United States Forest Los Padres National Forest 6755 Hollister Ave., Department of Service Suite 150 Agriculture Goleta, CA 93117 805-968-6640 805-068-6790 TTY 805-961-5729 FAX

File Code: 2670

Date: 611812010

Subject: Piru, Potholes, and Temescal Grazing Allotments - Botany Letter to the File

To: John Bridgwater, Ojai District Ranger

From: Lloyd Simpson Los Padres Forest Botan~

I have examined the recent changes in the allotment boundary of the western section of the Rodeo Flat Unit of the Temescal Allotment and the proposed road and trail maintenance proposals for all the allotments. As part of that examination, Irvin Fox-Fernandez and I surveyed the area of the boundary change and several of the roads on March 23,2010.

No occurrences of sensitive plant species were detected in the suitable range of the boundary extension for the Rodeo Flat Unit. This is a relatively small area of 56 acres of secondary suitable range and 5 acres of primary suitable range. This extension will have no effect on the Sensitive Plant species discussed in the plant Biological Evaluations.

During our surveys of the roads on March 23, 2010 and October 11,2007, we examined likely habitat along the roads and found no occurrences of Sensitive Plants species. Since maintenance will occur on the existing road bed or trail footprint only, it is not likely that there will be any direct effect on sensitive plants. Since there were no sensitive plants found in the areas adjacent to the roads and trails, it is unlikely that any indirect effects will occur either. There will be no cumulative effects since no sensitive plants occur in the project area. Therefore, there will be no effect on sensitive plants caused by road and trail maintenance activities.

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at -

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for

higher

upper

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habitat.

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head plant

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evaluation

years

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and area.

on

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is

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this

Unit

was

of

on

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no

species

on

than

action

not

pairs yearlong

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to

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direct, lands.

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Service

the detected

and

the

(BE),

and

yearlong)

to

habitat

known

(40

were

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amount

Potholes,

project conifer

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and

determine Biological Lloyd covering

indirect

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in

(1) ojaiensis

to

c/c

species

policy

association

negative.

Allotment

in

Reyes

determine

or

pairs or

would

earlier

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area

forests. in authorized

for

suspected

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seasons

or

and

rotation approximately

(FSM grazing

that

a between

its

Peak

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cumulative

and

term

reduce

Temescal

surveys.

potential

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their

with occur 132

System

It

is

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northwest

of

of occurs

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with

known on

to

plant

head

use.

the

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potential Jeffrey

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in

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(NFS) the It

to

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years —

the

is at 10,

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to

of permitted number from the currently authorized 360 head months (30 cow/calf pairs yearlong) on 66% NFS lands to conserve rangeland health.

2) Potholes Allotment The allotment is divided into the Potholes Unit and the Lisk Unit. The proposal is to authorize and not to exceed 240 head months (40 c/c pairs months between 11/1 — 7/31) on 100% NFS lands for a 10-year term. For the Potholes Unit, construction of a half-mile fence in T5N, Ri 8W, Section 8 is proposed along the boundary of both Units, if herding and active management cannot effectively control livestock from entering the Potholes Unit. For the Lisk Unit, fence construction along the eastern boundary is proposed to keep cattle from entering private land, Lake Piru, and Piru Creek to protect recreation and endangered species resources.

3) Piru Allotment Proposal is to authorize grazing on the Piru Allotment for 132 head months (20 c/c pairs yearlong) on 92% NFS lands for a 10-year term. This would reduce substantially the permitted number from the currently authorized 488 head months (30 cow/calf pairs and 4 bulls year- round and 30 yearlings for 6 months) to maintain rangeland health and better meet the livestock operation of the permittee. A 200 foot drift fence will be constructed at the mouth of Canton Canyon to control livestock within the allotment. To avoid adverse effects to arroyo toads for vehicle and cattle crossings at Piru Creek, the permittee will notify the FS three days prior to allow a biological survey of the crossing to checked for toads. Adult and sub-adult toads can be moved to a safe location. However, egg-strings and tadpoles usually cannot be moved and the use of the crossing may be denied until they disperse (before March and after June).

ALLOTMENT UNIT PERCENT ANNUAL NUMBER PROPOSED CALCULA: NAME NAME NFS SEASON OF C/C HWA UM S AUM SUITABLE OF USE TOTAL/NFS NFS TOTAL/NFS RANGE TEMESCAL Rodeo 68 3/1-2/28 16/11 132/174 267/1 80 Flat Reasoner 66 3/1-2/28 23/15 180/238 401/251 66 5/1-1/31 40/26 156/206 401/251 POTHOLES Potholes 100 1111-7/31 40140 240/356 375/375 Lisk 100 PIRU No Units 57 3/1-2/28 20/11 132/174 446/205

IV. EXISTING ENVIRONMENT

Piru Allotment The Pint Allotment is located on the east side of Lake Pint. From the east side of the lake, the allotment extends in a northeast direction up Canton Canyon, forming an irregular boundary with the Forest on the east’and extending to the general vicinity of Devil Canyon to the south. This allotment was surveyed on April 16-17, 1999 and May 28, 2000.

Piru, Potholes, & Temescal Allotments - 5 - Biological Evaluation, Plants 5/9/2007 Lloyd Simpson benches of From pockets resulting road stream The Canyon. dominated of sycamore Canyon during During Potholes List. grassland Ojai Species This and April The northwesterly (1994), From drainages. interspersed through ridgeline of After Potrero. natural which extensive Piru,

5/9/2007

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the

1999.

south

extent

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to

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this

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1999,

in

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Allotment

support

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with

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to

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of 1999,

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adjacent

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common

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allotment

small

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perennial

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chamise-dominated

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considered

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of

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proximity,

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species

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lily

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plant

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vestus).

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found.

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species

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in

7,

likely

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species

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based

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approximately

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from

existing

by

support

several

racemosa),

suitable

in

of

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were

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across

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species

down

grazing.

canyons

found,

soils

along

trends

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this

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on

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found.

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target

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drainages.

other

such

into

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habitat

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particularly

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were

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presence

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highly

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roads

the

var.

along

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coast

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units

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vestus).

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for

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units:

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with

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across

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within

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cattle. the

the

to

habitat.

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species

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of

western

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ehamise

was

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found

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portion

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considered Sensitive flowered Species Management

1.

Ranges General Ventura Database Calochortus Lucia from Mountains Distribution

Botanical Mountains and locations; Calochortus

Piru,

5/9/2007

addtion,

suitable

Calochortus

mesic

CNPS

conducted Gridley

the

various

Potholes,

Mountains

the Federal:

California: Heritage

California

and Accounts

correct

Counties.

Douglas

shrub

Distribution

plant

chaparral

(2004),

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Area

of

and

the

course habitat rare,

from species

and

the

Trails

weedii

the

weedii

other

in

Status

occasional

in

species

the

is

& exposure

Fort

(Matthews Santa

weedii but

the

occurrence

Hollister Forest

Rank:

the

a

fir in of

of

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was

surveys Native

were

on State-designated sources.

adjacent

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not

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var.

southern var.

which of

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the (Pseudotsuga

mountains

Ynez

the

were

surveyed,

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endangered. Service

survey,

vestus found,

vestus

combined

presence

G3?T2,

either

Ranch

Plant

are

about

1997)

Mountains

There

found. Liggett

of

to Allotments

and

Wood

Monterey

Area familiar

Ojai a

occurs

occurs particularly

Sensitive;

to

Fish’s

side

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dirt

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Ojai

(Arroyo half

and

S2.2

are

the

macrocarpa)

of

to

25

fritillary

(Painter

var. Special

road

of

big-leaf

are at

fritillary

two

make

west at

on

occurrences milkwort —

with

of

Nordhoff

County

about

several

(California

(2001):

vestus

historical

the

in

Monterey, el

Bureau

areas

from

in

Plant this the

the Builito)

2004);

(Fritillaria

Vascular -

Los

maple

the

nine

8

was

and presence

Purdy Rodeo

where

and

- dozen species

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Ortega

List

Ridge,

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western

and

of

not

records. other are

in

the

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in

to

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1B;

is the

Plants

this

the listed scattered found. Flat

(Late-flowered

Santa

entire

lack

in ojaiensis).

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to

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nearby

Luis of

R-E-D

Santa

portion

Management

riparian

all

variety cornuta

Santa

the

unit

this

Another

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of

in

of

Paula

near

south stages

Although

Obispo,

CNPS

the poorly

Ynez plant California

of

locations locations

Code

Paula

of

Forest

is

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woodland

California

var.

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Biological

Lloyd However,

slope

of the

20

concentrated:

doubtful.

Mountains

Watch

Database)

allotment.

mariposa

Santa

consolidated

2-2-3

its

JIshiae)

Canyon

occurrences

Sensitive several

allotment,

in east

of

in in

growth

Simpson

(1994),

the

Springs,

the

the the

Barbara,,

List.

presented

of

Natural

the

Evaluation,

Lion

regionally

The Trail was

Santa Ojai.

Santa Santa

lily)

at

This absence

and

this

According

the

none

about

shaly

are botanists

found

to Den

and

and

Diversity

although

Ynez

Lucia Lucia

Santa pinkish-

species

Howard

the

reported

of

banks nine Santa

of

Plants

in

the

to

is

Piru,

5/9/2007

OCCURRENCE

Occurrence may

plants

suggesting

Calochortus

woodland

siltstone,

(Fiedler

Habitat plants.

Calochortus

respond

environment

flowering

fire

wildfire.

affected

generally

unfavorable

Calochortus

at

as

usually

(California

Calochortus and

Calochortus

Calochortus

Taxonomy

hectares)

Paula

1999).

others

the

events.

be

Potholes,

color

(Stephenson

plant

Peak

open,

branched,

&

the

Description

plants

and

When

and,

consumed

at

stems.

of

of

Ness

either

In

Native

year

flowers

(Terry

Status

weedii

elevations

and

weedii

climatic

occupied

weedii

that

its

rocky

weedii

weedii shale

weedii

as

&

response

typically

wildfire

petals

1993,

Temescal

with

a after

This

Natural

for

DATA-

stem,

tolerance

and

Plant

substrates

Austin,

var.

substrates

var.

var.

(Fiedler

var.

var.

are

by

a

conditions,

many

results

a

California

and

habitat

short

Calcarone

of

to

fire

wildfire

vestus

recognized;

vestus

occurs,

which

live,

vestus

vestus

Society vestus

880—6,250

History

post-fire

Calochortus

by

Allotments

personal

resulting

other

period

of

&

in

the

(Stephenson

the

on

with

are

grows

grows

disturbance,

Ness

appears

is

is

increased

the

event

2001).

Native

causing

the

plant’s

abruptly

a

species

a

1999).

on

reduced

of

environmental

bulb-bearing

monocot

current

communication).

Calochortus

Los

1993).

feet

in

rocky

in

time

1—3

with

weedii

to

a

The

chaparral,

bulbs

Plant

The

Padres

apparent

loss

(270—1,910

of

reproductive

have

feet

apiculate

and

will

year’s

higher

competition

-9-

sites,

or

Calochortus,

flowers

in

The

key

of

Society

being

var.

