CONSERVATION PLAN

CERRO SAN LUIS NATURAL RESERVE

Prepared by The Natural Resources Program ▪ Administration Department City of San Luis Obispo ▪ 990 Palm Street ▪ San Luis Obispo ▪ CA 93401

City of San Luis Obispo

Natural Resources Protection Program www.slocity.org/naturalresources

Neil Havlik, Ph.D. Natural Resources Manager 805.781.7211

Michael Clarke, Ph.D. Biologist 805.781.7511

Published September 2005

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Cerro San Luis 1890 Photo courtesy of John French.

Cerro San Luis 2005 City of San Luis Obispo photo.

ii Cerro San Luis Natural Reserve Conservation Plan

Table of Contents Executive Summary List of Figures 1. Introduction...... 2 1.1 History...... 4 Figure 1 Cerro San Luis Natural Reserve 1.2 Background...... 5 Regional Setting ...... 3 1.3 Legal Considerations...... 5 Figure 2 CSLNR Physical Features...... 7 1.4 Access ...... 5 Figure 3 CSLNR Soil Types...... 8 2. Inventory...... 6 Figure 4 CSLNR Habitat Types ...... 14 2.1 Physical Features ...... 6 Figure 5 CSLNR Sensitive Species...... 15 2.2 Soils...... 6 Figure 6 CSLNR Land Use Designations ....28 2.3 Cultural Resources ...... 9 Figure 7 CSLNR Wildfire Preparedness...... 33 2.4 Natural Resources...... 9 Figure 8 CSLNR Photo-points ...... 36-37 2.4.1 Grassland Habitat ...... 9 2.4.2 Coastal Scrub Habitat...... 10 2.4.3 Coast Live Oak Woodland Habitat ...... 11 2.4.4 Opuntia Scrub Habitat ...... 12 2.4.5 Introduced Trees...... 12 2.5 Sensitive Habitats...... 13 List of Tables 2.6 Birds...... 16 2.7 Mammals ...... 20 Table 1 List of Birds Identified During Wildlife 2.8 Reptiles...... 22 Surveys of the CSLNR ...... 18 2.9 Amphibians...... 24 Table 2 List of Mammals Identified During 2.10 Invertebrates...... 24 Wildlife Surveys of the CSLNR...... 21 3. Goals & Recommendations...... 26 Table 3 List of Reptiles Identified During 4. Conservation Plan ...... 27 Wildlife Surveys of the CSLNR...... 23 5. Implementation Strategy...... 31 Table 4 List of Invertebrate Species Identified 5.1 Ongoing Tasks...... 31 During Wildlife Surveys of the 5.2 Specific Tasks...... 31 CSLNR ...... 25 6. Wildfire Preparedness Plan ...... 32 7. Grazing Plan...... 32 8. Fiscal Statement ...... 34 Appendix 9. Monitoring ...... 35 Appendix 1 Wildlife Survey Appendix 2 Resolution

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Cerro San Luis Natural Reserve Conservation Plan

Executive Summary The “M” has been determined to be of historic or cultural significance to

the community by the City’s Cultural Cerro San Luis Natural Reserve Heritage Committee. (CSLNR) is a 118 acre area located within the City of San Luis Obispo Certain areas, particularly the adjacent to U. S. Highway 101. The eucalyptus groves, represent a Reserve consists of several habitat higher fire hazard and would benefit types, including grassland, coastal from abatement efforts. There are scrub, oak woodland, and several also areas of high resource value, occurrences of exotic plants such as which warrant protective measures. eucalyptus, cypress, pepper tree, and Mission cactus. The terrain The property has historically been ranges from gently sloping to quite used for livestock grazing. steep.

The Conservation Plan addresses CSLNR contains several significant these issues by calling for: sensitive species or features, including several spring and wetland • Retention of the “M”, provision of areas, the Mission cactus patches a properly graded and aligned (which form excellent protective trail to it, and closure of the cover for many species), and small existing unauthorized trails, which areas of oak woodland. Several are causing erosion problems. species of concern, including the

San Diego desert wood rat, • Elimination of certain other loggerhead shrike, and western redundant or duplicative trails. skink, have been observed in the

Reserve. However, no listed • Continued use of livestock threatened or endangered species grazing on a have been reported from the controlled basis. Reserve.

• Fencing and Management issues or enhancement of concerns associated with several wetland CSLNR: CSLNR is heavily areas within the used for recreation, especially Reserve. by mountain biking enthusiasts. It also has a stronger • Undertaking of fuel management “flavor” of historical use than most of in the eucalyptus plantation and the City’s open space lands. other appropriate areas. Features contributing to this “flavor” include the “M” on the hillside facing • Control of the continued spread the downtown area; the old lemon of exotic species. grove and cypress plantation, marking an old home site; a • Allowance for other interested eucalyptus plantation; the large parties to restore the lemon patches of Mission cactus; and the grove. scattered individuals of pepper tree.

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end of Marsh Street and is accessed 1. Introduction from public parking along Fernandez Road, which intersects with the Cerro San Luis is one of the nine onramp to State Highway 101 South. named volcanic peaks, or morros, State Highway 101 separates the that form a craggy ridge that extends Reserve from urbanized areas of between the cities of Morro Bay and central San Luis Obispo and the San Luis Obispo, dividing the Los edge of the southbound lanes of the Osos and Chorro Creek valleys. The highway constitutes much of its morros run in a southeasterly eastern border. The northern direction from on the section of the eastern Reserve coast to , at the boundary is bordered by developed southeastern corporate boundary of residential neighborhoods. The the City of San Luis Obispo. Cerro steep boulder strewn upper slopes of San Luis, situated between Islay Hill Cerro San Luis border the Reserve and , is the eighth to the west and privately owned named morro from the coast. The ranchland occupies the moderate peak looms prominently over the City slopes of the peak that lie of San Luis Obispo and is a central immediately to the north and south. feature of the City’s viewshed. The Cerro San Luis Natural Reserve The topography of the property is (CSLNR) was created through the generally moderate to steeply acquisition of two parcels of land on sloping and elevations within the CSLNR boundaries range from the eastern slope of the peak totaling around 190 feet along the Highway 118 acres. The first acquisition was 101 easement to nearly 920 feet a gift of 43 acres deeded to the City along the western boundary. by Edison and Francis French in Currently, recreational activities October 1980. The donated land is constitute the predominant land use located near the lemon grove in the within the CSLNR. Recreational northern part of the Reserve. The users access the more than two City purchased the remaining 75 miles of authorized trails within the acres of land within the Cerro San Reserve from the trailhead off Luis Natural Reserve from the Maino Fernandez Road. The main trail through the CSLNR is named Lemon Family in 1997. The peak itself is Grove Loop because of the grove of currently in the ownership of the old lemon trees located on a plateau Madonna family, and as such it is below the white “M” on the hillside. often referred to as ‘Madonna Common recreational activities Mountain’. within the Reserve include hiking, jogging, and mountain biking. The CSLNR encompasses approximately 118 acres of wildlife The CSLNR was used historically as habitat situated on the lower and rangeland, thus cattle and horses middle slopes of the peak (Fig. 1). are periodically present. The site is adjacent to the southern

