) and a few doubtful reports from the low 1B.3 desert Nemacaulis denudata var. gracilis Annual; desert dunes, sandy desert March–May Fed: None Minimal (field Slender woolly-heads shrubland below about 1300 ft. elev.; Calif: S2S3 survey, habitat Coachella Valley area; Ariz., Baja, and CNPS: List 2.2 poor at best) mainland Mexico

A-2 ATTACHMENT A (Continued) SPECIAL STATUS PLANT SPECIES KNOWN TO OCCUR IN THE PROJECT VICINITY

Flower Status Occurrence Special Status Plants Habitat and Distribution season Designation Probability Phaseolus filiformis Annual or perennial herb; low desert Year-round Fed: None Minimal (field (= P. wrightii) shrubland, wide elev. range in Sonora and (with Calif: S1.3 surveys, Slender-stem bean Texas; only known Calif. location. in Santa enough CNPS: List 2.3 probably Rosa Mtn foothills, about 400 ft. elev.; rainfall) outside occurs to the south through Baja Calif., E to geographic Texas and mainland Mexico range) Saltugilia latimeri (segr. from Gilia Annual; chaparral and desert shrublands, March– Fed: None Minimal (field [Saltugilia] australis) arid mountains and foothills; about 1300- June Calif: S 2.2 surveys, well Latimer’s woodland gilia 6200 ft. elev.; desert margins, Riv. Co to CNPS: List below elev. Inyo Co 1B.2 range) Salvia greatae Shrub; desert shrubland, washes and March–April Fed: None Minimal (field Orocopia sage alluvial fans, about 100-2800 ft. elev.; Calif: S2.2 surveys, Riverside & Imperial counties, endemic to CNPS: List probably Orocopia Mtns and Chocolate Mtns 1B.3 outside range) Selaginella eremophila Perennial herb; rocks and crevices, about n/a Fed: None Low (field Desert spike-moss 600 - 3000 ft. elev.; lower desert-facing Calif: S 2.2? surveys, slopes of San Jacintos and adjacent desert, CNPS: List 2.2 probably below to Texas and Baja elev. range) Senna covesii Low, mostly herbaceous perennial; desert April–June Fed: None Low (field (Cassia covesii) washes below about 2000 ft. elev.; Calif: S2.2 surveys) Coves’s cassia Colorado Des to Nevada, Arizona and Baja CNPS: List 2.2 Calif. Xylorhiza cognata Herbaceous perennial; desert shrublands, Jan–June Fed: None Observed Mecca-aster arid canyons below about 800 ft. elev.; Calif: S2.2 locally endemic around Indio Hills and CNPS: List Mecca Hills, Riv. Co. 1B.2 Status Designations Federal designations: (federal Endangered Species Act, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service). Until 1996, USFWS maintained a list of “category 2 candidates,” described as species of concern (SOC), but for which insufficient data were available to support listing. This list is no longer maintained and USFWS has no “SOC” category, though some agencies continue to cite it. END: Federally listed, endangered. THR: Federally listed, threatened. Candidate: Sufficient data are available to support federal listing, but not yet listed. Proposed: Formally proposed for federal status shown.

State designations: (California Endangered Species Act, California Dept. of Fish and Game) END: State listed, endangered. THR: State listed, threatened. RARE: State listed as rare (applied to plants only). CSC: California species of special concern. Considered vulnerable to extinction due to declining numbers, limited geographic ranges, or ongoing threats. FP: Fully protected. May not be taken or possessed without permit from CDFG.

CDFG Natural Diversity Data Base Designations: Applied to special status plants and sensitive plant communities; where correct category is uncertain, CDFG uses two categories or question marks. S1: Fewer than 6 occurrences or fewer than 1000 individuals or less than 2000 acres. S1.1: Very threatened S1.2: Threatened S1.3: No current threats known S2: 6–20 occurrences or 1000–3000 individuals or 2000–10,000 acres (decimal suffixes same as above). S3: 21–100 occurrences or 3000–10,000 individuals or 10,000–50,000 acres (decimal suffixes same as above). S4: Apparently secure in California; this rank is clearly lower than S3 but factors exist to cause some concern, i.e., there is some threat or somewhat narrow habitat. No threat rank. S5: Demonstrably secure or ineradicable in California. No threat rank. SH: All California occurrences “historical” (i.e., no records in > 20 years).

California Native Plant Society (CNPS) designations. Note: According to CNPS (2001), plants on Lists 1A, 1B, and 2 meet definitions as threatened or endangered and “are eligible” for state listing. List 1A: Plants presumed extinct in California. List 1B: Plants rare and endangered in California and throughout their range. List 2: Plants rare, threatened or endangered in California but more common elsewhere in their range. List 3: Plants about which we need more information; a review list. List 4: Plants of limited distribution; a watch list.

A-3 ATTACHMENT A (Continued) SPECIAL STATUS PLANT SPECIES KNOWN TO OCCUR IN THE PROJECT VICINITY

CNPS Threat Rank: .1 Seriously endangered in California (over 80% of occurrences threatened / high degree and immediacy of threat) .2 Fairly endangered in California (20–80% occurrences threatened) .3 Not very endangered in California (<20% of occurrences threatened or no current threats known)

Definitions of occurrence probability: Occurs: Observed on the site by qualified biologists. High: Habitat is a type often utilized by the species and the site is within the known range of the species. Moderate: Site is within the known range of the species and habitat on the site is a type occasionally used. Low: Site is within the species’ known range but habitat is rarely used, or the species was not found during focused surveys covering less than 100% of potential habitat or completed in marginal seasons. Minimal: No suitable habitat on the site; or well outside the species’ known elevational or geographic ranges; or a focused study covering 100% of all suitable habitat, completed during the appropriate season and during a year of appropriate rainfall, did not detect the species. Unknown: No focused surveys have been performed in the region, and the species’ distribution and habitat are poorly known.

General references: Baldwin et al. 2002; CDFG 2006a, 2006b; CNPS 2006, 2001; Hickman 1993; Kearney & Peebles 1960; McDougall 1973; Munz 1974; Shreve and Wiggins 1964; Turner et al. 1995; US Fish and Wildlife Service 2004.

A-4

ATTACHMENT B

PLANT SPECIES OBSERVED

ATTACHMENT B PLANT SPECIES OBSERVED IN THE I-10/MCNAUGHTON SURVEY AREA SPRING 2006

Latin Name Common Name Abundance Voucher AMARANTHACEAE AMARANTH FAMILY Tidestromia oblongifolia Honeysweet Occas. / washes, margins (T. suffriticosa var. oblongifolia) ASCLEPIADACEAE MILKWEED FAMILY Asclepias subulata Rush milkweed Uncomm. / wash 11245 Sarcostemma hirtellum Rambling milkvine Uncomm., local in wash 11276 ASTERACEAE ASTER FAMILY Ambrosia dumosa White bursage Comm. / bajada, hills Athriochoseris platyphylla Tobacco plant Uncomm. / hills 11254 Baccharis sergiloides (?) Waterweed Uncomm. / wider washes Bebbia juncea Sweetbush Comm. / wash Chaenactis carphoclina Pincushion Abund. / throughout Chaenactis fremontii Fremont pincushion Comm. / washes N of fwy 11275 Conyza canadensis (?) Mare's tail Uncomm./ roadside drainage Dicoria canescens Desert dicoria Occas-comm. / washes Encelia farinosa Brittlebush Occas.-comm. / slopes Gerea canescens Desert sunflower Comm. / throughout Hymenochlea salsola Cheesebush Comm. / throughout Isocoma arcadenia var. eremophila Desert isocoma Scarce / wash margin 11277 (Haplopappus arcadenius var. eremophilus) Malacothrix glabrata Desert dandelion Occas. / mostly washes Monoptilon bellioides Desert star Occas.-comm. / bajada 11270 Palafoxia arida Spanish needles Occas. / sandy washes Perityle emoryi Emory rock-daisy Uncomm. / hills Peucephyllum schottii Pygmy cedar Scarce / wash Psathrotes ramosissima Velvet rosettes Scarce / alluv. fan 11269 Rafinesquia neomexicana Desert chicory Scarce / alluv. fan 11274 * Sonchus oleraceus Annual sow-thistle Scarce / wash Stephanomeria pauciflora Desert straw Uncomm. / alluv. fan Trichoptilium incisum Desert yellow-head Occas. / hills 11243 ** Xylorhiza cognata Mecca aster Scarce / lower slope 11250 (Machaeranthera cognata)

B-1 ATTACHMENT B (Continued) PLANT SPECIES OBSERVED IN THE I-10/MCNAUGHTON SURVEY AREA SPRING 2006

Latin Name Common Name Abundance Voucher BORAGINACEAE BORAGE FAMILY Cryptantha angustifolia Narrowleaf cryptantha Comm. / throughout Cryptantha barbigera Bearded cryptantha Occas. / mostly hills Cryptantha maritima White hair cryptantha Occas. / mostly hills Tiquilia palmeri (Coldenia palmeri) Palmer tiquilia Occas. /hills, wash margins Tiquilia plicata (Coldenia plicata) Plicate tiquilia Uncomm. / sandy washes BRASSICACEAE MUSTARD FAMILY * Brassica tournefortii Wild turnip Occas. / wash Lepidium lasiocarpum Sand peppergrass Comm. / esp. hills 11265 * Sisymbrium irio London rocket Uncomm. / wash CACTACEAE CACTUS FAMILY Echinocactus polycephalus Cottontop cactus Scarce / hillsides Ferocactus cylindraceus California barrel cactus Occas./ hills Opuntia basilaris v. basilaris Beavertail cactus Uncomm. / throughout Opuntia echinocarpa Silver cholla Occas. / throughout Opuntia ramosissima Pencil cholla Occas. / throughout CAPPARACEAE CAPER FAMILY Isomeris arborea Bladderpod Scarce / wash CARYOPHYLLACEAE CARNATION FAMILY Achyronychia cooperi Onyx flower Occas.-comm. / wash, bajada CHENOPODIACEAE GOOSEFOOT FAMILY Atriplex canescens Four-winged saltbush Occas. / wash margins 11247 Atriplex hymenelytra Desert holly Occas. / wide washes 8449 Atriplex polycarpa Allscale Comm. / sandy washes * Chenopodium murale (?) Nettleleaf goosefoot Uncomm. / wash * Salsola tragus Russian thistle Uncomm. / wash CUCURBITACEAE GOURD FAMILY Brandegea bigelovii Brandegea Occas. / wash

B-2 ATTACHMENT B (Continued) PLANT SPECIES OBSERVED IN THE I-10/MCNAUGHTON SURVEY AREA SPRING 2006

Latin Name Common Name Abundance Voucher EUPHORBIACEAE SPURGE FAMILY Chamaesyce polycarpa s. hirtella Sand mat Occas.-comm. / throughout Croton californicus California croton Uncomm. / wash margins Ditaxis neomexicana Common ditaxis Scarce / rocky hills 8447, 11255 FABACEAE PEA FAMILY Acacia greggii Catclaw acacia Scarce / wash margin Caesalpinia virgata Small-leaved caesalpinia, little- Comm. / esp. steep eroding slopes (Hoffmannseggia microphylla) leaved rushpea, wand holdback Cercidium floridum Blue palo verde Occas. / wide washes 11271 Dalea mollissima Rust dalea Scarce / hillsides 11244 Lotus strigosus var. tomentellus Desert lotus Scarce / alluv. fan 11272 (Lotus tomentellus) Lupinus microcarpus Chick lupine Comm. / throughout var. horizontalis Psorothamnus emoryi Emory indigo-bush Uncomm. / freeway margins Psorothamnus schottii Indigo-bush Comm.-abund. / bajada, washes Psorothamnus spinosus Smoke tree Occas. / larger washes FOUQUIERIACEAE OCOTILLO FAMILY Fouquieria splendens Ocotillo Uncomm. / bajada HYDROPHYLLACEAE WATERLEAF FAMILY Nama demissum Purple mat Occas.-comm. / wash 11263 Phacelia crenulata Heliotrope phacelia Comm. / throughout Phacelia distans Common heliotrope Uncomm. / mostly hills LAMIACEAE MINT FAMILY Hyptis emoryi Desert lavender Occas-comm. / wash Salvia columbariae Chia Occas. / throughout LOASACEAE STICK-LEAF FAMILY Mentzelia involucrata Sand blazing star Occas. / wash 11258 MALVACEAE MALLOW FAMILY Eremalche rotundifolia Desert fivespot Occas. / wash, bajada

B-3 ATTACHMENT B (Continued) PLANT SPECIES OBSERVED IN THE I-10/MCNAUGHTON SURVEY AREA SPRING 2006

Latin Name Common Name Abundance Voucher Hibiscus denudatus Pale face Occas. / hills 11252 NYCTAGINACEAE FOUR O'CLOCK FAMILY Abronia villosa var. villosa Sand verbena Occas. / wide sandy wash 11268 Alliona incarnata Trailing windmills Occas. / wash, etc 11248, 11264 Mirabilis bigelovii Desert wishbone bush Occas. / mostly hills 11249 ONAGRACEAE EVENING PRIMROSE FAMILY Camissonia boothii ssp. Desert lantern Occas. / bajada, wash condensata Camissonia boothii ssp. decortians Shredding primrose Occas. / bajada Camissonia cardiophylla Heart-leaved camissonia Occas. / mostly wash 11261 Camissonia claviformis Pierson's evening primrose Comm. / throughout PAPAVERACEAE POPPY FAMILY Eschscholzia minutiflora Small-flowered poppy Occas. / wash margins 11257 Eschscholzia parishii (?) Parish's gold poppy Occas. / wash margins PLANTAGINACEAE PLANTAIN FAMILY Plantago ovata Desert plantain Occas.-comm. / bajada, hills POLEMONIACEAE PHLOX FAMILY Gilia latifolia Broad-leaved gilia Occas. / bajada, wash 8448, 11259 Eriastrum eremicum Desert woolly-star Occas. / washes 11273 Loeseliastrum schottii Schott's langloisia Uncomm. (patchy) / bajada (Langloisia schottii) POLYGONACEAE BUCKWHEAT FAMILY Chorizanthe brevicornu Brittle spine-flower Occas. / wash, bajada Chorizanthe corrugata Wrinkled spineflower Uncomm. / bajada Chorizanthe rigida Rigid spine-flower Occas. (patchy) / bajada Eriogonum deflexum Skeleton weed Occas. / mostly roadside Eriogonum inflatum Desert trumpet Occas. / throughout Eriogonum thomasii Thomas buckwheat Comm. / throughout 11260 Eriogonum trichopes (?) Little trumpet Uncomm. / wash RESEDACEAE MIGNONETTE FAMILY

B-4 ATTACHMENT B (Continued) PLANT SPECIES OBSERVED IN THE I-10/MCNAUGHTON SURVEY AREA SPRING 2006

Latin Name Common Name Abundance Voucher Oligomeris linifolia Narrowleaf oligomeris Uncomm. / wash 11256 SCROPHULARIACEAE SNAPDRAGON FAMILY Mimulus bigelovii Bigelow monkeyflower Scarce / wash 11266 Mohavea confertiflora Ghost flower Uncomm.-occas / alluv. fan 11267 SOLANACEAE NIGHTSHADE FAMILY Datura discolor Jimsonweed, desert thorn-apple Occas. / wash margins 11262 Datura wrightii Jimsonweed, tolguacha Uncomm. / wash Nicotiana obtusifolia Desert tobacco Uncomm. / wash margin Physalis crassifolia Thick-leaf ground cherry Uncomm. / wash 11253 TAMARICACEAE TAMARISK FAMILY * Tamarix aphylla Athel Occas. / near canal & levee * Tamarix ramosissima Tamarisk Uncomm. / wash ZYGOPHYLLACEAE CALTROP FAMILY Fagonia laevis Smooth-stem fagonia Comm. / throughout Larrea tridentata Creosote bush Comm. / throughout POACEAE GRASS FAMILY Aristida adscensionis Six-weeks three-awn grass Occas. / throughout Aristida purpurea Three-awn grass Occas. / wash margins 11251 * Avena fatua Wild oat Scarce / roadside drainage * Avena sativa Crop oat Scarce / roadside drainage Bouteloua aristidoides Needle grama Scarce / sandy wash Bouteloua barbata Six-weeks grama Scarce / sandy wash * Cynodon dactylon Bermuda grass Scarce / roadside drainage Erioneuron pulchellum Low fluffgrass Scarce / hillsides * Hordeum murinum Hare barley Scarce / roadside drainage * Phalaris paradoxa Paradox canary grass Scarce / roadside drainage 11246 * Schismus barbatus Mediterranean schismus Comm. / throughout Non-native species are indicated by an asterisk (*). Special status species indicated by two asterisks (**). This list includes only species observed in the survey area. Other species may have been overlooked or unidentifiable due to season. Plants were identified using keys, descriptions, and illustrations in Abrams (1923–1951, 1960), Hickman (1993), and Munz (1974). Taxonomy and nomenclature generally follow Hickman. Some species were collected and donated as vouchers to Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden; these are indicated by Scott White's collection number, at right.

B-5

ATTACHMENT C

CNDDB FORM

Appendix D Results of Flat-tailed Horned Lizard Survey

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 131 Appendix D Results of Flat-tailed Horned Lizard Survey

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 132

November 1, 2006

Mr. Bruce Grove RBF Consulting 14725 Alton Parkway Irvine, CA 92618

Subject: Results of Focused Flat Tailed Horned Lizard Surveys on the Interstate-10 and McNaughton Parkway Interchange Project Site, Coachella Valley, Riverside County, California

Dear Mr. Grove:

This Letter Report presents the results of focused surveys for the flat-tailed horned lizard (Phrynosoma mcalli) conducted on the Interstate-10 (I-10) and McNaughton Parkway Interchange project site, Coachella Valley, Riverside County, California. The purpose of the surveys was to determine the presence or absence of the flat-tailed horned lizard in the survey area.

Project Location and Description

The I-10/McNaughton Parkway Interchange project site is located in the Coachella Valley, Riverside County (Exhibit 1). The project site is located east of the City of Indio and northeast of the City of Coachella on the I-10 between the existing Dillon Road Interchange and the I-10/Cactus City Safety Roadside Rest Areas (Exhibit 2). The survey area includes the current proposed disturbance limits and a 500-foot buffer area. Elevations in the survey area range from approximately 165 to 495 feet above mean sea level (msl). The survey area is located on the U.S. Geological Survey 7.5-Minute Indio and Thermal Canyon quadrangle maps, and is within the area covered by the Draft Coachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan.

1 an alluvial plain formed at the base of a mountain by the coalescing of several alluvial fans (www.dictionary.com). Mr. Bruce Grove November 1, 2006 Page 2 creosote bush scrub, cheesebush-sweetbush scrub, white bursage-indigo bush scrub, creosote bush-indigo bush scrub, wand holdback, disturbed/unvegetated, and developed (Exhibit 3).

Background

The flat-tailed horned lizard (FTHL) is a California Species of Special Concern. The FTHL occupies areas of fine windblown sand and extremely barren country within creosote bush scrub where vegetation is sparse or lacking (USFWS 1997). Preferred habitat for the FTHL typically contains creosote bush and burrobush (Muth and Fisher 1992). The presence of native harvester ants is a habitat requirement for the FTHL as they constitute the majority of its diet. The FTHL is active from mid-February and mid-November and up to two clutches of three to seven eggs may be laid from July to September (Sherbrooke 2003). The FTHL shares portions of its range with the southern desert horned lizard (P. platyrhinos calidiarum) but is distinguished by its dark vertebral stripe, lack of external ear openings, long, broad and flattened tail, and comparatively long head spines (Stebbins 2003).

The USFWS previously published a rule proposing Threatened status for the flat-tailed horned lizard in 1993, but withdrew the proposed rule to list in 1997 based on information available at that time. On December 26, 2001, under court order, the USFWS reinstated the proposed listing of this species as Threatened and reopened the public comment period. The USFWS withdrew the proposed listing in January 2003; however, the proposal for listing was reinstated on December 7, 2005. The most recent proposed rule to list the FTHL was withdrawn in June 2006.

Survey Methodology

Focused surveys followed the Project Evaluation protocol for FTHL as stated in Appendix 6 of the Flat-tailed Horned Lizard Rangewide Management Strategy (FTHLICC 2003). The FTHL survey protocol requires that surveys be conducted from April through September when air temperatures are between 75 and 100°F. Surveys were conducted along evenly spaced, linear, parallel transects in a manner that allowed complete coverage of all suitable FTHL habitat. Surveys were conducted with approximately 30-foot spacing between transects. The FTHL protocol requires a minimum of four surveys to cover the survey area.

The FTHL survey protocol requires a separate road survey for lizards that involves driving on roads in the survey area and adjacent roads at a speed of no more than ten miles per hour and recording any horned lizards observed. Road surveys should be conducted from April through September primarily in the morning when air temperatures range between 75 and 100 °F (FTHLICC 2003).

BonTerra Consulting Biologist Sam Stewart and Senior Scientist Dr. Mike Robson conducted surveys according to methods consistent with the FTHL guidelines on May 23, 24, 31; June 13, 20; July 31; and August 30, 2006. Temperatures and wind speeds were measured hourly using a Skymate SM-18 digital thermometer and wind meter and were recorded in field notes. Survey data is presented in Table 1.

