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HomeMy Public PortalAbout4-4_BiologicalResources.pdf4.4 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES 4.4-1 This section describes the biological resources present or potentially present on the project site, and discusses potential impacts to these resources that could result from buildout of the project, as well as associated mitigation measures to offset any impacts. A. Regulatory Framework 1. Special-Status Species Special status plants and wildlife are those species that are 1) listed as rare, threatened, or endangered by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) or the California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG) under State or federal En- dangered Species Acts, 2) on formal lists as candidates for listing as threatened or endangered, 3) on formal lists as species of concern, or 4) otherwise recog- nized at the federal, State, or local level as sensitive. a. Federal Endangered Species Act Under the Federal Endangered Species Act (FESA), it is unlawful to “take” any species listed as threatened or endangered. “Take” is defined as to “harass, harm, pursue, hunt, shoot, wound, kill, trap, capture, or collect, or attempt to engage in any such conduct.” An activity is defined as “take” even if it is unintentional or accidental. Take provisions under FESA apply only to listed fish and wildlife species under the jurisdiction of the USFWS and/or the Na- tional Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration, National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS). Consultation with USFWS or NMFS is required if a project “may affect” or result in “take” of a listed species. When a species is listed, the USFWS and/or NMFS, in most cases, must offi- cially designate specific areas as critical habitat for the species. Consultation with USFWS and/or NMFS is required for projects that include a federal ac- tion or federal funding if the project will modify designated critical habitat. b. California Endangered Species Act Under the California Endangered Species Act (CESA), it is unlawful to “take” any species listed as rare, threatened, or endangered. “Take” means to “hunt, TOWN OF TRUCKEE CANYON SPRINGS DRAFT EIR BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES 4.4-2 pursue, catch, capture, or kill, or attempt to hunt, pursue, catch, capture, or kill.” CESA take provisions apply to fish, wildlife, and plant species. Take may result whenever activities occur in areas that support a listed species. Consultation with CDFG is required if a project will result in “take” of a listed species. c. Migratory Bird Treaty Act and California Fish and Game Code Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) prohibits actions that will result in “take” of migratory birds, their eggs, feathers, or nests. “Take” is defined in the MBTA to include by any means or in any manner, any attempt at hunt- ing, pursuing, wounding, killing, possessing or transporting any migratory bird, nest, egg, or part thereof. Migratory birds are also protected, as defined in the MBTA, under Section 3513 of the California Fish and Game Code. In addition, Section 3503 of the California Fish and Game Code prohibits the take, possession, or needless destruction of the nest or eggs of any bird, except as otherwise provided by the California Fish and Game Code or other regulation. 2. Jurisdictional Waters Jurisdictional waters include most drainage features (e.g. rivers, streams), open water features (e.g. lakes, ponds), and wetlands (e.g. marshes, seeps). Jurisdic- tional waters are often regulated by one or more government agencies, as de- scribed below. a. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (CWA), the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE) regulates the discharge of dredged or fill material into wa- ters of the U.S. These are waters that have a connection to interstate com- merce, either direct via a tributary system or indirect through a nexus identi- fied in the ACOE regulations. In non-tidal waters, the lateral limit of juris- diction under Section 404 extends to the ordinary high water mark (OHWM) of a waterbody or, where adjacent wetlands are present, beyond the OHWM to the limit of the wetlands. The OHWM is defined as “that line on the shore TOWN OF TRUCKEE CANYON SPRINGS DRAFT EIR BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES 4.4-3 established by the fluctuations of water and indicated by physical characteris- tics such as a clear natural line impressed on the bank, shelving, changes in the character of the soil, destruction of terrestrial vegetation, the presence of litter and debris, or other appropriate means that consider the characteristics of the surrounding area”.1 In tidal waters, the lateral limit of jurisdiction extends to the high tidal line (HTL) or, where adjacent wetlands are present, beyond the HTL to the limit of the wetlands. Wetlands are defined as “those areas that are inundated or saturated by surface or ground water at a frequency and duration sufficient to support, and that under normal circumstances do support, a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted for a life in saturated soil conditions.” Non-wetland waters essential- ly include any body of water, not otherwise exempted, that displays an OHWM. b. Regional Water Quality Control Board Under Section 401 of the CWA, the State Water Resources Control Board must certify all activities requiring a 404 permit. The Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB) regulates these activities and issues water quality certification for those activities requiring a 404 permit. In addition, the RWQCB has authority to regulate the discharge of “waste” into waters of the State pursuant to the Porter-Cologne Water Quality Control Act (PCWQCA). The RWQCB may also regulate the discharge of fill within the 100-year floodplain of waters of the State. c. California Department of Fish and Game The California Department of Fish and Game, through provisions of Sections 1600-1616 of the State of California Code of Regulations (CCR), is empow- ered to issue agreements for any alteration of a river, stream, or lake where fish or wildlife resources may be substantially adversely affected. Streams (and rivers) are defined by the presence of a channel bed and banks, and the 1 Title 33: Navigation and Navigable Waters, Chapter Ii: Corps of Engineers, Department of The Army, Department of Defense, Part 328: Definition of Waters of The United States, 328.3 Definitions. TOWN OF TRUCKEE CANYON SPRINGS DRAFT EIR BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES 4.4-4 conveyance of at least ephemeral flows. The CDFG regulates wetland areas only to the extent that those wetlands are part of a river, stream, or lake as defined by CDFG. The CDFG generally includes, within the jurisdictional limits of streams and lakes, any riparian habitat present. Riparian habitat includes willows, cot- tonwoods, and other vegetation typically associated with the banks of a stream or lake shoreline. In most situations, wetlands associated with a stream or lake would fall within the limits of riparian habitat. Thus, defining the limits of the CDFG jurisdiction based on riparian habitat will typically include any wetland areas. The CDFG has not defined wetlands for jurisdic- tional purposes. Wetlands not associated with a lake, stream, or other regu- lated area are generally not subject to the CDFG jurisdiction. 3. Town of Truckee 2025 General Plan The following goals from the Conservation and Open Space Element of the Town of Truckee 2025 General Plan are applicable to biological resources (see Table 4.4-1). 4. Town of Truckee Development Code The following chapters from the Town of Truckee Development Code, Arti- cle III – Site Planning and General Development Standards, are applicable to biological resources. ¤ Chapter 18.30 – Purpose and Applicability ¤ Chapter 18.34 – Flood Plain ¤ Chapter 18.36 – Hillside Development Standards ¤ Chapter 18.38 – Lake and River/Stream Corridor Development ¤ Chapter 18.46 – Open Space/Cluster Requirements B. Existing Conditions This section provides a description of the existing conditions on the project site relative to biological resources. A discussion of the methods for analysis is also included. TOWN OF TRUCKEE CANYON SPRINGS DRAFT EIR BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES 4.4-5 TABLE 4.4-1 TRUCKEE GENERAL PLAN POLICIES PERTAINING TO BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES Policy or Goal No. Goals and Policies Goal LU-4 Coordinate land development with provision of services and infra- structure. LU-P4.1 Require new infrastructure and development to be designed and built to manage stormwater runoff and to minimize or eliminate harmful impacts to property prone to flooding, water quality, and riparian, wetland, and meadow habitats. When infrastructure is replaced or retrofitted, require the upgrading of stormwater man- agement systems to minimize or eliminate these impacts. Goal LU-7 Encourage clustered residential development to create efficient devel- opment patterns, and to minimize environmental impacts and threats to public safety. LU-P7.1 For all residential developments, require clustering where appro- priate. Clustered development as defined in this General Plan includes the following considerations: ¤ Clustering of residential development will allow flexibility of site design in responding to the natural features and resources of an individual site. ¤ Clustering means that structures will be located on a site so that larger areas are left as undeveloped open space. ¤ Undeveloped areas may either be preserved in private or public open space, or may be a portion of an individual lot, with deed restrictions prohibiting construction in that portion. LU-P7.2 Residential development shall be clustered to avoid areas of signifi- cant natural resources, including wildlife habitat and migration corridors and visual resources. LU-P7.4 Clustered development shall incorporate preservation of open space areas as an integral and primary consideration in the overall development plan for a site. Considerations in preserving open space through clustering shall include the following: ¤ Maximizing preservation of open space types that reflect the Town’s priorities as stated in the Conservation and Open Space Element. ¤ Maintaining an appropriate relationship of the site to the char- acter and context of adjacent neighborhood areas and nearby and adjoining open space areas. ¤ Respecting individual site features and characteristics, including topography, natural features, natural hazards and constraints, and the presence of sensitive biological resources. TOWN OF TRUCKEE CANYON SPRINGS DRAFT EIR BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES TABLE 4.4-1 TRUCKEE GENERAL PLAN POLICIES PERTAINING TO BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES (CONTINUED) 4.4-6 Policy or Goal No. Goals and Policies Goal CC-2 Preserve the natural beauty of Truckee, including the Town’s scenic resources, views and vistas, and the visual quality of the town’s steep slopes, ridge and bluff lines and hillsides. CC-P2.10 Encourage the preservation of trees and native vegetation, includ- ing specimen trees, in development projects. Goal COS-1 Preserve existing open space in Truckee, and increase the amount of desired types of open space under permanent protection. COS-P1.5 Adhere to the following criteria for open space preserved through direct actions of the Town, through open space and clustered de- velopment requirements and incentives, and through the devel- opment review process: ¤ Provide the maximum possible degree of community benefit, as expressed through the Vision for Truckee and the guiding prin- ciples, goals and policies of the General Plan. ¤ Preserve open space that, to the greatest possible extent, occurs in large blocks and is contiguous and connected. ¤ Provide the greatest possible level of public access while respect- ing private property rights, sensitive habitat values, and safety concerns. ¤ Provide maximum benefit in terms of habitat preservation. ¤ Enhance the overall character of Truckee as a scenic, mountain community. Goal COS-4 Protect areas of significant wildlife habitat and sensitive biological resources. COS-P4.1 Provide for the integrity and continuity of biological resources open space, habitat, and wildlife movement corridors and support the permanent protection and restoration of these areas, particular- ly those identified as sensitive resources. COS-P4.2 Protect sensitive wildlife habitat from destruction and intrusion by incompatible land uses where appropriate. All efforts to protect sensitive habitats should consider: ¤ Sensitive habitat and movement corridors in the areas adjacent to development sites, as well as on the development site itself. ¤ Prevention of habitat fragmentation and loss of connectivity. ¤ Use of appropriate protection measures for sensitive habitat areas such as non-disturbance easements and open space zoning. ¤ Off-site habitat restoration as a potential mitigation provided that no net loss of habitat value results. ¤ Potential mitigation or elimination of impacts through manda- tory clustering of development, and/or project redesign. TOWN OF TRUCKEE CANYON SPRINGS DRAFT EIR BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES TABLE 4.4-1 TRUCKEE GENERAL PLAN POLICIES PERTAINING TO BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES (CONTINUED) 4.4-7 Policy or Goal No. Goals and Policies COS-P4.4 Preserve riparian corridors, Donner Lake and aquatic and wetland areas through application of setbacks and other development standards that respect these resources. COS-P4.5 Development shall be prohibited within established setback areas for streams and waterways other than the Truckee River, except as otherwise allowed in the Development Code; such setbacks shall be between 20 and 50 feet on parcels less than 175 feet deep (de- pending on parcel depth), and 50 feet on parcels 175 feet deep or more. Goal COS-5 Maintain biodiversity among plant and animal species in the Town of Truckee and the surrounding area, with special consideration of species identified as sensitive, rare, declining, unique, or representing valuable biological resources. COS-P5.1 Require biological resource assessments for all development in areas where special status species may be present. COS-P5.2 Protect native plant species in undisturbed portions of a develop- ment site and encourage planting