Appendix D.2 - Utility Field Biological MemoAppendix D.2
Utility Field Biological
Memo
MBI, 2021
Travertine SPA
Draft EIR
SCH# 201811023
Technical Appendices
October 2023
Michael Baker
INTERNATIONAL
We Make a Difference
July 22, 2022 JN 182517
TRG LAND, INC.
Attn: Mark Rogers
898 Production Place
Newport Beach, California 92663
SUBJECT: Results of a Biological Resources Due Diligence Assessment for the Travertine Land
Development Project, Proposed Utility Field Parcels — City of La Quinta, Riverside
County, California
Dear Mr. Rogers:
Michael Baker International (Michael Baker) has prepared this report to document the results of a biological
resources assessment for the proposed utility field parcels associated with the Travertine Land Development
Project, located in the City of La Quinta, Riverside County, California. Michael Baker conducted a thorough
desktop literature review to assess the potential for special -status plant and wildlife species' that have been
documented or that are likely to occur on or within the immediate vicinity of the project site. No field
surveys were conducted in support of this specific effort. This report provides an assessment of the known
occurrences of the special -status plant and wildlife species that were identified in the California Department
of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) California Natural Diversity Database RareFind 5 (CNDDB; CDFW 2022a),
the California Native Plant Society (CNPS) Inventory of Rare Plants (IRP; CNPS 2022), the U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service (USFWS) Information for Planning and Consultation Project Planning Tool (IPaC;
USFWS 2022a), and other databases as potentially occurring in the vicinity of the project site. References
are provided in Attachment A.
Project Location
The proposed utility field parcels consist of undeveloped and agricultural lands within Sections 32, 33,
and 34, Township 6 South, Range 7 East, and Sections 3, 4, and 5, Township 7 South, Range 7 East, as
depicted on the U.S. Geological Survey 7.5 -minute quadrangle for Martinez Mountain, California. The
project site consists of 26 parcels located in the City of La Quinta, Riverside County, California. These 26
parcels are potential candidates for offsite Coachella Valley Water District (CVWD) water well locations
As used in this report, "special -status" refers to plant and wildlife species that are federally/State listed, proposed, or candidates;
plant species that have been designated a California Rare Plant Rank species by the California Native Plant Society; wildlife
species that are designated by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife as Fully Protected, Species of Special Concern, or
Watch List species; State/locally rare vegetation communities; and species that warrant protection under local or regional
preservation policies.
MBAKERINTL.COM
5 Hutton Centre Drive, Suite 5001 Santa Ana, CA 92707
Office: 949.47235051 Fax: 949.472.83731 mbakerintl.com
and include a two and a half -acre Imperial Irrigation District (IID) substation intended to provide services
to the proposed Travertine Land Development Project. The well site parcels were divided into two
sections: the northern portion and the southern portion. The northern portion occurs approximately one
mile northeast of the main project site and includes parcels on lands located in Sections 25 Township 6
South, Range 7 East. The southern portion occurs approximately one mile east of the proposed Travertine
Land Development Project and includes parcels on lands located in Sections 35 and 36, Township 6
South, Range 7 East. Combined, these parcels total approximately 565 acres. The general location of the
proposed utility field parcels are depicted in Figure 1 Regional Vicinity Map and Figure 2 Project
Location Map in Attachment B. Results of the desktop review are specific to the individual parcels that
have been identified as potential utility field sites.
Methodology
Michael Baker conducted thorough literature reviews and records searches to determine which special -
status biological resources have the potential to occur on or within the general vicinity of the project site.
Previous special -status plant and wildlife species occurrence records within the USGS Indio, Martinez
Mountain, Valerie, and La Quinta California 7.5 -minute quadrangles were researched through a query of
the CNDDB (CDFW 2022a) and IRP (CNPS 2022), and for the project region through a review of IPaC
(USFWS 2022a).
The current regulatory/conservation status of special -status plant and wildlife species was verified through
lists and resources provided by the CDFW, specifically the Special Animals List (CDFW 2022b), Special
Vascular Plants, Bryophytes, and Lichens List (CDFW 2022c), State and Federally Listed Endangered and
Threatened Animals of California (CDFW 2022d), and State and Federally Listed Endangered,
Threatened, and Rare Plants of California (CDFW 2022e). USFWS-designated Critical Habitat for species
listed under the federal Endangered Species Act (FESA) was reviewed online via the USFWS Critical
Habitat Mapper portal (USFWS 2022b). In addition, Michael Baker reviewed a Biological Technical Report
prepared by Glenn Lukos and Associates (GLA report) (2022) for the Travertine Land Development
Project, which included a cursory review of the offsite parcels assessed in this report. The results of a desk-
top review conducted by Michael Baker (2021) for potential wetlands and other waters occurring within
the utility field parcels and their regulatory status are also presented in this report. Other resources reviewed
to provide general context on existing conditions within the offsite parcels included Google Earth Pro
Historical Aerial Imagery from 1985 to current (Google, Inc. 2022) and the Calflora Database (Calflora
2022).
Summary of Regulations
This section discusses relevant laws, policies, and ordinances that may pose constraints to any future
development within the project site on a holistic level. It should be noted that this section is not intended to
be exhaustive and that additional policies may apply for proposed development on the utility field parcels.
Relevant laws and policies related to potential jurisdictional aquatic resources (i.e., Clean Water Act,
Proposed Utility Field Parcels, Travertine Land Development Project Biological Resources Due Diligence Assessment
2
Porter -Cologne Water Quality Control Act) occurring within the utility field parcels has been reviewed
separately by Michael Baker (2021) and is not included and evaluated in this report.
Federal
Federal Endangered Species Act of 1973
As defined within the FESA, an endangered species is any animal or plant listed by regulation as being in
danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its geographical range. A threatened species
is any animal or plant that is likely to become endangered within the foreseeable future throughout all or a
significant portion of its geographical range. Without a special permit, federal law prohibits the "take" of
any individuals or habitat of federally listed species. Under Section 9 of the FESA, take is defined as
"harass, harm, pursue, hunt, shoot, wound, kill, trap, capture, or collect or attempt to engage in any such
conduct." The term "harm" has been clarified to include "any act which actually kills or injures fish or
wildlife and emphasizes that such acts may include significant habitat modification or degradation that
significantly impairs essential behavioral patterns of fish or wildlife." Enforcement of FESA is administered
by the USFWS.
Under the definition used by the FESA, "Critical Habitat" refers to specific areas within the geographical
range of a species that were occupied at the time it was listed that contain the physical or biological features
that are essential to the survival and eventual recovery of that species and that may require special
management considerations or protection, regardless of whether the species is still extant in the area. Areas
that were not known to be occupied at the time a species was listed can also be designated as Critical Habitat
if they contain one or more of the physical or biological features that are essential to that species'
conservation and if the occupied areas are inadequate to ensure the species' recovery. If a project may result
in take or adverse modification to a species' designated Critical Habitat and the project has a federal nexus,
the project proponent may be required to provide suitable mitigation. Projects with a federal nexus may
include projects that occur on federal lands, require federal permits (e.g., federal Clean Water Act [CWA]
Section 404 permit), or receive any federal oversight or funding. If there is a federal nexus, then the federal
agency that is responsible for providing funds or permits would be required to consult with the USFWS
under the FESA.
Whenever federal agencies authorize, fund, or carry out actions that may adversely modify or destroy
Critical Habitat, they must consult with USFWS under Section 7 of the FESA. The designation of Critical
Habitat does not affect private landowners, unless a project they are proposing uses federal funds, or
requires federal authorization or permits (i.e., funding from the federal Highway Administration or a permit
from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers [USACE]).
Migratory Bird Treaty Act
Pursuant to the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) (16 U.S. Government Code [USC] 703) of
1918, as amended in 1972, federal law prohibits the taking of migratory birds or their nests or eggs (16
USC 703; 50 CFR 10, 21). The statute states:
Proposed Utility Field Parcels, Travertine Land Development Project Biological Resources Due Diligence Assessment
3
"Unless and except as permitted by regulations made as hereinafter provided in this subchapter, it shall be
unlawful at any time, by any means or in any manner, to pursue, hunt, take, capture, kill, attempt to take,
capture, or kill...any migratory bird, any part, nest, or egg of any such bird...included in the terms of the
[Migratory Bird] conventions..."
The MBTA covers the taking of any nests or eggs of migratory birds, except as allowed by permit pursuant
to 50 CFR, Part 21. Disturbances causing nest abandonment and/or loss of reproductive effort (i.e., killing
or abandonment of eggs or young) may also be considered a "take." This regulation seeks to protect
migratory birds and active nests.
In 1972, the MBTA was amended to include protection for migratory birds of prey (e.g., raptors). Six
families of raptors occurring in North America were included in the amendment: Accipitridae (kites, hawks,
and eagles); Cathartidae (New World vultures); Falconidae (falcons and caracaras); Pandionidae (ospreys);
Strigidae (typical owls); and Tytonidae (barn owls). The provisions of the 1972 amendment to the MBTA
protects all species and subspecies of the families listed above. The MBTA protects over 800 species
including geese, ducks, shorebirds, raptors, songbirds and many relatively common species.
State
California Environmental Quality Act
The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) provides for the protection of the environment within
the State of California by establishing State policy to prevent significant, avoidable damage to the
environment through the use of alternatives or mitigation measures for projects. It applies to actions directly
undertaken, financed, or permitted by State lead agencies. If a project is determined to be subject to CEQA,
the lead agency will be required to conduct an Initial Study (IS); if the IS determines that the project may
have significant impacts on the environment, the lead agency will subsequently be required to write an
Environmental Impact Report (EIR). A finding of non-significant effects will require either a Negative
Declaration or a Mitigated Negative Declaration instead of an EIR. Section 15380 of the CEQA Guidelines
independently defines "endangered" species as those whose survival and reproduction in the wild are in
immediate jeopardy, while "rare" species are defined as those who are in such low numbers that they could
become endangered if their environment worsens.
California Endangered Species Act
In addition to federal laws, the State of California has its own California Endangered Species Act (CESA),
enforced by the CDFW. The CESA program maintains a separate listing of species beyond the FESA,
although the provisions of each act are similar.
State -listed threatened and endangered species are protected under provisions of the CESA. Activities that
may result in "take" of individuals (defined in CESA as; "hunt, pursue, catch, capture, or kill, or attempt to
hunt, pursue, catch, capture, or kill") are regulated by CDFW. Habitat degradation or modification is not
included in the definition of "take" under CESA. Nonetheless, CDFW has interpreted "take" to include the
Proposed Utility Field Parcels, Travertine Land Development Project Biological Resources Due Diligence Assessment
4
destruction of nesting, denning, or foraging habitat necessary to maintain a viable breeding population of
protected species.
The State of California considers an endangered species as one whose prospects of survival and
reproduction are in immediate jeopardy. A threatened species is considered as one present in such small
numbers throughout its range that it is likely to become an endangered species in the near future in the
absence of special protection or management. A candidate species is one that potentially qualifies for listing
under CESA, pending a formal review and assessment of available data; these species are afforded all of
the same legal protections as if they were already listed. A rare species is one that is considered present in
such small numbers throughout its range that it may become endangered if its present environment worsens.
State threatened, endangered, and candidate species are fully protected against take, as defined above.
The CDFW has also produced a species of special concern list to serve as a species watch list. Species on
this list are either of limited distribution or their habitats have been reduced substantially, such that a threat
to their populations may be imminent. Species of special concern may receive special attention during
environmental review, but they do not have formal statutory protection. At the federal level, USFWS also
uses the label "species of concern" as an informal term that refers to species which might be in need of
concentrated conservation actions.
As the species of concern designated by USFWS do not receive formal legal protection, the use of the term
does not necessarily ensure that the species will be proposed for listing as a threatened or endangered
species.
California Fish and Game Code (Sections 3503, 3503.5, 3511, and 3513)
The CDFW administers the California Fish and Game Code (CFGC). There are particular sections of the
CFGC that are applicable to natural resource management. For example, Section 3503 makes it unlawful
to destroy any birds' nest or any birds' eggs that are protected under the MBTA. Further, any birds in the
orders Falconiformes or Strigiformes (Birds of Prey), such as hawks, eagles, and owls, are protected under
Section 3503.5 which makes it unlawful to take, possess, or destroy their nest or eggs. A consultation with
CDFW may be required prior to the removal of any bird of prey nest that may occur on a project site.
Section 3511 lists fully protected bird species, where the CDFW is unable to authorize the issuance of
permits or licenses to take these species. Pertinent species that are State fully protected include golden eagle
(Aquila chrysaetos) and white-tailed kite (Elanus leucurus). In addition, Section 3513 makes it unlawful to
take or possess any migratory nongame bird as designated in the MBTA or any part of such migratory
nongame bird except as provided by rules and regulations adopted by the Secretary of the Interior under
provisions of the MBTA.