2 FIGURE 1 CONSERVATION PLAN CERRO SAN LUIS NATURAL RESERVE

Regional Setting of Cerro

San Luis Natural Reserve PAGE 3 Cerro San Luis Natural Reserve Conservation Plan

• The old lemon grove shows up 1.1 History prominently in old photos of the The Cerro San Luis Natural Reserve mountain: some photos also actually has a strong historical theme show a gazebo which was once to it. This has been most recently at that location. Most of the demonstrated by the unanimous lemons are dead, and many have finding of the City’s Cultural Heritage been overtaken by oaks which Committee in September 2004 that have clearly volunteered in what the M is of historically and culturally was once the lemon grove; significant, and that the draft however, a few lemon trees Conservation remain to provide a reminder of Plan for the this period of history of the site; Cerro San Luis Obispo Natural • In 1922 the City Council of the Reserve include City of San Luis Obispo approved its retention. It a subdivision on what is now the is a piece of Charles A. and May Maino Open property that Space. This subdivision was came very close to being largely never built but it allowed for the developed with residences, but did creation of some 294 lots on the not for some reason. The hand of lower slopes of Cerro San Luis mankind is evident in many areas of Obispo. Had the subdivision the site. For example: been developed, this entire area of the City would have had a very • Old fence lines marking some of different history and appearance; the numerous lots that once existed and may have been • At least two significant roadways, separately utilized many years one of them partially paved, were ago can still be found in many constructed in what is now the places, particularly on the lower Reserve. These roads both still slopes of the Reserve; exist and now serve as both maintenance roads and • Various plantations of exotic recreational trails. The northern species, including Mission road has a cistern system cactus, eucalyptus, Peruvian associated with it in one location. pepper tree, and Monterey cypress dominate certain parts of • In 1965, the last graduating class the Reserve. Dr. Robert F. of Mission High School built the Hoover, author of “Vascular “M” (for Mission High) on what Plants of San Luis Obispo was at that time the private County” (1970) was particularly property of the French family. impressed with the Peruvian This was a significant pepper tree, which for some undertaking for a group of reason has become well students, hauling rebar and established on Cerro San Luis cement up the steep hillside to Obispo, and forms almost a create the structure. It has savanna in some areas; served as a community landmark

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ever since. The property, property. As part of the transaction, generally referred to as the the Maino family donated a Lemon Grove Open Space, was conservation easement covering the dedicated to the City of San Luis property to the Land Conservancy of Obispo by the French family in San Luis Obispo County. That 1973. easement restricts the property to open space uses in perpetuity, These features are old and have specifically prohibiting park generally been “softened” by time improvements such as tennis courts, and the recovery of natural ball fields, etc., or buildings such as vegetation. However, the strong park department offices. The undercurrent of human use in recent easement specifically gives the Land times creates a certain “flavor” to the Conservancy the authority to enjoin Reserve which is not duplicated in the City from undertaking such other units of the City of San Luis improvements. Obispo’s open space system. As a result, the Conservation Plan puts a high value on this “flavor” and aims 1.4 Access to keep it wherever possible. Cerro San Luis Natural Reserve is primarily accessed by a public road, known as Fernandez Road, which is 1.2 Background located just to the west of U. S. The property now referred to as Highway 101. Fernandez Road itself Cerro San Luis Natural Reserve was is accessed from Marsh Street acquired in two units: the first unit of 43 acres was acquired by dedication where it crosses under Highway 101 as part of the approval of a and just before the point where residential development project Marsh Street becomes an on- and proposed by the French family in the off-ramp to the highway for 1970s at the end of Hill Street. The southbound traffic. dedication area covered 43 acres including the “Lemon Grove”, an A second access reaches the site area of an old lemon orchard and from a common driveway serving springs, and the surrounding area. three private residences at 663, 665, In 1997 the City purchased an and 667 Hill Street. Due to lack of additional 75 acres from the Maino on-street parking, and a route not family, which brought the Reserve to conducive to public use, this access its current total area of 118 acres. The two units are individually known is used exclusively for maintenance. as the “Lemon Grove Open Space”, and the “Charles A. and May Maino Open Space”.

1.3 Legal Considerations The purchase of the Maino Open Space was what is referred to as a “bargain sale”; that is, a sale at less than the fair market value of the

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from low to very high. Because of the clay content and low permeability 2 Inventory of these soils, surface runoff is rapid and the hazard of water erosion is 2.1 Physical Features (Fig. 2) moderate to high. Areas of Los Area – 118 acres Osos-Diablo complex soils support Miles of trails – 2.28 miles all of the dominant vegetative Miles of creeks and seeps – 0.84 communities observed in the miles Reserve. Salinas silty clay loam, (2 Access points – One official access to 9 percent slopes) is present in a from parking lot at Fernandez Road narrow strip of the CSLNR along the Parking – Off street parking for 10 Highway 101 easement. This soil vehicles at Fernandez Road type is found on alluvial fans and plains. It is very deep and well 2.2 Soils drained, and permeability is Complexes of four soil series moderately slow, so available water (Diablo, Lodo, Los Osos and capacity is high or very high. Salinas) are listed on U.S. Surface runoff is relatively slow so Department of Agriculture (USDA) the hazard of water erosion is slight soils survey maps as being present to moderate. In the CSLNR, areas within the CSLNR boundaries (Fig. of Salinas silty clay loam support 3). On the upper slopes of the grassland habitat, cacti, and various Reserve, above an elevation of introduced trees. approximately 600 feet, soils are listed as Gazos-Lodo clay loam, 30 to 50 percent slopes. These soils are shallow to moderately deep and well drained to excessively drained. They have a very low or low available water capacity and a high water erosion hazard. This soil type primarily supports coastal scrub vegetation within the CSLNR, however, coast live oak woodland is also present in areas. The middle and lower slopes of the open space area are composed of Los Osos- Complexes of four soil series Diablo complex soils (9 to 15 percent (Diablo, Lodo, Los Osos and slopes, 15 to 30 percent slopes, and Salinas) are listed on U.S. 30 to 50 percent slopes). These Department of Agriculture soils soils are well drained and generally survey maps as being present deeper than Gazos-Lodo soils. The within the CSLNR boundaries. available water capacity of Los Osos-Diablo complex soils ranges

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FIGURE 2 CONSERVATION PLAN FIGURE 2 CERRO SAN LUIS NATURAL RESERVE

Physic al Fe atures of the C erro

San Luis Natural Reserve PAGE 7

FIGURE 3 CONSERVATION PLAN CERRO SAN LUIS NATURAL RESERVE

Cerro San Luis Natural Reserve

Soil Types PAGE 8 Cerro San Luis Natural Reserve Conservation Plan

vegetated with coast live oak woodland. The remainder of the site 2.3 Cultural Resources consists of vegetation growing Two archeological sites are located beneath the canopy of introduced on the Cerro San Luis Obispo trees or in areas occupied by a plant Natural Reserve ranging in age from community dominated by the recent historic to possibly prehistoric. introduced cactus (5.5 and 4.8 A report detailing the specifics of percent, respectively). The each site and its location has been composition and abundance of prepared (Singer, 2004), a copy of which is available from the City of dominant species within each San Luis Obispo by written request. community is variable.