and regeneration of native plant species wherever possible in undisturbed portions of the project site. COS-P5.3 Protect to the extent possible federal or State-designated endan- gered, threatened, special status or candidate species. Goal COS-9 Link open space areas in Truckee through a well-connected network of open space corridors and trails. COS-P9.1 Provide for links between open space areas, both within Truckee and beyond the Town limits, to create contiguous habitat areas and enhance public access through greater connectivity. Source: Town of Truckee 2025 General Plan. 1. Methods a. Literature Search Prior to conducting any field work, LSA Associates, Inc. (LSA) performed database searches of the California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB) and California Native Plant Society (CNPS) Online Inventory referencing the Martis Peak, Truckee, Hobart Mills, Boca, Tahoe City, and Kings Beach Cali- fornia United States Geological Survey (USGS) 7.5-minute topographic quad- rangles. LSA also obtained a species list from the USFWS, Sacramento Field TOWN OF TRUCKEE CANYON SPRINGS DRAFT EIR BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES 4.4-8 Office website, referencing these quadrangles. Foothill Associates, Inc. (Foothill) also performed a detailed review of existing literature over a period of more than 20 years regarding wildlife use and movement on the site and in the region. A list of referenced material is provided in Appendix E of this Draft EIR. LSA and Foothill also reviewed prior biological documentation that was re- cently prepared and is associated with the project site. These include: ¤ Biological Resource Analysis for the Tahoe Boca Estates Project Site, prepared by Foothill Associates, Inc., dated August 6, 2004; ¤ Town of Truckee 2025 General Plan Conservation and Open Space Ele- ment, adopted November 16, 2006; ¤ Draft Environmental Impact Report, Canyon Springs Subdivision, State Clearinghouse Number 2004052060, prepared by Quad Knopf, dated April 2007;2 ¤ Movement and Migration of Mule Deer at the Canyon Springs Site, Truckee, CA, prepared by RMT, Inc., dated October 20, 2009. ¤ Delineation of Waters of the U.S. Canyon Spring, Town of Truckee, #200300655, prepared by Heal Environmental Consulting (HEC), dated January 11, 2011; and ¤ CEQA Significance of Mule Deer at the Canyon Springs Site, Truckee, CA, prepared by HEC, dated July 28, 2011. The special status species lists obtained from the CNDDB, CNPS, and USFWS, and literature listed above, were reviewed to determine which spe- cies could potentially occur on the project site. Those species with potential 2 The 2007 Draft EIR prepared for the project site by Quad Knopf was com- pleted and comments were provided by the public and interested agencies; however, no Final EIR was prepared and the 2007 Draft EIR was not certified. Comments submitted on the 2007 Draft EIR were taken into consideration for the preparation of this Draft EIR. TOWN OF TRUCKEE CANYON SPRINGS DRAFT EIR BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES 4.4-9 to occur on the project site based on literature review and habitat require- ments were compiled into a cumulative list presented in Table 4.4-2. b. Field Surveys Current field surveys were conducted in the spring and summer of 2011 by Foothill Associates on April 5, by HEC from May 3 to July 6, and by LSA on June 8, June 30, and July 11. HEC also conducted surveys in 2010 on Au- gust 30, September 1-2, and between October 13 and December 16. i. General Biology and Focused Plant Surveys The June 8, 2011 survey was conducted by LSA biologist Jeff Bray and con- sisted of a general reconnaissance level survey of the project site. Since a sub- stantial amount of field work and reporting has been conducted on the pro- ject site (i.e. Foothill Associates 2004, and HEC, 2010-2011, and LSA, 2011), the intent of the June 8, 2011 survey was to determine if site conditions had changed considerably since the previous surveys had been conducted and to verify their accuracy. The June 8, 2011 survey was conducted by walking meandering transects through the project site and documenting site condi- tions while referencing existing mapping. In addition, wildlife observed on the project site was identified and recorded. The June 30 and July 11, 2011 surveys were conducted by LSA botanists Lucie Adams and Jeannette Halderman, and consisted of focused surveys for special status plants, primarily Plumas ivesia (Ivesia sericoleuca). Records for this species are located adjacent to the project site plants listed in Table 4.4-2 as potentially occurring on the project site and were also included in the sur- vey (except mosses). During the month prior to conducting the survey, LSA monitored a known population of Plumas ivesia in the vicinity of the project site to determine when the local population was blooming and clearly identi- fiable, and then scheduled the focused plant surveys during that time. The surveys were conducted by walking meandering transects through suitable habitats on the project site and identifying all plants within the survey area to a suitable level of taxonomy to determine the status. TOWN OF TRUCKEE CANYON SPRINGS DRAFT EIR BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES 4.4-10 TABLE 4.4-2 SPECIAL-STATUS SPECIES POTENTIALLY OCCURRING ON THE CANYON SPRINGS SUBDIVISION PROJECT SITE Common Name/ Scientific Name Status Habitat Requirements Potential for Occurrence Mammals California wolverine Gulo gulo luteus FC; ST Occurs in a wide variety of habitats in the North Coast mountains and the Sierra Nevada., especially mixed coniferous, red fir, and lodgepole communities. A – No suitable habitat is present on the project site. In addition, all CNDDB records of this species within 20 miles of the project site are located well to the west. This species is also sensitive to human disturbance. Pacific fisher Martes pennanti pacifica FC; CSC Found in large areas of mature, dense coniferous forest and deciduous riparian communities with snags and greater than 50% canopy closure. A – No suitable habitat is present on the project site. In addition, all CNDDB records of this species within 20 miles of the project site are located well to the west. Sierra marten Martes americana sierra None Occurs in old growth and mixed-aged conifer stands with a minimum of 40 percent crown closure. Needs snags for cavities and den sites. A – No suitable habitat is present on the project site. In addition, all CNDDB records of this species within 20 miles of the project site are located well to the west or south. Sierra Nevada mountain beaver Aplodontia rufa californica CSC Found in dense growth of small deciduous trees and shrubs with soft, wet soil and an abundance of water in the Sierra Nevadas and East Slope. A – No suitable habitat is present on the project site. Sierra Nevada red fox Vulpes Vulpes necator ST Found from the Cascades down to the Sierra Nevadas in a variety of habitats from wet meadows to forested areas. Uses dense vegetation and rocky areas for cover and den sites. Prefers forests interspersed with meadows or alpine fell-fields. L – The habitats on the project site are only marginally suitable for this species, but there are CNDDB records in the vicinity and it could potentially occur on the project site. Sierra Nevada snow shoe hare Lepus americanus tahoensis CSC Occurs in boreal regions, typically in riparian communities with thickets of deciduous trees and shrubs. Also frequent dense thickets of young conifers and chaparral communities A – No suitable habitat is present on the project site. Silver-haired bat Lasionycteris noctivagans None Occurs in coastal and montane forests. Roosts in hollow trees, beneath sloughing bark, and in cavities. M – The snags and other mature trees on the project site provide potential roost sites and the wet meadow habitat is suitable foraging habitat. TOWN OF TRUCKEE CANYON SPRINGS DRAFT EIR BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES TABLE 4.4-2 SPECIAL-STATUS SPECIES POTENTIALLY OCCURRING ON THE CANYON SPRINGS SUBDIVISION PROJECT SITE (CONTINUED) 4.4-11 Common Name/ Scientific Name Status Habitat Requirements Potential for Occurrence Birds Bald eagle Haliaeetus leucocephalus FD; SE Nesting restricted to mountainous communities near permanent water sources. Winters throughout most of California at lakes, reservoirs, river systems, and coastal wetlands. L – No suitable nesting or wintering habitat is present on the project site, but the site provides marginal foraging habitat and there are records of this species in the vicinity. Greater sandhill crane Grus canadensis tabida ST Nests in marsh and other wetland habitats in northeastern California. Winters in the Central Valley where it forages in grain fields. A – No suitable habitat is present on the project site. Northern goshawk Accipiter gentiles CSC Typically nests in coniferous forests, on north slopes and near water, in red fir, lodgepole pine, Jeffrey pine, and aspens. L – The Jeffrey pine community is marginally suitable habitat for this species, but the project is lacking the north slopes and water resources typically found in suitable habitat for this species. Willow flycatcher Empidonax traillii SE Inhabits extensive thickets of low, dense willows on the edge of wet meadows, ponds, or backwaters, at 2,000 – 8,000 ft elevation; requires dense willow thickets for nesting/roosting. Low, exposed branches are used for singing posts/hunting perches. M – No suitable nesting habitat is present on the project site but suitable nesting habitat occurs in the vicinity. Consequently, this species could potentially occur on the project site. Yellow warbler Dendroica petechia brewsteri CSC Nests in riparian habitats and prefers willows, cottonwoods, aspens, sycamores, and alders for both nesting and foraging. Also nests in montane shrubbery in open conifer forests. M – Marginal nesting habitat is present on the project site and suitable nesting habitat occurs in the vicinity. Consequently, this species could potentially occur on the project site. Amphibians (USFWS) Mountain yellow-legged frog (Sierra Nevada Population) Rana muscosa (CDFG) Sierra Nevada yellow-legged frog Rana sierra FC; CSC Always encountered within a few feet of water; partly shaded, shallow streams, and riffles with a rocky substrate. Tadpoles may require up to two years to complete their aquatic development. Endangered populations exist in the San Jacinto, San Gabriel, and San Bernardino Mountains only. A – No suitable habitat is present on the project site. TOWN OF TRUCKEE CANYON SPRINGS DRAFT EIR BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES TABLE 4.4-2 SPECIAL-STATUS SPECIES POTENTIALLY OCCURRING ON THE CANYON SPRINGS SUBDIVISION PROJECT SITE (CONTINUED) 4.4-12 Common Name/ Scientific Name Status Habitat Requirements Potential for Occurrence Fish Lahontan cutthroat trout Oncorhynchus clarki henshawi FT Historically in all accessible cold waters of the Lahonton Basin. The current distribution is limited to the Truckee River and several tributaries. Requires gravel riffles in streams for spawning. A – No suitable habitat is present on the project site. Invertebrates Amphibious caddisfly Desmona bethula None Known from Sierra Nevada, including Madera, Mariposa, Mono, Nevada, Placer, Plumas, and Sierra counties, and Sequoia National Park. Larvae live in small spring streams with slow currents in wet meadows. A – The aquatic resources on the project site are not perennial and, therefore, are not suitable habitat for this species. Cold Spring caddisfly Lepidostoma ermanae None Locally distributed in the northern Sierra Nevada. Found in cold springs at 6,700 feet elevation, that are permanently shaded. Larvae are restricted to spring sources. The cylindrical larval case is made from stones. A – The aquatic resources on the project site are not perennial and, therefore, are not suitable habitat for this species. Kings Canyon chryptochian caddisfly Cryptochia excella None Known from the type locality and from Sagehen reaches of Lower Kiln tributary, Nevada County. Restricted to cold spring streams and their sources. A – The aquatic resources on the project site are not perennial and, therefore, are not suitable habitat for this species. Kings Creek ecclisomyia caddisfly Ecclisomyia bilera None Known from Lassen Volcanic National Park, Lassen County, and springs in Lincoln Creek basin in Sierra County. Larvae live in small, cold springs sources, and are often found among rocks and gravel. A – The aquatic resources on the project site are not perennial and, therefore, are not suitable habitat for this species. Sagehen Creek goaracean caddisfly Goeracea oregona None Benthic species, found in clear, relatively warm springs. Known from several sites in Nevada County. A – The aquatic resources on the project site are not perennial and, therefore, are not suitable habitat for this species. TOWN OF TRUCKEE CANYON SPRINGS DRAFT EIR BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES TABLE 4.4-2 SPECIAL-STATUS SPECIES POTENTIALLY OCCURRING ON THE CANYON SPRINGS SUBDIVISION PROJECT SITE (CONTINUED) 4.4-13 Common Name/ Scientific Name Status Habitat Requirements Potential for Occurrence Plants Alder buckthorn Rhamnus alnifolia CNPS 2 Meadows and seeps in upper and lower montane coniferous forest; montane riparian scrub. 