Native Plant Protection Act
Sections 1900-1913 of the CFGC were developed to preserve, protect, and enhance Rare and Endangered
plants in the State of California. The act requires all State agencies to use their authority to carry out
programs to conserve Endangered and Rare native plants. Provisions of the Native Plant Protection Act
prohibit the taking of listed plants from the wild and require notification of the CDFW at least ten days in
Proposed Utility Field Parcels, Travertine Land Development Project Biological Resources Due Diligence Assessment
5
advance of any change in land use which would adversely impact listed plants. This allows the CDFW to
salvage listed plant species that would otherwise be destroyed.
Regional Policies and Ordinances
Coachella Valley Multi -Species Habitat Conservation Plan (CVMSHCP)
The proposed utility field parcels occur within the boundaries of the CVMSHCP, but do not coincide with
any Conservation Area. Since the proposed project would not result in impacts to a Conservation Area, the
Joint Project Review (JPR) process, whereby the Coachella Valley Conservation Commission (CVCC) and
Wildlife Agencies (USFWS and CDFW) review the proposed project to ensure consistency with the
CVMSHCP, is not expected. With implementation of pre -construction surveys described in the Conclusions
and Recommendations section below, activities proposed on the utility field parcels are not expected to
conflict with the CVMSHCP or result in impacts to species covered under the CVMSHCP, such as
burrowing owl.
Local Policies and Ordinances
Proposed activities related to the development of water wells on the utility field parcels are not expected to
conflict with any local policies or ordinances protecting biological resources.
Existing Site Conditions
The proposed utility field parcels are generally flat, ranging in elevation from approximately 75 to 125 feet
below mean sea level. A review of the NRCS Web Soil Survey for the proposed utility parcels includes the
following:
• Coachella fine sand, wet, 0 to 2 percent slopes (CrA)
• Gilman fine sandy loam, wet, 0 to 2 percent slopes (GcA)
• Indio fine sandy loam, wet, 0 to 2 percent slopes (Ir)
• Indio very fine sandy loam, wet (It)
• Water (W) (agricultural pond)
Based on a review of historic aerial imagery, most of the proposed utility field parcels have been utilized
for agricultural purposes since at least the 1980s (Google, Inc. 2022). Additional agricultural areas and
some residential parcels surround the utility field parcels.
Vegetation Communities and Land Cover Types
The GLA report identifies the occurrence of two vegetation communities/land cover types within the utility
field parcels, including agricultural land uses (approximately 465 acres) across the southern portions and
approximately one-half of the northern portion and undeveloped areas consisting of desert sink scrub habitat
(approximately 100 acres) across parcels 7, 10, and 13 in the northern portion. A review of current aerial
imagery indicates these conditions remain unchanged.
Proposed Utility Field Parcels, Travertine Land Development Project Biological Resources Due Diligence Assessment
6
Wildlife
This section provides a general discussion of common wildlife species that are expected to occur based on
existing site conditions that predominately consist of agricultural uses.
Fish
Although a constructed agricultural pond occurs in the northeast corner of Parcel 15, no perennial creeks,
ponds, lakes, or reservoirs that would support populations of fish occur within the utility field parcels.
Therefore, no fish are expected to occur.
Amphibians
Hydrogeomorphic features (e.g., perennial creeks, ponds, lakes, reservoirs) that could provide suitable
breeding habitat for amphibians are absent from the utility field parcels and amphibians are generally not
expected to occur.
Reptiles
The project site is expected to provide habitat for reptilian species that are acclimated to edge or urban
environments. Common reptilian species that may be present within the project site include western side -
blotched lizard (Uta stansburiana elegans), red racer (Coluber flagellum piceus), and Mohave desert
sidewinder (Crotalus cerastes cerastes).
Birds
A potentially large variety of avian species could occur within the utility field parcels, including both year-
round residents, seasonal residents, and transient migrants, but this is largely determined by on-site habitat.
Examples of avian species that may occur include killdeer (Charadrius vociferus), American kestrel (Falco
sparverius), Say's phoebe (Sayornis saya), burrowing owl (Athene cunicularia) a State Species of Special
Concern (SSC), American pipit (Anthus rubescens), mourning dove (Zenaida macroura), rock pigeon
(Columba livia), Eurasian collared -dove (Streptopelia decaocto), European starling (Sturnus vulgaris), and
western meadowlark (Sturnella neglecta).
Nesting birds are protected pursuant to the MBTA and the CFGC2. To maintain compliance with the MBTA
and CFGC, clearance surveys are typically required prior to any ground disturbance or vegetation removal
activities to avoid direct or indirect impacts to active bird nests and/or nesting birds. Consequently, if an
active bird nest is destroyed or if project activities result in indirect impacts (e.g., nest abandonment, loss
2 Section 3503 makes it unlawful to take, possess, or needlessly destroy the nest or eggs of any bird, except as otherwise provided by the California
Fish and Game Code or any regulation made pursuant thereto; Section 3503.5 makes it unlawful to take, possess, or destroy any birds in the
orders Falconiformes or Strigiformes (birds -of -prey); and Section 3513 makes it unlawful to take or possess any migratory non -game bird except
as provided by the rules and regulations adopted by the Secretary of the Interior under provisions of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, as amended
(16 U.S.C. § 703 etseq.).
Proposed Utility Field Parcels, Travertine Land Development Project Biological Resources Due Diligence Assessment
7
of reproductive effort) to nesting birds, it is considered "take" and is potentially punishable by fines and/or
imprisonment.
Mammals
The project site provides marginal habitat for a limited number of mammalian species adapted to living in
edge or urban environments. Common mammalian species that have the potential to occur within the project
site include California ground squirrel (Otospermophilus beecheyi), opossum (Didelphis virginiana),
racoon (Procyon lotor), domestic dog (Canis lupus familiaris), and coyote (Canis latrans). Additionally,
bobcat (Lynx rufus), with den and kittens, have been documented at PGA West Greg Norman Gold Course
just west of the northern portion of the utility field parcels.
Bat species may forage throughout the utility field parcels, especially in areas where insects may naturally
accumulate over agricultural fields. Suitable bat roosting habitat may also occur within the utility field
parcels where hollow tree trunks/limbs, trees with particularly dense foliage, bridges, or buildings occur.
Additionally, rock outcrops and deep rock crevices more suitable for bat roosting are likely present in the
surrounding mountain landscape west of the utility field parcels.
Migratory Corridors and Linkages
Wildlife corridors and linkages are key features for wildlife movement between habitat patches. Wildlife
corridors are generally defined as those areas that provide opportunities for individuals or local populations
to conduct seasonal migrations, permanent dispersals, or daily commutes, while linkages generally refer to
broader areas that provide movement opportunities for multiple keystone/focal species or allow for
propagation of ecological processes (e.g., for movement of pollinators), often between areas of conserved
land.
Residential and active agricultural uses generally surround the utility field parcels. Some remnant patches
of native desert scrub habitat are also present. Wildlife movement, especially by Peninsular bighorn sheep
(Ovis canadensis nelsoni), may occur across mountainous areas and alluvial fans west of the utility field
parcels. Areas to the east, south, and north of the utility field parcels primarily consist of agricultural and
residential uses, and any wildlife currently utilizing the utility field parcels and adjacent areas for dispersal
and movement are likely adapted to disturbances associated with such land uses. Activities associated with
the installation of water wells and electric power substation within the proposed parcels are not expected to
significantly impede wildlife movement through the area, as these sites do not coincide with or function as
a significant wildlife movement corridor. Undisturbed alluvial fans and mountainous areas to the west
would continue to provide opportunities for local wildlife movement and function as a corridor for highly
mobile wildlife species.
Special -Status Biological Resources
The CNDDB (CDFW 2022a) and IRP (CNPS 2022) were queried for reported locations of special -status
plant and wildlife species and sensitive natural vegetation communities occurring in the USGS Martinez
Proposed Utility Field Parcels, Travertine Land Development Project Biological Resources Due Diligence Assessment
8
Mountain, La Quinta, Valerie, and Indio 7.5 -minute quadrangles. Additionally, a review of IPaC (USFWS
2022a) for the project area was completed to identify federally -listed plant and wildlife species known from
the project region. The results of these database reviews are provided in Attachment C. Twenty-nine (29)
special -status plant species, twenty-eight (28) special -status wildlife species, and one sensitive vegetation
community were identified. Information on each species' special -status ranking and preferred habitats are
provided in Attachment D. The potential for these species to occur within the utility field parcels generally
cannot be determined without a recent biological survey of the area. As a result, this section provides only
a preliminary discussion of those special -status species that may have the potential to occur within or
adjacent to the utility field parcels, but a more detailed discussion of the potential for additional special -
status species to occur would require a contemporary field survey(s) across all parcels to properly
characterize on-site habitat.
Special -Status Plants
A total of twenty-three (29) special -status plant species were identified during the database review (see
Attachments C and D), including two federal and/or State -listed species: Coachella Valley milk -vetch
(Astragalus lentiginosus var. coachellae) and triple -ribbed milk -vetch (Astragalus tricarinatus). No records
of special -status plant species in the CNDDB coincide with the utility field parcels. The nearest record of
such species is of Lancaster milk -vetch (Astragalus preussii var. laxorus), a non -listed special -status
species with a California Rare Plant Rank (CRPR) of 1B.1, documented approximately 0.5 mile west of the
utility field parcels in 1928. Most other records of special -status plant species identified during the database
review are from five plus miles away from the utility field parcels and/or are over 40 years old (some over
100 years old) and are likely extirpated due to the development of the surrounding region. As a result,
special -status plant species are not expected within the utility field parcels.
Special -Status Wildlife
A total of twenty-eight (28) special -status wildlife species were identified during the database reviews
(seem Attachments C and D), including nine federal and/or State -listed species: desert slender salamander
(Batrachoseps major aridus), desert pupfish (Cyprinodon macularius), Casey's June beetle (Dinacoma
caseyi), southwestern willow flycatcher (Empidonax traillii extimus), desert tortoise (Gopherus agassizii),
Peninsular bighorn sheep, Yuma Ridgeway's rail (Rallus obsoletus [= longirostrisJ yumanensis), Coachella
Valley fringe -toed lizard (Uma inornate), and least Bell's vireo (Vireo bellii pusillus). A record of
Coachella Valley fringe -toed lizard from 1975 coincides with the northern -most parcels. Other records of
this species from the same time period occur within close proximity of the utility parcels. However, due to
the age of these records and lack of habitats preferred by this species (see Attachment D for habitat
preferences), it is not anticipated to occur within the utility field parcels. Other special -status wildlife
species identified during the database review are generally not expected to occur within the utility field
parcels; however, on-site conditions may be suitable for burrowing owl and other non -listed special -status
bird species, as well as common bird species protected under the MBTA and CFGC.
Sensitive Natural Vegetation Communities
Proposed Utility Field Parcels, Travertine Land Development Project Biological Resources Due Diligence Assessment
9
One sensitive natural vegetation community, Desert Fan Palm Oasis Woodland, was identified from the
review of the CNDDB. Based on a review of the GLA report and aerial imagery, this community does not
occur within the utility field parcels. Parcels consists of agricultural land uses and some areas of desert sink
scrub habitat and no sensitive natural vegetation communities are expected.
Aquatic Features
Two aquatic features were identified during a desktop review of the utility field parcels for the presence of
potential federal and/or State jurisdictional features by Michael Baker (2021). This review indicated that
an agricultural pond occurs in the northeast corner of the northern portion and based on historical aerial
imagery, appears to have been constructed sometime between June 2009 and June 2011. A second feature
was also identified, consisting of a potential wetland occurring across four contiguous parcels in the
southeast portion. This feature has been mapped as PEM1Fx (palustrine, emergent, persistent, semi -
permanently flooded, excavated) Freshwater Emergent Wetland by the USFWS in the National Wetlands
Inventory (NWI) Mapper (USFWS 2022c). Recurring ponding/flooding and vegetation are visible within
this feature in aerial imagery.
Based on the analysis provided by Michael Baker (2021), these features potentially fall under regulatory
jurisdiction of the Regional Water Quality Control Board and/or CDFW pursuant to the State Porter -
Cologne Act and the CFGC, respectively. However, these features do not appear to have a connection to
interstate commerce via Relatively Permanent Waters (RPW) or Traditional Navigable Waters (TNW), and
as a result, are not anticipated to be jurisdictional to the US Army Corps of Engineers pursuant to Section
404 of the federal Clean Water Act.
Critical Habitat
Under the definition included in the FESA, designated Critical Habitat refers to specific areas within the
geographical range of a species that were occupied at the time it was listed that contain the physical or
biological features that are essential to the survival and eventual recovery of that species. Areas of Critical
Habitat may require special management considerations or protection, regardless of whether the species is
still extant in the area. Areas that were not known to be occupied at the time a species was listed can also
be designated Critical Habitat if they contain one or more of the physical or biological features that are
essential to that species' conservation and if the other areas that are occupied are inadequate to ensure the
species' recovery. If a project may result in take or adverse modification to a species' designated Critical
Habitat and the project has a federal nexus, the project proponent may be required to provide suitable
mitigation. Projects with a federal nexus may include projects that occur on federal lands, require federal
permits (e.g., CWA Section 404 permit), or receive any federal oversight or funding. If there is a federal
nexus, then the federal agency that is responsible for providing funds or permits would be required to
consult with the USFWS pursuant to the FESA.