2.4 Natural Resources 2.4.1 Grassland Habitat Grassland habitat is present on the Three broadly defined native middle and lower slopes of Cerro vegetative communities are the San Luis, occupying a combined dominant habitat types on Cerro San area of approximately 76 acres Luis Natural Reserve. These include within the Reserve boundaries (Fig. coast live oak woodland, coastal scrub, and grassland communities. 4). The plant assemblage within Two plant communities dominated grassland areas is dominated by by introduced plant species are also introduced annual grasses and forbs, prominent. These include areas but includes a mixture of native supporting Opuntia scrub habitat, a grasses and herbs. Generally, the variation of the coastal scrub composition of plant species found in community that is dominated by the grassland habitat within the CSLNR introduced mission-fig cactus is typical of sites that have sustained (Opuntia ficus-indica), and woodland years of use as rangeland for cattle. habitat comprised largely of Plant species commonly introduced trees such as blue gum encountered in grassland habitat on (Eucalyptus globulus), Monterey the site include: cypress (Cupressus macrocarpa), • Foxtail barley (Hordeum sp.) and Peruvian pepper (Schinus • Ryegrass (Lolium sp.) molle). Generally the southern half • Wild oats (Avena fatua) of the CSLNR, on the lower east- • Ripgut (Bromus diandrus) facing slopes is dominated by • Purple needlegrass (Nasella grassland habitat. The northern half pulchra) of the CSLNR is vegetated with a mosaic of grassland, coastal scrub, Two archeological sites are located oak woodland, and introduced trees. on the Cerro San Luis Obispo Natural Grassland habitat occupies nearly Reserve ranging in age from recent two thirds of the site (64 percent). historic to possibly prehistoric. Roughly sixteen percent of the

CSLNR supports a varying coastal scrub community and nine percent is

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The abundance of each of these • sagebrush dominants varies with elevation. (Artemisia californica) California sagebrush is the primary • Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) component of the coastal scrub • Teasel (Dipsacus sativus) community on the lower slopes of • Knotted dock (Rumex the open space area and occurs in conglomeratus) nearly monotypic stands within • Dandelion (Taraxacum expanses of grassland habitat. On officionale) the middle slopes of the open space • Mustard (Hirschfeldia incana) area coastal scrub habitat includes • Saw-toothed goldenbush (Hazardia squarrosa) an increasing abundance of • Turkey mullien (Eremocarpus coyote bush and black sage, setigerus) however California sage remains the dominant Although surveys were conducted at species. The composition of a time of year when native the coastal scrub community wildflowers are not in bloom and on the steep, densely often difficult to detect, three vegetated upper slopes of common species were noted in Cerro San Luis is distinctly different grassland areas from the lower and middle slopes, during surveys. with black sage replacing California These included the sagebrush as the dominant species. California poppy As elevation and slope increase, (Eschscholzia California sagebrush and coyote californica), morning bush become increasingly minor glory (Calystegia macrostegia), and components of the community. The tarweed (Hemizonia fasciculata). dense, black sage-dominated Grassland areas provide habitat for coastal scrub community vegetating burrowing mammals, ground- the upper slopes of the CSLNR nesting/foraging birds, various includes chamise (Adenostoma reptiles, and cursorial species such fasciculatum), deerweed (Lotus as the black-tailed jackrabbit (Lepus junceus), and monkeyflower californicus). Grassland areas also (Mimulus spp.). Plant species offer important foraging habitat for a commonly noted within coastal scrub variety of hawks and owls. habitat during the surveys include:

2.4.2 Coastal Scrub Habitat • California sagebrush Coastal scrub habitat occupies a (Artemisia californica) little over 19 acres within the CSLNR • Black sage (Salvia mellifera) (Fig. 4). Dominant species within • Coyote bush (Baccharis this community include California pilularis) sagebrush (Artemisia californica), • Chamise (Adenostoma black sage (Salvia mellifera), and fasciculatum) coyote bush (Baccharis pilularis). • Toyon (Heteromeles arbutifolia)

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• Coast live oak (Quercus includes many large, mature oaks agrifolia) that grow together to form a closed • Deerweed (Lotus junceus) canopy forest. Understory • Poison oak (Toxicodendron vegetation is relatively sparse diversilobum) beneath the canopy because of the • Monkeyflower (Mimulus sp.) low light, thick carpet of oak leaf • Blue elderberry (Sambucus litter, and steep, thin soils. Coast mexicana) live oak woodland also occupies • Wild buckwheat (Eriogonum areas along two of the larger sp.) drainage gullies within the CSLNR • Morning glory (Calystegia macrostegia) boundaries. These woodland areas • Saw-toothed goldenbush are relatively open and typically (Hazardia squarrosa) support undergrowth comprised of • Wild rose (Rosa californica) plant species from surrounding coastal scrub habitat. Common The coastal species identified within coast live scrub plant oak woodland include: community serves a • Coast live oak (Quercus number of agrifolia) important • Poison oak (Toxicodendron habitat diversilobum) functions for wildlife inhabiting the • Coffeeberry (Rhamnus californica) CSLNR. The dense low-growing • Monkeyflower (Mimulus spp.) shrubs and trees provide cover for • Mugwort (Artemisia predator avoidance, sites for nesting, douglasiana) and a source of food for browsing • Hummingbird sage (Salvia mammals and seed-eating birds. In spathacea) addition to seeds, a variety of • Blackberry (Rubus ursinus) flowering plants provide a nectar • Bracken fern (Pteridium source for species like the Anna’s aquilinum) hummingbird. Coast live oak woodlands provide 2.4.3 Coast Live Oak important nesting, roosting, and Woodland Habitat foraging habitat for a great number The boundaries of the CSLNR of bird species including titmice, encompass approximately 10.5 woodpeckers, wrens, warblers, and acres of coast live oak woodland various raptors. Habitat features habitat (Fig. 4). The primary stand of such as logs and rocks that are coast live oak woodland is located situated in the leaf litter beneath on the northern exposure of Cerro closed canopy oak woodlands offer San Luis, adjacent to the northwest shelter and a rich foraging property corner. This stand occupies environment for small mammals, steep, boulder-strewn slopes and reptiles, and amphibians.

