;'

Appendix A

Resource Management Program

CONSULTING

RESOURCE MANAGEMENT PROGRAM FOR THE SANTAANA HEIGHTS JOINT USE CHANNEL MAINTENANCE/EQ1JESTRIAN FACILITY, NEWPORT BEACH, CALIFORNIA

Prepared far City of Newport Beoch Plonnlng Deportment 3300 Newpart Boulevard P.O. Box 1768 Newport Beach. California 92658-8915 Contact: MS. Rosalinh Ung T: (949) 644-3208

Prepared by BonTerra Consulting 151 Kalmus Drive. Suite E-200 Costa Meso. California 92626 Contact: Melissa A. Howe. Associate Principal/Restoration Ecologist or Stacie Tennant. Seniar Project Manager/Wildlife Biologist T: (714) 444-9199 F: (714) 444-9599 www.BonTerraConsulting.com

May 20.2008 Santa Ana Heights Equestrian Facility

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Section

1.0 INTRODUCTION 1

2.0 PROGRAM BACKGROUND 1 2.1 Project Description/Summary 1 2.2 Existing Biological Resources 2 2.2.1 Vegetation Types 3 2.2.2 Wildlife 3 r 2.2.3 Special Status Plant and Animal Species 3 2.2.4 Potential Impacts 5

3.0 RESPONSIBLE ENTITIES 6

4.0 HABITAT RESTORATION 6 4.1 Southern Tarplant 7 4.1.1 Site Selection (Onsite or Offsite): 7 4. 1.2 Seed Collection 7 4.1.3 Installation 7 4. 1.4 Long Term Maintenance 8 4.1.5 Long Term Monitoring 9 4.1.6 Performance Standards 9 L 4.2 Coastal Sage Scrub 9 4.2. 1 Site Description 9 4.2.2 Installation 9 4.2.3 Long Term Maintenance 11 4.2.4 Monitoring of Restoration Site 11

5.0 RESOURCE PROTECTION 12 5.1 Impact Avoidance and Minimization 12 L 5. 1. 1 Biological Surveys 12 5.1.2 Initial Protection Measures 13 5.1.3 Ongoing Management and Protection Measures 15

6.0 REFERENCES 18

L.o TABLES

Table Page

1 Plant Species 11

R:\ProjeetsINewport\J012\R MP-052008.doc Resource Management Plan

L Santa Ana Heights Equestrian Facility

LIST OF EXHIBITS

Exhibit No. Follows Page

1 Regional Location 1 2 Local Vicinity 1 3 Concept Grading Plan 1 4 Biological Resources 1

Appendices

A Conceptual Landscape Plan

R:\Projeets\Newport\J012\RMP·052008.doc Resource Management Plan Santa Ana Heights Equestrian Facility 1.0 INTRODUCTION

The Resource Management Program (RMP) described herein provides guidelines for protection of existing natural resources during the construction and ongoing operation of the Santa Ana Heights Joint Use Channei Maintenance/Equestrian Facility project (the Project). The Project is located on elevated bluff areas that extend along the north side of the Back Bay in Newport Beach and is within the Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve. The project site has been used as an un-official, "informal riding area" (as designated by the Central-Coastal Subregional Natural Community Conservation Plan/Habitat Conservation Plan [NCCP/HCPj) by local residents over at least the past 40 years. The proposed Project will establish formal equestrian facilities that will serve nearby residents and equestrian enthusiasts while providing for the ongoing protection of biological and water resources through a series of permanent Best Management Practice (BMP) features and resource protection measures. The project also includes the restoration of coastal sage scrub in a disturbed area adjacent to the project site. Resource protection measures have been developed in compliance with the goals and objectives specific to the recreational activities permitted within the reserve system as required by Nature Reserve of Orange County (NROC) and set forth in the NCCP/HCP (County of Orange 1996).

The project site is located on Orange County Flood Control District properties in the City of Newport Beach, Orange County, California, on the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Newport Beach 7.5-minute topographic quadrangle (Exhibits 1 and 2). The project site is 2.92 acres in size and is located at the southern end of North University Drive, east of Irvine Avenue and adjacent to the Santa Ana/Delhi Flood Control Channel, which extends along the northwestern boundary of the project site (Exhibit 2). The elevation of the project site ranges from 20 to 40 feet above mean sea level. Land uses in the vicinity of the project site include the Newport Bay Ecological Reserve, recreation, residential, and commercial.

The RMP described herein provides for compliance with resource agency, NROC, and NCCP goals, objectives and requirements for equestrian/recreational activities. Specifically the program will provide guidelines for:

• Protection of, and minimization of impacts to undisturbed adjacent native habitat areas during project construction and ongoing operations; • Protection of water quality within the adjacent channel and wetland resources located downstream of the project site in the Back Bay area; and • Restoration of native habitats.

2.0 PROGRAM BACKGROUND

2.1 PROJECT DESCRIPTION/SUMMARY

The City of Newport Beach (City), is proposing to implement the Project to provide equestrian recreational opportunities for nearby residents while protecting preserved biological resources and water quality, and allowing a portion of 'the mesa" to be revegetated with native habitat (coastal sage scrub). The proposed equestrian facilities include three riding arenas of varying sizes, a redefinedlrelocated riding and hiking trail (Mesa Trail), and a treatment train of storm water runoff treatment control BMPs situated throughout the Project (Exhibit 3). More than half of the proposed facility is located within the Central Coastal NCCP/HCP Reserve (Exhibit 4). Proposed BMPs consist of two vegetated swales that will convey runoff through the project site. The first swale will convey only project-related flows while the second swale will capture flows that are generated upstream of the project site. Each of the two proposed swales will include a series of water quality basins or storm water catchment ponds which will be planted with

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• Approximate California Gnatcatcher Sighting -- Existing Trail

1 o NCCP Reserve Boundary ~ CSS Restoration Site Southern Tarplant Locations I o Project Boundary Biological Resources Exhibit 4 Santa Ana Heights Equestrian Project " w-hicslEx4_BR_051508,pdf Santa Ana Heights Equestrian Facility

species capable of withstanding infrequent flood inundation while providing uptake of potential storm water pollutants. Storm water runoff will be impounded in the catchment/detention basins to allow for pollutant uptake and percolation into the soil.

The project site is located at the intersection of four current or future riding and hiking trails: the Irvine Coast Regional Riding & Hiking Trail; the 'Trail"; the Mesa Drive Trail; and an unnamed trail within a developed portion of the Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve. The Irvine Coast Regional Riding & Hiking Trail is proposed to extend along San Diego Creek and north side of Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve. The 'Trail" will ultimately continue west until it connects with the Santa Ana Heights Regional Riding & Hiking Trail at the Santa Ana/Delhi Flood Control Channel. The 'Trail" begins at the Orange County Fair Grounds and follows road and channel rights-of-way to its confluence with the Irvine Coast Regional Riding & Hiking Trail. The Mesa Drive Trail is a local master planned trail that connects trail users from the Cypress Street Trail and extends along Mesa Drive, and then veers south along a gravel service road to its I connection with the Irvine Coast Regional Riding & Hiking Trail and Santa Ana Heights Trail. A fourth trail, located in the developed area of the County's Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve, will also connect to the other three trails. Appendix A shows the locations of these four riding I and hiking trails in the vicinity of the project site. 2.2 EXISTING BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES [ This section summarizes existing conditions and natural resources within the project site and adjacent to the project site and the anticipated types of impacts to these resources associated [ with the proposed Project. BonTerra Consulting Senior Biologist Sandra Leatherman and Ecologist Jennifer Pareti r conducted a biological constraints survey on June 27, 2006. The purpose of the survey was to describe the vegetation and evaluate the potential of habitats to support special status plant and wildlife species on the Project site. A literature review was conducted prior to the initiation of the field survey in order to determine the potential special status plant and wildlife species known to occur in the project vicinity that may occur on the Project site. The California Native Plant Society's (CNPS) Online Inventory of Rare and Endangered Vascular Plants of California (CNPS 2006), the California Department of Fish and Game's (CDFG) and the United States Fish and Wildlife Service's (USFWS) species lists, and the California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB) (CDFG 2006) were reviewed during the literature review.

All plant species observed were recorded in field notes. Plant species were identified in the field or collected for future identification. Plants were identified using keys in Hickman (1993), Munz (1974), and Abrams (1923-1960). Taxonomy follows Hickman (1993) and current scientific data (e.g., scientific journals) for scientific and common names. The Sunset Western Garden Book (Brenzel 1995) was used for ornamental species that were not included in the references listed above.