Based on a review of the USFWS Critical Habitat Mapper (USFWS 2022b), the utility field parcels do not
coincide with USFWS-designated Critical Habitat for any federally listed species
Proposed Utility Field Parcels, Travertine Land Development Project Biological Resources Due Diligence Assessment
10
Conclusions and Recommendations
All findings of this report as described above and summarized in this section should be considered
preliminary and are based on a review of limited data available from previous studies and online databases.
No field surveys were conducted specifically in support of this report. This section summarizes the primary
findings of this report and provides general recommendations and guidance for future proposed activities
within the proposed utility field parcels.
Special -status plant species identified during the literature review are generally not expected to occur within
the utility field parcels. As a result, focused plant surveys are not expected to be necessary; however, a
general field survey would confirm the potential presence of such species and any habitat potentially
suitable for such species.
Special -status wildlife species were observed during surveys conducted by Michael Baker of the Travertine
Land Development Project site in 2022, located just west of the utility parcels (Michael Baker 2022). Black -
tailed gnatcatcher (Polioptila melanura; CDFW Watch List [WL] species), loggerhead shrike (Lanius
ludovicianus; CDFW Species of Special Concern [SSC]), long-eared owl (Asio otus; CDFW SSC), and
osprey (Pandion haliaetus; CDFW WL species) were detected. Based on the database review, these species
as well as burrowing owl (CDFW SSC and CVMSHCP covered species) may have some potential to occur
within the utility field parcels. However, federal and/or State -listed species are not expected within the
utility field parcels based on existing site conditions and a review of specific habitat requirements (see
Attachment D), occurrence records, and known distributions of these species. Take of any wildlife species
that are protected under FESA, CESA, and/or are designated as SSC or Fully Protected species in California
would potentially qualify for significant impacts during CEQA analyses. Species that are protected under
FESA and/or CESA would also require consultation with the USFWS under Section 7 or Section 10 of
FESA and/or an Incidental Take Permit from the CDFW under Section 2081 of CESA.
Based on these conclusions, Michael Baker anticipates and recommends the following:
• A general biological field survey to document existing conditions and the suitability of habitats
within the utility field parcels to support special -status wildlife species such as burrowing owl,
which could potentially occur on-site.
• In areas of suitable habitat, focused surveys for burrowing owl may be required in support of a
CEQA analysis.
• Regardless of focused survey findings, if suitable habitat for burrowing owl is present, two (2)
separate preconstruction surveys are required prior to any ground disturbance, one no less than 14
days prior to disturbance, and the other within 24 hours prior to ground disturbance.
• Should take of burrowing owl be expected, a relocation plan and extensive coordination to move
animals offsite can be expected.
• Preconstruction surveys for nesting birds would be required during the nesting season (generally
February 15 through August 31 and as early as January for raptors) prior to any project activities.
Such surveys are typically conducted within three (3) days of the initiation of project activities and
Proposed Utility Field Parcels, Travertine Land Development Project Biological Resources Due Diligence Assessment
11
include suitable nesting habitat within a 500 -foot buffer around the project boundary.
Implementation of pre -construction surveys and subsequent nest monitoring, if needed, would
reduce potential impacts to non -listed special -status birds in the unlikely event they occur within
the utility field parcels, as well as common bird species protected under the MBTA and CFGC.
As described above, aquatic features potentially falling under State jurisdiction are present within the utility
field parcels (Michael Baker 2021). As part of the CEQA analysis of any proposed development within the
utility parcels, a regulatory specialist should be consulted to determine if a jurisdictional delineation is
necessary. If so, a jurisdictional delineation should be conducted to determine the potential regulatory status
of these features should it be determined that they may be impacted by installation of water wells or the
electric power substation. Impacts to jurisdictional features may require regulatory permits from the
USACE, RWQCB, and/or the CDFW as applicable.
In order to develop a clearer understanding of on-site biological resources occurring within the utility field
parcels, impacts that could occur within these parcels, and future mitigation and/or permitting that may be
required, it is recommended that a general field survey of biological resources, followed by a detailed
biological resources assessment be conducted. Such surveys would also inform the need for focused species
surveys, such as for burrowing owl.
Please do not hesitate to contact me at (949) 379-0383 or Arthur.Popp@mbakerintl.com should you have
any questions or require further information.
Sincerely,
John Parent
Biologist
Attachments:
A. References
B. Project Figures
C. Literature Review Results
D. Special -Status Species and Sensitive Communities
CO--fireit
Arthur Popp
Natural Resources Technical Manager
Proposed Utility Field Parcels, Travertine Land Development Project Biological Resources Due Diligence Assessment
12
Attachment A
References
Calflora. 2022. Information on California plants for education, research and conservation. [web
application]. Berkeley, California: The Calflora Database [a non-profit organization]. Accessed online at:
https://www.calflora. org/.
California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW). 2022a. California Natural Diversity Data Base
RareFind 5. Data base report on threatened, endangered, rare or otherwise sensitive species and
communities for the Indio, La Quinta, Martinez Mtn, Valerie, California USGS 7.5 -minute quadrangles.
CDFW. 2022b. Special Animals List. California Department of Fish and Wildlife. Sacramento, CA. July.
CDFW. 2022c. State and Federally Listed Endangered and Threatened Animals of California. California
Department of Fish and Wildlife. Sacramento, CA. July.
CDFW. 2022d. Special Vascular Plants, Bryophytes, and Lichens List. Quarterly publication. 140 pp.
July.
CDFW. 2022e. State and Federally Listed Endangered, Threatened, and Rare Plants of California.
California Department of Fish and Wildlife. Sacramento, CA. July.
California Native Plant Society (CNPS) 2022. Inventory of Rare Plants (online edition, v9-01 1.5).
Accessed online at: http://www.rareplants.cnps.org/.
Glen Lukos and Associates (GLA). 2022. Biological Technical Report for the Travertine Development
Project Located in the City of La Quinta Riverside County, California, January 7.
Google, Inc. 2022. Google Earth Pro Historical Aerial Imagery Version 7.3.8.8248. Build date
07/16/2021. Aerial Imagery dated 1985 through 2022.
Michael Baker International (Michael Baker). 2021. Addendum to the Delineation of State and Federal
Jurisdictional Waters dated June 2021 for the Travertine Project — City of La Quinta, Riverside County,
California.
Michael Baker. 2022. Travertine Project. City of La Quinta, County of Riverside, California. Biological
Resources Assessment. March 2022.
US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 2022a. Information for Planning and Consultation Project
Planning Tool. Accessed online at: https://ecos.fws.gov/ipac/.
USFWS. 2022b. Critical Habitat Mapper for Threatened and Endangered Species. Accessed online at:
https://fws.maps.arcgis.com/home/webmap/viewer.html?webmap=9d8de5e265ad4fe09893cf75b8dbfb77
Attachment B
Project Figures
E
JN M:\Mdata\Ma
Brings'
9
SEVEN PALMS
VALLEY
� a
11P.,Im Springs
'Mitt Airport
Raw r
y
,Thousand Palm s
A .A
CALL 1TF
Cathedral City.
0
SANTA c• SA
RESErr;Ai'Jh
n
J. =4
Rancho
Mirage
Palm Desert
La Quints
Bermi;...1
Dunes
Eject
0
ti(
9
4 TCF
'rLAT T-
SANTA
SANTA
ROSA
OUIrTAMN [�
Him F.1 .1
bac qu Ni r;�G och ra n
Rgnk Airport
I
TORI S -MARTINET
Mecca
Gracefru/ 81y(1
RIVERSIDE COUNTY
0 Z
2018 m
COUNTY
,IMPERIAL
SANTA ROSA
MOUNTAINS
STATE
r SPRINGS
OL/NTA!N
LOS
COYOTES
Borrego
Gnr. inn,
Michael Baker
INTERNATIONAL
U
0
2.5
5
Miles
UTILITY FIELD PARCELS, TRAVERTINE LAND DEVELOPMENT PROJECT
BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES DUE DILIGENCE ASSESSMENT
Source: ArcGIS Online, 2018
Regional Vicinity
Figure 1
E
LE
►r
r
m
r
rn-
c
p
•n
P
,F
Jackson St
41
i•PBM –40•,
Pumpsng
Station■■
g91 1
g: ■
Swimming Poo'O
33.594722
•
35
34
36
31
82
to
iu
2
0
2
1 TORRES
AVE
•
-D2
N'..
CJ • Swimming
•• Pool
•
n -58th -Ave
23
25
1824
/21
19
29
26
23 22
f of lF
20
1 N
E
0
L N
co
'MARTINEZ
2
25
1'•O
v
0
25\
60th.Ave'
AVENUE
:36 [1
%1 st-Aver
• 62nd Ave -
1
OD
0•
Legend
Utility Field Parcel Boundaries
Interior Parcel Boundaries
Reference Point
Michael Baker
INTERNATIONAL
O 0
1,000
2,000
Feet
UTILITY FIELD PARCELS, TRAVERTINE LAND DEVELOPMENT PROJECT
BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES DUE DILIGENCE ASSESSMENT
Source: Riverside County (2020), NAIP Imagery (2020)
Project Location Map over topo
Figure 2
iiISaE7S.U73�f]F7�T.da6i:
D
To
0
TTE
0
Legend
Utility Field Parcel Boundaries
Interior Parcel Boundaries
Reference Point
Michael Baker
INTERNATIONAL
o 0
1,000
2,000
Feet
Source: Riverside County (2020), NAIP Imagery (2020)
UTILITY FIELD PARCELS, TRAVERTINE LAND DEVELOPMENT PROJECT
BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES DUE DILIGENCE ASSESSMENT
Project Location Map over aerial
Figure 3
to\Marketing \Traverti n
retoteli
Legend
Utility Field Parcel Boundaries
Interior Parcel Boundaries
® Reference Point
-CrA- Coachella fine sand,
wet, 0 to 2 percent slopes
GcA - Gilman fine sandy
loam, wet, 0 to 2 percent
slopes
Ir - Indio fine sandy loam, wet
It - Indio very fine sandy loam,
wet
W - Water
Michael Baker
INTERNATIONAL
O 0
1,000
2,000
Feet
UTILITY FIELD PARCELS, TRAVERTINE LAND DEVELOPMENT PROJECT
BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES DUE DILIGENCE ASSESSMENT
Source: Riverside County (2020), NAIP Imagery (2020)
Soils Map
Figure 4
Field Parcels Travertine Land Development Project\Utility Field Parcels Travertine Land De
0
a
00
r
7/22/2022 JN M:\Mdata\Mar
Legend
Utility Field Parcel Boundaries
Interior Parcel Boundaries
® Reference Point
Santa Rosa and San Jacinto
Mountains Conservation Area
Coachella Valley Multiple
Species Habitat Conservation
Plan Boundary
Michael Baker
INTERNATIONAL
O 0
2,000
4,000
Feet
UTILITY FIELD PARCELS, TRAVERTINE LAND DEVELOPMENT PROJECT
BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES DUE DILIGENCE ASSESSMENT
Source: Riverside County (2020), NAIP Imagery (2020)
Coachella Valley MSHCP/NCCP
Figure 5
Attachment C
Literature Review Results
Selected Elements by Scientific Name
California Department of Fish and Wildlife
California Natural Diversity Database
CALIFORNIA
FISH &" "
WILDLIFE
Query Criteria: Quad<span style='color:Red'> IS </span>(Indio (3311662)<span style='color:Red'> OR </span>Martinez Mtn. (3311653)<span
style='color:Red'> OR </span>Valerie (3311652)<span style='color:Red'> OR </span>La Quinta (3311663))
Species
Rare Plant
Rank/CDFW
Element Code Federal Status State Status Global Rank State Rank SSC or FP
Abronia villosa var. aurita PDNYC010P1 None None G5T2? S2 1B.1
chaparral sand -verbena
Astragalus lentiginosus var. coachellae PDFABOFB97 Endangered None G5T1 S1 1B.2
Coachella Valley milk -vetch
Astragalus preussii var. laxiflorus PDFABOF721 None None G4T2 S1 1B.1
Lancaster milk -vetch
Astragalus sabulonum PDFABOF7R0 None None G4G5 S2 2B.2
gravel milk -vetch
Astragalus tricarinatus PDFABOF920 Endangered None G2 S2 1B.2
triple -ribbed milk -vetch
Athene cunicularia ABNSB10010 None None G4 S3 SSC
burrowing owl
Ayenia compacta PDSTE01020 None None G4 S3 2B.3
California ayenia
Batrachoseps major aridus AAAAD02042 Endangered Endangered G4T1 S1
desert slender salamander
Bursera microphylla PDBUR01020 None None G4 S2 2B.3
little -leaf elephant tree
Buteo regalis ABNKC19120 None None G4 S3S4 WL
ferruginous hawk
Chaetodipus fallax pallidus AMAFD05032 None None G5T3T4 S3S4 SSC
pallid San Diego pocket mouse
Crotalus ruber ARADE02090 None None G4 S3 SSC
red -diamond rattlesnake
Cyprinodon macularius AFCNB02060 Endangered Endangered G1 S1
desert pupfish
Desert Fan Palm Oasis Woodland CTT62300CA None None G3 S3.2
