Stony Creek and Montecito Sequoia Resorts Biological Assessment and Biological Evaluation for Sequoia National Forest Hume Lake Ranger District Improvement and Expansion Projects within Giant Sequoia National Monument Tulare County, California

December 5, 2019

Prepared for: United States Forest Service Sequoia National Forest Hume Lake District District Ranger: Jeremy Dorsey 35860 East Kings Canyon Road Dunlap, CA 93621

Prepared by: Michelle McKenzie and Prairie Moore Natural Resources Management Corporation 1434 Third Street Eureka, CA 95501

Table of Contents

I. Summary of Findings and Conclusions ...... 1 II. Introduction, Background, and Project Understanding ...... 2 Project Locations ...... 3 Project Descriptions ...... 10 Biological Descriptions ...... 16 III. Methods ...... 17 Pre-Field Review ...... 17 Field Survey ...... 24 IV. Results and Discussion ...... 25 Wildlife: Summary of Findings ...... 26 Survey Results ...... 26 Discussion ...... 26 Species Accounts ...... 44 Plant: Summary of Findings ...... 49 Survey Results ...... 49 Discussion ...... 49 Cumulative Effects...... 57 Management Recommendations ...... 57 V. References Cited ...... 58 Appendix A. Photographs from Site Visit Appendix B. USFWS Consultation T&E Species Lists for Project Areas Appendix C. USFWS Scoping Letter Response Appendix D. Hume Lake Ranger District Amphibian Survey, August 19, 2019

Figures

Figure 1. Vicinity of Montecito Sequoia and Stony Creek Resorts, Tulare County, CA ...... 5 Figure 2. Project map for Montecito Sequoia Resort (Orthographic) ...... 6 Figure 3. Project map for Montecito Sequoia Resort (Topographic) ...... 7 Figure 4. Project map for Stony Creek Resort (Orthographic) ...... 8 Figure 5. Project map for Stony Creek Resort (Topographic) ...... 9 Figure 6a,b. Site plan for Montecito Sequoia Resort (proposed buildings dark boxes) ...... 12 Figure 7. Site plan for Stony Creek Resort (proposed building south, center) ...... 15 Figure 8. The CNDDB records for wildlife, plants, and plant communities within a 1-mile radius of Montecito Sequoia Resort ...... 22 Figure 9. The CNDDB records for wildlife, plants, and plant communities within a 1-mile radius of Stony Creek Resort ...... 23 Figure 10. USFWS National Wetland Inventory polygons, Montecito Sequoia Resort ...... 32

Tables

Table 1. CNDDB list of potential special status wildlife in the Muir Grove nine-quad area and Forest Service Sensitive (FSS) species listed for Sequoia National Forest ...... 18 Table 2. CNDDB California spotted owl detections for ACs nearest the project areas ...... 20 Table 3. CNPS Rare Plant Rank (CNPR) 1-4 plants and CNDDB (SRANK) special status plants in the Muir Grove nine-quad area ...... 24 Table 4. Special status wildlife species, species potentially present in the project area, and potential impacts ...... 36 Table 5. Wildlife species detected at Montecito Sequoia and Stony Creek Resorts during site visit October 16, 2018 ...... 45 Table 6. Summary of Findings for Special Status Plant Species ...... 53 I. Summary of Findings and Conclusions

The projects at Montecito Sequoia and Stony Creek Resorts, located in Sequoia National Forest and Giant Sequoia National Monument (Figure 1) involve improving aging infrastructure, updating guest services and expanding accommodations. Montecito Sequoia projects include the installation of an outdoor kitchen facility, gazebo, and associated bathhouse, as well as 2 new four-plex cabins, the rebuilding of Marmot Lodge due to disrepair, and the rebuilding of Lakeside Fair cabin that was destroyed by gas leak this past winter (Figures 2 and 3). Stony Creek projects include the construction of a bathhouse within the existing footprint of the parking lot, and the removal of a landscape container from the front of the lodge to be replaced by an ADA compliant access ramp (Figures 4 and 5).

The resorts operate under a special use permit authorized by the Hume Lake Ranger District in Tulare County, California. The project footprints for both locations are within the special use permit boundary for the existing resorts. Located on the General’s Highway between the popular destinations of Grant Grove in Kings Canyon National Park and Giant Forest in Sequoia National Park, these projects are aimed at improving visitors experience at the year-round resort and summer family camp, Montecito Sequoia, and the seasonal Stony Creek Resort.

This Biological Assessment reviewed the projects at Montecito Sequoia and Stony Creek Resorts to determine to what extent wildlife species currently listed, proposed for listing, or for whom habitat was present, would be affected. The projects were also reviewed for the potential to impact sensitive plant species and or natural communities. See Table 1 for a list of reviewed wildlife species, and Table 3 for plant species. No special status wildlife species were detected during the site visit. During the October visit, one desiccated and one predated unidentified frog species were found in the wetland adjacent to Lake Homavalo, and appeared to be the same species based on size alone. According to the USFWS, Lake Homavalo is in the range of the northern mountain yellow-legged frog (Rana muscosa), a Federally Endangered species, although only historic records exist for this species in the area. The Hume Ranger District Biologist suggested these deceased frogs were likely non- native American bullfrog (Lithobates catesbeianus); a subsequent survey conducted by the biologist confirmed their continued persistence at Lake Homavalo (Appendix D). Special status and additional species of interest, and the potential for project impacts, are presented in Table 4. Species are considered on a case-by-case basis as to the project’s affect based on considerations such as home range, habitat and sensitivity to disturbance. None of these species are expected to experience direct or indirect effects. All species detected during the survey are listed in Table 5. Species potentially affected by these projects are discussed in Species Accounts.

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No special status plants species were observed during the site visit. Standards and guidelines within the Giant Sequoia National Monument (GSNM) Management Plan requires that special aquatic features such as lakes, wet meadows and wetlands receive a protective buffer of 300 feet from the edge of the feature or riparian vegetation, whichever is greater (USDA 2012). There is wetland and riparian vegetation present on the north and northwest shores of Lake Homavalo, and all activities related to improvement projects at Montecito Sequoia Resort may need to be outside of this protective buffer.

II. Introduction, Background, and Project Understanding

The proposed improvement and expansion projects at Stony Creek and Montecito Sequoia Resorts are within the Giant Sequoia National Monument (GSNM). The GSNM (Monument) Management Plan (USDA 2012) provides overall strategic guidance for managing the Monument, by providing for the protection of ‘the objects of interest’ while encouraging continued public and recreation access and use consistent with the purposes of the Monument. The Monument Plan consists of four interrelated parts that work together to facilitate the use of adaptive management: Vision, Strategy, Design Criteria and Transportation Plan. Specifically, Part 3, Design Criteria, contains the guidance, laws and regulations, standards and guidelines (36 CFR 219.11(c) and 219.13 through 219.29), and monitoring and evaluation procedures to be used during site-specific project planning and implementation. Standards and guidelines are requirements that act as thresholds or constraints for management activities or practices to ensure the protection of resources.

Standards and guidelines are divided by resources, including Wildlife and Plant Habitat. The Wildlife Habitat resource is subdivided into Monument-wide, Old Forest Emphasis Area, California Spotted Owl PACs (Protected Activity Centers) and HRCAs (Home Range Core Areas), Northern Goshawk PACs, Great Gray Owl PACs, Southern Sierra Fisher Conservation Area/Furbearer Den Sites, Marten Den Sites and Willow Flycatcher Sites. The standards and guidelines associated with these species primarily deal with activities involving tree and vegetation management or guidelines for conditions requiring wildlife surveys. All applicable standards and guidelines are addressed in this report for the above species for whom habitat potentially exists within vicinity of the project areas.

Additional wildlife species with potential to occur in the vicinity were determined by consulting with the US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), querying the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) database for listed species within range of the project areas, reviewing the Sequoia National Forest (SNF) plan for Forest Service Sensitive (FSS) species, and by reviewing the project areas using satellite imagery to determine presence of potential habitat for listed species. Listed species include all those designated by federal and state wildlife authorities as

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being endangered, threatened, candidate for endangered or threatened, a species of special concern or on a watch list. These species are hereafter referred to as special status species.

Plants have standard and guidelines that apply monument-wide, and include Plant Habitat and Invasive Nonnative Species. For native plants, these include minimizing or eliminating direct and indirect effects on threatened, endangered, proposed, and sensitive (TEPS) plants through management, avoiding effects to hydrologic processes and conducting field surveys for TEPS plant species early enough in the planning process such that these species are conserved. Standards and guidelines for invasive nonnative species primarily focus on the education, prevention and control of weed species.

Additional standards and guidelines are provided for Hydrological Resources, which includes riparian and wetland habitats. Riparian Conservation Areas (RCAs) are required for streams and other Special Aquatic Features such as lakes, wet meadows, bogs, fens, wetlands, vernal pools and springs. These RCAs are essentially buffer’s with prescribed widths dependent on the type of stream or feature. It was determined the habitat north and northwest of Lake Homavalo includes wet meadow, wetlands and spring(s). Due to the high levels of historic disturbance, it is unclear if these areas require a buffer of 300 feet from the edge of the wetland vegetation.

The purpose of this Biological Assessment is to review the projects within GSNM in sufficient detail to evaluate any potential habitat for special status animal or plant species, and to determine potential impacts from the proposed projects. In addition, these areas were surveyed in order to describe any terrestrial and aquatic animals or plants occurring in and around the project areas. Species with potential habitat present, or whose presence was not confirmed but potentially occur in the general area, are considered in further detail and include fisher, Sierra marten, great gray owl and northern goshawk. See Table 1 for a list of reviewed wildlife species.

This Report also reviews potential impacts to any plant species that are listed, candidates for listing, or proposed for listing under the Endangered Species Act (ESA), California ESA (CESA) and the California Native Plant Protection Act and or meet the definition of rare or endangered under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), hereinafter referred to as special status plants. Plant species for which habitat is present within the vicinity of the project area are listed in Table 3.

Project Locations Montecito Sequoia and Stony Creek Resorts are approximately 4 miles apart on the General’s Highway (State Highway 198) between Grant Grove in Kings Canyon National Park and Giant Forest in Sequoia National Park (Figure 1). The project footprints for both locations are within the special use permit boundary for the existing resorts.

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The legal description for the Montecito Sequoia Resort location is within the USGS 7.5' quadrangle Muir Grove T14S, R29E, Section 19, MDB&M. Approximate elevation of the project area is 7,400 feet. The site is accessed from General’s Highway approximately 5 miles southeast of the junction with State Highway 180.

The legal description for the Stony Creek Resort location is within the USGS 7.5' quadrangle Muir Grove T14S, R29E, Section 33, MDB&M. Approximate elevation of the project area is 6,500 feet. This site is accessed from General’s Highway, 4.3 miles south of Montecito Sequoia.

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Figure 1. Vicinity of Montecito Sequoia and Stony Creek Resorts, Tulare County, CA

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Figure 2. Project map for Montecito Sequoia Resort (Satellite imagery)

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Figure 3. Project map for Montecito Sequoia Resort (Topographic)

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Figure 4. Project map for Stony Creek Resort (Satellite imagery)

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Figure 5. Project map for Stony Creek Resort (Topographic)

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Project Descriptions Located on the General’s Highway between the popular destinations of Grant Grove in Kings Canyon National Park and Giant Forest in Sequoia National Park, the proposed updates and expansion of services at the resorts are to better accommodate visitors to the GSNM and National Parks. Attracting visitors to enjoy the resorts and surrounding natural areas are of primary importance to the management and the focus of these improvement projects at the year-round resort and summer family camp, Montecito Sequoia, and the seasonal Stony Creek Resort.

Montecito Sequoia Resort Located on 42 acres within the special use permit area and in constant operation since the late 1950s, this resort is one of three recreational sites with overnight accommodation in GSNM. The ability of the resort to keep pace with significantly increased visitation over the decades has been a challenge. The current capacity is approximately 22 rooms in the main lodge, with additional cabins located on the property that either have attached bathroom or a shared bathroom facility, comprising an additional 31 units of accommodations. The total overnight accommodations can support a maximum of 232 visitors and 66 staff members.

Several facilities are proposed for upgrading or expansion, and new facilities proposed for construction, to provide additional overnight accommodation and amenities meant to enhance the visitor’s mountain experience. In 2008, an environmental assessment and decision notice was issued to allow for numerous improvements at Montecito Sequoia. Most of that work was completed, and there is a need to modify a few of the remaining tasks from that project proposal, specifically regarding the four-plex cabin locations.

Proposed projects at Montecito Sequoia include an outdoor kitchen facility with associated gazebo and bathhouse (Figures 2 and 6). The seasonal outdoor kitchen would be a permanent structure located on the southwest side of Lake Homavalo, just south of the existing boat shed used to store recreational equipment (Photos 1-3). All efforts will be made to make this structure bear proof. The kitchen measures 18 feet by 18 feet (324 square feet) and would be located between the proposed gazebo and the replacement bathhouse.

The bathhouse would use existing infrastructure in place from a previously damaged and removed bathhouse, but relocated to a more central location opposite the outdoor kitchen. This newly built facility could also be utilized by guests and visitors recreating at Lake Homavalo, and would include three restroom stalls, three shower stalls, and outdoor shower, two utility sinks and two water heaters. The bathhouse measures 18 feet by 19 feet (342 square feet), and

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the proposed relocation would still allow use of the previous water lines, septic tank and leach field.

The gazebo with proposed deck measures 28 feet by 30 feet (840 square feet) and would extend over Lake Homavalo, with support posts both on land and in the lake. By providing facilities such as an outdoor kitchen and gazebo located immediately adjacent to Lake Homavalo, guests are likely to experience a more relaxed setting to enjoy the hosted ‘beach parties’ that are an essential part of summer resort activities. Because the lake attracts visitors and guest looking to relax or recreate, development of additional facilities would likely encourage more people to make use of the beach area and for prolonged periods of time.

All proposed structures immediately adjacent to Lake Homavalo will be at least 300 feet from the riparian habitat located on the north side of the lake (Photo 4) and the wet area to the northwest.