Mr. Bruce Grove November 1, 2006 Page 3

TABLE 1 FLAT TAILED HORNED LIZARD SURVEY DATA

Start Time(hrs)/ End Time(hrs)/ Avg Wind Date Temperature (°F) Temperature(°F) Miles per Hour (mph) Weather May 23, 2006 0700/65°F 1100/94°F 1.5 mph Clear May 24, 2006 0600/65°F 1115/94°F 2.5 mph Clear May 31, 2006 0615/74°F 1200/98°F 1.0 mph Clear June 13, 2006 0630/75°F 1130/96°F 3.0 mph Clear June 20, 2006 0600/75°F 1100/92°F 2.5 mph Clear July 31, 2006 0630/76°F 1100/102°F 1.0 mph Clear August 30, 2006 0600/81°F 1600/112°F 2.0 mph Clear

Survey Results

No FTHL were observed during the survey effort. However, horned lizard scat, and tracks were observed among creosote bush scrub habitat adjacent to the large wash and within the smaller side washes along the northwestern boundary of the survey area. Additionally, just beyond the boundary of the survey area an individual southern desert horned lizard (Phrynosoma platyrhinos calidiarum) was observed. No other evidence of horned lizards was observed within the study area.

Consistent with the Project Evaluation protocol of the FTHL Rangewide Management Strategy (2003), FTHL is considered absent if: (1) horned lizard scat is found, no FTHLs are found, but desert horned lizards occur within two miles of the survey area; (2) no FTHL locality record(s) exist within two miles of the survey area; or (3) FTHL locality record(s) exist within two miles, but the habitat is not continuous or suitable between the locality and survey area. Survey results identified horned lizard scat in the survey area, and desert horned lizard was also observed. Although this meets the first criteria to be considered absent from the survey area, there are FTHL records within two miles and continuous habitat south of the survey area is considered suitable. According to this methodology, the FTHL should be assumed potentially present even though they were not observed during focused surveys.

A compendium of wildlife observed during the surveys is provided in Attachment A.

If you have any questions or comments, please contact Amber Oneal at (714) 444-9199.

Sincerely,

BONTERRA CONSULTING

Amber S. Oneal Project Manager/Ecologist

Attachments: Exhibits 1, 2, and 3 Attachment A – Wildlife Compendium Mr. Bruce Grove November 1, 2006 Page 4

References

BonTerra Consulting 2005 (May). Revised Draft Natural Environmental Study Interstate- 10/McNaughton Parkway Interchange. Costa Mesa, California: BonTerra Consulting.

California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG). 2005. Special Animals. California Natural Diversity (RareFind) Database. Sacramento: CDFG, Natural Heritage Division.

Flat-tailed Horned Lizard Interagency Coordinating Committee (FTHLICC). 2003 (as revised). Flat-tailed horned lizard rangewide management strategy (L.D. Foreman, ed.). Washington, D.C.: USFWS.

Muth, A. and M. Fisher. 1992. Development of baseline data and procedures for monitoring populations of the flat-tailed horned lizard, Phrynosoma mcallii (Contract Report No. FG9268) Sacramento, California: CDFG.

Sherbrooke, Wade C. 2003. Introduction to Horned Lizards of North America. California Natural History Guides No. 64. Berkeley and Los Angeles, California: University of California Press.

Stebbins, R. C. 2003. A Field Guide to Western Reptiles and Amphibians. (3nd ed.). Boston, MA: Houghton-Mifflin Company.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 1993 (November 29). Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Proposed Rule to List the Flat-tailed Horned Lizard as Threatened. Federal Register 58(227): 62624-62629.

———. 1997 (July 15). Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Withdrawal of the Proposed Rule to List the Flat-tailed Horned Lizard as Threatened. Federal Register 62(135): 37852-37860.

———. 2001 (December 26). Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Notice of Reinstatement of the 1993 Proposed Listing of the Flat-tailed Horned Lizard as a Threatened Species and the Reopening of the Comment Period on the Proposed Rule. Federal Register 66(247): 66384-66385.

———. 2003 (January 3). Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Withdrawal of the Proposed Rule to List the Flat-tailed Horned Lizard as Threatened. Federal Register 68(2): 331-348.

———. 2005 (December 7). Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Notice of Reinstatement of the 1993 Proposed Rule to List the Flat-tailed Horned Lizard as a Threatened Species. Federal Register 70(234): 72776.

———. 2006 (June 28). Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Withdrawal of the Proposed Rule to List the Flat-tailed Horned Lizard as Threatened. Federal Register 71(124): 36745-36752. Kern ST58 ut95

Needles

e l

e ¨§40 g

n ut395

s Apple

ST86 ¨§5 ¨§15 ST78 D:\Projects\RBF\J216\regional.mxd Regional Location Exhibit 1 I-10/McNaughton Parkway Interchange

2010 0 20 Miles ² R:\Projects\RBF\J216\Graphics\Ex1_RL_120505.pdf

Survey Area

Source: USGS Quad Indio and Thermal Canyon D:\Projects\RBF\J216\vicinity.mxd

Local Vicinity Exhibit 2 I-10/McNaughton Parkway Interchange

2,0001,000 0 2,000 ² Feet R:\Projects\RBF\J216\Graphics\Ex2_LV_062606.pdf

Vegetation Types Exhibit 3 I-10/McNaughton Parkway Interchange

600300 0 600

² Feet R:/Projects/RBF/216/Ex3_BR_062606.pdf

ATTACHMENT A

WILDLIFE COMPENDIUM

ATTACHMENT A WILDLIFE COMPENDIUM

Reptiles IGUANIDAE - IGUANID LIZARDS Dipsosaurus dorsalis desert iguana PHRYNOSOMATIDAE - ZEBRA-TAILED, FRINGE-TOED, SPINY, TREE, SIDE-BLOTCHED, AND HORNED LIZARDS Callisaurus draconoides zebra-tailed lizard Uta stansburiana side-blotched lizard Urosaurus graciosus long-tailed brush lizard Phrynosoma coronatum blainvillii coast horned lizard TEIIDAE - WHIPTAIL LIZARDS Aspidoscelis [Cnemidophorus] tigris tigris Great Basin whiptail VIPERIDAE - VIPERS Crotalus mitchelii speckled rattlesnake Birds ODONTOPHORIDAE - QUAILS Callipepla californica California quail Callipepla gambelii Gambel's quail ACCIPITRIDAE - HAWKS Buteo jamaicensis red-tailed hawk FALCONIDAE - FALCONS Falco sparverius American kestrel Falco mexicanus prairie falcon COLUMBIDAE - PIGEONS & DOVES Zenaida macroura mourning dove Zenaida asiatica white-winged dove CUCULIDAE - CUCKOOS & ROADRUNNERS Geococcyx californianus greater roadrunner STRIGIDAE - TRUE OWLS Bubo virginianus great horned owl Athene cunicularia burrowing owl APODIDAE - SWIFTS Aeronautes saxatalis white-throated swift

A-1 ATTACHMENT A (Continued) WILDLIFE COMPENDIUM

TROCHILIDAE - HUMMINGBIRDS Archilochus alexandri black-chinned hummingbird PICIDAE - WOODPECKERS Picoides scalaris ladder-backed woodpecker TYRANNIDAE - TYRANT FLYCATCHERS Sayornis saya Say's phoebe Myiarchus cinerascens ash-throated flycatcher LANIIDAE - SHRIKES Lanius ludovicianus loggerhead shrike CORVIDAE - JAYS & CROWS Corvus corax common raven HIRUNDINIDAE - SWALLOWS Stelgidopteryx serripennis northern rough-winged swallow Hirundo rustica barn swallow REMIZIDAE - VERDIN Auriparus flaviceps verdin TROGLODYTIDAE - WRENS Salpinctes obsoletus rock wren SYLVIIDAE - GNATCATCHERS Polioptila melanura black-tailed gnatcatcher MIMIDAE - THRASHERS Mimus polyglottos northern mockingbird PARULIDAE - WARBLERS Vermivora celata orange-crowned warbler Dendroica petechia yellow warbler Dendroica nigrescens black-throated gray warbler Oporornis tolmiei MacGillivray’s warbler THRAUPIDAE - TANAGERS Piranga ludoviciana western tanager EMBERIZIDAE - SPARROWS & JUNCOS Amphispiza bilineata black-throated sparrow Melospiza lincolnii Lincoln’s sparrow

A-2 ATTACHMENT A (Continued) WILDLIFE COMPENDIUM

FRINGILLIDAE - FINCHES Carpodacus mexicanus house finch Carduelis psaltria lesser goldfinch Mammals LEPORIDAE - HARES & RABBITS Sylvilagus audubonii desert cottontail Lepus californicus black-tailed jackrabbit SCIURIDAE - SQUIRRELS Ammospermophilus leucurus white-tailed antelope ground squirrel MURIDAE - MICE, RATS, AND VOLES Neotoma lepida desert woodrat CANIDAE - WOLVES & FOXES Canis latrans coyote * introduced species

A-3 Appendix E Results of Desert Tortoise Survey

Appendix E Results of Desert Tortoise Survey

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 133 Appendix E Results of Desert Tortoise Survey

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 134

November 1, 2006

Mr. Daniel Marquez U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 6010 Hidden Valley Road Carlsbad, CA 92008

Subject: Results of Focused Desert Tortoise Surveys on the Interstate-10 and McNaughton Parkway Interchange Project Site, Coachella Valley, Riverside County, California

Dear Mr. Marquez:

This Letter Report presents the results of focused surveys for the desert tortoise (Gopherus agassizii) on the Interstate-10 (I-10)/McNaughton Parkway Interchange project site (hereafter referred to as the project site) in the Coachella Valley northeast of the City of Coachella in Riverside County.

Project Location and Description

The I-10/McNaughton Parkway Interchange project site is located in the Coachella Valley, Riverside County (Exhibit 1). The project site is located east of the City of Indio and northeast of the City of Coachella on the I-10 between the existing Dillon Road Interchange and the I-10/Cactus City Safety Roadside Rest Areas (Exhibit 2). The survey area includes the current proposed disturbance limits and a 500-foot buffer. Elevations in the survey area range from approximately 165 to 495 feet above mean sea level (msl). The survey area is located on the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) 7.5-Minute Indio and Thermal Canyon quadrangle maps and is within the area covered by the Draft Coachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan.

1 an alluvial plain formed at the base of a mountain by the coalescing of several alluvial fans (www.dictionary.com). Mr. Daniel Marquez November 1, 2006 Page 2

BACKGROUND

The desert tortoise is a federally and state-listed Threatened species. It has two distinct populations, the Mojave and Sonoran, of which the Mojave population is divided into two subpopulations, the eastern and western Mojave. It has been suggested that these populations could be divided into species, subspecies, distinct population segments, and evolutionarily significant units or management units (Berry et al. 2002); however, these designations remain unresolved.

The proposed project is located within the range of the western Mojave subpopulation of the desert tortoise (USFWS 1994). The western Mojave subpopulation inhabits parts of the west Mojave, east Mojave, and Colorado deserts in California and extreme southern Nevada. Within the western Mojave range, tortoises occur in creosote bush, cactus (Opuntia spp.), and shadscale (Atriplex confertifolia) scrub habitats, and Joshua tree (Yucca brevifolia) woodland below 4,000 feet above msl (Berry 1990).

Desert tortoises have unique characteristics that enable them to survive in a desert environment. Elephantine limbs and well-developed claws enable tortoises to burrow into desert soils to escape the heat of the day. Burrows may be over nine feet long with the tortoise emerging in the morning or late afternoon to forage from March to October. By November, most tortoises have begun their hibernation period, which lasts until the following March; they only emerge during winter storms to replenish water stores. However, the desert tortoise may go for many years without drinking and ingest most of their water from plants and then store it in their bladders (Stebbins 2003).

Desert tortoises generally emerge from their burrows mid-March to feed on annual plants. During a roughly six-week period, fresh green grass and spring wildflowers are their primary nutritional source. Dry stems of grass and cactus pads provide sustenance in dryer times (Stebbins 2003). Introduced plant species have greatly encroached upon native plant species in the desert tortoise’s natural range and have, therefore, degraded the existing natural ecosystem. Desert tortoises have, however, adapted to eating filaree (Erodium spp.) and other non-native species (Brooks 1999).

Desert tortoises have delayed maturity (14–20 years) and long life spans. Their reproduction and generation cycle is 25 years, with individuals having a lifespan well over 50 years. However, desert tortoise reproductive potential is low as they lay relatively few eggs (3–14) in each clutch, and juveniles have a high mortality. During the juvenile stage, slow growth (one inch per year) and soft, flexible shells make them particularly vulnerable to predators.

The desert tortoise’s range in California has been reduced 50 to 60 percent since the 1920s and is now highly fragmented. Much of the tortoise’s habitat is degraded by a combination of human- related activities, including livestock grazing, energy and mineral development, and off-highway vehicle use. In addition, illegal shooting and collecting directly reduce the tortoise population. The desert tortoise continues to suffer from severe population losses due to disease and predation on juvenile tortoises, particularly by ravens (Boarman 1993). A disease affecting the desert tortoise called Upper Respiratory Tract Disease has appeared in tortoises that inhabit many parts of its range. The most severe outbreaks have occurred in California's west Mojave Desert, where long-term study plots have found population declines reaching 70 percent (Jacobson 1992). The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG), Biological Resources Division of the USGS, and Bureau of Land Management are coordinating research on this disease. Other tortoise diseases have shown up Mr. Daniel Marquez November 1, 2006 Page 3 in several parts of the southern California deserts, including cutaneous dyskeratosis, urolithiasis, and shell necrosis (Homer et al. 1998).

Studies indicate that raven predation has caused serious localized reductions in the number of young tortoises surviving to adulthood (Boarman 1993). USFWS bird surveys found a 1,500 percent increase in ravens in the Mojave Desert between 1968 and 1988. Another threat to desert tortoise populations includes the proposed 250 square mile expansion of Fort Irwin. Approximately 182 square miles of this proposed expansion are designated by the USFWS as desert tortoise critical habitat.

EXISTING HABITAT

The survey area is located on the USGS Indio and Thermal Canyon 7.5-minute quadrangle maps. Elevations in the survey area range from approximately 165 to 495 feet above msl. It was determined that the portion of the survey area south of the I-10 was potential desert tortoise habitat. The portion of the survey area north of I-10 was thought to be too steep for tortoise occupation, but it was also surveyed.

North of the I-10, much of the land within the survey area and the area extending to the 1,200-foot Zone of Influence (ZOI) is steep and rocky. The ground is hard, making burrow construction difficult, if not impossible. Areas located between the 1,200-foot and 2,400-foot ZOI hold greater potential for tortoise occupation than other areas within the survey area and the ZOI. The potential for tortoise to occur increases to the northeast with distance from the 2,400-foot ZOI. This area to the northeast represents the most likely tortoise habitat in the vicinity of the survey area. This portion of the survey area exhibits a richer variety of plant species that represent a transition between the western Mojave and the Eastern Colorado deserts. Lower levels of human disturbance were noted north of the I-10.

The area south of the I-10 is relatively flat with numerous washes braided throughout this portion of the survey area. Vegetation in this portion of the survey area is characterized by the Sonoran creosote bush vegetation type. A moderate level of human disturbance was noted in this portion of the survey area. Vehicle trails, dumping sites, and human footpaths criss-cross the area.

Gentle slopes and the rugged, primarily unvegetated badlands of the Mecca Hills are found to the east of the proposed survey area. Much of the eastern boundary of the survey area parallels the Bureau of Land Management’s 24,200-acre Mecca Hills Wilderness Area. The badlands topography is the product of heavy sheet and flash flood erosion on loose soils. Due to this heavy sheet wash, the area is braided with numerous washes. These washes are characterized by sandy to fine clay soils. Cracked soils suggest periods of significant inundation that dry out quickly and therefore create habitat with limited value to the desert tortoise.

Sonoran creosote bush vegetation characterizes the survey area and is dominated by Palo verde (Parkinsonia aculeata), creosote bush, burrobush, and indigo bush. Scattered stands of ocotillo (Fouquieria splendens) are found on the gentler slopes and mesas. Cacti species, including barrel cactus (Echinocactus acanthodes), beavertail cactus (Opuntia basilaris), and two species of cholla (Opuntia echinocarpa and O. ramosissima) are dispersed throughout the area, with barrel cactus most common on the rocky slopes. Annuals such as desert sunflower (Geraea canescens), pincushion flowers (Chaenactis sp.), lupine (Lupinus sp.), Mojave desert star (Monoptilon bellioides), desert purple mat (Nama demissum), and California poppy (Eschscholzia parishii) are moderately abundant and evenly distributed. Relatively few non- native species such as exotic grasses (Schismus sp.) or filaree (Erodium cicutarium) are found. Mr. Daniel Marquez November 1, 2006 Page 4

METHODS

BonTerra Consulting Senior Scientist Dr. Mike Robson and Biologist Sam Stewart conducted a presence-or-absence survey in the survey area in accordance with the survey protocol developed by the USFWS (1992). Transects, approximately 30 feet apart, were walked by surveyors within the Natural Environment Study (NES) study area boundary which is comprised of the project impact area plus a 500-foot buffer. Additionally, transects were walked by surveyors in the ZOI for the proposed project at 100-, 300-, 600-, 1,200-, and 2,400-foot perimeter intervals surrounding the NES study area.

All tortoise sign (e.g., live tortoises, shell, bones, scutes, limbs, scat, burrows, pallets, tracks, egg shell fragments, courtship rings, drinking sites, mineral licks) observed within the survey area and ZOI were mapped using Geographic Positioning System (GPS) units (i.e., Garmin Foretrex 201 WAAS-enabled GPS receiver), photographed, and documented in detailed field notes. No tortoises were handled and no tortoise sign was collected. Live tortoise size was estimated by the surveyor. Surveyors took precautions to avoid stressing live tortoises including keeping an appropriate distance and moving slowly in their presence to reduce the likelihood of a tortoise voiding its bladder.

The survey area included full coverage of the survey area south of the I-10. The areas north of the I-10 were surveyed if accessible on foot. This area was extremely steep with slopes at greater than 45 degrees; therefore, these areas were investigated on a reconnaissance level only. Transects were not completed in areas where the terrain prevented access on foot. However, surveyors traversed accessible slopes and fully covered all washes within this portion of the survey area. Information concerning vegetation types, evidence of other special status species, potential raptor nest sites, and wildlife movement corridors were noted when incidentally observed. A list of wildlife species observed during the survey is included in Attachment A.

Surveys were conducted between 6:00 AM and 4:30 PM. During the course of the survey, temperatures ranged from a low of approximately 65 degrees to a high of approximately 98 degrees Fahrenheit. Survey data is presented in Table 1.

TABLE 1 DESERT TORTOISE SURVEY DATA

Average Wind Date Start/End Time Start/End Temperature Speed Weather Conditions 5/19/2006 0645/1530 hours 70°/98° Fahrenheit 3.5 mile/hour Clear 5/23/2006 0700/1600 hours 65°/98° Fahrenheit 1.5 miles/hour Clear 5/24/2006 0600/1630 hours 65/95° Fahrenheit 2.5 miles/hour Clear 5/31/2006 0615/1430 hours 74°/98° Fahrenheit 1 mile/hour 50% cloud cover

Mr. Daniel Marquez November 1, 2006 Page 5

RESULTS

Two active burrows were identified outside the 2,400-foot ZOI (Exhibit 4). Both burrows exhibited fresh and historical tortoise scat indicating current, as well as long-term, use. Survey results are presented in Table 2. TABLE 2 SURVEY RESULTS

Survey UTM Sign ID Date Length (inches) Coordinates Description Burrow–1/ 5/23/2005 Burrow width ~ 10 11 S 583966 One large burrow entrance with >20 old scat Scat-1 Scat ~ 2.5 3728745 & >10 fresh scat Burrow–2/ 5/23/2005 Burrow width ~ 8 11 S 583963 One large burrow entrance with >10 old scat Scat-2 Scat ~ 2.25 3728744 & 3 fresh scat

If you have any questions or comments, please contact Amber Oneal at (714) 444-9199.

Sincerely,

BONTERRA CONSULTING

Amber S. Oneal Project Manager/Ecologist

cc: Bruce Grove, RBF Consulting

R:\Projects\RBF\J216\DT-110106.doc

Attachments: Exhibits 1, 2, 3, and 4 Attachment A – Wildlife Compendium

REFERENCES

Berry, K.H., D.J. Morafka, and R.W. Murphy. 2002. Defining the Desert Tortoise(s).: Our First Priority for a Coherent Conservation Strategy. Chelonian Conservation and Biology. 4(2): 248–262. Lunenburg, Massachusetts: Chelonian Research Foundation.

Berry, K.H. 1990. Commonly Asked Questions about the Desert Tortoise and Answers. Tortoise Tracks. 11(1): Riverside, California: Desert Tortoise Preserve Committee, Inc.

Boarman, W.I. 1993. When a Native Predator Becomes a Pest: A case study. Conservation and Resource Management (S.K. Majumdar, et al., eds), 186–201). Easton, Pennsylvania: Pennsylvania Academy Science.

Brooks, M.L. 1999. Alien Annual Grasses and Fire in the Mojave Desert. Madroño.46:(1): 13– 19. Berkeley, California: California Botanical Society. Mr. Daniel Marquez November 1, 2006 Page 6

Homer, B.L., K.H. Berry, M.B. Brown, G. Ellis, and E.R. Jacobson. 1998. Pathology of Diseases in Wild Desert Tortoise from California. Journal of Wildlife Diseases. 34(3): 508–523. Lawrence, Kansas: Wildlife Disease Association.