All wildlife species detected during the course of the survey were documented in field notes. Active searches for reptiles and amphibians included lifting, overturning, and carefully replacing rocks and debris. Birds were identified by visuai and auditory recognition. Surveys for mammals were conducted during the day and included searching for and identifying diagnostic sign, including scat, footprints, scratch-outs, dust bowls, burrows, and trails. Taxonomy and nomenclature for wildlife generally follows Fisher and Case (1997) for amphibians and reptiles, American Ornithologists Union (2006) for birds, and Baker et al. (2003) for mammals.

R:\ProjeCls\NewportIJ012\RMP-052008.doc 2 Resource Management Plan Santa Ana Heights Equestrian Facility

2.2.1 Vegetation Types

The project site is highly disturbed as a result of past grading and related activities associated with the maintenance of the adjacent Santa Ana/Delhi Flood Control Channel. Vegetation on the project site consists of ruderal vegetation. Ruderal vegetation is dominated by common horseweed (Conyza canadensis), fascicled tarweed (Hemizonia fasciculate), and southern tarplant (Hemizonia parryi ssp. australis). Areas adjacent to the project site consist of ornamental and coastal sage scrub vegetation and open, bare areas that are currently used as unofficial riding areas.

2.2.2 Wildlife

The bird species observed during the survey were common raven (Corvus corax) , California towhee (Pipilo crissalis), and black phoebe (Sayornis nigricans). The coastal California gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica californica) (CAGN) was observed adjacent to the project site in the coastal sage scrub vegetation (Exhibit 4). Mammal species observed were desert cottontail (Sylvilagus audubonit) and horse (Equus cabal/us). Common reptile species expected to occur on the project site include western fence lizard (Sceloporus occidentalis) and side­ blotched lizard (Uta stansburiana). No amphibian species were observed on the project site.

2.2.3 Special Status Plant and Animal Species

Plants and animals considered to have "special status" include those species listed by the state or federal governments as Endangered, Threatened or Rare and species, which are candidate for future listing. It also encompasses California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) "rare and endangered" species, noted species of Orange County, and the CNPS rare piant inventory. Following is a summary of special status plant and animal species that could potentially occur within the project site.

Special Status Plants

Several special status plant species are known to occur in the project region. Six of these species are listed as federally and/or state Threatened or Endangered. These species include Ventura marsh milk-vetch (Astragalus pycnostachyus var. lanosissimus), San Fernando Valley spineflower (Chorizanthe parryivar. fernandina) salt marsh bird's beak (Cordylanthus maritimus ssp. maritimus) , Laguna Beach dudleya (Dudleya stolonifera), Gambel's water cress (Rorippa gambelil) , and crownbeard (Verbesina dissita). However, none of these species have potential to occur on the project site due to the lack of suitable habitat. Salt marsh bird's beak is known close to the project site in the Upper Newport Bay but there is not suitable habitat on the project site.

In addition, several CNPS List 1B and List 2 species have been reported by the CNDDB and are known to occur in the project region. These species include wart-stemmed aphanisma (Aphanisma blitoides), Coulter's saltbush (Atriplex coulten), Parish's brittlescale (Atriplex parishil), Davidson's saltscale (Atriplex serenana var. davidsonit) , intermediate mariposa lily (Calochortus weedii var. intermedius), southern tarplant (Centromadia [HemizoniaJ parryi ssp. australis), Orcutt's pincushion (Chaenactis glabriuscula var. orcutfiana), many-stemmed dudleya (Dudleya multicaulis) , cliff spurge (Euphorbia misera), mesa horkelia (Horkelia cuneata ssp. puberula), decumbent goldenbush (Isocoma menziesii var. decumbens), Coulter's goldfields (Lasthenia glabrata ssp. coulten) mud nama (Nama stenocarpum), prostrate navarretia (Navarretia prostrate), coast woolly-heads (Nemacaulis denudate var. denudate), Nuttall's scrub oak (Quercus dumosa) , salt spring checkerbloom (Sidalcea neomexicana), estuary seablite (Suaeda esteroa), and San Bernardino aster (Symphyotrichum defoliatum). The only species

R:\ProjeCls\NewportIJ012\RMP·052008. doc 3 Resource Management Plan Santa Ana Heights Equestrian Facility with potential due to the disturbed nature of the habitat and the limited vegetation is southern tarplant. Southern tarplant was observed during the general surveys and is discussed below.

Southern Tarplant

Southern tarplant was observed on the project site (Exhibit 4). It is a CNPS List 1B species, and typically blooms from May to November. This species, belonging to the sunflower family, grows in seasonally moist (saline) grasslands near the coast. It historically occurred from Santa Barbara County south to Baja California, Mexico. In Orange County, this species historically occurred in flood channels in Irvine, Newport Back Bay, Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve, Santa Ana, Rossmoor, Cypress, Westminster, and Garden Grove. Urbanization, vehicles, and foot traffic threaten this species. Approximately 129 individuals, located within six locations, were observed on and adjacent to the project site. Exhibit 4 shows the location of the individuals observed within portions of the project site.

Southern Tarplant Location A

Location A supported approximately 100 southern tarplant plants. Ninety percent of these plants were vegetative and 10 percent were in flower. These plants were located in Myford sandy loam soils in the southwest portion of the project site adjacent to the coastal sage scrub. Associated species include Caiifornia sagebrush (Artemisia californica), tocalote (Centaurea melitensis), and fascicled tarweed.

Southern Tarplant Location B

Location B supported one vegetative southern tarplant. This plant was located in Myford sandy loam soils in the southwest portion of the project site adjacent to the coastal sage scrub. Associated species include California sagebrush, tocalote, and fascicled tarweed.

Southern Tarplant Location C

Location C supported one vegetative southern tarplant. This plant was located in Myford sandy loam soils in the western portion of the project site in the center of the disturbed area. Associated species included common horseweed.

Southern Tarolant Location 0

Location 0 supported one vegetative southern tarplant. This plant was located in Myford sandy loam soils in the western portion of the project site in the center of the disturbed area. Associated species included common horseweed.

Southern Tarplant Location E

Location E supported one vegetative southern tarplant. This plant was located in Myford sandy loam soils in the western portion of the project site in the center of the disturbed area. Associated species inciuded common horseweed.

Southern Tarpiant Location F

Location F supported 25 southern tarplant plants. Ninety percent of these plants were vegetative and 10 percent were in flower. These plants were located in Myford sandy loam soils in the western portion of the project site in the center of the disturbed area. Associated species included common horseweed.

R:\Projeets\Newport\J012\RMP·052008.doc 4 Resource Management Plan [ Santa Ana Heights Equestrian Facility

It is estimated that approximately 50 southern tarplant individuals will be impacted by Project I construction. Special Status Animals

I Several special status wildlife species are known to occur in the region; however, only Threatened or Endangered species typically present constraints to development. Coastal California gnatcatcher has potential to occur immediately adjacent to the project site and is [ discussed below. San Diego fairy shrimp (Branchinecta sandiegonensis), western snowy plover (Charadrius alexandrinus nivosus) , tidewater goby (Eucyclogobius newberryl), California black rail (Lateral/us jamaicensis coturniculus), Belding's savannah sparrow (Passerculus [ sandwichensis beldingl) , Pacific pocket mouse (Perognathus longimembris pacificus) , Iight­ footed clapper rail (Ral/us longirostris levipes), California least tern (Sterna antillarum brownt), and least Bell's vireo (Vireo Bel/ii pusillus) are not expected to occur on the project site due to I lack of suitable habitat. [ Coastal California Gnatcatcher The coastal California gnatcatcher is listed as federally Threatened and a California Species of Special Concern. The coastal sage scrub adjacent to the project site is occupied by this species [ (Exhibit 4). The presence of this species presents a significant project constraint if the coastal sage scrub (CSS) is to be directly impacted. However, no direct impacts to the gnatcatcher are anticipated because none of the CSS will be impacted by project implementation. In addition, indirect impacts associated with noise and equestrian activities would not be increased beyond I those activities occurring at the present time. The Project will be beneficial to the CAGN because the Project includes a CSS restoration feature; this includes establishment of CSS species within an existing barren knoll above the project site and is summarized in Section 3.0. l Special Status Vegetation Types

In addition to providing an inventory of special status plant and wildlife species, the CNDDB also provides an inventory of vegetation types that are considered special status by the state and federal resource agencies, academic institutions, and various conservation groups (such as the CNPS). Determination of the level of sensitivity is based on the Nature Conservancy Heritage Program Status Ranks that rank both species and vegetation types on a global and statewide basis according to the number and size of remaining occurrences as well as recognized threats (e.g., proposed developments, habitat degradation, and invasion by non-native species). No special status vegetation types occur on the project site; however, the coastal sage scrub adjacent to the project site would be considered a special status vegetation type.