4,500 – 7,000 ft. elevation. Blooms May – July. U – Marginal habitat for this species is present on the project site, but this species was not observed during recent focused plant surveys by LSA in June and July 2011, which were conducted during the normal blooming period for this species. Neither was this species observed during previous plant surveys in 2004 (Foothill Associates, Inc.) and 1990 (Eco-Analysts). Bolander’s bruchia Bruchia bolanderi CNPS 2 Occurs in meadows and seeps in upper and lower montane coniferous forest, 5,600 – 9,200 ft. elevation. Blooming period unknown. L - The aquatic resources on the project site are not perennial and, therefore, the habitat is only marginally suitable for this species. Focused surveys were not conducted for mosses. Broad-nerved hump moss Meesia uliginosa CNPS 2 Bogs and fens, meadows and seeps, upper montane coniferous forest growing on mesic soils; 4,200 – 8,200 ft. elevation. Blooms in October. L - The aquatic resources on the project site are not perennial and, therefore, the habitat is only marginally suitable for this species. Focused surveys were not conducted for mosses. Carson Range rock-cress Arabis rigidissima var. demote CNPS 1B Broadleaf upland forest and upper montane coniferous forest communities in elevations ranging from approximately 7,400 to 8,400 feet A - The project area is well below the elevation range for this species. Common moonwort Botrychium lunaria CNPS 2 Occurs in meadows and seeps in upper montane and subalpine coniferous forest, 7,500 – 11,150 ft. elevation. Blooms in August. A - The project area is well below the elevation range for this species. Davy’s sedge Carex davyi CNPS 1B Vernally mesic areas in subalpine and upper montane coniferous forest; 4,900 – 10,500 ft. Blooms May – August. U – Marginal habitat for this species is present on the project site, but this species was not observed during recent focused plant surveys by LSA in June and July 2011, which were conducted during the normal blooming period for this species. Neither was this species observed during previous plant surveys in 2004 (Foothill Associates, Inc.) and 1990 (Eco-Analysts). TOWN OF TRUCKEE CANYON SPRINGS DRAFT EIR BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES TABLE 4.4-2 SPECIAL-STATUS SPECIES POTENTIALLY OCCURRING ON THE CANYON SPRINGS SUBDIVISION PROJECT SITE (CONTINUED) 4.4-14 Common Name/ Scientific Name Status Habitat Requirements Potential for Occurrence Donner Pass buckwheat Eriogonum umbellatum var. torreyanum CNPS 1B Meadows and seeps, and upper montane coniferous forest communities; 6,000 – 8,600 ft. elevation. Blooms July – September. U – Marginal habitat for this species is present on the project site, but this species was not observed during recent focused plant surveys by LSA in June and July 2011, which were conducted at the start of the normal blooming period for this species. Neither was this species observed during previous plant surveys in 2004 (Foothill Associates, Inc.) and 1990 (Eco- Analysts). English sundew Drosera angelica CNPS 2 Bogs and fens, and meadows and seeps; 4,200 – 6,500 ft. elevation. Blooms June – September. U – The aquatic resources on the project site are not perennial and, therefore, are not suitable habitat for this species. In addition, this species was not observed during recent focused plant surveys by LSA in June and July 2011, which were conducted during the normal blooming period for this species. Neither was this species observed during previous plant surveys in 2004 (Foothill Associates, Inc.) and 1990 (Eco-Analysts). Marsh skullcap Scutellaria galericulata CNPS 2 Occurs under moist conditions in meadow and freshwater-marsh habitats, 0 – 6,900 ft. elevation. Blooms June – September. U – Potential habitat for this species is present on the project site, but this species was not observed during recent focused plant surveys by LSA in June and July 2011, which were conducted during the normal blooming period for this species. Neither was this species observed during previous plant surveys in 2004 (Foothill Associates, Inc.) and 1990 (Eco-Analysts). Mingan moonwort Botrychium minganense CNPS 2 Occurs in bogs and fens in upper and lower montane coniferous forest, 4,900 – 6,750 ft. elevation. Blooms July – September. U – The aquatic resources on the project site are not perennial and, therefore, are not suitable habitat for this species. In addition, this species was not observed during recent focused plant surveys by LSA in June and July 2011, which were conducted at the start of the normal blooming period for this species. Neither was this species observed during previous plant surveys in 2004 (Foothill Associates, Inc.) and 1990 (Eco- Analysts). TOWN OF TRUCKEE CANYON SPRINGS DRAFT EIR BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES TABLE 4.4-2 SPECIAL-STATUS SPECIES POTENTIALLY OCCURRING ON THE CANYON SPRINGS SUBDIVISION PROJECT SITE (CONTINUED) 4.4-15 Common Name/ Scientific Name Status Habitat Requirements Potential for Occurrence Mud sedge Carex limosa CNPS 2 Bogs and fens in lower and upper montane coniferous forests; 4,000 – 9100 ft. elevation. Blooms June – August. U – The aquatic resources on the project site are not perennial and, therefore, are not suitable habitat for this species. In addition, this species was not observed during recent focused plant surveys by LSA in June and July 2011, which were conducted during the normal blooming period for this species. Neither was this species observed during previous plant surveys in 2004 (Foothill Associates, Inc.) and 1990 (Eco-Analysts). Oregon fireweed Epilobium oreganum CNPS 1B In and near springs and bogs in meadows, lower and upper coniferous forest; sometimes in serpentine; 1,640-8,560 ft. Blooms June – September. U – Marginal habitat for this species is present on the project site, but this species was not observed during recent focused plant surveys by LSA in June and July 2011, which were conducted during the normal blooming period for this species. Neither was this species observed during previous plant surveys in 2004 (Foothill Associates, Inc.) and 1990 (Eco-Analysts). Plumas ivesia Ivesia sericoleuca CNPS 1B Vernally mesic areas; in lower montane coniferous forests, and meadows, 4,800 – 7,200 ft. elevation. Blooms May – September. U – Potential habitat for this species is present on the project site and there are several CNDDB records near the project site. However, this species was not observed during recent focused plant surveys by LSA in June and July 2011, which were conducted during the normal blooming period for this species, nor was this species observed during previous plant surveys in 2004 (Foothill Associates, Inc.) and 1990 (Eco-Analysts). Santa Lucia dwarf rush Juncus luciensis CNPS 1B Vernal pools, ephemeral drainages, wet meadow habitats, and streamsides, in lower montane coniferous forest, chaparral, and Great Basin scrub, 1000 – 6,700 ft. elevation. Blooms April – July. U – Potential habitat for this species is present on the project site, but this species was not observed during recent focused plant surveys by LSA in June and July 2011, which were conducted during the normal blooming period for this species. Neither was this species observed during previous plant surveys in 2004 (Foothill Associates, Inc.) and 1990 (Eco-Analysts). Sierra starwort Pseudostellaria sierra CNPS 1B Chaparral, cismontane woodland, montane coniferous forest, 4,000 – 6,700 ft. elevation. Blooms May – August. U – Potential habitat for this species is present on the project site, but this species was not observed during recent focused plant surveys by LSA in June and July 2011, which were conducted during the normal blooming period for this species. Neither was this species observed during previous plant surveys in 2004 (Foothill Associates, Inc.) and 1990 (Eco-Analysts). TOWN OF TRUCKEE CANYON SPRINGS DRAFT EIR BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES TABLE 4.4-2 SPECIAL-STATUS SPECIES POTENTIALLY OCCURRING ON THE CANYON SPRINGS SUBDIVISION PROJECT SITE (CONTINUED) 4.4-16 Common Name/ Scientific Name Status Habitat Requirements Potential for Occurrence Slender cottongrass Eriophorum gracile CNPS 4 Bogs and fens, meadows and seeps, upper montane coniferous forest growing on acidic soils; 4,200 – 9,500 ft. elevation. Blooms May – September. U – Marginal habitat for this species is present on the project site, but this species was not observed during recent focused plant surveys by LSA in June and July 2011, which were conducted during the normal blooming period for this species. Neither was this species observed during previous plant surveys in 2004 (Foothill Associates, Inc.) and 1990 (Eco-Analysts). Tahoe yellow-cress Rorippa subumbellata ST; CNPS 1B Meadows and seeps; decomposed granitic beaches; in lower montane coniferous forest, 6,200 – 6,300 ft. elevation. Blooms May – September. A – No suitable habitat is present on the project site. All current CNDDB records for this species are from Lake Tahoe. Three-ranked hump moss Meesia triquetra CNPS 4 Bogs and fens, meadows and seeps, upper montane coniferous forest growing on mesic soils; 4,200 – 8,200 ft. elevation. Blooms in October. L - The aquatic resources on the project site are not perennial and, therefore, the habitat is only marginally suitable for this species. Focused surveys were not conducted for mosses. Wild buckwheat Eriogonum ovalifolium None Montane pebble meadow. U – Potential habitat for this species is present on the project site and this species has been detected near the project site (A. Juncosa, pers. comm.). However this species was not observed during recent focused plant surveys by LSA in June and July 2011, nor was this species observed during previous plant surveys in 2004 (Foothill Associates, Inc.) and 1990 (Eco- Analysts). Explanation of Occurrence Potential: A (Absent) – Species is concluded to be absent from the project site based on no suitable habitat present and/or failure to detect the species during focused surveys. U (Unexpected) – Species is not expected to occur on the project site based on the failure to detect the species during focused surveys. This occurrence potential is specific to plant species to ac- count for the fact that even micro-changes in site conditions can affect the potential for a given species of plant to occur in an area where it has not previously been detected. L (Low Potential for Occurrence) – There are no recent or historical records of the species occurring on the project site or its immediate vicinity, and suitable habitat for the species does not occur on the project site or its immediate vicinity. M (Moderate Potential for Occurrence) – There is a recent or historical record of the species on the project site or its immediate vicinity or the project is within the species range and contains suitable habitat for the species. H (High Potential for Occurrence) – There is both a recent or historical record of the species in, or in the immediate vicinity of, the project site and/or suitable habitat for the species occurs in, or in the immediate vicinity of, the project site. P (Species Present) – The species was observed on the project site at the time of the survey, or there are numerous records of the species on the project site over a period of time sufficient to estab- lish that the species is present. Federal FT = Threatened FPE = Proposed Endangered FPT = Proposed Threatened FC = Candidate FD = Delisted TOWN OF TRUCKEE CANYON SPRINGS DRAFT EIR BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES TABLE 4.4-2 SPECIAL-STATUS SPECIES POTENTIALLY OCCURRING ON THE CANYON SPRINGS SUBDIVISION PROJECT SITE (CONTINUED) 4.4-17 State SE = Endangered ST = Threatened SR = Rare CSC = Species of Concern SFPS = State Fully Protected Species CNPS CNPS 1A = Presumed extinct in Cali- fornia CNPS 1B = Rare or Endangered in Cali- fornia and elsewhere CNPS 2 = Rare or Endangered in Cali- fornia, more common elsewhere CNPS 3 = Plants about which we need more information; a review list CNPS 4 = Plants of limited distribution; a watch list TOWN OF TRUCKEE CANYON SPRINGS DRAFT EIR BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES 4.4-18 ii. Jurisdictional Delineation HEC conducted field investigations for the jurisdictional delineation on Au- gust 30, and September 1 and 2, 2010. The jurisdictional delineation was per- formed in accordance with the 1987 ACOE Wetland Delineation Manual3 and the Interim Regional Supplement to the Army Corps of Engineers Wet- lands Delineation Manual: Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast Region (2008)4 and included collection of vegetation, soils, and hydrology data. The delineation effort is summarized in a report, Delineation of Waters of the U.S. Canyon Spring, Town of Truckee, #200300655, dated January 11, 2011 (included in Appendix D of this Draft EIR. 5 iii. Mule Deer Use and Migration Analysis The April 5, 2011 survey was conducted by Foothill biologist Brian Mayerle and consisted of a general reconnaissance level survey of the project site. Field investigations were conducted by HEC for the use of the project site by the Verdi subunit of the Loyalton-Truckee mule deer herd throughout the fall of 2010 and spring of 2011. The studies involved an extensive field study that utilized camera stations to collect detailed data of this deer herd move- ment on the site. Staff at CDFG and Nevada Division of Wildlife (NDOW) were also contacted throughout this period to ascertain if any updates to these mule deer studies have taken place since the previous analysis for the project site was prepared. In addition, the existing information received from the 3 Environmental Laboratory, 1987. “ACOE of Engineers Wetlands Delinea- tion Manual,” Technical Report Y-87-1, U.S. Army Engineer Waterways Experiment Station, Vicksburg, MS. 4 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE), 2008. Interim Regional Supplement to the ACOE of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual: Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast Region (Version 2.0), ed. J.S. Wakeley, R.W. Lichvar, and C.V. Noble. ERDC/EL TR-10-3. Vicksburg, MS: U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center. 