The proposed relocation and construction of two, four-plex cabins (Figures 2 and 6) are roughly in the same footprint of previously existing cabins (removed in 2011), where there is existing septic, leach field and electricity (Photos 5-7). These two-story cabins, each measuring 26 feet by 50 feet (1,300 square feet), accommodate three visitors upstairs and three downstairs, for an additional six visitors per unit. Currently, this area is vacant with the exception of some minimal landscaping and a single, dying Jeffrey pine that would likely need removed for safety reasons (Photos 8, 9). These new cabins being proposed are in the currently approved Environmental Assessment (NRM 2008), however, the desired location of these cabins has been modified slightly to improve pedestrian flow.

Rebuilding of Marmot Lodge, which is in a state of disrepair, is proposed with a slightly expanded footprint to the east to make it longer, and south to make it wider. This would allow for additional bathrooms and meeting rooms (Figure 6a). Also proposed is the rebuilding of a cabin, Lakeside Fair, in the counselor village that was destroyed by gas leak this past winter, in the exact footprint.

And lastly, in order to preserve and service snow removal equipment, two sheds measuring 25 feet by 50 feet (1,250 square feet) are being proposed. These sheds would be enclosed structures set on a concrete slab floor, with roof and walls supported by four-inch by four-inch posts. One proposed location is next to the current maintenance building, and would be used for service and repair. The other is proposed for the west side of Lake Homavalo, immediately adjacent to a previously existing horse corral, and would be used for storage only (Figure 6b). These roofed, enclosed structures will be wired for lighting and built to accommodate gas heat.

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Figure 6a. Site plan for Montecito Sequoia Resort (proposed buildings dark boxes), with the two lodges, outdoor kitchen, gazebo and bathhouse (open boxes), and Marmot Lodge (solid box) locations shown.

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Figure 6b. Site plan for Montecito Sequoia Resort showing the proposed location of shed structures (proposed sheds are the dark boxes) Biological Assessment Natural Resources Management Corporation 13 Stony Creek and Montecito Sequoia Resorts Improvement Project December 5, 2019

Stony Creek Resort The Stony Creek Resort is located on 4.95 acres within the special use permit area. This facility has historically experienced high use, occupying this site for about 85 years, with the current two- story lodge dating back to 1966. Other buildings on location are a gas station (established in 2003), and staff housing with attached laundry and bathhouse (Photos 10-12).

The 12-unit lodge currently houses two interior bathroom stalls on the ground floor that are accessible to both guests at the lodge and visitors to the resort restaurant and gift shop, as well as an adjacent public bathhouse attached to staff housing that has two washer and dryer units, three toilet stalls, and three shower stalls, which are also available to guests staying in the nearby campground. The interior bathrooms experience long lines, overuse, and flooding almost daily during peak tourist season. For the previous two years the resort has been utilizing portable bathrooms on a trailer and connected to the sewer and water system to accommodate guests. There are two septic tanks (Photos 10, 11) and associated leach fields in place that are pumped annually and manage the current (and expected) use, including the trailered bathrooms.

The proposed project of constructing an additional, separate bathhouse would be located entirely within the existing permit area, at the southern end of the existing paved parking lot (Photos 12, 13). This would include six toilet stalls and six shower stalls, measuring 23 feet by 36 feet (828 square feet) (Figures 4 and 7). The same number of guests are expected to use the new facilities that are currently accommodated by the trailered bathrooms; therefore, traffic and water use are expected to be unchanged by this project. Further, as this bathhouse would be within the footprint of the current parking lot, only hazard trees are expected to be removed, including a group of small trees to the east of the proposed project footprint (one lodgepole pine, two Jeffrey pine, four white fir) with four to eight inch dbh (diameter at breast height); a small group to the west (two Jeffrey pine, one white fir) with a maximum of ten inch dbh; and five additional white fir saplings (Photo 14). Trenching for connecting the bathhouse to the existing water lines, septic tank and leach field would occur directly across the existing parking lot.

The other project under consideration is the construction of a handicap access ramp in the current location of a wooden, landscaping container box. This would require the removal of the container and three trees (two Jeffrey pine, one sequoia), which have outgrown the landscaping container and, given their size, could pose structural damage to the lodge given the snow load potential and proximity to the roof (Photo 15). The container bed would be replaced with an ADA compliant ramp providing improved access to the lodge, restaurant and gift shop.

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Figure 7. Site plan for Stony Creek Resort (proposed building south, center)

Topography and Hydrology The resort areas of Montecito Sequoia and Stony Creek are at approximate elevations of 7,400 feet and 6,400 feet, respectively, with a highly developed network of primary and secondary roads between them. Big Baldy Ridge, approximately 0.4 miles west and peaking at elevations over 8,000 feet, separates the resorts from the extensive forested habitat at General Grant Grove. A couple of miles to the east, nearly equidistant from both lodges, is Jennie Lakes Wilderness, an area primarily above tree line; further east approximately 20 miles is the Great Western Divide with elevations over 11,000 feet. Below this is Sequoia National Park; in all directions outside of national park boundaries are Sequoia National Forest lands (Figure 1).

The headwaters of Woodward Creek begin north and east of Montecito Sequoia Resort approximately 0.2 miles at an elevation near 7,800 feet. It continues flowing south, parallel to the General’s Highway, approximately three miles to the confluence with Stony Creek, where it continues for another mile to the confluence with the North Fork Kaweah. The North Fork Kaweah continues flowing southwest approximately 15 miles though National Park and National Forest lands to join the mainstem Kaweah River near the town of Three Rivers, at an approximate elevation of 850 feet. The mainstem Kaweah River continues approximately four miles

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southwest to the Lake Kaweah reservoir, then flows west for approximately 15 air miles to where it appears to enter canals used for agriculture, just east of Visalia, greater than 160 air miles from the Pacific Ocean.

There are wetland areas north and northwest of Lake Homavalo at Montecito Sequoia. The Army Corp of Engineers has classified the wetland (PEM1B) as a palustrine, emergent wetland with persistent water and seasonal saturation (Figure 10); and the lake (L1UBH) as a lacustrine, limnetic, permanent lake with an unconsolidated bottom (USDI 2019).

At Stony Creek Resort, there appear to be three headwater watercourses that join approximately 500 feet due south of the project area (Figure 5). The western most watercourse is just over 400 feet from the project area. The middle watercourse is Stony Creek and originates in the mountains to the northeast, and the easternmost watercourse originates in the meadow at the campground.

The headwaters of Stony Creek originate northeast of the resort in the Jennie Lakes Wilderness near an elevation of 8,000 feet. Stony Creek continues in a southwesterly direction, to within 500 feet of the project area, for approximately one-half mile to where Woodward Creek enters from the north at an elevation near 6,000 feet, approximately one mile upstream from the confluence of Stony Creek and the North Fork Kaweah River.

Biological Descriptions The projects at Montecito Sequoia and Stony Creek Resorts are within the USDA Ecoregion Section 5K: Southern Sierra Subalpine Forests within the Sierra Nevada Ecoregion Province (Sawyer et al. 2009), and the USFS CALVEG Mapping Zone 4: South Sierran (CALVEG 2004).

Montecito Sequoia Resort This site is located on relatively level slopes with a spring fed manmade lake, Lake Homavalo, that does not drain as it resides on an impervious granite substrate. Overflow is governed by a dam that drains excess water into a sloped ravine located on the east side of the lodge. The forest in the general vicinity of the resort is Sierra mixed conifer, with no sequoia trees present. The area north of the lake is approximately 300 feet of upward sloping land dominated by riparian vegetation, primarily willow (Photos 4, 18, 19); the northwest area is dominated by wetland vegetation. As there is no watercourse present (Figure 3), it is assumed the surrounding topography directs precipitation and melting snow to the wetland area, where it retains moisture well into the dry summer months.

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The wildlife biologist at the Hume Lake Ranger District, SNF, corresponded that Lake Homavalo (aka Montecito Lake) contains both non-native fish and bullfrogs, suggesting that conditions in the lake are inhospitable to native species that have an aquatic component to their life cycle. A previous biological assessment (NRM 2008) reported a substantial bullfrog population during a May 2008 survey, and the stocked, non-native fish species as bluegill and catfish.

Stony Creek Resort This resort area is located on relatively level slopes and include campgrounds and a picnic area in addition to the lodge and related facilities (Figures 1 and 5). The forest in the general vicinity of the resort is Sierra mixed conifer; no sequoia trees are present in this area with the exception of the presumably planted specimen in the landscape container at the front of the lodge (Photo 15).

There are no watercourses in the immediate vicinity of the project site. The wildlife biologist at the Hume Lake Ranger District, SNF, corresponded that CDFW stocks fish in Stony Creek, approximately 500 feet southeast from the project area; it is unclear if the fish are native or non-native species.

III. Methods: Wildlife and Plants

Pre-Field Review Prior to the survey, the CDFW California Natural Diversity Data Base (CNDDB 2019) record of wildlife and plant species occurrences, was queried. These queries are based on the USGS 7.5’ topographic quadrangle (quad) map for which project areas occur, and the surrounding eight topographic maps, resulting in a ‘nine-quad’ search area to account for more wide-ranging wildlife species.

To begin the compilation of a comprehensive target species list for wildlife (Table 1) and plants (Table 3), a query of the nine-quad area around Montecito Sequoia and Stony Creek Resorts was conducted to determine which special status species may occur within the project areas.

Wildlife In addition to the CNDDB wildlife species, US Forest Service (USFS) designated Forest Service Sensitive (FSS) wildlife species are included. This designation is given to species determined to have population viability concerns as identified by the Regional Forester. It is USFS policy to analyze effects to listed (threatened and endangered) species to ensure management activities are not likely to jeopardize the continued existence of these species or result in the destruction or adverse modification of habitat of such species that is determined to be critical (USDA 2012).

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The ESA requires that any action authorized by a federal agency not be likely to jeopardize the continued existence of a listed species, or result in the destruction or adverse modification of habitat of such species that is determined to be critical. Section 7 of the ESA requires consulting USFWS concerning these listed species. To this end, an official species list from the USFWS Environmental Conservation Online System (ECOS) for both resorts was obtained (Appendix B) and those species (*) are included below in Table 1.

Table 1. CNDDB list of potential special status wildlife in the Muir Grove nine-quad area, Forest Service Sensitive (FSS) species for Sequoia National Forest, and USFWS Section 7 consultation species*

Common Name Scientific Name Federal/State Listing California condor* Gymnogyps californianus Federal and State Endangered bald eagle Haliaeetus leucocephalus State Endangered, FSS great gray owl Strix nebulosi State Endangered, FSS California spotted owl Strix occidentalis occidentalis Under Review for Listing (2015), FSS northern goshawk Accipiter gentilis Species of Special Concern (SSC), FSS Cooper’s hawk Accipiter cooperii Watch List black swift Cypseloides niger SSC willow flycatcher Epidonax traillii State Endangered, FSS w. yellow-billed cuckoo Coccyzus americanus occidentalis Federal Threatened, State Endangered, FSS State Threatened, Proposed Federal fisher – West Coast DPS* Pekania pennanti Threatened, SSC, FSS Sierra marten Martes caurina sierra FSS Sierra Nevada red fox Vulpes vulpes necator State Threatened, FSS California wolverine Gulo gulo State Threatened, Fully Protected, FSS Sierra Nevada mountain beaver Aplodontia rufa californica SSC Townsend’s big-eared bat Corynorhinus townsendii SSC, FSS spotted bat Euderma maculatum SSC pallid bat Antrozous pallidus SSC, FSS fringed myotis Myotis thysanodes FSS Mount Lyell salamander Hydromantes platycephalus Watch List Fairview slender salamander Batrachoseps bramei FSS relictual slender salamander Batrachoseps relictus FSS Kern Canyon slender Batrachoseps simatus State Threatened, FSS salamander yellow-blotched salamander Ensatina eschscholtzii croceater FSS mountain yellow-legged frog* Rana muscosa Federal Endangered northern DPS foothill yellow-legged frog Rana boylii Proposed State Threatened, FSS n. California legless lizard Anniella pulchra SSC, FSS western pond turtle Emys marmorata SSC Delta smelt* Hypomesus transpacificus Federal Threatened

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Additional legal and regulatory compliance requirements of the GSNM Management Plan (USDA 2012) for wildlife and their habitats include evaluating proposed activities with regards to the California Condor Recovery Plan; Valley Elderberry Longhorn Beetle Recovery Plan; Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act of 1940; and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918. See the Discussion section under Wildlife (below) for further details.

A CNDDB database search for all special status species within a one-mile radius of the projects revealed the following for Montecito Sequoia Resort: two records for fisher from 1920 (shot and trapped, respectively); 1950 (observation; presumed extant) in the Big Baldy saddle area. A record also exists for Sierra Nevada mountain beaver from 1966, when 2 were collected 2 miles northwest of Stony Creek. In addition to these wildlife records, the CNDDB listed the Big Tree Forest Community and a crustacean, the Sequoia cave isopod (Figure 8).

The following records were within a one-mile radius of Stony Creek Lodge: a single fisher from1960 (observation; presumed extant) in Lost Grove; another in 2003 (presumed extant) by a USFS Carnivore Study remote camera station, approximately 0.5 miles south of the Stony Creek campground; and another detected at a track plate station approximately two miles south of Stony Creek Lodge. A Sierra marten, a subspecies of Pacific marten, was also detected at this camera station. In addition to these wildlife records, the CNDDB listed the Big Tree Forest Community, grey-leaved violet (Viola pinetorum ssp. grisea), and Abrams’ onion (Allium abramsii) (Figure 9).

California spotted owl detections in the general vicinity include TUL0003, west of Montecito Sequoia Resort; TUL0030, southwest of Stony Creek Resort; and TUL0040, southeast of Stony Creek Resort (Figures 8 and 9). The complete CNDDB records for the California spotted owl activity centers (ACs) nearest the project areas are summarized in Table 2. The last survey data reported in the CNDDB for all three ACs was in 2000.