2.2.4 Potential Impacts

Potential impacts to existing biological resources within and adjacent to the project site due to construction and ongoing operation may include the following:

• Clearing of southern tarplant; • Disturbance of wildlife species; • Sediment and manure deposition into adjacent stream channels as well as Upper Newport Bay; and • Dust accumulation on native vegetation.

The next three sections provide a summary of key individuals/entities responsible for program implementation, habitat restoration efforts (both the CSS restoration feature and the

R:\Projeets\Newport\J012\RMP·052008.doc 5 Resource Management Plan Santa Ana Heights Equestrian Facility replacement of southern tarplant) as well as impact minimization and protection measures to be implemented during project construction and long-term project site management.

3.0 RESPONSIBLE ENTITIES

Successful implementation of initial and ongoing Project BMPs and other resource protection measures, as well as the tarplant mitigation and CSS restoration components will depend upon the cooperative efforts of the City, the General Contractor, the Landscape Contractor, Seed Collector, and the Biological Monitor. The following outlines the various functions and responsibilities of these entities and individuals.

• City of Newport Beach. The City will be responsible for retaining the General Contractor, the Landscape Contractor, and the Biological Monitor. The City will be responsible for general oversight of Project construction, habitat restoration efforts, and ongoing facility management, The City will ultimately be responsible for the successful implementation of resource protection and restoration measures described in the following sections.

• General Contractor. The General Contractor will be responsible for Project construction and Implementation of resource protection measures described in the following sections.

• Landscape Contractor. The Landscape Contractor will be experienced with the installation and maintenance of upland habitat restoration programs typical of southern California. The Landscape Contractor will be responsible for implementing resource protection measures, as appropriate, and performing the site preparation, plant establishment, and maintenance activities described in the following sections for both the tarplant and CSS restoration programs.

• Seed Collector. The Seed Collector will be experienced in the collection and treatment of native seed materials in southern California. The Seed Collector will be responsible for collecting seed materials (southern tarplant and CSS) from onsite and offsite areas under the direction of the Biological Monitor.

• Biological Monitor. The Biological Monitor will be experienced in habitat restoration program planning and monitoring, the implementation of resource protection measures, and the evaluation of biological resources. It should be noted that the term "Biological Monitor" could include one or more persons with the technical expertise to perform habitat restoration design, monitoring, and biological evaluations (such as nesting bird surveys). The Biological Monitor will be responsible for performance of any required biological evaluations (including nesting bird surveys), monitoring the implementation of resource protection measures, and monitoring implementation of the tarplant and CSS restoration components.

The City, General Contractor, Landscape Contractor, Seed Collector, and Biological Monitor will coordinate with one another as appropriate during the implementation of the resource protection measures and habitat restoration programs described in the following sections.

4.0 HABITAT RESTORATION

As noted above, the Project includes a CSS restoration feature that will be implemented in disturbed areas adjacent to the project site (Exhibit 4). Southern tarplant will be established either within the project site or in suitable offsite areas. This section summarizes both the CSS

A:\ProjeetS\Newport\J012\AMP·052008.dOC 6 Resource Management Plan Santa Ana Heights Equestrian Facility r restoration feature and the southern tarplant mitigation program; detailed habitat restoration and establishment programs will be addressed in separate documents. r 4.1 SOUTHERN TARPLANT A southern tarplant mitigation program is required by the Mitigated Negative Declaration (MND) for the Project (MM-1) to compensate for Project impacts to southern tarplant. The following r subsection provides guidelines for implementing the southern tarplant mitigation program in compliance with the Project MND and the NROC Habitat Restoration and Enhancement Plan guidelines. Detailed, implementation level plans will be developed based on the guidelines presented below. r 4.1.1 Site Selection (Onsite or Offsite) r The Biological Monitor will identify the southern tarplant mitigation site in coordination with the City. The site will be located in an onsite or ottsite dedicated open space area. Appropriate sites will have suitable hydrology, soils, and any other factors necessary for the establishment of [ southern tarplant. 4.1.2 Seed Collection

The tarplant individuals to be impacted will be delineated in the field with lath and flagging by the project engineers or General Contractor under the direction of the Biological Monitor. The r tarplant phenology will be monitored by the Seed Collector to determine the appropriate timing for seed collection. Tarplant seed will be collected from all tarplants within the impact area once it has been determined tarplants have set seed. A Biological Monitor will be present during collection activities to monitor the seed collection, ensuring that seed is only collected from plants that will be impacted by the Project. Upon completion of seed collection, the Seed Collector will clean the seeds in preparation for the seeding ettort. If necessary, seed materials will be temporarily stored in a dark, cool place and not be allowed to become damp.

4.1.3 Installation

Southern tarplant mitigation installation will include site preparation and plant establishment activities performed by the Landscape Contractor as described below.

Site Preparation

Site preparation will include:

• Soil Preparation. Soils will be ripped or disced prior to plant establishment to alleviate any soil compaction that exists within the site.

• Weed Control. All weed species will be removed prior to plant establishment activities.

• Trash Removal. All trash and debris will be removed from the restoration site prior to plant establishment.

• Irrigation Installation. Temporary irrigation will consist of either an overhead and/or drip system or use of a water truck (or other hand-watering methods), as determined during detailed plan development.

R:\Projeets\Newport\J012\RMP-052008.doc 7 Resource Management Plan Santa Ana Heights Equestrian Facility

Plant Establishment

Plant establishment within the tarplant mitigation site will include broadcasting the collected tarplant seed as well as supplemental native plant seed that consists of species typically associated with southern tarplant. A final seed mix will be provided in the detailed restoration plans. This information will be developed based on an evaluation of existing native habitat within and adjacent to the project site by the Biological Monitor.

Native plant materials will be obtained from reputable and technically experienced native seed suppliers. Plant materials will be collected as much as possible from sources within the project site and other local plant sources within 30 miles of the project site, and should be obtained from areas that have similar habitat conditions to the project site. Using site-specific and local plant sources will minimize the establishment of non-local genetic material within the restoration site. The Biological Monitor will approve the seed mix and the collection sources before seed materials are packaged.

Seed broadcasting will be performed between October and January 30, and during those periods when weather and soil conditions are suitable. In this way, seasonal rains can be used to facilitate appropriate establishment and germination.

• Seed Mix Application. Seeding will occur by hand, as determined during detailed plan development. Powdered myccorhizal inoculant will be used in the supplemental seed mix, as appropriate; to facilitate plant establishment and out-competition of weed species.

A detailed description of seed broadcast methodologies will be provided in the detailed restoration plan. Once initial seeding activities have been completed, a permanent fence will be installed around the perimeter of the site to provide ongoing protection.

4.1.4 Long Term Maintenance

Maintenance of the southern tarplant mitigation site will be initiated immediately after the completion of seeding activities and will extend for up to five years. The Landscape Contractor will implement the maintenance tasks listed below.

• Irrigation system operation, repair, and maintenance (if a formal system is used) • Supplemental wateringlirrigation, application, and schedule adjustment • Weed species control (to include, as appropriate, hand removal and mechanical removal) • Herbivory control • Protection of the restoration site • Erosion control • Reseeding (as needed) • Trash and debris removal

The Landscape Contractor will be responsible for timely coordination with the City and the Biological Monitor regarding site status and the performance of appropriate maintenance and remedial actions that facilitate successful plant establishment. All maintenance activities will be performed in a manner that results in successful site establishment, preservation and protection of existing resources, and compliance with site-specific performance standards.

R:\Projeets\NewponIJ012\RMp·052008.doc 8 Resource Management Plan I Santa Ana Heights Equestrian Facility 4.1.5 Long Term Monitoring r Monitoring will be performed at the southern tarplant mitigation site for up to five years to assess site conditions and to facilitate successful plant establishment and protection of sensitive [ resources. The Biological Monitor will perform the monitoring tasks listed below at the site. • Monitoring initial installation activities (site preparation and seeding) • Monitoring long-term maintenance activities r • Monitoring site progress and overall conditions • Monitoring of special status species (i.e., CAGN) during performance of maintenance activities during the nesting season [ • Training Landscape Contractor staff as necessary • Monitoring compliance with performance standards r • Development of site-status documentation (including annual status reports) The Biological Monitor will also be responsible for coordinating with the City and the Landscape Contractor regarding site conditions, compliance with performance standards, and required I remedial measures. A detailed monitoring schedule will be included in the detailed mitigation program. At a minimum, monitoring should be performed on a monthly basis the first year following initial installation activities and on a quarterly basis for the remainder of the required [ monitoring program (up to five years).