Desert Fan Palm Oasis Woodland
Dinacoma caseyi IICOLX5010 Endangered None G1 S1
Casey's June beetle
Ditaxis claryana PDEUP080L0 None None G3G4 S2 2B.2
glandular ditaxis
Ditaxis serrata var. californica PDEUP08050 None None G5T3T4 S2? 3.2
California ditaxis
Eriastrum harwoodii PDPLM030B1 None None G2 S2 1B.2
Harwood's eriastrum
Eumops perotis californicus AMACD02011 None None G4G5T4 S3S4 SSC
western mastiff bat
Commercial Version -- Dated July, 1 2022 -- Biogeographic Data Branch Page 1 of 3
Report Printed on Tuesday, July 19, 2022 Information Expires 1/1/2023
Selected Elements by Scientific Name
California Department of Fish and Wildlife
California Natural Diversity Database
CALIFORNIA
FISH &" "
WILDLIFE
Species
Rare Plant
Rank/CDFW
Element Code Federal Status State Status Global Rank State Rank SSC or FP
Euparagia unidentata IIHYMBC010 None None G1G2 S1S2
Algodones euparagia
Falco mexicanus ABNKD06090 None None G5 S4 WL
prairie falcon
Funastrum crispum PDASCOF020 None None G4 S1 2B.2
wavyleaf twinvine
Jaffueliobryum raui NBMUS97010 None None G4 S2 2B.3
Rau's jaffueliobryum moss
Juniperella mirabilis IICOLX9010 None None G1 S1
juniper metallic wood -boring beetle
Lasiurus xanthinus AMACC05070 None None G4G5 S3 SSC
western yellow bat
Leptosiphon floribundus ssp. hallii PDPLM090J3 None None G4T1T2 S1S2 1B.3
Santa Rosa Mountains Leptosiphon
Macrobaenetes valgum IIORT22020 None None G1G2 S1S2
Coachella giant sand treader cricket
Marina orcuttii var. orcuttii PDFAB2F031 None None G2G3T1T2 S2? 1B.3
California marina
Matelea parvifolia PDASCOAOJO None None G5 S3 2B.3
spear -leaf matelea
Nemacaulis denudata var. gracilis PDPGN0G012 None None G3G4T3? S2 2B.2
slender cottonheads
Nyctinomops femorosaccus AMACD04010 None None G5 S3 SSC
pocketed free -tailed bat
Oliarcesclara IINEU04010 None None G1G3 S2
cheeseweed owlfly (cheeseweed moth lacewing)
Ovis canadensis nelsoni pop. 2 AMALE04012 Endangered Threatened G4T3Q S2 FP
Peninsular bighorn sheep DPS
Perognathus longimembris bangsi AMAFD01043 None None G5T2 S1 SSC
Palm Springs pocket mouse
Phaseolus filiformis PDFAB330P0 None None G5 S1 2B.1
slender -stem bean
Phrynosoma mcallii ARACF12040 None None G3 S2 SSC
flat -tailed horned lizard
Polioptila melanura ABPBJ08030 None None G5 S3S4 WL
black -tailed gnatcatcher
Pseudorontium cyathiferum PDSCR2R010 None None G4G5 S1 2B.3
Deep Canyon snapdragon
Pyrocephalus rubinus ABPAE36010 None None G5 S2S3 SSC
vermilion flycatcher
Selaginella eremophila PPSEL010G0 None None G4 S2S3 2B.2
desert spike -moss
Commercial Version -- Dated July, 1 2022 -- Biogeographic Data Branch Page 2 of 3
Report Printed on Tuesday, July 19, 2022 Information Expires 1/1/2023
Selected Elements by Scientific Name
California Department of Fish and Wildlife
California Natural Diversity Database
CALIFORNIA
FISH &" "
WILDLIFE
Species
Rare Plant
Rank/CDFW
Element Code Federal Status State Status Global Rank State Rank SSC or FP
Senna covesii
Cove's cassia
Stemodia durantifolia
purple stemodia
Taxidea taxus
American badger
Toxostoma crissale
Crissal thrasher
Toxostoma lecontei
Le Conte's thrasher
Uma inornata
Coachella Valley fringe -toed lizard
Xerospermophilus tereticaudus chlorus
Palm Springs round -tailed ground squirrel
PDFAB491X0 None None G5 S3
PDSCR1U010 None None G5 S2
AMAJF04010 None None G5 S3
ABPBK06090 None None G5 S3
ABPBK06100 None None G4 S3
ARACF15010 Threatened Endangered G1Q S1
AMAFB05161 None None G5T2Q S2
2B.2
2B.1
SSC
SSC
SSC
SSC
Record Count: 47
Commercial Version -- Dated July, 1 2022 -- Biogeographic Data Branch Page 3 of 3
Report Printed on Tuesday, July 19, 2022 Information Expires 1/1/2023
California Native Plant Society - Rare Plant Inventory
Quad Search: La Quinta, Valerie, Martinez Mountain, and Indio
Scientific Name
Common Name
California
Rare Plant
Rank
Listing
Under Listing
CESA Under FESA
Abronia villosa var. aurita
Astragalus lentiginosus var. borreganus
Astragalus lentiginosus var. coachellae
Astragalus preussii var. laxiflorus
Astragalus sabulonum
Astragalus tricarinatus
Ayenia compacta
Bursera microphylla
Chorizanthe leptotheca
Ditaxis claryana
Ditaxis serrata var. californica
Eriastrum harwoodii
Funastrum crispum
Horsfordia alata
Horsfordia newberryi
Jaffueliobryum raui
Johnstonella costata
Johnstonella holoptera
Juncus acutus ssp. leopoldii
Leptosiphon floribundus ssp. hallii
Marina orcuttii var. orcuttii
Matelea parvifolia
Mirabilis tenuiloba
Nemacaulis denudata var. gracilis
Phaseolus filiformis
Pseudorontium cyathiferum
Selaginella eremophila
Senna covesii
Stemodia durantifolia
chaparral sand -verbena
Borrego milk -vetch
Coachella Valley milk -vetch
Lancaster milk -vetch
gravel milk -vetch
triple -ribbed milk -vetch
California ayenia
little -leaf elephant tree
Peninsular spineflower
glandular ditaxis
California ditaxis
Harwood's eriastrum
wavyleaf twinvine
pink velvet -mallow
Newberry's velvet -mallow
Rau's jaffueliobryum moss
ribbed cryptantha
winged cryptantha
southwestern spiny rush
Santa Rosa Mountains leptosip
California marina
spear -leaf matelea
slender -lobed four o'clock
slender cottonheads
slender -stem bean
Deep Canyon snapdragon
desert spike -moss
Cove's cassia
purple stemodia
1 B.1
4.3
16.2
1 B.1
2B.2
16.2
2B.3
2B.3
4.2
2B.2
3.2
16.2
2B.2
4.3
4.3
2B.3
4.3
4.3
4.2
1B.3
1B.3
2B.3
4.3
2B.2
2 B.1
2B.3
2B.2
2B.2
2 B.1
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
Endangered
None
None
Endangered
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
California Native Plant Society, Rare Plant Program. 2022. Rare Plant Inventory (online edition, v9-01 1.5).
Websitehttps://www.rareplants.cnps.org [accessed 19 July 2022].
7/19/22, 3:13 PM IPaC: Explore Location resources
IPaC
IPaC resource list
U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
This report is an automatically generated list of species and other resources such as critical habitat (collectively referred to as
trust resources) under the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's (USFWS) jurisdiction that are known or expected to be on or near
the project area referenced below. The list may also include trust resources that occur outside of the project area, but that
could potentially be directly or indirectly affected by activities in the project area. However, determining the likelihood and
extent of effects a project may have on trust resources typically requires gathering additional site-specific (e.g.,
vegetation/species surveys) and project -specific (e.g., magnitude and timing of proposed activities) information. h1.41110:1111111
Below is a summary of the project information you provided and contact information for the USFWS office(s) with jurisdiction
in the defined project area. Please read the introduction to each section that follows (Endangered Species, Migratory Birds,
USFWS Facilities, and NWI Wetlands) for additional information applicable to the trust resources addressed in that section.
Location
Riverside County, California
6.1
4n 9wrm
Tho-
PSFna
4.1
Club
h•Myxn
Doui1ir,
1116
https://ipac.ecosphere.fws.gov/location/PKQOIBVRVJGMPKJUTYATUK4GTA/resources 1/14
7/19/22, 3:13 PM IPaC: Explore Location resources
Local office
Carlsbad Fish And Wildlife Office
t. (760) 431-9440
la (760) 431-5901
2177 Salk Avenue - Suite 250
Carlsbad, CA 92008-7385
\n -c
c\CII\
\f,
O,s
\" loi'c
https://ipac.ecosphere.fws.gov/location/PKQOIBVRVJGMPKJUTYATUK4GTA/resources 2/14
7/19/22, 3:13 PM IPaC: Explore Location resources
Endangered species
This resource list is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an analysis of project level impacts.
The primary information used to generate this list is the known or expected range of each species. Additional areas of
influence (AOI) for species are also considered. An AOI includes areas outside of the species range if the species could be
indirectly affected by activities in that area (e.g., placing a dam upstream of a fish population even if that fish does not occur
at the dam site, may indirectly impact the species by reducing or eliminating water flow downstream). Because species can
move, and site conditions can change, the species on this list are not guaranteed to be found on or near the project area. To
fully determine any potential effects to species, additional site-specific and project -specific information is often required.
Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act requires Federal agencies to "request of the Secretary information whether any
species which is listed or proposed to be listed may be present in the area of such proposed action" for any project that is
conducted, permitted, funded, or licensed by any Federal agency. A letter from the local office and a species list which fulfills
this requirement can only be obtained by requesting an official species list from either the Regulatory Review section in IPaC
(see directions below) or from the local field office directly.
For project evaluations that require USFWS concurrence/review, please return to the IPaC website and request an official
species list by doing the following:.
1. Draw the project location and click CONTINUE.
2. Click DEFINE PROJECT.
0111
3. Log in (if directed to do so).
4. Provide a name and description for your project
5. Click REQUEST SPECIES LIST.
Listed species' and their critical habitats are managed by the Ecological Services Program of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
(USFWS) and the fisheries division of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA Fisheries).
Species and critical habitats under the sole responsibility of NOAA Fisheries are not shown on this list. Please contact NOAA
Fisheries for species under their jurisdiction.
‘l
https://ipac.ecosphere.fws.gov/location/PKQOIBVRVJGMPKJUTYATUK4GTA/resources 3/14
7/19/22, 3:13 PM IPaC: Explore Location resources
1. Species listed under the Endangered Species Act are threatened or endangered; IPaC also shows species that are
candidates, or proposed, for listing. See the listing status page for more information. IPaC only shows species that are
regulated by USFWS (see FAQ).
2. NOAA Fisheries, also known as the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), is an office of the National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration within the Department of Commerce.
The following species are potentially affected by activities in this location:
Mammals
NAME
Peninsular Bighorn Sheep Ovis canadensis nelsoni
There is final critical habitat for this species. Your location overlaps the critical habitat.
https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/4970
Birds
NAME
Least Bell's Vireo Vireo bellii pusillus
Wherever found
eft
There is final critical habitat for this species. The location of the critical habitat is no
available.
https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/5945
Southwestern Willow Flycatcher Empidonax traillii extimus
Wherever found
There is final critical habitat for this species. The location of the critical habitat is not
available.
https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/6749
les lice
STATUS
Endangered
s\O
4
STATUS
Endangered
Endangered
https://ipac.ecosphere.fws.gov/location/PKQOIBVRVJGMPKJUTYATUK4GTA/resources 4/14
7/19/22, 3:13 PM IPaC: Explore Location resources
Yuma Ridgway"s Rail Rallus obsoletus yumanensis
Wherever found
No critical habitat has been designated for this species.
https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/3505
Reptiles
NAME
Endangered
STATUS
Coachella Valley Fringe -toed Lizard Uma inornata Threatened
Ik161411
Wherever found
There is final critical habitat for this species. The location of the critical habitat is not
https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/2069
454c\O
Desert Tortoise Gopherus agassizii Threatened
There is final critical habitat for this species. The location of the critical habitat is notRIP-
available.
https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/4481 \V\
Insects
NAME STATUS
Monarch Butterfly Danaus plexippus
Wherever found
r
No critical habitat has been designated for this species.As)
https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/9743
Flowering Plants
NAME \ 114
\n
0
Candidate
STATUS
https://ipac.ecosphere.fws.gov/location/PKQOIBVRVJGMPKJUTYATUK4GTA/resources 5/14
7/19/22, 3:13 PM IPaC: Explore Location resources
Coachella Valley Milk -vetch Astragalus lentiginosus var. coachellae
Wherever found
There is final critical habitat for this species. The location of the critical habitat is not
available.
https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/7426
Endangered
Critical habitats
Potential effects to critical habitat(s) in this location must be analyzed along with the endangered species themselves.