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Table 2. CNDDB California spotted owl detections for ACs nearest the project areas

Approximate AC CNDDB Reported CNDDB Reported Distance to Number Positive Data Negative Data Nearest Project Area (miles) 1963 AC established non-nesting pair Some negative results 1974, 1976, 1983-1986 single owl TUL0003 during same years as 1.3 1988, 1989, 1996, 1997 non-nesting pair positive survey results 2000 nesting pair 1975, 1990-1992 single owl 1983, 1986, 1988, TUL0030 1993 non-nesting pair 1.5 1989, 1997-2000 1994-1996 single owl 1941, 1965 single owl TUL0040 1974, 1991, 1993, 1995-1999 non-nesting pair 1982 1.1 1988, 1989, 1990, 1992, 1994, 2000 nesting pair

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Figure 8. The CNDDB records for wildlife, plants, and plant communities within a 1-mile radius of Montecito Sequoia Resort

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Figure 9. The CNDDB records for wildlife, plants, and plant communities within a 1-mile radius of Stony Creek Resort

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Plants Additional special status plant species were found on the CNPS Inventory of Rare and Endangered Plants, and the Forest Service Sensitive Pant Species List.

The GSNM Management Plan (USDA 2012) requires activities within the Monument be evaluated for effects to botanical resources as per FSM Chapter 2070, Regional Native Plant Policies. Additionally, the current inventories of the California Native Plant Society’s (CNPS) Inventory of Rare and Endangered Plants of California (CNPS 1, 2019) was consulted to determine which special status plant species may occur within the project area and to compile a target species list. The nine-quad query of CNDDB, CNPS Inventory records and Forest Service Sensitive Pant Species List resulted in 51 listed vascular and nonvascular plant species. Species for which habitat does not exist in the project area were not included in the target species list, resulting in a final list of 39 species (Table 3). These scoping strategies are consistent with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife protocols (CDFW 2018) and the California Environmental Quality Act (State of California 2001).

Table 3. CNDDB/CNPS Rare Plant List for Muir Grove nine-quad area. Plants found outside of project elevation range removed.

Scientific Name Common Name Status Allium abramsii Abram's onion 1B.2 Angelica callii Call's angelica 4.3 Boechera tularensis Tulare rockcress 1B.3, FSS Botrychium crenulatum scalloped moonwort 2B.2, FSS Botrychium minganense Mingan moonwort 2B.2, FSS Bruchia bolanderi Bolander's bruchia 4.2 FSS Calochortus westonii Shirley Meadows star-tulip 1B.2, FSS Calyptridium pygmaeum pygmy pussypaws 1B.2, FSS Calystegia malacophylla var. berryi Berry's morning-glory 3.3 Carlquistia muirii Muir's tarplant 1B.3, FSS Ceanothus fresnensis Fresno ceanothus 4.3 Cinna bolanderi Bolander's woodreed 1B.2, FSS Claytonia palustris marsh claytonia 4.3 Cordylanthus rigidus ssp. brevibracteatus short-bracted bird's-beak 4.3 Cordylanthus tenuis ssp. barbatus Fresno County bird's-beak 4.3 Cryptantha incana Tulare cryptantha 1B.3, FSS Delphinium inopinum unexpected larkspur 4.3, FSS Dicentra nevadensis Tulare County bleeding heart 4.3, FSS Erigeron aequifolius Hall's daisy 1B.3, FSS

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Erigeron inornatus var. keilii Keil's daisy 1B.3 Eriogonum ovalifolium var. monarchense Monarch buckwheat 1B.1, FSS Eriogonum prattenianum var. avium Kettle Dome buckwheat 4.2 Erythranthe sierrae Sierra Nevada monkeyflower 4.2 Gilia yorkii Monarch gilia 1B.1, FSS Glyceria grandis American manna grass 2B.3 Heterotheca monarchensis Monarch golden-aster 1B.1, FSS Hulsea brevifolia short-leaved hulsea 1B.2, FSS Ivesia campestris field ivesia 1B.2 Jensia yosemitana Yosemite tarplant 3.2 Lewisia congdonii Congdon's lewisia 1B.3, CR, FFS Meesia triquetra three-ranked hump moss 4.2 Meesia uliginosa broad-nerved hump moss 2B.2, FSS Mielichhoferia elongata elongate copper moss 4.3, FSS Petrophytum caespitosum ssp. Acuminatum marble rockmat 1B.3, FSS Potamogeton robbinsii Robbins' pondweed 2B.3 Ribes tularense Sequoia gooseberry 1B.3 Trichodon cylindricus cylindrical trichodon 2B.2 Utricularia intermedia flat-leaved bladderwort 2B.2 Viola pinetorum ssp. grisea grey-leaved violet 1B.2 CR: California Rare. FSS: Forest Service Sensitive. CNPS Ranks: 1A-Plants Presumed Extirpated in California and Either Rare or Extinct Elsewhere, 1B-Plants Rare, Threatened, or Endangered in California and Elsewhere, 2A-Plants Presumed Extirpated in California, But Common Elsewhere, 2B-Plants Rare, Threatened, or Endangered in California, But More Common Elsewhere, 3-Plants About Which More Information is Needed - A Review List, 4-Plants of Limited Distribution - A Watch List. Threat Ranks: 0.1-Seriously threatened in California (over 80% of occurrences threatened / high degree and immediacy of threat), 0.2-Moderately threatened in California (20-80% occurrences threatened / moderate degree and immediacy of threat), 0.3-Not very threatened in California (less than 20% of occurrences threatened / low degree and immediacy of threat or no current threats known)

Field Survey On October 16, 2018 NRM botanist Prairie Moore and wildlife biologist Michelle McKenzie conducted a site visit to survey the projects and surrounding area for all terrestrial and aquatic- related plant and animal species present. The survey was conducted for approximately 5 hours on a mild (70℉/21℃), sunny day.

Wildlife While walking the project areas all audial detections of bird and mammal species were noted and the entire area traversed (an approximate 400-foot buffer around the project areas) was scanned for wildlife sign such as tracks and scat. In addition, trees were inspected for activity or sign of use by wildlife (cavities, nests, scrapes or accumulated vegetation), and all cover objects of primarily coarse woody debris were inspected for potential amphibian species.

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The project areas at Montecito Sequoia are primarily concentrated in the southwest area of Lake Homavalo (Figure 3). At Stony Creek, the projects are concentrated on the existing parking lot (Figure 5).

Plants Vegetation types within and around the project area were identified and recorded according to the conventions of A Manual of California Vegetation, Second Edition (Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf, 2009). CDFW’s California Sensitive Natural Communities list (CDFW 2, 2018) was referenced to determine if Sensitive Communities were included in the vegetation alliances and associations found on-site.

Suitable habitat (when present) for each target species was identified. It was not possible to visit reference populations of target species. Vascular plants encountered in the field were identified to the lowest taxonomic level necessary for a rare species determination. Species were identified using the Jepson Manual 2nd edition (Baldwin et al., 2012).

The wet meadow adjacent to Lake Homavalo potentially supports special status plant species. This area will not be impacted by the projects; therefore, it was not surveyed.

IV. Results and Discussion

For all species, direct effects are those which are caused by the action (project) and occur at the same time and place. Indirect effects are defined as those effects caused by the proposed action and are later in time, but still reasonably certain to occur. Determinations for proposed or listed species include no effect; may affect, but not likely to adversely affect; and may affect, and is likely to adversely affect. A finding of no effect means there will be no impacts, positive or negative, to listed or proposed resources. Generally, this means no listed resources will be exposed to the action and its environmental consequences. May affect, but not likely to adversely affect means that all effects are beneficial, insignificant, or discountable. Beneficial effects have associated positive effects without any adverse effects to the species or habitat; insignificant effects relate to the size of the impact and include those effects that are undetectable, not measurable, or cannot be evaluated; discountable effects are those extremely unlikely to occur. A finding of may affect, and is likely to adversely affect means that listed resources are likely to be exposed to the action or its environmental consequences and will respond in a negative manner to the exposure. Standards and guidelines within the Giant Sequoia National Monument (GSNM) Management Plan requires that special aquatic features such as lakes, wet meadows and wetlands receive a protective buffer of 300 feet from the edge of the feature or riparian vegetation, whichever is

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greater (USDA 2012). All activities related to improvement projects at the resorts will need to occur outside of this buffer. WILDLIFE Summary of Findings No listed wildlife species or special status species were detected during the survey. Special status and additional species of interest, and the potential for project impacts, are presented in Table 4, below. Species are considered on a case-by-case basis as to the project’s affect based on considerations such as home range, habitat and sensitivity to disturbance. None of these species are expected to experience direct or indirect effects. All species detected during the survey are listed in Table 5.

Survey Results Due to the mid-October survey at significant elevation (Lake Homavalo 7,386 feet), species likely present during the breeding season were absent, such as migratory birds and herpetofauna. No special status species were detected during the site visit. There was a detection of two deceased frogs in the wetland vegetation on the northwest shore of Lake Homavalo (Photos 18, 19), one desiccated and one apparently predated (Photos 16, 17), initially considered to be a Rana species based solely on size. However, the wildlife biologist at Hume Lake Ranger District, SNF, determined the photos to more likely be bullfrog.

The Lake Homavalo area is in the range of the northern Distinct Population Segment (DPS) of the mountain yellow-legged frog (Rana muscosa), a federally endangered species, although only historic records exist for this species in the area. The biologist at Hume Lake corresponded that Lake Homavalo (aka Montecito Lake) “contains both non-native fish and bullfrogs, making it currently unsuitable habitat for mountain yellow-legged frogs. The meadow at Montecito and the portion of Woodward Creek that passes east of the resort area broadly mapped as suitable habitat but mountain yellow-legged frogs have not previously been detected there”. Regarding Stony Creek, he corresponded that CDFW stocks fish in Stony Creek, and that the nearest potential habitat for mountain yellow-legged frogs would be at the meadow at the campground (approximately 0.6 miles east) and Stony Creek. The stocked fish are non-native.

Discussion The proposed projects at Montecito Sequoia and Stony Creek Resorts occur within the footprint of existing disturbance. At Montecito Sequoia, the area of proposed new development is already heavily impacted by visitors recreating in and around Lake Homavalo; at Stony Creek the proposed projects are within the footprint of the paved parking lot. The existing heavy recreation use and associated traffic of the area likely precludes the presence of special status species, other

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than traveling through the area or foraging during low season, suggesting most if not all wildlife occurring in the area are unlikely to experience any direct or indirect effects from the proposed projects.

The legal and regulatory compliance requirements of the GSNM Management Plan (USDA 2012) for wildlife and their habitats include evaluating proposed activities with regards to the California condor, valley elderberry longhorn beetle, bald and golden eagles, and migratory birds.

The California Condor Recovery Plan (USFWS 1996) provides guidelines for management of nest and roost sites. The 1988 Sequoia National Forest Plan designated the Starvation Grove nest area and Lion Ridge roost area for the California condor, which are outside of the Monument. This species is a wide-ranging forager of foothill grasslands and oak savannah habitats, which do not exist in the project areas. Nest sites are located in various types of rock formations (crevices, ledges) and more rarely, in giant sequoia cavities. Intolerant of human intrusion, particularly in nesting areas, condors are not expected to occur in the vicinity of the resorts. An assessment of Sequoia and Kings Canyon (SEKI) National Parks (EGSPC 2013) reported no records for condor in the park since the last one was taken from the wild in 1981 (sightings 1907-1981), and are not currently found foraging or nesting in SEKI; the current status in the Parks for this species is extirpated. As of 2010, a total of 192 condors were in the wild, 94 of them in California. The nearest release site to the parks is the Bitter Creek National Wildlife Refuge in Kern County, and birds from this site have ranged as far as the foothills east of Bakersfield (Tehachapi).

The Valley Elderberry Longhorn Beetle Recovery Plan provides guidelines and management for this species, which at the time of listing in 1980, the range was known from less than 10 locations on the American River, Putah Creek and Merced River. Now it is known to occur from southern Shasta County to Fresno County, on or close to its host plant (elderberry), along rivers and streams. Due to no known locations for this species in Tulare County, where the project sites are located, this species is not expected to occur in the general vicinity.

The Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act provides for the protection of eagles by prohibiting the take of these species, except under certain specified conditions. Due to the level of human activity that occurs year-round in varying intensity, these species are not expected to nest or forage in the area, although it is possible bald eagles may opportunistically forage at Lake Homavalo during times of reduced human activity.

The Migratory Bird Act prohibits the taking, killing, possession and transportation of birds, their eggs and nests, for all species that migrate across international borders. Because no trees or vegetation that may provide nesting opportunities will be removed, no impacts to migratory Biological Assessment Natural Resources Management Corporation 28 Stony Creek and Montecito Sequoia Resorts Improvement Project December 5, 2019

birds are expected. To further ensure protection, the vegetation that does need removed will be done outside of the migratory bird nesting season (April – August). At Montecito Sequoia, some minimal landscaping and a few pine trees will need removed, and at Stony Creek there are several small diameter trees on the edge of the parking lot that will need removed. There may be additional areas of brush that will need trimmed back to allow for the free movement of construction equipment, and the trees within the landscape container at the front of Stony Creek Lodge will be removed.

The Endangered Species Act mandates all federal agencies to conserve listed species, in part by conducting a project impact analysis based on an official species list obtained online through the USFWS Informal Section 7 Consultation process. An official species list was requested separately for each resort, but resulted in the same species to be addressed (Appendix B): delta smelt, mountain yellow-legged frog, California condor and fisher. The project areas are outside of established critical habitat for these species, with the exception of fisher, for which no critical habitat has been designated.

Delta smelt are an endangered fish species close to extinction. This fish is characterized as a semi-anadromous species that spawns in fresh water and rears in fresh to brackish water. Their range extends from the upstream boundaries of tidal influence in the northern, eastern and southern Delta regions of the Sacramento and San Joaquin Rivers, to Suisun and San Pablo Bays in the northwestern region of the estuary (USFWS 1996a). Due to the distance from the project areas and lack of connectivity to the Delta river systems, this species will no longer be considered in this assessment.