4.1.6 Performance Standards [ Success criteria will be identified during the development of the detailed tarplant mitigation program and will include percent germination rates and general native species coverage [ standards. 4.2 COASTAL SAGE SCRUB

[ CSS establishment will be accomplished in a highly disturbed, barren area adjacent to the project site and existing CSS that currently supports CAGN in compliance with MND MM-3. CSS restoration in this area will enhance the existing adjacent CSS habitat and eliminate a [ current source of dust that adversely affects nearby CSS and creates a nuisance to adjacent property owners when equestrians utilize that area. As the CSS plant species mature, the site will also provide additional habitat opportunities for CAGN in the area. [ The following subsection provides guidelines for implementing the CSS restoration program in compliance with the NROC Habitat Restoration and Enhancement Plan guidelines. Detailed, l implementation level plans will be developed based on the guidelines presented below. 4.2.1 Site Description

[ The CSS restoration site currently is located in the upper mesa area to the south of the project site (EXhibit 4). The site is currently used as an informal riding area and consists primarily of bare dirt and ruderal vegetation. A riding and hiking trail (Mesa Trail) currently extends through the site; this trail will be re-directed to the edge of the back bay bluff located to the south of the L restoration site. l 4.2.2 Installation CSS plan installation will include site preparation and plant establishment activities performed l by the Landscape Contractor as described below. l R:\Projeets\Newport\J012\A MP·052008.doc 9 Resource Management Plan Santa Ana Heights Equestrian Facility

Site Preparation

Site preparation will include:

• Soil Preparation. Soils will be ripped prior to plant establishment to alleviate any soil compaction that exists within the site.

• Weed Control. The site currently consists of bare dirt; however any weeds that do become established will be removed prior to plant establishment activities.

• Trash Removal. All trash and debris will be removed from the restoration site prior to plant establishment.

• Irrigation Installation. A temporary irrigation system will be installed within the restoration site to provide supplemental water for the CSS plant species. This will consist of an overhead and/or drip system, as determined during detailed plan development.

Plant Establishment

Plant establishment within the restoration site will include use of a seed mix and container plant species (including but not limited to species listed in Table 1) and will provide a mixture of shrubs, sub-shrubs, herbaceous and grass species. A detailed planting palette that includes seed quantities and container quantities and sizes will be provided in the detailed restoration plans. This information will be developed based on an evaluation of existing CSS in the area by the Biological Monitor.

Native plant materials will be obtained from reputable and technically experienced native seed suppliers. Plant materials will be collected as much as possible from sources within the project site and other local plant sources within 30 miles of the project site, and should be obtained from areas that have similar habitat conditions to the project site. Using site-specific and local plant sources will minimize the establishment of non-local genetic material within the restoration site. The Biological Monitor will approve the seed mix and the collection sources before seed materials are packaged.

Plant establishment will be performed between October and January, and during those periods when weather and soil conditions are suitable. In this way, seasonal rains can be used to facilitate appropriate establishment and germination.

• Seed Mix Application. Seeding will occur by hand or via hydroseeding, as determined during detailed plan development. Powdered myccorhizal inoculant will be used the seed mix to facilitate plant establishment and out-competition of weed species.

• Container Plants. Container planting will include a variety of sizes to provide immediate structural variability. Appropriate host plants will be inoculated with myccorhizal inoculant.

A detailed description of seed broadcast and container planting methodologies will be provided in the detailed restoration plan. Once initial plant establishment activities have been completed, a permanent fence will be installed around the perimeter of the site to provide ongoing protection.

R:\ProjeetsINewport\J012\RMP-052008.doc 10 Resource Management Plan [ Santa Ana Heights Equestrian Facility r TABLE 1 PLANT SPECIES

Common Name Botanical Name California sagebrush Artemisia califomica coyote bush Baccharis pilularis California sunflower Encelia californica buckwheat Eriogonum fasciculatum goldenbush Isocoma menziesi; deerweed Lotus scoparius r coastal prickly pear Opuntia Iittoralis while sage Salvia apiana black sage Salvia mellifera Mexican elderberry Sambucus mexicana

4.2.3 Long Term Maintenance

Maintenance of the CSS restoration site will be initiated immediately after the completion of installation activities and will extend for five years or until the site has been successfully I established. The Landscape Contractor will implement the maintenance tasks listed below. • Irrigation system operation, repair, and maintenance [ • Irrigation schedule adjustment • Weed species control (to include, as appropriate, hand removal, mechanical removal, and application of approved herbicides) [ • Herbivory control • Protection of the restoration site • Erosion control • Plant replacement and reseeding (as needed) • Trash and debris removal

The Landscape Contractor will be responsible for timely coordination with the City and the Biological Monitor regarding site status and the performance of appropriate maintenance and remedial actions that facilitate successful habitat establishment. It is anticipated that performance of weed control activities will be necessary on a monthly basis for a minimum of three years following initial implementation. All maintenance activities will be performed in a manner that results in successful site establishment, preservation and protection of existing resources, and compliance with site-specific performance standards.

4.2.4 Monitoring of Restoration Site

Monitoring will be performed at the CSS restoration site for up to five years to assess site conditions and to facilitate successful habitat establishment and protection of sensitive resources. The Biological Monitor will perform the monitoring tasks listed below at the restoration site.

• Monitoring initial installation activities (site preparation and plant establishment) • Monitoring long-term maintenance activities • Monitoring site progress and overall conditions • Monitoring of special status species (I.e., CAGN) during performance of maintenance activities during the nesting season • Training Landscape Contractor stall as necessary

R:\PrOjeClS\Newport\)012\RMP-052008.dOC 11 Resource Management Plan Santa Ana Heights Equestrian Facility

• Monitoring compliance with performance standards • Development of site-status documentation (including annual status reports)

The Biological Monitor will also be responsible for coordinating with the City and the Landscape Contractor regarding site conditions, compliance with performance standards, and required remedial measures. A detailed monitoring schedule will be included in the detailed restoration program. At a minimum, monitoring should be performed on a monthly basis the first year following initial installation activities and on a quarterly basis for the remainder of the required monitoring program (up to five years).

5.0 RESOURCE PROTECTION

A discussion of specific avoidance and minimization measures to be implemented during initial Project construction and ongoing facility operations is provided below.

5.1 IMPACT AVOIDANCE AND MINIMIZATION

Project construction activities can potentially result in the disturbance to wildlife species, clearing of native vegetation, soil compaction, dust accumulation on vegetation, degradation of water quality, and erosion. Project construction activities will consist of: (1) grading to create the riding arenas, equestrian trails and access roads, and the water quality drainage and basin features; (2) the installation of fencing around arenas; and (3) the construction of the all-weather road surface for the access road. Specific protection measures that minimize impacts during these initial construction activities are discussed below and will be implemented by the General Contractor in coordination with the City and the Biological Monitor.

5.1.1 Biological Surveys

Appropriate surveys will be performed by the Biological Monitor prior to and during project construction to facilitate the protection of biological resources adjacent to the project site. This information will be used to determine: (1) the appropriate scheduling of proposed activities and (2) appropriate protection measures.

California Gnatcatcher Surveys

Surveys for the coastal California gnatcatcher are not required, as the Project will not impact the coastal sage scrub adjacent to the project site. Indirect impacts to CAGN are covered and fully mitigated under the NCCP as long as construction minimization measures are followed to ensure that short-germ grading and associated increased noise levels do not affect the species. In addition, to minimize the indirect impacts to the coastal California gnatcatcher, construction should be completed outside of the gnatcatcher breeding season, February 15 through August 30 in compliance with MND MM-2. The following construction-related minimization mitigation measures of the NCCP related to development are as follows:

A. Prior to the commencement of clearing operations or other activities involving significant soil disturbance, all areas of coastal sage scrub habitat to be avoided under the provisions of the NCCP/HCP, will be identified with temporary fencing or other markers clearly visible to construction personnel. Additionally, prior to the commencement of grading operations or other activities involving soil disturbance, a survey will be conducted to locate gnatcatchers and cactus wrens within 100 feet of the outer extent of projected soil disturbance activities and the locations of any such species will be clearly marked and identified on the construction plans.

R:\ProjeCls\NewportIJ012\RMP·05200B.doc 12 Resource Management Plan Santa Ana Heights Equestrian Facility

B. A monitoring Biologist, acceptable to USFWS/CDFG will be onsite as needed during grading activities.

C. No construction access, parking, or storage 01 equipment will be permitted within lenced, protected areas.

D. Coastal sage scrub identilied lor protection and located within the likely dust drift radius 01 construction areas will be periodically sprayed with water to reduce accumulated dust on the leaves as recommended by the Biological Monitor.