(0.3-0.9

a

Calcarone

an

produce

the

National

lack

one

perennial

weedii

disturbed

plant

habitat

crop

cues,

changes than

‘endurer’

and

lily

vestus

apex

sufficiently

and

year’s

of

meters),

There

2001).

of

open,

output

family

is

usual

tolerance

most

less

from

meter)

var.

fruits

element

of

stems,

Forest

abundant

1999).

bulbs

(Late-flowered

herb

in

reproductive

areas,

life

its

are

competition

vestus

dry

percentages

It

populations

abundance

other

and

often

(Liliaceae).

are

anthers

tall;

is

history

that

estimated

may

deep flowers,

(Stephenson

Some

sites

for

of

road

also

Lloyd

Biological

the

held

at

vegetation.

is

the

on

flowers

competition

remain

late-flowered

in

some

distinguished

in

dispersal

been

banks,

occurrences

(Utech

strategy

serpentinite

erect

single

the

output.

cismontane

through

Simpson

from

fruits,

of

of

to

Three

mariposa

sites

found

soil

plants June-August

dormant

Calochortus

be

on

Evaluation,

and

and

basal

2002).

neighboring

of

for

753 and

the

However,

to

and

varieties

from

time.

Calcarone

fuel

on

seeds

survive

producing

mariposa

coping

of

substrates

slender,

by

seeds

leaf

acres

and

uncommon

Lily)

sandstone,

in

other

breaks,

the

into

withers

riparian

Plants

(305

of

are

the

with

shape

most

an lily Piru, 5/9/2

3 2 Occ.

6 5 7 8 9

11 12 10

14 13

20 15 17 16 18 19

007

Potholes,

CalFiora

1099719 1183416 1099703 1118169 1099698 1099685 1099693 1099672 1099725

111 1118159 1099662 1099670 1099650

1099648 1099661 1097783 1118156 1315695

1097776

1097763 1097778

1092824 1097741

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&

Temescal

ID

Size 0cc. ? ?

? ? 7 7 7

?

7 ? ?

? ? 7 7 7

7 ? 100

Allotments

1963 7 1895

1946 1944 Late

1952 1937

1923 ? 1902 1943 1909 1939 1944

1987 1955 1948

1994? 1994? 1996 1994? 1994?

1994? 1994?

1983 -

Co/Pvt Cyn, Co/USFS? Romero also Co/Pvt Barbara Burn 2 Upper Co/USFS Old 3um ,ack Ventura Jpper elevation, San ranklin ratt

serpentine, oadtoLaCumbrePeakabout0.6mieof Silver road

on

3arbara arbaraCo/Pvt .efugioRoadnearBaldMtn,

1onterey Wagner \4onterey 4onterey ion vlonterey ‘ozo ocation/Owner orth 10 [hree vlonterey )utra

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part

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of summit,

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Co/USFS

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on

near

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Co/USFS Santa Co/USFS of

Co/USFS?DOD? Co/USFS Co/USFS

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Monterey

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Santa

of

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to

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Santa

(2nd Barbara

just this

Santa

Lucia

Lucia

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tributary

occurrence)

e

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Barbara

e

of

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Mtns

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Co/USFS Mtns Co/DOD

Mtns

summit,

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Mtns

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Carpinteria,

Romero

Santa

Santa

Simpson

se

Mtns

on

on to

1500

Co/USFS

on

on

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on from of

Mts,

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Evaluation, serpentine,

serpentine, Ventura Lucia

Ventura

serpentine, Barbara

serpentine,

Santa

CoIPvt.

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serpentine,

on

ft. Canyon

Santa foothills

Santa

Mtns

is

Plants OccJ CalFiora ID 0cc. Date Location/Owner Size H 1097825 24 1992 .AonsDen Camp, Santa Lucia Mtns on serpentine, Monterey Co/USFS V 22 1099379 ? 1954 Sagebrush flat within yellow pine forest, V[ountPinos, Ventura Co/USFS? 23 1097740 ? ? Ridgetops of Alder Creek, Santa Lucia Mtns on serpentine, Monterey Co/USFS, DOD 24 i/a 100 1996 dong Burros Ck SW of Burro Mtn, Santa ucia Mtns on serpentine, Monterey Co/DOD 25 i/a 100 1996 bJearBurro Rd, about 2 mi wsw of Burro Mtn and 1.2 mi nnw of Three Peaks, Santa Lucia .4tns on serpentine, Monterey Co/DOD i/a 1118163 ? 1929 vlountain Drive near Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara Co/Pvt?

i/a 1118161 ? 1984 West Camino Cielo, 1 miwofSantaYnez eak, Santa Barbara Co/USFS

i/a 1118154 ? 1944 El Camino Cielo, 1 block w ofjunction w/ Gibralter Rd, Santa Ynez Mts, Santa Barbara Co/PVT? i/a 1118158 ? 1958 (upper areas of) Rattlesnake Canyon, Santa 1118165 1965 Ynez Mts, Santa Barbara Co/PVT? i/a 1118167 ? 1928 &boveMission Canyon, Santa Ynez Mts, 1118168 1928 Santa Barbara Co/PVT? i/a 1118162 ? 1963 crossHwy1,seofCasaSanJu1ian,seof ompoc, Santa Barbara Co/PVT? ri/a 1118153 ? 1944 Mong Jesusita Trail in Mission Canyon, Sant Ynez Mts, Santa Barbara Co/PVT? (same location as 1118167?) i/a 1318003 ? 1965 Cuyama Valley desert scrub, 2700 ft. elev., Santa Barbara Co/Pvt?

i/a 1118166 ? 1968 West Camino Cielo, 1 1/2 mi from Hwy 154, Santa Ynez Mts, Santa Barbara Co/PVT? i/a 1118157 ? 1938 ainted Cave Rd near Camino Cielo, Santa Ynez Mts, Santa Barbara Co/PVT? i/a 1118164 ? 1930 Santa Ynez Valley, 2 mi w of Paradise Camp, Santa Barbara Co/Pvt i/a 1118160 ? 1987 .rroyo el Builito, Hollister Ranch, Santa Ynez Mts, Santa Barbara Co/Pvt i/a i/a ? 2000 Hollister Ranch, main ridge between heads of rroyo Builito and Canada de los Panochas i/a 1617860 ? 1985 klong Rd to Hearst Springs on Pine Mtn, 850 rn,exposed ocean-facing slope with soil derived from serpentine mixed with rhyolite,

Piru, Potholes, & Temescal Allotments - 11 - Biological Evaluation, Plants 5/9/2007 Lloyd Simpson Threats fuelbreak Implement Conservation and Calochortus Because management would objective. where found The be and inventory Evaluation it accurately Piru,

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and

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of

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vestus

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to January).

shrubs Threats

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and

potential

year

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include

characterizes

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road Gridley Santa Co/USFS Santa County

Location/Owner

or to

to

allowed 12

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so

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much

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of

area

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large Most

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vestus.

the

on

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occurrences

time

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extent

of

north

to

in

chaparral

to Wheeler

Ventura

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documented

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experience Sur

order

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from management

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var.

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to

matrix.

of

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in

complete and

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road

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order

range

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occurrences

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access.

fire

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from

occupied

engineers,

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SLO Ventura

collections

to

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suppression,

weedii

inventories

more

like

road

to

Therefore,

prevented

fire

are

affects

habitat

var.

should

and

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road

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property,

5/9/2007

Wheeler adjacent

Gridley All

occurs (California

Distribution

comm.).

ojaiensis been

studies

(1997) Fritillaria

Mountains

Rafael

California

General

Management

2.

from

3.

Based

distribution

avoid

are

Calochortus

counties.

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Calochortus

occurrences

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Common

relatively

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previously

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near

or

reported and

upon

of

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California

Federal:

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to

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Gorge

McGuire

Distribution

along

minimize

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FS

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of

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Big

and

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in

or

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the

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widespread

identified

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abundance

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4N05,

impacts

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anticipated fairly

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it

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2004,

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1976

near

2004).

are

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viridea).

with

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fritillary)

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known

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Canyon

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no

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in

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Trail

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South

land

Santa

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from

and

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range,

or

of the

var.

Mountains

attainable;

to

2003);

fuelbreaks

vestus

these

Luis

assigned

off

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others

management

Ojai

1B;

to

Nordhoff

Paula

about

vestus

Coast

from the

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information

to

R-E-D

Obispo

(1993)

Natural

facilities.

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occurs

it

threats the

Pratt

1985).

Canyon),

10—15

has

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the is

the

of

see

2002),

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use

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not

Ridge

Code

also

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Trail,

also

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County,

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to

practices.

of

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occurrences

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area

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Under

regarding

persistence

north

been

the

Campground),

reports

addition,

and

Gridley

3-2-3

Barbara

Bear

Lucia

(the

Simpson

population

to

and

National

the

all

Fritillaria

reported

1976

of

threat

in

Database)

be

Creek,

plants

In

Evaluation,

finding

Mountains

alternatives,

the

from

rocky

Topatopa

Trail

Cuesta

affected.

and

areas

Matthews

(Ness

(Painter

or

Taft

category:

there

distribution

the

Ventura

from and

Forest

south

maps

habitats

Dron

Fritillaria

where

ojaiensis

Ridge

Ranch

1993,

San

south

pers.

of

having

Plants

the

would of

the

that of Ventura perennial Painter Peak, knowledgeable Fritillaria Fritillaria Fritillaria Botanical Oso near as Camino Taxonomy than congeners Santa to nodding (1.5-3 Fritillaria originates of The Habitat strap-shaped

National calfornica (often Fritillaria are 670 openings in Occurrence reported Population

Pint, Occurrence

5/9/2007

be Fritillaria

the

danger

usually

meters)

leaves

Creek

the

flowering

derived

Potholes,

Zaca

Ynez

flower.

near cm)

(2004)

Cielo;

River. base.

and Description

from

Forest

in to

Special

of

from

by

ojaiensis ojaiensis

ojaiensis

ojaiensis

ojaiensis (Smith

long

are

Lake,

drainages),

found are

status Mountains

and

brush a

(California

extirpation

greenish-yellow

leaf

ojaiensis, Status

Status

from

floral

height

about states The

inland

1.6-5

stems

common

taxonomist”.

&

On

the

and

System Natural

that Manzana

Interest

and on

Temescal

and

1998);

a

leaves

the

same

characters

has

is

is

widely grows

is

inches

that

29 separate

of

poorly

and

from

grows

trends

a

a

woodland

distributed

on

Santa

and

are

28

been

locations. Native monocot

perennial

lands in

associates.

material

bulb History

and,

are

Area.

north

are

inches

a found

on

Upper

Creek,

in

lanceolate. (4-13

consolidated

Allotments

portion

along

are

Barbara reported

detectable

plant. with

alternate

lower

moist

(Stephenson also

it and

Plant

slopes

is

unknown,

Plants

on

near

in

cm) (70

from Blue bulbiferous

in

near

purple geographic

often the

at

the

montane or slopes

This of

Plants

several

Society

Catharina

Ranger

cm)

from

long

South

ground

from

or

near

its

White from Canyon Monterey

lily The

from

not

strap-shaped mottling. soils opposite

with range

but

and in

found and

family Colson

serpentine.

nectary

connected highly Santa

Coast the -

2001).

District,

conifer

January

chaparral,

Ledge herb precedes

range

14 associated

it

slender,

Calcarone linear

Creek.

and

(California

Monterey

is

- near

County

Barbara

(Liliaceae). on

Ridge

that

restricted considered Canyon,

The Juncal

is

(Ness

Acer

Campground,

forests

to the

through

Fritillaria

somewhat

the

leaves

to

the On blooms

linear

Plants

in narrowly

perianth

the middle Road

with

“needs

macrophyllum

1999). South

Ranger

mesic to

Dam 1993).

the

flowering

Native

from

at

infkrescence occurrences

Refugio

are

leaves

the

to

landslides San

found

elevations

It

(Matthews February

west

Coast

ojaiensis

determination and

indistinguishable

broad-leaved produced have segments

is

several Fritillaria

lanceolate.

flowering

Fritillaria

District,

Luis

Plant and

Biological distinguished

Lloyd

in

upper in

stalk to

Pass

low

Ridge

within

1-3

the

Alexander Ranger

through

Society

(Burgess and locations

of

and

has

Simpson

and

vulnerability 1997,

are and including in

whorls

tentatively

Topatopa portions

period.