\141
This location overlaps the critical habitat for the following species:
NAME TYPE
Peninsular Bighorn Sheep Ovis canadensis nelsoni Final -\0
https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/4970#crithab
°1/4‘
Migratory birds
4 rb- ‘1/4.....)1
Certain birds are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act1 and the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act?.
Any person or organization who plans or conducts activities that may result in impacts to migratory birds, eagles, and their
habitats should follow appropriate regulations and consider implementing appropriate conservation measures, as described
below.
111-21- 'owe -
1. The Migratory Birds Treaty Act of 1918.
2. The Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act of 1940.
Additional information can be found using the following links:
• Birds of Conservation Concern https://www.fws.gov/program/migratory-birds/species
https://ipac.ecosphere.fws.gov/location/PKQOIBVRVJGMPKJUTYATUK4GTA/resources 6/14
7/19/22, 3:13 PM IPaC: Explore Location resources
• Measures for avoiding and minimizing impacts to birds https://www.fws.gov/library/collections/avoiding-and-minimizing-
incidental-take-migratory-birds
• Nationwide conservation measures for birds https://www.fws.gov/sites/default/files/documents/nationwide-standard-
conservation-measures.pdf
The birds listed below are birds of particular concern either because they occur on the USFWS Birds of Conservation
Concern (BCC) list or warrant special attention in your project location. To learn more about the levels of concern for birds
on your list and how this list is generated, see the FAQ below. This is not a list of every bird you may find in this location, nor a
guarantee that every bird on this list will be found in your project area. To see exact locations of where birders and the
general public have sighted birds in and around your project area, visit the E -bird data mapping tool (Tip: enter your location,
desired date range and a species on your list). For projects that occur off the Atlantic Coast, additional maps and models
detailing the relative occurrence and abundance of bird species on your list are available. Links to additional information
about Atlantic Coast birds, and other important information about your migratory bird list, including how to properly
interpret and use your migratory bird report, can be found below.
For guidance on when to schedule activities or implement avoidance and minimization measures to reduce impacts to
migratory birds on your list, click on the PROBABILITY OF PRESENCE SUMMARY at the top of your list to see when these birds
are most likely to be present and breeding in your project area.
NAME
Go
BREEDING SEASON (IFA BREEDING
Costa's Hummingbird Calypte costae
This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) only in particular Bird Conservation Regions
(BCRs) in the continental USA
https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/9470
SEASON IS INDICATED FOR A BIRD ON
YOUR LIST, THE BIRD MAY BREED IN YOUR
PROJECT AREA SOMETIME WITHIN THE
TIMEFRAME SPECIFIED, WHICH ISA VERY
LIBERAL ESTIMATE OF THE DATES INSIDE
WHICH THE BIRD BREEDS ACROSS ITS
ENTIRE RANGE. "BREEDS ELSEWHERE"
INDICATES THAT THE BIRD DOES NOT
LIKELY BREED IN YOUR PROJECT AREA.)
Breeds Jan 15 to Jun 10
https://ipac.ecosphere.fws.gov/location/PKQOIBVRVJGMPKJUTYATUK4GTA/resources 7/14
7/19/22, 3:13 PM IPaC: Explore Location resources
Probability of Presence Summary
The graphs below provide our best understanding of when birds of concern are most likely to be present in your project
area. This information can be used to tailor and schedule your project activities to avoid or minimize impacts to birds. Please
make sure you read and understand the FAQ "Proper Interpretation and Use of Your Migratory Bird Report" before using or
attempting to interpret this report.
Probability of Presence ( )
Each green bar represents the bird's relative probability of presence in the 10km grid cell(s) your project overlaps during a
particular week of the year. (A year is represented as 12 4 -week months.) A taller bar indicates a higher probability of species
presence. The survey effort (see below) can be used to establish a level of confidence in the presence score. One can have
lk Nara
higher confidence in the presence score if the corresponding survey effort is also high.
How is the probability of presence score calculated? The calculation is done in three steps:
1. The probability of presence for each week is calculated as the number of survey events in the week where the species was
detected divided by the total number of survey events for that week. For example, if in week 12 there were 20 survey
events and the Spotted Towhee was found in 5 of them, the probability of presence of the Spotted Towhee in week 12 is
0.25.
NE
2. To properly present the pattern of presence across the year, the relative probability of presence is calculated. This is the
probability of presence divided by the maximum probability of presence across all weeks. For example, imagine the
probability of presence in week 20 for the Spotted Towhee is 0.05, and that the probability of presence at week 12 (0.25) is
the maximum of any week of the year. The relative probability of presence on week 12 is 0.25/0.25 = 1; at week 20 it is
0.05/0.25 = 0.2.
3. The relative probability of presence calculated in the previous step undergoes a statistical conversion so that all possible
values fall between 0 and 10, inclusive. This is the probability of presence score.
To see a bar's probability of presence score, simply hover your mouse cursor over the bar.
Breeding Season ( )
Yellow bars denote a very liberal estimate of the time -frame inside which the bird breeds across its entire range. If there are
no yellow bars shown for a bird, it does not breed in your project area.
Survey Effort (I)
https://ipac.ecosphere.fws.gov/location/PKQOI BVRVJGMPKJUTYATUK4GTA/resources
8/14
7/19/22, 3:13 PM IPaC: Explore Location resources
Vertical black lines superimposed on probability of presence bars indicate the number of surveys performed for that species
in the 10km grid cell(s) your project area overlaps. The number of surveys is expressed as a range, for example, 33 to 64
surveys.
To see a bar's survey effort range, simply hover your mouse cursor over the bar.
No Data (—)
A week is marked as having no data if there were no survey events for that week.
Survey Timeframe
Surveys from only the last 10 years are used in order to ensure delivery of currently relevant information. The exception to
this is areas off the Atlantic coast, where bird returns are based on all years of available data, since data in these areas is
currently much more sparse.
4 g - f."..4\11111$11
probability of presence breeding season 1 survey effort — no data
SPECIES JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT Ilk NOV DEC
Costa's Hummingbird 1111 MI ilii i11l 1111
1111 _ _+___ i 1 I
BCC - BCR (This is a Bird
of Conservation
Concern (BCC) only in
particular Bird
Conservation Regions
(BCRs) in the
continental USA)
Tell me more about conservation measures I can implement to avoid or minimize impacts to migratory birds.
Nationwide Conservation Measures describes measures that can help avoid and minimize impacts to all birds at any location year round.
Implementation of these measures is particularly important when birds are most likely to occur in the project area. When birds may be
breeding in the area, identifying the locations of any active nests and avoiding their destruction is a very helpful impact minimization measure.
To see when birds are most likely to occur and be breeding in your project area, view the Probability of Presence Summary. Additional
measures or permits may be advisable depending on the type of activity you are conducting and the type of infrastructure or bird species
present on your project site.
What does IPaC use to generate the migratory birds potentially occurring in my specified location?
\l )
https://ipac.ecosphere.fws.gov/location/PKQOIBVRVJGMPKJUTYATUK4GTA/resources 9/14
7/19/22, 3:13 PM IPaC: Explore Location resources
The Migratory Bird Resource List is comprised of USFWS Birds of Conservation Concern (BCC) and other species that may warrant special
attention in your project location.
The migratory bird list generated for your project is derived from data provided by the Avian Knowledge Network (AKN). The AKN data is based
on a growing collection of survey, banding, and citizen science datasets and is queried and filtered to return a list of those birds reported as
occurring in the 10km grid cell(s) which your project intersects, and that have been identified as warranting special attention because they are a
BCC species in that area, an eagle (Eagle Act requirements may apply), or a species that has a particular vulnerability to offshore activities or
development.
Again, the Migratory Bird Resource list includes only a subset of birds that may occur in your project area. It is not representative of all birds
that may occur in your project area. To get a list of all birds potentially present in your project area, please visit the AKN Phenology Tool.
What does IPaC use to generate the probability of presence graphs for the migratory birds potentially occurring in my specified location?
The probability of presence graphs associated with your migratory bird list are based on data provided by the Avian Knowledge Network (AKN).
This data is derived from a growing collection of survey., banding, and citizen science datasets .
Probability of presence data is continuously being updated as new and better information becomes available. To learn more about how the
probability of presence graphs are produced and how to interpret them, go the Probability of Presence Summary and then click on the "Tell me
about these graphs" link. �*
How do I know if a bird is breeding, wintering, migrating or present year-round in my project area?
To see what part of a particular bird's range your project area falls within (i.e. breeding, wintering, migrating or year-round), you may refer to
the following resources: The Cornell Lab of Ornithology All About Birds Bird Guide, or (if you are unsuccessful in locating the bird of interest
there), the Cornell Lab of Ornithology Neotropical Birds guide. If a bird on your migratory bird species list has a breeding season associated with
it, if that bird does occur in your project area, there may be nests present at some point within the timeframe specified. If "Breeds elsewhere" is
indicated, then the bird likely does not breed in your project area.
What are the levels of concern for migratory birds?
Migratory birds delivered through IPaC fall into the following distinct categories of concern:
1. "BCC Rangewide" birds are Birds of Conservation Concern (BCC) that are of concern throughout their range anywhere within the USA
(including Hawaii, the Pacific Islands, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands);
2. "BCC - BCR" birds are BCCs that are of concern only in particular Bird Conservation Regions (BCRs) in the continental USA; and
3. "Non -BCC - Vulnerable" birds are not BCC species in your project area, but appear on your list either because of the Eagle Act requirements
(for eagles) or (for non -eagles) potential susceptibilities in offshore areas from certain types of development or activities (e.g. offshore
energy development or longline fishing).
https://ipac.ecosphere.fws.gov/location/PKQOI BVRVJGMPKJUTYATUK4GTA/resources
10/14
7/19/22, 3:13 PM IPaC: Explore Location resources
Although it is important to try to avoid and minimize impacts to all birds, efforts should be made, in particular, to avoid and minimize impacts to
the birds on this list, especially eagles and BCC species of rangewide concern. For more information on conservation measures you can
implement to help avoid and minimize migratory bird impacts and requirements for eagles, please see the FAQs for these topics.
Details about birds that are potentially affected by offshore projects
For additional details about the relative occurrence and abundance of both individual bird species and groups of bird species within your
project area off the Atlantic Coast, please visit the Northeast Ocean Data Portal. The Portal also offers data and information about other taxa
besides birds that may be helpful to you in your project review. Alternately, you may download the bird model results files underlying the portal
maps through the NOAA NCCOS Integrative Statistical Modeling and Predictive Mapping of Marine Bird Distributions and Abundance on the
Atlantic Outer Continental Shelf project webpage.
Bird tracking data can also provide additional details about occurrence and habitat use throughout the year, including migration. Models relying
on survey data may not include this information. For additional information on marine bird tracking data, see the Diving Bird Study and the
nanotag studies or contact Caleb Spiegel or Pam Loring.
What if I have eagles on my list?
If your project has the potential to disturb or kill eagles, you may need to obtain a permit to avoid violating the Eagle Act should such impacts
occur.
Proper Interpretation and Use of Your Migratory Bird Report
The migratory bird list generated is not a list of all birds in your project area, only a subset of birds of priority concern. To learn more about how
your list is generated, and see options for identifying what other birds may be in your project area, please see the FAQ "What does IPaC use to
generate the migratory birds potentially occurring in my specified location". Please be aware this report provides the "probability of presence"
of birds within the 10 km grid cell(s) that overlap your project; not your exact project footprint. On the graphs provided, please also look
carefully at the survey effort (indicated by the black vertical bar) and for the existence of the "no data" indicator (a red horizontal bar). A high
survey effort is the key component. If the survey effort is high, then the probability of presence score can be viewed as more dependable. In
contrast, a low survey effort bar or no data bar means a lack of data and, therefore, a lack of certainty about presence of the species. This list is
not perfect; it is simply a starting point for identifying what birds of concern have the potential to be in your project area, when they might be
there, and if they might be breeding (which means nests might be present). The list helps you know what to look for to confirm presence, and
helps guide you in knowing when to implement conservation measures to avoid or minimize potential impacts from your project activities,
should presence be confirmed. To learn more about conservation measures, visit the FAQ "Tell me about conservation measures I can
implement to avoid or minimize impacts to migratory birds" at the bottom of your migratory bird trust resources page.