There were two deceased frogs found in the wetland area adjacent to Lake Homavalo (Photos 18, 19), one desiccated and one apparently predated (Photos 16, 17). Initially considered a Rana species based solely on appearance, photos were shown to the Hume Lake District biologist. In response, J. Cordes made the following points before concluding this is “likely to be a no effect determination” on the mountain yellow-legged frog (Rana muscosa): • There is a CNDDB historic record of Rana muscosa from 1941 mapped along the General’s Highway about 1.5 miles north of Montecito, but the nearest extant population is over 18 miles away on Sierra National Forest, north of the Kings River and outside of Stony Creek watershed. • The last detection of Rana muscosa on the Hume Lake Ranger District was in 1955. • The nearest designated critical habitat is over 10 miles away in Sequoia National Park. • Montecito Lake [Homavalo] contains both non-native fish and bullfrogs, making it currently unsuitable habitat for mountain yellow-legged frogs. The meadow at Montecito and the portion of Woodward Creek that passes east of the Resort are broadly mapped

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as “suitable” habitat but mountain yellow-legged frogs have not previously been detected there. • CDFW stocks fish in Stony Creek making it also unsuitable habitat. • Stony Creek Village [Resort] doesn’t overlap with any lakes, meadows or streams that would be potential habitat. The nearest would be Stony Creek and the meadow at the campground.

The two remaining species from the USFWS Informal Section 7 Consultation official species list are the California condor and fisher. As previously mention, condors are somewhat intolerant of human intrusion, particularly in nesting areas, and are not expected to occur in the vicinity of the resorts. The fisher is covered in further detail below.

Due to the projects occurring on federal lands, state and federal agencies and interested parties from the surrounding area were informed of the proposed updates to resort facilities and this environmental review through a scoping process. On June 24, 2019, the USFS Hume Lake District Recreation Staff Officer sent a scoping letter soliciting comments and participation during the 30- day comment period. One letter received by the USFWS (the Service) Sacramento Office concerning the northern DPS of mountain yellow-legged frog (Appendix C) stated that upon review: • The proposed projects are within the range of the federally threatened northern distinct population segment of the mountain yellow-legged frog (Rana muscosa) and a historic record of the species occurs near the Montecito Sequoia Resort, at approximately 6 road miles southeast of General Grant Grove, Kings Canyon National Park. • Given the small number of known extant populations of R. muscosa in the Sierra Nevada, the Service recommends that, as part of the environmental review process, at least one species-specific visual survey for R. muscosa and suitable habitat for the species be conducted in the action area by a USFS-approved biologist who has knowledge and experience with the species. This survey will inform the environmental review and permitting process.

On August 19, 2019 the Hume Lake Ranger District biologist conducted the above recommended species-specific visual survey at Lake Homavalo. During the morning survey a total of 46 bullfrogs (Lithobates catesbeianus) were detected (Appendix D). Due to the high number of individuals of this aggressive, non-native species, it seems prudent to assume no native amphibians of any life stage would be able to survive in the same waterbody as this voracious predator.

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Range maps and distribution data for frog species in the CDFW Habitat Relationship System (CWHR 2019) was reviewed for potential Rana species in the area. The southern mountain yellow-legged frog (R. muscosa) is a federal and state endangered species in the San Gabriel, San Jacinto, and San Bernardino Mountains only, found in lake and pond habitats, meadow streams, and isolated pools up to 12,000 feet in elevation. The Sierra Nevada yellow-legged frog (R. sierrae), a state threatened and federally endangered species, resides in similar elevations and habitats as the mountain yellow-legged frog, with open stream and lake edges with gentle slopes seemingly preferred. This habitat type is present at Lake Homavalo, but this species occurs north of the project area, and the CNDDB query did not include this species. The foothill yellow-legged frog (R. boylii) inhabits rocky streams and rivers below 6,000 feet in elevation, eliminating this species as a possibility. The remaining Rana species, the California red-legged frog (R. draytonii), a federally threatened species and a state species of special concern, is unlikely due to its occurrence typically at elevations below 5,000 feet.

Non-native frogs apparently use the riparian and wetland areas along the perimeter of Lake Homavalo, adjacent to the proposed outdoor kitchen and gazebo location, but are unlikely to be within the project area itself due to this area having historically high rates of visitor and recreational use. The distance from the nearest proposed project to the nearest wetland habitat is approximately 130 feet to the northwest (Figure 10).

The riparian and wetland habitat that exists on the north and northwest areas adjacent to the lake appear to provide optimal habitat for migratory nesting birds, particularly the willow patches to the north. Therefore, this area should be considered a Riparian Conservation Area (see further details below), which include Special Aquatic Features (lakes, wet meadows, wetlands, bogs, fens, vernal pools, springs) in the GSNM Management Plan (USDA 2012), and require a width of “300 feet from edge of feature or riparian vegetation, whichever width is greater”.

Additional legal and regulatory compliance requirements of the GSNM Management Plan for wildlife and their habitats include following standards and guidelines (USDA 2012, Part 3, Design Criteria) for plants, wildlife and special habitats across all proposed management activities. Standards and guidelines are requirements that act as thresholds or constraints for management activities or practices to ensure the protection of resources. Applicable resources for the proposed projects include Hydrological Resources, and Wildlife and Plant Habitat; each resource type is further subdivided to provide more specific direction.

Hydrological Resources is subdivided into Monument-wide (which includes the relevant subdivisions of Riparian and Wetland and Streamside Management Zones), and Riparian Conservation Areas and Critical Aquatic Refuges. Due to the distance from the project areas at Biological Assessment Natural Resources Management Corporation 31 Stony Creek and Montecito Sequoia Resorts Improvement Project December 5, 2019

Stony Creek Resort to the nearest water or riparian habitats these standards and guidelines apply to Montecito Sequoia Resort only.

Within Hydrological Resources, Monument-wide, the applicable Riparian and Wetland standards and guidelines include: giving special attention to land and vegetation within 100 feet of all perennial streams and lakes; provide protection where resource management activities are likely to adversely affect water conditions or fish habitat; and to delineate and evaluate riparian areas prior to implementing any project activity. The wetland and riparian areas adjacent to Lake Homavalo are being considered Riparian Conservation Areas, and therefore have a greater buffer distance than 100 feet. The fish species within the lake are most likely non-native and are therefore provided no habitat protections. The riparian area in the northwest area of Lake Homavalo has been delineated (Figure 10) and evaluated (see willow flycatcher discussion, below). Streamside Management Zone standards and guidelines require establishing and maintaining these zones for all stream courses and wetlands affected by management activities, and are designed to prevent sedimentation and protect riparian-dependent species. For meadows, seeps, springs and bogs this zone needs to be 100 feet.

Within Hydrological Resources, Riparian Conservation Areas (RCAs) and Critical Aquatic Refuges (CARs) standards and guidelines require that RCAs be designated for Special Aquatic Features. The RCA designated at Lake Homavalo is less than the required 300 feet from the edge of riparian vegetation to the nearest project area (proposed gazebo and outdoor kitchen). However, these areas are historically and currently highly impacted by human activity and may not meet the standards for RCA designation. The willow area north of the lake are greater than 300 feet from the nearest project area (Figure 10).

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Figure 10. USFWS National Wetland Inventory polygons, Montecito Sequoia Resort

Wildlife and Plant Habitat Resources are subdivided into Monument-wide, Old Forest Emphasis Areas, California Spotted Owl PACs (Protected Activity Centers) and HRCAs (Home Range Core Areas), Northern Goshawk PACs, Great Gray Owl PACs, Southern Sierra Fisher Conservation Area/Furbearer Den Sites, Marten Den Sites and Willow Flycatcher Sites. The standards and guidelines associated with these species primarily deal with activities involving tree and vegetation management, which these projects are not, and guidelines for conditions requiring wildlife surveys. The project sites at Stony Creek and Montecito Sequoia Resorts are outside of Old Forest Emphasis Areas and HRCAs. Applicable standards and guidelines are species- specific, and include those for whom habitat potentially exists: California spotted owl, northern goshawk, great gray owl, fisher, marten and willow flycatcher.

Locations for these species proximate to the resorts were determined by the CNDDB query of the surrounding nine quadrangle topographic maps. The nearest spotted owl PACs to the resorts are greater than one mile away (Table 2). There are no standards and guidelines that apply to the resort projects. The only potential is for limiting operating periods (LOPs) within a

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quarter mile of PACs during breeding season, which the resorts are not (Figure 8, Montecito Sequoia; Figure 9, Stony Creek).

The CNDDB has records for northern goshawk from 1968-1984, with no recent activity in the queried area. The nearest record is from Cabin Creek (1972) approximately 1.6 miles southeast of the Stony Creek project area. While habitat surrounding both resorts appear suitable for goshawk, the near-constant human presence during breeding season most likely discourages use. Similar to the California spotted owl, the only standards and guidelines that may be applicable to the projects were for LOPs within a quarter mile of PACs during breeding season. Of the two CNDDB records for great gray owl in this vicinity (1965, 2001), the latter is from near the Big Meadow area, approximately 2.6 miles northeast of Montecito Sequoia Resort, with the same applicable standards and guidelines for LOPs. Although meadow habitat exists adjacent to Lake Homavalo, the preferred foraging habitat for this owl, the intensity of human activity is likely discouraging, particularly during breeding season. Correspondence with the wildlife biologist at Hume Lake Ranger District (J. Cordes, September 3, 2019 email), determined “there have been hundreds of survey visits for goshawk and great gray owl on the Hume Lake RD resulting in the establishment of six goshawk PACs and three great gray owl PACs. None of those detections or PACs are within 4+ miles of your project areas”.

Fisher, and its smaller relative, the Sierra marten, are secretive and primarily nocturnal, making detection of these species difficult. The most recent CNDDB records for these species are from a USFS Carnivore Study using remote cameras, conducted in the area 2001 through 2003. For fisher, two records in 2001 are from approximately five miles northwest of Montecito Sequoia in the Big Stump area of Kings Canyon National Park. In 2002, two records are from approximately five miles west of Montecito Sequoia in the Escholm Creek watershed, and one from Rabbit Meadow, just a mile north of Montecito Sequoia. In 2003, two records are from one-half mile and two miles south of Stony Creek campground and resort, respectively. All the recent records for fisher are from SNF and occur below 7,000 feet in elevation, with the majority between 4,000 and 5,000 feet.

Conversely, the majority of records for the Sierra marten occur between 7,000 and 8,000 feet in SNF, just north of the Jennie Lakes Wilderness. A CNDDB record for marten from the 2001 camera study was in the Weaver Creek watershed, approximately four miles northeast of Montecito Sequoia. The 2003 camera study detected a marten at the same station as the fisher, approximately one-half mile south of Stony Creek campground, then two additional records from the Weaver Creek watershed. There was a single record from this same year for marten at Stringer Meadow, approximately 1.7 miles north of Montecito Sequoia.

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Fisher and marten are wide-ranging species requiring large, dense, old forests with high canopy cover and trees with old-growth characteristics, such as broken tops or cavities, or large downed logs or snags, for resting and denning. Although detections have occurred in the past within a mile of both Montecito Sequoia and Stony Creek Resorts, it is unlikely these species would den in close proximity to areas heavily impacted by historic and mostly consistent human activity. The fact that the detections were at camera stations somewhat near to human activity suggests they may have traveled some distance to the station, brought in by either the bait or scent lure used. Similar to the above avian species, the only standards and guidelines that might have applied to the projects are for LOPs within den site buffers during breeding season for fisher (700 acres; March 1 to June 30) and marten (100 acres; May 1 to July 31).

The willow flycatcher has five subspecies, three of which occur in California. The little willow flycatcher (Empidonax traillii brewsteri) breeds from Tulare County north, along the western side of the Sierra Nevada and Cascades, extending to the north coast. Once considered a common summer resident in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks and surrounding areas, it is currently a rare to locally uncommon resident in wet meadows and montane riparian habitats up to 8,000 feet in elevation, and a common spring and fall migrant at lower elevations. Most of the remaining breeding populations occur in isolated mountain meadows of the Sierra and Cascades (Craig and Williams 1998). The standards and guidelines from the GSNM Management Plan for willow flycatcher, which mainly focus on grazing in meadows by stock, also requires a four-year cycle of surveys at “all five known willow flycatcher sites in the Monument”. Because this species was not included in the CNDDB query it is assumed none of the five known breeding sites occurs within the vicinity of the resorts. Although there is willow riparian habitat in the area immediately north of Lake Homavalo, it is likely too limited in size or too disruptive to breeding birds.

Special status and additional wildlife species of interest, and the potential for project impacts, are presented in Table 4, below. Species are considered on a case-by-case basis as to the project’s affect based on considerations such as home range, habitat and sensitivity to disturbance. Considering the aforementioned high visitor use at these resort areas, presence of suitable habitat may exist adjacent to the project areas, but species adverse to human presence are not expected due to the high level of disturbance.