Jacobson, E. 1992. The Desert Tortoise and Upper Respiratory Disease. Unpublished Special Report for the Desert Tortoise Preserve Committee and U.S. Bureau of Land Management.

Morafka, D.J. 1994. Neonates: Missing Links in the Life Histories of North American Tortoises. Biology of North American Tortoises (R.B. Bury and D.J. Germano, eds). 13(15): 161– 170. Washington D.C.: US Department of the Interior, National Biological Survey, Fish and Wildlife Research Report 13.

Stebbins, R. C. 2003. A Field Guide to Western Reptiles and Amphibians. (3nd ed.). Boston, MA: Houghton-Mifflin Company.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 1994 (February 8). Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Determination of Critical Habitat for the Mojave Population of the Desert Tortoise. Federal Register 59(26): 5820–5866. Washington, D.C.: USFWS.

———. 1992 (January). Field Survey Protocol for any Federal and Non-Federal Action that May Occur Within the Range of the Desert Tortoise. Washington, D.C.: USFWS.

U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). 1993. Victorville, California 7.5-minute Quadrangle Map. Washington, D.C.: USGS.

Zeiner, D.C., W.F. Laudenslayer Jr., K.E. Mayer, M. White, eds. 1988. California’s Wildlife Vol. 1: Amphibians and Reptiles. CDFG. Sacramento. Kern ST58 ut95

Needles

e l

e ¨§40 g

n ut395

s Apple

ST86 ¨§5 ¨§15 ST78 D:\Projects\RBF\J216\regional.mxd Regional Location Exhibit 1 I-10/McNaughton Parkway Interchange

2010 0 20 Miles ² R:\Projects\RBF\J216\Graphics\Ex1_RL_120505.pdf

Survey Area

Source: USGS Quad Indio and Thermal Canyon D:\Projects\RBF\J216\vicinity.mxd

Local Vicinity Exhibit 2 I-10/McNaughton Parkway Interchange

2,0001,000 0 2,000 ² Feet R:\Projects\RBF\J216\Graphics\Ex2_LV_062606.pdf

Vegetation Types Exhibit 3 I-10/McNaughton Parkway Interchange

600300 0 600

² Feet R:/Projects/RBF/216/Ex3_BR_062606.pdf

¨¦§10

A ll Am er ic an C an al

Desert Tortoise Locations Project Impact Area

NES Survey Area Burrow 1

Zone of Influence (ZOI) Transects Burrow 2 100 Foot ZOI 300 Foot ZOI 600 Foot ZOI 1,200 Foot ZOI 2,400 Foot ZOI D:/projects/RBF/J216/aerial_tortoise_102706.mxd

Desert Tortoise Survey Area Exhibit 4 I-10/McNaughton Parkway Interchange

1,000500 0 1,000 ² Feet R:/projects/RBF/J216/graphics/ex4_toroise_102706.pdf

ATTACHMENT A

WILDLIFE COMPENDIUM

ATTACHMENT A WILDLIFE COMPENDIUM

A-1 ATTACHMENT A (Continued) WILDLIFE COMPENDIUM

A-2 ATTACHMENT A (Continued) WILDLIFE COMPENDIUM

A-3

Attachment A.

ATTACHMENT A

sEIHGwxughton rojet hesert2ortoise ign ixhiit2Q

hesert2ortoise ÊÚ urvey

viqixh sEIH2preewy one2of2snfluene2@ysA2rnsetsB PRHH9 IPHH9 THH9 QHH9 IHH9 B2vines2denote2the2enterline2of2the2trnsetF

ortoise2urveys tudy2ere2foundry urvey2rnsets

ortoise2ign furrow2nd hell2prgments ÚÊ

IHH92ys QHH92ys

THH92ys QHH H QHH THH IPHH92ys weters IHHH H IHHH PHHH QHHH

ell2emerin2gnl PRHH92ys peet x

his2mp2is2only2representtive2nd2is 2not2intended2for2siteEspeifi2purposesF

rodued2yX veslie2fkus

smgery2tken2tune2PID2IWWTF XGrojetsGfpGtPITGrfjHVIleslieHVPUHIFpdf hGrojetsGfpGtHVIGrfjHVIleslieHVPUHIFpr

Appendix F Results of Burrowing Owl Survey

Appendix F Burrowing Owl Survey

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 135 Appendix F Results of Burrowing Owl Survey

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 136

November 1, 2006

Mr. Bruce Grove RBF Consulting 14725 Alton Parkway Irvine, CA 92618

Subject: Results of a Focused Burrowing Owl Survey on the Interstate-10 and McNaughton Parkway Interchange Project Site, Coachella Valley, Riverside County, California

Dear Mr. Grove:

This Letter Report presents the findings of surveys to determine the potential for the burrowing owl (Athene cunicularia hypugea) on the Interstate-10 (I-10) and McNaughton Parkway Interchange project site, Coachella Valley, Riverside County, California. Although the burrowing owl is not currently listed as threatened or endangered by either the California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG) or the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), its status has been of increasing concern to the CDFG, the USFWS, and private organizations such as the California Burrowing Owl Consortium.

Project Location and Description

The I-10/McNaughton Parkway Interchange project site is located in the Coachella Valley, Riverside County (Exhibit 1). The project site is located east of the City of Indio and northeast of the City of Coachella on the I-10 between the existing Dillon Road Interchange and the I-10/Cactus City Safety Roadside Rest Areas (Exhibit 2). The survey area includes the current proposed disturbance limits and a 500-foot buffer area. Elevations in the survey area range from approximately 165 to 495 feet above mean sea level (msl). The survey area is located on the U.S. Geological Survey 7.5-Minute Indio and Thermal Canyon quadrangle maps, and is within the area covered by the Draft Coachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan.

1 an alluvial plain formed at the base of a mountain by the coalescing of several alluvial fans (www.dictionary.com). Mr. Bruce Grove November 1, 2006 Page 2 scrub, creosote bush-indigo bush scrub, wand holdback, disturbed/unvegetated, and developed (Exhibit 3).

Background

The western burrowing owl is a grassland specialist distributed throughout western North America where it occupies open areas with short vegetation and bare ground within shrub, desert, and grassland environments. Burrowing owls use a wide variety of arid and semi-arid environments, with well-drained, level to gently-sloping areas characterized by sparse vegetation and bare ground (Haug and Didiuk 1993; Dechant et al. 2003). Burrowing owls in Florida excavate their own burrows, but western burrowing owls are dependant upon the presence of burrowing mammals (such as ground squirrels [Spermophilus beecheyi]) whose burrows are used for roosting and nesting (Haug and Didiuk 1993). The presence or absence of colonial mammal burrows is often a major factor that limits the presence or absence of burrowing owls. Where mammal burrows are scarce, burrowing owls have been found occupying man-made cavities, such as buried and non-functioning drain pipes, stand-pipes, and dry culverts. Burrowing mammals may burrow beneath rocks, debris or large, heavy objects such as abandoned cars, concrete blocks, or concrete pads. Large, hard objects at burrow entrances stabilize the entrance from collapse and may inhibit excavation by predators.

Burrowing owls often use “satellite, ” or non-nesting burrows, moving chicks into them from the nesting burrow, presumably to reduce the risk of predation (Desmond and Savidge 1998) and possibly to avoid nest parasites (Dechant et al. 2003). One pair may use up to ten satellite burrows (James and Seabloom 1968). Individual burrowing owls have a moderate-to-high site fidelity to previously used burrow complexes and often use the same burrows for nesting year after year.

The western burrowing owl was once abundant and widely distributed within coastal southern California, but it has declined precipitously in counties such as Los Angeles, Orange, San Diego, Riverside, and San Bernardino. A petition was filed to list the California population of the western burrowing owl as an Endangered or Threatened species (Center for Biological Diversity 2003); however, the CDFG declined to list the burrowing owl as either Threatened or Endangered. The CDFG currently lists the western burrowing owl as a California Species of Special Concern.

Survey Methodology

Although the project site is in eastern Riverside County, surveys for the project followed the Burrowing Owl Survey Instructions for the Western Riverside Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (MSHCP) (County of Riverside 2006). The Western Riverside MSHCP survey instructions are the most current protocol described for the species. The guidelines outline a survey methodology that has been officially approved by the CDFG and USFWS.

The first step, habitat assessment, identifies whether the project site provides potential habitat for the species. This determination is made by a Biologist that is knowledgeable in burrowing owl habitat, ecology, and identification. The Biologist conducts the assessment by walking the survey area (which should include land within an approximately 500-foot buffer area, if it is accessible) to visually inspect the project site and assess its potential for burrowing owls.

The second step, burrow survey, identifies suitable burrow(s) and the location(s) of occupied burrow(s). The burrow survey is accomplished by a Biologist (with the qualifications identified in the first step) while walking through suitable habitat within the survey area via transects no more Mr. Bruce Grove November 1, 2006 Page 3 than approximately 100 feet apart in order to ensure 100 percent visual coverage of the ground surface. If no potentially active burrows are detected, then no focused owl surveys are required.

If potentially active burrows are detected, the burrows must be recorded and mapped, including geographic positioning system coordinates. Four surveys that focus on owls must be conducted on four separate days during the owl’s breeding season (March 1 to August 31). These surveys are conducted in the same manner as the burrow survey to ensure 100 percent visual coverage of the ground surface. The first survey may be conducted concurrently with the burrow survey. Focused owl surveys should be conducted in the morning one hour before sunrise to two hours after sunrise or in the early evening two hours before sunset to one hour after sunset. The location of any owls observed (including numbers of pairs and juveniles) and any behavior (such as courtship and mating) should be recorded.

During the 2005 general wildlife survey conducted by BonTerra Consulting (BonTerra Consulting 2005), an active burrow was located; therefore, a separate Habitat Assessment was not necessary. The 2006 focused burrow and owl surveys were conducted by BonTerra Consulting Biologist Sam Stewart and Senior Scientist Dr. Michael Robson. Although the first few survey dates focused on detection of burrows, burrowing owls were also noted on those dates. Focused burrow surveys identified several burrows present on and adjacent to the survey area. Burrow surveys were conducted on April 17 and April 18, 2006. Focused owl surveys were conducted on April 17 and 18; May 19, 23, 24, and 31; June 13 and 20; and August 30, 2006. Focused burrowing owl surveys were conducted in the vicinity of the burrows and in all surrounding suitable habitat. In addition, burrows and burrowing owls incidentally observed outside the burrowing owl survey area during other special status surveys (i.e., desert tortoise surveys) were also recorded.

Survey Results

A total of four active burrowing owl locations and one potentially active burrowing owl location were observed within the burrowing owl survey area for the proposed project (Exhibit 4). Four additional burrowing owl locations were incidentally observed during desert tortoise surveys, which require transects beyond the burrowing owl survey area. Each of the observations is described in more detail below. A list of wildlife species observed during the surveys is provided in Attachment A.

Location 1: A pair of burrowing owls was observed at this location on April 17 and 18, 2006. The burrow was active and appeared to be well-established.

Location 2: A burrow with a single burrowing owl was observed at this location on April 17 and 18, 2006. This burrow was active with fresh pellets and whitewash.

Location 3: A burrowing owl was observed at this location on April 18, 2006. No active burrow was located in proximity with the sighting of this individual; however, this individual was distinct from the three individuals associated with Locations 1 and 2. The close arrangement of these three locations may indicate a degree of colonial behavior characteristic of this species. Therefore, it is believed a minimum of four individuals were occupying the burrow system present in this area (Locations 1–3).

Location 4: A single burrowing owl at an active burrow was observed at this location on April 17, 2006. Subsequently, on the May 19, 2006, visit, a pair of burrowing owls was observed at this burrow.

Mr. Bruce Grove November 1, 2006 Page 4

Location 5: A pair of burrowing owls was observed moving between two active burrows on April 18, 2006. The burrows were situated approximately mid-slope on the rocky hillsides northeast of the project site. These burrows were active and appeared to be well-established with several fresh pellets and whitewash.

Location 6: A single historic burrow with pellets and whitewash was observed during the April 17, 2006, survey. It was located under the interstate overpass, on the eastern boundary of the survey area. Some evidence of relatively recent occupation was found including relatively recent pellets and feathers; however, no subsequent activity or sign was observed during the remainder of the surveys. No burrowing owls were observed at or near this burrow.

Location 7: A single burrowing owl was observed at this location on May 24, 2006. A single, small active burrow with fresh pellets and whitewash was located, although the individual was not observed entering or leaving the burrow.

Location 8: A pair of burrowing owls was observed using an active burrow at this location on May 31, 2006. Fresh pellets and whitewash were present and both individuals were observed entering and leaving the burrow.

Location 9: A single burrowing owl was observed on the rocky slopes southeast of the project site at this location. No burrow was located; however, the individual was observed on subsequent survey dates.

Recommendations

Several pairs of burrowing owls are located within and adjacent to the survey area for the proposed project. Although not listed by the resource agencies, impacts on this species would likely be considered significant by the Lead Agency under the California Environmental Quality Act, Section 15380.

If construction activities are planned, pre-construction surveys should be conducted by a qualified Biologist within 30 days prior to ground disturbance. Pre-construction surveys can be conducted year-round. If burrowing owl are present within or immediately adjacent to the direct impact area, additional avoidance or minimization measures may be recommended based on the timing and the nature of construction activities.

If you have any questions or comments, please contact Amber Oneal at (714) 444-9199.

Sincerely,

BONTERRA CONSULTING

Amber S. Oneal Project Manager/Ecologist

Attachments: Exhibits 1, 2, 3, and 4 Attachment A – Wildlife Compendium

R:\Projects\RBF\J216\BUOW-110106.doc Mr. Bruce Grove November 1, 2006 Page 5

References

BonTerra Consulting. 2005 (May). Revised Draft Natural Environmental Study Interstate- 10/McNaughton Parkway Interchange. Costa Mesa, California: BonTerra Consulting.

–––––. 2001 (October 2). Results of Focused Burrowing Owl Survey on the Interstate 10 and McNaughton Parkway Interchange Alternative 3 Project Site, Coachella Valley, Riverside County, California. Costa Mesa, California: BonTerra Consulting.

California Burrowing Owl Consortium (CBOC). 1993. Burrowing Owl Survey Protocol and Mitigation Guidelines. Alviso, California: Tech. Rep. CBOC.

California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG). 2005. Special Animals. California Natural Diversity (RareFind) Database. Sacramento: CDFG, Natural Heritage Division.

Center for Biological Diversity. 2003 (April 7). Petition to the State of California Fish and Game Commission and Supporting Information for Listing the California Population of the Western Burrowing Owl (Athene cunicularia hypugaea) as an Endangered or Threatened Species Under the California Endangered Species Act. http://www.biologicaldiversity.org/swcbd/ species/b-owl/petition.pdf

Conway, C.J. and J.C. Simon. 2003. Comparison of Detection Probability Associated With Burrowing Owl Survey Methods. Journal of Wildlife Management 67(3):501–511.

Dechant, J. A., M. L. Sondreal, D. H. Johnson, L. D. Igl, C. M. Goldade, P. A. Rabie, and B. R. Euliss. 2003. Effects of Management Practices on Grassland Birds: Burrowing Owl. Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center Online. Jamestown, ND: Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center. http://www.npwrc.usgs.gov/resource/literatr/grasbird/buow /buow.htm.

Desmond, M.J. and J.A. Savidge. 1998. Burrowing Owl Conservation in the Great Plains (Page 9). Abstracts of the Second International Burrowing Owl Symposium. Ogden, Utah.

Dudek and Associates, Inc. (Dudek). 2003. Western Riverside County Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (prepared for the Riverside County Integrated Project). Encinitas, CA: Dudek. http://www.wrc-rca.org/Permits_Docs.html.

Haug, E.A. and A.B. Didiuk. 1993. Use of Recorded Calls to Detect Burrowing Owls. Journal of Field Ornithologists 64:188–194. Lawrence, Kansas: Allen Press, Inc.

James, T.R. and R.W. Seabloom. 1968. Notes on the Burrow Ecology and Food Habits of the Burrowing Owl in Southwestern North Dakota. Blue Jay 26:83–84.

Moulton, C.E., R.S. Brady, and J.R. Belthoff. Territory Defense of Nesting Burrowing Owls: Responses to Simulated Conspecific Intrusion. Journal of Field Ornithologists 75(3):288–295.

Riverside, County of. 2006 (as amended). Burrowing Owl Survey Instructions for the Western Riverside Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan Area. Riverside: the County. www.tlma.co.riverside.ca.us/epd/documents/Burrowing_Owl_Survey_Instructions.pdf.

Kern ST58 ut95

Needles

e l

e ¨§40 g

n ut395

s Apple

ST86 ¨§5 ¨§15 ST78 D:\Projects\RBF\J216\regional.mxd Regional Location Exhibit 1 I-10/McNaughton Parkway Interchange

2010 0 20 Miles ² R:\Projects\RBF\J216\Graphics\Ex1_RL_120505.pdf

Survey Area

Source: USGS Quad Indio and Thermal Canyon D:\Projects\RBF\J216\vicinity.mxd

Local Vicinity Exhibit 2 I-10/McNaughton Parkway Interchange

2,0001,000 0 2,000 ² Feet R:\Projects\RBF\J216\Graphics\Ex2_LV_062606.pdf

Vegetation Types Exhibit 3 I-10/McNaughton Parkway Interchange

600300 0 600

² Feet R:/Projects/RBF/216/Ex3_BR_062606.pdf

¨¦§10 *# *# 5

*#7 3 *# 6 1*# *# *# 2

A l l A m e 4 ri ca *# n *#

C a n a l

*#8 *# Burrowing Owl Locations Project Impact Area

Survey Area Locations 9 *# D:/Projects/RBF/J216/owl.mxd

Burrowing Owl Locations Exhibit 4 I-10 / Mc Naughton Parkway

800400 0 800 ² Feet R:/Projects/RBF/j216/graphics/ex4_owl_102706.pdf

ATTACHMENT A

WILDLIFE COMPENDIUM

ATTACHMENT A WILDLIFE COMPENDIUM

A-1 ATTACHMENT A (Continued) WILDLIFE COMPENDIUM

A-2 ATTACHMENT A (Continued) WILDLIFE COMPENDIUM

A-3 Appendix G Results of Palm Springs Round-tailed Ground Squirrel Survey

Appendix G Results of Palm Springs Round-tailed Ground Squirrel Survey

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 137 Appendix G Results of Palm Springs Round-tailed Ground Squirrel Survey

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 138

November 1, 2006

Mr. Bruce Grove RBF Consulting 14725 Alton Parkway Irvine, CA 92618

Subject: Results of Focused Surveys for the Palm Springs Round-tailed Ground Squirrel on the Interstate-10 and McNaughton Parkway Interchange Project Site, Coachella Valley, Riverside County, California

Dear Mr. Grove:

This Letter Report presents the results of focused surveys for the Palm Springs round-tailed ground squirrel (PSGS) (Spermophilus tereticaudus) conducted on the Interstate-10 (I-10) and McNaughton Parkway Interchange project site, Coachella Valley, Riverside County, California. Although the PSGS is not currently listed as Threatened or Endangered by either the California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG) or the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), this species is proposed for federal listing. The purpose of the surveys was to determine the presence or absence of the PSGS in the survey area.

Project Location and Description

The I-10/McNaughton Parkway Interchange project site is located in the Coachella Valley, Riverside County (Exhibit 1). The project site is located east of the City of Indio and northeast of the City of Coachella on the I-10 between the existing Dillon Road Interchange and the I-10/Cactus City Safety Roadside Rest Areas (Exhibit 2). The survey area includes the current proposed disturbance limits and a 500-foot buffer. Elevations in the survey area range from approximately 165 to 495 feet above mean sea level. The survey area is located on the U.S. Geological Survey 7.5-Minute Indio and Thermal Canyon quadrangle maps and is within the area covered by the Draft Coachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan. Mr. Bruce Grove November 1, 2006 Page 2

Background

The PSGS is one of four subspecies of round-tailed ground squirrel. Round-tailed ground squirrels range from southern Nevada to southeastern California and southern Arizona in the United States, and extend southward into Mexico (Hall 1981; Wilson and Ruff 1999). However, the PSGS is restricted to the Coachella Valley, Riverside County. The current and historical distribution of the PSGS extends roughly from the San Gorgonio Pass to the vicinity of the Salton Sea (Hall 1981). Habitat for this subspecies has declined due to urbanization and cultivation activities within its range (Williams 1986). The PSGS is a CDFG Species of Special Concern and is currently a USFWS Candidate species. The PSGS is a covered species under the proposed Coachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan.

The round-tailed ground squirrel is white below, but is either plain gray or pinkish cinnamon above, and lacks any stripes or flecking (Ingles 1965). Its total length is approximately ten inches, with a slender round tail about three to four inches in length (Ingles 1965). It is a shy, secretive ground squirrel that is seldom seen above ground in cold weather, and also can be difficult to observe above ground even during warmer periods. PSGS burrows are usually found at the base of shrubs, but can also be in the open (Dodero/RECON 1995). The species emits a distinctive call, described as a high-pitched peep, which sometimes may be produced at regular intervals of approximately 15 seconds when undisturbed (Dodero/RECON 1995). Field observations indicate that individuals may vocalize at irregular intervals when active during the day; thus, a surveyor may fail to detect certain individuals during a particular site visit. As a result, multiple site visits are required for the full-protocol surveys for this species.