980-2,200

ojaiensis

ojaiensis

Road

Umbellularia greater

The

is

been

the

0.6-1.2 Evaluation,

upland

although

thus

by

District,

considered

Norman

2001).

May.

from

Cuesta

flowers

specialists

of

2000). from

around

Trail

are

found

can

of

along

abundance

3-5

Mountains

has

woodlands

inches identified

is

the

feet

in similar

A

appear the

on it

near

an

leaves Ridge

1993).

in been

flat,

Zaca

are

stem.

Plants

West

(3

to

rest erect

the

or

00-

be OCCURRENCE DATA-Fritillaria ojaiensis (Ojai Fritillary)

Occ. CalFiora 0cc. )ate Location/Owner ED Size 3 i/a 50+ 1947 ‘Iear Wheeler Gorge (Pollard); Wheeler Gorge on 1988 steep slope above gorge falls, E-side of Hwy 33; also along lower Bear Ck. (216+ plants in 2003); Ventura 2003 Co (Magney2003)/LPNF I i/a 1961 Jpper Oso Canyon at Nineteen Oaks Camp, N of 1993 Santa Ynez River, SB Co (Santana 1980, Magney 1993)ILPNF 5 i/a -100 1922 Big Cone Camp, Pine Flat (Martindale) (Type 1988 Locality), Santa Paula Canyon (3 colonies — Big Cone Camp, west of Big Cone @1,700 ft. elev., & Cross Camp), Ventura Co (Magney 1988)/LPNF 6 i/a 63 1987 Gridley Canyon, along Gridley Springs Trail at — 2,200 ft. elev. (Magney 1984) Ventura Co/LPNF 7 i/a 65 1991 Gridley Canyon, three colonies along trail near — Gridley Campground (Burgess), Ventura Co/LPNF 8 i/a 1993? 4orn Canyon, Ventura Co (Magney)/LPFN 9 i/a — 1993? Stewart Canyon, Ventura Co (Magney)/LPNF 10 i/a 1945 Ocean View Trail west of Ojai, Ventura Co (Pollard; 1993? vlagney)/LPNF 11 i/a 1993? [equepis Canyon along trail to Broadcast Peak, SB — Co (Magney)/LPNF 12 i/a 1986 Ridgetop E of Little Falls Spring at head of Little Falls Creek, S of Santa Margarita Lake, SLO CofPvt i/a 1817905 1994 Lower Colson Canyon, near Tepusquet Cyn, 2.3 mi. E — of Santa Maria (Smith 12529), SB Co/Pvt i/a 895424 1991 Cuesta Ridge, SLO Co (Hoover; Junak 1991)/LPNF? i/a 1617861 1985 Reservoir Canyon, north slope, near San Luis Obispo, SLO Co (Keil 1373)/Pvt i/a 1817906 1993 toad to Dabney Cabin, Zaca Lake, road to Manzana 1823072 1994 Schoolhouse from Davy Brown (Smith 12425); ENE 1817904 of Zaca Lake, road from Davy Brown to Dabney Cabin, (Smith 12443), E of Zaca Lake on upper slope o Manzana Creek (Smith 12525); 4.3 mi from locked — gate, San Rafael Mtns, SB Co/LPNF i/a 1461977 1937 VenturaRiver, steep rocky west slope (Clokey & Clokey 5811), Ventura Co/Pvt i/a i/a 5 mi W of San Marco Pass on Camino Cielo (Coykendall), SB Co/Pvt i/a i/a 20 1996 Catharina Creek, SB Co/LPNF i/a i/a — 1925 vlorro Creek, chaparral (Munz 9213), SLO Co/Pvt?

Piru, Potholes, & Temescal Allotments - 15 - Biological Evaluation, Plants 5/9/2007 Lloyd Simpson Aqua from Laguna following Surveys Casitas Ridge), Threats Creek, Ojala, Canyon Pint,

5/9/2007

ri/a i/a

i/a ri/a i/a

1/a i/a 1/a i/a i/a i/a i/a i/a

Ellis

Potholes,

Blanca

Dry

Coyote

Pass

Howard Ridge/Poverty

and

for

locations

Apiary

ri/a Lakes i/a

i/a

ila i/a i/a i/a

i/a i/a i/a

i/a i/a

i/a

Fritillaria

Rice

on

Creek

Creek

&

Highway

Creek,

Ridge,

Canyon),

Temescal

to

have

from

1

Ranch

mile

ojaiensis

Canyon,

Tule

5+

15+

00

-20

-25 —

Rose

been

Log

50.

north

Santa

Allotments

above

Creek,

Later,

1961

1966

1938

1999

1993 1993 1993

1996

Cabin

2002

Valley, searched

Murietta

have

of

Ynez

Casitas

the

Aqua

Derrydale

to

4012), Blue Oso

(Haller 6545)

elev. elev.; White (Burgess); Sisar grove

been Co/LPNF Silver South South Le Co/LPNF Canyon South 2002),

campground

Property/Howard 2o/LPNF? iojogui etween efugio ioad

toad rroyo

Jordhoff .oad

Rose

Devil’s

Mountains following

and

Jeune

Canyon,

Creek,

Blanca

Cyn,

(Rodwick),

conducted, Canyon

Fire

(Norman) (Norman) (Norman) second

at

Valley

Coast no Coast Peak, Coast Ledge

SB

Ventura -

1514),

Burro

Pass

Falls

on

2,000

16

Zaca

Ranch Potrero,

Creek,

Fritillaria

Ridge,

Station

north Co/LPNF?

third

Santa

private -

Creek,

areas

Monterey

Ridge Matilija Ridge

Ridge

along Campground Road, colony

extirpated

Falls, (four

(Dearing

Trail,

Peak

SB

ft.

Co/Pvt

just

population

of

Monterey Monterey

Monterey

Cherry

generally

SB

east

Cruz

elev.

Place

(Magney,

Sisar

were

Co/Pvt?

Juncal

property

Road, Road,

Road, colonies: Matilija

eastern

Lion

and Ca.

ojaiensis Santa

above

Co/Pvt?

closer

Canyon,

tributary

Co/LPNF

Trail, (Burgess),

2 4084)

Canyon

searched

@

by

Creek, Manzana

Canyon mi.

5.8 2 3.4

Road

Ynez

Co/LPNF

with Co/LPNF Co/LPNF

2,740

near

Painted

flooding

2.5

to below

mi

personal Canyon,

at

one

N

1,300

mi

mi

was

Biological

Lloyd

White

Rancho

1,700 N

miles canyon

Sulphur

of

negative

to trailhead (Allen),

Mtns

N

with

S ft.

on

of

(north

Dron Creek

switchbacks Refugio

detected

Hines

of

of Cave,

ft

elev.,

Willow

induced Red

Simpson

Ledge

ft.

Rose

of

communication

elev.

Willow

Willow negative

(Marx)

Matilija

to

elev.

East

Mountina,

SB

side

(Blakley

results.

Peak, Evaluation,

Reef

@ Senior

2500

Ventura

Valley,

Pass (Blakley

(Magney

3,300 Creek

Camino

erosion

of

(Magney

Creek

SB

Creek

Trail

in

results: Piru

(Wills ft.

Nordhoff

The

oak

ft.

and

Rincon

to

Creek

Plants

1984):

Cielo,

2003). Potential threats on National Forest System lands include road, trail, and campground maintenance, and recreational foot traffic (California Natural Diversity Database 2004).

Conservation and Management Considerations

Within its known range, Fritillaria ojaiensis may be more common that indicated by current records. Factors that may result in Fritillaria ojaiensis being under-reported in the botanical literature include (Burgess, pers. comm.):

• Fritillaria ojaiensis has a somewhat cryptic growth form, the plants being easily overlooked when growing amongst grasses and other vegetation. • Fritillaria ojaiensis blooms early (March) when fewer botanical surveys are conducted. • Fritillaria ojaiensis has a propensity to grow in inaccessible areas such as unstable slopes, under dense vegetation, and on steep north-facing slopes.

Evaluation of Current Situation and Threats on National Forest System Lands

Fritillaria ojaiensis is uncommon despite its wide distribution from the Santa Lucia Mountains south to the Topatopa Mountains, with most occurrences relatively small in size and limited in area occupied. However, these small patches of habitat are largely located in areas not subject to current or anticipated management activities. Use of the population occurrence information and completion of project surveys would be adequate, in most instances, to avoid direct and indirect effects to this species.

Based upon the above analysis Fritillaria ojaiensis has been assigned the following threat category:

4. Uncommon, narrow endemic, disjunct, or peripheral in the Plan area with no substantial threats to persistence or distribution from Forest Service activities.

V. DIRECT, INDIRECT, AND CUMULATiVE EFFECTS

There are no known occurrences of Threatened, Endangered, Proposed, and Sensitive plant species within the project area. Marginal potential habitat for Calochortus weedii var. vestus or Fritillaria ojaiensis exists, though no plants were found when selected areas with suitable habitat were surveyed.

For the mostp, the cattle grazing in the Piru, Temescal, and Potholes Allotments spend the majority of their time in the grasslands with gentler slopes and in the adjoining plant communities where shade, water, and dust can be found. This reduces the potential risk to species such as Fritillaria ojaiensis which is found on moist, rocky slopes, and Calochortus weedii var. vestus, found on dry, rocky fuel breaks and cut banks in chaparral. If the livestock do access potential habitat, and if plants are present, there is a risk that cattle grazing will impact

Piru, Potholes, & Temescal Allotments - 17 - Biological Evaluation, Plants 5/9/2007 Lloyd Simpson individual plants by consuming or trampling the flowers, buds, or shoots. Affected plants may be impacted by lost plant parts such as leaves, stems, flowers, fruits, or seeds.

VI. DETERMINATION

It is my determination that the proposed alternative to authorize grazing on the Piru, Temescal, and Potholes Grazing Allotments:

1) will not effectAcanthoscyphusparishii var. abramsii, Allium howellii var. clokeyl, Calochortus palmeri var. palmeri, Chorizanthe parryi var.fernandina, Delphinium umbraculorum, Heuchera abramsii, Heuchera elegans, Hulsea vestita ssp. gabrielensis, Imperata brevfolia, Layia heterotricha, Lonicera subspicata var. subspicata, Nolina cismontana, Orobanche valida ssp. valida, Sidotheca carphylloides, or Streptanthus campestris.

2) may affect individuals, but is not likely to result in a trend toward Federal listing or loss of viability for Calochortus weedii var. vestus or Fritillaria ojaiensis.

VII. LITERATURE CITED

Burgess, Rick. 2000. Rare plant report, Ojaifritillary (Fritillaria ojaiensis). Matilija Copy, Vol. 13(3). Channel Islands Chapter California Native Plant Society, Ventura, CA.

CalFiora: [web application]. 2002. Information on California plants for education, research and conservation. Berkeley, California: The CalFiora Database [a non-profit organization].