)
https://ipac.ecosphere.fws.gov/location/PKQOIBVRVJGMPKJUTYATUK4GTA/resources 11/14
7/19/22, 3:13 PM IPaC: Explore Location resources
Coastal Barrier Resources System
Projects within the John H. Chafee Coastal Barrier Resources System (CBRS) may be subject to the restrictions on federal
expenditures and financial assistance and the consultation requirements of the Coastal Barrier Resources Act (CBRA) (16
U.S.C. 3501 et seq.). For more information, please contact the local Ecological Services Field Office or visit the CBRA
Consultations website. The CBRA website provides tools such as a flow chart to help determine whether consultation is
required and a template to facilitate the consultation process.
THERE ARE NO KNOWN COASTAL BARRIERS AT THIS LOCATION.
Data limitations
.NA
The CBRS boundaries used in IPaC are representations of the controlling boundaries, which are depicted on the official CBRS maps. The
boundaries depicted in this layer are not to be considered authoritative for in/out determinations close to a CBRS boundary (i.e., within the
"CBRS Buffer Zone" that appears as a hatched area on either side of the boundary). For projects that are very close to a CBRS boundary but do
not clearly intersect a unit, you may contact the Service for an official determination by following the instructions here:
https://www.fws.gov/service/coastal-barrier-resources-system-property-documentation
Data exclusions
CBRS units extend seaward out to either the 20- or 30 -foot bathymetric contour (depending on the location of the unit). The true seaward extent
of the units is not shown in the CBRS data, therefore projects in the offshore areas of units (e.g., dredging, breakwaters, offshore wind energy or
oil and gas projects) may be subject to CBRA even if they do not intersect the CBRS data. For additional information, please contact
CBRA@fws.gov.
01/4)
Facilities
National Wildlife Refuge lands
Any activity proposed on lands managed by the National Wildlife Refuge system must undergo a 'Compatibility
Determination' conducted by the Refuge. Please contact the individual Refuges to discuss any questions or concerns.
https://ipac.ecosphere.fws.gov/location/PKQOI BVRVJGMPKJUTYATUK4GTA/resources
12/14
7/19/22, 3:13 PM IPaC: Explore Location resources
THERE ARE NO REFUGE LANDS AT THIS LOCATION.
Fish hatcheries
THERE ARE NO FISH HATCHERIES AT THIS LOCATION.
Wetlands in the National Wetlands Inventory
,NA
Impacts to NWI wetlands and other aquatic habitats may be subject to regulation under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act,
or other State/Federal statutes.4.4c Vul
For more information please contact the Regulatory Program of the local U.S. Army Corps of Engineers District.
Please note that the NWI data being shown may be out of date. We are currently working to update our NWI data set. We
recommend you verify these results with a site visit to determine the actual extent of wetlands on site.
This location overlaps the following wetlands:
FRESHWATER EMERGENT WETLAND
Palustrine
RIVERINE
Riverine
_GZ
A full description for each wetland code can be found at the National Wetlands Inventory website
Data limitations
The Service's objective of mapping wetlands and deepwater habitats is to produce reconnaissance level information on the location, type and
size of these resources. The maps are prepared from the analysis of high altitude imagery. Wetlands are identified based on vegetation, visible
hydrology and geography. A margin of error is inherent in the use of imagery; thus, detailed on -the -ground inspection of any particular site may
https://ipac.ecosphere.fws.gov/location/PKQOIBVRVJGMPKJUTYATUK4GTA/resources 13/14
7/19/22, 3:13 PM IPaC: Explore Location resources
result in revision of the wetland boundaries or classification established through image analysis.
The accuracy of image interpretation depends on the quality of the imagery, the experience of the image analysts, the amount and quality of
the collateral data and the amount of ground truth verification work conducted. Metadata should be consulted to determine the date of the
source imagery used and any mapping problems.
Wetlands or other mapped features may have changed since the date of the imagery or field work. There may be occasional differences in
polygon boundaries or classifications between the information depicted on the map and the actual conditions on site.
Data exclusions
Certain wetland habitats are excluded from the National mapping program because of the limitations of aerial imagery as the primary data
source used to detect wetlands. These habitats include seagrasses or submerged aquatic vegetation that are found in the intertidal and subtidal
zones of estuaries and nearshore coastal waters. Some deepwater reef communities (coral or tuberficid worm reefs) have also been excluded
from the inventory. These habitats, because of their depth, go undetected by aerial imagery.
Datap recautions
Federal, state, and local regulatory agencies with jurisdiction over wetlands may define and describe wetlands in a different manner than that
used in this inventory. There is no attempt, in either the design or products of this inventory, to define the limits of proprietary jurisdiction of
any Federal, state, or local government or to establish the geographical scope of the regulatory programs of government agencies. Persons
intending to engage in activities involving modifications within or adjacent to wetland areas should seek the advice of appropriate federal, state,
or local agencies concerning specified agency regulatory programs and proprietary jurisdictions that may affect such activities.
\n -c
https://ipac.ecosphere.fws.gov/location/PKQOIBVRVJGMPKJUTYATUK4GTA/resources 14/14
Attachment D
Special -Status Species and Sensitive Vegetation Communities Identified During the Database Review
Scientific Name
Common Name
Special-
Status
Rank*
CVMSHCP
Covered
Species
Habitat Preferences and
Distribution Affinities
Potential to Occur
SPECIAL -STATUS PLANT SPECIES
Abronia villosa
var. aurita
chaparral sand-
verbena
1B.1
G5T2?
S2
No
Annual herb. Occurs on sandy soils within
chaparral, coastal scrub, and desert dunes.
Grows in elevations ranging from 245 to
5,250 feet above mean sea level (amsl).
Blooming period is (January) March
through September.
Not Expected: The utility field
parcels do not provide suitable
habitat for this species.
Astragalus
lentiginosus var.
borreganus
Borrego milk -
vetch
4.3
G5T5?
S4
No
Annual herb. Grows on sandy soils within
Mojavean desert scrub and Sonoran Desert
scrub habitats. Grows in elevations
ranging from 100 to 2,935 feet amsl.
Blooming period is February through
May.
Not Expected: The utility field
parcels do not provide suitable
habitat for this species.
Astragalus
lentiginosus var.
coachellae
Coachella Valley
milk -vetch
FE
1B.2
G5T1
S1
Yes
Annual/perennial herb. Occurs on dunes
and sandy flats along disturbed margins of
sandy washes and on sandy soils along
roadsides adjacent to existing sand dunes.
May also occur on sandy substrates in
creosote bush scrub. Found at elevations
ranging from 130 to 2,150 feet amsl.
Blooming period is February through
May.
Not Expected: The utility field
parcels do not provide suitable
habitat for this species.
Astragalus
preussii var.
laxiflorus
Lancaster milk-
vetch
1B.1
G4T2
Si
No
Perennial herb. Occurs on alkaline clay
soils in flat, gravelly or sandy washes in
chenopod scrub. Found at elevations
ranging at or around 2,295 feet amsl.
Blooming period is March through May.
Not Expected: The utility field
parcels do not provide suitable
habitat for this species and there
are no occurrence records within
five miles of the utility field
parcels.
Astragalus
sabulonum
gravel milk -vetch
2B.2
G4G5
S2
No
Annual/perennial herb. Associated with
sandy, sometimes gravelly flats, washes,
and roadsides. Habitats include desert
dunes, Mojavean desert scrub, and
Sonoran Desert scrub. Found at elevations
ranging from -195 to 3,050 feet amsl.
Blooming period is February through
June.
Not Expected: The utility field
parcels do not provide suitable
habitat for this species and there
are no occurrence records within
five miles of the utility field
parcels.
Astragalus
tricarinatus
triple -ribbed milk-
vetch
FE
1B.2
G2
S2
Yes
Perennial herb. Found on sandy or
gravelly soils within Joshua tree woodland
and Sonoran Desert scrub habitats. Found
at elevations ranging from 1,475 to 3,905
feet amsl. Blooming period is February
through May.
Not Expected: The utility field
parcels are located outside of the
known elevation range for this
species.
Ayenia compacta
California ayenia
2B.3
G4
S3
No
Perennial herb. Grows on rocky canyon
bottoms within Mojavean desert scrub and
Sonoran Desert scrub habitats. Found at
elevations ranging from 490 to 3,595 feet
amsl. Blooming period is from March to
April.
Not Expected: The utility field
parcels are located outside of the
known elevation range for this
species and do not provide
suitable habitat for this species.
Scientific Name
Common Name
Special-
Status
Rank*
CVMSHCP
Covered
Species
Habitat Preferences and
Distribution Affinities
Potential to Occur
Bursera
microphylla
little -leaf elephant
tree
2B.3
G4
S2
No
Perennial deciduous tree. Occurs in rocky
environments found in Sonoran Desert
scrub habitat. Found at elevations ranging
from 655 to 2,295 feet amsl. Blooming
period is June through July.
Not Expected: The utility field
parcels are located outside of the
known elevation range for this
species and do not provide
suitable habitat for this species.
Chorizanthe
leptotheca
Peninsular
spineflower
4.2
G3
S3
No
Annual herb. Occurs on granitic soils in
chaparral, coastal scrub, and lower
montane coniferous forest habitats. Found
at elevations ranging from 985 to 6,235
feet amsl. Blooming period is May
through August.
Not Expected: The utility field
parcels are located outside of the
known elevation range for this
species and do not provide
suitable habitat for this species.
Ditaxis claryana
glandular ditaxis
2B.2
G3G4
S2
No
Perennial herb. Occurs on sandy soils in
dry washes and on rocky hillsides in
Mojavean desert scrub and Sonoran Desert
scrub habitats. Found at elevations ranging
from 0 to 1,525 feet amsl. Blooming
period is October to March.
Not Expected: The utility field
parcels do not provide suitable
habitat for this species.
p
Ditaxis serrata
var. californica
California ditaxis
3.2
G5T3T4
S2?
No
Perennial herb. Occurs on sandy washes
and alluvial fans of the foothills and lower
desert slopes in Sonoran Desert scrub
habitat at elevations ranging from 100 to
3,280 feet amsl. Blooming period is March
through December.
Not Expected: The utility field
parcels do not provide suitable
habitat for this species.
Eriastrum
harwoodii
Harwood's
eriastrum
1B.2
G2
S2
No
Annual herb. Found in desert dune
habitats. Occurs at elevations ranging from
410 to 3,000 feet amsl. Blooming period is
from March to June.
Not Expected: The utility field
parcels are located outside of the
known elevation range for this
species and do not provide
suitable habitat for this species.
Funastrum
crispum
wavyleaf twinvine
2B.2
G4
S1
No
Perennial herb. Grows within chaparral
and pinyon and juniper woodland. Found
at elevations ranging from 3,820 to 6,035
feet amsl. Blooming period is May
through August.
Not Expected: The utility field
parcels are located outside of the
known elevation range for this
species and do not provide
suitable habitat for this species.
Horsfordia alata
pink velvet-
mallow
4.3
G5
S4
No
Perennial shrub. Grows on rocky soils
within Sonoran Desert scrub. Found at
elevations ranging from 330 to 1,640 feet
amsl. Blooming period is February
through December.
Not Expected: The utility field
parcels are located outside of the
known elevation range for this
species and do not provide
suitable habitat for this species.
Horsfordia
newberryi
Newberry's
velvet -mallow
4.3
G5
S4
No
Perennial shrub. Grows on rocky soils
within Sonoran Desert scrub. Found at
elevations ranging from 10 to 2,625 feet
amsl. Blooming period is February
through December.
Not Expected: The utility field
parcels do not provide suitable
habitat for this species.
Scientific Name
Common Name
Special-
Status
Rank*
CVMSHCP
Covered
Species
Habitat Preferences and
Distribution Affinities
Potential to Occur
Jaffueliobryum
raui
Rau's
jaffueliobryum
moss
2B.3
G4
S2
No
Moss. Occurs on carbonate dry, openings,
and rock crevices within alpine dwarf
scrub, chaparral, Mojavean Desert scrub,
and Sonoran Desert scrub habitat. Found
at elevations found from 1,610 to 6,890
feet amsl.
Not Expected: The utility field
parcels are located outside of the
known elevation range for this
species and do not provide
suitable habitat for this species.
Johnstonella
costata
ribbed cryptantha
4.3
G4G5
S4
No
Annual herb. Grows on sandy soils within
desert dunes in Mojavean Desert scrub,
and Sonoran Desert scrub habitats. Found
at elevations ranging from -195 to 1,640
feet amsl. Blooming period is February
through May.
Not Expected: The utility field
parcels do not provide suitable
habitat for this species.
Johnstonella
holoptera
winged cryptantha
4.3
G4G5
S4
No
Annual herb. Found in Mojavean desert
scrub and Sonoran Desert scrub habitats.
Grows in elevations ranging from 330 to
5,545 feet amsl. Blooming period is March
through April.
Not Expected: The utility field
parcels are located outside of the
known elevation range for this
species and do not provide
suitable habitat for this species.