In California, habitat for the round-tailed ground squirrel is described as alkali sink and creosote bush scrub with wind-blown sand (Ingles 1965). Other habitats occupied by the round-tailed ground squirrel include desert succulent shrub, desert wash, and levees in agricultural areas (Zeiner et al. 1990). According to Williams (1986), specific habitat requirements for the PSGS consist of dry, level, and sandy areas below 1,200 feet in mesquite (Prosopis sp.), creosote, and Suaeda-Distichlis plant associations. The PSGS is most abundant in areas exhibiting fine sandy soils that support abundant herbaceous growth. Active blow sand areas are not necessarily required.

Survey Methodology

Walking field surveys for PSGS were conducted by BonTerra Consulting Biologist Sam Stewart and Senior Scientist Dr. Mike Robson according to guidelines recommended by the USFWS (Carlsbad Field Office). Survey guidelines provided by the USFWS stated that surveys must be conducted: (1) from May 1 through July 31; (2) from 1 hour to 4 hours after sunrise; (3) when temperatures in the shade are between 80 and 91 degrees Fahrenheit; (4) via transects spaced

1 an alluvial plain formed at the base of a mountain by the coalescing of several alluvial fans (www.dictionary.com). Mr. Bruce Grove November 1, 2006 Page 3 approximately 32 feet apart; and (5) at least 3 times covering the entire site. Ground squirrel survey data is presented in Table 1.

TABLE 1 PALM SPRINGS ROUND-TAILED GROUND SQUIRREL SURVEY DATA

Start Time(hrs)/ End Time(hrs)/ Avg Wind Date Temperature (°F) Temperature(°F) Miles per Hour (mph) Weather May 23, 2006 0700/65°F 1100/94°F 1.5 mph clear May 24, 2006 0600/65°F 1115/94°F 2.5 mph clear May 31, 2006 0615/74°F 1200/98°F 1.0 mph clear June 13, 2006 0630/75°F 1130/96°F 3.0 mph clear June 20, 2006 0600/75°F 1100/92°F 2.5 mph clear July 31, 2006 0630/76°F 1100/102°F 1.0 mph clear

RESULTS

No PSGS or signs of their presence were observed during focused surveys. In general, the habitat south of I-10 and immediately north of I-10 is degraded and considered largely unsuitable for the PSGS. The habitat north of I-10 is characterized by steep rocky hills with little to no sandy soils present. The remaining habitat present on the project site, characterized by more open and flat topography, is very disturbed and the soils are compact and modified due to the construction of the freeway and associated connectors. In these areas, dunes or locations with substantial sandy soils are absent.

Many white-tailed antelope ground squirrels (Ammospermophilus leucurus) and burrows were observed in the survey area. White-tailed antelope ground squirrels are widespread and abundant in most areas of the Coachella Valley that still provide suitable native habitat, especially in creosote scrub along the borders of washes and alluvial fans.

A compendium of wildlife observed during the surveys is provided in Attachment A.

If you have any questions or comments, please contact Amber Oneal at (714) 444-9199.

Sincerely,

BONTERRA CONSULTING

Amber S. Oneal Project Manager/Ecologist

Attachments: Exhibits 1, 2, and 3 Attachment A – Wildlife Compendium

R:\Projects\RBF\J216\PSGS-110106.doc Mr. Bruce Grove November 1, 2006 Page 4

References

BonTerra Consulting. 2005 (May). Revised Draft Natural Environmental Study Interstate- 10/McNaughton Parkway Interchange. Costa Mesa, California: BonTerra Consulting.

California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG). 2005. Special Animals. California Natural Diversity (RareFind) Database. Sacramento: CDFG, Natural Heritage Division.Dodero, M.W./RECON. 1995. Biological Information Report on the Palm Springs Round-tailed Ground Squirrel. Unpublished Report prepared for surveys conducted at Willow Hole and Windy Point Areas, Coachella Valley. San Diego, California: RECON.

Hall, E.R. and K.R. Kelson. 1959. The Mammals of North America (Volume 1). New York, New York: The Ronald Press.

Hall, E.R. 1981. The Mammals of North America (2nd Ed.). New York, New York: John Wiley and Sons.

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

Jaeger, E.C. 1961. Desert Wildlife. Stanford, California: Standford University Press.

Nowak, R.M. 1991. Walker’s Mammals of the World (5th Ed.). Baltimore, Maryland: The Johns Hopkins University Press.

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Soil Conservation Service. 1980. Soil Survey of Riverside County, California, Coachella Valley Area. Washington, D.C.:USDA in cooperation with University of California Agricultural Experiment Station.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 1999 (October 25). Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants: Review of Plant and Animal Taxa that are Candidates or Proposed for Listing as Endangered or Threatened; Annual Notice of findings on Recycled Petitions; and Annual Description of Progress on Listing Actions. Federal Register 64(205): 57533–57547.

Williams, D. F. 1986. Mammalian Species of Special Concern in California (Administrative Report 86-1). Sacramento, California: CDFG.

Wilson, D.E. and S. Ruff. 1999. The Smithsonian Book of North American Mammals. Washington, D.C.: Smithsonian Institution Press.

Zeiner, D. C., W. F. Laudenslayer Jr., K. E. Mayer, M. White (eds). 1990. California’s Wildlife Vol. 3: Mammals. Sacramento, CA: CDFG, The Resources Agency. Kern ST58 ut95

Needles

e l

e ¨§40 g

n ut395

s Apple

ST86 ¨§5 ¨§15 ST78 D:\Projects\RBF\J216\regional.mxd Regional Location Exhibit 1 I-10/McNaughton Parkway Interchange

2010 0 20 Miles ² R:\Projects\RBF\J216\Graphics\Ex1_RL_120505.pdf

Survey Area

Source: USGS Quad Indio and Thermal Canyon D:\Projects\RBF\J216\vicinity.mxd

Local Vicinity Exhibit 2 I-10/McNaughton Parkway Interchange

2,0001,000 0 2,000 ² Feet R:\Projects\RBF\J216\Graphics\Ex2_LV_062606.pdf

Vegetation Types Exhibit 3 I-10/McNaughton Parkway Interchange

600300 0 600

² Feet R:/Projects/RBF/216/Ex3_BR_062606.pdf

ATTACHMENT A

WILDLIFE COMPENDIUM

ATTACHMENT A WILDLIFE COMPENDIUM

A-1 ATTACHMENT A (Continued) WILDLIFE COMPENDIUM

A-2 ATTACHMENT A (Continued) WILDLIFE COMPENDIUM

A-3

Appendix H Results of Palm Springs Pocket Mouse Survey

Appendix H Palm Springs Pocket Mouse Survey

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 139 Appendix H Results of Palm Springs Pocket Mouse Survey

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 140

Appendix I Jurisdictional Delineation

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 141 Appendix I Jurisdictional Delineation

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 142 INTERSTATE 10 / AVENUE 50 INTERCHANGE PROJECT

CITY OF COACHELLA, CALIFORNIA

Delineation of State and Federal Jurisdictional Waters

PREPARED FOR: CITY OF COACHELLA 1515 Sixth Street Coachella, California 92236

CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION-DISTRICT 8 464 West 4th Street San Bernardino, California 92401-1400

March 2015 JN 20-101464/133278

INTERSTATE 10 / AVENUE 50 INTERCHANGE PROJECT

CITY OF COACHELLA, CALIFORNIA

Delineation of State and Federal Jurisdictional Waters

The undersigned certify that this report is a complete and accurate account of the findings and conclusions of a jurisdictional “waters of the U.S.” (including wetlands) and “waters of the State” determination for the above-referenced project.

Lauren Mack Regulatory Specialist Planning and Environmental Services

Richard Beck, PWS, CEP, CPESC Director of Regulatory Services Planning and Environmental Services

March 2015 Abstract

Introduction: At the request of the City of Coachella, RBF Consulting, a Michael Baker International Company (RBF Baker) has prepared this Delineation of Jurisdictional Waters for the Interstate 10 (I-10)/Avenue 50 Interchange Project (project), located in the City of Coachella, Riverside County, California.

Methods: The field work for this delineation was conducted on April 30, 2013. This delineation documents the regulatory authority of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps), Colorado River Regional Water Quality Control Board (Regional Board), and California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) pursuant to the Federal Clean Water Act (CWA), California Porter-Cologne Water Quality Control Act, and California Fish and Game Code1.

Results: The project site contains a total of 1.39-acres of waters of the State and no waters of the U.S. (pending an Approved Jurisdictional Determination from the Corps). Jurisdictional areas consist of desert dry wash/ephemeral streambed (all non-wetland). Placement of fill material or alteration of the streambed within these waters is subject to Regional Board and CDFW jurisdiction and associated regulatory approvals. Table A-1 identifies each regulatory agency and total jurisdiction on-site.

Table A-1. Total Jurisdictional Area

Relevant Reach/ Corps Non- Regional Board CDFW Jurisdictional Active Channel Jurisdictional Area2 Jurisdictional Area Area B 0.03 0.03 0.03 C 0.02 0.02 0.02 D 0.25 0.25 0.25 E 0.61 0.61 0.61 E1 0.26 0.26 0.26 F 0.21 0.21 0.21 G 0.01 0.01 0.01 TOTAL: 1.39 1.39 1.39

Conclusion: The project applicant must obtain the following regulatory approvals prior to commencement of any construction activities within the identified jurisdictional areas: Regional Board Report of Waste Discharge, and CDFW Section 1602 Streambed Alteration Agreement (SAA). This report presents RBF Baker’s best effort at determining the

1 The project area was surveyed pursuant to the Regional Supplement to the Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual: Arid West Region, Version 2.0 (Corps 2008); the Practices for Documenting Jurisdiction under Section 404 of the CWA Regional Guidance Letter (Corps 2007); Minimum Standards for Acceptance of Preliminary Wetland Delineations (Corps 2001); and the Field Guide to Lake and Streambed Alteration Agreements Section 1600-1607 (CDFW 1994). 2 Acreage of Corps waters removed, for reference.

Interstate 10 / Avenue 50 Interchange Project A-1 Abstract jurisdictional boundaries using the most up-to-date regulations, written policy, and guidance from the regulatory agencies. However, as with any jurisdictional delineation, only the regulatory agencies can make a final determination of jurisdiction. Refer to Sections 1-7 for a complete discussion.

Interstate 10 / Avenue 50 Interchange Project A-2 Table of Contents

1.0 INTRODUCTION ...... 1 1.1 Existing Conditions ...... 1 1.2 Project Description ...... 1 1.3 Purpose and Need ...... 5 1.4 Alternatives ...... 5

2.0 SUMMARY OF REGULATIONS ...... 9 2.1 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers ...... 9 2.2 Regional Water Quality Control Board ...... 12 2.3 California Department of Fish and Wildlife ...... 12

3.0 METHODS...... 15 3.1 Waters of the U.S. and State Waters ...... 15 3.2 Wetlands ...... 16 3.3 SWANCC Waters ...... 19 3.4 Rapanos Waters ...... 20

4.0 PROJECT SETTING ...... 21 4.1 Watershed Review ...... 21 4.2 Local Climate ...... 22 4.3 USGS Topographic Quadrangle ...... 23 4.4 Aerial Photograph ...... 24 4.5 Soil Survey ...... 24 4.6 Hydric Soils List of California ...... 26 4.7 National Wetlands Inventory ...... 26 4.8 Flood Zone ...... 26

5.0 SITE CONDITIONS ...... 28 5.1 Vegetation ...... 28 5.2 Hydrology ...... 28 5.3 Soils ...... 36

6.0 FINDINGS ...... 37 6.1 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Determination ...... 37 6.2 Regional Water Quality Control Board Determination ...... 38

Interstate 10 / Avenue 50 Interchange Project i Table of Contents

6.3 California Department of Fish and Wildlife Determination ...... 38

7.0 REGULATORY APPROVAL PROCESS ...... 39 7.1 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers ...... 39 7.2 Regional Water Quality Control Board ...... 39 7.3 California Department of Fish and Wildlife ...... 40 7.4 Global Recommendations ...... 40

8.0 REFERENCES ...... 41

LIST OF TABLES

1. Precipitation Summary ...... 23

LIST OF EXHIBITS

1. Regional Vicinity ...... 2 2. Site Vicinity ...... 3 3. Study Area ...... 4 4a. On-Site Photographs ...... 29 4b. On-Site Photographs ...... 30 5a. Alternative 3 Jurisdictional Impacts Map ...... 31 5b. Alternative 4 Jurisdictional Impacts Map ...... 32

ATTACHMENT

A. Documentation

Interstate 10 / Avenue 50 Interchange Project ii Table of Contents

LIST OF ACRONYMS

CDFW California Department of Fish and Wildlife CEQA California Environmental Quality Act CWA Clean Water Act DBH Diameter at Breast Height EPA Environmental Protection Agency FAC Facultative Vegetation FACU Facultative Upland Vegetation FACW Facultative Wetland Vegetation GPS Ground Positioning System IP Individual Permit MSL Mean Sea Level MS4 Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System NWP Nationwide Permit OBL Obligate Wetland Vegetation OHWM Ordinary High Water Mark RBF Baker RBF Consulting, a Michael Baker International Company RPW Relatively Permanent Waters SAA Streambed Alteration Agreement SBBM San Bernardino Base and Meridian SWANCC Solid Waste Agency of Northern Cook County TNW Traditional Navigable Water UPL Obligate Upland Vegetation USDA United States Department of Agriculture USFWS United States Fish and Wildlife Service USGS United States Geological Survey WoUS Waters of the United States

Interstate 10 / Avenue 50 Interchange Project iii

Section 1 Introduction

This delineation has been prepared for the City of Coachella in order to delineate the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ (Corps), Regional Water Quality Control Board’s (Regional Board), and California Department of Fish and Wildlife’s (CDFW) jurisdictional authority located within the Interstate 10 (I-10)/Avenue 50 Interchange project site. The field work for this delineation was conducted on April 30, 2013.

The project site is located in the City of Coachella, Riverside County, State of California (refer to Exhibit 1, Regional Vicinity, and Exhibit 2, Site Vicinity). More specifically, the proposed project is located approximately 3.4 miles east of the existing I-10/Dillon Road Interchange.

This delineation has been designed to document the authority of the regulatory agencies, explain the methodology undertaken by RBF Consulting, a Michael Baker International Company (RBF Baker) to document jurisdictional authority, and to support the findings made by RBF Baker within the boundaries of the project site. This report presents our best effort at determining the jurisdictional boundaries using the most up-to-date regulations, written policy, and guidance from the regulatory agencies; however, only the regulatory agencies can make a final determination of jurisdictional boundaries. 1.1 EXISTING CONDITIONS

The project site currently consists of the eastbound and westbound lanes of the I-10 freeway and vacant land (refer to Exhibit 3, Study Area). The I-10 was realigned to its current configuration in the 1960’s and consists of four lanes, generally heading in an east/west direction. All lanes are 12-feet wide with outside and inside shoulders of 10-feet and 5-feet, respectively. Two lanes are designated for each direction of travel separated by a dirt median approximately 165 feet in width. Surrounding uses primarily consist of vacant land with the remnants of the historical highway alignment located within the southern portion of the project site.

1.2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION

It is proposed to construct a new interchange at Interstate 10 (I-10) and Avenue 50, from Post Mile (PM) R62.3 to R63.7, within the limits of the City of Coachella (City) in the County of Riverside. The proposed interchange is located approximately 3.4 miles (mi) east of the existing I-10/Dillon Road interchange (PM 58.9) and approximately 12.7 miles west of the existing I-10/Aqueduct Wash interchange (PM 75.0). Within the limits of the project, I-10 is a 4-lane freeway with a median running down the center and no High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) facilities. All lanes are 12 feet (ft) with outside and inside shoulders of 10 ft and 5 ft, respectively. As part of the proposed project, Avenue 50 would be constructed at the new interchange location approximately 600 ft south of I-10 where it would tie into the future

Interstate 10 / Avenue 50 Interchange Project 1 247

SAN BERNARDINO 18 COUNTY Lake Arrowhead 18 Big Bear Lake Twentynine Palms 330 38 62 Yucca 30 Valley 62 Yucaipa Desert 10 Hot Springs

60 Banning Moreno Valley 10 Cathedral RIVERSIDE COUNTY Palm City Springs 111 Perris 243 Project Site Palm Hemet Desert 74 Idyllwild Rancho Indio Mirage Sun Indian Wells Coachella 10 City La Quinta 215 79 86 74 Mecca Anza 15 371 Temecula 79

111 SALTON 76 SEA 79 Warner Springs 86 Borrego 15 Springs Vista 78 Calipatria 115

Escondido 78 Westmorland Julian Encinitas Ramona Brawley Poway IMPERIAL COUNTY SAN DIEGO 5 56 79 67 COUNTY 86 Mira 111 Mesa Imperial Santee 8 Alpine Pine El 52 Valley Centro 15 125 8 163 El San Cajon Ocotillo Diego Calexico Lemon 94 Grove 98 Jamul 54 Dulzura 805 Protrero Campo 5 Chula 94 PACIFIC Vista OCEAN MEXICO

I-10 / AVENUE 50 INTERCHANGE 0 10 14 miles

APPROXIMATE Regional Vicinity 7/11/12 JN 20-101464-18537 MAS Exhibit 1

Project Site

I-10 / AVENUE 50 INTERCHANGE PROJECT JURISDICTIONAL DELINEATION 0 2500'

APPROXIMATE Site Vicinity 5/13/14 JN 133278-20218 MAS Exhibit 2

33 42'22.82" N >! 116 07'34".50" W

!"`$

!"`$ d x m . 7 1 x 1 1 _ a e r A _ y d u t S \ D X M \ S I G \ 8 7 2 3 3 1 \ a t a d 33 41'40.52" N M \ :

M ! > 116 06'22".19" W N J

5 1 0 2 / 8 1 / 3

I-10/AVENUE 50 INTERCHANGE PROJECT 0 250 500 1,000 ° Feet Study Area Source: Eagle Aerial, 2013 Exhibit 3

Introduction

planned extension of Avenue 50, and terminate at the curb returns north of the westbound ramps intersection. The planned extension of Avenue 50 south of I-10, as referenced above, will be constructed prior to construction of the proposed interchange at I-10 and Avenue 50.

1.3 PURPOSE AND NEED

The purpose of the proposed project is to:

Address the anticipated increased traffic demand and associated congestion on the local and regional transportation system, including adjacent interchanges at I- 10/Dillon Road (Rd) and SR-86/Dillon Road; Construct an interchange along I-10 at the future extension of Avenue 50 as identified on the City’s General Plan Circulation Element; and Provide a new regional access point to I-10 to the City and eastern Coachella Valley.

The project addresses the following needs, transportation deficiencies and problems:

The City’s Lane Use Plan Element of the General Plan identifies ongoing and planned development in the eastern part of Coachella that is expected to increase the local population and local/regional traffic demands;

The Circulation Plan Element identifies Avenue 50 as a major arterial east-west corridor with access to I-10 to serve local and regional traffic needs; and

Adjacent interchanges at I-10/Dillon Road and SR-86/Dillon Road are forecast to operate at unacceptable level of service (LOS) by forecast year 2040 based on growth and traffic projections. 1.4 ALTERNATIVES

1.4.1 Project Alternatives

Alternatives accounted for the close proximity of the I-10/Dillon Rd Interchange to the west and existing large drainage patterns to the east and west. Two Build Alternatives and a No- Build Alternative were studied for the I-10/Avenue 50 Interchange Improvement Project.

Alternative 3: New partial cloverleaf interchange

Alternative 4: New spread diamond interchange with WB loop on-ramp

1.4.2 Common Design Features of the Build Alternatives

Each Build Alternative would feature new entrance and exit ramps as well as a new bridge overcrossing providing direct and continuous alignment for Avenue 50 traffic crossing I-10. An overcrossing structure provides the most flexibility with respect to future widening of I-10. There is no future widening planned on Avenue 50 within the interchange limits and the

Interstate 10 / Avenue 50 Interchange Project 5 Introduction

proposed overcrossing is designed at the ultimate width. Dedicated right-turn lanes for the loop on ramp(s) would be provided. Signalization is proposed at all study intersections.

Each build alternative features a new westbound direct on-ramp, and westbound loop on- ramp which merge onto the mainline at one gore point. The additional lane added by the westbound loop on-ramp remains at full width through the westbound direct on-ramp geometry, through the 50:1 westbound direct on-ramp lane drop, and for a distance of 500 ft before reducing at a 50:1 taper to match the existing mainline configuration.

The configuration of the proposed westbound on-ramp would require widening of the existing Echo Ditch bridge in the westbound direction.

Within the project limits, according to the City of Coachella’s General Plan adopted in 1996, the Circulation Element states the ultimate facility configuration for Avenue 50 is a six-lane Major Arterial highway. The current design of Alternatives 3 and 4 provide for a design speed of 45 mph along Avenue 50 through the interchange due to horizontal and vertical geometric constraints. The proposed design speed meets minimum standards per Caltrans’ Highway Design Manual (HDM). Avenue 50 currently terminates west of the Coachella Branch of the All American Canal. All of the alternatives that were analyzed will require the extension of Avenue 50 to connect the City’s existing arterial roadway network to the new interchange location. This extension is included in the adjacent development project located to the south of the interchange and is not part of this project. The extension of Avenue 50 will take place prior to the construction of the interchange project addressed herein. Avenue 50 will terminate at the northern limits of the westbound ramp curb returns.