California Native Plant Society. 2001. Inventory of rare and endangered plants of Caflfornia (sixth edition). Rare Plant Scientific Advisory Committee, David P. Tibor, Convening Editor. California Native Plant Society, Sacramento, CA.

California Natural Diversity Database. 2004. RareFind 3.0.5. Sacramento, CA: California Department of Fish and Game.

California Natural Diversity Database. Special vascular plants, bryophytes, and lichens list. Sacramento, CA: California Department of Fish and Game.

Fiedler, P. And Ness, B. 1993. Calochortus. In Hickman, James C. (ed.). The Jepson manual: higher plants of Caljfornia. Berkeley, CA: University of California Press.

Hoover, Robert. 1970. The vascular plants of San Luis Obispo County. Berkeley, CA: University of California Press.

Keil, David J; Allen, Robert L.; Nishida, Joy H.; Wise, Eric A. 1985. Addenda to San Luis Obispo County Flora. Madrono, Vol. 32, .p.222

Piru, Potholes, & Temescal Allotments - 18 - Biological Evaluation, Plants 5/9/2007 Lloyd Simpson Magney, David. 1984. Letter to Mark Borchert, Los Padres National Forest Sensitive Plant Coordinator.

Magney, David. 2002. Rare plant foray reports: eastern Senior Canyon (Nordhoff Ridge). Matilija Copy 15(2):4-7. Channel Islands Chapter California Native Plant Society, Ventura, CA,

Matthews, Mary Ann. 1997. An illustratedfield key to theflowering plants of Monterey County and ferns, fern allies, and conifers. Sacramento, CA: California Native Plant Society.

Ness, Bryan D. 1993. Fritillaria. In Hickman, James C. (ed.). The Jepson manual: higher plants of Caljfornia. Berkeley, CA: University of California Press.

Norman, Jeff. 1993. Letter to Karen Danielsen, Los Padres National Forest Botanist.

Painter, E.L. 2004. Individual taxon accounts. Science consistency review report. Unpublished document on file, Cleveland National Forest, San Diego, CA.

Smith, Clifton. 1998. Aflora of the Santa Barbara region, California. Santa Barbara, CA: Santa Barbara Botanic Garden & Capra Press.

Stephenson, John R.; Calcarone, Gena M. 1999. Southern Caflfornia mountains andfoothills assessment: habitat and species conservation issues. (General Technical Report GTR-PSW 172.) Albany, CA: Pacific Southwest Research Station, Forest Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Utech, Frederick H. 2002. LILIACEAEJussieu — Lily Family. In: Flora of North America, Volume 26, Mangoliophyta: Liliidae: Liliales and Orchidales. New York: Oxford University Press.

Piru, Potholes, & Temescal Allotments - 19 - Biological Evaluation, Plants 5/9/2007 Lloyd Simpson LOS PADRES NATIONAL FOREST OJAI RANGER DISTRICT

BIOLOGICAL EVALUATION FOR THREATENED, ENDANGERED, PROPOSED, AND SENSITIVE PLANT SPECIES

PIRU, POTHOLES, & TEMESCAL GRAZING ALLOTMENTS

Prepared By: 111 ,'ICe.- t02~ Date: 111ct1f 1. .2422--- Terry Austin I RESOURCE FORESTER

Reviewed By: ~ Aw"t~:--Date: ':; h /U70Z-- Mike Fost 7 I FOREST BOTANIST

I, INTRODUCTION

This biological evaluation (BE) analyzes the potential effects of authorizing grazing on the Lower Piru Allotments on the Threatened, Endangered, Proposed, and Sensitive plant species currently listed by the Regional Forester for the Los Padres National Forest (Los Padres National Forest, June 1998). Fieldwork was conducted by Richard A. Burgess and Patricia Munro in 1999 and 2000. Only those species that are known to occur or have the potential to occur on the Ojai Ranger District are considered in detail (Foster, January 2000). The names and current status of these species are shown in Table 1. The purpose of this BE is to review the Piru, Potholes, and Temescal Grazing Allotments in sufficient detail to determine if the proposed action may result in adverse impacts to the species listed in Table 1.

Vegetation within theallotinents can be characterized as arid coastal sage scrub, interspersed with annual grassland, and pockets of riparian woodland consisting mainly of California sycamore (Platanus racemosa), coast live oak (Quercus agrifolia), and occasional big-leaf maples (Acer macrophyllum). Slopes with thin soils support dense chaparral, dominated by chamise (Adenostoma fasciculatum). The elevation of the project area varies from about 1200 feet in the bottom of Canton, Reasoner, and Dominguez Canyons to nearly 3,000 feet at the upper end of the Potholes TraiL

Piru Allotment The Piru Allotment is located on the east side of Lake Piru. From the east side of the lake, the allotment extends in a northeast direction up Canton Canyon, forming an irregular boundary with the Forest on the east and extending to the general vicinity of Devil Canyon to the south. This allotment was surveyedon April 16-17, 1999 and May 28,2000.

From Lake Piru, Canton Canyon forms a broad floodplain which was created by the intermittent stream that drains the area. Vegetation consists of arid Riparian Scrub, interspersed with pockets of Annual Grassland on benches above the stream. Large riparian trees such as California sycamore (Platanus racemosa) and coast live oak (Quercus agrifolia) occur on protected benches and coves along the drainage. The mountainous terrain along the south side of Canton Canyon supports a mixture of Southern Oak Woodland/Coastal Sage Scrub interspersed with pockets of Annual Grassland, extending to chamise chaparral along the ridgeline north of Devil Canyon.

The extent of Canton Canyon was surveyed on foot during a two-day backpack trip in the Spring of 1999. Canton Canyon is a high-use portion of the alloment, with grazing pressure in the area resulting in lower plant species diversity.

Species diversity increases in the hills south of Canton Canyon which was accessed by the jeep road to Devil Canyon Trail. In particular, the presence of mesic chaparral and dense chamise-dominated chaparral in this area seemed to provide suitable habitat for two of the listed species, Ojai fritillary and Late-flowered mariposa lily, respectively. Although the area was surveyed during the appropriate blooming period, neither species was found.

During the course of the survey, Peirson's morning-glory (Calystegia peirsonii) was found in the grassland and shrubby areas adjacent to the jeep road in the southern portion of the allotment. This white-flowered perennial vine is a Federal Species of Concern and is on the CNPS Watch List. According to the CNPS Inventory of Rare and Endangered Vascular Plants of California (1994), this species is considered to be threatened by grazing.

Potholes Allotment The Potholes allotment is located on the west side of Lake Piru, north of Juan Fernandez Spring and south of Blue Point Campground. From the west side of the lake it extends in a northwesterly direction to the Pothole and Devil's Potrero. This allotment was surveyed on April 2, 1999, on July 2-5, 1999, and again on May 12-15,2000.

From Lake Piru, the Pothole Trail traverses an extremely steep arid Coastal Sage Scrub interspersed with Annual Grassland in more gently sloping areas. The canyons on the south side of the ridgeline support extensive annual grasslands with Riparian Woodland along the drainages. Cattle were evident throughout this area. The canyons on the north side of the ridgeline support dense chaparral.

After proceeding along the ridgeline for approximately two miles, the trail heads due north through dense chaparral, eventually curving around intervening ridges to arrive at Devil's Potrero. The Devil's Potrero is an oak savanna with very large coast live oaks separated by extensive Annual Grasslands. The Pothole, which is separated from the Devil's Potrero by a natural berm heavily vegetated with chaparral, consists of a large nearly circulaar depression which contains some standing water during wet years.

Lower elevation areas along the east side of the allotment are highly used by cattle. In general, grazing pressure in this area has resulted in a lower species diversity and none of the Sensitive plant species were found or is expected to occur based on the lack of suitable habitat.

Species diversity increases from the higher ridgelines along the Pothole Trail to the western portion of the allotment at Devil's Potrero. In particular, the presence of dense chamise-dominated chaparral in this area seemed to provide suitable habitat for the Late-flowered mariposa lily (Calochortus weedii var. vestus). This species was searched for throughout the allotment, and although several other species of Calochortus were found, this species was not. Although several regionally uncommon species were found, particularly in the western portion of the allotment, none of the Sensitive plant species were found.

During the course of the survey, Peirson's morning-glory (Calystegia peirsoniii was found in the grassland and shrubby areas adjacent to the Pothole Trail in the eastern portion of the allotment. This white-flowered perennial vine is a Federal Species of Concern and is on the CNPS Watch List. According to the CNPS Inventory of Rare and Endangered Vascular Plants of California (1994), this species is considered to be threatened by grazing ..

Temescal Allotment The Temescal Allotment is located on the west side of Lake Piru, south of the Pothole Allotment and north of Arundell Peak. The allotment is broken down into two units: 1) the Reasoner Unit which contains approximately 1,727 acres within the Forest; and 2) the Rodeo Springs Unit, which is located west of the Reasoner Unit and consists of approximately 1,119 acres within the Forest,which extends west into the Sespe Wilderness. Each of the units in bisected by canyons which support small streams; Reasoner Canyon which trends southeasterly across the Reasoner Unit, and Dominguez Canyon which . trends westerly across the Rodeo Springs Unit. This allotment whas surveyed on May 21,1999, and July 7,2000.

As might be expected based on their proximity, vegetation in both units is remarkably similar. Steep, thin-soiled areas support arid Coastal Sage Scrub interspersed with Annual Grassland in more gently sloping areas. Reasoner and Dominguez canyons support Riparian Woodland consisting mainly of California sycamore (Platanus racemosa), coast live oak (Quercus agrifolia) and occasional big-leaf maples (Acer macrophyllum) along the drainages. Oak woodlands are common within the canyons, away from the drainages. Extensive annual grasslands are found in gently sloping areas with deep soils such a s Rodeo Flat. North-facing slopes with thin soils support dense chaparral.

The entire allotment was acessed by vehicle using existing dirt roads from private land adjacent to the west side of Lake Piru. All habitats likely to support target species were surveyed on foot. None of the Sensitive plant species were found.

The presence of dense chamise-dominated chaparral in this area seemed to provide suitable habitat for the Late-flowered mariposa lily (Calochortus weedii var. vestus). This species was searched for throughout the allotment, and although several other species of Calochortus were found, this species was not.

In addtion, the occasional presence of big-leaf maple in the riparian woodland presented the possibility pfthe occurrence ofOjai fritillary (Fritillaria ojaiensis). However, the absence of big-cone Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga macrocarpa) and the lack of poorly consolidated shaly.banks with the correct exposure combined to make the presence of this plant doubtful. The authors are familiar with this species in all stages of its growth and although all suitable habitat was surveyed, Ojai fritillary was not found. Although several regionally uncommon species were found, particularly in the western portion ofthe allotment, none of the Sensitive plant species were found. (

During the course of the survey, Fish's milkwort (Polygala cornuta var.fishiae) was found in the mesic chaparral adjacent to a dirt road in the Rodeo Springs unit of the allotment. This pinkish-flowered shrub is a State-designated Special Plant and is on the CNPS Watch List. According to the CNPS Inventory of Rare and Endangered Vascular Plants of Cali fomi a (1994), this species is considered rare, but not endangered.

II. PROJECT DESCRIPTION

The Forest Service is proposing to reauthorize grazing on the Piru, Potholes, and Temescal allotments on the Ojai Ranger District in T. 5 N., R. 18 W., SBBM, covering approximately 10, 600 acres with modified boundaries, reduced numbers of cattle, and limited seasons of use.