Juncus acutus
ssp. leopoldii
southwestern
spiny rush
4.2
G5T5
S4
No
Perennial rhizomatous herb. Occurs within
coastal dunes (mesic), meadows and seeps
(alkaline seeps), and marshes and swamps
(coastal salt). Found at elevations ranging
from 10 to 2,955 feet amsl. Blooming
period is (March) May through June.
Not Expected: The utility field
parcels do not provide suitable
habitat for this species.
Leptosiphon
floribundus ssp.
hallii
Santa Rosa
Mountains
leptosiphon
1B.3
G4T1T2
S1S2
No
Perennial herb. Occurs within pinyon and
juniper woodland and Sonoran Desert
scrub habitat. Found at elevations ranging
from 3,280 to 6,560 feet amsl. Blooming
period is May through July (November).
Not Expected: The utility field
parcels are located outside of the
known elevation range for this
species and do not provide
suitable habitat for this species.
Marina orcuttii
var. orcuttii
California marina
1B.3
G2G3T1T2
S2?
No
Perennial herb. Occurs on rocky soils
within chaparral, pinyon and juniper
woodland, and Sonoran Desert scrub
habitats. Found at elevations ranging from
3,445 to 3,805 feet amsl. Blooming period
is May through October.
Not Expected: The utility field
parcels are located outside of the
known elevation range for this
species and do not provide
suitable habitat for this species.
Matelea
parvifolia
spear -leaf matelea
2B.3
G5
S3
No
Perennial herb. Occurs on rocky soils
within Mojavean desert scrub and Sonoran
Desert scrub habitats. Found at elevations
ranging from 1,445 to 3,595 feet amsl.
Blooming period is March through May
(July).
Not Expected: The utility field
parcels are located outside of the
known elevation range for this
species and do not provide
suitable habitat for this species.
Mirabilis
tenuiloba
slender -lobed four
o'clock
4.3
G5
S4
No
Perennial herb. Occurs within Sonoran
Desert scrub habitat. Found at elevations
ranging from 755 to 3,595 feet amsl.
Bloomingeriod is (February)March
p
through May.
Not Expected: The utility field
parcels are located outside of the
known elevation range for this
species and do not provide
suitable habitat for this species.
Scientific Name
Common Name
Special-
Status
Rank*
CVMSHCP
Covered
Species
Habitat Preferences and
Distribution Affinities
Potential to Occur
Nemacaulis
denudata var.
gracilisS2
slender
cottonheads
2B.2
G3G4T3?
No
Annual herb. Occurs in coastal dunes,
desert dunes, and Sonoran Desert scrub
habitats. Found at elevations ranging from
-165 to 1,310 feet amsl. Blooming period
is (March) April through May.
Not Expected: The utility field parcels do
not provide suitable habitat for this
species.
Phaseolus
filiformis
slender -stem bean
2B.1
G5
S1
No
Annual herb. Occurs within Sonoran
Desert scrub habitat. Found at elevations
ranging from at or around 410 feet amsl.
Blooms during the month of April.
Not Expected: The utility field parcels do
not provide suitable habitat for this
species.
Pseudorontium
cyathiferum
Deep Canyon
snapdragon
2B.3
G4G5
S1
No
Annual herb. Grows on rocky soils within
Sonoran Desert scrub habitat. Found at
elevations ranging from 0 to 2,625 feet
amsl. Blooming period is February
through April.
Not Expected: The utility field parcels do
not provide suitable habitat for this
species.
Selaginella
eremophila
desert spike -moss
2B.2
S2S3
G4
No
Perennial rhizomatous herb. Found in
chaparral and Sonoran Desert scrub
habitats on gravelly or rocky soils. Found
at elevations ranging from 655 to 4,250
feet amsl. Blooming month is (May) June
(July).
Not Expected: The utility field parcels are
located outside of the known elevation
range for this species and do not provide
suitable habitat for this species.
Senna covesii
Cove's cassia
2B.2
G5
S3
No
Perennial herb. Found on dry, sandy desert
washes and slopes within Sonoran Desert
scrub habitat. Found at elevations ranging
from 740 to 4,250 feet amsl. Blooming
period is from March to June (August).
Not Expected: The utility field parcels are
located outside of the known elevation
range for this species and do not provide
suitable habitat for this species.
Stemodia
durantifolia
purple stemodia
2B. 1
G5
S2
No
Perennial herb. Occurs on sandy soils and
mesic sites within Sonoran Desert scrub.
Found at elevations ranging from 591 to
984 feet amsl. Blooming period is from
(January) April to December.
Not Expected: The utility field parcels are
located outside of the known elevation
range for this species and do not provide
suitable habitat for this species.
SPECIAL -STATUS WILDLIFE SPECIES
Athene
cunicularia
burrowing owl
SSC
G4
S3
Yes
Yearlong resident of Califomia. Primarily
a grassland species, but it persists and even
thrives in some landscapes highly altered
by human activity. Occurs in open, annual
or perennial grasslands, deserts, and
scrublands characterized by low -growing
vegetation. Also known to occur in along
flood control channels, disturbed lots, and
other lands devoid of vegetation. The
overriding characteristics of suitable
habitat appear to be the presence of
suitable burrows for roosting and nesting
in areas with relatively short vegetation
with only sparse shrubs and limited taller
vegetation.
Low: The utility field parcels may provide
potentially suitable habitat for this species;
however, no records of this species from
the past 50 years occurs within 5 miles of
the utility parcel sites.
Scientific Name
Common Name
Special-
Status
Rank*
CVMSHCP
Covered
Species
Habitat Preferences and
Distribution Affinities
Potential to Occur
Batrachoseps
major aridus
desert slender
salamander
FE
SE
G4T1
S1
No
Known only from Hidden Palm Canyon
(2,800 feet amsl) and Guadalupe Creek on
the eastern slope of the Santa Rosa
Mountains in Riverside County. Inhabits
year-round seeps and moist cliffs with
limestone sheets, rocks, and talus, shaded
by California fan palms and willow trees.
Not Expected: The utility field parcels do
not provide suitable habitat for this
species.
Buteo regalis
ferruginous hawk
WL
G4
S3S4
No
Common winter resident of grassland
habitats and agricultural areas in
southwestern California. Frequents open
grasslands, sagebrush flats, desert scrub,
low foothills surrounding valleys, and
fringes of pinyon juniper habitats. This
species does not breed in California.
Not Expected: The utility field parcels do
not provide suitable habitat for this
species. Additionally, this species does not
nest in California and only occurs during
the winter.
Chaetodipus
fallax pallidus
pallid San Diego
pocket mouse
SSC
G5T3T4
S3S4
No
Common resident of sandy herbaceous
areas, usually in association with rocks or
course gravel in southwestern California.
Occurs mainly in arid coastal and desert
border areas in eastem San Diego County.
Habitats include coastal scrub, chamise-
redshank chaparral, mixed chaparral,
sagebrush, desert wash, desert scrub,
desert succulent shrub, pinyon-juniper,
and annual grassland.
Not Expected: The utility field parcels do
not provide suitable habitat for this species
and no records of this species exist within
5 miles of the utility field parcels.
Crotalus ruber
red-diamond
rattlesnake
SSC
G4
S3
No
Found in southwestem California, from
the Morongo Valley west to the coast and
south along the peninsular ranges to mid
Baja California. It can be found from the
desert, through dense chaparral in the
foothills (it avoids the mountains above
around 4,000 feet amsl), to warm inland
mesas and valleys, all the way to the cool
ocean shore. It is most commonly
associated with heavy brush with large
rocks or boulders. Dense chaparral in the
foothills, boulders associated coastal sage
scrub, oak/pine woodlands, and desert
slope scrub associations; however,
chamise and red shank associations may
offer better structural habitat for refuges
and food resources for this species than
other habitats.
Not Expected: The utility field parcels do
not provide suitable habitat for this
species.
Scientific Name
Common Name
Special-
Status
Rank*
CVMSHCP
Covered
Species
Habitat Preferences and
Distribution Affinities
Potential to Occur
Cyprinodon
macularius
desert pupfish
FE
SE
G1
SI
Yes
Historically occurred in several springs,
seeps, and slow-moving streams in the
Salton Sink Basin, as well as in backwaters
and sloughs along the lower Colorado
River. Currently, natural populations of
desert pupfish occur in the Salton Sea and
nearby shoreline pools, freshwater ponds,
and irrigation drains, as well as in portions
of creeks/washes that are tributary to the
Salton Sea. The desert pupfish tolerates an
extreme range of environmental
conditions: salinities ranging from
freshwater to 68-90 parts per thousand,
water temperatures as high as 108 °F and
as low as 40 °F.
Not Expected: The utility field parcels do
not provide suitable habitat for this
species.
Dinacoma caseyi
Casey's June
beetle
FE
G1
SI
No
Only two known populations in a small
area of southem Palm Springs. Found in
sandy soils within desert wash and
Mojavean desert scrub habitat; the females
live underground and only come to the
ground surface to mate.
Not Expected: The utility field parcels do
not provide suitable habitat for this
species.
Empidonax
traillii extimus
southwestern
willow flycatcher
FE
SE
G5T2
S1
Yes
Uncommon summer resident in southem
Califomia primarily found in lower
elevation riparian habitats occurring along
streams or in meadows. The structure of
suitable breeding habitat typically consists
of a dense mid -story and understory and
can also include a dense canopy. Nest sites
are generally located near surface water or
saturated soils. The presence of surface
water, swampy conditions, standing or
flowing water under the riparian canopy
are preferred.
Not Expected: The utility field parcels do
not provide suitable habitat for this
species.
Eumopsperotis
californicus
western mastiff
bat
SSC
G4G5T4
S3 S4
No
Primarily a cliff -dwelling species, roost
generally under exfoliating rock slabs.
Roosts are generally high above the
ground, usually allowing a clear vertical
drop of at least 10 feet below the entrances
for flight, in crevices in cliff faces, high
buildings, trees, and tunnels. In
Califomia, it is most frequently
encountered in broad open areas. Its
foraging habitat includes dry desert
washes, flood plains, chaparral, oak
woodland, open ponderosa pine forest,
grassland, and agricultural areas.
Low: The utility field parcels provides
marginal foraging habitat for this species.
However, suitable roosting habitat is not
present and there are no recent occurrence
records within five miles of the utility field
parcels.
Scientific Name
Common Name
Special-
Status
Rank*
CVMSHCP
Covered
Species
Habitat Preferences and
Distribution Affinities
Potential to Occur
Falco mexicanus
prairie falcon
WL
G5
S4
No
The prairie falcon is associated primarily
with perennial grasslands, savannahs,
rangeland, some agricultural fields during
the winter season, and desert scrub areas,
all typically dry environments of western
North American where there are cliffs or
bluffs for nest sites. The species requires
sheltered cliff ledges for cover and nesting
which may range in height from low rock
outcrops of 30 feet to vertical, 400 feet
high (or more) cliffs and typically
overlook some treeless country for
hunting. Open terrain is used for foraging.
Moderate: The utility field parcels
provide suitable foraging habitat for this
species; however, there is no suitable
nesting habitat within the utility field
parcels.
Gopherus
agassizii
desert tortoise
FT
ST
G3
S2S3
Yes
Can be found in a wide variety of habitats,
such as alluvial fans, desert washes,
canyons, and saltbush plains; most
tortoises in the Mojave Desert are usually
associated with creosote bush scrub on
alluvial fans and bajadas. Wildflowers,
grasses, and in some cases, cacti make up
the bulk of their diet. Some of the more
common forbs consumed by the tortoise
include desert dandelion, primrose, gilia,
desert plantain, milkvetches, desert
marigold, Mojave lupine, phacelia, desert
wishbone bush, forget-me-knots, lotus,
goldfields, California coreopsis, white-
margin sandmat, and the introduced red
stemmed filaree.
Not Expected: The utility field parcels
provide little suitable habitat for this
species, there are no occurrence records
within five miles, and the utility field
parcels are not connected to any known
populations.
Lanius
ludovicianus
loggerhead shrike
SSC
G4
S4
No
Yearlong resident of California. Prefers
open habitats with bare ground, scattered
shrubs, and areas with low or sparse
herbaceous cover including open-
canopied valley foothill hardwood,
riparian, pinyon juniper desert riparian,
creosote bush scrub, and Joshua tree
woodland. Requires suitable perches
including trees, posts, fences, utility lines,
or other perches. Nests in branches up to
14 feet above the ground frequently in a
shrub with thorns or with tangled
branching habitats.
Low: The utility field parcels provide
marginally suitable habitat for this species,
and it was observed during field surveys
conducted by Michael Baker of the
Travertine Development project site in
2022.
Lasiurus
xanthinus
westem yellow bat
SSC
G4G5
S3
Yes
Uncommon in California, known only in
Los Angeles and San Bernardino
Counties. Occurs in valley foothill
riparian, desert riparian, desert wash, and
palm oasis habitats. Prefers to roost and
feed in, and near, palm oases and riparian
habitats. Commonly found in the
southwestern U.S. roosting in the skirt of
dead fronds in both native and non-native
palm trees.