The proposed eastbound direct entrance ramp for each Build Alternative would require construction of a retaining wall for approximately 650 ft. The type of retaining wall will be determined during the final design phase of the project. The purpose of the proposed retaining wall is to minimize impacts within the Awareness Floodplain Boundary adopted by Riverside County Flood Control and Water Conservation District for Smoky Gulch. The project provides two-lane ramp meter entrances at all interchange entrance ramps, including ROW, geometrics to accommodate vehicle storage, ramp meter equipment, and California Highway Patrol (CHP) enforcement areas, in accordance with the Ramp Meter Design Manual. However, according to the 2012 RTP, no HOV, Park and Ride, or transit facilities are planned within the project limits with the design year 2040. Therefore, it has been determined that HOV preferential lanes would not be included in the project. This is not in compliance with Ramp Metering Policy Procedures and, as such, Fact Sheet Exceptions to Ramp Metering Policy would be created.

Interstate 10 / Avenue 50 Interchange Project 6 Introduction

Alternative 3 and 4 may require relocation of a Sprint line that runs along the south side of I- 10 within the project limits. AT&T, Verizon, Southern California Gas, and Coachella Valley Water District have responded to utility notices stating no known facilities within the proposed project area.

Alternative 3 and 4 would require acquisition of approximately 73.8 AC of ROW for the new interchange ramps and Avenue 50, and is anticipated to involve partial acquisitions of affected parcels. These parcels are located in all four quadrants of the proposed interchange. The total cost of ROW acquisition is estimated to be $2,766,700.

Design Exceptions

Crosswalks are not provided across Avenue 50 as part of the proposed project; therefore, dual curb ramps are not provided. A fact sheet for nonstandard advisory design features will be prepared during final design. There are no other nonstandard features associated with the proposed project.

1.4.3 Unique Features of the Build Alternatives

Two Build Alternatives and a No-Build Alternative are evaluated in this report, and the unique features associated with each alternative are described below.

1.4.3.1 Alternative 3: New Partial Cloverleaf Interchange

Alternative 3 consists of the construction of a new partial cloverleaf-type interchange with loop and direct on-ramps for both westbound and eastbound movements, and direct off- ramps for both westbound and eastbound movements. The proposed typical section of Avenue 50 across I-10 would have six standard traffic lanes and a 4-ft median resulting in a bridge width of 114’-0”.

The estimated roadway costs for Alternative 3 is $33,486,300. The estimated structure cost is $10,765,000. Including ROW, the total estimated cost of Alternative 3 is $47,018,000.

1.4.3.2 Alternative 4: New Spread Diamond Interchange with WB Loop On- Ramp

Alternative 4 consists of the construction of a new partial cloverleaf-type interchange with westbound loop and direct on-ramps, eastbound direct on-ramp, and direct off-ramps for both westbound and eastbound movements. The proposed typical section of Avenue 50

Interstate 10 / Avenue 50 Interchange Project 7 Introduction

across I-10 would have six standard traffic lanes and a 4-ft median. The proposed geometry will incorporate a left-turn lane on southbound Avenue 50 for westbound I-10 movements, resulting in a bridge width of 125’-0”.

The estimated roadway costs for Alternative 4 is $32,686,700. The estimated structure cost is $11,665,000. Including ROW, the total estimated cost of Alternative 4 is $47,118,400.

1.4.4 Alternative 5: No-Build Alternative

Alternative 5, the No-Build Alternative, would maintain the existing facility in its current condition, and no new connection to I-10 would be constructed. There are no capital costs associated with this alternative. The No-Build Alternative would produce no environmental impacts. However, this alternative would not address the projected operational deficiencies as development takes place and traffic demand increases. The existing I-10/Dillon Road Interchange would continue to provide the sole direct point of access to I-10 within the City limits. The western portion of the City will continue to have access to I-10 via SR-86 and Dillon Road. The expanding eastern portion of the City would be required to travel approximately 3 to 5 miles out of direction to access eastbound I-10 via Dillon Road. By the year 2040, the intersections and freeway segments within the area of influence are projected to deteriorate from LOS B to LOS F. The inadequate capacity of the existing interchanges and local street system, when subjected to increased traffic, will contribute to the operational breakdown of the facility and to higher incidence of congestion. The No-Build Alternative would not reduce traffic congestion and not improve the overall traffic movements and safety based on projected traffic for year 2040. The No-Build Alternative would not meet the purpose and need of the project. The No-Build Alternative does provide a basis for comparing the project to the existing project setting.

Interstate 10 / Avenue 50 Interchange Project 8

Section 2 Summary of Regulations

There are three key agencies that regulate activities within inland streams, wetlands, and riparian areas in California. The Corps Regulatory Division regulates activities pursuant to Section 404 of the Federal Clean Water Act (CWA), Section 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act, and Section 103 of the Marine Protection, Research and Sanctuaries Act. Of the State agencies, the CDFW regulates activities under the Fish and Game Code Section 1600- 1616, and the Regional Board regulates activities pursuant to Section 401 of the CWA and the California Porter-Cologne Water Quality Control Act.

2.1 U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS

Since 1972, the Corps and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have jointly regulated the filling of “waters of the U.S.”, including wetlands, pursuant to Section 404 of the CWA. The Corps has regulatory authority over the discharge of dredged or fill material into the waters of the United States (WoUS) under Section 404 of the CWA. The Corps and EPA define “fill material” to include any “material placed in waters of the United States where the material has the effect of: (i) replacing any portion of a water of the United States with dry land; or (ii) changing the bottom elevation of any portion of the waters of the United States.” Examples include, but are not limited to, sand, rock, clay, construction debris, wood chips, and “materials used to create any structure or infrastructure in the waters of the United States.” The term WoUS is defined as follows3:

(1) all waters which are currently used, or were used in the past, or may be susceptible to use in interstate or foreign commerce, including all waters which are subject to the ebb and flow of the tide;

(2) all interstate waters including interstate wetlands;

(3) all other waters such as intrastate lakes, rivers, streams (including intermittent streams), mudflats, sandflats, wetlands, sloughs, prairie potholes, wet meadows, playa lakes, or natural ponds, the use, degradation or destruction of which could affect interstate or foreign commerce including any such waters: (i) which are or could be used by interstate or foreign travelers for recreational or other purposes; or (ii) from which fish or shellfish are or could be taken and sold in interstate or foreign commerce; or (iii) which are used or could be used for industrial purpose by industries in interstate commerce;

(4) all impoundments of waters otherwise defined as WoUS under the definition;

3 CWA regulations 33 CFR §328.3(a).

Interstate 10 / Avenue 50 Interchange Project 9 Summary of Regulations

(5) tributaries of waters identified in paragraphs (1)-(4) mentioned above;

(6) the territorial seas; and,

(7) wetlands adjacent to the waters identified in paragraphs (1)-(6) mentioned above.

Wetlands, a subset of jurisdictional waters, are jointly defined by the Corps and EPA as “those areas that are inundated or saturated by surface or groundwater at a frequency and duration sufficient to support, and under normal circumstances do support, a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions.”4 Wetlands generally include swamps, marshes, bogs, and similar areas.

The Corps’ regulatory program continues to evolve due to court rulings associated with litigation. Sections 2.1.1 and 2.1.2, below, briefly discuss court cases that have impacted the Corps’ jurisdiction over the past decade.

2.1.1 Solid Waste Agency of Northern Cook County v. US Army Corps of Engineers (Isolated Conditions)

On January 9, 2001, the US Supreme Court issued the decision on Solid Waste Agency of Northern Cook County v. United States Corps of Engineers (SWANCC). The CWA regulates “navigable waters,” which is defined as “WoUS.” This definition has been interpreted broadly by the Corps and EPA, to the extent that it reflected Congress’ intention to regulate all waters that the Congress could constitutionally regulate under its commerce power (generally referred to as the Commerce Clause). Specifically, WoUS were regulated under Section 404 of the CWA if there was any possible connection to interstate commerce. The Corps stated that WoUS includes, among other things, intrastate waters:

(1) that are or would be used as habitat by birds protected by migratory bird treaties; or

(2) that are or would be used as habitat by other migratory birds that cross state lines; or

(3) that are or would be used as habitat for endangered species; or

(4) that are or would be used to irrigate crops sold in interstate commerce.

This approach was referred to as the Migratory Bird Rule. Although the SWANCC site was not a wetland, the Corps found that approximately 121 bird species dependent on aquatic environments were observed at the site; therefore, the site was jurisdictional. The Corps denied the 404 permit since they found that the preferred project alternative was not the least damaging practicable alternative. The SWANCC sued to challenge the Corps’

4 CWA regulations 33 CFR §328.3(b).

Interstate 10 / Avenue 50 Interchange Project 10 Summary of Regulations

jurisdiction over the site, claiming that the Corps could not regulate non-navigable, isolated, intrastate waters based on the presence of migratory birds, and that Congress lacked authority under the Commerce Clause to grant the Corps such jurisdiction. Although the Corps prevailed in the lower courts, the US Supreme Court reversed the finding and invalidated the Migratory Bird Rule. It held that the rule is not a fairly supported interpretation of the term WoUS, and the Corps’ use of the “migratory bird rule,” adopted by the Corps and the EPA to interpret the reach of their Section 404 authority over discharges into “isolated waters” (including isolated wetlands), exceeded the authority granted by that section. In summary, the Corps does not regulate isolated water with no interstate or foreign commerce connection.

2.1.2 Rapanos v. United States (Significant Nexus Test)

On June 19, 2006, the U.S. Supreme Court decision on the Rapanos v. United States 547 U.S. 715 (2006) (Rapanos) case further limited the definition of wetlands and WoUS under the CWA. The Rapanos decision was a 4-1-4 plurality opinion since the majority of the Justices could not agree on a direction to give the lower court. Four Justices advocated a narrower interpretation of the CWA to hold that WoUS excludes intermittent or ephemeral streams and wetlands without a continuous surface connection to navigable waters (only permanent or continuous flowing bodies into navigable waters would be regulated). The other four Justices held to the prior interpretation that WoUS, including any waters that were tributary to and had a hydrologic connection with navigable waters, were regulated. Justice Kennedy, in his opinion, stated that WoUS should be determined on a case-by-case basis by the Corps, specifically based on whether a waterbody has a “significant nexus” to a navigable river.

The Corps and EPA released a memorandum on June 5, 2007, with further clarification on December 2, 2008, in order to provide guidance in implementing the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision. In accordance with the decision, the Corps will assert jurisdiction over traditional navigable waters (TNWs) and all wetlands adjacent to TNWs, as well as non-navigable tributaries of TNWs that are relatively permanent waters (RPW) (i.e., the tributaries typically flow year-round or have a continuous flow at least seasonally) and wetlands with a continuous surface connection that directly abut such tributaries; however, the agencies will evaluate jurisdiction over the following features based on a fact-specific analysis to determine whether they have a significant nexus with a TNW:

Non-navigable tributaries that are not relatively permanent (do not flow typically year- round or have a continuous flow at least seasonally);

Wetlands adjacent to such tributaries; and,

Interstate 10 / Avenue 50 Interchange Project 11 Summary of Regulations

Wetlands adjacent to, but that do not directly abut, a relatively permanent non- navigable tributary.

A case-by-case “significant nexus” analysis is conducted to determine whether the waters noted above and their adjacent wetlands are jurisdictional. A “significant nexus” may be found where waters, including adjacent wetlands, affect the chemical, physical, or biological integrity of downstream TNWs. The significant nexus analysis also includes consideration of hydrologic and ecologic factors relative to TNWs. RBF Baker’s methodology regarding significant nexus determinations is discussed in Section 3.0.

2.2 REGIONAL WATER QUALITY CONTROL BOARD

Applicants for a federal license or permit for activities which may discharge to waters of the United States must seek Water Quality Certification from the state or Indian tribe with jurisdiction. 5 Such Certification is based on a finding that the discharge will meet water quality standards and other applicable requirements. In California, Regional Boards issue or deny Certification for discharges within their geographical jurisdiction. Water Quality Certification must be based on a finding that the proposed discharge will comply with water quality standards, which are defined as numeric and narrative objectives in each Regional Board’s Basin Plan. Where applicable, the State Water Resources Control Board has this responsibility for projects affecting waters within multiple Regional Boards. The Regional Board’s jurisdiction extends to all waters of the State (includes SWANCC and Rapanos conditions) and to all WoUS, including wetlands.

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

2.3 CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND WILDLIFE

California Fish and Game Code Sections 1600-1616 establish a fee-based process to ensure that projects conducted in and around lakes, rivers, or streams do not adversely impact fish and wildlife resources, or, when adverse impacts cannot be avoided, ensures that adequate mitigation and/or compensation is provided.

5 Title 33, United States Code, Section 1341; Clean Water Act Section.

Interstate 10 / Avenue 50 Interchange Project 12 Summary of Regulations

Fish and Game Code Section 1602 requires any person, state, or local governmental agency or public utility to notify the CDFW before beginning any activity that will do one or more of the following:

(1) substantially obstruct or divert the natural flow of a river, stream, or lake; (2) substantially change or use any material from the bed, channel, or bank of a river, stream, or lake; or (3) deposit or dispose of debris, waste, or other material containing crumbled, flaked, or ground pavement where it can pass into a river, stream, or lake.

Fish and Game Code Section 1602 applies to all perennial, intermittent, and ephemeral rivers, streams, and lakes in the state. The CDFW’s regulatory authority extends to include riparian habitat (including wetlands) supported by a river, stream, or lake regardless of the presence or absence of hydric soils and saturated soil conditions. Generally, the CDFW takes jurisdiction to the top of bank of the stream or to the outer limit of the adjacent riparian vegetation (outer drip line), whichever is greater. Notification is generally required for any project that will take place in or in the vicinity of a river, stream, lake, or their tributaries. This includes rivers or streams that flow at least periodically or permanently through a bed or channel with banks that support fish or other aquatic life and watercourses having a surface or subsurface flow that support or have supported riparian vegetation.

Any of the below criteria could be applicable in determining what constitutes a stream depending on the potential for the proposed activity to adversely affect fish and other stream-dependent wildlife resources.

(1) The term “stream” can include intermittent and ephemeral streams, rivers, creeks, dry washes, sloughs, blue-line streams based on United States Geological Survey (USGS) maps, and watercourses with subsurface flows. Canals, aqueducts, irrigation ditches, and other means of water conveyance can also be considered streams if they support aquatic life, riparian vegetation, or stream-dependent terrestrial wildlife. (2) Biological components of a stream may include aquatic and riparian vegetation, along with all aquatic animals including fish, amphibians, reptiles, invertebrates, and terrestrial species which derive benefits from the stream system. (3) As a physical system, a stream not only includes water (at least on an intermittent or ephemeral basis), but also a bed or channel, a bank and/or levee, in-stream features such as logs or snags, and various flood plains depending on the return frequency of the flood event being considered (i.e., 10, 50, or 100 years, etc.).

Interstate 10 / Avenue 50 Interchange Project 13 Summary of Regulations

(4) The lateral extent of a stream can be measured in several ways depending on a particular situation and the type of fish or wildlife resource at risk. The following criteria are presented in order from the most inclusive to the least inclusive:

(a) The flood plain of a stream can be the broadest measurement of a stream’s lateral extent depending on the return frequency of the flood event used. For most flood control purposes, the 100-year flood plain exists for many streams. However, the 100-year flood plain may include significant amounts of upland or urban habitat and therefore may not be appropriate in many cases. (b) The outer edge of riparian vegetation is generally used as the line of demarcation between riparian and upland habitats and is therefore a reasonable and identifiable boundary for the lateral extent of a stream. In most cases, the use of this criterion should result in protecting the fish and wildlife resources at risk. (c) Most streams have a natural bank which confines flows to the bed or channel except during flooding. In some instances, particularly on smaller streams or dry washes with little or no riparian habitat, the bank should be used to mark the lateral extent of a stream. (d) A levee or other artificial stream bank would also be used to mark the lateral extent of a stream. However, in many instances, there can be extensive areas of valuable riparian habitat located behind a levee.

Interstate 10 / Avenue 50 Interchange Project 14

Section 3 Methods

The analysis presented in this document is supported by field surveys and verification of current conditions conducted on April 30, 2013. While in the field, jurisdictional areas were recorded onto a base map at a scale of 1" = 250' using the topographic contours and visible landmarks as guidelines. Data points were obtained with a Garmin 62 Ground Positioning System (GPS) Map62 in order to record and identify specific ordinary high water marks (OHWM), soil pits, picture locations, and drainage features. This data was then transferred via USB port as a .shp file and added to the project's jurisdictional map. The jurisdictional map was prepared in ESRI ArcInfo Version 10.1.

Drought conditions have developed over the past four years in California. Evaluation of temporal shifts in vegetation and periodic lack of hydrology indicators during periods of below-normal rainfall, drought conditions, and unusually low winter snowpack is needed. Different sampling and analytical approaches for evaluating both vegetation under extended drought conditions and hydrology in drought years has been identified. To the extent possible, the hydrophytic vegetation decision is based on the plant community that is normally present during the wet portion of the growing season in a normal rainfall year. The evaluation of hydrology considers the timing of the site visit in relation to normal seasonal and annual hydrologic variability, and whether the amount of rainfall prior to the site visit has been normal. In drought conditions, direct observation of plants and hydrology indicators may be misleading or problematic, so other methods of making wetland decisions are appropriate. In general, wetland determinations on difficult or problematic sites must be based on the best information available to the field inspector, interpreted in light of his or her professional experience and knowledge of the ecology of wetlands in the region. Wetland determinations are based on a preponderance of all available information, including in many cases remote sensing and longer term data, not just the field data collected under drought conditions.6

3.1 WATERS OF THE U.S. AND STATE WATERS

In the absence of adjacent wetlands, the limits of the Corps’ jurisdiction in non-tidal waters extend to the OHWM, which is defined as “ . . . that line on the shore established by the fluctuations of water and indicated by physical characteristics such as a clear, natural line impressed on the bank, shelving, changes in the character of soil, destruction of terrestrial vegetation, the presence of litter and debris, or other appropriate means that consider the characteristics of the surrounding areas.”7 An OHWM can be determined by the observation of a natural line impressed on the bank; shelving; changes in the character of the soil; destruction of terrestrial vegetation; presence of litter and debris; wracking; vegetation

6 Corps Sacramento District, Public Notice SPK-2014-00005, Guidance on Delineations in Drought Conditions, February 2014. 7 CWA regulations 33 CFR §328.3(e).

Interstate 10 / Avenue 50 Interchange Project 15 Methods

matted down, bent, or absent; sediment sorting; leaf litter disturbed or washed away; scour; deposition; multiple observed flow events; bed and banks; water staining; and/or change in plant community. The Regional Board shares the Corps’ jurisdictional methodology, unless SWANCC or Rapanos conditions are present. In the latter case, the Regional Board considers such drainages to be jurisdictional waters of the State. The CDFW’s jurisdiction extends to the top of bank of the stream/channel or to the limit (outer dripline) of the adjacent riparian vegetation.

3.2 WETLANDS

For this project location, Corps jurisdictional wetlands are delineated using the methods outlined in the Regional Supplement to the Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual: Arid West Region, Version 2.0 (Corps, 2008). This document is one of a series of Regional Supplements to the 1987 Corps Wetland Delineation Manual (Corps Manual). According to the Corps Manual, identification of wetlands is based on a three-parameter approach involving indicators of hydrophytic vegetation, hydric soil, and wetland hydrology. In order to be considered a wetland, an area must exhibit at least minimal characteristics within these three (3) parameters. The Regional Supplement presents wetland indicators, delineation guidance, and other information that is specific to the Arid West Region. In the field, vegetation, soils, and evidence of hydrology have been examined using the methodology listed below and documented on Corps’ wetland data sheets, when applicable. It should be noted that both the Regional Board and the CDFW jurisdictional wetlands encompass those of the Corps.

3.2.1 Vegetation

Nearly 5,000 plant types in the United States may occur in wetlands. These plants, often referred to as hydrophytic vegetation, are listed in regional publications by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). In general, hydrophytic vegetation is present when the plant community is dominated by species that can tolerate prolonged inundation or soil saturation during growing season. Hydrophytic vegetation decisions are based on the assemblage of plant species growing on a site, rather than the presence or absence of particular indicator species. Vegetation strata are sampled separately when evaluating indicators of hydrophytic vegetation. A stratum for sampling purposes is defined as having 5 percent or more total plant cover. The following vegetation strata are recommended for use across the Arid West:

Tree Stratum: Consists of woody plants 3 inches or more in diameter at breast height (DBH);

Sapling/shrub stratum: Consists of woody plants less than 3 inches in DBH, regardless of height;

Interstate 10 / Avenue 50 Interchange Project 16 Methods

Herb stratum: Consists of all herbaceous (non-woody) plants, including herbaceous vines, regardless of size; and,

Woody vines: Consists of all woody vines, regardless of size.

The following indicator is applied per the test method below.8 Hydrophytic vegetation is present if any of the indicators are satisfied.