Nesting Raptors

Trees on and adjacent to the project site could support nesting raptors. It is therelore recommended that all trees to be impacted by the proposed Project be removed outside 01 the raptor nesting season (July 1 to January 31). II this is not leasible, then the Biological Monitor should inspect the trees prior to project activities to ensure no nesting raptors are present. II a nest is present, then appropriate minimization measures would need to be developed by the Biological Monitor.

Seven days prior to the onset 01 construction activities, the Biological Monitor will survey within the limits 01 project disturbance for the presence 01 any active raptor nests (common or special status). Any nest lound during survey efforts will be mapped on the construction plans. II no active nests are lound, no lurther mitigation would be required. Results 01 the surveys will be provided to the CDFG.

II nesting activity is present at any raptor nest site, the active site will be protected until nesting activity has ended to ensure compliance with Section 3503.5 01 the Calilornia Fish and Game Code. Nesting activity lor raptors in the region 01 the project site normally occurs lrom February 1 to June 30. To protect any nest site, the lollowing restrictions on construction are required between February 1 and June 30 (or until nests are no longer active as determined by the Biological Monitor): (1) clearing limits will be established a minimum 01 300 leet in any direction lrom any occupied nest and (2) access and surveying will be restricted within 200 leet 01 any occupied nest. Any encroachment into the 300/200 loot buffer area around the known nest will only be allowed il it is determined by the Biological Monitor that the proposed activity will not disturb the nest occupants. During the non-nesting season, proposed work activities can occur only il the Biological Monitor has determined that Iledglings have left the nest.

II an active nest is observed during the non-nesting season, the nest site will be monitored by the Biological Monitor, and when the raptor is away lrom the nest, the Biological Monitor will Ilush any raptor to open space areas. The Biological Monitor will then monitor removal 01 the nest site so raptors cannot return to a nest.

5.1.2 Initial Protection Measures

Location of Activities

Where possible, construction will be located so as to minimize impacts to undisturbed sensitive resources. Initial grading and site preparation should occur as much as possible during the non­ rainy season to ensure that transport 01 silt and other pollutants would not affect riparian habitat or other sensitive habitat in the Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve or UNB Ecological Reserve located downstream Irom the project site. Construction access roads should not be located adjacent to the ollsite CSS area to minimize indirect impacts to biological resources in this area.

A:\ProjeetsINewport\J012IAMP-052008.doc 13 Resource Management Plan r l Santa Ana Heights Equestrian Facility

Seasonal Scheduling/Nesting Season Restrictions

I Initial construction activities will be scheduled outside of the nesting season as much as possible to avoid disturbance to nesting birds and fledglings. Nesting season schedules include the following: r • Coastal California gnatcatcher (Potioptita californica californica): February 15 to August 30 r • Raptors: February 1 to June 30 I Protective Fencing Fencing will be used where possible to delineate construction limits and to protect and delineate preserved CSS adjacent to construction sites. Fencing will also be used as needed to identify [ and protect biological resources that are off-limits (active nest sites, etc.). Fencing will consist of yellow rope on four-foot T-stake posts. Damaged fencing will be repaired and re-installed on an as-needed basis throughout construction activities so that the boundaries of the protected [ resource areas are visible to personnel at all times. No construction activities will occur within fenced, protected areas at any time. This will insure that designated resources are protected. [ Equipment Storage and Access Equipment will not be stored, parked, or operated, and temporary structures will not be placed within the protected areas adjacent to construction activities. Construction access will be I planned to minimize pruning of preserved resources.

Erosion Control During Construction [ Temporary measures such as rice straw wattles/Filtrex socks, hay bales, existing fill/rip-rap, etc. will be used on the slopes below graded areas to prevent erosion and deposition of materials [ into the adjacent Santa Ana/Delhi Channel during all grading and construction activities. The use of non-biodegradable materials such as silt fencing, nylon sandbags, etc. will be determined on a case by case basis in coordination with the Biological Monitor. Back-cutting techniques will [ be used where grading occurs along the top of slopes to prevent excess soil and rock from escaping downslope and disturbing natural areas. Erosion control techniques or sediment control devices, including the use of sandbags, installation of sediment traps, and other appropriate BMPs will be used to control erosion and limit excess drainage if construction L activities occur during the rainy season. [ Vegetation Clearing Pruning and clearing of native trees, shrubs, and snags should be avoided whenever possible; if avoidance is not feasible, the Biological Monitor shall approve any such activity. l Dust and Litter Control

All native vegetation in the vicinity of construction activities will be sprayed with water as l necessary to reduce dust accumulation on the leaves.

All trash associated with construction or personnel on the project site will be properly contained l and disposed of. l l R:\Projeets\NewportIJ012\RMP-052008.doc 14 Resource Management Plan Santa Ana Heights Equestrian Facility

Monitoring

The Biological Monitor will be on the project site during initial protective fence installation and as needed during grading activities to prevent any direct impacts to adjacent CSS areas or southern tarplant individuals outside of Project work limits. In addition, a post-construction report shall be prepared by the Biological Monitor for submittal to the City and other agencies, as appropriate. This report will document implemented protection measures and any special status wildlife species observed during the construction period.

5.1.3 Ongoing Management and Protection Measures

Ongoing facility operations and maintenance activities can potentially result in the disturbance to wildlife species, clearing of native vegetation, degradation of water quality, and erosion. Ongoing activities will consist primarily of local residents using the arenas and existing/re­ aligned trails for training activities and trail riding. It is anticipated that local residents will use the existing/re-aligned trails for hiking. City of Newport Beach staff will also be using access roads during ongoing facility maintenance tasks. Specific protection and management measures that minimize impacts during facility use and operation are discussed below and will be implemented by the City.

Manure Management Measures

The following BMPs are designed to minimize water quality impacts to the 'Santa Ana/Delhi Flood Control Channel and Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve and UNB Ecological Reserve located downstream from the project site and will be implemented by the City and adjacent residents. It is the responsibility of the City to ensure that adjacent equestrian properties are implementing the BMPs discussed below, where appropriate. The source for the majority of the following BMPs is a document entitled "Equestrian-Related Water Quality Best Management Practices", which resulted from a cooperative effort among private and public entities in Orange and San Diego Counties in response to National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit requirements issued by the Santa Ana and San Diego Regional Water Quality Control Boards. The source document was published in June 2004 and can be located at http://www.ocwatershed.com/PublicEducation/PDFs/Equestrian_BMPs_052704.pdf.

Runoff Control Best Management Practices

A. Facility Runoff Related BMPs

Runoff from areas containing manure, bedding, or feed debris represents the most significant source of pollutants from equestrian facilities. However, the activities expected to occur within the project site are expected to be temporary in nature. There will not be any permanent housing of animal's onsite. Manure and debris associated with the daily use is expected to be minimal when compared to a facility that houses animals. Preventative measures could include some of the examples listed below. Generally these measures serve to prevent and minimize the runoff that comes into contact with manure, bedding, or feed debris being carried off the facility and into a storm drain.

1. Vegetated swales have been designed into the project. The swales will be used to convey water through the project area and provide treatment prior to it leaving the site.

2. Locate temporary confinement areas away from creeks, steep slopes, and floodplains.

3. Maintain vegetation and replant bare areas to reduce erosion using non-invasive plants. A portion of the project area not being used for equestrian activities will be renegotiated.

R:\Projeets\NewportIJ012\R MP-052008.doc 15 Resource Management Plan I Santa Ana Heights Equestrian Facility 4. Control potential runoff from water troughs with automatic waterers or other means.

I 5. Water should not remain standing for more than 72 hours because of the possibility of [ attracting mosquitoes that may carry the West Nile Virus or other diseases. Erosion Control-related Best Management Practices I A. Horse-Specific Related BMPs 1. Restrict horse access to designated trails and avoid riding in wetlands, creeks, creek [' banks, meadows, and steep hillsides. 2. Use vegetated swales for sediment control. [ B. Slope Stabilization Related BMPs

1. Re-route horse trails away from areas experiencing accelerated erosion (i.e., gullies and r areas with steep slopes). 2. Stabilize slopes with vegetation or other applicable erosion control measures, such as [ erosion control blankets. Do not plant any invasive species. Bacteria/Nutrient Transportation Prevention Best Management Practices

[ A. Manure Management

1. Remove manure regularly, daily is best, or keep manure under cover such that runoff [ does not come into contact with manure stockpiles. It should be noted that the amount of manure generated is expected to be relatively small since there is no permanent housing of animals on site.