Low: The utility field parcels provide
marginal foraging habitat for this species.
However, suitable roosting habitat is not
present and there are no recent occurrence
records within five miles of the utility field
parcels.
Scientific Name
Common Name
Special-
Status
Rank*
CVMSHCP
Covered
Species
Habitat Preferences and
Distribution Affinities
Potential to Occur
Nyctinomops
femorosaccus
pocketed free-
tailed bat
SSC
S3S4
S3
No
Often found in pinyon juniper woodlands,
desert scrub, desert succulent shrub, desert
riparian, desert wash, alkali desert scrub,
Joshua tree woodland, and palm oasis
habitats. The species roosts primarily in
crevices of rugged cliffs, high rocky
outcrops, and slopes. May also roost in
buildings, caves, and under roof tiles.
Low: The utility field parcels provide
marginal foraging habitat for this species.
However, suitable roosting habitat is not
present and there are no recent occurrence
records within five miles of the utility field
parcels.
Ovis canadensis
nelsoni pop. 2
Peninsular
bighorn sheep
DPS
FE
ST
FP
G4T3Q
32
Yes
Eastern slopes of the Peninsular Ranges
below 4,600 feet asml. This DPS of the
subspecies inhabits the Peninsular Ranges
in southem California from the San Jacinto
Mountains south to the US -Mexico
International Border. Optimal habitat
includes steep walled canyons and ridges
bisected by rocky or sandy washes, with
available water. Alluvial fans and washes
in flatter terrain are also used for foraging
and water. Peninsular bighorn sheep in
particular avoid higher elevations that
support chaparral.
Not Expected: The utility field parcels do
not provide suitable habitat for this
species.
Perognathus
longimembris
bangsiS2
Palm Springs
pocket mouse
SSC
G5T2
Yes
Known from various vegetation
communities, including creosote scrub,
desert scrub, and grasslands, generally
occurring on loosely packed or sandy soils
with sparse to moderately dense vegetative
cover. No longer occur on the valley floor
from Palm Springs to the Salton Sea in
areas developed for urban and agricultural
land uses.
Not Expected: There is no suitable habitat
within the utility field parcels and there are
no occurrence records for this species
within five miles of the utility field
parcels.
Phrynosoma
mcallii
flat -tailed horned
lizard
SSC
G3
S2
Yes
Restricted to desert washes and desert flats
in desert dunes, Mojavean desert scrub,
and Sonoran Desert scrub. Critical habitat
element is fine sand with high density of
harvester ants and fine windblown sand,
but do not normally occur in habitats
characterized as marshes and tamarisk-
arrowweed thickets, or agricultural and
developed areas.
Not Expected: The utility field parcels do
not provide suitable habitat for this
species.
Polioptila
melanura
black -tailed
gnatcatcher
WL
G5
S3S4
No
In Mojave, Great Basin, Colorado and
Sonoran Desert communities, prefers
nesting and foraging in densely lined
arroyos and washes dominated by creosote
bush and saltbush, with scattered bursage,
ocotillo, saguaro, barrel cactus, prickly
pear cactus, and cholla.
Not Expected: The utility field parcels do
not provide suitable habitat for this
species.
Pyrocephalus
rubinus
vermilion
flycatcher
SSC
G5
S2S3
No
Occurs in a variety of open habitats
including open woodland, clearings,
desert scrub, savannah, agricultural land,
golf courses, and recreationalparks. The
species tends to stay near water, often
occurring in riparian vegetation
characterized by Fremont cottonwoods,
mesquite, willows, and California
sycamores.
Low: The utility field parcels provide
marginal foraging habitat for this species.
However, suitable nesting habitat is not
present and there are no recent occurrence
records within five miles of the utility field
parcels.
Scientific Name
Common Name
Special-
Status
Rank*
CVMSHCP
Covered
Species
Habitat Preferences and
Distribution Affinities
Potential to Occur
Rallus obsoletus
[=longirostris]
yumanensis
Yuma Ridgways
(clapper) Rail
FE
Yes
Consistently found in freshwater marshes
that are composed of bulrush and cattail
with an average height greater than 6 feet
tall.
Not Expected: The utility field parcels do
not provide suitable habitat for this
species.
Taxidea taxus
American badger
SSC
G5
S3
No
Occupies a wide variety of habitats
including dry, open grassland, sagebrush,
and woodland habitats. Require dry,
friable, often sandy soil to dig burrows for
cover, food storage, and giving birth.
Occasionally found in riparian zones and
open chaparral with less than 50% plant
cover.
Low: The utility field parcels provide
marginal habitat for this species; however,
there are no known records of this species
within 5 miles of the utility field parcels.
Toxostoma
crissale
Crissal thrasher
SSC
G5
S3
Yes
Common yearlong resident in southern
Califomia. Occupies and habitats
including desert washes, riparian brush,
and mesquite thickets at lower elevations
and dense scrub in arroyos at higher
elevations. Nests in dense vegetation along
streams/washes dominated by mesquite,
screwbean mesquite, ironwood, catclaw,
acacia, arrowweed, willow.
Not Expected: The utility field parcels do
not provide suitable habitat for this
species.
Toxostoma
lecontei
Le Conte's
thrasher
SSC
G4
S3
Yes
Common yearlong resident in southern
California. Primarily occurs in open desert
wash, desert scrub, alkali desert scrub, and
desert succulent shrub habitats; also
occurs in Joshua tree habitat with scattered
shrubs. Habitats with a high proportion of
one or more species of saltbush and/or
cylindrical cholla cactus is preferred. The
ground is generally bare or with sparse
patches of grasses and annuals forming
low ground cover. Commonly nests in a
dense, spiny shrub or densely branched
cactus in desert wash habitat, usually 2 to
8 feet above ground.
Low: The utility field parcels provide
marginal foraging habitat for this species;
however, suitable nesting habitat is not
present and there are no recent occurrence
records within five miles of the utility field
parcels.
Uma inornata
Coachella Valley
fringe -toed lizard
FT
SE
GiQ
Si
Yes
Sparsely vegetated arid areas with fine
wind-blown sand, including dunes,
washes, alkali scrub, and flats with sandy
hummocks formed around the bases of
vegetation. Requires fine, loose, wind-
blown sand for burrowing.
Not Expected: The utility field parcels do
not provide suitable habitat for this
species.
Scientific Name
Common Name
Special-
Status
Rank*
CVMSHCP
Covered
Species
Habitat Preferences and
Distribution Affinities
Potential to Occur
Vireo bellii
pusillus
least Bell's vireo
FE
SE
SSC
G5T2
S2
Yes
Summer resident in southern California.
Breeding habitat generally consists of
dense, low, shrubby vegetation in riparian
areas, and mesquite brushlands, often near
water in arid regions. Early successional
cottonwood -willow riparian groves are
preferred for nesting. The most critical
structural component of nesting habitat in
Califomia is a dense shrub layer that is 2
to 10 feet above ground. The presence of
water, including ponded surface water or
moist soil conditions, may also be a key
component for nesting habitat.
Not Expected: The utility field parcels do
not provide suitable habitat for this
species.
Xerospermophilus
tereticaudus
chlorus
Palm Springs
round -tailed
ground squirrel
SSC
G5T2Q
S2
Yes
Prefers open, flat, grassy areas in fine-
textured, sandy soil. Habitats include
mesquite- and creosote -dominated sand
dunes, creosote bush scrub, creosote -
paloverde, and saltbush/alkali scrub.
Substrates include wind-blown sand,
coarse sand, and packed silt with desert
pavement.
SENSITIVE VEGETATION COMMUNITIES
CNDDB/Holland
G3
S3.2
N/A
Found at elevations ranging from 328 to
2,952 feet amsl in desert springs in canyon
waterways or along fault lines where
underground water is continuously
available. The USFWS Wetland Inventory
(1996 national list) recognizes
Washingtonia filifera as a FACW plant.
Washintonia filifera is dominant or co-
dominant in the tree canopy with white
alder (Alnus rhombifolia), Arizona ash
(Fraxinus velutina), Califomia sycamore,
Fremont cottonwood, honey mesquite
(Prosopis glandulosa), screwbean
mesquite (Prosopis pubescens), narrow
leaved willow (Salix exigua), Goodding's
black willow (Salix gooddingii), and
arroyo willow (Salix lasiolepis). Trees are
less than 98 feet tall; canopy is open to
continuous. Shrubs include saltbush,
willow baccharis (Baccharis salicina),
brittlebush (Encelia farinose), arrowweed,
bush seepweed (Suaeda nigra) or tamarix.
Herbaceous layer is open to continuous.
Absent: This vegetation community does
not occur within the utility field parcels.
(1986)
Desert Fan Palm
Oasis Woodland
MCV (1995)
Fan Palm Series
NVCS (2009)
Washingtonia
filifera seasonally
flooded woodland
alliance
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS)
FE Endangered — any species which is in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its range.
FT Threatened — any species which is likely to become an endangered species within the foreseeable future throughout all or a
significant portion of its range.
California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW)
SE Endangered – any native species or subspecies of bird, mammal, fish, amphibian, reptile, or plant which is in serious danger
of becoming extinct throughout all, or a significant portion, of its range due to one or more causes, including loss of habitat,
change in habitat, overexploitation, predation, competition, or disease.
ST Threatened – any native species or subspecies of bird, mammal, fish, amphibian, reptile, or plant that, although not presently
threatened with extinction, is likely to become an endangered species in the foreseeable future in the absence of the special
protection and management efforts required under the California Endangered Species Act.
FP Fully Protected – any native species or subspecies of bird, mammal, fish, amphibian, or reptile that were determined by the
State of California to be rare or face possible extinction.
SSC Species of Special Concern – any species, subspecies, or distinct population of fish, amphibian, reptile, bird, or mammal
native to California that currently satisfies one or more of the following criteria:
is extirpated from California or, in the case of birds, in its primary seasonal or breeding role;
is listed as Federally-, but not State-, threatened or endangered; meets the State definition of threatened or
endangered but has not formally been listed.
is experiencing, or formerly experienced, serious (noncyclical) population declines or range retractions (not
reversed) that, if continued or resumed, could qualify it for State threatened or endangered status; or
has naturally small populations exhibiting high susceptibility to risk from any factor(s), that if realized, could
lead to declines that would qualify it for State threatened or endangered status.
WL Watch List - taxa that were previously designated as "Species of Special Concem" but no longer merit that status, or which
do not yet meet SSC criteria, but for which there is concern and a need for additional information to clarify status.
California Native Plant Society (CNPS) California Rare Plant Rank
1B Plants rare, threatened, or endangered in California and elsewhere.
2B Plants rare, threatened, or endangered in California but more common elsewhere.
3 Plants about which more information is needed – Review List.
4 Plants of limited distribution – Watch List.
Threat Ranks
.1 Seriously threatened in Califomia (over 80% of occurrences threatened/high degree any immediacy of threat).
.2 Moderately threatened in California (20 to 80 percent of occurrences threatened/moderate degree and
immediacy of threat).
.3 Not very threatened in California (less than 20 percent of occurrences threatened/low degree and immediacy
of threat or no current threats known).
NatureServe Conservation Status Rank
The Global Rank (G#) reflects the overall condition and imperilment of a species throughout its global range. The Infraspecific Taxon Rank
(T#) reflects the global situation of just the subspecies or variety. The State Rank (S#) reflects the condition and imperilment of an element
throughout its range within Califomia. (G#Q) reflects that the element is very rare but there are taxonomic questions associated with it; the
calculated G rank is qualified by adding a Q after the G#). Adding a ? to a rank expresses uncertainty about the rank.
Gl/T1 Critically Imperiled – At very high risk of extinction due to extreme rarity (often 5 or fewer populations), very steep declines,
or other factors.
G2/T2 Imperiled— At high risk of extinction due to very restricted range, very few populations (often 20 or fewer), steep declines,
or other factors.
G3/T3 Vulnerable— At moderate risk of extinction due to a restricted range, relatively few populations (often 80 or fewer), recent
and widespread declines, or other factors.
G4/T4 Apparently Secure— Uncommon but not rare; some cause for long-term concern due to declines or other factors.
G5/T5 Secure – Common; widespread and abundant.
S1 Critically Imperiled – Critically imperiled in the state because of extreme rarity (often 5 or fewer occurrences) or because of
some factor(s) such as very steep declines making it especially vulnerable to extirpation from the State.
S2 Imperiled – Imperiled in the State because of rarity due to very restricted range, very few populations (often 20 or fewer),
steep declines, or other factors making it very vulnerable to extirpation from the nation or State.
S3 Vulnerable – Vulnerable in the State due to a restricted range, relatively few populations (often 80 or fewer), recent and
widespread declines, or other factors making it vulnerable to extirpation.
S4 Apparently Secure – Uncommon but not rare; some cause for long-term concern due to declines or other factors.
Coachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan
Yes — Fully Covered.
No — Not Covered.