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Table 4. Special status wildlife species, species potentially present in the project area, and potential impacts

Presence Potentially of Listing Affected Habitat Present with No Common Name General Habitat Description Suitable Comments Status by Effects Expected Habitat Project? w/in Site? BIRDS

No effect; species does not breed in the vicinity Requires large bodies of water, or free If eagles previously fished Lake of the lake; projects not flowing rivers with abundant fish, and Homavalo, undeterred by expected to increase adjacent snags or other perches. Nests bald eagle SE, FSS Yes No human presence and activity, visitor numbers so no in large, old-growth, or dominant live then they are expected to additional disturbance tree, especially ponderosa pine. Peak continue to do so from projects as breeding March through June. compared to previous years

May affect, but not likely to adversely affect; see Species Accounts. The riparian/wetland Occurs between 4500-7500 feet in the area adjacent to Lake Sierra Nevada from Plumas county to Homavalo not expected Yosemite region. Nests in large, broken- to be extensive enough great gray owl SE, FSS top snags of old growth red fir, mixed Yes Yes -- to support this species conifer, lodgepole pine, always in (Photos 1, 4, 18, 19). vicinity of wet meadows. Peak breeding Nearest CNDDB record March through May. (2001) from approximately 2.6 miles northeast of Montecito Sequoia Resort, near Big Meadow

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No effect. Trees less dense with elevation, Due to the historic and high starting at Kings Canyon use of the project areas by In southern California found nearly NP west of the resorts visitors any owls already always associated with oak and oak- and continuing east to nesting in the area would not conifer habitats with multi-layered, above tree line at Jennie California spotted (R), be further affected by the dense canopy; often daytime roosts in Yes No Lakes Wilderness. projects. There are 3 ACs owl FSS vicinity of water; nests in old growth Historic ACs occur within 1.4 miles of the project tree, snag, cavity or broken top. Peak within the heavily sites; most recent CNDDB breeding April and May. forested areas outside reported surveys were from of resorts; to the west 2000 between SNF and KCNP, north in SNF, and south in Sequoia NP

May affect, but not likely to adversely affect; see Species Accounts Habitat exists in the forest adjacent to the Within, and in vicinity of, coniferous project sites, but not forest; uses old nests, and maintains expected to be breeding SSC, alternate sites. Prefers middle and -- near high human use northern goshawk Yes Yes FSS higher elevations, and mature, dense areas; if already nesting conifer forests. Peak breeding April in the area this species through July. unlikely to be further affected by the projects. Nearest CNDDB record (1972) from Cabin Creek in SNP, approximately 1.6 miles southeast of Stony Creek Resort

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This species likely occurs in the Hunts in broken woodland and habitat No effect; primarily due adjacent forested habitat but edges; highly maneuverable in dense to availability of not expected to breed near cover; seldom found in areas without extensive habitat in Cooper’s hawk WL Yes No historic high use areas. Nearest wooded patchy habitat or dense tree general area away from CNDDB record (1996) was from stands. Peak breeding May through human disturbance several miles west at lower July. elevation.

No effect; there is no habitat available in the area of the resorts for this highly specialized Nests in moist crevice or cave above species. black swift SSC surf or on cliffs behind or adjacent to No No -- Nearest CNDDB records waterfalls; does not winter in state from waterfalls on Kaweah River, over 15 miles southwest of resorts

No effect; willows do occur in the riparian Most often occurs in broad open river No CNDDB records exist in the area north of Lake valleys or large mountain meadows area proximate to the resorts, Homavalo, but patch willow flycatcher SE, FSS with lush growth of shrubby willows; Yes No but species is known to have 5 limited in size and requires dense willow thickets for breeding areas within GSNM immediately adjacent to nesting; peak nesting in June area heavily impacted by humans

No effect; although willow habitat exists Occurs in valley foothill and desert adjacent to Lake riparian habitats in scattered locations Homavalo, it is likely too w. yellow-billed FT, SE, in California. Formerly common, No No -- high in elevation for this widespread in lowland habitats cuckoo FSS species; there are no throughout state in dense deciduous CNDDB records in the trees and shrubs, especially willows area proximate to the resorts

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MAMMALS

May affect, but not likely to adversely affect; see Species Accounts Although habitat exists in the general area of ST, Intermediate to large-tree stages of the projects this species coniferous forests and deciduous- -- not expected to breed fisher FCT, Yes Yes riparian areas with high percent canopy near historic high use FSS closure areas. Nearest CNDDB records to Montecito Sequoia (2002) within 1 mile north; Stony Creek (2003) within 1 mile south

May affect, but not likely to adversely affect; see Species Accounts Although habitat exists Habitat with limited human use in the general area of important; optimal habitats are various the projects this species mixed evergreen forests with more not expected to breed Sierra marten FSS than 40 percent canopy cover, with Yes Yes -- near historic high use large trees and snags in red fir, areas. lodgepole pine, subalpine conifer, Nearest CNDDB records mixed conifer and Jeffrey pine to Montecito Sequoia (2003) within 1.7 miles north; Stony Creek (2003) within 1 mile south

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No effect. In 2013, only Found in a variety of habitats, including two populations known wet meadow, subalpine conifer, to exist near Lassen lodgepole pine, red fir, montane Sierra Nevada red Peak and Sonora Pass; ST, FSS riparian, ponderosa and Jeffrey pine; No No -- only CNDDB record in fox dense vegetation and rocky areas for vicinity of resorts from denning, cover; also den in hollow logs, 1930s in Giant Forest stumps area of SNP

No effect. Previous records from Fresno County 1942-1972, and from SEKI 1925-1948 (EGSPC 2013); CNDDB record from Fresno County (1988) at 4,800 feet in elevation in Habitat with limited human use young pine plantation important; optimal habitat in southern specious. Institute for Sierra Nevada include red fir, mixed Wildlife Studies study in conifer, lodgepole pine, subalpine SEKI (2006) no conifer and probably wet meadows and detections; suggest last ST, FP, wolverine Jeffrey pine; hunts in more open areas, No No -- credible sighting in CA FSS using dense cover for resting and was 1958, prior to the reproduction. Dens in caves, cliffs, only recent wolverine hollow logs, cavities in ground, under recorded in CA (2008). rocks This animal maintained a 290 square mile area in Tahoe NF when last captured on camera (2017); this animal is past life expectancy for wolverine in the wild and the species may once again no longer exist in CA

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Habitat potentially exists Occur in dense riparian-deciduous and adjacent to the project area at open, brushy stages of most forest Montecito Sequoia, north of types; in Sierra Nevada typical habitat is Lake Homavalo, but burrows No effect; project site Sierra Nevada montane riparian; deep friable soils SSC Yes No underground for breeding and greater than 500 feet required for burrowing along with mountain beaver maintains small home range; from potential habitat moist, cool microclimate. Nests in CNDDB record (1996) from 0.5 burrows December through March miles west of Camp San

Joaquin in GSNM

This species likely to forage over riparian/wetland area of Throughout California in a wide variety Lake Homavalo and lake itself; No effect; species likely Townsends big- SSC, of habitats; most common in mesic may roost in nearby buildings Yes No forages in the general sites Typically found in caves, mines, where no disturbance will eared bat FSS vicinity manmade structures; feeds over water occur. Most recent CNDDB record (1997) from caves in SEKI NPs

No effect; species may forage in the general vicinity, but no rock Mostly found in foothills, mountain and outcrop or cliff habitat desert regions of California in arid in vicinity of project desert, grasslands and mixed conifer sites; may feed over forests from sea level to 10,000 feet in Lake Homavalo and may spotted bat SSC elevation; occasionally found in caves No No -- roost in nearby and building; cliffs provide optimal buildings, although roosting habitat; feeds over open unlikely. ground and water Most recent CNDDB

record (1995) from vicinity of Pinewood near Giant Forest, SNP

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Deserts, grasslands, shrublands, No effect; this species is woodlands and forests. Most common not expected at this SSC, in open, dry habitats with rocky areas pallid bat No No -- elevation; typically for roosting in low elevations of FSS feeding habitat not California; roosts in caves, crevices, available mines, hollow trees, buildings

Occurs in a wide variety of habitats from sea level to approximately 9000 May feed over Lake Homavalo feet in elevation; optimal habitats and roost in nearby forest No effect; species may include pinyon-juniper, valley foothill (documented roosting in giant fringed myotis FSS Yes No forage in the general hardwoods and hardwood conifer sequoias) or buildings; no vicinity between 4000-7000 feet; feeds over records in CNDDB within water and roosts in caves, mines, vicinity of resorts buildings and crevices

HERPETOFAUNA

Occurs only in Sierra Nevada from No effect; no habitat Placer County to Tulare County in (rock) available for this Mount Lyell patchy, isolated population; found in species in the general WL No No -- salamander massive rock areas in mixed conifer, red area of the project sites; fir, lodgepole pine; subalpine habitats project area outside of from 4000-12,000 feet in elevation range for this species

No effect; if in vicinity would not be above Although habitat may exist in ground during Occurs along streams, moist wooded the riparian/wetland areas construction phase of Fairview slender canyons, valley foothill riparian habitats north and northwest of Lake project at Montecito FSS Yes No salamander and Sierra mixed conifer; surface Homavalo no disturbance will Sequoia; no habitat at activity limited to rainy winter months occur in this area; limited Stony Creek Resort; home range project area outside of range for this species

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No effect; if in vicinity Occurs along streams, moist wooded would not be above canyons, valley foothill riparian habitats Although habitat may exist in ground during and Sierra mixed conifer; surface the riparian/wetland areas construction phase of relictual slender activity limited to rainy winter months; north and northwest of Lake project at Montecito FSS Yes No salamander use small mesic areas with overstory of Homavalo no disturbance will Sequoia; no habitat at shrub or trees with abundant rock, occur in this area; limited Stony Creek Resort; litter, or woody debris home range project area outside of range for this species

Occurs in valley-foothill hardwood and No effect; this species hardwood-conifer, also mixed chaparral typically occurs at from 1000-4000 feet; found under Kern Canyon elevations and habitats ST, FSS cover objects such as logs, moist leaf No No -- below project sites; slender salamander litter and talus during wet months; project area outside of retreats underground during drier range for this species months

No effect; if in vicinity Found in variety of coniferous habitats would not be above as well as montane hardwood and ground during Although habitat may exist in hardwood-conifer habitats from sea construction phase of the riparian/wetland areas yellow-blotched level to 10,000 feet; found under cover project at Montecito FSS Yes No north and northwest of Lake objects such as logs and rocks; retreats Sequoia; no habitat at salamander Homavalo no disturbance will underground during drier months and Stony Creek Resort; occur in this area winter at high elevations project area outside of range for this species

Associated with streams, lakes and Although habitat may exist, ponds in montane riparian, lodgepole No effect; recent survey this species was not detected NDPS mountain pine, subalpine conifer and wet at Lake Homavalo FT Yes No at Montecito Sequoia Resort meadow habitats; always encountered detected only non- yellow-legged frog area during amphibian surveys within a few feet of water native bullfrogs conducted in 2008 and 2019

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Secretive and fossorial, found from sea No effect; project sites level to 6000 feet in valley-foothill, heavily impacted and northern California chaparral; occurs in areas with sandy or SSC No No -- not in habitat or loose soils with plenty of leaf litter; legless lizard elevational range for sometimes under cover objects such as this species rock but most often buried in leaf litter

No effect; project sites A thoroughly aquatic turtle of ponds, not in elevational range western pond turtle marshes, rivers, streams and irrigation for this species; no SSC No No -- ditches, usually with aquatic reported observations vegetation, below 6000 ft elevation for this species at Lake Homavalo

State: FP Fully protected (legally protected) Federal: SE Endangered (legally protected) FC Candidate SSC Species of Special Concern FE Endangered (legally protected) ST Threatened (legally protected) FT Threatened (legally protected) FSS Forest Service Sensitive (no protections) (R) Under Review for Listing

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All wildlife species detected onsite are recorded in Table 5. Due to this late season survey at significant elevation (> 7,000 feet), most migratory bird species were absent. Further, no significant rainfall had occurred so the area outside of the wetlands was fairly dry, with low nighttime temperatures, therefore reducing opportunities to observe herpetofauna that may occur in the area during more optimal times of the year.

Table 5. Wildlife species detected at Montecito Sequoia Resort (MSR) and Stony Creek Resort (SCR) during site visit October 16, 2018

Federal / Common Name Scientific Name Site Detection Method State Listing red- breasted sapsucker Sphyrapicus ruber No MSR Visual common raven Corvus corax No MSR Visual mallard Anas platyrhynchos No MSR Visual, Auditory mountain chickadee Poecile gambeli No MSR Visual Brewers blackbird Euphagus cyanocephalus No MSR Visual dark-eyed junco Junco hyemalis No MSR Visual unknown frog species (Likely bullfrog) -- MSR Visual (predated) American robin Turdus migratorius No SCR Visual Stellar’s jay Cyanocitta stelleri No SCR Visual, Auditory raccoon Procyon lotor No SCR Tracks western gray squirrel Sciurus griseus No SCR Visual Merriman’s chipmunk Tamias merriami No SCR Visual, Auditory

Species Accounts – Potential Effects The following wildlife species were noted either by CNDDB as having historically occurred in the area or have the potential to occur due to habitat; by USFS as being Forest Service Sensitive with concern for impacts to population viability; or during the course of this assessment were considered most likely to occur in the area and may be affected. Species information from the CDFW California Wildlife Habitat Relationships (CWHR 2019) online system unless noted. Fisher (Pekania pennanti) Regulatory Status: The West Coast Distinct Population Segment (DPS) of fisher is a State Threatened, Proposed Federal Threatened, Species of Special Concern, and Forest Service Sensitive species. Habitat Requirements and Natural History: The fisher is a relatively rare carnivore that occurs only in North America and is strongly associated with mature forest habitats characterized by large diameter trees, decadent features, and extensive canopy cover. In California, the fisher historically ranged throughout the Sierra Nevada from Greenhorn Mountain in northern Kern County to the southern Cascades at Mount Shasta; west into the North Coast Range and Klamath Mountains from Lake and Marin Counties, north to the State line.

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A carnivore study conducted in Sequoia and Kings Canyon (SEKI) National Parks from 2002 to 2004 using baited remote camera stations and track plates determined fisher occur primarily in low to mid-elevations, averaging between 3,200 and 6,500 feet, but up to 9,400 feet (Green 2007).

Found in contiguous forests with moderate to dense canopy cover, fisher rest in large live trees, snags and logs with cavities, platforms and broken tops. Breeding sites are typically in tree cavities of black oak, white fir, incense cedar, ponderosa pine and sugar pine. From one to five young are born early spring (late February, March) and mating occurs soon after birth, when females undergo delayed implantation. In the southern Sierra, the fisher diet is diverse and includes mostly small mammals (squirrels, mice) but includes medium-sized mammals, bird eggs, lizards, fruits and carrion (EGSPC 2013).