5 These wetland boundaries were verified by the ACOE on October 11, 2011. The previous delineation was verified by the ACOE on June 7, 2005. The current delineation includes more riverine emergent wetlands and wet meadow than the pre- vious delineation. TOWN OF TRUCKEE CANYON SPRINGS DRAFT EIR BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES 4.4-19 CDFG was reviewed. The 2009 and 2011 mule deer reports are included in Appendix E of this Draft EIR. 2. Setting Based on the findings from Foothill’s April 5, 2011 and LSA’s June 8, 2011 general reconnaissance level survey, it was determined that the site conditions were predominantly unchanged from the conditions reported in previous analysis prepared for the project site. As a result, the following discussion of the existing setting is based largely on the findings from the previous analysis prepared for the project site. The approximately 290-acre project site is predominantly undeveloped forest, scrub, and meadow habitats. A well-developed network of unpaved roads and trails is distributed throughout the site. This network extends into adjacent lands on all sides of the project site. The project site is accessed by surround- ing subdivision residents and experiences year-round unauthorized use. In the winter, the site is used by cross-country and backcountry skiers, snowshoers, and snowmobile users. In other seasons the project site is used by hikers, mountain bikers, equestrians, and off-road vehicle users. The only formal development on the project site is the Liberty Energy – California Pacific Electric Company’s overhead high-power transmission line and associated access road that spans the project site in a southwest-northeast orientation for approximately 2,300 feet. The project site is a forested area with meadows and wetlands that trend northwesterly through the central and southern portions of the site. The site is characterized by rolling topography that generally slopes gently downward to the northwest along two ridges. Slopes are generally 1 to 10 percent, but with some isolated areas exceeding 30 percent. Elevations on the site range from approximately 5,920 feet above mean sea level (MSL) in the northwest to 6,120 feet above MSL in the southeast. TOWN OF TRUCKEE CANYON SPRINGS DRAFT EIR BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES 4.4-20 a. Plant Communities Nomenclature for plant communities was based on A Guide to Wildlife Habi- tats of California6 with additional information provided by A Manual of Cali- fornia Vegetation,7 Preliminary Descriptions of the Terrestrial Natural Commu- nities of California,8 and Terrestrial Vegetation of California.9 The previous analysis prepared for the project site was also referenced to describe pebble meadows. Plant communities occurring on the project site are described below, and in- clude Jeffery pine, sagebrush, wet meadow, and pebble meadow. Common plant and wildlife species observed, or expected to occur, in these communi- ties are also noted. Figure 4.4-1 illustrates the plant communities on the pro- ject site. i. Jeffrey Pine Jeffrey pine communities are distributed through the Klamath Mountains into southwestern Oregon, across the Sierra Nevada into western Nevada, and southward into the Transverse and Peninsular Ranges into northern Baja California. Jeffery pine vegetation communities range in elevation from ap- proximately 200 to 9,500 feet. The assemblage of this vegetation community type is dependent on several site specific factors including but not limited to climate, topography, and soil composition. Jeffrey pine (Pinus jeffreyi) is the dominant species found in the upper canopy. Other tree species commonly associated with Jeffrey pine communities include Ponderosa pine (P. pondero- 6 Mayer, K.E. and W.F. Laudenslayer, Jr., eds., 1988. A Guide to Wildlife Hab- itats of California. California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, Sacramen- to, CA. 7 Sawyer, John O. and Todd Keeler-Wolf, 1995. A Manual of California Vege- tation. California Native Plant Society. Sacramento, CA. 8 Holland, R., 1986. Preliminary Descriptions of Terrestrial Natural Commu- nities of California. State of California. California Department of Fish and Game. Rancho Cordova, CA. TOWN OF TRUCKEE CANYON SPRINGS DRAFT EIR BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES 4.4-21 sa), sugar pine (P. lambertiana), white-fir (Abies concolor), Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii), lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta murrayana), incense cedar (Calocedrus decurrens), canyon live oak (Quercus chrysolepis), Black oak (Q. kelloggii), and quaking aspen (Populus tremuloides). Jeffrey pine is the most common plant community on the project site, total- ing approximately 225.65 acres. Within the Jeffery pine community, an un- der story component is present and consists of woody shrub species, notably bitterbrush (Purshia tridentata), mountain sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata vaseyana) and rabbitbrush (Chrysothamnus nauseosus). An herbaceous ground layer is present and consists of mules ears (Wyethia mollis), mountain violet (Viola purpurea), needle grass (Achnatherum sp.), and squirrel tail grass (Ely- mus elymoides). Because of the food value of the Jeffrey pine seeds, bark, and foliage, Jeffrey pine communities typically provide substantial foraging habitat for wildlife.10 Species expected to use these food sources include mule deer (Odocoileus hem- ionus), squirrels (Sciurus sp.), chipmunks (Tamias sp.), and other mammal spe- cies. In addition, this community provides the necessary nesting cover for several bird species such as brown creeper (Certhia americana), hairy wood- pecker (Picoides villosus), northern flicker (Colaptes auratus), white-breasted nuthatch (Sitta carolinensis); and Steller’s jay (Cyanocitta stelleri). ii. Sagebrush Sagebrush communities form a discontinuous strip along the eastern and northeastern borders of California, occupying dry slopes and flats in eleva- tions ranging from approximately 1,600 to 10,500 feet. Generally, a species of sagebrush (Artemisia sp.), defines this under story layer, but often bitterbrush, 9 California Native Plant Society (CNPS), 1988. Terrestrial Vegetation of Cali- fornia. Michael G. Barbour and Jack Major, eds., University of California, Davis. California Native Plant Society. Sacramento, CA. v + 1020 pp. 10 Mayer, K.E. and W.F. Laudenslayer, Jr., eds., 1988. A Guide to Wildlife Habitats of California. California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, Sac- ramento, CA. TOWN OF TRUCKEE CANYON SPRINGS DRAFT EIR BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES 4.4-22 rabbitbrush, or another species of sagebrush which typically constitutes an associate component, will dominate this vegetation community type. Tree species may occur in low densities within this vegetation community. As with Jeffrey pine vegetation community types, the assemblage of this vegeta- tion community type is dependent on several site-specific factors, including but not limited to climate, topography, and soil composition. The sagebrush community on the project site comprises approximately 59.71 acres and is dominated by mountain sagebrush; associate shrubs include bit- terbrush, low sagebrush (Artemisia arbuscula), and rabbitbrush. In addition, a variety of grasses and herbaceous plant species were observed within this community including mountain dandelion (Agoseris sp.), mules ears, larkspur (Delphinium depauperatum), lotus (Lotus purshianus var. purshianus), common yarrow (Achillea millefolium), and needle grass. This community provides habitat for several game species such as pronghorn (Antilocapra americana), sage grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus), and migrato- ry deer herds. In addition, sagebrush communities are occupied by birds such as gray flycatcher (Empidonax wrightii), magpie (Pica sp.), sage thrasher (Orescoptes montanus), and various other songbirds and hawks; and mammals such as ground squirrel (Spermophilus sp.), jackrabbit (Lepus sp.), kangaroo rat (Dipodomys sp.), and sagebrush vole (Lagurus curtatus). Wildlife observed within this community on the site includes dove (Zenaida sp.) and chipmunk. In addition, evidence (scat and tracks) of mule deer were observed during the field surveys. iii. Wet Meadow Wet meadows are distributed throughout the mountains of the Sierra Nevada and occur within almost every forest type, including Jeffrey pine. Meadows are areas typically dominated by herbaceous plant species such as grasses and sedges (Carex spp.); occasionally, when water persists, willows (Salix spp.) and/or other woody shrub species may occur. Tree species are typically low in cover, or absent altogether. Meadows are often, but not always, jurisdic- tional wetlands. Match Line Ma r t i s P e a k R o a d LEGEND Biological Study Area Snags Plant Communities (290.73 ac) Big Sagebrush Series (59.71 ac) Jeffery Pine Series (225.65 ac) Pebble Meadow (0.70 ac) Wet Meadow (4.67 ac) SOURCE: Basemap - ESRI Imagery (2010); Mapping - Foothill Associates (2004); Heal Environmental Consulting (2011) FIGURE 4.4-1 Canyon Springs Subdivision Plant Communities Match Line Glen s h i r e D r i v e M a r t i s P e a k R o a d 0200400 FEET I:\DCV1101\GIS\plant_comm.mxd (8/19/11) Match Line Martis Peak Road LEGEND Biological Study Area Snags Plant Communities (290.73 ac) Big Sagebrush Series (59.71 ac) Jeffery Pine Series (225.65 ac) Pebble Meadow (0.70 ac) Wet Meadow (4.67 ac) SOURCE: Basemap - ESRI Imagery (2010); Mapping - Foothill Associates (2004); Heal Environmental Consulting (2011) FIGURE 4.4-1 Canyon Springs Subdivision Plant Communities Match Line Glenshire Drive M a r t i s P e a k R o a d 0200400 FEET I:\DCV1101\GIS\plant_comm.mxd (8/19/11) Source: LSA. Basemap - ESRI Imagery (2010); Mapping - Foothill Associates (2004); Heal Environmental Consulting (2011) TOWN OF TRUCKEE CANYON SPRINGS DRAFT EIR BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES PLANT COMMUNITIES FIGURE 4.4-1 2000 400 FeetNORTH TOWN OF TRUCKEE CANYON SPRINGS DRAFT EIR BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES 4.4-25 Wet meadow habitat on the project site comprise 5.29 acres and consists of two main systems: one in the southwestern portion of the site, and the other in the central portion of the site. Both meadow systems are fed by off-site perennial springs; Buck Springs recharges the meadow system in the south- western portion of the site and an unnamed spring east of the site recharges the meadow system in the central portion of the site. These systems have a gentle gradient and are generally dry by mid-summer except in the upstream areas directly influenced by the springs. This community is within the area designated as open space. Vegetation communities within the meadow systems on the site are depend- ent upon prolonged saturated soil conditions. As such, the vegetation com- munities occurring within the meadow systems on the site are composed of those plant species which can tolerate prolonged saturated soil conditions such as sedges, rushes (Juncus spp.), tufted hairgrass (Deschampsia cespitosa), meadow barley (Hordeum brachyantherum), Richardson’s muhly (Muhlenber- gia richardsonis), Kentucky blue grass (Poa pratensis), Parish’s yampah (Per- ideridia parishii), toad-lily (Montia chamissoi), monkey flower (Mimulus primu- loides), clover (Trifolium spp.), camas (Camassia quamash), and Oregon check- erbloom (Sidalcea oregana). Seasonal wetland communities provide foraging habitat and a temporary wa- ter source for a wide variety of wildlife. Wildlife typically occurring in this community includes invertebrates, amphibians, birds, and mammals. Fauna similar to those observed, or expected to occur, in the surrounding communi- ties on the site are expected to occur in the seasonal wetland communities. iv. Pebble Meadow Pebble meadows are a habitat type that occurs on and in the vicinity of the project site and appears to be uncommon. This community is not formally defined but was described in the previous analysis done for the project site and is recognized by the local professional community. Precise assessments of the plant community composition and the relative rarity of this habitat type have not been conducted, but it is possible that this community would meet TOWN OF TRUCKEE CANYON SPRINGS DRAFT EIR BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES 4.4-26 the criteria of a sensitive habitat. Plants observed in the pebble meadows on the project site include balsam-root (Balsamhoriza hookeri var. lanata), Parish’s yampah, knotweed (Polygonum californicum), a small rayless daisy (Erigeron sp.), Sierra onion (Allium campanulatum), one sided bluegrass (Poa secunda), Bridge’s gilia (Gilia leptalea), mountain violet (Viola purpurea) one spike oat grass (Danthonia unispicata), and death camas (Zigadenus venenosus var. vene- nosus). This habitat may also support a locally rare plant species, wild buck- wheat (Eriogonum ovalifolium).11 This community is within the area desig- nated as open space. b. Snags Snags are standing dead trees that provide important habitat features for many species, especially birds. These microhabitats provide feeding habitat for woodpeckers and nesting and roosting habitat for cavity nesters, including owls, woodpeckers, and bats. Approximately 72 snags occur on the project site. There are also a few large, overly mature trees in the area that could eventually die and become snags. The locations of snags were observed on the site and are shown in Figure 4.4-1. c. Aquatic Resources Aquatic resources on the project include the wet meadow community de- scribed above and several ephemeral and intermittent drainages. The hydrol- ogy of ephemeral drainages is typically driven by surface water (i.e. runoff), while intermittent drainages also include some component of subsurface dis- charge. In the Sierra Nevada, peak flows coincide with snowmelt and rain- storm events. Vegetation occurring in these seasonal creeks is typically lim- ited. However, emergent and riparian vegetation may occur along the shore- line of and adjacent to these communities, respectively. On the project site, ephemeral and intermittent drainage comprise 1.84 acres, of which, 0.65-acre supports wetlands. The aquatic resources on site are within the area designat- ed as open space. 