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Closed canopy oak woodlands also central part of offer larger crepuscular and the Reserve nocturnal mammals such as deer, (Fig. 4). Mission fox, coyote, raccoons, and skunks fig cacti form areas for concealment during dense, daylight hours. impenetrable stands in this area, occupying east-facing slopes and the Two of the spring/seep areas within sides of drainage gullies. the CSLNR originate in coast live oak woodland habitat. In addition to The dominant plant species within oaks, the canopy trees in this area Opuntia scrub habitat generally include western sycamore (Platanus include: racemosa), black cottonwood (Populus balsamifera), and • Indian-fig cactus (Opuntia introduced species such as the ficus-indica) Monterey cypress and blue gum. • California sagebrush Understory vegetation in the vicinity (Artemisia californica) • Coyote bush (Baccharis of the seeps is more diverse than in pilularis) other oak woodland areas and • Poison oak (Toxicodendron includes a mixture of native and diversilobum) introduced shrubs, trees, and • Monkeyflower (Mimulus spp.) herbaceous species. Vegetation • Black sage (Salvia mellifera) unique to seep areas (in coast live • Toyon (Heteromeles oak woodland and grassland habitat) arbutifolia) included umbrella sedge (Cyperus • Coast live oak (Quercus eragrostis), cattails (Typha latifolia), agrifolia) watercress (Rorippa nasturtium- • Coffeeberry (Rhamnus aquaticum), spikerush (Eleocharis californica) macrostachya), and saltgrass (Distichlis spicata). 2.4.5 Introduced Trees Historical use of the northern and 2.4.4 Opuntia Scrub Habitat eastern slopes of Cerro San Luis has Opuntia scrub habitat is a variant of resulted in the introduction and the coastal scrub community and establishment of several non-native includes many of the same plant tree species. These introduced trees species. The obvious difference are present on approximately 6.5 between the two communities is that acres of the CSLNR, occurring in the dominant species in Opuntia forested stands (blue gum), scrub is the introduced mission fig, windbreaks (Monterey cypress), and or Indian-fig, cactus (Opuntia ficus- in small, scattered patches within indica). Opuntia scrub habitat grassland habitat (Peruvian pepper). occupies 5.7 acres of the CSLNR Peruvian pepper trees are also and is most extensively established present within coastal scrub and in prominent patches located in the Opuntia scrub habitat. As mentioned

12 Cerro San Luis Natural Reserve Conservation Plan earlier, an old grove of lemon trees is visitors could rapidly result in the also present within the Reserve. degradation of native plant communities. Springs and seep Generally, the allelopathic properties areas in the CSLNR can also of litter from blue gum and Monterey be adversely impacted from use by cypress trees tends to inhibit the hikers, mountain bikers, and grazing growth of understory vegetation and cattle and should be avoided during limit habitat value for many wildlife the routing of formal trails. species. Stands of introduced blue gum and Monterey cypress trees do A review of the California however offer roosting and nesting Natural Diversity Database habitat for a variety of bird species, (CNDDB) shows a roost including raptors and owls. Deer site for monarch butterflies and small mammals are also likely to located immediately south utilize refuge provided by stands of of the CSLNR. Roost sites introduced trees. The introduced for over-wintering monarch tree species identified within the butterflies are often Reserve include: located within groves of introduced blue gum and Monterey • Blue gum (Eucalyptus cypress trees such as those globulus) occurring within the CSLNR. The • Monterey cypress (Cupressus grove of blue gum trees in the north- macrocarpa) central part of the Reserve offers • Peruvian pepper (Schinus habitat features often associated molle) with monarch butterfly roost sites • Lemon (Citrus limon) including a nearby water source and 2.5 Sensitive Habitats areas protected from wind. Locations within the CSLNR that Generally, the wildlife species support special status species or observed or detected during surveys those areas vulnerable to of the CSLNR were relatively degradation from sustained use are common inhabitants of coastal shown in Fig. 5. Plant communities scrub, coast live oak woodland, and occupying the lower slopes of the grassland habitats. One special Reserve support numerous status species, the San Diego desert introduced plant species and are not woodrat (Neotoma lepida generally considered sensitive intermedia), was encountered within habitat. However, coastal scrub and the Reserve boundaries. The San coast live oak woodland Diego desert woodrat is a federal communities on the steep upper and state species of special concern. slopes of the Reserve appear to be relatively intact. The steepness of the slopes and thin soils make these areas extremely susceptible to erosion and use of these areas by

13 FIGURE 4 CONSERVATION PLAN FIGURE 4 CERRO SAN LUIS NATURAL RESERVE

Cerro San Luis Natural Reserve

Habitat Types PAGE 14 ‘M’

FIGURE 5 CONSERVATION PLAN FIGURE 5 CERRO SAN LUIS NATURAL RESERVE

Location of Sensitive Species on

Cerro San Luis Natural Reserve PAGE 15 Cerro San Luis Natural Reserve Conservation Plan

Several species of local concern encountered in the Reserve included were encountered during wildlife the northern mockingbird (Mimus surveys, including the western skink polyglottis), Anna’s hummingbird (Eumeces skiltonianus), yellow- (Calypte anna), western scrub jay rumped warbler (Dendroica (Aphelocoma californica), California coronata), rufous-crowned sparrow towhee (Pipilo crissalis), and (Aimophila ruficeps), and monarch morning dove (Zenaida macroura). butterfly (Danaus plexippus). Turkey vultures (Cathartes aura) and red-tailed hawks (Buteo jamaicensis) A summary of the wildlife species were frequently visible in the sky identified within the CSLNR during above the CSLNR during daytime this survey is presented in the surveys. Sizable flocks of American following section. General crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos) and information relative to their observed foraging cliff swallows (Petrochelidon distribution is included in the pyrrhonota) were also observed on summary. occasion in the sky above the Reserve. Three owl species were 2.6 Birds detected during surveys from either The CSLNR offers a mixture of direct observation during nighttime habitats that support a varied surveys or the identification of pellets assemblage of bird species. A total found at the base of trees and fence of 46 bird species was identified posts. Table 1 presents a list of the during the CSLNR wildlife survey birds identified during the surveys. A including two local species of more extensive seasonal sampling concern, the yellow rumped warbler effort would undoubtedly detect (Dendroica coronata) and the rufous- additional resident and migratory bird crowned sparrow (Aimophila species. ruficeps). Additionally, two species of wrens, the Bewick’s wren (Thryomanes bewickii) and the house wren (Troglodytes aedon), various sparrows, including the lark sparrow (Chondestes grammacus), golden-crowned sparrow (Zonotrichia atricapilla), white- crowned sparrow (Zonotricha leucophrys), chipping sparrow (Spizella passerina), and a second warbler species, the Townsend’s Western Scrub Jay warbler (Dendroica townsendi) were identified during surveys. The bird species most commonly

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Birds were observed most abundantly from sampling points in open grasslands and along the edges of dense coastal scrub and

Opuntia scrub habitat. Twenty-two bird species were identified in grassland habitat and twenty bird species were identified in both coastal scrub and Opuntia scrub habitats.

These observations included birds flying over sampling points during surveys. The most diverse aggregation of bird species encountered occurred in the large centrally located patch of Opuntia scrub. The added habitat value provided by the four oak trees situated inside the upper margin of this patch are likely to account for this increased diversity. Fifteen bird species were identified

in oak woodland habitat. Fifteen bird species were identified in oak woodland habitat, however, because of the difficult terrain in some areas and reduced visibility through the oak canopy, birds that were observed but were not actively calling could not always be positively identified. The least number of bird species (12) was observed in habitat provided by introduced trees.