Potential for Occurrence within the Project Area: Distribution for this species show many similarities to historic records in SEKI National Parks, potentially a result of long-term protection of these areas (Green 2007). When viewing satellite imagery of the sites with historic fisher detections, it appears habitat still exists but has experienced changes due to the onset of development and road infrastructure. Existing patterns of use by fisher will not be altered by the resort projects. Due to the year-round activity at or near the resorts, these areas have likely been historically avoided.

Direct Effects: The proposed projects at Montecito Sequoia and Stony Creek Resorts are occurring within the historic and existing footprint of the resorts, and do not involve the removal of any large diameter trees or any other potential resting or denning structures. No direct effects from the proposed projects to fisher are expected.

Indirect Effects: The existing heavy recreation use and associated traffic of the resort areas likely precludes the presence of fisher, other than traveling through the area during wide-ranging foraging bouts. Therefore, no indirect effects from the proposed projects to fisher are expected.

Cumulative Impacts: The projects are located within the boundaries of GSNM, and all projects executed in the Monument are under the regulatory purview of the GSNM Management Plan. No additional developments are reasonably expected in the region. The increase in guest accommodations at Montecito Sequoia and improvements to services at Stony Creek are not expected to increase visitation to GSNM and SEKI National Parks, but in general, visitation to national parks has been on the rise for several years.

Determination: May affect, but not likely to adversely affect.

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Sierran Marten (Martes caurina sierrae) Regulatory Status: The Sierran marten, a subspecies of Pacific marten (Martes caurina), is a Forest Service Sensitive species.

Habitat Requirements and Natural History: The marten is a relatively rare carnivore that is strongly associated with mature forest habitats characterized by large diameter trees, decadent features, and extensive canopy cover. In some portions of its range within SEKI National Parks, marten seek cover in extensive boulder fields at higher elevations where trees are smaller. In California, marten historically ranged throughout the Sierra Nevada and North Coast regions, Klamath and Cascade mountains.

A carnivore study conducted in SEKI National Parks from 2002 to 2004 using baited remote camera stations and track plates determined marten occur primarily in mid to high elevations, averaging between 5,900 and 11,000 feet. In general, marten appear to be more common and less restricted in distribution as compared to fisher (Green 2007).

Found in contiguous forests with moderate to dense canopy cover, marten rest in large live trees, stumps, snags and logs with cavities, platforms and broken tops, and sometimes caves. Breeding and resting sites are typically in red fir, lodgepole pine, Jeffrey pine, and Sierra mixed conifer habitats. From one to five young are born early spring (April, May) and mating occurs soon after birth, when females undergo delayed implantation. Marten primarily feed on small to medium sized mammals, tunneling under snow during winter to pursue prey.

Potential for Occurrence within the Project Area: Distribution for this species show many similarities to historic records in SEKI National Parks, potentially a result of long-term protection of these areas (Green 2007). Existing patterns of use by marten will not be altered by the resort projects. Due to the year-round activity at or near the resorts, these areas have likely been historically avoided.

Direct Effects: The proposed projects at Montecito Sequoia and Stony Creek Resorts are occurring within the historic and existing footprint of the resorts, and do not involve the removal of any large diameter trees or any other potential resting or denning structures. No direct effects from the proposed projects to marten are expected.

Indirect Effects: The existing heavy recreation use and associated traffic of the resort areas likely precludes the presence of marten, other than traveling through the area during wide-ranging foraging bouts. Therefore, no indirect effects from the proposed projects to marten are expected.

Determination: May affect, but not likely to adversely affect.

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Great Gray Owl (Strix nebulosi) Regulatory Status: The great gray owl is a State Endangered and Forest Service Sensitive species. Habitat Requirements and Natural History: The great gray owl is a rarely seen resident of dense, mature forests in the vicinity of wet meadows, from Alaska east across Canada, and south into western states and in the Great Lakes region. In California, this states’ rarest owl, the species occurs in the Sierra Nevada from Plumas County south to the Yosemite region, with occasional reports from northwest California in winter and Warner Mountains in summer.

The elevation range for this species is between 4,500 and 7,500 feet in true fir and mixed conifer habitats adjacent to meadows, where it hunts from low, exposed perches in or on the meadow edge. Feeding on primarily meadow-dwelling rodents such as pocket gopher and voles, this species will occasionally prey on birds up to grouse size.

In California, nests occur in large, broken-topped snags with no nesting material, within range of foraging meadows. Second-growth forests are used if suitable nest sites are available. Breeding pairs are monogamous, laying three eggs on average, March through May, with young fledging approximately sixty days later.

Potential for Occurrence within the Project Area: Correspondence with the Hume Lake District biologist (J. Cordes, September 3, 2019 email), determined “there have been hundreds of survey visits for goshawk and great gray owl on the Hume Lake RD resulting in the establishment of six goshawk PACs and three great gray owl PACs. None of those detections or PACs are within 4+ miles of your project area”. Direct Effects: The proposed projects at Montecito Sequoia and Stony Creek Resorts are occurring within the historic and existing footprint of the resorts, and do not involve the removal of any large diameter trees or any other potential nesting structures. No direct effects from the proposed projects to great gray owls are expected.

Indirect Effects: The existing heavy recreation use and associated traffic of the resort areas likely precludes the presence of breeding owls, as confirmed by the District biologist. No indirect effects from the proposed projects to great gray owl are expected.

Determination: May affect, but not likely to adversely affect.

Northern Goshawk (Accipiter gentilis) Regulatory Status: The northern goshawk is a state Species of Special Concern and a Forest Service Sensitive species.

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Habitat Requirements and Natural History: The northern goshawk is a year-round resident throughout the northern US and Canada, including Alaska and the western states. In California, this species is found in mature and old-growth stands of conifer and deciduous habitats, typically with a water source within the territory.

Found primarily in middle and high elevations, this species hunts in wooded habitats where it frequents particular perches for prey-plucking such as snags and dead-topped trees. Prey is most often birds, from robin to grouse in size, as well as squirrels and rabbits.

Goshawk typically nest on north-facing slopes in the densest parts of stands with nearby openings, such as meadows, and water. In southern California, breeding begins in April when the female lays an average of three eggs, with young fledging within three months.

Potential for Occurrence within the Project Area: Correspondence with the Hume Lake District biologist (J. Cordes, September 3, 2019 email), determined “there have been hundreds of survey visits for goshawk and great gray owl on the Hume Lake RD resulting in the establishment of six goshawk PACs and three great gray owl PACs. None of those detections or PACs are within 4+ miles of your project area”. Direct Effects: The proposed projects at Montecito Sequoia and Stony Creek Resorts are occurring within the historic and existing footprint of the resorts, and do not involve the removal of any large diameter trees or any other potential nesting structures. No direct effects from the proposed projects to northern goshawk are expected.

Indirect Effects: The existing heavy recreation use and associated traffic of the resort areas likely precludes the presence of breeding goshawk, as confirmed by the District biologist. No indirect effects from the proposed projects to northern goshawk are expected.

Determination: May affect, but not likely to adversely affect.

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PLANTS Summary of Findings No listed plant species, special status species, or sensitive communities were detected during the survey. Special status with potential to occur in the area; and the potential for project impacts to these species, are presented in Table 6, below. None of these species are expected to experience direct or indirect effects.

Survey Results Due to the mid-October survey at significant elevation (Lake Homavalo 7,386 feet), the visit was done outside of the seasonally appropriate window. No special status species were detected during the site visit.

Discussion The proposed projects at Montecito Sequoia and Stony Creek Resorts occur within the footprint of existing disturbance. At Montecito Sequoia, the area of proposed new development is already heavily impacted by visitors recreating in and around Lake Homavalo. The footprints of the project have little to no vegetation within them.

Proposed projects at Montecito Sequoia include an outdoor kitchen facility with associated gazebo and bathhouse (Figures 2 and 6). The seasonal outdoor kitchen would be a permanent structure located on the southwest side of Lake Homavalo, just south of the existing boat shed used to store recreational equipment (Photos 1-3). The kitchen measures 18 feet by 18 feet (324 square feet) and would be located between the proposed gazebo and the replacement bathhouse. The bathhouse would use existing infrastructure in place from a previously damaged and removed bathhouse but relocated to a more central location opposite the outdoor kitchen. The bathhouse measures 18 feet by 19 feet (342 square feet), and the proposed relocation would still allow use of the previous water lines, septic tank and leach field. The gazebo with proposed deck measures 28 feet by 30 feet (840 square feet) and would extend over Lake Homavalo, with support posts both on land and in the lake. Historically the area in which these projects are proposed a beach has been created by importing sand. Although sand is no longer brought in the area remains highly disturbed sandy beach with little vegetation growing on it (see photo 1). There are some shrubs and herbs growing in the area. There is a wetland / wet meadow community adjacent to the lake to the west of the project areas. The project areas are located more than 300 feet from this community.

The proposed relocation and construction of two, four-plex cabins are roughly in the same footprint of previously existing cabins (removed in 2011). These two-story cabins, each

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measuring 26 feet by 50 feet (1,300 square feet). Currently, this area is vacant with the exception of some minimal landscaping and a single, dying red fir (Abies magnifica var. magnifica) that would likely need removed for safety reasons (Photos 8, 9). These new cabins being proposed are in the currently approved Environmental Assessment (NRM 2008), however, the desired location of these cabins has been modified slightly to improve pedestrian flow.

Rebuilding of Marmot Lodge, which is in a state of disrepair, is proposed with a slightly expanded footprint to the east to make it longer, and south to make it wider. Also proposed is the rebuilding of a cabin, Lakeside Fair, in the counselor village that was destroyed by gas leak this past winter, in the exact footprint.

And lastly, in order to preserve and service snow removal equipment, two sheds measuring 25 feet by 50 feet (1,250 square feet) are being proposed. These were added to the project after the site visit in November took place, therefore these sites were not visited.

At Stony Creek the proposed projects are within the footprint of the paved parking lot. Only hazard trees are expected to be removed, including a group of small trees to the east of the proposed project footprint (one lodgepole pine, two Jeffrey pine, four white fir) with four to eight inch dbh (diameter at breast height); a small group to the west (two Jeffrey pine, one white fir) with a maximum of ten inch dbh; and five additional white fir saplings (Photo 14). Trenching for connecting the bathhouse to the existing water lines, septic tank and leach field would occur directly across the existing parking lot.

The other project under consideration is the construction of a handicap access ramp in the current location of a wooden, landscaping container box. This would require the removal of the container and three trees (two Jeffrey pine, one sequoia), which have outgrown the landscaping container and, given their size, could pose structural damage to the lodge given the snow load potential and proximity to the roof (Photo 15). The container bed would be replaced with an ADA compliant ramp providing improved access to the lodge, restaurant and gift shop.

There is no vegetation in the footprint of this project, only pavement.

Special Status Species No rare, endangered, FSS, or CNPS list 1, 2, 3 or 4 plants were found during the site visit. Full surveys were not done due to the lateness of the season, visit was in November.

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At Stony Creek the project has no potential to impact sensitive plants species or communities. The project footprint is paved and only a few small hazard trees may be removed. At Montecito most of the project footprint is highly disturbed and it is unlikely that special status species are present. However, the visit was done outside of the blooming season and some projects (example sheds) were added after the site visit took place. As a result, we recommend botanical surveys take place prior to construction in 2020. Table 6 shows which target species have possible habitat within the project footprints at Montecito.

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Table 6. Summary of Findings for Special Status Plant Species at Montecito

Scientific Name Common Name Status Habitat Elevation Habitat (m) in the Project Area Allium abramsii Abram's onion 1B.2 Lower and upper montane coniferous 885-3050 Yes forest Angelica callii Call's angelica 4.3 Cismontane woodland, lower montane 1100- No coniferous forest: mesic 2000 Boechera tularensis Tulare rockcress 1B.3, FSS Subalpine coniferous forest, upper 1825- No montane coniferous forest: rocky 3350 slopes, sometimes roadsides Botrychium crenulatum scalloped moonwort 2B.2, FSS Upper and lower montane coniferous 1268- No forest: meadows and seeps, marshes 3280 and swamps (freshwater) Botrychium minganense Mingan moonwort 2B.2, FSS Bogs and fens, lower montane 1455- No coniferous forest, meadows and seeps 2180 (edges), upper montane coniferous forest: mesic Bruchia bolanderi Bolander's bruchia 4.2 FSS Upper and lower montane coniferous 1700- No forest: meadows and seeps 2800 Calochortus westonii Shirley Meadows star- 1B.2, FSS Lower montane coniferous forest, 1500- No tulip broadleafed upland forest: meadows 2105 and seeps Calyptridium pygmaeum pygmy pussypaws 1B.2, FSS Subalpine coniferous forest, upper 1980- Yes montane coniferous forest: sandy or 3110 gravelly Biological Assessment Natural Resources Management Corporation 53 Stony Creek and Montecito Sequoia Resorts Improvement Project December 5, 2019

Calystegia malacophylla var. berryi Berry's morning-glory 3.3 Chaparral, lower montane coniferous 610-2440 Yes forest Carlquistia muirii Muir's tarplant 1B.3, FSS Chaparral (montane), Lower and upper 755-2500 Yes montane coniferous forest: granitic Ceanothus fresnensis Fresno ceanothus 4.3 Cismontane woodland (openings), 900-2103 Yes lower montane coniferous forest Cinna bolanderi Bolander's woodreed 1B.2, FSS Upper montane coniferous forest: 1670- No meadows and seeps, mesic, 2440 streamsides Claytonia palustris marsh claytonia 4.3 Upper montane coniferous forest: 1000- No meadows and seeps (mesic), marshes 2500 and swamps, Cordylanthus rigidus ssp. short-bracted bird's-beak 4.3 Chaparral, lower and upper montane 610-2590 Yes brevibracteatus coniferous forest, pinyon and juniper woodland: openings, granitic Cordylanthus tenuis ssp. barbatus Fresno County bird's-beak 4.3 Lower montane coniferous forest 1300- Yes 2000 Cryptantha incana Tulare cryptantha 1B.3, FSS Lower montane coniferous forest: 1430- Yes gravelly or rocky 2150 Delphinium inopinum unexpected larkspur 4.3, FSS Upper montane coniferous forest: 1890- No rocky, metamorphic 2800 Dicentra nevadensis Tulare County bleeding 4.3, FSS Alpine boulder and rock field, 2200- Yes heart subalpine coniferous forest: gravelly or 3050 sandy, openings Erigeron aequifolius Hall's daisy 1B.3, FSS Broadleafed upland forest, upper and 1500- Yes lower montane coniferous forest, 2440 pinyon and juniper woodland: rocky, granitic