11 Adrian Juncosa, PhD. Botany, President EcoSynthesis Scientific & Regulato- ry Services, personal communication with LSA staff, June 21, 2011. TOWN OF TRUCKEE CANYON SPRINGS DRAFT EIR BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES 4.4-27 d. Wildlife Corridors Wildlife corridors are used for both movement and migration purposes. Movement corridors are traditional routes used by wildlife to travel within their home range, and allow them to access food, cover, and water on a daily and seasonal basis. Movement corridors typically provide wildlife with un- disturbed cover and foraging habitat and are generally composed of several trails following topographic features such as drainages, ridgelines, and the bases of major topographic slopes or prominent hills in contiguous spans of forested, riparian, riverine, and woodland communities. The width of movement corridors varies depending on the topography. Migration corri- dors apply to wildlife that travel annually between ranges in the summer and winter. Movement and migration corridors are an essential element of home ranges of a variety of wildlife, including the Verdi subunit of the Loyalton- Truckee mule deer herd. This subunit is known to utilize the project site and surrounding area for migration purposes. Wildlife corridors are within the project area designated as open space. e. Special-Status Species and Sensitive Habitats LSA reviewed the specific habitats required by each species listed in Table 4.4-1, and the specific habitats and habitat conditions present on the project site. Based on this evaluation, LSA determined the likelihood of each species listed in Table 4.4-2 to occur on the project site. Special status species that were observed on the project site, or determined to potentially occur on the site based on availability of suitable habitat or other factors such as nearby occurrences (i.e. at least a “Low” potential for occurrence in Table 4.4-2), are discussed more fully below. Species determined unlikely to occur on the pro- ject site (based on these same factors, or negative survey result), are also doc- umented in Table 4.4-2, and are not discussed further in this report. i. Special-Status Wildlife The following special-status wildlife species listed in Table 4.4-2 were deter- mined to have the potential to occur on the project site. TOWN OF TRUCKEE CANYON SPRINGS DRAFT EIR BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES 4.4-28 a) Sierra Nevada Red Fox The Sierra Nevada red fox (Vulpes vulpes necator) is a State threatened species; it has no federal status. This species ranges from the Cascades down to the Sierra Nevadas and utilizes a variety of forested habitats in the subalpine and alpine regions usually interspersed with meadows, barren rocky areas, or al- pine fell fields.12 This species uses dense vegetation and rocky areas for cover and den sites. The project site does not contain densely vegetated or rocky areas that Sierra Nevada red fox typically utilize for cover and denning, but the forested habi- tats on the project could potentially provide foraging habitat for this species. However, the relatively high level of current human disturbance would likely discourage this species from using the project site. In addition, while there are CNDDB records for this species in the vicinity of the project site, the majority of the records for this species in the central part of the state are lo- cated much further to the west. Considering these factors, there is low poten- tial for Sierra Nevada red fox to occur on the project site. b) Bats (including Silver-haired Bat) Several bat species (e.g. Myotis sp.), including the silver-haired bat (La- sionycteris noctivagans), could potentially occur on the project site. Bat habi- tat consists of foraging habitat and both day and night roosts; certain day roosts are also used as maternity and winter roosts. Bats are nocturnal mam- mals, leaving day roost around dusk to forage. Day roosts are typically in enclosed areas that provide thermal protection for bats, such as caves, build- ings, crevices or openings in bridges, tree cavities, and sloughing bark. Night roosts may be located in more open areas (e.g. the underside of a bridge deck) where bats can rest while digesting their food. The majority of North Amer- ican bats feed on insects, which are captured on the wing using echolocation. 12 Zeiner D.C., W.F. Loudenslayer Jr., K.E., Mayer, and M.White, eds. 1988. California’s Wildlife Vol. III: Mammals. State of California: The Resource Agency. Department of Fish and Game. Sacramento, CA. TOWN OF TRUCKEE CANYON SPRINGS DRAFT EIR BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES 4.4-29 The Jeffrey pine community and snags on the project site provide potential habitat for tree-roosting bats, and bats could forage over the wet meadow and sagebrush habitats. Bats are most susceptible to disturbance at roost sites dur- ing the breeding season, due to presence of pregnant females and non-volant pups, and during the winter when many bats enter torpor. During the rest of the year, many bat species are migrating or otherwise less likely to be strong- ly tied to roost sites and, therefore, less susceptible to disturbance. The near- est CNDDB record for bats is for the silver-haired bat, approximately nine miles northwest of the project site, but the lack of records is likely due to a lack of survey effort rather than an indication of the distribution of bats. No bats or sign of bats (e.g. urine staining, guano) were observed during site sur- veys, but due to the presence of suitable roosting and foraging habitat, there is a moderate potential for bats to occur on the project site. c) Bald Eagle The bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) is a State endangered species. This species was previously federally threatened, but has been delisted. Bald eagles forage in large bodies of water including oceans, lakes, and rivers. This spe- cies feeds primarily on fish but will also eat small mammals, waterfowl, sea- birds, and carrion. Bald eagles build large stick nests in tall trees or on cliffs, usually within one mile of water. No suitable nesting or wintering habitat is present on the project site, but the potential exists for bald eagles to forage on the project site. The CNDDB includes one record for bald eagles in the vicinity of the project site, approxi- mately four miles to the north near the north shore of Boca Reservoir. No bald eagles were observed on or near the project site during previous surveys, but since marginal foraging habitat is present, there is a low potential for bald eagle to occur on the project site. d) Northern Goshawk The northern goshawk (Accipiter gentilis) is a State species of special concern; it has no federal status. This species nests in many of the mountain ranges in California including the North Coast Ranges, the Sierra Nevada, Klamath, TOWN OF TRUCKEE CANYON SPRINGS DRAFT EIR BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES 4.4-30 Cascade, and Warner Mountains, and prefers middle and higher elevations. The northern goshawk nests in coniferous forest, usually on north slopes near water, and is extremely defensive of nesting territory. The lack of north-facing slopes and permanent water precludes goshawks from nesting on the project site, but the Jeffrey pine community provides potential foraging habitat for this species. There are several CNDDB records for goshawk in the vicinity of the project site; the two nearest records are within five miles to the south near Martis Peak. Due to the lack of suitable nesting habitat, there is low potential for goshawk to occur on the project site. e) Willow Flycatcher The willow flycatcher (Empidonax traillii) is a State endangered species; it has no federal status. Willow flycatchers inhabit low, dense thickets of willows along the edges of wet meadows, ponds, or other slow moving or still water sources above 2,000-foot elevation. Willow flycatchers require the dense thickets for foraging and nesting. The plant communities on the project site do not provide suitable nesting habitat for willow flycatcher. However, suitable nesting habitat is located south of the project site at Buck Springs and to the west near Glenshire Lake, and this species could potentially occur on the project site. The nearest CNDDB record for willow flycatcher is approximately one mile northeast of the project on a densely wooded island in the Truckee River; two more CNDDB records are located approximately four miles southwest of the pro- ject site near the Martis Creek National Recreation Area. No willow fly- catchers were observed on the project site during any of the surveys. Since potential nesting habitat is present in the vicinity of the project site and this species is known from the local vicinity, there is a moderate potential for wil- low flycatcher to occur on the project site. TOWN OF TRUCKEE CANYON SPRINGS DRAFT EIR BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES 4.4-31 f) Yellow Warbler The yellow warbler (Dendroica petechia brewsteri) is a State species of special concern; it has no federal status. Yellow warblers typically nest in riparian habitats and prefer willows, cottonwoods, aspens, sycamores, and alders for both nesting and foraging, but will also nest in montane shrubbery. The project site provides marginal nesting habitat for yellow warbler and more suitable nesting habitat occurs south of the project site at Buck Springs and to the west near Glenshire Lake. The closest CNDDB record for yellow warbler is approximately eight miles to the west near Donner Lake. This species was not observed on the project site during any of the surveys. Since potential nesting habitat is present on the site and in the vicinity, and this species is known from the local vicinity, there is a moderate potential for yel- low warbler to occur on the project site. g) Nesting Birds In addition to the yellow warbler, discussed above, many bird species could potentially nest on the project site. Although many of these bird species do not have any special status designation, nesting birds, the nests, and eggs are protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and the State Fish and Game Code, as described above in Section A.1, Regulatory Framework, Special- Status Species. Suitable nesting habitat occurs in both the Jeffrey pine and sagebrush communities on the project site; snags also provide potential habi- tat for cavity-nesting birds. As a result, there is a high potential for birds to nest on the project site. h) Mule Deer The mule deer does not have a special status designation; however, as noted in their May 23, 2011 correspondence with the Town (included in Appendix B of this Draft EIR), the CDFG is particularly concerned about the impacts to habitat (movement) and migration corridors of the Verdi subunit of the Loy- alton-Truckee mule deer herd as a result of residential development and recre- TOWN OF TRUCKEE CANYON SPRINGS DRAFT EIR BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES 4.4-32 ational use in the project area.13 As noted in “Section B.2 Setting, Wildlife Corridors,” this mule deer herd is known to utilize the project site and sur- rounding area. In general, mule deer tend to confine their daily movements to discrete home ranges, using the same winter and summer home ranges in consecutive years. Mule deer disperse by moving beyond the home range to distances of up to five miles. This movement results in the establishment of a new home range. Seasonal migrations from higher elevations (summer ranges) to lower winter ranges are associated, in part, with decreasing temperatures, severe snow- storms, and snow depths that reduce mobility and food supply. Deep snows ultimately limit useable range to a fraction of the total range. The Verdi subunit of the Loyalton-Truckee mule deer herd migrates annually from Nevada along the Truckee River and disperses into the Martis Valley, located southeast of the Town, in the spring season. Critical fawning habitat for this deer herd occurs near Dry Lake, located approximately 1.5 miles south of the project site, and near Lookout Mountain, located approximately 7 miles southwest of the project site. After fawning, this deer herd leaves the fawning habitat and disperses into the Martis Valley to forage prior to migrat- ing back into Nevada. Portions of the deer herd must cross the Truckee Riv- er and Interstate 80 in order to disperse into the Martis Valley in the spring season and migrate back to Nevada in the autumn. According to CDFG in their 1988 Loyalton Truckee Deer Herd Plan, Update, the majority of the Can- yon Springs site is located within a major migration corridor of the Loyalton- Truckee deer herd.14 However, recent data suggests that only a few individu- als use the site as a corridor or for forage at any given time. 13 Jeff Drongesen, Environmental Program Manager, CDFG. Written corre- spondence to Denyelle Nishimori, Associate, Town of Truckee, May 23, 2011. 14 CDFG, 1988. Loyalton Truckee Deer Herd Plan, Update. CDFG, Region II, Rancho Cordova, CA. TOWN OF TRUCKEE CANYON SPRINGS DRAFT EIR BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES 4.4-33 In recent years, the deer population declines in the Northern/Central Sierra have been substantial.15 Deer populations may be at the lowest levels in the last 50 years and perhaps no one knows which factors are most important.16 The various causes for the reduction in deer populations are likely from habi- tat loss, fires, development, dams, vehicle collisions, and both grazing and overgrazing by introduced livestock. Winter range and key winter range have been negatively impacted by the Martis Creek fire, development, and livestock grazing. Historic overgrazing has led to the replacement of native grasses by sagebrush.17 Bitterbrush, found on the project site, is the most im- portant browse (graze) species, and fawn survival is closely correlated to browse production. Bitterbrush leader growth is correlated with annual pre- cipitation.18 Periods of dry weather can lead to both decreased browse pro- duction and more frequent fires, both of which are unpredictable and nega- tively impact the deer populations. The protection and enhancement of key mule deer winter, foraging, migrato- ry, and fawning habitat are vital to their long-term survival. As illustrated in the 2009 and 2011 mule deer reports, there is a high potential for this mule deer herd to utilize the project site and surrounding area for foraging, move- ment and migration. However, the critical fawning habitat for this deer herd occurs in two distinct locations approximately 1.5 miles south and approxi- mately 7 miles southwest of the project site; therefore, there is a low potential for fawning habitat for this mule deer herd on the project site. 15 CDFG, 1998. Report to the Fish and Game Commission: An Assessment of Mule and Black-tailed Deer Habitats and Populations in California 16 Personal communication between Jeff Finn, California Department of Fish and Game Biologist and staff at Foothill Associates, July 12, 2004. 