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Table 1. List of birds identified during wildlife surveys of the Cerro San Luis Natural Reserve showing habitats in which the species were observed.

Common Name/ Opuntia Coastal Live Oak Introduced Grassland Scientific Name Scrub Scrub Woodland Trees Rufous-crowned sparrow √ Aimophila ruficeps Red-winged blackbird √ √ Agelaius phoeniceus Western scrub jay Aphelocoma √ √ √ √ √ californica plain (oak) titmouse Baeolophus √ inornatus Great horned owl √ Bubo virginianus Red-tailed hawk √ √ √ √ √ Buteo jamaicensis Red-shouldered hawk √ √ Buteo lineatus California quail √ √ Callipepla californica Anna’s hummingbird √ √ √ √ Calypte anna Lesser goldfinch √ Carduelis psaltria House finch Carpodacus √ mexicanus Turkey vulture √ √ √ √ √ Cathartes aura Swaison’s thrush √ Catharus ustulatus Wrentit √ Chamaea fasciata Lark sparrow Chondestes √ grammacus Northern flicker √ √ √ Colaptes auratus Rock dove (pigeon) √ Columba livia

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American crow Corvus √ √ brachyrhynchos Yellow-rumped warbler √ Dendroica coronata Townsend’s warbler √ Dendroica townsendi Brewer’s blackbird Euphagus √ cyanocephalus American kestrel √ Falco sparverius Dark-eyed junco √ √ √ Junco hyemalis Northern mockingbird √ √ √ Mimus polyglottis Western screech owl √ Otus kennicottii House sparrow √ √ Passer domesticus Cliff swallow Petrochelidon √ √ pyrrhonota California towhee √ √ √ Pipilo crissalis Spotted towhee √ Pipilo maculatus Blue-gray gnatcatcher √ Polioptila caerulea Nutall’s woodpecker √ Picoides nuttallii Bushtit √ √ Psaltriparus minimus Ruby-crowned kinglet √ √ √ Regulus calendula Black phoebe √ √ Sayornis nigricans Say’s phoebe √ Sayornis saya Western bluebird √ √ Sialia mexicana Chipping sparrow √ √ Spizella passerina Western meadowlark √ Sturnella neglecta European starling √ Sturnus vulgaris

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California thrasher Toxostoma √ √ redivivum Bewick’s wren √ √ Thryomanes bewickii House wren √ Troglodytes aedon Barn owl √ Tyto alba Mourning dove √ √ √ √ Zenaida macroura Golden-crowned sparrow √ √ Zonotrichia atricapilla White-crowned sparrow Zonotrichia √ √ √ leucophrys

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was made, the sub-species of dusky- footed woodrat encountered in the 2.7 Mammals CSLNR is not believed to be the A total of seventeen mammal Monterey dusky footed woodrat species was observed or detected because Cerro San Luis is located during the wildlife surveys of the several miles south of the described CSLNR including one federal and range of the sub-species. Bats state species of special concern, the (Order Chiroptera) were observed San Diego desert woodrat. foraging during the early evening in Additionally, a shrew, which is a grassland habitat and open areas mammal species of local concern, near the lemon grove, however, their was encountered beneath debris taxa could not be determined so they near the CSLNR parking lot. The are not listed in Table 2. species of shrew could not be positively identified during the brief encounter, however, range and life history information suggest that it was probably an ornate shrew (Sorex ornatus). A list of mammals identified during the CSLNR wildlife surveys is presented in Table 2.

Five rodent species were identified during small mammal trapping efforts and three additional rodent species were observed during the course of wildlife surveys. Woodrat nests were encountered in Opuntia scrub, coastal scrub, oak woodland habitat, A total of seventeen mammal and areas beneath introduced trees. species was observed or detected Two species of woodrat, the dusky- during the wildlife surveys of the footed woodrat (Neotoma fuscipes CSLNR including one federal and macrotis) and the San Diego desert state species of special concern, woodrat, were identified in the CSLNR during small mammal the San Diego desert woodrat. trapping. The San Diego desert woodrat is one of two special status woodrat sub-species that occur in San Luis Obispo County. The second is the Monterey dusky-footed woodrat (Neotoma fuscipes luciana) and both are federal and state species of special concern. Although no positive identification

20 Cerro San Luis Natural Reserve Conservation Plan

Table 2. List of mammals identified during wildlife surveys of the Cerro San Luis Natural Reserve showing habitats in which the species were observed or detected. Common Name/ Opuntia Coastal Live Oak Introduced Grassland Scientific Name Scrub Scrub Woodland Trees Coyote √ √ √ Canis latrans Opossum √ Didelphis marsupialis Blacktail jackrabbit √ Lepus californicus California meadow mouse √ Microtus californicus Dusky-footed woodrat Neotoma fuscipes √ √ √ macrotis San Diego desert woodrat Neotoma lepida √ intermedia Mule deer √ √ √ √ Odocoileus herionus Brush mouse √ Peromyscus boylei California mouse √ Peromyscus californicus Deer mouse Peromyscus √ √ √ √ √ maniculatus Raccoon √ Procyon lotor California ground squirrel √ √ Spermophilus beecheyi Desert cottontail √ Sylvilagus auduboni Brush rabbit √ √ Sylvilagus bachmani Shrew √ Sorex sp. Botta’s pocket gopher √ √ Thomomys bottae Gray fox Urocyon √ √ cinereoargenteus

21 Cerro San Luis Natural Reserve Conservation Plan

Based on observations made during 2.8 Reptiles surveys of the CSLNR, grassland Five reptile species were habitat appeared to support the encountered during the CSLNR greatest number of mammal species. wildlife surveys including one Mammals identified as utilizing species of local concern, the western grassland habitat include rodents skink (Eumeces skiltonianus) (Table that burrow beneath the ground, 3). A single western skink was small mammals (rodents, rabbits, encountered beneath a rock located shrews) that forage in grasslands but at the edge of oak woodland habitat live in refugia provided by rock on a north-facing slope. The outcrops or patches of Opuntia and western fence lizard (Sceloporus coastal scrub vegetation, and larger occidentalis) was the most mammals that forage or hunt in commonly encountered reptile grasslands. The California ground species in the CSLNR and was squirrel and Botta’s pocket gopher present in all of the surveyed habitat were the most common mammals in types. Although no live California grassland areas, and the dusky- king snakes were encountered footed woodrat and deer mouse during surveys, a single shed skin were most abundant in patches of (banded pattern) found in grassland scrub vegetation. The deer mouse habitat indicated that the species is was present in all of the surveyed present in the Reserve. habitat types. Larger mammals such as the gray fox, mule deer, raccoon, opossum, and coyote did not appear to be common in the CSLNR and were detected from occasional remains (opossum and gray fox), scat (coyote, raccoon), visual observations (mule deer), and tracks (mule deer, raccoon). These larger species are likely to remain in oak Western Skink woodland and coastal scrub habitat on the relatively inaccessible upper slopes of Cerro San Luis during the Five reptile species were day and leave their concealed encountered during the CSLNR locations only after sunset to forage in grassland habitat on the lower wildlife surveys including one slopes. Mule deer were the only species of local concern, the large mammal observed during western skink. nighttime surveys.