The proposal is to authorize grazing on the Rodeo Flat Unit of the Temescal Allotment for 16 cow/calf pairs year-round for a term of 10 years on 42% National Forest System (NFS) lands (total of7 cow/calf pairs on NFS lands). The number of cattle proposed is equivalent to the amount authorized on the current permit for this unit. Grazing would be authorized on the Reasoner Unit ofthe Temescal Allotment for 25 cow/calf pairs from 7/1-1131 OR 13 cow/calf pairs year-round for a term of 10 years on 56% National Forest System (NFS) lands. The number of cattle proposed is one less cow/calf pair than is authorized year-round on the current permit for this unit.

The proposal authorizes grazing on the Piru Allotment for 20 cow/calf pairs (including bulls) year- round on 70% NFS lands for a 10-year term. This would reduce the permitted number from the currently authorized 30 cow/calf pairs and 4 bulls year-round and 30 yearlings for 6 months that are currently allowed on this allotment in combination with the Potholes Allotment.

The proposal divides the Potholes Allotment into two units, the Potholes Unit and the Lisk Unit. No grazing would be authorized on the Potholes Unit to preclude cattle from accessing endangered species habitat in Piru Creek via Agua Blanca Creek. On the Lisk Unit, if a fence is built to prevent cows from accessing endangered species habitat in Piru Creek, and permission is obtained to graze private land within the Lisk Unit, the proposal is 25 cow/calf pairs (including bulls) from 2/1-6/30. Without fencing, the proposal is no grazing on the Lisk Unit either, due to the likelihood that cattle would access the endangered species habitat along Piru Creek and Lake Piru.

TABLE 1. Common and Scientific Names and the status of the sensitive plant species known or suspected to occur on the Ojai Ranger District.

Species Scientific Name Status" #Palmer's Mariposa Lily Calochortus palmeri var. palmeri Sensitive #Late-tlowered Mariposa Lily Calochortus weedii var. vestus Sensitive Unexpected Larkspur Delphinium inopinum' Sensitive #Ojai Fritillary Fritillaria ojaiensis Sensitive #Pale-yellow Layia Layia heterotricha Sensitive Flax-like Monardella Monardella linoides ssp. oblonga Sensitive Baja Navarretia Navarretia peninsularis Sensitive #Rock Creek Broomrape Orobanche valida ssp. valida Sensitive #Abram's Oxytheca Oxytheca parishii var. abramsii Sensitive Parish's Checkerbloom 1 Sidalcea hickmanii ssp. parishii Sensitive #Southem Jewelflower Streptanthus campestris Sensitive Pine Green-gentian Swertia neglecta Sensitive * Status: USDI FWS October 31, 1997; USDA, FS-RS updated Sensitive Species list (June 1988); CDFG Special Plant List, January 1999. # Confirmed to occur on Ojai Ranger District 1 = Officially listed as Rare by the State of California

As shown in Table 2, there are two plant species of concern for this project, however no Threatened, Endangered, Proposed or Senstive plant species were found during surveys in 1999 and 2000.

TABLE 2. Potential for the Sensitive plant species known or suspected to occur on the Ojai Ranger District to be affected by the Piru Grazing Allotments.

SPECIES POTENTIAL RATIONALE FOR DETERMINATION OF NO EFFECT EFFECTS? Palmer's Mariposa No .The project area is below the elevation range of this species and there are no riparian habitats that are suitable for this subspecies. Late- flowered Yes Mariposa Lily Unexpected No The unexpected larkspur is a montane species and is not found in the Larkspur lower elevation habitats found in the project area. Ojai Fritillary Yes Pale-yellow Layia No Surveys for this species were negative. Typical habitat components for this species were lacking in the project area. Flax-like. Surveys for this species were negative. This taxon is found in Jeffrey Monardella No pine & pinyon pine forests/woodlands - vegetation types not found in the proj ect area. Baja Navarretia No Surveys for this species were negative. Typical habitat components for this species were lacking in the project area. Rock Creek No Surveys for this species were negative. This plant is found at higher Broomrape elevations and to the northwest of the project area. Abram's Oxytheca No Surveys for this species were negative. This plant is found at higher elevations and to the northwest of the project area. Parish's No Surveys for this species were negative. Typical habitat components for Checkerbloom .this species were lacking in the project area; Southern No Surveys for this species were negative. Typical habitat components for Jewelflower this species were lacking in the project area. Pine Green- No Surveys for this species were negative. This plant is found at higher gentian elevations in association with Jeffrey and pinyon pine.

III. MANAGEMENT DIRECTION (.

Current policy as shown in the Forest Service Manual (FSM 2670.31) is to use the biological assessment process to review actions and programs authorized, funded, or carried out by the Forest Service to determine their potential for effect on Threatened and Endangered species and species proposed for listing. This biological evaluation provides the directed review of the proposed action's potential effects on Threatened, Endangered, and Proposed plant species and has determined that the proposed action will not affect listed or proposed species (see Table 2).

For Sensitive species, as part of the NEPA process, it is Forest Service policy (FSM 2670.32) to review programs and activities, through a biological evaluation (BE), to determine their potential effect on Sensitive species. This BE reviews the proposed action to determine its potential to affect Sensitive plant species.

As shown in Table 2, the Late-flowered Mariposa lily and the Ojai fritillary may be affected by the proposed project. There would be no direct, indirect or cumulative effects to the other 10 Sensitive plant species listed.

IV. SPECIES ACCOUNTS

Calochortus weedii var. vestus Purdy Liliaceae (Lily Family)

The perennial late-flowered mariposa lily has a slender, generally branched stem and is 12-36 inches (30-90 em) tall. The basal leaves are 8-12 inches (20-40 em) long and wither with age while the upper cauline leaves are inrolled. There are 2-6 erect flowers composed of petals that are smaller or equal to the sepals. The petals are squarish and pale cream to purplish or red-brown. Its blooming period is from June to August. Late-flowered mariposa lily grows in cut banks, fuel breaks and dry, rocky places of chaparral and cismontane woodland often in areas with little herbaceous competition. This plant has frequently been reported in bum areas and is found on both sedimentary and serpentine soils at elevations below 3,600 feet (there are two locations reported between 5,000 and 6,300 feet but these reports need to be confirmed). Late-flowered mariposa lily ranges from the Santa Lucia Mountains of Monterey and San Luis Obispo Counties to the Santa Ynez Mountains of Santa Barbara and Ventura Counties. Locations reported on or adjacent to the ORD include: Old Man Mountain, near Black Mountain, Pratt Canyon Trail, Kennedy Canyon, Santa Paula Peak Trail, Santa Paula Canyon, Gridley Trail, and near the intersection of Highway 33 and the Ortega Trail just northwest of Holiday Group Campground.

Fritillaria ojaiensis David Liliaceae (Lily Family)

Ojai fritillary is an erect perennial to a height of 28 inches (70 em) with slender, linear leaves in 1-3 whorls of 3-5 leaves near the base. The leaves are alternate or opposite on the middle and upper portions of the stem. The leaves are 1.6-5 inches (4-13 em) long and linear to narrowly lanceolate. The flowers are nodding and greenish-yellow with purple mottling. The perianth segments are 0.6-1.2 inches (1.5-3 em) long and widely lanceolate. The nectary is somewhat indistinguishable from the rest of the flower. Ojai fritillary is known from less than ten confirmed locations, all on or adjacent to the LPNF. On ORD, it occurs near Big Cone Camp, Gridley Springs Camp, Sisar Canyon, Catharina Creek, and south of Wheeler Gorge Fire Station. Its habitat requirements seem to restrict it to moist areas on rocky slopes in chaparral, though at one location it occurs with Umbellularia californica and Acer macrophyllum. Ojai fritillary is found at elevations between 980 and 2,200 feet (300-670 m).

V. DIRECT, INDIRECT, AND CUMULATIVE EFFECTS

There are no known occurrences of Threatened, Endangered, Proposed, and Sensitive plant species within the project area. Marginal potential habitat for the Late-flowered mariposa lily and the Ojai fritillary exists, though no plants were found when selected areas with suitable habitat were surveyed.

For the most part, the cattle grazing in the Piru, Temescal, and Potholes Allotments spend the majority of their time in the grasslands with gentler slopes and in the adjoining plant communities where shade, water, and dust can be found. This reduces the potential risk to species such as Ojai fritillary which is found on moist, rocky slopes, and Late-flowered mariposa lily, found on dry, rocky fuel breaks and cut banks in chaparral. If the livestock do access potential habitat, and if plants are present, there is a risk that cattle grazing will impact individual plants by consuming or trampling the flowers, buds, or shoots. Affected plants may be impacted by lost plant parts such as leaves, stems, flowers, fruits, or seeds.

VI. DETERMINATION

It is my determination that the proposed alternative to authorize grazing on the Piru, Temescal, and Potholes Grazing Allotments:

1) would have no effect on Palmers Mariposa Lily, Unexpected Larkspur, Pale Yellow Layia, Flax- like Monardella, Baja Navarretia, Rock Creek Broomrape, Abram's Oxytheca, Parish's Checkerbloom, Southern Jewelflower, and Pine Green-Gentian.

2) may affect the Late-flowered Mariposa lily and the Ojai Fritillary, but is not likely to result in a trend toward Federal listing for these species.

VII. REFERENCES

California Department ofFish and Game, Natural Heritage Division. Special Plants List, July, 1999.

California Department ofFish and Game, Natural Heritage Division. RAREFIND electronic data base, 1997.

California Native Plant Society. Inventory of Rare and Endangered Vascular Plants of California. 1994.

Hickman, J. (ed.). The Jepson Manual, Higher Plants of California. 1993.Los Padres National Forest. Los Padres National Forest Soil Resource Inventory. 1989. .,'

LAKE PIRU GRAZING ALLOTMENT SURVEY TEMESCAL ALLOTMENT

BY

RICHARD A. BURGESS PATRICIA K. MUNRO Environmental Biology

Introduction

The purpose of this field survey was to determine the presence or absence of plant species listed on the Los Padres National Forest Threatened, Endangered, and Sensitive Plant List within the Rodeo Springs and Reasoner Units of the Temescal Allotment.

Methodology

The Temescal allotment was surveyed by vehicle and on foot utilizing existing trails, roads and accessible areas. Particular attention was given to areas likely to harbor sensitive plants based on the known habitat requirements of the target species. This allotment was surveyed twice at varying times of year in an attempt to accommodate the diverse flowering periods of the target species. A floristic inventory (available upon request) of all plants encountered was prepared, along with a map documenting the areas surveyed.

Target Species

Based on a literature review, information from the California Natural Diversity Data Base and extensive experience with the Ventura County Flora, the following Forest Service sensitive species could potentially occur on the subject allotment:

Threatened, Endangered or Sensitive Species of Potentia1 Occurrence on the Temesca1 A110tment

Scientific Name CNPS STATE FEDERAL

Calochortus weedii var. vestus IB None Concern Fritillaria ojaiensis IB None Concern Layia heterotricha IB None Con ce rn Oxytheca parishii var. abramsii IB None None Streptanthus campestris IB None None

Ca~ochortus weedii var. vestus (Liliaceae - Lily Family), the late-flowering mariposa lily is a bulbiferous perennial herb

1 which normally flowers from June through August. Flowers are borne on a slender branched stem and the petals are creme color to reddish brown with darker streaks and are extensively hairy on the inner surface. The plant is found in dry rocky habitats such as fuel breaks and along trail cuts in chaparral or cismontane woodland. Within the Los Padres Forest in Ventura County, it occurs below 3000 feet from the Matilija and Sespe drainages east to the vicinity of Santa Paula Peak. The largest observed population occurs in the vicinity of Ortega Trail in the Matilija watershed.