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Erigeron inornatus var. keilii Keil's daisy 1B.3 Lower montane coniferous forest: 1800- No meadows and seeps 2200 Eriogonum ovalifolium var. Monarch buckwheat 1B.1, FSS Mojave desert scrub, pinyon and 1800- No monarchense juniper woodland: decomposed 1815 carbonate, rocky or sandy Eriogonum prattenianum var. Kettle Dome buckwheat 4.2 Chaparral, upper and lower montane 1200- Yes avium coniferous forest: granitic or 2900 metamorphic Erythranthe sierrae Sierra Nevada 4.2 Cismontane woodland (openings), 185-2285 No monkeyflower lower montane coniferous forest (openings): Meadows and seeps (dry), usually granitic, usually sandy, sometimes gravelly, vernally wet depressions, swales, streambanks Gilia yorkii Monarch gilia 1B.1, FSS Chaparral, cismontane woodland: 1290- No carbonate outcrops 1830 Glyceria grandis American manna grass 2B.3 Bogs and fens, meadows and seeps, 15-1980 No marshes and swamps (streambanks and lake margins) Heterotheca monarchensis Monarch golden-aster 1B.1, FSS Cismontane woodland: carbonate 1095- No 1850 Hulsea brevifolia short-leaved hulsea 1B.2, FSS Upper and Lower montane coniferous 1500- Yes forest: granitic or volcanic, gravelly or 3200 sandy Ivesia campestris field ivesia 1B.2 Meadows and seeps (edges), 1975- No subalpine coniferous forest, upper 3395 montane coniferous forest Jensia yosemitana Yosemite tarplant 3.2 Lower montane coniferous forest, 1200- No meadows and seeps 2300

Biological Assessment Natural Resources Management Corporation 55 Stony Creek and Montecito Sequoia Resorts Improvement Project December 5, 2019

Lewisia congdonii Congdon's lewisia 1B.3, CR, Chaparral, cismontane woodland, 500-2800 No FFS upper and lower montane coniferous forest, valley and foothill grassland: granitic or metamorphic, rocky, mesic Meesia triquetra three-ranked hump moss 4.2 Bogs and fens, Meadows and seeps, 1300- No subalpine coniferous forest, upper 2953 montane coniferous forest: (mesic) soil Meesia uliginosa broad-nerved hump moss 2B.2, FSS Bogs and fens, meadows and seeps, 1210- No subalpine coniferous forest, upper 2804 montane coniferous forest: damp soil Mielichhoferia elongata elongate copper moss 4.3, FSS Broadleafed upland forest, chaparral, 0-1960 No cismontane woodland, coastal scrub, lower montane coniferous forest, meadows and seeps, subalpine coniferous forest: metamorphic rock, usually acidic, usually vernally mesic, often roadsides, sometimes carbonate Petrophytum caespitosum ssp. marble rockmat 1B.3, FSS Upper and lower montane coniferous 1015- Yes Acuminatum forest: carbonate or granitic, rocky 2300 Potamogeton robbinsii Robbins' pondweed 2B.3 Marshes and swamps (deep water, 1530- No lakes) 3300 Ribes tularense Sequoia gooseberry 1B.3 Upper and lower montane coniferous 1500- No forest 2075 Trichodon cylindricus cylindrical trichodon 2B.2 Broadleafed upland forest, meadows 50-2002 Yes and seeps, upper montane coniferous forest: sandy, exposed soil, roadbanks

Biological Assessment Natural Resources Management Corporation 56 Stony Creek and Montecito Sequoia Resorts Improvement Project December 5, 2019

Utricularia intermedia flat-leaved bladderwort 2B.2 Bogs and fens, meadows and seeps 1200- No (mesic), marshes and swamps (lake 2700 margins), vernal pools Viola pinetorum ssp. grisea grey-leaved violet 1B.2 Meadows and seeps, subalpine 1500- Yes coniferous forest, upper montane 3400 coniferous forest CR: California Rare. FSS: Forest Service Sensitive. CNPS Ranks: 1A-Plants Presumed Extirpated in California and Either Rare or Extinct Elsewhere, 1B-Plants Rare, Threatened, or Endangered in California and Elsewhere, 2A-Plants Presumed Extirpated in California, But Common Elsewhere, 2B-Plants Rare, Threatened, or Endangered in California, But More Common Elsewhere, 3-Plants About Which More Information is Needed - A Review List, 4-Plants of Limited Distribution - A Watch List. Threat Ranks: 0.1-Seriously threatened in California (over 80% of occurrences threatened / high degree and immediacy of threat), 0.2-Moderately threatened in California (20-80% occurrences threatened / moderate degree and immediacy of threat), 0.3-Not very threatened in California (less than 20% of occurrences threatened / low degree and immediacy of threat or no current threats known)

Biological Assessment Natural Resources Management Corporation 57 Stony Creek and Montecito Sequoia Resorts Improvement Project December 5, 2019

Natural Communities No sensitive natural communities were found within the project areas at either site. There are no sensitive natural communities within the immediate vicinity of Stony Creek. At Montecito There is a wetland/ wet meadow area to the west of the projects at the lake shore. The projects are located outside of the requires 300-foot buffer that surrounds this feature.

Cumulative Effects The proposed projects are in previously disturbed areas that are currently used for recreation purposes. The projects are unlikely to increase the number of visitors to the area. No other similar projects are currently planned in these areas. We do not expect these projects to contribute any additional cumulative effects.

Management Recommendations: Wildlife and Plants

• The GSNM Management Plan requires a 300-foot buffer from edge from Special Aquatic Features (lakes). Delineate and evaluate riparian areas prior to implementing any project activities. Site the proposed development at least 300 feet from edge of riparian vegetation, if required.

• To further ensure protection, the minimal vegetation that does need removed to allow for construction and equipment will be done outside of the migratory bird nesting season (March – August).

• Prior to the start of construction at Montecito, an in-season rare plant survey will be completed. If any sensitive species are located the USFS Hume Lake Ranger District will decide on the necessary mitigation measures.

Biological Assessment Natural Resources Management Corporation 58 Stony Creek and Montecito Sequoia Resorts Improvement Project December 5, 2019

V. References California Herps. Accessed 2019. [Internet] http://www.californiaherps.com/index.html

California Wildlife Habitat Relationships (CWHR). 2019. California Department of Fish and Wildlife [Internet] https://www.wildlife.ca.gov/Data/CWHR/Life-History-and-Range

California Native Plant Society (CNPS 1), Rare Plant Program. 2018. Inventory of Rare and Endangered Plants of California (online edition, v8-03 0.45). Website http://www.rareplants.cnps.org. Accessed 2019). California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB). 2019. Rare Find 5 and BIOS [Internet]. California Department of Fish and Wildlife [Version 5.2.14].

CALVEG, [ESRI personal geodatabase]. 2004. USDA-Forest Service, Pacific Southwest Region. McClellan, CA. EvegTile03B_99_04_v2. [2009].

Craig, D. and P. L. Williams. 1998. Willow Flycatcher (Empidonax traillii). In Riparian Bird Conservation Plan: a strategy for reversing the decline of riparian-associated birds in California. California Partners in Flight. http://www.prbo.org/calpif/htmldocs/riparian_v-2.html Holland, R.F. Unpublished report 1986. Preliminary Descriptions of the Terrestrial Plant Communities of California. State of California, The Resources Agency, Department of Fish and Game, Natural Heritage Division, Sacramento, CA.

Green, R. E. 2007. Distribution and habitat associations of forest carnivores and an evaluation of the California Wildlife Habitat Relationships (CWHR) model for American marten in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. Humboldt State University (Thesis).

Natural Resources Management (NRM) Corporation. 2008. Montecito Lake Resort Restoration Project Environmental Assessment.

Sawyer, J. O., T. Keeler-Wolf, and J. M. Evens. 2009. A Manual of California Vegetation, Second Edition. California Native Plant Society, Sacramento, CA. 2001. California Environmental Quality Act Guidelines. Office of Planning and Research, Articles 5, 7, 9, 10 & 20.

The Ecology Graduate Student Project Collective (EGSPC), and M. W. Schwartz. 2013. A Natural Resources Condition Assessment for Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks: Appendix 15b - animals of conservation concern, supplemental information. Natural Resources Report NPS/SEKI/RRR - 2013/665.15b. Biological Assessment Natural Resources Management Corporation 59 Stony Creek and Montecito Sequoia Resorts Improvement Project December 5, 2019

USDI. 2019. US Fish and Wildlife Service Official Species Lists: Montecito Sequoia Resort, Stony Creek Resort. https://ecos.fws.gov/ipac/

USDA. 2012. Management Plan, Giant Sequoia National Monument, Sequoia National Forest.

USFWS. 1996. Recovery Plan for the California Condor: Third Revision. https://ecos.fws.gov/docs/recovery_plan/960425.pdf

USFWS. 1996a. Recovery Plan for the Sacramento and San Joaquin Delta Native Fishes. https://ecos.fws.gov/docs/recovery_plan/961126.pdf

USFWS. 2019. Sacramento Fish and Wildlife Office, Endangered Species information website: https://www.fws.gov/sacramento/es_species/Accounts/

Biological Assessment Natural Resources Management Corporation 60 Stony Creek and Montecito Sequoia Resorts Improvement Project December 5, 2019

Appendix A. Pictures Taken October 15-17, 2018

Photo 1. Looking northwest at Lake Homavalo and the proposed kitchen and gazebo locations, with proposed bathhouse out of view to left; main lodge at Montecito Sequoia Resort to far left

Photo 2. Looking northeast at Lake Homavalo, boat shed to right

Photo 3. Looking west, Lake Homavalo to the right, proposed kitchen and bathhouse to right of pedestrian walkway (center) at Montecito Sequoia Resort

Photo 4. Willow patch in wetland area on north shore of Lake Homavalo (to right)

Photo 5. Looking northeast at location of new four-plex cabins at Montecito Sequoia Resort

Photo 6. Looking north at alternate view of location of new four-plex cabins at Montecito Sequoia Reort

Photo 7a-c. Views of four-plex cabins location with existing septic (looking north), electrical (looking north); alternate view of electrical (looking west) with septic (center, in distance)

Photo 8. View of location for 2 new four-plex cabins, between photographer and dying tree (center), with minimal landscaping to be removed at Montecito Sequoia Resort

Photo 9. Close up of dying red fir likely needing removed for construction of 2 new four-plex cabins at Montecito Sequoia Resort

Photo 10. John Dally on top of septic tank access located south of the laundry/bathhouse attached to staff housing at Stony Creek Resort

Photo 11a, b. Second septic tank access located north of staff housing (a), with alternate view, looking west (b) at Stony Creek Resort

Photo 12. Looking north to Stony Creek Lodge from area of proposed bathhouse, in footprint of exiting parking lot; staff housing with attached laundry/bathhouse to right

Photo 13. Looking south to proposed bathhouse location at Stony Creek Resort, within the footprint of the existing parking lot, where some small trees may need removed

Photo 14a-c. Small groups of trees to the southwest (a) and southeast (b) that may need removed for the construction of new bathhouse at Stony Creek Resort; alternate view of trees, looking west (c)

Photo 15. Landscape trees that may need removed for the construction of a potential handicap ramp at Stony Creek Lodge include a Jeffrey pine on the far left, in front of parked truck; a Sequoia tree in the middle of the lodge, to right of people; another Jeffrey pine on the right corner, in front of parked cars

Photo 16. Frog found on the northwest shore of Lake Homavalo at Montecito Sequoia Resort, apparently predated

Photo 17. Second frog found on the northwest shore of Lake Homavalo at Montecito Sequoia Resort, desiccated

Photo 18. Looking south towards main lodge at Montecito Sequoia (obscured by trees) from wetland area on northern shores of Lake Homavalo (to left)

Photo 19. Looking east towards willow patch, from vantage point of above photo, Lake Homavalo to right

Appendix B. USFWS Consultation, Sacramento Office, Official List of Threatened and Endangered Species for the Montecito Sequoia and Stony Creek Resort Improvement Projects

United States Department of the Interior FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE Sacramento Fish And Wildlife Office Federal Building 2800 Cottage Way, Room W-2605 Sacramento, CA 95825-1846 Phone: (916) 414-6600 Fax: (916) 414-6713

In Reply Refer To: August 14, 2019 Consultation Code: 08ESMF00-2019-SLI-2739 Event Code: 08ESMF00-2019-E-08770 Project Name: Stony Creek Resort Improvement Project

Subject: List of threatened and endangered species that may occur in your proposed project location, and/or may be affected by your proposed project

To Whom It May Concern:

The enclosed species list identifies threatened, endangered, proposed and candidate species, as well as proposed and final designated critical habitat, under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) that may occur within the boundary of your proposed project and/or may be affected by your proposed project. The species list fulfills the requirements of the Service under section 7(c) of the Endangered Species Act (Act) of 1973, as amended (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.).

Please follow the link below to see if your proposed project has the potential to affect other species or their habitats under the jurisdiction of the National Marine Fisheries Service: http://www.nwr.noaa.gov/protected_species/species_list/species_lists.html

New information based on updated surveys, changes in the abundance and distribution of species, changed habitat conditions, or other factors could change this list. Please feel free to contact us if you need more current information or assistance regarding the potential impacts to federally proposed, listed, and candidate species and federally designated and proposed critical habitat. Please note that under 50 CFR 402.12(e) of the regulations implementing section 7 of the Act, the accuracy of this species list should be verified after 90 days. This verification can be completed formally or informally as desired. The Service recommends that verification be completed by visiting the ECOS-IPaC website at regular intervals during project planning and implementation for updates to species lists and information. An updated list may be requested through the ECOS-IPaC system by completing the same process used to receive the enclosed list. 08/14/2019 Event Code: 08ESMF00-2019-E-08770 2

The purpose of the Act is to provide a means whereby threatened and endangered species and the ecosystems upon which they depend may be conserved. Under sections 7(a)(1) and 7(a)(2) of the Act and its implementing regulations (50 CFR 402 et seq.), Federal agencies are required to utilize their authorities to carry out programs for the conservation of threatened and endangered species and to determine whether projects may affect threatened and endangered species and/or designated critical habitat.