22 Cerro San Luis Natural Reserve Conservation Plan

Table 3. List of reptiles identified during wildlife surveys of the Cerro San Luis Natural Reserve showing habitats in which the species were observed.

Common Name/ Opuntia Coastal Live Oak Introduced Grassland Scientific Name Scrub Scrub Woodland Trees Southern alligator lizard √ √ √ Elgaria multicarinatus Western skink √ Eumeces skiltonianus California king snake Lampropeltis getulus √ californae Gopher snake √ Pituophis melanoleucus Western fence lizard √ √ √ √ √ Sceloporus occidentalis

23 Cerro San Luis Natural Reserve Conservation Plan

2.9 Amphibians sandy soils around Los Osos and the The CSLNR does not appear to Morro Bay Estuary (Helminthoglypta support an abundance of walkeriana) and the snails occurring amphibians. The Pacific tree frog at inland locations (Helminthoglypta (Hyla regilla) and the black-bellied walkeriana var. morroensis) was slender salamander (Batrachoseps somewhat unsettled and both were nigriventris) were the only two afforded protection under the amphibian species encountered Endangered Species Act (ESA) of during this survey. Pacific tree frogs 1973. were observed in a rock pile located in grassland habitat and in the seep However, based on recent area adjacent to the lemon grove. investigations of distribution and Black-bellied slender salamanders various morphological and were encountered beneath rocks anatomical traits, H. w. var. and logs at the oak woodland- morroensis was found to be grassland interface on the northern sufficiently distinct from the exposure of Cerro San Luis. endangered coastal form (H. walkeriana) to warrant a different 2.10 Invertebrates taxonomic status. This was confirmed as the official USFWS A variety of invertebrates were position on the matter in May 2004. identified during surveys of the CSLNR including one species of In addition to the inland form of the local concern, the monarch butterfly Morro shoulderband snail, the Big (Danaus plexippus). Monarch Sur shoulderband snail butterflies were encountered in a (Helminthoglypta umbilicata), a variety of habitats within the Reserve related but more widely distributed and are likely to utilize nectar from terrestrial snail species, was blue gum trees and other flowering abundantly encountered in the plants on the site. Although no large CSLNR. Selected invertebrate aggregations of monarch butterflies species noted during the wildlife were observed during surveys, areas surveys are listed in Table 4. within the grove appeared to offer conditions suitable for roosting.

The inland form of the federally endangered Morro shoulderband snail (Helminthoglypta walkeriana var. morroensis) was also found at a number of locations within the CSLNR. Until recently, the taxonomic difference between Morro shoulderband snails occurring in

24 Cerro San Luis Natural Reserve Conservation Plan

Table 4. List of invertebrate species noted during wildlife surveys of the Cerro San Luis Natural Reserve showing habitats in which the species were observed.

Common Name/ Opuntia Coastal Live Oak Introduced Grassland Scientific Name Scrub Scrub Woodland Trees Honey bee √ √ √ Apis mellifera Bumble bee √ √ Bombus sp. Monarch butterfly √ √ √ √ √ Danus plexippus Stink beetle √ Eleodes sp. Field cricket √ Gryllus pennsylvanicus European garden snail √ Helix aspersa Big Sur shoulderband snail Helminthoglypta √ √ √ √ umbilicata Morro shoulderband snail Helminthoglypta √ √ √ walkeriana var. morroensis Ladybird beetle √ √ √ Hippodamia convergens Black widow spider √ Latrodectus mactans Forest spider wasp √ Priocnemis oregona Scorpion √ Order Scorpionida Jerusalem cricket √ Stenoplematus fuscus

A wide variety of other invertebrates were present within the CSLNR that were not specifically identified in Table 4. These included various butterflies, wasps, beetles, ticks, flies, centipedes, mosquitoes, spiders, and ants.

25 Cerro San Luis Natural Reserve Conservation Plan

3.4 To conserve and protect native plant and animal 3 Goals & species and enhance their habitats in order to maintain Recommendations viable wildlife populations within balanced ecosystems. The City document “Conservation Guidelines for Open Space Lands of Management goals 3.1-3.4 will be the City of San Luis Obispo” achieved by designation of land use describes management guidelines categories within the CSLNR as and policies designed to achieve the described in the document stated goals of the City’s Open “Conservation Guidelines for Open Space Element (i.e., OS1.1.1- Space Lands of the City of San Luis OS1.1.4). Management goals Obispo”. Designation of land use relevant to the CSLNR are: categories for the CSLNR is shown on the system map in Figure 6. 3.1 To conserve, enhance and restore natural plant Public Comment communities; to protect The Conservation Plan aims to sensitive and endangered accommodate the desires and plant species and their wishes of the general public for habitats; and maintain CSLNR, as well as addressing the biodiversity of native plants goals of the City’s Open Space and animals. element. The specific 3.2 To provide the public with a recommendations detailed below are safe and pleasing natural the result of input from members of environment in which to the public collected during pursue passive recreational workshops, and suggestions from activities, while maintaining the City Planning Commission and the integrity of the resource Parks and Recreation Commission. and minimizing the impact on the wildlife and habitats 3.5 Consider alternatives to represented. burning of vegetation as a 3.3 To preserve and restore method of fuel management. creeks, wetlands and 3.6 Maintenance of cactus stand ephemeral seeps or springs in as suitable habitat for the a natural state, and provide Morro Shoulderband Snail. suitable habitat to all native 3.7 Include educational signage aquatic and riparian species. on the CSLNR. To minimize the impacts of 3.8 Remove “M” and rehabilitate harmful activities such as the the site – This is an important release of pollutants, while viewshed to those driving in to maintaining the creek system town on HWY 101. as a means of conveying 3.9 The City should participate in storm water within urban the Morros Trail Project areas.

26 Cerro San Luis Natural Reserve Conservation Plan

Look at Fernandez Rd legal issues “Conservation Guidelines for Open and relationships to formal Space Lands of the City of San Luis boundaries Obispo”. The conservation plan 3.10 Improve the Fernandez Rd also describes a series of tasks that parking area – gravel, fencing, will be implemented in order to trees etc. achieve the recommendations made 3.11 Interpretation/Restoration of by the general public. lemon grove. 3.12 Divert trespassers entering Needs Analysis the Reserve from the The following tasks will be Mountain View/Hill Street undertaken over the next 5 to 7 year areas. cycle to accomplish the stated City 3.13 Provide information in the goals and recommendations from form of trail guides showing the general public identified in official access routes to Section 3. discourage trespassing. 3.14 Evaluate the potential for a To achieve goals 3.1-3.4 the CSLNR landslide event in the vicinity shall be managed in accordance with of the Lemon Grove. the City adopted policies described 3.15 A grazing plan should be in “Conservation Guidelines for Open designed that encourages Space Lands of the City of San Luis biodiversity Obispo”. 3.16 Consider developing spring for wildlife The reader is referred to this 3.17 Collaborate with CalTrans to document for specific details of how plant screening trees along these policies relate to the land use the margin with HWY 101. categories designated for the 3.18 Habitat area should be CSLNR on the system map (Fig. 6); maximized and for an explanation of how 3.19 Develop a monitoring program policies are identified in the following for the open space discussion. incorporating the concept of Limits of Acceptable Change Many of the policies described in (LAC’s). “Conservation Guidelines for Open Space Lands of the City of San Luis Obispo” are designed to be 4 Conservation Plan protective of City-owned resources The Conservation Plan describes by restricting activities that may have how the City intends to manage a negative impact (e.g. prohibition of CSLNR to fulfill adopted City goals trail construction in ‘Habitat’ areas and the recommendations of the [HA12]). community for the property. The land use designations proposed for the Providing such limitations are CSLNR are shown on the system observed, implementation of map (Fig. 6). The general day-to- restrictions is primarily a passive day management of these areas will affair requiring no active be in accordance with direction in the management or changes in City-adopted document prevailing conditions or activities.