Within the Temescal Allotment, approximately 93 acres of suitable habitat for this species occurs in the Reasoner Unit and 57 acres in the Rodeo Springs Unit.

Friti~~ari.ojaiensis (Liliaceae - Lily Family), the Ojai fritillary is a bulbiferous perennial herb which flowers from March through May. The flowers which are borne on leafy stalks are greenish yellow with purple mottling. The flowering stalk is preceded by a large heart-shaped leaf which lies flat on the ground. The species is found on moist, poorly consolidated slopes in mesic chaparral or big-cone spruce woodland where it is often associated with big-leaf maple. Within the Los Padres Forest in Ventura County, it occurs between 1000 to 3800 feet from Wheeler Gorge and Catharina Creek to Gridley Springs, Sisar Canyon and Santa Paula Canyon. The largest observed population occurs in the vicinity of White Ledge Campground on the Red Reef Trail.

The presence of big leaf maple in the right elevational range suggests that Ojai fritillary may be present. Approximately 5 acres of marginally suitable habitat is present in each of the units.

Layia heterotriaha (Asteraceae - Sunflower Family), the pale yellow layia is a glandular herbaceous annual with an apple- scented odor. The ray flowers are creamy white to pale yellow and are borne on stalks which may be 18" high. The flowering period is from March through June. The species occurs in arid chaparral, big basin sagebrush and pinyon juniper woodland. Its distribution is sporadic and it generally does not form dense populations. Within the Los Padres Forest in Ventura County it is found principally on the north side of Pine Mountain in Apache Canyon, and in the Lockwood Valley. It has also been found at Potrero Seco.

Although arid chaparral is found in the Temescal Allotment, typical habitat components for this species were lacking and it

2 "

was not found within the allotment.

~eca parisbii yare abramsii (Polygonaceae - Buckwheat Family), Abrams oxytheca is a small herbaceous annual from 3 to 12" tall. The perianth is white to pink and is borne in an involucre which has 7-16 dark red awns. The species grows in open, sandy soils in chaparral and coniferous woodland between the elevations of 5000 to 6000 feet. Within the Los Padres Forest in Ventura County, it has been found in the Lockwood Valley, at Mt. Pinos and the Topatopa Mountains.

The highest elevation within the Rodeo Springs Unit is approximately 3000 feet, while elevations in the Reasoner Unit are generally lower and, although chaparral is present, coniferous woodlands are lacking. Based on the elevation of the allotment, which is lower than the species prefers, and the lack of typical habitat components, there is no suitable habitat for Abrams oxytheca on site.

Str~tanthus c~estris (Brassicaceae - Mustard Family), the southern jewelflower is a herbaceous biennial or short-lived perennial which is 1 - 2' tall. The flowers which are borne in a raceme are yellow with light purple tips and occur from May through July. The species is found in steep rocky areas in chaparral or big-cone spruce woodland at elevations of 2700 to 6900'. An extremely rare plant, the only recent record in Ventura County is amongst boulders under big-cone spruce in the vicinity of Divide Peak. The plant has also been noted in the Santa Ynez Mountains west of Ojai.

There are no areas within the Temescal Allotment which fulfill the habitat requirements for this plant.

Temescal Grazing Allotment Survey.

The Temescal Grazing Allotment is located on the west side of Lake Piru south of the Pothole Allotment and north of Arundell Peak. The allotment is broken down into two units: 1) the Reasoner Unit which contains approximately 1,727 acres within the Forest and 2) the Rodeo Springs Unit which is located west of the Reasoner Unit and consists of approximately 1,119 acres within the Forest, extending west into the Sespe Wilderness. Each of the units is bisected by canyons which support small streams: Reasoner Canyon which trends southeasterly across the Reasoner Unit and Dominguez Canyon which trends westerly across the Rodeo Springs Unit. This allotment was surveyed on May 21, 1999, and on July 7, 2000.

3 As might be expected based on their proximity, vegetation in both units is remarkably similar. Steep thin-soiled areas support arid Coastal Sage Scrub interspersed with Annual Grassland in more gently sloping areas. Reasoner and Dominguez canyons support Riparian Woodland consisting mainly of California sycamore (Platanus racemosa), coast live oak (Quercus agrifolia)and occasional big-leaf maples (Acer macrophyllum) along the drainages. Oak woodlands are common within the canyons, away from the drainages. Extensive annual grasslands are found in gently sloping areas with deep soils such as Rodeo Flat. North- facing slopes with thin soils support dense chaparral.

The entire allotment was accessed by vehicle using existing dirt roads from private land adjacent to the west side of Lake Piru. All habitats likely to support target species were surveyed on foot. None of the target species was found. Target species for which there is marginally suitable habitat are discussed below.

The presence of dense chamise dominated chaparral in this allotment seemed to provide suitable habitat for one of the target species, late-flowered mariposa lily (Calochortus weedii var. vestus). This species which flowers from July through August, was searched for throughout the allotment, and although several other species of Calochortus were found the target species was not.

In addition, the occasional presence of big-leaf maple in riparian woodland presented at least the possibility of the occurrence of Ojai fritillary (Fritillaria ojaiensis). However, the absence of big-cone spruce (Pseudotsuga macrocarpa) and the lack of poorly consolidated shaly banks with the correct exposure combined to make the presence of this plant doubtful. The authors are familiar with this species in all stages of its growth and although all suitable habitat was surveyed, Ojai fritillary was not found.

A floristic inventory based on our field work was compiled (available upon request). Although several regionally uncommon species were found, principally in the western portion of the allotment, none of the target species was found. However, it should be noted that, as with all sensitive plant surveys, the fact that a species was not found does not guarantee that it is not present on the site.

Sensitive Species

During the course of the survey, Fish's milkwort (Polygala cornuta var. fishiae) was found in mesic chaparral adjacent to a

4 (

dirt road in the Rodeo Springs unit of the allotment. This pinkish flowered shrub is a State designated Special Plant and is on the CNPS Watch List. According to the CNPS Inventory of Rare and Endangered Vascular Plants of California (1994), the species is considered rare but not endangered.

a:temescalga

5 JUN-21-00 ~7.16 FRDM.CiLy Hf TO PLANNING ID. 80Sqq~_23Sill PAGE 2/9

"

LAKE PIRU GRAZING ALLOTMENT SURVEY PIRU ALLoTMENT

BY PATRICIA R. MUNRO Environmental Biology Introduction The purpose of this field survey was to determine the presence or absence of plant species listed on the Los Padres National Forest Threatened, Endangered, and sensitive Plant List within the Piru Allotment. Methodology The piru allotment was surveyed by vehicle and on foot utilizing existing trails, roads and accessible areas. Particular attention was given to areas likely to harbor sensitive plants based on the known habitat requirements of the target species. This allotment was surveyed twice at varying times of year in an attempt to accommodate the diverse flowering periods of the target species. A floristic inventory (available upon request) of all plants encountered was prepared, along with a map documenting the areas surveyed. ~rget Species Based on a literature review, information from the California Natural Diversity Data Base and extensive experience with the Ventura county Flora, the fol1o~ing Forest Service sensitive species could potentially occur on the subject allotment: Threatened, Endangered or Sensitive Species of Potential Occurrence on the Pothole Allotment

Scientific Na.e CHPS STATE FEDERAL

Calochortus weedii var. vestus IB None Concern Fritillaria ojaiensis 1B None Concern Layia heterotricba 1B None Concern Oxytbeca parisbii var. a~ramsii 1B None None Streptantbus campestris IB None None calocbortus weedii var. vestus (Liliaceae - Lily Family), the late-flower~ng mariposa lily is a, bulbiferous perennial herb which normally flowers from June through August. Flowers are borne on a slender branched st~m and the petals are creme color to reddish brown with darker streaks and are extensively hairy on the inner surface. Tbe plant is found in dry rocky habitats such as fuel breaks and along trail cuts in chaparral or cis~ontane woodland. Within the Los Padres Forest in ventura County, it occurs below 3000 feet from the Matilija and Sespe drainages east JUN-21-00 07.17 FROM.City ~f TO PLANNING .. ID.e05qq~!2350 PAGE 3/9

to the vicinity of Santa Paula peak. The largest observed population occurs in the vicinity of ortega Trail in the Matilija watershed. Approximately 200 acres of suitable habitat for this species occurs in the Piru allotment. Fritillaria ojaiensis (Liliaceae - Lily Family), the Ojai fritillary is a bulbiferous perennial herb which flowers from March through May. The flowers ~hich are borne on leafy stalks are greenish yellow with purple mottling. The flowering stalk is preceded by a large heart-shaped leaf which lies flat on the ground. The species is found on moist, poorly consolidated slopes in mesic chaparral or big-cone spruce woodland where it is often associated with big-leaf maple. Within the Los Padres Forest in Ventura county, it occurs between 1000 to 3800 feet from Wheeler Gorge and Catharina Creek to Gridley Springs, Sisar Canyon and Santa Paula Canyon. The largest observed population occurs in the vicinity of White Ledge Campground on the Red Reef Trail.

Suitable habitat (20 acres) in the form of mesic chaparral/oak woodland was found along the jeep road to Devil Canyon. Layia he~erotricha (Asteraceae - Sunflower Family), the pale yellow layia is a glandular herbaceous annual with an apple- scented odor. The ray flowers are crea~y white to pale yellow and are borne on stalks which may be 18" high. The flowering period is from March through June. The species occurs in arid chaparral, big basin sagebrush and pinyon juniper woodland. Its distribution is sporadic and it generally does not form dense populations. Within the Los Padres Forest in Ventura county it is found principally on the north side of Pine Mountain in Apache canyon, and in the Lockwood Valley. It has also been found at Potrero Seco. Although arid chaparral is found in the Piru Allotment, typical habitat components for this species were lacking and it was not found within the allotment. Oxytbeca parishii var- abraa8ii (Polygonaceae - Buckwheat Family), Abrams oxytheca is a small herbaceous annual from 3 to 12n tall. The perianth is white to pink and is borne in an involucre which has 7-16 dark red awns. The species grows in open, sandy soils in chaparral and coniferous woodland between the elevations of 5000 to 6000 feet. Within the Los Padres Forest in Ventura County, it has been found in the Lockwood Valley, at Mt. Pinos and the Topatopa Mountains. The highest elevation within the Piru Allotment is approxi~ately 2400 ~eet and, although chaparral is present, coniferous woodlands are lacking. Based on the elevation of the allotment, which is lower than the species prefers, and the laCK ot typical habitat components, tnere is no suitable habitat for Abrams JUN-21-00 07,18 FROM'Ci~y of TO PLANNING ID,8054'H3?350 PAGE 4/9