Indicator 1 – Dominance Test

Cover of vegetation is estimated and is ranked according to their dominance. Species that contribute to a cumulative total of 50% of the total dominant coverage, plus any species that comprise at least 20% (also known as the “50/20 rule”) of the total dominant coverage, are recorded on a wetland data sheet. Wetland indicator status in California (Region 0) is assigned to each species using The List of Plant Species that Occur in Wetlands (USFWS, 1988). If greater than 50% of the dominant species from all strata were Obligate, Facultative-wetland, or Facultative species, the criteria for wetland vegetation is considered to be met. Plant indicator status categories are described below:

Obligate Wetland (OBL): Plants that occur almost always (estimated >99 percent) in wetlands under natural conditions, but which may also occur rarely (estimated <1 percent) in non-wetlands (e.g., Spartina alterniflora, Taxodium distichum);

Facultative Wetland (FACW): Plants that occur usually (estimated >67 to 99 percent) in wetlands, but also occur (estimated 1 to 33 percent) in non-wetlands (e.g., Fraxinus pennsylvanica, Cornus stolonifera);

Facultative (FAC): Plants with similar likelihood (estimated 33 to 67 percent) of occurring in both wetlands and non-wetlands (e.g., Gleditsia triacanthos, Smilax rotundifolia);

Facultative Upland (FACU): Plants that occur sometimes (estimated 1 to <33 percent) in wetlands, but occur more often (estimated >67 to 99 percent) in non- wetlands (e.g., Quercus rubra, Potentilla arguta); and,

Obligate Upland (UPL): Plants that occur rarely (estimated 1 percent) in wetlands, but occur almost always (estimated >99 percent) in non-wetlands under natural conditions (e.g., Pinus echinata, Bromus mollis).

8 Although the Dominance Test is utilized in the majority of wetland delineations, other indicator tests may be employed. If one indicator of hydric soil and one primary or two secondary indicators of wetland hydrology are present, then the Prevalence Test (Indicator 2) may be performed. If the plant community satisfies the Prevalence Test, then the vegetation is hydric. If the Prevalence Test fails, then the Morphological Adaptation Test may be performed, where the delineator analyzes the vegetation for potential morphological features.

Interstate 10 / Avenue 50 Interchange Project 17 Methods

3.2.2 Hydrology

Wetland hydrology indicators are presented in four (4) groups, which include:

Group A – Observation of Surface Water or Saturated Soils

Group A is based on the direct observation of surface water or groundwater during the site visit.

Group B – Evidence of Recent Inundation

Group B consists of evidence that the site is subject to flooding or ponding, although it may not be inundated currently. These indicators include water marks, drift deposits, sediment deposits, and similar features.

Group C – Evidence of Recent Soil Saturation

Group C consists of indirect evidence that the soil was saturated recently. Some of these indicators, such as oxidized rhizopheres surrounding living roots and the presence of reduced iron or sulfur in the soil profile, indicate that the soil has been saturated for an extended period.

Group D – Evidence from Other Site Conditions or Data

Group D consists of vegetation and soil features that indicate contemporary rather than historical wet conditions, and include shallow aquitard and the FAC-neutral test.

If wetland vegetation criteria is met, the presence of wetland hydrology is evaluated at each transect by recording the extent of observed surface flows, depth of inundation, depth to saturated soils, and depth to free water in the soil test pits. The lateral extent of the hydrology indicators are used as a guide for locating soil pits for evaluation of hydric soils and jurisdictional areas. In portions of the stream where the flow is divided by multiple channels with intermediate sand bars, the entire area between the channels is considered within the OHWM and the wetland hydrology indicator is considered met for the entire area.

3.2.3 Soils

A hydric soil is a soil that formed under conditions of saturation, flooding, or ponding long enough during the growing season to develop anaerobic conditions in the upper 16-20 inches.9 The concept of hydric soils includes soils developed under sufficiently wet conditions to support the growth and regeneration of hydrophytic vegetation. Soils that are

9 According to the Regional Supplement to the Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual: Arid West Region, Version 2.0 (Corps 2008), growing season dates are determined through on-site observations of the following indicators of biological activity in a given year: (1) above-ground growth and development of vascular plants, and/or (2) soil temperature.

Interstate 10 / Avenue 50 Interchange Project 18 Methods

sufficiently wet because of artificial measures are included in the concept of hydric soils. It should also be noted that the limits of wetland hydrology indicators are used as a guide for locating soil pits. If any hydric soil features are located, progressive pits are dug moving laterally away from the active channel until hydric features are no longer present within the top 20 inches of the soil profile.

Once in the field, soil characteristics are verified by digging soil pits along each transect to an excavation depth of 20 inches; in areas of high sediment deposition, soil pit depth may be increased. Soil pit locations are usually placed within the drainage invert or within adjoining vegetation. At each soil pit, the soil texture and color are recorded by comparison with standard plates within a Munsell Soil Chart (1994). Munsell Soil Charts aid in designating color labels to soils, based by degrees of three simple variables – hue, value, and chroma. Any indicators of hydric soils, such as organic accumulation, iron reduction, translocation, and accumulation, and sulfate reduction, are also recorded.

Hydric soil indicators are present in three groups, which include:

All Soils

“All soils” refers to soils with any United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) soil texture. Hydric soil indicators within this group include histosol, histic epipedon, black histic, hydrogen sulfide, stratified layers, 1 cm muck, depleted below dark surface, and thick dark surface.

Sandy Soils

“Sandy soils” refers to soil materials with a USDA soil texture of loamy fine sand and coarser. Hydric soil indicators within this group include sandy mucky mineral, sandy gleyed matrix, sandy redox, and stripped matrix.

Loamy and Clayey Soils

“Loamy and clayey soils” refers to soil materials with a USDA soil texture of loamy very fine sand and finer. Hydric soil indicators within this group include loamy mucky mineral, loamy gleyed matrix, depleted matrix, redox dark surface, depleted dark surface, redox depressions, and vernal pools.

3.3 SWANCC WATERS

The term “isolated waters” is generally applied to waters/wetlands that are not connected by surface water to a river, lake, ocean, or other body of water. In the presence of isolated conditions, the Regional Board and CDFW take jurisdiction through the application of the OHWM/streambed and/or the 3-parameter wetland methodology utilized by the Corps.

Interstate 10 / Avenue 50 Interchange Project 19 Methods

3.4 RAPANOS WATERS

The Corps will assert jurisdiction over non-navigable, not relatively permanent tributaries and their adjacent wetlands where such tributaries and wetlands have a significant nexus to a TNW. The flow characteristics and functions of the tributary itself, in combination with the functions performed by any wetlands adjacent to the tributary, determine if these waters/wetlands significantly affect the chemical, physical, and biological integrity of the TNWs. Factors considered in the significant nexus evaluation include:

(1) The consideration of hydrologic factors including, but not limited to, the following:

volume, duration, and frequency of flow, including consideration of certain physical characteristics of the tributary proximity to the TNW size of the watershed average annual rainfall average annual winter snow pack

(2) The consideration of ecologic factors including, but not limited to, the following:

the ability for tributaries to carry pollutants and flood waters to TNWs the ability of a tributary to provide aquatic habitat that supports a TNW the ability of wetlands to trap and filter pollutants or store flood waters maintenance of water quality

In the presence of Rapanos drainage conditions, the Regional Board and CDFW take jurisdiction via the OHWM and/or the 3-parameter wetland methodology utilized by the Corps.

It should be noted that the Corps and EPA have proposed new rules to delineation methodology and federal jurisdictional authority. At the time of this report, the proposed rules have not been made final and therefore do not impact the report’s findings. Should new rules be approved prior to the start of construction the delineation would require an update to ensure consistency with the latest federal regulations.

Interstate 10 / Avenue 50 Interchange Project 20

Section 4 Project Setting

Review of relevant literature and materials often aids in preliminarily identifying areas that may fall under an agency’s jurisdiction. A summary of RBF Baker’s literature review is provided below (refer to Section 8.0 for a complete list of references used during the course of this delineation).

4.1 WATERSHED REVIEW

The Salton Sea Watershed is located in the Sonoran desert region in the southeastern corner of California, encompassing one-third of the Colorado River Basin Region (about 8,360 square miles). The Salton Sea is located in a closed desert basin in Riverside and Imperial Counties in Southern California, south of Indio and north of El Centro. The basin is more than 200 feet below sea level and has no natural outlet. Although lakes have existed in this basin in the past, the current body of water formed in 1905 when a levee break along the Colorado River caused its flows to enter the basin for about 18 months. Since 1905, the Salton Sea has fluctuated in size with varying inflow, and it today has a surface area of about 365 square miles.

A balance between inflowing water and evaporation sustains the Salton Sea. With no outlet, any salts that are dissolved in the inflow are trapped. Salt concentrations in the Salton Sea are currently about 48,000 milligrams per liter (mg/L), or about 30 percent higher than ocean water. Salinity will continue to rise under current conditions, however, under the recently approved Quantification Settlement Agreement inflow to the Sea will be will be significantly reduced. The reduction in inflow will cause the Sea to shrink and cause salinity to rise faster than it would have without a reduction in inflow.

A gradual increase in salinity and its consequences was recognized soon after the Sea was formed. Various salinity control measures were studied as early as the mid-1950s. Since then, many alternatives have been proposed and analyzed. The current effort by the California Resources Agency is the latest attempt to develop a permanent solution to continued degradation of the environmental values of the Sea.10

The Whitewater River is tributary to the Salton Sea and is defined in the Basin Plan as the reach from the headwaters in the San Gorgonio Mountains to (and including) the Whitewater recharge basins near the Indian Avenue crossing in the City of Palm Springs. The reach of the Whitewater River from the Whitewater recharge basins near Indian Avenue to the Coachella Valley Stormwater Channel (CVSC) near Indio is defined as a Wash (Intermittent

10 http://www.water.ca.gov/saltonsea/

Interstate 10 / Avenue 50 Interchange Project 21 Project Setting

or Ephemeral Stream) in the Basin Plan. The Whitewater River is not listed as an Impaired Waterbody within the Whitewater River Region. Due to the small percentage of the Whitewater River Watershed and the Whitewater River Region in urban land uses, urban runoff constitutes a minor percentage of the total flow in the Whitewater River under storm conditions.11

The CVSC is located in the Coachella Valley, within Riverside County, California. The Valley is largely agricultural, utilizing ground water and water from the Colorado River delivered by the Coachella Canal via the All-American Canal, for crop irrigation. CVSC is an engineered extension of the Whitewater River that functions as a conveyance channel for: (a) irrigation return flows, (b) treated wastewater from three permitted municipal wastewater treatment plants, (c) wastewater discharged from one permitted fish farm, and (d) urban and storm water runoff. The channel is approximately 25 miles in length, extending from the City of La Quinta, west of Washington Street, to the north shore of the Salton Sea. The bottom of the channel is unlined, although the walls of the CVSC are concrete-lined in some areas, to facilitate flow and reduce erosion. The proposed amendment would only apply to the last 17 miles of the CVSC where perennial flow exists, beginning in the City of Coachella just west of Dillon Road at the outlet of the Valley Sanitary Waste Water Treatment Facility, and terminating at the northern shore of the Salton Sea.12

4.2 LOCAL CLIMATE

The Coachella Valley Basin is located in the Colorado Desert Region. Located in the northern region of the Salton Trough, in Riverside County, it is characterized by warm summer days and mild winters with low average precipitation.

The project site is located in the Arid West, which is known for a significant degree of variability in spatial and temporal rainfall amounts. Rainfall is extremely limited with average annual precipitation rates of 2 to 4 inches. Most rainfall occurs during winter months though high intensity rains can sometimes occur during the mid-summer producing flash floods and severe erosion.

Climate in the Arid West is generally hot and dry with a long summer dry period. Average annual precipitation mostly <15 inches except along the coast. Most precipitation falls as rain. Annual temperature variations in the Coachella Valley are extreme with occasional winter lows in the mid-20s (degrees Fahrenheit [°F]) and occasional summer highs in the mid-120s (°F). The mean annual temperature is 74(°F).13 On average, the warmest month is

11http://www.waterboards.ca.gov/coloradoriver/boarddecisions/adoptedorders/orders/2008/08_0001ms4_permit 12 http://www.waterboards.ca.gov/coloradoriver/waterissues/programs/basinplanning/docs/chllavlly/stf_rpt 13 http://www.cvconservation.org/coachellavalley.html

Interstate 10 / Avenue 50 Interchange Project 22 Project Setting

July at 107°F and the coolest month is December at 44°F. The maximum average precipitation occurs in February with 0.66 inches.

Rainfall is highly variable in either season, with long dry periods interrupted by occasional short, stormy periods. In summer, convective thunderstorms can be very intense, producing severe flash floods that fill the normally dry washes. The water soon dissipates, although some will remain below the surface.

This is the true low desert, and temperatures are very hot in summer and mild in winter. Summertime daily high temperatures are regularly above 104oF and frequently top 113oF. On the other hand, winter is usually quite pleasant with daily high temperatures averaging around 72oF and nighttime lows around 41oF. Sub-freezing temperatures are not common, although occasional cold outbreaks bring lows in the 23oF range.

Below is a summary of the recorded average precipitation for the project area which has been generally consolidated in 10 year increments beginning in 1904 through December 2012.14

Table 1. Precipitation Summary

Years Begin Date End Date Average Precipitation 1904-1910 1/1/1904 12/31/1910 2.87 1911-1919 1/1/1911 12/31/1919 2.93 1920-1929 1/1/1920 12/31/1929 3.61 1930-1939 1/1/1930 12/31/1939 3.91 1940-1949 1/1/1940 12/31/1949 3.69 1950-1959 1/1/1950 12/31/1959 2.42 1960-1969 1/1/1960 12/31/1969 2.56 1970-1979 1/1/1970 12/31/1979 3.77 1980-1989 1/1/1980 12/31/1989 3.07 1990-1999 1/1/1990 12/31/1999 2.70 2000-2012 1/1/2000 12/31/2012 2.26

4.3 USGS TOPOGRAPHIC QUADRANGLE

The USGS 7.5 Minute Series Topographic Quadrangle maps show geological formations and their characteristics, describing the physical setting of an area through contour lines and major surface features including lakes, rivers, streams, buildings, landmarks, and other factors that may fall under an agency’s jurisdiction. Additionally, the maps depict

14 Weathersource.com, January 19, 2013

Interstate 10 / Avenue 50 Interchange Project 23 Project Setting

topography through color and contour lines, which are helpful in determining elevations and latitude and longitude within a project site.

Most topographic maps are made from aerial photos and, due to errors in photo interpretation, some streams which should be shown as “blue-line” or “dashed blue-line” are not shown. Even the most detailed topographic maps (7.5 minute) do not show all streams. Drainages and wetlands do not need to be labeled on USGS maps in order to be jurisdictional.

The project site is located within Sections 25, 26, 35 and 36, Township 5 south, Range 8 east, San Bernardino Base Meridian of the USGS Thermal Canyon, California and Indio, California quadrangles. On-site topography ranges from approximately 150 to 480 feet above msl, and slopes to the southwest.

Based on current topographic maps, two blue-line streams trend the project site in a northeast to southwest direction. These features originate in the Little San Bernardino Mountains as first order streams from East Double and West Double Canyons. Several smaller unnamed drainages also coalesce into the features above. The project is located along the existing I-10 Freeway and is primarily surrounded by undeveloped land.

4.4 AERIAL PHOTOGRAPH

Prior to the field visits, RBF Baker reviewed an aerial photograph, provided by Google Earth Imaging and Eagle Aerial 2012 for the project site. Aerial photographs can be useful during the delineation process, as the photographs often indicate drainages and vegetation (i.e., riparian vegetation) present within the boundaries of the project site.

According to the aerial photograph, the project site consists of the I-10 Freeway, and undeveloped and sparsely vegetated land. Multiple distributary drainages can be seen throughout the project site trending in a southwest direction across the site. Also observed on the aerial photograph are older fan deposits which are characterized by lag gravel pavements and display a darker desert varnish.

Historical aerial photographs, as available, were reviewed on Google Earth. Historical aerial photographs were available between 1996 and 2012. The project site was similar in all years reviewed. No significant changes in drainage location or vegetation types were noted. No ponding was noted on-site during the aerial photograph review.

4.5 SOIL SURVEY

On-site and adjoining soils were researched prior to the field visits using the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation Service, Soil Survey for Colorado Desert Area,

Interstate 10 / Avenue 50 Interchange Project 24 Project Setting

California (refer to Attachment A, Documentation). The presence of hydric soils is initially investigated by comparing the mapped soil series for the site to the County list of hydric soils. Soil surveys furnish soil maps and interpretations originally needed in providing technical assistance to farmers and ranchers; in guiding other decisions about soil selection, use, and management; and in planning, research, and disseminating the results of the research. In addition, soil surveys are now heavily utilized in order to obtain soil information with respect to potential wetland environments and jurisdictional areas (i.e., soil characteristics, drainage, and color). The following soil series have been reported on-site: Badland (BA): Badland soils consist of very steep, excessively drained, severely eroded areas broken by numerous deeply entrenched channels and many steep side drainages that have raw bands, or freshly exposed material. The slightly consolidated sandy alluvium is capped with a very thin mantle of loose sand. Badland produces large amounts of sediment and is nearly barren of vegetation. These soils are found on 50-75 percent slopes, with a parent material of consolidated sandy alluvium. In a typical profile 0 to 60 inches is weathered bedrock. The depth to restrictive feature is 0 to 3 inches to paralithic bedrock. The capacity of the most limiting layer to transmit water (Ksat) is moderately high at 0.20 to 0.57 in/hr. Surface runoff is very rapid and the erosion hazard very high.

Carsitas gravelly sand, 0 to 9 percent slopes (CdC): This nearly level to moderately sloping soil is on alluvial fans along the east, north, and west edges of the Coachella Valley. Small, slightly entrenched stream channels become less distinct as the slope of the soil decreases to 1 or 2 percent. They form an indefinite pattern or braided stream channels, which are very shallow and have coarser debris deposited in them. In a typical profile, the surface layer is olive gray (5Y 4/2) when moist, calcareous gravelly sand about 10 inches thick. It is underlain by olive gray (5Y 4/2) when moist, course sand about 50 inches thick. About 8 percent of this mapping unit is included areas of Riverwash, 7 percent Carsitas cobbly sand, and 5 percent Myoma sand. Also included are some small areas of soils that have a stony sand and gravelly fine sand surface layer and areas of fine sand containing silt lenses in the upper 10 inches, which are in old oxbow channels of the Whitewater River and extend from Rawson Road to Happy Point. Runoff is slow. The erosion hazard is moderate. The hazard of soil blowing is slight. The available water capacity is 2 to 4 inches. This soil is used for watershed, wildlife habitat, recreation, and homesites. Citrus and grapes are grown where irrigation water is available.

Carsitas cobbly sand, 2 to 9 percent slopes (ChC): This gently sloping to moderately sloping soil is located on alluvial fans, valley fill, and remnants of dissected alluvial fans along the east, north and west edges of the Coachella Valley. The soils has a profile similar to the one described as representative of the series,

Interstate 10 / Avenue 50 Interchange Project 25 Project Setting

but cobles and some stones cover 1 to 3 percent of the surface. The Carsitas series consists of excessively drained soils with parent material consisting of gravelly alluvium derived from granite. These soils are found on alluvial fans, with an elevation for this map unit at 800 feet. Mean annual precipitation is 4 inches. The mean annual air temperature is 72 to 73 degrees F with a frost-free period of 300 days. In a typical profile 0 to 10 inches is cobbly sand and 10 to 60 inches is gravelly sand. A representative profile of the Carsitas gravelly sand 0 to 10 inches olive gray (5Y 4/2) and 10 to 60 inches olive gray (5Y 4/2) when moist; satisfied; single grain; loose, nonsticky and nonplastic; few coarse roots and very few fine roots; common fine interstitial pores; slightly effervescent, and moderately alkaline. The depth to the restrictive feature is more than 80 inches and a depth to water table more than 80 inches. This soil drainage class is excessively drained with no flooding or ponding frequency as identified in the soil survey. The available water capacity is very low (about 3.0 inches). The map unit composition consists of minor components of Riverwash (4%), Carrizo (4%), Chuckawalla (4%), and other unnamed soils (3%). Some small entrenched stream channels form a lacy, shallow braided stream channel that starts where the primary channel is choked with coarse debris and spills out across the soils surface until it concentrates to form a new channel. Runoff is rapid and the erosion hazard is moderate.

According to the Soil Survey, the project site has a low potential to have hydric soil characteristics.

4.6 HYDRIC SOILS LIST OF CALIFORNIA

RBF Baker reviewed the Hydric Soils List of California, provided by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, in an effort to verify whether or not on-site soils are considered to be hydric. It should be noted that lists of hydric soils along with soil survey maps are good offsite ancillary tools to assist in wetland determinations, but they are not a substitute for on- site investigations. Two of the on-site soils identified in the previous section are listed Hydric Soils List of California. These soils include Carsitas gravelly sand, 0 to 9 percent slopes and Carsitas cobbly sand, 2 to 9 percent slopes.

4.7 NATIONAL WETLANDS INVENTORY

RBF Baker reviewed the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s National Wetland Inventory maps. Typical wetland features were not noted within the study area (refer to Attachment A).