2. Provide temporary storage for manure that cannot be disposed of daily. Manure shall not be stored for more than a week on site.

3. Grade the area surrounding the manure storage area to prevent surface water from reaching the storage area.

4. Store horse waste on an impervious surface (a concrete pad or plastic tarp) and under cover (a roof or tarp) during rains to prevent leaching or runoff of pollutants.

5. Locate manure storage areas away from waterways so that floods or runoff will not wash away waste.

6. Do not dump horse waste on the edge of, or directly into, adjacent waterways.

General Housekeeping Best Management Practices

A. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) BMPs for Horse Facilities and Surrounding Landscape

Integrated Pest Management is an ecologically based pest control strategy that focuses on long-term prevention and control of pests and their damage. A combination of techniques are used such as inspecting and identifying the pest, learning the pest and host life cycles and biology, removing or reducing the pest habitat when possible, using

R:\Projeets\NewportIJ012IA MP-052008.doc 16 Resource Management Plan Santa Ana Heights Equestrian Facility

natural enemies, using resistant plant varieties, using mechanical control for weed removal, monitoring frequently, establishing a threshold for damage, choosing the control tactic and then evaluating the results. Pesticides can be used in an IPM system, but should only be used when all other factors in an IPM strategy are met. Some pesticides are designed to be toxic only to the target pest and will not harm desirable insects. Additional information can be found on the University of California, Davis web site at www.ipm.ucdavis.edu. 1. Stabilize bare slopes, use native vegetation whenever possible because native vegetation doesn't require fertilizer.

2. Use IPM techniques to reduce the amount of chemicals, pesticides, fertilizers and herbicides placed on landscaping that may wash away.

B. Trash/Debris

1. Collect and dispose of trash and debris daily.

2. Do not allow trash or debris to enter creeks, seasonal streams, storm drains, or ponds.

C. Chemicals

1. Follow directions for all chemical applications.

2. Dispose of unused chemicals at a household hazardous waste (HHW) facility. Call the County of Orange and/or the City of Newport Beach for the location of your nearest HHW facility.

Equipment Storage and Access

Equipment will not be stored, parked, or operated within the protected CSS areas adjacent to the Project site. Equestrian and vehicular access will be limited to designated access roads, trails, and arenas.

Vegetation Clearing

Pruning and clearing of native CSS species adjacent to the project site will be avoided.

Litter Control

All trash and debris associated with ongoing facility operations will be properly contained and disposed of.

R:\Projec1s\NewportIJ0121A MP-052008.doc 17 Resource Management Plan Santa Ana Heights Equestrian Facility

6.0 REFERENCES

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

Abrams, L. 1951. Illustrated Flora of the Pacific States. Vol. III: Geraniums to Figworts (Geraniaceae to Scrophulariaceae). Stanford, California: Stanford University Press.

Abrams, L. 1944. Illustrated Flora of the Pacific States. Vol. II: Buckwheats to Kramerias (Polygonaceae to Krameriaceae). Stanford, California: Stanford University Press.

Abrams, L. 1923-1951. Illustrated Flora of the Pacific States. Vols. I, II, and III. Stanford, California: Stanford University Press.

Abrams, L. 1923. Illustrated Flora of the Pacific States. Vol. I: Ferns to Birthworts (Ophioglossaceae to Aristolochiaceae). Stanford, California: Stanford University Press.

American Ornithologists' Union (AOU). 2006. Check-list of North American Birds (7th ed., as revised through 47'" Supplement). Washington, D.C.: AOU. http://www.aou.org/checklisVindex.php3.

Baker, R.J., L.C. Bradley, R.D. Bradley, J'w. Dragoo, M.D. Engstrom, R.S. Hoffmann, CA Jones, F. Reid, D.W. Rice, and C. Jones. 2003 (December). Revised Checklist of North American Mammals North of Mexico, 2003. Occasional Papers (No. 229). Waco, TX: Museum of Texas Tech University.

Brenzel, K.N., Editor. 1995. Sunset Western Garden Book. Menlo Park, California: Sunset PUblishing Corporation.

California Department of Fish and Game. 2006. California Natural Diversity (RareFind) Database. California Department of Fish and Game, Natural Heritage Division, Sacramento, California.

California Native Plant Society (CNPS). 2006. Inventory of Rare and Endangered Plants (online edition, v6-05d). California Native Plant Society. Sacramento, CA. Accessed on December 5, 2005 from http://www.cnps.org/inventory.

Fisher, R.N. and T.J. Case. 1997. A Field Guide to the Reptiles and Amphibians of Coastal Southern California. San Mateo, California: Lazer Touch.

Gray, J. and D. Bramlet. 1992. Habitat Classification System Natural Resources Geographic Information System (GIS) Project (Prepared for the County of Orange Environmental Management Agency) Santa Ana, California: Gray and Bramlet.

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

Hickman, J.C. Editor. 1996. The Jepson Manual- Higher Plants of California. University of California Press. 3rd. edition.

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

A:\Projeets\NewportIJ012\A MP-052008.doc 18 Resource Management Plan Santa Ana Heights Equestrian Facility

Orange, County of. 1996 (July). Natural Community Conservation Plan and Habitat Conservation Plan, County of Orange, Central and Coastal Subregion. Santa Ana, CA: the County.

Orange, County of. 1996 (July). Implementation Agreement Regarding the Natural Community Conservation Plan for the Central/Coastal Orange County Subregion of the Coastal Sage Scrub Natural Community Conservation Program. Santa Ana, CA: the County.

Orange, County of, NCCP Consultant Team. 1996 (May). Final Joint Environmental Impact Report and Environmental Impact Statement Regarding Take Authorization for Implementation of the County of Orange Central Coastal Subregion Natural Community Conservation Plan & Habitat Conservation Plan (FEIS 96-26, FEIR 553) (Prepared for County of Orange Environmental Management Agency and U.S. Department of Interior Fish and Wildlife Service). Santa Ana, CA: the County.

R:\ProjeCls\Newport\J012\RMP-052008.doc 19 Resource Management Plan APPENDIX A

CONCEPTUAL LANDSCAPE PLAN

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Source: City of Newport Beach 2007 Conceptual Landscape Plan Appendix A Santa Ana Heights Equestrian Project

CONSULTING R:/ProjectsJNewportlJ0121GraphicsJappA_CLP_020608.pdf Appendix B

Santa Ana-Delhi Channel Mitigation Program and Resource Management Element

PSBS #B97

SANTA ANA-DELHI CHANNEL MITIGATION PROGRAM AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT ELEMENT NEWPORT BEACH, CALIFORNIA

Prepared fo r

Culbertson, Adams and Associates 85 Argonaut, Suite 220 Aliso Viejo, CA 92656 Tel (714) 581-2888 Fax (714) 581-3599

Prepared by

Pacific Southwest Biological Services, Inc. Post Office Box 985 National City CA 91951-0985 Tel (619) 477-5333 Fax (619) 477-1245

30 October 1992 (Revised 18 February 1993)

Keith W. Merkel, Vice President

I PSBS #B97 I TABLE OF CONTENTS I BACKGROUND ...... 1 PliRPOSE AND GOALS ...... 1

I EXISTING SITE CHARACTERlSTICS ...... •...... 3 I GRADING AND SITE PREPARATION :...... 4 PLANT MATERlALS 5

I PLANTING PROGRAM ...... 9 I MAINTENANCE 9 IRRlGATION 9 I SITE PROTECTION ...... 10 I MONITORlNG AND SUCCESS ASSESSMENT 10 LITERATIJRE CITED ...... 11

I FIGURES AND TABLES

FIGURE 1. REsrORATION GRADING PLAN ...... •...•...... •...... 2 I FiGURE 2. TYPICAL PLANTING PLAN AND CROSS-SECTION ...... •.•....•... .. 7 FIGURE 3. CROss-SECTION PLA."-'TING ZONES 8

TABLE 1. PLANTING MATERIALS FOR DELHI CHANNEL SALT MARsH COMPENSATION AREA...... 6 TABLE 2. MILEsTONES AND REMEDLA.L MEASURES ..•...•....•...... •...... 11