27 ‘M’

Restorative

FIGURE 6 CONSERVATION PLAN FIGURE 6 CERRO SAN LUIS NATURAL RESERVE

Land Use Designations of the

Cerro San Luis Natural Reserve PAGE 28 Cerro San Luis Natural Reserve Conservation Plan

However, other recommendations do and official access points to the require active management and will Reserve (3.15). result in changes in management practices or altered resource 4.6 The Cultural Heritage conditions. These are: Committee has determined that the ‘M’ is historically and (Note: The specific goal or culturally significant to the recommendation identified in Section community. Therefore the Plan 3 that is addressed by the proposed recommends the retention of action is given in parentheses) this structure, provision for its maintenance, and appropriate 4.1 Traditionally CSLNR has been access to it, as detailed below utilized as pasture land for in Items 4.7, 4.8, and 4.9. City cattle and horses. Grazing will staff shall prepare a letter of continue, in accordance with agreement with the Mission the grazing plan described in College Preparatory School for Section 7, as the primary such maintenance that will means of vegetative fuel include agreed upon standards. management (3.6/3.17). 4.7 The steep, erosive ‘bootleg’ 4.2 Educational signage describing trails that have been formed up the unique natural and cultural to the ‘M’ will be closed and characteristics of the reserve rehabilitated. A correctly will be installed at the City constructed gently sloping trail sanctioned access point to the which can be used the access Reserve originating at the ‘M’ will be constructed. This Fernandez Rd (3.8). will minimize the erosive damaged caused by 4.3 The City will cooperate and maintenance activities collaborate as appropriate, with associated with the structure. any public or private agency involved in the development of 4.8 The restorative areas identified the “Morros Trail Project” (3.10). in Fig. 5 include a creek/seep area in the south region of the 4.4 The City will cooperate with any Reserve which has been organization or individual impacted by grazing cattle. interested in restoration of the This will be fenced to exclude lemon grove area of CSLNR; cattle and willow stakes planted however, no City funds will be to restore riparian cover. The dedicated to this cause. In the eroded trail leading up to the absence of an interested party “M” will be eliminated and an the lemon grove will be left to alternative trail at correct grade revert to a natural, untended will be installed. The final state (3.13). restorative area is a seep adjacent to the lemon grove this 4.5 A trail guide will be produced will be covered and modified to which identifies all sanctioned provide a water source for hiking, mountain biking trails wildlife.

29 Cerro San Luis Natural Reserve Conservation Plan

monitoring will also evaluate 4.9 The trail area identified as thinning or removal of pepper ‘Eliminated Trails’ in Fig. 5 will trees up to 12 inches in be decommissioned, and a new diameter, especially in areas section of trail identified as where their growth may ‘Proposed Trails’ will be contribute to fuel loading. constructed at the correct grade to service the ‘M’. 4.11 The City will cooperate with Caltrans to plant trees along the 4.10 CSLNR hosts seven diverse margin of 101 to screen the habitat types (Fig. 4), including freeway from the open space non-native grasslands, (3.19). eucalyptus and cactus stands. The non-natives do have 4.12 Photopoints will be established habitat value, tall eucalypts to monitor the temporal status provide perching sites for of the resource (3.21). hunting raptors and the Morro Shoulderband Snail is only 4.13 Livestock grazing will be found in association with stands permitted at CSLNR, and the of cactus on the site. major part of the open space is Wholesale removal of non- suitable for that purpose. native vegetation may result in Therefore, in accordance with the reduction of native species the “Conservation Guidelines that have adapted to their for Open Space Lands of the presence. With this in mind the City of San Luis Obispo” all City will remove newly forming grazing lands will be cactus stands or eucalypt categorized as ‘Management’ groves that develop outside of areas. In this instance ‘Habitat’ the current range. areas comprise 23% (27.14 acres) of the open space, City staff will especially monitor ‘Management’ areas 69% the generally exotics-free (81.42 acres), ‘Restoration’ coastal scrub community on the areas 7.1% (8.38 acres), and upper elevations of the Reserve ‘Cultural’ areas 0.9% (1.06 for appearance of exotic plant acres). species and will remove such exotics as they are discovered. In Addition…

In addition, eucalypts <6” in 4.14 At its regular meeting on diameter may be removed as September 27, 2004, the City of part of an ongoing fuel San Luis Obispo’s Cultural reduction program on the Heritage Committee determined Reserve. Eucalyptus trees up that the “M” on Cerro San Luis to 12 inches in diameter will be Obispo was historically and evaluated for possible removal culturally significant to the following an initial thinning, and, community, and recommended if considered necessary, will be to the City Council that the removed. General exotic Conservation Plan for Cerro

30 Cerro San Luis Natural Reserve Conservation Plan

San Luis Natural Reserve in Sections 4.7, 4.9, 4.10, and included the retention of that 4.12. feature and the provision of • Produce trail guide for the appropriate access to it. CSLNR. • Develop and install one or more signs informing the 5 Implementation public of the history of the ‘M’; such a sign may be installed Strategy in the City at a location where people may see the ‘M’ as The priority and order in which these well as or instead of a sign at tasks shall be implemented is a location within CSLNR. detailed below. Each task has been • Seek cooperator in designated to staff from the City’s maintenance/restoration of Natural Resources Program (NR), the Lemon Grove. Parks and Recreation Department • Complete a Letter Agreement (PR) or other City staff as specified. Regarding the ‘M’ with Mission College Preparatory School. 5.1 Ongoing Tasks • Seek grant funds for tree General maintenance activities in planting along Highway 101. accordance with the adopted policies described in “Conservation Years 3-4 Guidelines for Open Space Lands of the City of San Luis Obispo” shall be • Continue activities outlined implemented on a regular or ‘as above to completion. needed’ basis throughout the 5-7 years covered by this Conservation Years 5-6 Plan (NP/PR).