4.8 FLOOD ZONE

RBF Baker searched the Federal Emergency Management Agency website for flood data for the project site. Based on the Flood Insurance Rate Maps No. 06065C2260G and

Interstate 10 / Avenue 50 Interchange Project 26 Project Setting

06065C2300G, the project site is not located within areas subject to flood inundation by the 1% annual chance flood (i.e.100-year flood). Please refer to Attachment A for more information.

Interstate 10 / Avenue 50 Interchange Project 27

Section 5 Site Conditions

RBF Baker regulatory specialists Lauren Mack and Chris Johnson, PWS, visited the project site from approximately 8:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. on April 30, 2013 to verify existing conditions and document potential jurisdictional areas. The temperature was approximately 98°F. No significant rain events had occurred in the 10 days prior to the site visit. RBF Baker encountered no limitations during the site visit. Refer to Exhibits 4a and 4b, On-Site Photographs, for representative photographs taken throughout the project site. Refer to Exhibit 5a and 5b, Jurisdictional Impacts Maps, for the limits of jurisdictional areas onsite.

5.1 VEGETATION

Site conditions were characteristic of the arid west environment and typical of creosote bush scrub habitat. The landscape is comprised predominantly of creosote (Larrea tridentata), but includes other plant species of the desert scrub community such as brittlebush (Encelia farinosa), desert trumpet (Eriogonum inflatum), blue palo verde (Cercidium floridum), ocotillo (Fouquieria splendens), white bursage (Ambrosia dumosa), California croton (Croton californicus), desert lavender (Hyptis emoryi), burrobrush (Ambrosia salsola), sweetbush (Bebbia juncea), indigo bush (Psorothamnus schottii), smoke tree (Psorothamnus spinosus), desert holly (Atriplex hymenelytra), pencil cholla (Opuntia ramosissima), California barrel cactus (Ferocactus cylindraceus) and beavertail cactus (Opuntia basilaris). The vegetation noted above was distributed throughout the project site. The majority of larger tree species, such as blue palo verde and smoke tree were located in association with on-site drainages.

Vegetation within the channels was very sparse and in some cases absent as a result of the characteristic flood magnitude for these environments which produce short duration, high- intensity rainfall and subsequently substantial runoff. Additionally, upland/terrace locations generally exhibited higher densities of vegetation.

5.2 HYDROLOGY

5.2.1 Drainage B

Drainage B is an unnamed, ephemeral drainage feature which crosses project site boundaries in the western portion of the project site. Following significant storm events, surface water run-off is conveyed from the I-10 freeway and surrounding landscape into Drainage B. Flows within Drainage B are conveyed south and off-site via overland sheet flow and underneath the I-10 freeway through two bridges spanning the westbound and eastbound lanes. Drainage B exhibits an earthen streambed characterized by a sandy substrate consisting of fine sediment, cobble and boulders. No surface water was observed within Drainage B; however, evidence of a Corps OHWM and surface hydrology was

Interstate 10 / Avenue 50 Interchange Project 28 View of Drainage C at the southern boundary of the study area.

View of Drainage D at the southern boundary of the study area.

I-10 / AVENUE 50 INTERCHANGE PROJECT JURISDICTIONAL DELINEATION View of Drainage E in the southern portion of the study area. On-Site Photographs 5/13/14 JN 133278-20218 MAS Exhibit 4a

View of Drainage E1 in the central portion of the study area.

View of Drainage F in the central portion of the study area.

I-10 / AVENUE 50 INTERCHANGE PROJECT JURISDICTIONAL DELINEATION View of Drainage G in the central portion of the study area. On-Site Photographs 5/13/14 JN 133278-20218 MAS Exhibit 4b

B1 !"`$

B E1 F G C !"`$ D

E d x m . 7 1 x

1 Legend 1 _ p a M _ l a n No OHWM Present o i t c i d s i r u J

_ 1.69 Ac RWQCB / CDFW Waters (Non-Impacted) 3 _ t l A \ D X 1.18 Ac

M RWQCB / CDFW Waters (Impacted) \ S I G \ 8 7 2

3 0.02 Ac Isolated RWQCB / CDFW Waters (Non-Impacted) 3 1 \ a t a d M \ : 0.21 Ac Isolated RWQCB / CDFW Waters (Impacted) M

N J

5 1 0 2

/ Grading Limits (Study Area) 9 1 / 3

I-10/AVENUE 50 INTERCHANGE PROJECT 0 250 500 1,000 ° Feet Alternative 3 Jurisdictional Impacts Map Source: Eagle Aerial, 2013 Exhibit 5a

B1 !"`$

B E1 F G C !"`$ D

E d x m . 7 1 x

1 Legend 1 _ p a M _ l a n No OHWM Present o i t c i d s i r u J

_ 1.69 Ac RWQCB / CDFW Waters (Non-Impacted) 4 _ t l A \ D X 1.18 Ac

M RWQCB / CDFW Waters (Impacted) \ S I G \ 8 7 2

3 0.02 Ac Isolated RWQCB / CDFW Waters (Non-Impacted) 3 1 \ a t a d M \ : 0.21 Ac Isolated RWQCB / CDFW Waters (Impacted) M

N J

5 1 0 2

/ Grading Limits (Study Area) 8 1 / 3

I-10/AVENUE 50 INTERCHANGE PROJECT 0 250 500 1,000 ° Feet Alternative 4 Jurisdictional Impacts Map Source: Eagle Aerial, 2013 Exhibit 5b

Site Conditions

observed in Drainage B via the following indicators scour; shelving; drift/debris; sediment deposition; and changes in terrestrial vegetation. Within the boundaries of the project site, Drainage B measures approximately 64 linear feet in length and ranges from 4 to 33 feet in width.

Vegetation within the banks of Drainage B included a single blue palo verde, smoke tree, burrobush, and sweetbush. Creosote and desert holly were generally located on the bank slopes of Drainage B. No riparian and/or hydrophytic vegetation was observed within Drainage B. Therefore, soil samples were not warranted.

5.2.2 Drainage B1

Drainage B1 is an unnamed, ephemeral drainage feature located in the western portion of the project site. Drainage B1 is tributary to Drainage B. Following significant storm events, surface water run-off from on-site topography in the western portion of the project site and surrounding landscape is conveyed into Drainage B1 via overland sheet flow. Flows continue southwest into Drainage B and underneath the I-10 freeway. Drainage B1 exhibits an earthen streambed characterized by sand/gravel substrate consisting of fine sediment and cobble. No surface water was observed within Drainage B1; however, evidence of a Corps OHWM and surface hydrology was observed via the following indicators: scour; shelving; substrate distribution; drift/debris; drainage patterns; and changes in terrestrial vegetation. Drainage B1, is not located within the boundaries of the project site.

Vegetation within the channel bed/invert of Drainage B1 included brittlebush, burrobush, sweetbush. Creosote and a single blue palo verde were located along the bank slopes of Drainage B1. No riparian and/or hydrophytic vegetation was observed within Drainage B1. Therefore, soil samples were not warranted.

5.2.3 Drainage C

Drainage C is an unnamed, ephemeral drainage feature which crosses project site boundaries in the southwest portion of the project site. Following significant storm events, surface water run-off is conveyed from the I-10 freeway and surrounding landscape into Drainage C through a 48-inch metal pipe culvert. Flows within Drainage C are conveyed south and offsite through two 48-inch corrugated metal pipe culverts. Drainage C exhibits an earthen streambed characterized by sand/gravel substrate consisting of fine sediment and cobble. No surface water was present within Drainage C; however, evidence of a Corps ordinary high water mark (OHWM) and surface hydrology was observed via the following indicators: scour; drift/debris; substrate distribution; shelving; and changes in vegetation. Within the boundaries of the project site, Drainage C measures approximately 144 linear feet in length and ranges from 8 to 15 feet in width.

Interstate 10 / Avenue 50 Interchange Project 33 Site Conditions

Drainage C is relatively unvegetated; however vegetation exists along the banks and slopes including a single blue palo verde, brittlebush, desert holly, burrobush and sweetbush. No riparian and/or hydrophytic vegetation was observed within Drainage C. Therefore, soil samples were not warranted.

5.2.4 Drainage D

Drainage D is an unnamed, ephemeral drainage feature which crosses project site boundaries in the southwest portion of the project site. Following significant storm events, surface water run-off is conveyed from the I-10 freeway and surrounding landscape into Drainage D through a 48-inch corrugated metal pipe culvert. Flows within Drainage D are conveyed south through two 48-inch corrugated metal pipe culverts and offsite via overland sheet flow. Drainage D exhibits an earthen streambed characterized by heavily compacted substrate consisting of fine sediment, gravel and cobble. No surface water was observed within Drainage D; however, evidence of a Corps OHWM and surface hydrology was observed via the following indicators: scour; shelving; drainage patterns; and changes in terrestrial vegetation. Within the boundaries of the project site, Drainage D measures approximately 504 linear feet in length and 8 to 56 feet in width.

Vegetation within the banks of Drainage D included brittlebush, desert holly, burrobush and sweetbush. No riparian and/or hydrophytic vegetation was observed within Drainage D. Therefore, soil samples were not warranted.

5.2.5 Drainage E

Drainage E is an unnamed, ephemeral drainage feature located in the southern portion of the project site. Following significant storm events, surface water run-off is conveyed from the I-10 freeway and surrounding landscape into Drainage E through a 5-foot pipe culvert. Flows within Drainage E are conveyed south via overland sheet flow into two 48-inch corrugated metal pipe culverts and underneath the original alignment of the I-10 freeway. Flows continue south across the project site via overland sheet flow; however, no OHWM indicators were observed along the southern reach of Drainage E due to transmission losses, evaporation and/or general over land flow. No surface water was observed within Drainage E; however, evidence of a Corps OHWM and surface hydrology was observed in the upper portion of Drainage E via the following indicators: scour; shelving; drift/debris; sediment deposition; and changes in terrestrial vegetation. Within the boundaries of the project site, Drainage E measures approximately 881 linear feet in length and ranges from 5 to 63 feet in width.

Vegetation within the banks of Drainage E included brittlebush, burrobush, and sweetbush. Blue palo verde and creosote were generally located on the bank slopes of Drainage E. No

Interstate 10 / Avenue 50 Interchange Project 34 Site Conditions

riparian and/or hydrophytic vegetation was observed within Drainage E. Therefore, soil samples were not warranted.

5.2.6 Drainage E1

Drainage E1 is an unnamed, ephemeral drainage feature located in the north central portion of the project site. Drainage E1 is tributary to Drainage E. Following significant storm events, surface water run-off from on-site topography in the northern portion of the project site and surrounding landscape is conveyed south into Drainage E1 via over land flow. Flows continue south into a pipe culvert and underneath the I-10 freeway. Drainage E1 exhibits an earthen streambed characterized by a sandy substrate consisting of fine sediment, cobble and boulders. No surface water was observed within Drainage E1; however, evidence of a Corps OHWM and surface hydrology was observed via the following indicators: scour; shelving; substrate distribution; drift/debris; drainage patterns; and changes in terrestrial vegetation. Within the boundaries of the project site, Drainage E1 measures approximately 675 linear feet in length and ranges from 4 to 41 feet in width.

Vegetation within the channel bed/invert of Drainage E1 is relatively devoid of vegetation; however vegetation located along the banks/slopes included brittlebush, burrobush, sweetbush, blue palo verde and creosote. No riparian and/or hydrophytic vegetation was observed within Drainage E1. Therefore, soil samples were not warranted.

5.2.7 Drainage F

Drainage F is an unnamed, ephemeral drainage feature located in the northern portion of the project site. Following significant storm events, surface water run-off from on-site topography in the northern portion of the project site and surrounding landscape is conveyed south into Drainage F via over land flow. Flows continue southwest within Drainage F until redirected and contained by the northern berm of the I-10 freeway. At this location evidence of hydrology ceased and no clear OHWM/streambed indicators were identified. Drainage F is assumed to be isolated because it is not tributary to any downstream waters. Drainage F exhibits an earthen streambed characterized by a sandy substrate consisting of fine sediment, cobble, and boulders. No surface water was observed within Drainage F; however, evidence of a Corps OHWM and surface hydrology was observed in the upper portion of Drainage F via the following indicators: scour; shelving; substrate distribution; drift/debris; drainage patterns; and changes in terrestrial vegetation. Drainage F measures approximately 531 linear feet in length and ranges from 5 to 38 feet in width.

Vegetation within the channel bed/invert of Drainage F is relatively devoid of vegetation; however vegetation located along the banks/slopes of Drainage F included brittlebush, burrobush, and creosote. No riparian and/or hydrophytic vegetation was observed within Drainage F. Therefore, soil samples were not warranted.

Interstate 10 / Avenue 50 Interchange Project 35 Site Conditions

5.2.8 Drainage G

Drainage G is an unnamed, ephemeral drainage feature located in the northeast portion of the project site. Following significant storm events, surface water run-off from on-site topography in the northern portion of the project site and surrounding landscape is conveyed south into Drainage G via over land flow. Drainage G conveys flows south into a flat, sandy floodplain bounded by the berm of the I-10 freeway along the southern edge. At this location evidence of hydrology ceased and no clear OHWM/streambed indicators were identified. Drainage G is assumed to be isolated because it is not tributary to any downstream waters. Drainage G exhibits an earthen streambed characterized by a sandy substrate consisting of fine sediment, cobble, and boulders. No surface water was observed within Drainage G; however, evidence of a Corps OHWM and surface hydrology was observed in the upper portion of Drainage G via the following indicators: scour; shelving; substrate distribution; drift/debris; drainage patterns; and changes in terrestrial vegetation. Drainage G measures approximately 71 linear feet in length and 5 feet in width.

Vegetation within the channel bed/invert of Drainage G is relatively devoid of vegetation; however vegetation located along the banks/slopes of Drainage G included brittlebush, burrobush, and creosote. No riparian and/or hydrophytic vegetation was observed within Drainage G. Therefore, soil samples were not warranted.

5.3 SOILS

The dominant soils located within the project site consisted of Carsitas gravelly sand, 0 to 9 percent slopes (CdC) and Carsitas cobbly sand, 2 to 9 percent slopes (ChC).

On-site soils were found to be consistent with the soils that were identified during the literature review. Soils were excessively drained and primarily consisted of gravelly sand. The active channels were generally shallow and contained coarser debris depositions. As the slopes decreased towards the base of the project site the channels became less entrenched and distinct when compared to the active channels at higher elevations.

Interstate 10 / Avenue 50 Interchange Project 36

Section 6 Findings

This delineation has been prepared for the City of Coachella in order to delineate the Corps, Regional Board, and CDFW jurisdictional authority within the project site. This report presents RBF Baker’s best effort at determining the jurisdictional boundaries using the most up-to-date regulations, written policy, and guidance from the regulatory agencies. However, as with any jurisdictional delineation, only the regulatory agencies can make a final determination of jurisdictional boundaries within a project site/property.

6.1 U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS DETERMINATION

6.1.1 Non-Wetland Determination

Evidence of an OHWM was noted within the boundaries of the project site which included the following indicators: sediment deposition, shelving, drift deposits and destruction/changes of terrestrial vegetation. However, based on the detailed analysis of on- site hydrologic conditions, it was preliminarily determined that the relevant reaches B, B1, C,D, E and E1 have an insubstantial or speculative effect on the chemical, physical or biological significant nexus to the downstream RPW (Whitewater River); and, therefore to the TNW (Salton Sea). Drainages F and G exhibited evidence of an OHWM; however, these drainage features do not exhibit a surface hydrologic connection to any downstream waters and are considered intrastate isolated waters (SWANCC).

Based on the proximity to the TNW of approximately 16.5 miles, average annual rainfall of approximately 2.98 inches, and the general flow dynamics discussed throughout this report a significant nexus finding could not be established or supported; therefore, Corps jurisdictional waters of the U.S. are not present onsite. It should be noted that prior Approved Jurisdictional Determinations downstream have been issued based on the findings above.

Interstate 10 / Avenue 50 Interchange Project 37 Findings

6.1.3 Wetland Determination

As previously noted in Section 2.1, an area must exhibit all three wetland parameters described in the Corps Regional Supplement to be considered a jurisdictional wetland. Based on the results of the site visit, it was determined that no portion of the project site contained all three parameters.

6.2 REGIONAL WATER QUALITY CONTROL BOARD DETERMINATION

As a result of the lack of Corps Jurisdiction, the Regional Board would assume jurisdiction over those surface waters documented during the site visit. Based on the results of the field investigation, a total of approximately 1.39-acre of Regional Board jurisdictional area is located within the project site.

Drainages F and G exhibited evidence of an OHWM; however, these drainage features do not exhibit a surface hydrologic connection to any traditional navigable water (TNW) or tributary to a TNW. Drainage F and Drainage G are intrastate isolated waters (SWANCC) with no apparent interstate or foreign commerce connection which qualify as “Waters of the State” and fall under the regulatory authority of the Regional Board. Based on the results of the site visit, of the 1.39-acre of Regional Board jurisdictional area, Drainages F and G comprise approximately 0.21-acre of isolated waters. Refer to Exhibits 5a and 5b.

6.3 CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND WILDLIFE DETERMINATION

The unnamed drainages located within project boundaries exhibited a bed and bank, and are considered CDFW jurisdictional streambed. Based on the results of the field investigation, a total of approximately 1.39-acre of non-vegetated CDFW jurisdictional streambed is located within the project site. Refer to Exhibits 5a and 5b.

Interstate 10 / Avenue 50 Interchange Project 38

Section 7 Regulatory Approval Process

The following is a summary of the various permits, agreements, and certifications required before construction activities take place within the jurisdictional areas.

7.1 U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS

The Corps regulates discharges of dredged or fill materials into WoUS and wetlands pursuant to Section 404 of the CWA. Prior to the commencement of construction activities (i.e., dredge or fill), a permit will not be required from the Corps Regulatory Division-Los Angeles District Office, since the on-site drainages are not considered WoUS (pending an Approved Jurisdictional Determination from the Corps).

7.2 REGIONAL WATER QUALITY CONTROL BOARD

The Regional Board regulates discharges to surface waters under the Federal CWA and the California Porter-Cologne Water Quality Control Act. The Regional Board’s jurisdiction extends to all waters of the State (including SWANCC and Rapanos conditions) and to all WoUS (including wetlands). The following permit will be required prior to construction should activities occur within jurisdictional waters:

7.2.1 Report of Waste Discharge

The U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling in the SWANCC decision has no bearing on the California Porter-Cologne Act. Thus, since Porter-Cologne was enacted, California always retains authority to regulate discharges of waste into any waters of the State, regardless of whether the Corps has concurrent jurisdiction under Section 404. Since the on-site drainages are determined to display isolated conditions (SWANCC drainages), or do not exhibit a significant nexus to the downstream RPW (Rapanos drainages), a Report of Waste Discharge (ROWD) pursuant to California Water Code Section 13260 would be required from the Regional Board. Section 13260 states that persons discharging or proposing to discharge waste that could affect the quality of the waters of the State, other than into a community sewer system, shall file a ROWD containing information which may be required by the appropriate Regional Board.

All dischargers regulated under waste discharge requirements (WDRs) permits must pay an annual fee. The Regional Board has within 30 days of receipt of the application form and any supplemental documents to notify the applicant whether the application is complete. If the application is incomplete, the Regional Board representative will send the applicant a detailed list of discharge specific information necessary to complete the application process. The completion date of the application is normally the date when all required information,

Interstate 10 / Avenue 50 Interchange Project 39 Regulatory Approval Process

including the fee, is received by the Regional Board. The annual fee is determined by the Regional Board based on an evaluation of proposed discharge.

7.3 CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND WILDLIFE

The on-site channels would be considered jurisdictional streambeds by the CDFW; therefore, the CDFW must be notified prior to activities that alter jurisdictional areas. Upon a formal notification, the CDFW will determine whether the notification package (application) is complete. The CDFW will make this determination within 30 calendar days of receiving the notification package if the application is for a regular agreement (i.e., an agreement for a term of five years or less); however, the 30-day time period does not apply to notifications for long-term agreements (i.e., agreements for a term greater than five years). Once the notification package is deemed complete, CDFW will process a Draft Agreement as described below.

If a SAA is required, the CDFW may require an on-site inspection and a draft agreement. The draft agreement will include measures to protect fish and wildlife resources while conducting the project. For regular agreements, the CDFW will submit a draft agreement to the applicant within 60 calendar days after the notification is deemed complete. The 60-day time period does not apply to notifications for long-term agreements, since these are often large or complex projects.

The applicant then has 30 calendar days to notify CDFW whether the measures in the draft agreement are acceptable. After CDFW receives the signed draft agreement, it will make it final by signing it. The CDFW Application fee associated with the notification package varies and is dependent upon the total cost of the project and type of agreement (i.e., Regular or Long-Term).

7.4 GLOBAL RECOMMENDATIONS

It is highly recommended that the delineation be forwarded to each of the regulatory agencies for their concurrence. The concurrence/receipt would be valid up to 5 years and would solidify findings noted within this report.

Interstate 10 / Avenue 50 Interchange Project 40

Section 8 References

The following resources were utilized during preparation of this Delineation of State and Federal Jurisdictional Waters:

California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Field Guide to Lake and Streambed Alteration Agreements Section 1600-1607 California Fish and Game Code, January 1994.