A Biological Assessment is required for construction projects (or other undertakings having similar physical impacts) that are major Federal actions significantly affecting the quality of the human environment as defined in the National Environmental Policy Act (42 U.S.C. 4332(2) (c)). For projects other than major construction activities, the Service suggests that a biological evaluation similar to a Biological Assessment be prepared to determine whether the project may affect listed or proposed species and/or designated or proposed critical habitat. Recommended contents of a Biological Assessment are described at 50 CFR 402.12.

If a Federal agency determines, based on the Biological Assessment or biological evaluation, that listed species and/or designated critical habitat may be affected by the proposed project, the agency is required to consult with the Service pursuant to 50 CFR 402. In addition, the Service recommends that candidate species, proposed species and proposed critical habitat be addressed within the consultation. More information on the regulations and procedures for section 7 consultation, including the role of permit or license applicants, can be found in the "Endangered Species Consultation Handbook" at: http://www.fws.gov/endangered/esa-library/pdf/TOC-GLOS.PDF

Please be aware that bald and golden eagles are protected under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act (16 U.S.C. 668 et seq.), and projects affecting these species may require development of an eagle conservation plan (http://www.fws.gov/windenergy/ eagle_guidance.html). Additionally, wind energy projects should follow the wind energy guidelines (http://www.fws.gov/windenergy/) for minimizing impacts to migratory birds and bats.

Guidance for minimizing impacts to migratory birds for projects including communications towers (e.g., cellular, digital television, radio, and emergency broadcast) can be found at: http:// www.fws.gov/migratorybirds/CurrentBirdIssues/Hazards/towers/towers.htm; http:// www.towerkill.com; and http://www.fws.gov/migratorybirds/CurrentBirdIssues/Hazards/towers/ comtow.html.

We appreciate your concern for threatened and endangered species. The Service encourages Federal agencies to include conservation of threatened and endangered species into their project planning to further the purposes of the Act. Please include the Consultation Tracking Number in the header of this letter with any request for consultation or correspondence about your project that you submit to our office.

08/14/2019 Event Code: 08ESMF00-2019-E-08770 3

Attachment(s):

▪ Official Species List

08/14/2019 Event Code: 08ESMF00-2019-E-08770 1

Official Species List This list is provided pursuant to Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act, and fulfills the requirement for Federal agencies to "request of the Secretary of the Interior information whether any species which is listed or proposed to be listed may be present in the area of a proposed action".

This species list is provided by:

Sacramento Fish And Wildlife Office Federal Building 2800 Cottage Way, Room W-2605 Sacramento, CA 95825-1846 (916) 414-6600

08/14/2019 Event Code: 08ESMF00-2019-E-08770 2

Project Summary Consultation Code: 08ESMF00-2019-SLI-2739

Event Code: 08ESMF00-2019-E-08770

Project Name: Stony Creek Resort Improvement Project

Project Type: SPECIAL USE PERMIT

Project Description: The Stony Creek Lodge would have the landscape container and contents removed to construct an ADA access ramp. A permanent bathhouse would be constructed in the footprint of the parking lot to replace the bathrooms on trailer that are seasonally brought in; also updates to adjacent staff bathhouse.

Project Location: Approximate location of the project can be viewed in Google Maps: https:// www.google.com/maps/place/36.66394815221899N118.84057055711631W

Counties: Tulare, CA

08/14/2019 Event Code: 08ESMF00-2019-E-08770 3

Endangered Species Act Species There is a total of 4 threatened, endangered, or candidate species on this species list.

Species on this list should be considered in an effects analysis for your project and could include species that exist in another geographic area. For example, certain fish may appear on the species list because a project could affect downstream species.

IPaC does not display listed species or critical habitats under the sole jurisdiction of NOAA Fisheries1, as USFWS does not have the authority to speak on behalf of NOAA and the Department of Commerce.

See the "Critical habitats" section below for those critical habitats that lie wholly or partially within your project area under this office's jurisdiction. Please contact the designated FWS office if you have questions.

1. NOAA Fisheries, also known as the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), is an office of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration within the Department of Commerce.

Mammals NAME STATUS Fisher Pekania pennanti Proposed Population: West coast DPS Threatened No critical habitat has been designated for this species. Species profile: https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/3651

Birds NAME STATUS California Condor Gymnogyps californianus Endangered Population: U.S.A. only, except where listed as an experimental population There is final critical habitat for this species. Your location is outside the critical habitat. Species profile: https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/8193

Amphibians NAME STATUS Mountain Yellow-legged Frog Rana muscosa Endangered Population: Northern California DPS There is final critical habitat for this species. Your location is outside the critical habitat. Species profile: https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/8037

08/14/2019 Event Code: 08ESMF00-2019-E-08770 4

Fishes NAME STATUS Delta Smelt Hypomesus transpacificus Threatened There is final critical habitat for this species. Your location is outside the critical habitat. Species profile: https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/321

Critical habitats THERE ARE NO CRITICAL HABITATS WITHIN YOUR PROJECT AREA UNDER THIS OFFICE'S JURISDICTION.

United States Department of the Interior FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE Sacramento Fish And Wildlife Office Federal Building 2800 Cottage Way, Room W-2605 Sacramento, CA 95825-1846 Phone: (916) 414-6600 Fax: (916) 414-6713

In Reply Refer To: August 13, 2019 Consultation Code: 08ESMF00-2019-SLI-2735 Event Code: 08ESMF00-2019-E-08760 Project Name: Montecito Sequoia Resort Improvement Project

Subject: List of threatened and endangered species that may occur in your proposed project location, and/or may be affected by your proposed project

To Whom It May Concern:

The enclosed species list identifies threatened, endangered, proposed and candidate species, as well as proposed and final designated critical habitat, under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) that may occur within the boundary of your proposed project and/or may be affected by your proposed project. The species list fulfills the requirements of the Service under section 7(c) of the Endangered Species Act (Act) of 1973, as amended (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.).

Please follow the link below to see if your proposed project has the potential to affect other species or their habitats under the jurisdiction of the National Marine Fisheries Service: http://www.nwr.noaa.gov/protected_species/species_list/species_lists.html

New information based on updated surveys, changes in the abundance and distribution of species, changed habitat conditions, or other factors could change this list. Please feel free to contact us if you need more current information or assistance regarding the potential impacts to federally proposed, listed, and candidate species and federally designated and proposed critical habitat. Please note that under 50 CFR 402.12(e) of the regulations implementing section 7 of the Act, the accuracy of this species list should be verified after 90 days. This verification can be completed formally or informally as desired. The Service recommends that verification be completed by visiting the ECOS-IPaC website at regular intervals during project planning and implementation for updates to species lists and information. An updated list may be requested through the ECOS-IPaC system by completing the same process used to receive the enclosed list. 08/13/2019 Event Code: 08ESMF00-2019-E-08760 2

The purpose of the Act is to provide a means whereby threatened and endangered species and the ecosystems upon which they depend may be conserved. Under sections 7(a)(1) and 7(a)(2) of the Act and its implementing regulations (50 CFR 402 et seq.), Federal agencies are required to utilize their authorities to carry out programs for the conservation of threatened and endangered species and to determine whether projects may affect threatened and endangered species and/or designated critical habitat.

A Biological Assessment is required for construction projects (or other undertakings having similar physical impacts) that are major Federal actions significantly affecting the quality of the human environment as defined in the National Environmental Policy Act (42 U.S.C. 4332(2) (c)). For projects other than major construction activities, the Service suggests that a biological evaluation similar to a Biological Assessment be prepared to determine whether the project may affect listed or proposed species and/or designated or proposed critical habitat. Recommended contents of a Biological Assessment are described at 50 CFR 402.12.

If a Federal agency determines, based on the Biological Assessment or biological evaluation, that listed species and/or designated critical habitat may be affected by the proposed project, the agency is required to consult with the Service pursuant to 50 CFR 402. In addition, the Service recommends that candidate species, proposed species and proposed critical habitat be addressed within the consultation. More information on the regulations and procedures for section 7 consultation, including the role of permit or license applicants, can be found in the "Endangered Species Consultation Handbook" at: http://www.fws.gov/endangered/esa-library/pdf/TOC-GLOS.PDF

Please be aware that bald and golden eagles are protected under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act (16 U.S.C. 668 et seq.), and projects affecting these species may require development of an eagle conservation plan (http://www.fws.gov/windenergy/ eagle_guidance.html). Additionally, wind energy projects should follow the wind energy guidelines (http://www.fws.gov/windenergy/) for minimizing impacts to migratory birds and bats.

Guidance for minimizing impacts to migratory birds for projects including communications towers (e.g., cellular, digital television, radio, and emergency broadcast) can be found at: http:// www.fws.gov/migratorybirds/CurrentBirdIssues/Hazards/towers/towers.htm; http:// www.towerkill.com; and http://www.fws.gov/migratorybirds/CurrentBirdIssues/Hazards/towers/ comtow.html.

We appreciate your concern for threatened and endangered species. The Service encourages Federal agencies to include conservation of threatened and endangered species into their project planning to further the purposes of the Act. Please include the Consultation Tracking Number in the header of this letter with any request for consultation or correspondence about your project that you submit to our office.

08/13/2019 Event Code: 08ESMF00-2019-E-08760 3

Attachment(s):

▪ Official Species List

08/13/2019 Event Code: 08ESMF00-2019-E-08760 1

Official Species List This list is provided pursuant to Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act, and fulfills the requirement for Federal agencies to "request of the Secretary of the Interior information whether any species which is listed or proposed to be listed may be present in the area of a proposed action".

This species list is provided by:

Sacramento Fish And Wildlife Office Federal Building 2800 Cottage Way, Room W-2605 Sacramento, CA 95825-1846 (916) 414-6600

08/13/2019 Event Code: 08ESMF00-2019-E-08760 2

Project Summary Consultation Code: 08ESMF00-2019-SLI-2735

Event Code: 08ESMF00-2019-E-08760

Project Name: Montecito Sequoia Resort Improvement Project

Project Type: SPECIAL USE PERMIT

Project Description: Located within Giant Sequoia National Monument, this historic resort is wanting to expand and improve services, including the building of an outdoor kitchen, bathhouse and gazebo adjacent to Lake Homavalo. In addition, cabins and bathhouses previously destroyed by fire will be replaced, and additional accommodations within resort footprint built.

Project Location: Approximate location of the project can be viewed in Google Maps: https:// www.google.com/maps/place/36.695775712913935N118.8739174222715W

Counties: Tulare, CA

08/13/2019 Event Code: 08ESMF00-2019-E-08760 3

Endangered Species Act Species There is a total of 4 threatened, endangered, or candidate species on this species list.

Species on this list should be considered in an effects analysis for your project and could include species that exist in another geographic area. For example, certain fish may appear on the species list because a project could affect downstream species.

IPaC does not display listed species or critical habitats under the sole jurisdiction of NOAA Fisheries1, as USFWS does not have the authority to speak on behalf of NOAA and the Department of Commerce.

See the "Critical habitats" section below for those critical habitats that lie wholly or partially within your project area under this office's jurisdiction. Please contact the designated FWS office if you have questions.

1. NOAA Fisheries, also known as the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), is an office of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration within the Department of Commerce.

Mammals NAME STATUS Fisher Pekania pennanti Proposed Population: West coast DPS Threatened No critical habitat has been designated for this species. Species profile: https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/3651

Birds NAME STATUS California Condor Gymnogyps californianus Endangered Population: U.S.A. only, except where listed as an experimental population There is final critical habitat for this species. Your location is outside the critical habitat. Species profile: https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/8193

Amphibians NAME STATUS Mountain Yellow-legged Frog Rana muscosa Endangered Population: Northern California DPS There is final critical habitat for this species. Your location is outside the critical habitat. Species profile: https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/8037

08/13/2019 Event Code: 08ESMF00-2019-E-08760 4

Fishes NAME STATUS Delta Smelt Hypomesus transpacificus Threatened There is final critical habitat for this species. Your location is outside the critical habitat. Species profile: https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/321

Critical habitats THERE ARE NO CRITICAL HABITATS WITHIN YOUR PROJECT AREA UNDER THIS OFFICE'S JURISDICTION.

Appendix C. USFWS Sacramento Office, Scoping Letter Response

Subject: Re: [EXTERNAL] Project Scoping Montecito Sequoia and Stony Creek Resorts

Date:Mon, 24 Jun 2019 13:30:00 -0700

From:Seymour, Jill-Marie

To:[email protected]

Good afternoon Ms. McKenzie,

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Sacramento Fish and Wildlife Office (Service) has reviewed the scoping letter for the Stony Creek and Montecito Sequoia Resorts facilities updates, provided to us on June 24, 2019.

The proposed projects are within the range of the federally threatened northern distinct population segment of the mountain yellow-legged frog (Rana muscosa) and a historical record of the species occurs near the Montecito Sequoia Resort, at approximately 6 road miles southeast of General Grant Grove, Kings Canyon National Park. Given the small number of known extant populations of R. muscosa in the Sierra Nevada, the Service recommends that, as part of the environmental review process, at least one species-specific visual survey for R. muscosa and suitable habitat for the species be conducted in the action area by a U.S. Forest Service-approved biologist who has knowledge and experience with the species. This survey will inform the environmental review and permitting process.

This concludes the Service's response to your request for comments.

Sincerely,

Jill Seymour

Appendix D. USFS Hume Lake Ranger District Amphibian Survey, Lake Homavalo, August 19