02118/93

PSBS #B97 1

I SANTA ANA-DELHI CHANNEL MITIGATION PROGRAM AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT ELEMENT I NEWPORT BEACH, CALIFORNIA Pacific Southwesr Biological Services, Inc. 30 October 1992 I (Revised 18 February 1993) I BACKGROUND In accordance with U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) permit #91-430-GS, the Orange I County Environmental Management Agency (EMA) has been required to document fills which have occurred within regulated waters of the Santa Ana-Delhi drainage and its tributaries. Based on the I impacts identified, a mitigation program was to be developed to compensate for impacts of projects which have occurred since July 1986. In addition, this mitigation program is to address known, future I flood control projects within the system. In accordance with prior discussions with Corps regulatory staff and the Corps/Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Memorandum of Agreement on I mitigation (February 7, 1990), appropriate compensation is to be based on replacement of resource values. A biological assessment of the Santa Ana-Delhi Channel system was prepared to compare 1986 conditions with those of the ultimate configuration. Numerical weightings of multiple factors were used along with affected acreages to derive a quantified value impact of past and future projects (pacific • Southwest Biological Services 1992). Included in this assessment was a consideration of channel expansion along the lower portion of the Santa Ana-Delhi Channel as a mitigation measure to meet • current mitigation requirements and result in a net gain in habitat values (pacific Southwest Biological Services 1992). This analysis did not consider any temporal loss of habitat values associated with delays • in mitigation efforts. However, a subs:tantial net gain may be realized by the proposed channel expansion efforts and management of the expanded channel as an ecological resource associated with • the Upper Newport Bay Ecological Reserve. • PURPOSE AND GOALS This document provides a-concept plan for the mitigation of lost values associated with flood • control work in the Santa Ana-Delhi Channel system since 1986 and as anticipated for the future. Work is to be focused on the lower tidal portions of the mainstem of the channel system (Figure 1). • This mitigation plan is a companion document to the Santa Ana-Delhi Channel plan documents prepared by EMA. In some situations it is desirable to correct existing conditions which threaten • downstream resources through reconfiguration of specific project elements. Where such opportunities I exist, these have been identified in this document.

02118/93 Paci{U SClUtliwest 'Biofol1iro£ Se:rviles, lru. PSBS #B97 I I I I I

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FIGURE 1. RESTORATION GRADING PLAN

r ;:< 230' PSBS #B97 3

The purpose of this document is two-fold. First, the document specifies the requirements for site preparation, revegetation, maintenance and monitoring of the channel area as a mitigation site for past and future channel improvements within the Santa Ana-Delhi Channel system. The second

objective of this document is to specify the channel management requirements which are necessary to make this program compatible with the basic goals of the Upper Newport Bay Ecological Reserve. This document outlines the success criteria against which the project will be judged and the • remedial measures to be required should success not be attained. The focal habitat to be created in this project is middle elevation coastal salt marsh. Supporting habitat elements include low marsh transition, brackish marsh, high marsh fringe, and maritime

succulent scrub vegetation along the channel slopes. The existing channel is to be relocated and expanded in width. The channel would be designed to be primarily tidal to allow for the restoration of salt marsh, the low stature of which would provide for low channel roughness thereby eliminating • the need for flood control maintenance. The expansion of the channel width would result in flood flow velocities which promote deposition ofsediments and which would be non-.,rosive over the en:ire • expanded channel reach.

EXISTING SITE CHARACTERISTICS The existing conditions of the site are characterized in detail within prior biological asse;sments • of the project area (pacific Southwest Biological Services 1991) and the project area and surrounding region (pacific Southwest Biological Services 1992). These documents should be consulted for specific • details of the site's resources. The following discussion summarizes the information contai:led within these documents. • The existing channel is an eroded, deeply incised earthen-sided channel ...-ith elevated containment dikes which was originally designed with a trapezoidal channel shape. Channel flow velocities within this reach average 8.8 feet per second (fps) during a lOC-year storm event. The channel slopes are frequently vertical or nearly vertical with sparse vegetation. The dikes and slopes support • predominantly exotic, opportunistic species including Russian-Thistle (Salsola australis), Tree Tobacco (Nicotial74 glauca), Cocklebur (Xanthium strumanum), and Sweet Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare). The flowline of the channel consists of a 4- to 15-foot wide open water channel supporting no • vascular plant growth. Along the edges of this channel is a narrow fringe of coastal salt marsh vegetation intermixed with brackish marsh vegetation. This narrow fringe habitat averages 3 feet in • width along both sides of the channel. Species represented in this region include Pickleweed (Salicornia viTginica),Saltgrass (Distichlis spicata) , Alkali-Heath (Frankenia salil74) , AlkaE Bulrush (Scirpus robustus), • Soft-flag Cat-tail (Typha lati/olia), and Rabbit's-foot Grass (Polypogon monspelimsis) at the lower end of

OV18/93 PacifU SClUtnwest '.BiofoJliuz{ Serui£es, Inc. PSBS #B97 4 • the channel reach. Upstream approximately 600 feet from the Universiry Avenue bike bridge, the vegetation is dominated by more brackish and freshwater species including Alkali Bulrush, Cat-tail, and • Rabbit's-foot Grass. Near the Mesa Drive bridge, the channel becomes very shallow and supports limited wetland vegetation including Dense-flower Sprangle-top (Diplachne uninervia). Wildlife usage in this reach of the channel system is strongly limited by the lack of an intact vegetation co=uniry, either upland or wetland. Flood control maintenance occurs within this reach through both active efforts and the continual erosion of the channel's steep slopes. Species which make • use of this channel reach include the Great Blue Heron (Ardea herodi

OZ/18/93 I PSBS #B97 5

Because the ultimate marsh design would bring tides closer to the slope base supporting the • channel slopes, these slopes will be graded to a 2: 1 slope with a keyway base trench and armored with a rip-rap facing. Armoring will be necessary to ensure long-term slope stability. Following slope • armoring, the slopes will be covered with soil to provide a planting medium for upland buffering vegetation. To ensure an adequate depth ofsoil penetration intO the rip-rap, soil would be spilled over the face of the rip-rap and washed, hand worked or vibrated into the interstitial spaces. Exces. material • would be collected at the base of the slope and respread over the slopes. A temporary, untreated jute matting would be used along the lower 10 feet of slope to assist in stabilizing these soils while plant •• materials became established. Matting should be placed in 10' x 10' grid squares such that individual segments are not physically attached to neighboring matting. In this manner, if a mat should be striped • from the slope, long reaches of matting would not be lost. Prior to grading the wider channel, the existing bottom muck of the current channel would • be removed and saved as a planting bed in the new channel. It is imponant that this bottom muck not be commingled with mineral soils or soils which would add a contaminating seed bed, requiring • subsequent eradication. Final grading and trenching of the channel bottom would be conducted using a light tractor • for greater elevation control. Precise elevation control is extremely imponant in establishing the correct tidal inundation levels. In addition to excavating the main channel, a number of meandering or dendritic channels should be cut using hand labor and small equipment to provide for adequate drainage of micro-basins which may pond water. At low tide, no ponion of the site, with the • exception of the deeper tidal channels, should retain pooled surface water. Where such pooling occurs, • soil salinities will be unstable and soil anoxia and low redox potentials will preclude plant growth. PLANT MATERIALS • The restored coastal salt marsh area will be planted utilizing nursery·propagated plant materials salvaged from the channel prior to construction activities and field-collected native seed. Plant materials • to be used in restoration are listed in Table 1 along with a su=ary of planting unit types and numbers to be included in the restoration program. Planting zones are given in Table 1 and illustrated • in Figures 2 and 3. The restoration area required by permit includes 65,000 square feet within Planting Zones 1 and 2, i.e., the wetlands portion ofthe channel. The remaining, upper elevation planting areas

are proposed to ensure stability of surrounding upland areas once invasive species are removed and to • provide adequate assurance that the minimum mitigation requirements are achieved. • • 02/18/93 Paci{ir. Southwest '15ioCoflUa{ Servias, I~ PSBS #B97 6

TABLE 1. PLANTING MATERIAlS FOR DElHI CHANNEL SALT MARSH COMPENSATION AREA

COMMON NAME . SCIENI1FlC NA.1',!E NUMBER/SIZE Tidal Area - Channel Botton - Zone 1 rt6.250 SQ' ft-) • Saltwort Balis maritima 1,450/1iners Pickleweed Salicomia virginica 4,300/liners Cordgrass Spartina foliosa 1,1DO/liners Arrowweed Triglochin concinrza 360l1iners Tidal Area - Channel Fringe - Zone 2 (26.000 sq. ft.) • Glasswort Salicomia subterminalis 3,4SO/liners Sea Blite 5uaeda californica 1,15011iners • California Sea Blite Suaeda esteroa 1,15011iners Alkali-heath Frankenia salina 1,725I1iners Saltgrass' Distichlis spicaea 2,8751liners Sea Lavender Limonmm califomicum 1,16011iners Salty Susan Jaumea camasa SpOl1inen • Upper Channel From Station 29 00 to 35+00 . Channel Bottom· Zone 1 (22.750 sq. ft.) Salty Susan Jaumea camasa 2,52511inen • Spiny Rush ]uncus acutus 2,52511iners Yerba Mansa Anemopsis californica 2,02511iners • Spike-rush Eleocharis paluscris 1,51511iners Linle Bulrush 5cirpus olney! 1,01011inen • Manh Fleabane Pluchea purpurascens 0.25 Ib/seed Mush Evening-primrose Oenothera elara 1.0 Ib/seed Upland Buffer Area· Zone 3 rt13,256 sg. ft.) • Boxthom Lycium californ0.