17 U.S. Department of Agriculture, Tahoe National Forest, 1968. Habitat Management Plan: Loyalton-Truckee Deer Herd Unit. 18 U.S. Department of Agriculture, Tahoe National Forest, 1968. Habitat Management Plan: Loyalton-Truckee Deer Herd Unit. TOWN OF TRUCKEE CANYON SPRINGS DRAFT EIR BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES 4.4-34 ii. Special-Status Plants Of the special status plants in Table 4.4-1, 13 plants were determined to have the potential to occur on the project site based on the presence of suitable habitat. As described above in Section B.1, Methods, Field Surveys, LSA conducted focused survey for these special-status plants in June and July 2011, which is during the normal blooming period for these species when plants are most easily identifiable. In addition, for Plumas ivesia, since there are several records for this species near the project site, LSA monitored a nearby popula- tion of Plumas ivesia to determine when this species was blooming, and then scheduled the focused survey on the project site during the known 2011 blooming period for this species. Since the 2011 focused plant surveys on the project site were appropriately timed and resulted in negative findings, and considering that none of the spe- cial-status plants were observed during previous focused surveys of the project site in 2004 by Foothill Associates, Inc. and in 1990 by Eco-Analysts, these plant species are not expected to occur on the project site. a) Mosses Three mosses could potentially occur on the project site: Bolander’s bruchia (Bruchia bolanderi) – CNPS List 2, Broad-nerved hump moss (Meesia uliginosa) – CNPS List 2, and three-ranked hump moss (Meesia triquetra) – CNPS List 4. Bolander’s bruchia occurs in meadows and seeps; the broad-nerved and three- ranked hump moss occur in bogs and fens. The wet meadow and other wetlands areas on the project site, being seasonal, are only marginally suitable for these mosses, especially the broad-nerved and three-ranked hump moss which, as stated previously, occur in bogs and fens. Mosses were not included in the focused plant surveys conducted in June and July, 2011. Since only marginal habitat is present on the project site, there is a low potential for these three mosses to occur. TOWN OF TRUCKEE CANYON SPRINGS DRAFT EIR BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES 4.4-35 iii. Sensitive Habitats Sensitive habitats that occur on the project site include wet meadows, pebble meadows, and migration corridors. Wet meadows and pebble meadows are described above in Section B.2, Setting, Plant Communities. While a wildlife movement and migration corridor is not any one particular habitat such as a wet meadow or a pebble meadow, the Town recognizes wildlife movement and migration corridors as sensitive resources as identified in the Town of Truckee 2025 General Plan Conservation and Open Space Element Goal COS-4, Policies P4.1 and P4.2 described above in Section A.3, Regulatory Framework, Town of Truckee 2025 General Plan. As described above in Sec- tion B.2, Setting, Wildlife Corridors, the project site functions as a wildlife corridor for the Verdi subunit of the Loyalton-Truckee mule deer herd. These habitats are within the area designated as open space. f. Jurisdictional Waters Jurisdictional waters, as referenced in this document (and as discussed above in Section A.2, Regulatory Framework, Jurisdictional Waters), include wet- lands and non-wetland waters potentially subject to regulation by the ACOE as waters of the U.S. pursuant to Section 404 of the CWA and/or the RWQCB as waters of the State pursuant to Section 401 of the CWA or the PCWQCA. These areas, as well as any associated riparian vegetation, may also be subject to regulation by CDFG pursuant to Sections 1600-1616 of the CCR. Unless otherwise noted, waters of the State are identical to waters of the U.S. A total of 7.78 acres of jurisdictional waters occur on the project site, as de- scribed below and shown in Figure 4.4-2.19 These waters are within the area designated as open space. 19 These wetland boundaries were verified by the ACOE on October 11, 2011. The previous delineation was verified by the ACOE on June 7, 2005. The current delineation includes more riverine emergent wetlands and wet meadow than the pre- vious delineation. Match Line Martis Pea k Roa d LEGEND Biological Study Area Jurisdictional Waters Drainages (1.84 ac) Riverine Wetlands (0.065 ac) Wet Meadow (5.29 ac) SOURCE: Basemap - ESRI Imagery (2010); Mapping - Heal Environmental Consulting (2011) FIGURE 4.4-2 Canyon Springs Subdivision Jurisdictional Waters Match Line M a r ti s P e a k R o a d Glenshire Drive 0 200 400 FEET I:\DCV1101\GIS\juris_wats.mxd (8/22/11) Match Line Martis Peak Road LEGEND Biological Study Area Jurisdictional Waters Drainages (1.84 ac) Riverine Wetlands (0.065 ac) Wet Meadow (5.29 ac) SOURCE: Basemap - ESRI Imagery (2010); Mapping - Heal Environmental Consulting (2011) FIGURE 4.4-2 Canyon Springs Subdivision Jurisdictional Waters Match Line Martis Peak RoadGlenshire Drive 0 200 400 FEET I:\DCV1101\GIS\juris_wats.mxd (8/22/11) Source: LSA. Basemap - ESRI Imagery (2010); Mapping - Heal Environmental Consulting (2011) TOWN OF TRUCKEE CANYON SPRINGS DRAFT EIR BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES FIGURE 4.4-2 JURISDICTIONAL WATERS 3000 600 FeetNORTH TOWN OF TRUCKEE CANYON SPRINGS DRAFT EIR BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES 4.4-37 i. Wetlands HEC determined that 5.94 acres of wetlands are present on the project, con- sisting of 5.29 acres of wet meadow and 0.65-acre of riverine emergent wet- lands. These wetlands areas are primarily associated with the wet meadow habitat in the southwest and central portions of the project site; the riverine emergent wetlands occur in three small areas along the primary (intermittent) drainage in the central portion of the project site. ii. Non-wetland Waters HEC determined that 1.84-acre of non-wetland waters (“other waters”) are present on the project site. Non-wetland waters are associated with the nu- merous ephemeral and intermittent drainages on the project site. These drainages convey mostly surface runoff and snow melt, but also include some groundwater recharge. Based on the findings from the HEC delineation, included as Appendix D of this Draft EIR, the wetlands and non-wetland waters on the project site total 7.78 acres. These waters are tributary to the Truckee River and subject to regulation by the ACOE as waters of the U.S. These areas would also likely be subject to regulation by the RWQCB and CDFG. C. Standards of Significance The proposed project would have a significant impact with regard to biologi- cal resources if it would: ¤ Have a substantial adverse effect, either directly or through habitat modi- fications, on any species identified as a candidate, sensitive, or special sta- tus species in local or regional plans, policies, or regulations, or by the California Department of Fish and Game or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Ser- vice. ¤ Have a substantial adverse effect on any riparian habitat or other sensi- tive natural community identified in local or regional plans, policies, and TOWN OF TRUCKEE CANYON SPRINGS DRAFT EIR BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES 4.4-38 regulations or by the California Department of Fish and Game or US Fish and Wildlife Service. ¤ Have a substantial adverse effect on federally protected wetlands as de- fined by Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (including, but not limited to, marsh, vernal pool, coastal, etc.) through direct removal, filling, hy- drological interruption, or other means. ¤ Interfere substantially with the movement of any native resident or mi- gratory fish or wildlife species or with established native resident or mi- gratory wildlife corridors, or impede the use of native wildlife nursery sites. ¤ Conflict with any local policies or ordinances protecting biological re- sources, such as a tree preservation policy or ordinance. ¤ Conflict with the provisions of an adopted Habitat Conservation Plan, Natural Community Conservation Plan, or other approved local, region- al, or state habitat conservation plan. D. Impact Discussion This section provides a discussion of the project impacts to biological re- sources that may occur with implementation of the proposed project. The determination of impacts is based on the biological resources present, or rea- sonably likely to be present, on the project site as described herein. Features of the proposed project that could impact biological resources in- clude the proposed construction of 185 residential homes, a recreational use area, associated roadways (including four drainage crossings), the 4.5-mile publically accessible trail system comprised of 2-foot-wide soft surface trails, and 12-foot-wide gravel trails, which would also provide utility access, and water quality retention ponds. In addition, the project would also include the installation of approximately 2,600 linear feet of new off-site water mains ad- jacent to existing roadways in the Glenshire residential area located to the west of the project site. TOWN OF TRUCKEE CANYON SPRINGS DRAFT EIR BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES 4.4-39 For purposes of the impacts discussion, an average building footprint of 2,500 square feet per residential lot was used. After including the impact footprints from the internal roadways, publically accessible trail system, and retention basins, the project would result in the removal of approximately 27.92 acres of Jeffrey pine community, removal of approximately 7.25 acres of sagebrush community, and removal of approximately 26 snags. The 2-foot-wide soft-surface trails would be located primarily on existing trails or roads, and would not be improved where the alignment crosses the wet meadow or drainages; however, as shown on Figure 4.13-1 in Section 4.13, Public Services and Recreation, of this Draft EIR, footbridges would be placed at these crossings. The footbridges would be treated wood style bridg- es with single wood piles spaced about every 8 feet, and would be 4 to 5 feet wide with a low wood curb. The potential impacts to upland vegetation from this soft-surface trail feature are determined to be negligible. However, the installation of the wood piles would impact approximately 78 square feet of wetlands and non-wetland waters. An additional removal of approximately 76.68 acres of Jeffrey pine and sage- brush communities would occur within the residential and recreation area (in addition to the estimated 2,500-square-foot building envelopes), and would be subject to indirect impacts due to the increased human presence. On individ- ual housing lots, the introduction of pets, alteration of native vegetation, etc., would decrease the overall value of these habitats and could discourage wild- life from using these areas. Figures 4.4-3 and 4.4-4 show the proposed project overlaid on the plant com- munities mapping and jurisdictional waters, respectively. 1. Project Impacts The following section evaluates the project impacts by comparing the stand- ards of significance thresholds to the various project features. TOWN OF TRUCKEE CANYON SPRINGS DRAFT EIR BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES 4.4-40 a. Have a substantial adverse effect, either directly or through habitat modi- fications, on any species identified as a candidate, sensitive, or special sta- tus species in local or regional plans, policies, or regulations, or by the California Department of Fish and Game or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Ser- vice. Implementation of the project would result in removal of approximately 27.92 acres of Jeffrey pine community, approximately 7.25 acres of sagebrush community, and removal of approximately 26 snags. These communities provide potential habitat for Sierra Nevada red fox, goshawk, willow fly- catcher, and yellow warbler, and removal of this habitat could impact these species if they are present on the project site during construction. An addi- tional approximately 76.68 acres of these combined communities would occur within the residential and recreation lots, subject to increased human pres- ence, and could result in this habitat becoming less suitable for these species. Implementation of the proposed project would not directly impact the wet meadow community or the riverine emergent wetlands on the project site, which could potentially support Bolander’s bruchia, broad-nerved hump moss, and three-ranked hump moss. Therefore, impacts to these species would be less than significant. Impacts to Sierra Nevada red fox could include loss of potential foraging habi- tat and potentially direct impacts to individuals. Due to the vast amount of Jeffrey pine and sagebrush communities present in the region compared to the amount of these communities that would be removed or degraded on the project site, the loss of potential foraging habitat for Sierra Nevada red fox would be less than significant. There is also a very low potential for the pro- ject to impact denning habitat for Sierra Nevada red fox. The potential im- pacts to individuals or denning habitat would be significant. Impacts to northern goshawk and willow flycatcher could include loss of for- aging or migration habitat. Due to the vast areas of Jeffrey pine and sage- brush communities present in the region compared to the amount of these TOWN OF TRUCKEE CANYON SPRINGS DRAFT EIR BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES FIGURE 4.4-3 PLANT COMMUNITIES AND THE PROPOSED SITE PLAN Source: ESRI Imagery, 2010; Foothill Associates, 2004; Heal Environmental Consulting, 2011; LSA Associates, Inc., 2012. TOWN OF TRUCKEE CANYON SPRINGS DRAFT EIR BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES FIGURE 4.4-4 JURISDICTIONAL WATERS AND THE PROPOSED SITE PLAN Source: ESRI Imagery, 2010; Heal Environmental Consulting, 2011; LSA Associates, Inc., 2012. TOWN OF TRUCKEE CANYON SPRINGS DRAFT EIR BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES 4.4-43 communities that would be removed or degraded on the project site, the loss of habitat for these species would be less than significant. Impacts to yellow warbler could include loss of foraging habitat, and poten- tially disturbance of active nests. Due to the vast areas of Jeffrey pine and sagebrush communities present in the region compared to the amount of these communities that would be removed or degraded on the project site, and considering the project site provides only marginal nesting habitat, the loss of habitat for this species would be less than significant. However, the potential disturbance of active nests would be significant. b. Have a substantial adverse effect on any riparian habitat or other sensi- tive natural community identified in local or regional plans, policies, reg- ulations, or by the California Department of Fish and Game or US Fish and Wildlife Service. Sensitive plant communities on the project site include the wet meadow and pebble meadow. As previously discussed the Town recognizes wildlife movement and migration corridors as sensitive resources. Impacts to wildlife movement and migration corridors are discussed below under Threshold (d) below. Implementation of the proposed project would not result in removal of, or land development on the sensitive plant communities on the project site. The project could indirectly impact these communities through modification of the hydrology that supports these areas. Consistent with Town Develop- ment Code Section 18.38.040.A.2.a, all proposed building envelopes would be