California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Lake and Streambed Alteration Program. (http://www.dfg.ca.gov/1600/index.html)

Eagle Aerial, Aerial Photograph, 2011.

Faber, Phyllis M., Common Riparian Plants of California, Pickleweed Press 1996.

Faber, Phyllis M., Common Wetland Plants of Coastal California, Pickleweed Press 1996.

Google Earth, Historical Aerials, 1996-2013.

Munsell, Soil Color Charts, 2009 Year Revised/2009 Production.

Natural Resources Conservation Service, Hydric Soils List of California, April 2012. (http://soils.usda.gov/use/hydric/)

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Practices for Documenting Jurisdiction under Section 404 of the CWA, Regional Guidance Letter 07-01, June 5, 2007.

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, A Field Guide to the Identification of the Ordinary High Water Mark in the Arid West Region of the Western United States, August 2008.

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Los Angeles District, Riverside Field Office, Approved Jurisdictional Determination regarding presence/absence of geographic jurisdiction for the La Entrada Specific Plan JD, Coachella, Riverside County, CA, July 19, 2013.

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Distribution of Ordinary High Water Mark Indicators and their Reliability in Identifying the Limits of “Waters of the United States” in the Arid Southwestern Channels, February 2006.

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Final Summary Report: Guidelines for Jurisdictional Determinations for Waters of the United States in the Arid Southwest, June 2001.

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Los Angeles District Regulatory Program. (http://www.spl. usace.army.mil/)

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Minimum Standards for Acceptance of Preliminary Wetland Delineations, November 20, 2001.

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Regional Supplement to the Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual: Arid West Region (Version 2.0), ed. J.S. Wakeley, R. W. Lichvar, and

Interstate 10 / Avenue 50 Interchange Project 41 References

C. V. Nobel. ERDC/EL TR-08-28. Vicksburg, MS: U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center, 2008.

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Special Public Notice: Map and Drawing Standards for the Los Angeles District Regulatory Division, September 2010.

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Updated Datasheet for the Identification of the Ordinary High Water Mark in the Arid West Region of the Western United States, July 2010.

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Wetland Delineation Manual, 1987.

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

U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Federal Emergency Management Agency, National Flood Insurance Program, Flood Insurance Rate Map Note Available.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Department of Habitat and Resource Conservation, Wetland Geodatabase. (http://wetlandsfws.er.usgs.gov/NWI/index.html)

U.S. Geological Survey, 7.5 Minute Series Topographic Quadrangle, Cathedral City, California, 1958, photorevised 1981.

Western Regional Climate Center, Palm Springs, California. (http://www.wrcc.dri.edu/cgi-bin/cliMAIN.pl?caplms+sca)

Interstate 10 / Avenue 50 Interchange Project 42 Attachment A Documentation

United States A product of the National Custom Soil Resource Department of Cooperative Soil Survey, Agriculture a joint effort of the United Report for States Department of Agriculture and other Colorado Desert Area, Federal agencies, State Natural agencies including the California; and Riverside Resources Agricultural Experiment Conservation Stations, and local County, Coachella Valley Service participants Area, California I-10/Avenue 50

April 24, 2013 Preface

Soil surveys contain information that affects land use planning in survey areas. They highlight soil limitations that affect various land uses and provide information about the properties of the soils in the survey areas. Soil surveys are designed for many different users, including farmers, ranchers, foresters, agronomists, urban planners, community officials, engineers, developers, builders, and home buyers. Also, conservationists, teachers, students, and specialists in recreation, waste disposal, and pollution control can use the surveys to help them understand, protect, or enhance the environment. Various land use regulations of Federal, State, and local governments may impose special restrictions on land use or land treatment. Soil surveys identify soil properties that are used in making various land use or land treatment decisions. The information is intended to help the land users identify and reduce the effects of soil limitations on various land uses. The landowner or user is responsible for identifying and complying with existing laws and regulations. Although soil survey information can be used for general farm, local, and wider area planning, onsite investigation is needed to supplement this information in some cases. Examples include soil quality assessments (http://soils.usda.gov/sqi/) and certain conservation and engineering applications. For more detailed information, contact your local USDA Service Center (http://offices.sc.egov.usda.gov/locator/app? agency=nrcs) or your NRCS State Soil Scientist (http://soils.usda.gov/contact/ state_offices/). Great differences in soil properties can occur within short distances. Some soils are seasonally wet or subject to flooding. Some are too unstable to be used as a foundation for buildings or roads. Clayey or wet soils are poorly suited to use as septic tank absorption fields. A high water table makes a soil poorly suited to basements or underground installations. The National Cooperative Soil Survey is a joint effort of the United States Department of Agriculture and other Federal agencies, State agencies including the Agricultural Experiment Stations, and local agencies. The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) has leadership for the Federal part of the National Cooperative Soil Survey. Information about soils is updated periodically. Updated information is available through the NRCS Soil Data Mart Web site or the NRCS Web Soil Survey. The Soil Data Mart is the data storage site for the official soil survey information. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in all its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, and where applicable, sex, marital status, familial status, parental status, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, political beliefs, reprisal, or because all or a part of an individual's income is derived from any public assistance program. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all programs.) Persons with disabilities who require alternative means

2 for communication of program information (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should contact USDA's TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TDD). To file a complaint of discrimination, write to USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20250-9410 or call (800) 795-3272 (voice) or (202) 720-6382 (TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

3 Contents

Preface...... 2 Soil Map...... 5 Soil Map...... 6 Legend...... 7 Map Unit Legend...... 8 Map Unit Descriptions...... 8 Colorado Desert Area, California...... 10 NOTCOM—No Digital Data Available...... 10 Riverside County, Coachella Valley Area, California...... 11 BA—Badland...... 11 CdC—Carsitas gravelly sand, 0 to 9 percent slopes...... 11 ChC—Carsitas cobbly sand, 2 to 9 percent slopes...... 12 References...... 15

4 Soil Map

The soil map section includes the soil map for the defined area of interest, a list of soil map units on the map and extent of each map unit, and cartographic symbols displayed on the map. Also presented are various metadata about data used to produce the map, and a description of each soil map unit.

5 Custom Soil Resource Report Soil Map 116° 6' 0'' 116° 6' 116° 7' 46'' 116° 7'

580800 581100 581400 581700 582000 582300 582600 582900 583200 33° 42' 34'' 33° 42' 33'' 3730200 3730200 3729900 3729900 3729600 3729600

BA NOTCOM

CdC

3729300 BA 3729300

ChC BA

BA 3729000 3729000 3728700 3728700

33° 41' 34'' 33° 41' 34'' 580800 581100 581400 581700 582000 582300 582600 582900 583200

Map Scale: 1:13,100 if printed on A size (8.5" x 11") sheet. Meters 116° 6' 0'' 116° 6'

116° 7' 47'' 116° 7' 0 150 300 600 900 Feet ± 0 500 1,000 2,000 3,000 Custom Soil Resource Report

MAP LEGEND MAP INFORMATION

Area of Interest (AOI) Very Stony Spot Map Scale: 1:13,100 if printed on A size (8.5" × 11") sheet. Area of Interest (AOI) Wet Spot The soil surveys that comprise your AOI were mapped at 1:24,000. Soils Other Soil Map Units Special Line Features Please rely on the bar scale on each map sheet for accurate map Special Point Features measurements. Gully Blowout Short Steep Slope Source of Map: Natural Resources Conservation Service Borrow Pit Other Web Soil Survey URL: http://websoilsurvey.nrcs.usda.gov Clay Spot Coordinate System: UTM Zone 11N NAD83 Political Features Closed Depression Cities This product is generated from the USDA-NRCS certified data as of Gravel Pit Water Features the version date(s) listed below. Gravelly Spot Streams and Canals Soil Survey Area: Colorado Desert Area, California Landfill Transportation Survey Area Data: Version 2, Jun 1, 2012 Rails Lava Flow Interstate Highways Soil Survey Area: Riverside County, Coachella Valley Area, Marsh or swamp California US Routes Mine or Quarry Survey Area Data: Version 5, Jun 1, 2012 Major Roads Miscellaneous Water Your area of interest (AOI) includes more than one soil survey area. Local Roads Perennial Water These survey areas may have been mapped at different scales, with a different land use in mind, at different times, or at different levels Rock Outcrop of detail. This may result in map unit symbols, soil properties, and Saline Spot interpretations that do not completely agree across soil survey area boundaries. Sandy Spot

Severely Eroded Spot Date(s) aerial images were photographed: 5/31/2005

Sinkhole The orthophoto or other base map on which the soil lines were Slide or Slip compiled and digitized probably differs from the background imagery displayed on these maps. As a result, some minor shifting Sodic Spot of map unit boundaries may be evident. Spoil Area

Stony Spot Custom Soil Resource Report

Map Unit Legend

Colorado Desert Area, California (CA803)

Map Unit Symbol Map Unit Name Acres in AOI Percent of AOI NOTCOM No Digital Data Available 20.6 8.7% Subtotals for Soil Survey Area 20.6 8.7% Totals for Area of Interest 235.3 100.0%

Riverside County, Coachella Valley Area, California (CA680)

Map Unit Symbol Map Unit Name Acres in AOI Percent of AOI BA Badland 129.5 55.0% CdC Carsitas gravelly sand, 0 to 9 percent slopes 59.4 25.2% ChC Carsitas cobbly sand, 2 to 9 percent slopes 25.8 11.0% Subtotals for Soil Survey Area 214.8 91.3% Totals for Area of Interest 235.3 100.0%

Map Unit Descriptions

The map units delineated on the detailed soil maps in a soil survey represent the soils or miscellaneous areas in the survey area. The map unit descriptions, along with the maps, can be used to determine the composition and properties of a unit. A map unit delineation on a soil map represents an area dominated by one or more major kinds of soil or miscellaneous areas. A map unit is identified and named according to the taxonomic classification of the dominant soils. Within a taxonomic class there are precisely defined limits for the properties of the soils. On the landscape, however, the soils are natural phenomena, and they have the characteristic variability of all natural phenomena. Thus, the range of some observed properties may extend beyond the limits defined for a taxonomic class. Areas of soils of a single taxonomic class rarely, if ever, can be mapped without including areas of other taxonomic classes. Consequently, every map unit is made up of the soils or miscellaneous areas for which it is named and some minor components that belong to taxonomic classes other than those of the major soils. Most minor soils have properties similar to those of the dominant soil or soils in the map unit, and thus they do not affect use and management. These are called noncontrasting, or similar, components. They may or may not be mentioned in a particular map unit description. Other minor components, however, have properties and behavioral characteristics divergent enough to affect use or to require different management. These are called contrasting, or dissimilar, components. They generally are in small areas and could not be mapped separately because of the scale used. Some small areas of strongly contrasting soils or miscellaneous areas are identified by a special symbol on the maps. If included in the database for a given area, the contrasting minor components are identified in the map unit descriptions along with some characteristics of each. A few areas of minor components may not have been observed, and consequently they are not mentioned in the descriptions, especially

8 Custom Soil Resource Report

where the pattern was so complex that it was impractical to make enough observations to identify all the soils and miscellaneous areas on the landscape. The presence of minor components in a map unit in no way diminishes the usefulness or accuracy of the data. The objective of mapping is not to delineate pure taxonomic classes but rather to separate the landscape into landforms or landform segments that have similar use and management requirements. The delineation of such segments on the map provides sufficient information for the development of resource plans. If intensive use of small areas is planned, however, onsite investigation is needed to define and locate the soils and miscellaneous areas. An identifying symbol precedes the map unit name in the map unit descriptions. Each description includes general facts about the unit and gives important soil properties and qualities. Soils that have profiles that are almost alike make up a soil series. Except for differences in texture of the surface layer, all the soils of a series have major horizons that are similar in composition, thickness, and arrangement. Soils of one series can differ in texture of the surface layer, slope, stoniness, salinity, degree of erosion, and other characteristics that affect their use. On the basis of such differences, a soil series is divided into soil phases. Most of the areas shown on the detailed soil maps are phases of soil series. The name of a soil phase commonly indicates a feature that affects use or management. For example, Alpha silt loam, 0 to 2 percent slopes, is a phase of the Alpha series. Some map units are made up of two or more major soils or miscellaneous areas. These map units are complexes, associations, or undifferentiated groups. A complex consists of two or more soils or miscellaneous areas in such an intricate pattern or in such small areas that they cannot be shown separately on the maps. The pattern and proportion of the soils or miscellaneous areas are somewhat similar in all areas. Alpha-Beta complex, 0 to 6 percent slopes, is an example. An association is made up of two or more geographically associated soils or miscellaneous areas that are shown as one unit on the maps. Because of present or anticipated uses of the map units in the survey area, it was not considered practical or necessary to map the soils or miscellaneous areas separately. The pattern and relative proportion of the soils or miscellaneous areas are somewhat similar. Alpha- Beta association, 0 to 2 percent slopes, is an example. An undifferentiated group is made up of two or more soils or miscellaneous areas that could be mapped individually but are mapped as one unit because similar interpretations can be made for use and management. The pattern and proportion of the soils or miscellaneous areas in a mapped area are not uniform. An area can be made up of only one of the major soils or miscellaneous areas, or it can be made up of all of them. Alpha and Beta soils, 0 to 2 percent slopes, is an example. Some surveys include miscellaneous areas. Such areas have little or no soil material and support little or no vegetation. Rock outcrop is an example.

9 Custom Soil Resource Report

Colorado Desert Area, California

NOTCOM—No Digital Data Available

Minor Components Notcom Percent of map unit: 100 percent

10 Custom Soil Resource Report

Riverside County, Coachella Valley Area, California

BA—Badland

Map Unit Setting Landscape: Uplands

Map Unit Composition Badland: 85 percent Minor components: 15 percent

Description of Badland Setting Down-slope shape: Concave Across-slope shape: Concave Parent material: Consolidated sandy alluvium Properties and qualities Slope: 50 to 75 percent Depth to restrictive feature: 0 to 3 inches to paralithic bedrock Drainage class: Excessively drained Capacity of the most limiting layer to transmit water (Ksat): Moderately high (0.20 to 0.57 in/hr) Interpretive groups Farmland classification: Not prime farmland Land capability (nonirrigated): 8 Typical profile 0 to 60 inches: Weathered bedrock

Minor Components Carsitas Percent of map unit: 10 percent Riverwash Percent of map unit: 5 percent

CdC—Carsitas gravelly sand, 0 to 9 percent slopes

Map Unit Setting Elevation: 800 feet Mean annual precipitation: 4 inches Mean annual air temperature: 72 to 73 degrees F Frost-free period: 275 to 325 days

Map Unit Composition Carsitas and similar soils: 85 percent Minor components: 15 percent

11 Custom Soil Resource Report

Description of Carsitas Setting Landform: Alluvial fans Landform position (two-dimensional): Footslope Landform position (three-dimensional): Tread Down-slope shape: Linear Across-slope shape: Linear Parent material: Gravelly alluvium derived from granite Properties and qualities Slope: 0 to 9 percent Depth to restrictive feature: More than 80 inches Drainage class: Excessively drained Capacity of the most limiting layer to transmit water (Ksat): High to very high (5.95 to 19.98 in/hr) Depth to water table: More than 80 inches Frequency of flooding: None Frequency of ponding: None Calcium carbonate, maximum content: 1 percent Maximum salinity: Nonsaline to very slightly saline (0.0 to 4.0 mmhos/cm) Available water capacity: Very low (about 3.0 inches) Interpretive groups Farmland classification: Not prime farmland Land capability classification (irrigated): 4s Land capability (nonirrigated): 7e Hydrologic Soil Group: A Typical profile 0 to 10 inches: Gravelly sand 10 to 60 inches: Gravelly sand

Minor Components Riverwash Percent of map unit: 4 percent Landform: Channels Carsitas Percent of map unit: 4 percent Myoma Percent of map unit: 4 percent Unnamed, stony or gravelly Percent of map unit: 3 percent

ChC—Carsitas cobbly sand, 2 to 9 percent slopes

Map Unit Setting Elevation: 800 feet

12 Custom Soil Resource Report

Mean annual precipitation: 4 inches Mean annual air temperature: 72 to 73 degrees F Frost-free period: 300 days

Map Unit Composition Carsitas and similar soils: 85 percent Minor components: 15 percent

Description of Carsitas Setting Landform: Alluvial fans Landform position (two-dimensional): Summit Landform position (three-dimensional): Interfluve Down-slope shape: Linear Across-slope shape: Linear Parent material: Gravelly alluvium derived from granite Properties and qualities Slope: 2 to 9 percent Depth to restrictive feature: More than 80 inches Drainage class: Excessively drained Capacity of the most limiting layer to transmit water (Ksat): High to very high (5.95 to 19.98 in/hr) Depth to water table: More than 80 inches Frequency of flooding: None Frequency of ponding: None Calcium carbonate, maximum content: 1 percent Maximum salinity: Nonsaline to very slightly saline (0.0 to 4.0 mmhos/cm) Available water capacity: Very low (about 3.0 inches) Interpretive groups Farmland classification: Not prime farmland Land capability classification (irrigated): 6s Land capability (nonirrigated): 7e Hydrologic Soil Group: A Typical profile 0 to 10 inches: Cobbly sand 10 to 60 inches: Gravelly sand

Minor Components Riverwash Percent of map unit: 4 percent Landform: Channels Carrizo Percent of map unit: 4 percent Chuckawalla Percent of map unit: 4 percent Unnamed Percent of map unit: 3 percent

13 Custom Soil Resource Report

14 References

American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO). 2004. Standard specifications for transportation materials and methods of sampling and testing. 24th edition. American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM). 2005. Standard classification of soils for engineering purposes. ASTM Standard D2487-00. Cowardin, L.M., V. Carter, F.C. Golet, and E.T. LaRoe. 1979. Classification of wetlands and deep-water habitats of the United States. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service FWS/OBS-79/31. Federal Register. July 13, 1994. Changes in hydric soils of the United States. Federal Register. September 18, 2002. Hydric soils of the United States. Hurt, G.W., and L.M. Vasilas, editors. Version 6.0, 2006. Field indicators of hydric soils in the United States. National Research Council. 1995. Wetlands: Characteristics and boundaries. Soil Survey Division Staff. 1993. Soil survey manual. Soil Conservation Service. U.S. Department of Agriculture Handbook 18. http://soils.usda.gov/ Soil Survey Staff. 1999. Soil taxonomy: A basic system of soil classification for making and interpreting soil surveys. 2nd edition. Natural Resources Conservation Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture Handbook 436. http://soils.usda.gov/ Soil Survey Staff. 2006. Keys to soil taxonomy. 10th edition. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service. http://soils.usda.gov/ Tiner, R.W., Jr. 1985. Wetlands of Delaware. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control, Wetlands Section. United States Army Corps of Engineers, Environmental Laboratory. 1987. Corps of Engineers wetlands delineation manual. Waterways Experiment Station Technical Report Y-87-1. United States Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service. National forestry manual. http://soils.usda.gov/ United States Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service. National range and pasture handbook. http://www.glti.nrcs.usda.gov/ United States Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service. National soil survey handbook, title 430-VI. http://soils.usda.gov/ United States Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service. 2006. Land resource regions and major land resource areas of the United States, the Caribbean, and the Pacific Basin. U.S. Department of Agriculture Handbook 296. http://soils.usda.gov/

15 Custom Soil Resource Report

United States Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation Service. 1961. Land capability classification. U.S. Department of Agriculture Handbook 210.

16 I-10/Avenue 50

Apr 22, 2013

This map is for general reference only. The US Fish and Wildlife Service is not responsible for the accuracy or currentness of the base data shown on this map. All wetlands related data should be used in accordance with the layer metadata found on the Wetlands Mapper web site. User Remarks:

Appendix J Site Photographs

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 143 Appendix J Site Photographs

I-10/Avenue 50 New Interchange Project 144 View of desert annual grassland vegetation in the northern portion of the BSA, facing south towards I-10.

View of white bursage scrub north of I-10, facing north.

Site Photographs I-10/Avenue 50, Riverside County, California PM 62.3 to PM 63.7 D8-RIV-10 EA 08-45210 Appendix J-1

View of cheesebush scrub south of the I-10, facing south.

View of creosote bush scrub in a drainage north of I-10, facing north.

Site Photographs I-10/Avenue 50, Riverside County, California PM 62.3 to PM 63.7 D8-RIV-10 EA 08-45210 Appendix J-2

View of creosote bush-white bur sage scrub south of I-10, facing south.

View of Mojave desert wash scrub in a drainage north of I-10, facing north.

Site Photographs I-10/Avenue 50, Riverside County, California PM 62.3 to PM 63.7 D8-RIV-10 EA 08-45210 Appendix J-3

View of Mojave desert wash scrub along Smokey Gulch south of I-10, facing north.

Overview of cheesebush scrub and Mojave desert wash scrub along Smokey Gulch north of I-10, facing south. Wand holdback (unique stand) is in the foreground.

Site Photographs I-10/Avenue 50, Riverside County, California PM 62.3 to PM 63.7 D8-RIV-10 EA 08-45210 Appendix J-4

View of wand holdback (unique stand) in the eastern portion of the BSA north of I-10, facing west.

View of an area disturbed by off-road vehicle activity south of I-10, facing south.

Site Photographs I-10/Avenue 50, Riverside County, California PM 62.3 to PM 63.7 D8-RIV-10 EA 08-45210 Appendix J-5