5.2 Specific Tasks • Continue activities outlined above to completion.

Years 1-2 As Funds/Opportunities • Implement grazing plan as Become Available outlined in Section 7 to reduce fuel load at the urban/open • Participate in the ‘Morros space interface. Trail’ project. • Install educational signage at • Participate in/encourage third City sanctioned trailhead. party restoration of the lemon • Construct new trail to facilitate grove area. maintenance of ‘M’. • Any agreement for • Start restoration projects maintenance of the ‘M’, the identified in Section 4.8, as trail thereto, elimination and well as maintenance or restoration of the restorative activities identified unauthorized trails thereto, or any agreement concerning

31 Cerro San Luis Natural Reserve Conservation Plan

restoration and maintenance Active firefighting area – areas acting of the Lemon Grove area will as a buffer between the surrounding be presented to the Parks and urban developments and the pristine Recreation Commission for habitat. Active firefighting approval. Any such techniques such as the use of heavy agreement will include machinery and cutting of fuel breaks measurable or observable can be utilized to protect property standards for such from an advancing wildfire. maintenance. These areas have also been 6 Wildfire Preparedness identified because the physical Plan resources and topography are conducive to successful restoration efforts following a wildfire. The City document “Conservation Guidelines for Open Space Lands of Passive (habitat sensitive) the City of San Luis Obispo” firefighting area – areas of important recommends that a Wildfire wildlife habitat, mostly on steep Preparedness Plan be developed for hillsides. These areas are also City open space lands. After somewhat removed from urban consultation with the City’s Fire development. They are particularly Department and CDF, three areas sensitive to aggressive firefighting have been identified that will receive techniques such as the use of heavy specific treatment with respect to machinery. Therefore, wherever fighting wildfires and prescribed practicable, firefighting strategies in burning (Fig. 7). The process of these areas should be limited to low identification of these areas takes impact, habitat friendly methods. into account a number of factors, including: the topography of the land; proximity to urban 7 Grazing Plan developments; vegetation type; and the presence of sensitive species. Livestock grazing will continue to be The areas are: permitted at CSLNR.

Fuel management area – areas The current grazing permittee, adjacent to the urban/wildland Madonna Construction, Inc., has interface that could not be safely generally used CSLNR as part of a burned in a controlled manner. rotational grazing system These areas will require active encompassing the entirety of Cerro pruning, mowing and/or other active San Luis Obispo, which includes management of the vegetation lands owned by the permittee. This (including livestock grazing) to has resulted in an appropriate level reduce fuel loads adjacent to of grazing utilization, and good rest developed properties. This includes periods between grazing periods. It most of the grassland areas of the also results in minimal need for City- Reserve, and especially the owned infrastructure such as fences, eucalyptus plantation on the easterly corrals, water troughs, etc. The boundary near Hill Street. grazing plan therefore calls for such

32 ‘M’

CONSERVATION PLAN FIGURE 7 CERRO SAN LUIS NATURAL RESERVE

Cerro San Luis Natural Reserve

Wildfire Pre paredness Plan PAGE 33 Cerro San Luis Natural Reserve Conservation Plan rotational use to continue. The plan percent cover by the transect will be implemented as follows: measurements.

• The area will be retained by • An exclosure will be existing fencing as two constructed to eliminate pastures, north pasture and livestock access into the south pasture. unnamed creek in the south pasture, and permit • Vegetation management revegetation of that feature objectives for both pastures with willows and other will be to control the amount appropriate vegetation. of residual dry matter (RDM) at the end of the growing • The existing fence at the season to approximately springs and the “Lemon 1,200 pounds per acre. The Grove” area will be improved objectives will also to have an to eliminate livestock access increase in coverage of purple and allow for reestablishment needlegrass and other native of the lemon grove as an bunchgrasses. These historical feature of the site. objectives will be Livestock access to the water accomplished by permitted at the site will be done by rotational livestock grazing restoring flow from the springs throughout the year, but to the existing trough outside avoiding the winter months of the exclosure. Flow to this (December through February trough will be constructed in in the south pasture, such a way as to ensure that December through March in no more than one-half of the the north pasture). flow from the spring goes into Measurements of RDM will be the pipe supplying the trough. accomplished in late May or Also a wildlife ladder or other early June of the year. appropriate structure will be Numbers of livestock will be installed at the trough to based upon NRCS soils ensure wildlife access to the survey data for the area. water in the trough.

• Grazing use will be monitored to ensure that management 8 Fiscal Statement objectives are being met. This will be done through ocular The fiscal impact of the adoption of estimates of standing crop the Cerro San Luis Obispo biomass, and the Conservation Plan is expected to be establishment and monitoring minor. It will consist of maintaining of permanent transects to the patrol and maintenance of the estimate species composition property at basically its existing level, within the pastures. A goal of and the implementation of several the program will be to small-scale capital improvements. maintain native bunchgrasses The latter include: and forbs, measured as a

34 Cerro San Luis Natural Reserve Conservation Plan

• Construction of one new trail management areas are non-native accessing the “M”, above the grasslands most appropriately Lemon Grove area. This trail managed by proper range will be about three-quarters of management techniques. a mile long and would most likely be constructed with volunteer labor;

• Closure and restoration of several existing “bootleg”, or unauthorized trails, currently It is expected that the level of staffing providing access to the M and for the Reserve would not change resulting in erosion problems unless there was a major change and unsightliness; and involving legal access to the top of Cerro San Luis Obispo, which is on • Fencing or re-fencing of private property and is accessed by several areas to eliminate the public by permission of the livestock access and foster landowner. habitat restoration and enhancement in those areas. 9 Monitoring

None of these projects is considered Six photopoints have been costly. The new trail plus the related established on CSLNR (Fig. 8) which closures, would call for expenditures include areas of exotic species, in the $1,000-$2,000 range for grasslands, restoration sites, major materials. These would be paid out trails and parking areas. These sites of maintenance funds from the will be visited annually and Natural Resources program. The photographs taken from the same restoration projects may be funded perspective. This will give a internally or may utilize grant fund temporal record of the status of the sources. Overall cost of the resource over time. Should revegetation programs is considered examination of subsequent to be in the $15,000 range. photographs suggest that the status of the resource is being negatively The fire preparedness plan has impacted (i.e. exceeding limits of certain minor maintenance costs acceptable change) by visitor activity associated with it, specifically, or management decisions, permitted periodic pruning of vegetation and uses and management strategy will removal of forest litter in a limited be re-evaluated. area, within 200 feet of the Reserve boundary near Hill Street where a eucalyptus grove is adjacent to residential property. For the most part, however, the fire preparedness plan would utilize livestock grazing as the primary management tool, as most of the lands identified as fuel

35 ‘M’

FIGURE 8 CONSERVATION PLAN FIGURE 8 CERRO SAN LUIS NATURAL RESERVE

Location of Monitoring

Photopoints on PAGE 36 Cerro San Luis Natural Reserve Figure 8 cont.

1. Opunita Scrub Habitat

2. Main Trailhead

4. Grassland Habitat 3. Swale Restoration Site

5. Fernandez Rd. Parking

6. Mission School “M” CONSERVATION PLAN CERRO SAN LUIS NATURAL RESERVE PAGE 37 Cerro San Luis Natural Reserve Conservation Plan

Appendix 1

38

Cerro San Luis Natural Reserve Conservation Plan

Appendix 2

39