outside of the Town-required 50-foot setback from designated 100-year flood- plains for the two blue line waterways.20 For the proposed project, private housing lot boundaries are proposed within 50-feet of designated 100-year floodplain, but as recommended by CDFG, a minimum 50-foot setback to building envelopes would be maintained along the designated 100-year flood- 20 Town of Truckee Municipal Code, Title 18, Development Code, Chapter 18.38, Lake and River/Stream Corridor Development, Section 18.38.040.A.2.a – River and Stream Development Standards. TOWN OF TRUCKEE CANYON SPRINGS DRAFT EIR BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES 4.4-44 plain and all on-site ephemeral drainages. Furthermore, as recommended by CDFG, the project includes a 100-foot setback from private housing lots to the main drainage and with the exception of ten housing lots (122 to 131), which would have a minimum 50-foot setback from the building envelopes to Buck Spring, the project includes a 100-foot setback from private housing lots to all wet meadows.21 Through implementation of these setbacks, and by preserving 176.17 acres that primarily include the on-site wet meadow and pebble meadow communi- ties within the future Canyon Springs Home Owner’s Association-owned and maintained open space/common area, the project would avoid encroachment into the wet meadows. Accordingly, the project would minimize the effects to upland surface hydrology supporting the wet meadow community by lim- iting the area of impervious surface and associated runoff which can result in erosion, sedimentation, and increased pollutants. In addition, at the four lo- cations where vehicular roadways would cross drainages, the project’s clear- span bridges would avoid any impacts to the drainages and wet meadows lo- cated downstream of the crossings. Therefore, direct effects (i.e. removal) to sensitive plant communities resulting from the proposed project would not occur. The proposed project would result in minor indirect impacts to wet meadows through modification of surface hydrology that supports these areas due to the introduction of impervious surfaces; however, as a result of the project design features described above, this impact would be less than signifi- cant and no mitigation measures are required. c. Have a substantial adverse effect on federally protected wetlands as de- fined by Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (including, but not limited to, marsh, vernal pool, coastal, etc.) through direct removal, filling, hy- drological interruption, or other means. Approximately 5.94 acres of wetlands occur on the project site. Implementa- tion of the project would result in a minimal amount of fill being placed in wetlands on the project site during installation of the wood piles for the pe- 21 Jeff Drongesen, Environmental Program Manager, CDFG. Written corre- spondence to Denyelle Nishimori, Associate, Town of Truckee, May 23, 2011. TOWN OF TRUCKEE CANYON SPRINGS DRAFT EIR BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES 4.4-45 destrian trail footbridges. Of the nine footbridges shown in Figure 4.13-1 in Section 4.13, Public Services and Recreation, only three of the bridges would cross at the wet meadows, resulting in approximately 54 square feet of impact to wetlands. An additional five footbridges would cross ephemeral and in- termittent drainages, resulting in approximately 24 square feet of impact to non-wetland waters. One of the footbridges, located near the southeast cor- ner of the project, would not cross jurisdictional waters. At the four loca- tions where vehicular roadways would cross drainages, the project’s clear-span bridges would avoid any impacts to the drainages. In addition, as described above, the project includes a 100-foot setback from private housing lots to the main drainage and, with the exception of ten housing lots (122 to 131) which would have a minimum 50-foot setback from the building envelopes to Buck Spring, the project includes a 100-foot setback from private housing lots to all wet meadows. Therefore, direct impacts (e.g. removal) to wetlands from the proposed project would be limited to the piles from the footbridges. The impacts to wetlands, while minimal, would be significant. The project could indirectly impact these wetlands through modification of the hydrology that supports these areas. As described above, the project in- cludes a 100-foot setback from private housing lots to the main drainage and with the exception of ten housing lots (122 to 131), which would have a min- imum 50-foot setback from the building envelopes to Buck Spring; the project includes a 100-foot setback from private housing lots to all wet meadows. Furthermore, the project would preserve within the future Canyon Springs Home Owner’s Association Home Owner’s Association owned and main- tained open space/common area, the 176.17 acres that primarily include the on-site wetlands. Therefore, the project would minimize the effects to surface hydrology supporting these areas by limiting the area of impervious surface and associated runoff which can result in erosion, sedimentation, and in- creased pollutants. Still, the proposed project would result in minor indirect impacts to wetlands through modification of surface hydrology that supports these areas due to the introduction of impervious surfaces; however, as a re- sult of the project design features described above, this impact would be less than significant and no mitigation measures are required. TOWN OF TRUCKEE CANYON SPRINGS DRAFT EIR BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES 4.4-46 d. Interfere substantially with the movement of any native resident or mi- gratory fish or wildlife species or with established native resident or mi- gratory wildlife corridors, or impede the use of native wildlife nursery sites. The Jeffrey pine and sagebrush communities, including snags, provide poten- tial nesting habitat for numerous bird species. The removal of approximately 27.92 acres of Jeffrey pine community and approximately 7.25 acres of sage- brush community, including removal of approximately 26 snags, could result in disturbance to active nests. This impact would be significant. The snags and mature trees in the Jeffrey pine community on the project site provide potential roost sites for bats. The removal of approximately 26 snags and approximately 27.92 acres of the on-site Jeffrey pine community could result in the loss of bat roosts. In addition, approximately 76.68 acres of these combined communities would occur within the proposed residential lots and recreation area subject to increased human presence, and could result in this habitat becoming less suitable for bats. This impact would be significant. Bats could also forage over the wet meadow and sagebrush habitat on the pro- ject site. Since the project would not result in the loss of wet meadow habitat and would result in only minimal loss of sagebrush habitat compared the quantity of this habitat present in the region, impacts to foraging habitat for bats would be less than significant. As discussed in the various reports that have been prepared for the project site, it is well documented that the Verdi subunit of the Loyalton-Truckee mule deer herd utilize the project site and surrounding area for foraging movement, migration, and the critical fawning habitat for this deer herd oc- curs approximately 1.5 miles south and approximately seven miles southwest of the project site. Furthermore, there is no direct evidence that deer use the site for critical winter habitat or that known major migratory routes (i.e. mi- gration in substantial numbers) for this mule deer herd or other important migratory animals in the region exist within the project site. While the CDFG, in cooperation with NDOW, began conducting long-range studies on this mule deer herd in the fall of 2009, the first set of data will not be available TOWN OF TRUCKEE CANYON SPRINGS DRAFT EIR BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES 4.4-47 until 2012 (as of this writing, the data has been collected but not yet com- piled) and the results of their study determining how this mule deer herd use the project site is unknown.22 According to the CDFG, impacts resulting from residential development and recreational use are currently the biggest concern for the future of this deer herd.23 Accordingly, implementation of the proposed project could result in a disturbance to the Verdi subunit of the Loyalton-Truckee mule deer herd. The following disturbances would result in a potentially significant impact: ¤ Temporary disturbances in the form of noise, dust, etc. during project construction; ¤ The direct loss of habitat for movement, foraging and migration as it is converted to other land uses; and ¤ Long-term disturbances in the form of increased human activity, vehicu- lar and bicycle traffic, equestrian use, and the presence of dogs. Land development related construction impacts would be phased and most construction phases would last approximately 18 to 24 months, but some may be as long as 24 to 30 months. While some phases may be under construction simultaneously, the entire project site would not be under construction at the same time. While primarily corridor linear-type improvements, project infra- structure construction, including approximately 15,976 linear feet of road- way, on-site utilities, retention ponds and 2,610 linear feet of off-site utilities installation, would span an eight-year period. In general, all construction staging would occur within the project boundaries with the exception of utili- ties upgrades per the Truckee-Donner Public Utilities District (water) re- quirements. Subsequent to site preparation, buildout of the future homes is anticipated to take 20 or more years. There would be adequate undisturbed areas for wildlife throughout the 20-year buildout period for project comple- 22 Sara Holm, Associate Wildlife Biologist (Nevada and Placer County), CA Dept of Fish & Game. Written correspondence to Denyelle Nishimori, Associate, Town of Truckee, July 26, 2010. 23 Jeff Drongesen, Environmental Program Manager, CDFG. Written corre- spondence to Denyelle Nishimori, Associate, Town of Truckee, May 23, 2011. TOWN OF TRUCKEE CANYON SPRINGS DRAFT EIR BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES 4.4-48 tion; therefore, the prolonged construction impacts to wildlife would be less than significant and no mitigation measures are required. The proposed project includes design features that would minimize impacts to the wildlife corridors. The proposed project would implement Rural Sub- urban clustered development consistent with Town of Truckee 2025 General Plan Land Use Policy P7.3 and includes the preservation of approximately 176 acres of public open space and natural habitat (which equals about 60 per- cent of the total project site). The proposed open space would link to open space adjacent to the project site and would be preserved within the future Canyon Springs Home Owner’s Association-owned and maintained open space/common area, to provide a permanent wildlife corridor free of devel- opment. The project provides minimum 50-foot setbacks to the 100-year floodplains of on-site drainages to avoid encroachment into the wildlife corridors on the project site and includes the construction of clear-span bridges at the four drainage crossings. Bridges would be built to ensure that the undercrossing is of sufficient height to allow for safe passage of wildlife. The project would restore deteriorated natural areas on the project site by replanting native Jeffery pine saplings on the approximately 7-acre portion of the project site that was the location of a previous fire. In addition, native perennial grasses and bitterbrush (high quality foraging) would be planted on the areas damaged by unauthorized public uses of the property (e.g. off-road vehicle and motorcycles). Both restoration efforts would improve the open space habitat for the mule deer herd, as well as other wildlife. Vehicular roadways would not exceed maximum speed design of 25 miles per hour. Roadway signage for deer crossing warnings would be posted on-site. Furthermore, signage would provide users of the proposed 4.5-mile publically accessible trail network with educational information regarding the qualities of the natural characteristics of the project site—both biological and ecologi- cal. Trail signage would include trail use protocol to ensure user safety and TOWN OF TRUCKEE CANYON SPRINGS DRAFT EIR BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES 4.4-49 the protection of wildlife and the natural habitat. Flora and fauna education, seasonal condition warnings, and other relevant information depending on the trail would be included. Equestrian uses would not be expected to impact biological resources, as horses do not pose a threat to deer. Other trail use protocol would include informing the public that dogs must be under both immediate voice and visual control (but in support of wildlife, dog leashes are recommended May through October), and that no motorized use of the trails by off-road vehicles (e.g. dirt bikes and snowmobiles) would be permitted. Dogs under voice and visual control would not be expected to impact on-site deer or create a dog-at-large-issue. See Figure 4.13-1 in Section 4.13 of this Draft EIR for a representative example of trail signs proposed for the project site. All exterior lighting would be low level illumination and would be shielded (downward facing) to minimize light spill, glare and reflection, and to main- tain dark skies. Therefore, project impacts to the foraging, movement and the critical fawning habitat of the Verdi subunit of the Loyalton-Truckee mule would be less than significant and no mitigation measures are required. e. Conflict with any local policies or ordinances protecting biological re- sources, such as a tree preservation policy or ordinance. The Town of Truckee 2025 General Plan Land Use, Community Character and Conservation and Open Space Elements includes goals and associated policies that are applicable to biological resources, as described above in Section A.3, Regulatory Framework, Town of Truckee 2025 General Plan. The goals reflect the means by which the built environment should protect significant wildlife habitat and sensitive biological resources, and maintain biodiversity, respec- tively. The project site supports wildlife habitat and corridors, and sensitive biologi- cal resources such as wet meadows