02118/93 PacifU; South.west '13ioWI10U Servias, 1= PSBS #B97 ..~ • , I • ;;::, 'I 0:::, 0'• '-'\ u.. 1 U • 0 1, • -!

-·'-'1 "', i- . • ~.- ; \ " j.; C • (: • 0' 40' 80' • .'--'==.'Scale 1·--'-= 40' ....' • 1------I I Figure 4. Blowup ~ea I

'/'-~-'/~/ t.., ~ I .. =~""'""''''''''"< -"' ..;:..-""/~ ""'::l - 'l ~-';~~~'''::~~.'.'';'''''.~."'-::.-....._~A--'""""'-""""~;B ~t~:1 /-. .', I I 1 J

NO SCALE

FIGURE 2. TYPICAL PLANTING PLAN AND CROSS-SECTION PSBS IB97

BOXTHORN LYCiUM CAUFOIlNlCUM SALT GRASS DISTICI-IUS SPICA TA PRICKLY-PEAR OPUNTIA UTTORAUS GOLDENBUSH ISOCOMA VENETA CALIF. SAGE N/1EMISIA CAUFORNICA BUCKWHEAT ERJOGONUM FASClCULA11JM

PICKLEWEED SALICORNIA VIF/GINICA GLASSWORT SALICORNIA SUBTERMINNJS FT. MLLW ARROW WEED TRlGLOCHIN CONCINNUM SEA BLiTE SUfDA CALlfORNlCA SEA LAVENDER UMONfUM CALlfORNlCllM CA SEA-BLITE SUfDA fSTEROA SALTWORT SATIS MAAfTlMA ALKALI-HEATH FRANKfNIA SAUNA 16.0 SALTY SUSAN JA)JMEA CARNOSA , ",' ,..--~" 12.0 .. --- ...... -- - .... ------\------\ ------EXISTING TOPOGRAPHY - - 1IIl'~~~O 8.0' ~~ ~~/ STRUCTURED SLOPE '- II

""~I -'---J J-J .~, ~. / """"--\".---_'-J,."" \ / ..... - ::.J/'- /-' '-J'"~) I / --- -I 0.01-' ../ ' / ,,_ \ ./ _- //~ '/" / '-'/'1_ ./\_, '- 1 / \ - I '---- 1./_) J " /

... MAIN TIDAL CHANNEL ...... Planting Zone 1 Planting Zone 2 Planl/ng Zone 3

FIGURE 3. CROSS-SECTION PLANTING ZONES •• • ••••• • I PSBS #B97 9 I Revegetation work will result in the planting of nursery-propagated container plants on 1.5-foot centers for s~er stock and 3-foot centers for larger-growing plants. Intervening open areas will be I seeded once container plantings are completed. I PLANTING PROGRAM It is the intent of this planting program that revegetation work be conducted in a manner that maximizes the survival, growth, and recruitment of new plant materials at the restoration site. For this reason, the work will be preformed by a revegetation specialist with experience in salt marsh restoratlon. It is also the intent, even where not expressly called out, that normal care be taken in all site preparation and revegetation work. This plan serves as a guide for in-field implementation. Whereas criteria for monitoring and success are fixed in order to achieve the desired goals, room must be allowed for field modifications

to the restoration plan. This is allowable; however, any modifications will be reviewed and approved by the revegetation planner prior to alteration of plans. Major modifications will be made only with prior approval of the EMA.

MAINTENANCE Maintenance activities will be carried out over a 5-year period following the end of planting. These activities will include weed and exotic plant control, debris removal, plant replacement to guarantee successful restoration efforts, and any other incidental maintenance deemed necessary to ensure that the proper regrowth of the target vegetation occurs. Ensuring the funding of this project will be the responsibility of the project applicant.

IRRIGATION Irrigation is proposed for the upper portion of the mitigation site. The irrigation will be done by sprinkler irrigation with care not to over water and create a freshwater marsh condition which

would invade the salt marsh plantings. In addition, planting of the upland zone is to make use of winter and spring rains while much of the lower elevations receives regular tidal influence and is not anticipated to require supplemental irrigation. Bonom slopes are designed to ensure positive site drainage and strongly hypersaline conditions are not expected to develop on marsh flats.

02118/93 Pacific Soutli.west 'BiolonUa£ Seroia.s, Inc.. PSBS #B97 10

SITE PROTECTION The site occurs within land controlled by the Orange County Flood Control District and protection of the site will be maintained by the District by fencing as part of their regular flood hazard I protection measures. I MONITORING AND SUCCESS ASSESSMENT Monitoring of the site to assess the status of the revegetation effort will be initiated following I the completion of planting. Monitoring will occur on an annual bases following planting of the site for 5 years. I The monitoring program will incorporate the use of randomly distributed fixed quadrats to determine the total plant cover, the percent cover of each species, and the percent survival of I revegetation materials utilized in the restoration program within the salt marsh restoration area. Success milestones are to be based on the responses of target plant materials within quadrats. Survival criteria of individual units are not to be used since natural recruitment is anticipated to be an important I aspect of achieving desired plant densities and ultimate site maturity. 10 addition to quadrat monitoring, ftxed photo plots will be established and a general overview I of the site will be made in order to assess overall compliance with success criteria, species richness of the site, and areas requiring special maintenance. No quantitative monitoring is proposed for the I Upland Planting Zone as this area is not a part of the compensation area required by the mitigation program. 1 Progress milesmnes have been established in order to guarantee a follow-through to the ultimate achievement of a viable salt marsh habitat. Each milestone is accompanied by the maintenance required I if the project fails to reach the outlined goals. Milestone requirements and corrective maintenance are outlined in Tab]e 2. I Within one month following each monitoring period a report, detailing the results of the monitoring and the prescribed maintenance to be performed, will be provided to the Environmental I Management Agency, California Department of Fish and Game, u.s. Army Corps of Engineers and U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service. I I I I

02118/93 I PSBS #B97 11

TABLE 2. Mn..EsTONES AND REMEDIAL MEASURES

M!I.EsTONE REMEDIAL MEAsURES

o Month Baseline information collection; no areal Plant densities brought up to meet required coverage success criteria, all planting densities planting densities achieved

12 Month 20% cover overall of target plant materials in If cover criteria fail to achieve standards Zooe 1 and 2 (excluding tidal channels) outlined, plant densities will be brought up to 100% of the initial planting densities. I 24 Month 40% vegetative cover over 600 square feet of If cover criteria fail to achieve standards Zone 1 and!or 2 (excluding tidal channels) outlined, plant densities will be brought up to 100% of the initial planting densities.

36 Month 65% vegetative cover over 600 square feet of If cover criteria fails to be achieved in any of Zooe 1 and!or 2 (excluding tidal channels) the areas, then planting density will be brought up to 100% of the original planting density and required mitigation success will be iocreased to 800 square feet.

48 Month 80% vegetative cover over required mitigation Re-evaluate speCIes locations and adjust area within Zooe 1 and!or 2 (excluding tidal planting to proper habitat conditions as channels). necessary.

60 Month 80% vegetative cover over required mitigation Areas not achieving the cover requirements area within Zooe 1 and!or 2 (excludiog tidal will be recontoured and replanted if channels). required, or replacement planting will be done as necessary.

LITERATURE CITED

Pacific Southwest Biological Services, loc. 1991. Report of a Biological Assessment of the Delhi Channel, Upper Newport Bay, Newport Beach, California. Prepared for Culbertson, Adams & Associates, loc., Aliso Viejo, California. 7 February 1991.

Pacific Southwest Biological Services, loc. 1992. Biological Assessment of the Santa Ana/Delhi Channel System, Newport Beacb, Orange County, California. Prepared for Culbertson, Adams & Associates, loc., Aliso Viejo, California. 17 August 1992 (as revised 8 October 1992).

02/18/93 pacific Southwest 'BioCofliaL{ Servi.as, Itu.