oxytheca on site. streptantbus campestris (Brassicaceae - Mustard Family), the southern jewelflower is a herbaceous biennial or short-lived perennial which is I - 2' tall. The flowers which are borne in a raceme are yellow with light purple tips and occur from May throuqh July. The species is found in steep rocky areas in chaparral or biq-cone spruce woodland at elevations of 2700 to 6900'. An extremely rare plant, the only recent record in ventura county is amonqst boulders under big-cone spruce in the vicinity of Divide Peak. The plant has also been noted in the Santa Ynez Mountains west of Ojai. There are no areas within the piru Allotment which fulfill the habitat require~ents for this plant. Piru Grazing Allotment Surve~ The Piru Grazing Allotment is located on the east side of Lake Piru. From the east side of the lake, it extends in a northeast direction up canton Canyon forming an irregular boundary with the forest on the east and extending to the general vicinity of Devil Canyon on the south. This allotment ~as surveyed on April 16 and 17, 1999, and May 28, 2000. Primary access to the area was provided by canton Canyon. From Lake Piru, canton Canyon forms a broad floodplain which has been created by the intermittent stream which drains the area. Vegetation in this area consists of arid Riparian Scrub interspersed with Annual Grassland on benches above the stream. Large riparian trees such as California sycamore (Platanus racemosa) and coast li~e oak (Quercus agriIolia) occur on protected benches and coves along the drainage. The mountainous terrain along the south side of Canton canyon supports a mixture of Southern Oak Woodland/Coastal Sage Scrub interspersed with pockets of Annual Grassland, ~xtending to chamise chaparral along the ridgeline north of Devil Canyon. The extent of Canton Canyon was surveyed on foot during a two day backpack in 1999(See map). Based on the maps provided by the Forest Service and our own observations, Canton canyon is a high use portion of the allotment. In general, grazing pressure in this area has resulted in a lower species diversity and none of the target species was found. species diversity increases in the hills south of Canton Canyon ~hich was accessed by the jeep road to Devil Canyon Trail. In particular, the presence of mesic chaparral and dense chamise dominated ohaparral in this area seemed to provide suitable habitat for two of the target species, Ojai fritillary (Fritillaria ojaiensis) and late-flowered mariposa lily (Calocbortus weedii var. veseus), respectively. Although the area was surveyed during the appropriate blooming period, neither JUN-21-00 07,18 FROM'Ci~y of TO PLANNING ID,80SQQ923S0 PAGE 5/9 , '

species was found. A floristic inventory based on our field work was compiled (available upon request). Although several regionally uncommon species were found, principally in the southern portion of the allotment, none of the target species was found. However, it should be noted that, as with all sensitive plant surveys, the fact that a species was not found does not guarantee that it is not present on the site. Sensitive Species During the course of the survey, Peirson's morning-glory (ca~ystegia peirsonii) ~as found in grassland and shrubbY areas adjacent to the jeep road in the southern portion of the allotment. This white-flowered perennial vine is a Federal Species of Concern and is on the CNPS WatCh List. According to the CNPS Inventory of Rare and Endangered Vascular Plants of California (1994) this species is considered to be threatened by grazing. JUN-21-00 07,19 FROM'CiLy of TO PLANNING 10,8054492350 PAGE 6/9

LAKE PIRU CRAZING ALLOTMENT SURVEY POTHOLE ALLOTMENT

BY RICHARD A. BURGESS Environ~ental Biology .I,.ntroduction The purpose of this field survey was to determine the presence or absence of plant species listed on the LoS Padres National Forest Threatened, Endangered, and Sensitive Plant List within the Pothole Allotment. Methodology The pothole allotment was surveyed by vehicle and on foot utilizing existing trails, roads and accessible areas_ Particular attention ~as given to areas likely to harbor sensitive plants based on the known habitat requirements of the target species. This allot~ent was surveyed three times at varying times of year in an attempt to accommodate the diverse flowering periods of the target speoies. A floristic inventory (available upon request) of all plants encountered was prepared, along with a uap documenting the areas surveyed. Target Species

Based on a literature review, information from the California Natural Diversity Data Base and extensive experience with the Ventura County Flora, the following Forest Service sensitive species could potentially occur on the subject allotment: Threatened, Rndanqered or sansi ti ve species of Potential Occurrence on the Pothole Allotment

Scientific Name CHPS STATE F'EDERAL

Calochortus weedii var. ves~us IB None Concern Fritillaria ojaiensis IB None Concern Layi~ heterotricha 1B None Concern oxytbeca parishii var. abramsii IS None None streptanthus campestris IS None None Calocbortus weedii var. vestus (Liliaceae - Lily Family), the late-flowering mariposa lily is a bulbiferous perennial herb which normally flowers from June through August. Flowers are borne on a slender branched stem and the petals are creme color to reddish brown with darker streaks and are extensively hairy on the inner surface. The plant is found in dry rocky habitats such as fuel breaks and along trail cuts in chaparral or cismontane WOodland. Within the Los Padres Forest in Ventura county, it occurs below 3000 feet from the Matilija and Sespe drainages east JUN-21-00 07.18 FROM.CiLy tir TO PLANNING IO.8054482350 P,n.GE 7/9

, ,

to the vicinity of Santa Paula Peak. The largest observed population occurs in the vicinity of Ortega Trail in the Matilija watershed. Approximately 148 acres of suitable habitat for this species occurs in the Pothole allotment. Fritillaria ojaiensis (Liliaceae - Lily Family), the ojai fritillary is a bulbiferous perennial herb ~hich flowers from March through May. The flowers which are borne on leafy stalks are greenish yellow with purple mottling. The flowering stalk is preceded by a large heart-shaped leaf which lies flat on the ground. The species is found on moist, poorly consolidated slopes in ~esic chaparral or big-cone spruce woodland where it is often associated with big-leaf maple. within the Los Padres Forest in Ventura County, it occurs between 1000 to 3800 feet from Wheeler GOrge and Catharina Creek to Gridley springs, Sisar Canyon and Santa Paula Canyon. The largest obsarved population occurs in the vicinity of White Ledge Campground on the Red Reef Trail. Although suitable habitat for this species occurs north of the Pothole Allotment in the vicinity of Aqua Blanca Creek, there did not appear to be any suitable habitat within the allotment. Layia he~erotricba (Asteraceae - Sunflower Family), the pale yellow layia is a glandular herbaceous annual with an apple- scented odor. The ray flowers are creamy white to pale yellow and are borne on stalks Which may be 1S" high. The flowering period is from March through June. The species occurs in arid chaparral, big basin sagebrush and pinyon juniper woodland. Its distribution is sporadic and it generally does not forn dense populations. Within the Los Padres Forest in Ventura county it is found principally on the north side of Pine Mountain in Apache Canyon, and in the Lockwood Valley. It has alsO been found at Potrero SaCO. Although arid chaparral is found in the Pothole Allotment, typical habitat components for this species were lacking and it was not found within the allotment. Ozytbeca parishii var. abramsii (Polygonaceae - Buckwheat Family), Abrams oxytheca is a small herbaceous annual from 3 to l~n tall. The perianth is white to pink and is borne in an involucre which has 7-16 dark red awns. The species grows in open, sandy soils in chaparral and coniferous woodland between the ele~ations of 5000 to 6000 teet. Within the Los Padres Forest in ventura County, it has been found in the Lockwood Valley, at Mt. Pinos and the Topatopa Mountains. The highest elevation within the Pothole Allotment is approximately 3500 feet and, although chaparral is present, coniferous woodlands are lacking. Based on the elevation of the allotment, which is lower than the species prefers, and the lack JUN-21-00 07,20 FROM,City of TO PLANNING IO,80S'l'l92350 PAGE 8/9

of typical habitat components, there is no suitable habita~ for Abra~s oxytheca on site. s~reptanthus caapestris (Brassicaceae - Mustard Family), the southern jewelflower is a herbaceous biennial or short-lived perennial which is 1 - 2' tall. The flowers which are borne in a raceme are yellow with light purple tips and occur from May through July. Th~ species is found in steep rocky areas in chaparral or big-cone spruce woodland at elevations of 2700 to 6900'. An extremely rare plant, the only recent record in ventura County is amongst boulders under big-cone spruce in the vicinity of Divide Peak. The plant has also been noted in the Santa Ynez Mountains west of ojai. Although there is potential habitat for this species north of Pothole Springs, there are no areas within the Pothole Allotment which fulfill the habitat requirements for this plant. fothole Gr~zing Allotment Survey The Pothole Grazing Allotment is located on the west side of Lake Piru north of Juan Fernandez Spring and south of Blue Point campground. From the west side of the lake, it extends in a northwesterly direction to The pothole and nevil's potrero. This allotment was surveyed on April ~ 1999, on July 2 through July 5, 1999 and again on May 12 through May 15, 2000. Primary access to the area was provided by the Pothole Trail (18W04). From Lake Piru, the Pothole Trail traverses an extremely steep arid southeast facing ridgeline. Vegetation in this area consists of arid Coastal Sage Scrub interspersed with Annual Grassland in more gently sloping areas. The canyons on the south side of the ridgeline support extensive annual grasslands with Riparian Woodland along the drainages. cattle were evident throughout this area. The canyons on the north side of the ridgeline support dense chaparral. After proceeding along the ridgeline for approximately two miles, the trail heads due north through dense Chaparral, eventually curving around intervening ridges to arrive at Devil's Potrero. The Devil's potrero is an oak savanna with very large coast live oaks separated by extensive Annual Grasslands. The Pothole which is separated from the Devil's Potrero by a natural berm heavily vegetated with Chaparral consists of a large nearly circular depression which apparently contains some standing water during wet years. Lower elevation areas along the east side of the allotment were accessed on toot using existing roads, drainages and gentle ridgelines (See map). Based on the maps provided by the Forest Service and our own observations, this is a high use portion of the allotment. In general, grazing pressure in this area has resulted in a lower species diversity and none of the target species was found or is expected based on the lack of suitable JUN-21-00 07,20 FROM,Ci~y of TO PLANNING IO,S0SQQ92350 , -, PAGE 8/9

habitat. Species diversity increases from the higner ridgelines along the Potnole trail to the western portion of the allotment at Devil's Potrero_ In particular, the presence of dense chamise dominated chaparral in this area seemed to provide suitable habitat for one of the target species, late-flowered mariposa lily (Calochortu5 weedii var. vestus). This species which flowers from July through August, was searched for throughout the allotment, and although several other species of Calochortus were found the target species was not. A floristic inventory based on our field work was compiled (available upon request). Although several regionally uncommon species were found, principally in the western portion of the allotment, none of the target species was found. However, it should be noted that, as with all sensitive plant surveys, the fact that a species wa~ not found does not guarantee that it is not present on the site. Sensitive species During the course of the survey, Peirson's morning-glory (Calystegia peirsonii) was found in grassland and shrubby areas adjacent to the Pothole Trail in the eastern portion of the allotment. This white-flowered perennial vine is a Federal Species of Concern and is on the CNPS Watch List. According to the CNPS Inventory of Rare and Endangered Vascular Plants of California (1994), this species is considered to be threatened by grazing.

pothole.ga I][ L 2:~ June. -zo» ,

A FLORISTIC INVENTORY OF THE POTHOLE GRAZING ALLOTMENT

Richard A. Burgess Botanical Consultants

PTERIDOPHYTES - FERNS AND FERN ALLIES

Polypodiaceae - Fern Family

Adiantum jordanii/ California maidenhair fern P Dryopteris arguta/ coastal wood fern P,T Pellaea andromedifolia/ coffee fern F

ANGIOSPERMS - FLOWERING PLANTS

DICOTYLEDONES - DICOTS

Anacardiaceae - Sumac Family

Rhus ovataj sugar bush F Rhus trilobata/ basket bush P Toxicodendron diversilobum/ poison oak P

Apiaceae - Carrot Family

Lomatium dasycarpum ssp. dasycarpum/ woolly-fruited lomatium T Lomatium uticulatum/ hog-fennel F Sanicula tuberosaj turkey pea F Tauschia hartwegii/ Hartweg's tauschia F