and pebble meadows. The project site also supports a myriad of wildlife and plant species as described throughout this TOWN OF TRUCKEE CANYON SPRINGS DRAFT EIR BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES 4.4-50 section. Implementation of the proposed project could impact the biological resources on the project site and reduce biodiversity. As described in Chap- ter 3, Project Description, of this Draft EIR, one of the objectives of the pro- ject is to “Protect open space areas that serve as native habitat and wildlife corridors.” The project aims to integrate residential and recreation compo- nents with surrounding residential developments on a site comprised of in- formal trails, native habitat, and wildlife resources. The project would in- clude approximately 176 acres, or 60 percent of the 290-acre site, of connected public open space and natural habitat. The public open space would be pre- served within the future Canyon Springs Home Owner’s Association-owned and maintained open space/common area. The residential lots would be lo- cated to the north and south of the proposed public open space that would serve as a wildlife corridor. Housing lots are designed to meet the Rural Suburban cluster requirements (i.e. groupings of 10 to 30 dwellings separated by connected open space areas or greenways on Residential [0.5 to 1 units/acre] land use designations pe- ripheral to Town core, but generally not on sites within the rural fringe). The housing lots would connect with the project’s 4.5-mile publically accessi- ble trail system and surrounding open space while providing setback buffers between future homes and environmentally-sensitive areas such as wet mead- ows and ephemeral drainages. In addition, the proposed open space would connect to existing open space areas adjacent to the project site providing a contiguous open space corridor. Therefore, impacts related to project con- sistency with applicable Town of Truckee 2025 General Plan goals and policies associated with the protection of biological resources and loss of biodiversity and would be less than significant and no mitigation measures are required. f. Conflict with the provisions of an adopted Habitat Conservation Plan, Natural Community Conservation Plan, or other approved local, region- al, or state habitat conservation plan. There are no Habitat Conservation Plans, Natural Community Conservation Plans, or other approved local, regional, or State habitat conservation plans that have jurisdiction of the project site. Therefore, conflicts to these types of TOWN OF TRUCKEE CANYON SPRINGS DRAFT EIR BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES 4.4-51 plans from implementation of the proposed project would not occur and no mitigation measures are required. 2. Cumulative Impacts This section analyzes potential impacts to biological resources that could oc- cur from a combination of the project with the Town buildout identified in the Town of Truckee 2025 General Plan and reasonably foreseeable projects in the surrounding area. The geographic scope of this analysis is taken as the Town of Truckee sphere of influence (SOI), as defined in the Town of Truckee 2025 General Plan and reasonably foreseeable projects in the surrounding ar- ea. Therefore, a cumulative impact would be considered potentially signifi- cant if, taken together with past, present, and reasonably foreseeable projects in the Town of Truckee SOI and the Boca Quarry project in Nevada County, the project would contribute to the ongoing loss of natural, undisturbed open space in the region resulting in a decline of biological resources and species diversity. The encroachment of development areas into natural, relatively undisturbed open space is a continual and direct threat to wildlife species in the vicinity as it removes habitat for plant species, increases fragmentation of open space in the region effecting wildlife dispersal, and results in an increased human pres- ence leading to the degradation of natural undisturbed habitats. Cumulative disruptions to the wildlife movement and migration in the Truckee region include Interstate 80, other roadways, reservoirs and dams, fencing, and fu- ture and existing development, including the Glenshire residential area. Buildout of the Town of Truckee 2025 General Plan, which includes all lands within the SOI, could impact special-status plant and animal species, sensitive natural communities, jurisdictional waters, and wildlife movement. Accord- ingly, the project when considered with the Town of Truckee 2025 General Plan buildout and the Boca Quarry project in Nevada County could result in a significant cumulative impact to biological resources. The Town of Truckee 2025 General Plan includes goals, policies, and actions to reduce potential impacts to these biological resources to less-than-significant TOWN OF TRUCKEE CANYON SPRINGS DRAFT EIR BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES 4.4-52 levels. The analysis of the project’s impacts to biological resources concluded that implementation of the Mitigation Measures BIO-1, BIO-2, and BIO-3 in addition to the proposed project’s design features (described above) would ensure the project-related impacts to the natural habitats that have an excep- tionally high value for wildlife species, providing water, thermal cover, wild- life corridors, and diverse nesting and feeding opportunities would be less than significant. Impacts to biological resources from the Boca Quarry project to the north of the project site would be limited to removal of native vegetation during min- ing activities that is used by local and migrating (e.g. Loyalton-Truckee mule deer herd) wildlife. These impacts would be adequately addressed by imple- menting a concurrent revegetation strategy that would ensure that revegeta- tion of mined areas would occur at the same time as the start of mining in new areas, thereby reducing the length of time that previously mined lands would be unvegetated and unusable by wildlife.24 However, while buildout of the Town of Truckee 2025 General Plan would create significant and unavoidable cumulative impacts on biological resources in the planning area,25 the project’s contribution to this significant impact is not considered cumulatively considerable because the project includes mitiga- tion measures and design features (described above) that would ensure the project-related impacts to the natural habitats that have an exceptionally high value for wildlife species would be less than significant. Therefore, cumulative impacts identified with project implementation would be less than significant and additional mitigation measures are required. 24 Nevada County Community Development Agency, 2010. Boca Quarry Ini- tial Study. 25 Town of Truckee 2025 General Plan EIR, Chapter 4.3, Biological Resources, Section D, Cumulative Impact Discussion, p. 4.3-22. TOWN OF TRUCKEE CANYON SPRINGS DRAFT EIR BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES 4.4-53 3. Impacts and Mitigation Measures This section provides a summary discussion of the project impacts to biologi- cal resources, and appropriate mitigation measures to reduce impacts to levels that are less than significant. Impact BIO-1: Removal of Jeffrey pine and sagebrush habitat could poten- tially impact Sierra Nevada red foxes if suitable den sites occur on the project site. Mitigation Measure BIO-1: Prior to the start of construction for each phase of development, a qualified biologist selected by the Town of Truckee shall survey the project site to determine if any burrows or oth- er den sites suitable for use by Sierra Nevada red fox are present. The se- lected surveyor shall coordinate with CDFG to determine an acceptable survey methodology. If no evidence of this species is found during field surveys, no further measures are required. If an active Sierra Nevada red fox den is identified on the project site, CDFG shall be contacted to determine how to proceed. It may be possi- ble to proceed with construction with implementation of appropriate avoidance and minimization measures (e.g. no-disturbance buffers, sea- sonal work windows) to prevent incidental take of Sierra Nevada red fox. If incidental take cannot be prevented, it may be necessary to obtain an incidental take permit from CDFG, pursuant to Section 2081 of CESA, before construction may proceed. Significance After Mitigation: Less than significant. Impact BIO-2: Removal of Jeffrey pine and sagebrush habitat could poten- tially disturb nesting birds, including yellow warblers, if this species in nest- ing on the project site. Mitigation Measure BIO-2: The following shall be implemented to miti- gate potential impacts to nesting yellow warblers. These measures shall apply to activities associated with construction of infrastructure (e.g., roads, utilities) and also to future home construction. TOWN OF TRUCKEE CANYON SPRINGS DRAFT EIR BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES 4.4-54 ¤ All trees, shrubs, and other vegetation that is to be removed within the proposed work area shall be removed during the non-nesting sea- son, between September 16 and February 28. ¤ If vegetation removal is not possible during the non-nesting season, a qualified biologist selected by the Town of Truckee shall survey the proposed work area and lands within a 500-foot radius (this area may be decreased due to property access constraints) for nesting birds. The nesting survey shall be conducted within 14 days prior to the start of construction. ¤ If no active nests are discovered, work can proceed. ¤ If an active nest is discovered, the project proponent shall implement one of the following two approaches: Ÿ A no-disturbance buffer shall be established around the active nest(s) using orange construction fencing (or equivalent). For raptors, the buffer shall be established at a 500-foot radius; for non-raptors, the buffer shall be established at a 100-foot radius. The fencing marking the buffer shall be maintained in place until construction is com- plete, the young have fledged, or the nest fails (the latter two shall be determined by a qualified biologist); or Ÿ A qualified biologist selected by the Town of Truckee shall evaluate the potential for the proposed project to disturb nesting activities. The evaluation criteria shall include, but are not limited to, the lo- cation/orientation of the nest in the nest tree, the distance of the nest from the proposed work area, and line of sight between the nest and the proposed work area. CDFG shall be contacted to re- view the evaluation and determine if the project can proceed with- out adversely affecting nesting activities. If work is allowed to pro- ceed, at a minimum, a qualified biologist shall be on-site during the start of construction activities during the nesting season to monitor nesting activity. The monitor shall have the authority to stop work if it is determined the project is adversely affecting nesting activities. TOWN OF TRUCKEE CANYON SPRINGS DRAFT EIR BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES 4.4-55 ¤ The above measures shall be repeated, as necessary, in accordance with the phasing of project construction. Significance After Mitigation: Less than significant. Impact BIO-3: Installation of the wood piles for the pedestrian trail foot- bridges would impact wetlands and non-wetland waters present on the project site. Mitigation Measure BIO-3: The following shall be implemented to miti- gate potential impacts to wetlands and non-wetland waters. ¤ Wetlands and non-wetland waters permanently impacted during con- struction shall be mitigated by one of the following methods or by us- ing a combination of the methods. Ÿ Preservation, creation, and/or restoration of the impacted resources at a minimum ratio of 2:1 (creation could potentially be implement- ed at a 1:1 ratio if completed and functional prior to the start of construction). Ÿ Purchase of credits at an approved mitigation bank at a minimum 1:1 mitigation ratio. Ÿ Payment of in-lieu fees per the current ACOE, Sacramento District in-lieu fee schedule. ¤ All mitigation lands shall be protected in perpetuity through re- cordation of a conservation easement or equivalent method. ¤ Prior to issuance of a grading permit or other authorization to proceed with project construction, the project proponent shall obtain any reg- ulatory permits that are required from the Army Corps of Engineers, Regional Water Quality Control Board, and/or California Depart- ment of Fish and Game. ¤ The project proponent shall obtain a Minor Use Permit pursuant to Section 18.46.040.C of the Town of Truckee Development Code. TOWN OF TRUCKEE CANYON SPRINGS DRAFT EIR BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES 4.4-56 Significance After Mitigation: Less than significant. Impact BIO-4: Removal of Jeffrey pine habitat and snags could potentially disturb roosting bats if active roosts are present on the project site. Mitigation Measure BIO-4: The following shall be implemented to miti- gate potential impacts to roosting bats. All snags and potential roost trees (i.e. 20 inches in diameter at breast height (dbh) or greater) within the project impact area shall be removed between September 1 and Octo- ber 14, or between February 16 and April 14. Removal of trees during these periods would avoid impacts to any bats occurring on the project site during the normal breeding season (April 15 to August 30) and win- ter torpor (October 15 to February 15). Removal shall occur as follows: ¤ At least two days prior to removal of snags and potential roost trees, construction activities shall commence in the vicinity of the potential roost(s) to expose bats potentially using the roosts to the sounds and vibrations of equipment with the intention of causing the bats to leave the roost, thus avoiding potential injury when the roost is removed. ¤ Equipment and vehicles shall not be operated under potential roost trees that would not be removed to prevent exhaust fumes from filling roost cavities. Alternatively, all potential roost trees within the project impact area shall be surveyed by a qualified biologist to determine if any trees can be excluded as suitable bat roosts due to the lack of suitable structural characteristics. If any trees can be excluded as bat roosts, removal of these trees would not be subject to the seasonal restrictions described above. The above measures shall be repeated, as necessary, in accordance with the phasing of project construction. Significance After Mitigation: Less than significant.