Apocynaceae -Dogbane Family

Apocynum cannabinum L./ Indian hemp P

Asclepiadaceae - Milkweed Family

Asclepias eriocarpa/ Indian milkweed F Asclepias fascicularisj narrow-leaf milkweed F

Asteraceae - Sunflower Family

Acourtia microcephala/ sacapellote F,T Agoseris grandiflora/ large-flowered agoseris P,T Artemisia californica/ coastal sagebrush F Artemisis douglasiana/ mugwort P Artemisia dracunculus/ dragon mugwort P Cirsium occidentale var. occidentalej cobwebby thistle FP Cirsium vulgare/ bull thistle F Erigeron foliosus/ leafy daisy P Gnaphalium californicumj green everlasting F Gnaphalium luteo-album/ weedy cudweed P Gnaphalium palustre/ wooly cudweed P Helianthus gracilentus/ slender sunflower F Hemizonia fasciculata/ fascicled tarweed F Heterotheca sessililflora ssp. sessiliflora/ hairy golden aster P Lactuca serriola/ prickly lettuce P Madia gracilis/ slender tarweed P Malacothrix saxatilis var. commutata/ cliff aster F Micropus californicus var. californicus/ slender cottonweed F Microseris douglasii ssp. tenella/ Douglas' microseris T Psilocarphus tenellus var. tenellus/ woolly marbles T Senecio flaccidus var. douglasii/ bush groundsel F silybum marianum/ milk thistle F Stephanomeria virgata/ wraith flower F Xanthium strumarium/ cocklebur P

Boraginaceae - Borage Family

Amsinckia menziesii var. intermedia/ common fiddleneck F Amsinckia menziesii var. menziesii/ common fiddleneck F Cryptantha microstachys/ Fort Tejon cryptantha T cryptantha muricata/ prickly cryptantha F,T pectocarya penicillata/ winged pectocarya P

Brassicaceae - Mustard Family

Arabis glabra/ tower mustard T Brassica nigra/ black mustard F Capsella bursa-pastoris/ shepherd's purse F Lepidium nitidum var. nitidum/ common peppergrass F Rapistrum rugosum/ wild turnip G Rorippa nasturtium-aquaticum/ water cress P Sisymbrium altissimum/ tumble mustard P sisymbrium orientale/ oriental mustard F

Caprifoliaceae - Honeysuckle Family

Lonicera subspicata var. denudata/ chaparral honeysuckle F Sambucus mexicana/ elderberry FP Symphoricarpos mollis/ Nuttall's snowberry P

Caryophyllaceae - Pink Family

Silene verecunda ssp. platyota/ Cuyamaca Indian pink P Stellaria nitens/ shiny chickweed P

Chenopodiaceae - Goosefoot Family

Chenopodium album/ lamb's quarters P Chenopodium californicum/ California goosefoot

Convolvulaceae - Morning-glory Family

Calystegia macrostegia ssp. cyclostegia/ coastal morning-glory F,G calystegia peirsonii/ Peirson's morning-glory F,G Convolvulus arvensisj bindweed F Cucurbitaceae - Gourd Family

Cucurbi~a foetidissima/ calabazilla F,P Marah macrocarpus var. macrocarpus/ manroot FTP

Ericaceae - Heath Family

Arctos~aphylos glandulosa ssp. mollis/ Eastwood manzanita FT Arctos~aphylos glauca/ big-berry manzanita T

Euphorbiaceae - Spurge Family

Chamaesyce albomarginata/ rattlesnake weed F

Fabaceae - Pea Family

Amorpha californica/ false indigo P,T As~ragalus didymocarpus var. didymocarpus/ common dwarf .locoweed F As~ragalus ~richopodus var. ~richopodus/ Santa Barbara locoweed F La~hyrus vestitus/ wild sweetpea F,T Lo~us scoparius/ deerweed F Lupinus albifrons var. albifrons/ silver lupine F Lupinus bicolor/ dove lupine F,P Lupinus ela~us/ silky lupine P * Lupinus hirsutissimus/ nettle lupine P Lupinus microcarpus var. horizontalis/ chick lupine F Lupinus succulen~us/ succulent lupine F Lupinus ~runcatus/ Nuttall's annual lupine F Trifolium gracilen~um var. gracilen~um/ pinpoint clover P

Fagaceae - Oak Family

Quercus agrifolia/ coast live oak FP Quercus berberidifolia/ scrub oak T

Geraniaceae - Geranium Family

Erodium cicu~arium/ redstem filaree F

Grossulariaceae - Gooseberry Family

Ribes malvaceum var. malvaceum/ chaparral current F

Hydrophyllaceae - Waterleaf Family

Eucryp~a chrysan~hemifolia/ common eucrypta T,P Eriodic~yon crassifolium var. nigrescens/ bicolored yerba santa FTP Phacelia cicu~aria var. hubbyi/ Hubby's phacelia F Phacelia ramosissima var. la~ifolia/ rambling phacelia F Juglandaceae - Walnut Family

Juglans californica var. californica/ Southern California black walnut F

Lamiaceae - Mint Family

Salvia apiana/ white sage T,P Salvia columbariae/ chia F Salvia leucophyllaj purple sage F Salvia mellifera/ black sage F,T

Loasaceae - Blazing Star Family

Mentzelia dispersal nada stick-leaf F Mentzelia micrantha/ small-flowered stick-leaf T

Malvaceae - Mallow Family

Malacothamnus fasciculatus/ chaparral mallow F

Nyctaginaceae - Four O'clock Family

Mirabilis californica/ wishbone bush F

Oleaceae - Olive Family

Fraxinus dipetala/ foothill ash F

Onagraceae - Evening-Primrose Family camissonia bistorta/ suncup P Camissonia strigulosa/ contorted primrose P Clarkia purpurea ssp. quadrivulnera/ purple clarkia P Clarkia rhomboidea/ rhomboid clarkia P

Orobanchaceae - Broom-Rape Family

Orobanche bulbosa/ chaparral broomrape T

Paeoniaceae - Peony Family

Paeonia californica/ California peony P

Papaveraceae - Poppy Family

Dendromecon rigida ssp. rigida/ bush poppy F Stylomecon heterophylla/ wind poppy P

Plantaginaceae - Plantain Family

Plantago erecta/ California plantain F Platanaceae - Sycamore Family

Platanus racemosa/ California sycamore F,P

Polemoniaceae - Phlox Family

Allophyllum glutinosum/ allophyllum P Gilia angelensis/ angel gilia F Gilia splendens ssp. splendens/ splendid gilia F Leptodactylon californicum/ prickly phlox T,F Linanthus parviflorus/ common linanthus P

Polygonaceae - Buckwheat Family

Eriogonum elongatum/ wand eriogonum F Eriogonum fasciculatum var. fasciculatum/ California buckwheat F Eriogonum fasciculatum var. polifoliumj California buckwheat F Eriogonum saxatile/ rock buckwheat T Eriogonum nudum/ naked-stemmed eriogonum P,T Oxytheca trilobata/ three-lobed oxytheca T Polygonum arenastrum/ common knotweed P

Portulacaceae - Purslane Family claytonia parviflora ssp. parvifloraj claytonia T,P Claytonia parviflora ssp. viridis/ claytonia P claytonia perfoliata ssp. perfoliata/ claytonia T,P

Rhamnaceae - Buckthorn Family ceanothus cuneatus var. cuneatus/ buck brush F ceanothus oliganthus var. oliganthus/ hairy ceanothus F Rhamnus ilicifoliaj holly-leaved redberry P,T

Rosaceae - Rose Family

Adenostoma fasciculatum/ chamise FTP Heteromeles arbutifolia/ toyon F Potentilla rivalis/ river cinquefoil P Rubus ursinus/ California blackberry P

Rubiaceae - Madder Family

Galium andrewsii ssp. intermedium/ phlox-le,aved bedstraw F Galium angustifolium ssp. angustifolium/ narrow-leaved bedstraw T Galium aparine/ bedstraw P

Salicaceae - Willow Family

Populus fremontii/ Fremont cottonwood P Salix lucidai ssp. lasiandra/ yellow willow P Saururaceae - Lizard's-Tail Family

Anemopsis californicaj yerba mansa F

Scrophulariaceae - Figwort Family

Antirrhinum coulterianumj white snapdragon P Antirrhinum multiflorumj chaparral snapdragon F Castilleja applegatei ssp. martiniij Martin's Indian paintbrush F castilleja foliolosaj woolly Indian paintbrush F Collinsia heterophyllaj Chinese houses P Keckiella brevifloraj gaping penstemon P,T Keckiella cordifoliaj heartleaf penstemon F,T Mimulus aurantiacusj bush monkey flower T Mimulus tilingiij monkey flower P Penstemon centranthifoliusj scarlet bugler T Penstemon heterophyllusj chaparral penstemon F,T Scrophularia californica ssp. floribundaj California figwort F

Solanaceae - Nightshade Family

Nicotiana attenuataj coyote tobacco P Nicotiana glaucaj tree tobacco TP

Sterculiaceae - Cacao Family

Fremontodendron californicum ssp. californicumj flannel bush T

urticaceae - Nettle Family urtica dioica ssp. holosericeaj stinging nettle P

Verbenaceae - Verbena Family

Verbena bracteataj bracted verbena P Verbena lasiostachysj western verbena P

Violaceae - Violet Family

Viola pedunculataj johnny-jump-up F

MONOCOTYLEDONES - MONOCOTS

Cyperaceae - Sedge Family

Scirpus americanusj Olney's bulrush P

Liliaceae - Lily Family

Calochortus clavatus var. pallidusj yellow mariposa F Calochortus venustusj butterfly mariposa lily F,G chlorogalum pomeridianum var. pomeridianumj soap plant F,T Dichelostemma capitatumj blue dicks F,P Yucca whippleij chaparral yucca F Poaceae - Grass Family

Achnatherum coronatum/ giant stipa T Bromus diandrus/ ripgut grass FP Bromus hordeaceusj soft chess FP Bromus tectorum/ downy chess FP Bromus madritensis ssp. rubensj red brome FP Elymus glaucus ssp. jepsonii/ western rye P Leymus condensatus/ giant rye F Melica imperfecta/ coast-range melic T Nasella pulchra/ purple needle grass F Phalaris paradoxa/ paradox canary grass P Poa secunda/ one-sided blue grass T Schismus arabicus/ Arabian grass P Vulpia myuros yare hirsuta/ foxtail fescue FP

Legend

F = Firebreak- Main trail T = Trail from firebreak to Pothole P = Vicinity of Pothole and Devil's Potrero G = Grasslands in southwestern portion of allotment pothole. fIr ( (

Los Padres National Forest. Sensitive plant habitat and occurrence maps, and unpublished occurrence records. 1998.

Los Padres National Forest. Threatened, Endangered, and Sensitive Species of the Los Padres National Forest. June, 1998

Los Padres National Forest Land and Resource Management Plan. 1988.

Smith, C.F. A Flora of the Santa Barbara Region. 1976.

Twisselmann, E. A flora of Kern County, California. 1995.

USDA Forest Service. Forest Service Manual: Wildlife, Fish, and Sensitive Plant Habitat Management (section 2670), WO Amendment 2600-90-1 Effective6/1/90.

USDA Forest Service. Threatened and Endangered Plants Program Handbook (R-5 FSH 2609.25) Amendment 1, Exhibit 1: R-5 Sensitive Plant Species. 1990.

USDI Fish and Wildlife Service. Unpublished Species list. October 8, 1997.

USDI Fish and Wildlife Service. Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants. 50 CFR 17.11 and 17.12. October 31, 1997.